A scuffle broke out during practice today for the Nashville Predators as the team's struggles push them to their breaking point. Predators forwards Luke Evangelista and Michael McCarron got in each others faces today during practice, garnering lots of attention from NHL fans and reporters alike. Apparently, Evangelista did not take kindly to a hit McCarron made on him during practice moments earlier. He responded by shoving the veteran, leading to teammates stepping in. Predators beat writer Alex Daugherty was in the building for the practice. He caught part of the scuffle on video and shared it so we could see it for ourselves. After the main practice ended, head coach Andrew Burnette addressed the incident calling it 'boys being boys' and 'old time hockey.' The Predators are dead last in the NHL this year, despite major offseason acquisitions including Steven Stamkos. The team has won just three of their last ten games and things do not seem to be getting any better. Most recently, the team was shutout by the Seattle Kraken in a 3-0 road loss. Clearly, things have not gone the way the Predators were expecting so far this year. With American Thanksgiving just around the corner, their odds of making the playoffs have plummeted and continue to drop. Hopefully this incident will spark a fire under the team as they look to salvage the season. That being said, it would have to go on a run similar to the 2019 St. louis Blues in order to make the playoffs. Can it be done? Sure. Is it likely? Probably not. This article first appeared on Blade of Steel and was syndicated with permission.The Brooklyn Nets and Los Angeles Lakers agreed on a massive trade to send wing defender Dorian Finney-Smith and Shake Milton to Los Angeles. In exchange, the Nets land guard D'Angelo Russell, Maxwell Lewis, and three second-round draft picks. Read more: Lakers Land Dorian Finney-Smith and Shake Milton in Blockbuster Deal With Nets NBA insider Shams Charania of ESPN reported the news on social media. BREAKING: The Los Angeles Lakers have agreed on a trade sending D'Angelo Russell, Maxwell Lewis and three second-round picks to the Brooklyn Nets for Dorian Finney-Smith and Shake Milton, sources told ESPN. pic.twitter.com/V175zGtmKW Many will focus on the Lakers aspect of this trade but this is a very good deal for the Nets as well. Brooklyn has long been trying to trade Finney-Smith and his team-friendly contract made things easy here. Landing Russell again gives the Nets a true point guard to work with. However, it seems that he may not be on the team for long. According to NBA insider Brett Siegel of Clutch Points, Russell could become a buyout candidate after this deal. Brooklyn is in full tank mode and having Russell on the team could complicate those plans. Expect D'Angelo Russell to be a prime buyout candidate after being traded to the Nets. But for now, Russell returns to Brooklyn, a place where he made his only All-Star team in 2019. Russell fit in very well with the Nets at the time, helping the young squad get to the postseason. Russell was originally traded to the Nets by the Lakers ahead of the 2018-2019 season. It was the deal that sent the draft pick of Kyle Kuzma to Los Angeles. If Russell remains with the Nets, despite the buyout rumors, he could help his stock for his upcoming free agency. Russell is scheduled to enter the open market this offseason after picking up his player option with the Lakers last summer. Lewis could be a surprise addition to this deal for Brooklyn. The former second-round draft pick has shown some flashes of offensive brilliance and the Lakers were high on him at first. If he could develop into a piece for the Nets, this return for Finney-Smith and Milton could be even better than first thought. And the three second-round draft picks that the Lakers moved in the deal provide Brooklyn with more ammo going forward. All in all, this move seems like a win for both sides, which is rare for any trade. But the two organizations have been talking about a possible deal for years and they finally made it happen. More news: Kings Guard Sends Direct Message to Fans Following Mike Brown Dismissal For more on the Nets and the NBA at large, check out Newsweek Sports .ServisFirst ( NYSE: SFBS ) declares $0.335/share quarterly dividend , 11.7% increase from prior dividend of $0.300. Forward yield 1.42% Payable Jan. 10; for shareholders of record Jan. 2; ex-div Jan. 2. See SFBS Dividend Scorecard, Yield Chart, & Dividend Growth. More on ServisFirst Micron Technology, Nike Lead Companies That Report As Earnings Season Continues To Slow ServisFirst Bancshares, Inc. (SFBS) Q3 2024 Earnings Call Transcript ServisFirst Bancshares: Rosy Earnings Outlook Appears Priced-In ServisFirst Q3 2024 Earnings Preview Seeking Alpha’s Quant Rating on ServisFirst

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#5 TOP IA STORIES OF 2024: More Australian fibre connections but users stick to lower speedsSave 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 A sunny day, 29 degrees, a gentle north-westerly breeze: flying conditions were near perfect as Qantas flight 520 began rolling down the runway at Sydney Airport en route to Brisbane. This particular plane, a Boeing 737-800, had been delivered new to the national carrier in November 2005 and given the tail number VH-VYH. A dependable workhorse, it had scooted up and down Australia’s east coast, mostly, for 19 years without notable incident. On this day, November 8, 2024, the Boeing had already made three trips, the first a breakfast run out of Sydney just before 7am. It was now setting off for the return leg to Brisbane. QF520 left the gate around 12.15pm and taxied to its slot in the take-off line-up, from where it was given the go-ahead. Its pilots hit the gas and the engines bellowed. It soon reached 200km/h and passed what aviators call “V1”: the point at which a plane is travelling too quickly to safely abort take-off. Exactly what happened next is now in the hands of safety investigators. What we do know is that, as the 737 was still gathering speed down the runway, one of its two engines suddenly destroyed itself . It failed, spitting fragments of superheated metal out of its exhaust chute, which shot to the ground, sparking a grassfire that soon made TV news. Some 40 per cent of air travellers report some fear of flying. Yet air travel is by far the safest form of transport, we’re often told. It’s heavily regulated, constantly scrutinised and, in Australia, operated and overseen by thousands of highly trained and dedicated professionals. The statistics confirm it. Australia’s safety record for commercial travel is exemplary: no large jet has ever been lost here. Our oldest airline, Qantas, regularly tops world safety rankings . Yet incidents still happen. Planes bump into each other on the ground. Tyres burst. Turbulence flings people around. Why do things still go wrong, albeit occasionally? Who is responsible for keeping us safe in the air? And what happens when that rarest of event occurs: one of your two engines goes “pop”? The cockpit front windows of a 747 jet. Credit: Getty Images, digitally tinted Who keeps us safe in the air? Flores, a tropical island about an hour’s flight east of Bali, is best known for three things: clear-water scuba diving, komodo dragons that can weigh more than 100 kilograms, and volcanoes, some picturesque and dormant, others not so much. In early November, Lewotobi Laki-laki began erupting in earnest, endangering nearby villages and sending a plume of ash 10 kilometres into the air. Advertisement Some 4000 kilometres south, at the Qantas Integrated Operations Centre near Sydney Airport, concern began to build. Famously, all four engines on a British Airways 747 failed after passing through a sulphurous volcanic cloud high above Java in 1982; only after the crew had prepared to ditch in the ocean did the turbofans clear of debris and miraculously restart. Partly as a consequence, when the unpronounceable Icelandic volcano Eyjafjallajökull erupted in 2010, airspace was closed across Europe , which led to some 95,000 flights cancelled and millions of passengers stranded. As the Flores ash cloud drifted west towards Bali, the Qantas team declared the situation critical and began cancelling flights into Denpasar for both Qantas and its subsidiary Jetstar. On the day we visit the operations centre, the crisis management team is about to meet in its purpose-built war room to gauge when flights might be allowed to resume. “It’s about determining when it’s going to be safe for us to operate,” says Qantas’s head of safety, Mark Cameron, a former British Airways pilot who knew the 747 crew who survived the volcano in 1982. “Engines do not like breathing in volcanic ash.” Mark Cameron, Qantas’s head of safety, in the airline’s operations centre in Mascot, Sydney. Credit: Louise Kennerly, digitally tinted Hundreds of Qantas staff, meanwhile, seated in pods in a vast room at head office, are still scrambling to reschedule flights, alert and mollify annoyed passengers while also dealing with the normal workings of some 100 international and 300 domestic flights on a typical day. For what we’re told is an extraordinarily busy day, though, the atmosphere is hushed and calm: a giant jigsaw puzzle being completed then restarted as mini-crises are discovered and mitigated. Jetstar was doing the same at its operations centre in Melbourne. The business of air travel is mind-bogglingly complex. But so, too, are the systems underpinning it. They allow it to operate extremely safely, especially compared to any other form of transport. ‘You can’t eliminate risk in any part of your daily life, but our role is to manage the risk to a level at which we’re comfortable that everybody’s going to be safe.’ Back in 1944, as World War II saw a flurry of new airports being built, 54 nations including Australia sent delegates to Chicago for a convention that laid the groundwork for international air safety standards. They agreed to create an overarching authority, today called the International Civil Aviation Organization (ICAO), under the auspices of the United Nations to set world standards for airworthiness and maintenance, and airport and airline operations, among other areas. “The aviation industry has an incredibly good safety record,” says Ron Bartsch, an aviation safety expert and founder of Avlaw aviation consulting. “The main reason for that is it’s so strictly and extensively regulated.” Advertisement For 2023, ICAO reported the accident rate (such as incidents involving death, injury, aircraft damaged or missing) for commercial aircraft was 1.87 accidents per million departures. To break this down: of 35,250,759 departures, there were 66 accidents, all but one of them non-fatal, the exception a twin-engine propeller aircraft operated by Yeti Airlines that crashed while coming into land at Pokhara in the Himalayas, killing 72 people on board. The Australian Civil Aviation Safety Authority (CASA) regulates the ongoing airworthiness of aircraft by ensuring airlines adhere to safety standards and a strict maintenance program.Regular maintenance is based on the number of hours the aircraft has flown, or how much time has passed since the last check – different parts require different “periodicity” for being serviced. Engineers could do anything from checking fluids after every flight to replacing wheelpads after a few flights to inspecting or replacing any one of thousands of parts after a specified time. “What it allows us to do,” says Qantas’s Mark Cameron, “is to be really proactive in how we’re managing risk – because, effectively, that’s what airlines do, we manage risk. We can’t eliminate it because you can’t eliminate risk in any part of your daily life, but our role is to manage the risk to a level at which we’re comfortable that everybody’s going to be safe.” This image from Flightradar in October shows flights routed out of airspace over Iran when Tehran launched missile attacks on Israel. Credit: FlightRadar24.com At Qantas HQ, various teams plan virtually every aspect of each flight: checking the weather; working out the best route (from several options if flying overseas, including avoiding volcanic eruptions or geopolitical hazards such as closed airspace in the Middle East, which Qantas has been navigating since early August); making sure cargo is loaded correctly so the plane is balanced; identifying dangerous goods on board; and screening for troublesome passengers on the banned “no fly” list ... and on it goes. With all that in place, the pilots run pre-flight checks, going over the weather briefing, for example, and any notes on potential dangers. The airline tells pilots how much fuel they need, but the pilot can choose to take more, depending on the possibility of a weather diversion or other delays. The pilot physically walks around the aircraft on the ground to triple-check there are no obvious faults. An engineer will have already signed a certificate of release to service – a legal declaration that the aircraft is fit to fly – before every international flight and at least daily for domestic flights, which the pilot clocks, along with a log of maintenance, before they accept the aircraft for flight. Air-traffic controller Alexander Palmer in the tower at Melbourne Airport. Credit: Airservices Australia, digitally tinted Advertisement The pilot’s next contact is with air-traffic controllers, who clear planes for departure according to strict rules that determine “how many aircraft we can have taking off and landing at any one time,” says Airservices Australia’s Michelle Petersen, who is responsible for the towers at all of Australia’s major airports. Controllers also factor in “wake turbulence”, the disruption to the air that a plane leaves in its wake; there needs to be a gap of three minutes between an A380 taking off and a Boeing 737 following it, for example. All over the world, controllers and pilots speak English and use regulated unambiguous terms: “Qantas one, runway 19 left, cleared for take-off.” Pilots always repeat back the message. “There cannot be any assumptions in the air and we embed safety in everything we do,” says Petersen. The most deadly air disaster in history, which killed 583 people in Tenerife in the Canary Islands in 1977, was blamed, at least in part, on a communication breakdown: two 747s collided on the runway in heavy fog after one tried to take off following a command from air-traffic control that pilots mistook to be an all-clear to depart. The wreckage of a jet after a catastrophic collision with another jet on the runway in Tenerife in 1977. Credit: Getty Images How did plane safety develop? In the Ancient Greek fable, Icarus was warned by a fledgling aviation regulator (his dad) not to swoop too close to the sea lest his wings, fashioned from feathers and wax, become waterlogged; nor should he fly too close to the sun in case the wax melted. In other words, the operational envelope of his equipment was well understood and his fate (a fatal wax-feather-decoupling incident) was quite rightly chalked up to pilot error. Next came 747 ‘jumbos’ – some famously featuring a spiral staircase to an upstairs lounge bar. Today, aviators talk of jet planes in generations. “Generation one” had panels of dials and gauges and rudimentary autopilots, if any. Think: cars with no airbags or anti-lock braking and possibly alarming handling characteristics, such as the world’s first commercial jet airliner, BOAC’s de Havilland Comet. One, flying from Singapore to London via Bangkok, Rangoon, Calcutta, Karachi, Bahrain, Beirut and Rome in 1954 disintegrated midair, as did two of its sister planes, thanks to structural issues; 23 other Comets, out of 114 in total including prototypes, were lost due to pilot error, design faults and other mishaps. Advertisement Next came the beginnings of truly modern jets, including the pretty reliable 747 “jumbos” – some famously featuring a spiral staircase to an upstairs lounge bar – and the first of the Boeing 737s, launched in 1968 and still one of the most-operated airliners today. These had better automatic systems but could still make you think twice about getting on board: the McDonnell Douglas DC-10, in particular, gained a terrible reputation in the 1970s thanks to engine failures and a series of hijackings. A “generation one” jet, a 1949 prototype of the de Havilland Comet turbojet airliner, built in Hertfordshire in Britain. Credit: Getty Images, digitally tinted “Generation three” planes saw the introduction of technology such as “terrain avoidance systems”, leading to a rapid reduction in losses that continues today in “generation four” planes, which can “see” all around themselves to take evasive action if something nearby is judged to be on a collision course. Airbus tells us its latest safety systems use real-time data to avoid runway excursions and reduce the risk of landing incidents (“in case the aircraft is too fast, too high or lands too long, an alert will be triggered to advise the crew to perform a go-around or use the maximum reverse and brakes”). Martinis and beer in the first-class upper deck lounge in a Qantas Boeing 747 in 1971. Credit: Courtesy Qantas, digitally tinted Says Qantas’s Mark Cameron: “If you look at the accident rates throughout that period of time, you just see them plummet across the generations.” Last year was the first to record zero fatalities from commercial jet crashes, despite there being more than 29,000 in service worldwide, according to Boeing’s statistical summary that dates back to 1959. (This excludes turboprop, or propeller, passenger planes such as those operated by Yeti Airlines in Nepal and the ATR-72-500 that crashed over Brazil in August 2024 after stalling and entering a flat spin.) The age of a plane, meanwhile, says little about how well-maintained it is. “Don’t get confused with cosmetic looks,” says David Evans, a former Qantas pilot of 35 years. “If you walk into an aircraft that looks a bit shabby, the carpet might be a bit threadbare, that has no relationship to its airworthiness.” An example of “generation four”, a Qantas Dreamliner in 2018. Credit: Qantas, digitally tinted Advertisement “Generation four” planes have a huge number of backups, or redundancies. Those with two engines, such as Boeing 737s, can fly on one. They have multiple alternative power sources. “The A380 had about six different backup systems for wheel brakes. If you’re running out of brakes, you’re having a really bad day,” says Evans. “All of these things have been based around previous incidents ... over the 100-odd years of aviation. There are risks every time you go flying, but we mitigate them by ... checklists, briefings, plan A, B and C. You’re trying to eliminate surprise.” There are also at least two pilots on a flight deck at all times, one free to monitor the autopilot while the other scrutinises variables such as fuel consumption and weather. Having said this, airlines and regulators from more than 40 countries have pushed ICAO to help make single-pilot flights safe; the European Union Aviation Safety Agency says such services could start in 2027. Ron Bartsch doesn’t back such a change. “You need someone who can take the place of the pilot if they have a heart attack or something.” Evans has written in this masthead before that it is an alarming idea, noting that pilots are “the last line of defence”. Boeing 737 Max planes parked in Seattle in 2020 after 20 months of grounding following two deadly crashes. Credit: Getty Images, digitally tinted What happened with the ‘Max’ planes? Once in a while, a defect can slip through what the industry calls the “Swiss cheese” safety model. Visualise a packet of Swiss cheese slices, each with holes in different places. For an error to creep through, a hole would have to line up in every slice of cheese. Boeing’s new-ish 737 Max aircraft was delivered to airlines with a fatal flaw: a problem that had managed to pass through every slice of cheese. First, a system that prevented the planes from stalling malfunctioned: perceiving that the planes were climbing too steeply when they were not, it automatically, and repeatedly, forced down the nose. This could, potentially, have been overridden by pilots, had they been trained to recognise the problem – but they had not. As a result, two Max 8 737s crashed – one in Indonesia in October 2018, another in Ethiopia in March 2019 – with the loss of a total of 346 lives. ‘Boeing is still paying the price for the damage to their brand. It’s got a fair way before it regains industry trust.’ It later emerged that Boe­ing had cut corners by updat­ing its now decades-old 737s to the longer, more powerful Max rather than build­ing an entirely new air­craft from scratch, in order to match its chief competitor, the Air­bus A320neo. Max variants were grounded worldwide between March 2019 and December 2020 while investigators determined the cause of the fatal disasters. The groundings, lawsuits and compensation, U S Senate investigations subcommittee hearings and cancelled orders kept Boeing’s safety record in the spotlight and have cost the company about $100 billion. Boeing supplied historical safety data for this Explainer but declined an invitation to speak on the record. Bartsch says the 737 Max troubles have been “a classic example of companies trying to cut costs” ahead of safety. “Boeing is still paying the price for the damage to their brand. It’s got a fair way before it regains industry trust.” Boeing was again in the spotlight earlier this year for its 737 Max aircraft when a Max 9 explosively decompressed above Portland, Oregon after it lost a fuselage panel called a “door plug” that, it turned out, had bolts missing in its installation. Although extremely alarming, there were no serious injuries. The hole left after a “door plug” blew out midair on an Alaska Airlines flight in a Boeing 737 over Oregon in the United States in January. Credit: US National Transportation Safety Board, digitally tinted In Australia, CASA has now certified the Max 8 as safe to operate. Virgin, which currently operates eight 737 Max 8 aircraft, requires its pilots to undergo additional training to understand the differences between the new aircraft and previous iterations of the 737. In addition, Boeing has modified the problematic system, called MCAS, so it cannot override a pilot’s ability to control the airplane. “Virgin Australia is one of over 80 airlines operating Boeing 737 Max family aircraft globally,” says Virgin Australia chief operations officer, Stuart Aggs. “More than 1400 of these aircraft are in service around the world, carrying about 700,000 passengers on 5500 flights every day. Over the past 50 years, a journey of continuous improvement has made commercial aviation the world’s safest form of transportation. Virgin Australia retains full confidence in Boeing’s commitment to this journey.” For all the focus on beleaguered Boeing, Airbus has not been without incident: in September, a Rolls-Royce engine on a Cathay Pacific A350 caught fire and failed, forcing the plane to dump fuel then return to Hong Kong. After inspecting its entire fleet of A350 aircraft, Cathay found that 15 had faulty engine parts that needed to be replaced. A preliminary report into the September incident by Hong Kong’s safety body found a fuel hose had torn, according to Aviation Direct. “This led to a fuel leak, which in combination with oxygen and an ignition source (heat) triggered the fire.” Former pilot David Evans in a flight simulator. Credit: USQ/Anna Singleton, digitally tinted So, why do accidents still happen? When the right-side engine failed on Qantas flight 520 out of Sydney just seconds after the “V1′′ point of no return during take-off, the pilots knew they had no choice but to keep going and take off with just one power plant. Says David Evans: “V1 is carefully calculated for every takeoff. The only decision pilots have to make prior to V1 is to either stop or go. After V1 there is no decision, you are committed to go flying. Any attempt to stop after V1 will result in a runway overrun.” The Boeing had been designed for such an eventuality; to take off with just one engine. That did not mean, however, it was routine. Historically, many fatal crashes have occurred at or shortly after take-off, including the disaster in Paris in 2000 that eventually consigned the only supersonic airliner, Concorde, to the history books. ”We spend a fair amount of our career lifetime in simulators, preparing for worst-case scenarios,” says Doug Drury, a former commercial pilot who heads aviation at Central Queensland University. “It’s all about developing these critical skills, thinking, decision-making processes and having good situational awareness.” The Sydney incident was a scenario that pilots regularly simulate in training and their response was by the book, says Mark Cameron, who spoke with them afterwards. “They were saying they really appreciate the training they’d had.” Their take-off, after the engine had failed, was “low and slow” as the plane crept skywards, circled Sydney airport then landed safely. “Within 15 minutes of the landing, we had the data already available where we could actually see exactly how the crew had flown,” says Cameron. “It was really good in terms of how they controlled the aircraft, recognised the issues, the approach back into Sydney. It’s actually a really good news story for our pilots and systems.” Passengers who heard the engine go “bang” were alarmed but nobody was injured. Says David Evans: “An engine failure is horrendous from a passenger’s point of view, and even for the cabin crew, but for the pilots it’s a serious inconvenience more than anything. I don’t want to say it’s not a big deal, but it’s not something they haven’t seen many, many times and practised over and over.” ‘We don’t want the engines to fail. But the reality is, there’s always going to be a failure rate. It’s pretty small across the industry.’ So why did this engine give up the ghost? This model is generally very reliable, manufactured since 1997 by CFM International and used in thousands of Boeing and Airbus planes. CFM describes it as “simple and rugged” with a “dispatch reliability” (the rate at which a specific component is held responsible for aircraft delays, turn-backs, diversions, etc) of 99.96 per cent. Yet nothing is entirely foolproof. CFM engines have failed before, most notably on planes operated by Southwest Airlines in the United States where they shot debris into the fuselage. In 2018, a passenger died after reportedly being sucked out of a window punctured by debris. The US National Transportation Safety Board determined that one of the failed engine’s fan blades had broken off due to fatigue and fractured into fragments. It had likely harboured a tiny crack that had pre-dated a safety inspection, the authority said, “However, the crack was not detected for unknown reasons.” Loading “We don’t want the engines to fail,” says Cameron. “But the reality is, there’s always going to be a failure rate. It’s pretty small across the industry.” He adds: “An engine failure in itself doesn’t mean you’re going to have an accident because you’ve got trained crew, an aircraft that is certified to fly on one engine and numerous other controls in place.” Doug Drury notes: “Airlines don’t survive if they cut corners. Historically, yes, it’s happened, but in this day and age, post-pandemic, that’s the last thing any airline wants, is to get hit with this.” In 2010, David Evans was the supervising check captain on QF32, an Airbus A380, when it suffered an uncontained engine failure moments after take-off from Singapore’s Changi Airport en route to Sydney. “Sometimes a failure will have a cascading effect on other systems and QF32 is a good example of that: where an engine exposure created havoc with everything else,” Evans says. The Australian Transport Safety Bureau later found that an oil pipe in the failed Rolls-Royce engine had been manufactured to improper tolerances and had developed a crack due to fatigue, then it leaked oil that caused a fire, which caused a turbine disc to separate from the drive shaft and destroy the engine. The pilots famously landed the plane safely. “You’ll never get rid of risk,” says Evans. “The only thing you can do is mitigate against risk.” There were 58 uncon­tained (that is, explosive) engine fail­ures on West­ern-built air­craft between 1982 and 2008, according to the US authority the Fed­eral Avi­ation Admin­is­tra­tion – a scary-sounding number until you do the maths: roughly, around one occurrence per 10 million flights per year, or far less likely than being hit by lightning (one in a million). Some incidents are harder to mitigate than others. Orville Wright was probably the first aviator to hit a bird, in 1905. The most famous bird strike of all was caused by a flock of Canadian geese in 2009, which clogged the engines on an Airbus 320 departing New York and required its captain, Chesley Burnett “Sully” Sullenberger III (later played by Tom Hanks in the movie recreation ) to ditch on the Hudson River. Captain Chesley “Sully” Sullenberger, left, and first officer Jeffrey Skiles go through their pre-flight checks at LaGuardia airport in New York in 2009. Credit: Reuters, digitally tinted Turbulence, particularly where an aircraft drops suddenly in the absence of any obvious “weather” such as storm clouds – dubbed “clear-air turbulence” – regularly sees flight staff, in particular, injured. A Southwest attendant was scalded by hot coffee in March; a United staffer flung into the air with the drinks cart, then back to the floor, described it as “slamming down from a fifth-floor building”. In May, a passenger died of a suspected heart attack, and more than a hundred were injured, when a Singapore Airlines Boeing 777 suddenly fell nearly two kilometres over three minutes over Myanmar during the breakfast service, one passenger telling the BBC it was “just like going down a vertical rollercoaster”. ‘In an aeroplane, you’re getting all sorts of sensations which you can’t rationalise.’ The incident, while extreme, prompted a round of reminders of the benefits of fastening seatbelts, one of the few aspects of flying that passengers can control. For most “aviophobics”, says Corrie Ackland, clinical director of the Sydney Phobia Clinic, the fear “comes down to this idea that they don’t know what’s happening and they don’t know how to fix it – and those things play up for them”. Loading News reporting and TV shows put all manner of aviation incidents in the spotlight. “I’ve seen people and their fear is based around what they see on the telly – nothing to do with flying,” says Evans. He helped set up a “fear of flying” program that now partners with Ackland’s clinic where people sit with a pilot in a flight simulator. “In an aeroplane, you’re getting all sorts of sensations which you can’t rationalise,” Evans says. “And there might have been an incident that you were involved in, turbulence perhaps, and noises like the undercarriage retracting or the flaps extending or retracting, and the amygdala [the fight-or-flight centre of the brain] sets off that charge because you think there’s something afoot or something that’s dangerous. But it’s the normal operation of the aircraft.” A week after landing in Sydney, meanwhile, the Qantas Boeing 737 that suffered engine failure was back in the air. With a new powerplant, VH-VYH shuttled once again from Sydney to Brisbane to Sydney to Melbourne to Brisbane. The damaged engine would be scrutinised to determine what, exactly, had happened, and what remedies might be put in place to minimise the chances of it happening again. Our new Explainer anthology, Why Do People Queue for Brunch? The Explainer Guide To Modern Mysteries is available for pre-order and subscribers are being offered a 25 per cent discount (full price is $32.99) until December 12. See here for details . In bookstores December 3. Credit: Allen & Unwin Let us explain If you'd like some expert background on an issue or a news event, drop us a line at explainers@smh.com.au or explainers@theage.com.au . Read more explainers here .

BOZEMAN, Mont. (AP) — Adam Jones ran for 197 yards and two touchdowns and Montana State ran over Montana 34-11 on Saturday to reclaim the Brawl of the Wild trophy. The Bobcats (12-0, 8-0 Big Sky Conference) wrapped up the 123rd meeting in this rivalry with 420 yards, 326 on the ground. Montana State capped its first unbeaten season and can match the school record for consecutive wins with a playoff win in two weeks. The Bobcats, ranked second in the FCS coaches poll, should be the top seed in the playoffs after top-ranked North Dakota State lost its finale to fifth-ranked South Dakota. Montana (8-4, 5-3), ranked 10th, is expected to add to its record 27 FCS playoff appearances but will not have a first-round bye in the 24-team bracket. Montana State quarterback Tommy Mellott was 6-of-12 passing for 94 yards with a touchdown in poor conditions and added 50 yards and a touchdown on the ground. He has helped the Bobcats score at least 30 points in every game this season Mellott had a 5-yard touchdown run on MSU's first possession and Mellott found Jones for a 35-yard touchdown early in the second quarter for a 14-3 lead. Myles Sansted had two field goals in the final two minutes, including a 49-yarder as time expired for a 20-3 halftime lead. Jones dominated the second half and scored two short touchdowns. Eli Gillman scored on a 1-yard run for Montana's touchdown between the Jones' touchdowns. The Grizzlies had just 234 yards and went 2 of 12 on third down. AP college football: https://apnews.com/hub/ap-top-25-college-football-poll and https://apnews.com/hub/college-football . Sign up for the AP’s college football newsletter: https://apnews.com/cfbtop25Biden administration to loan $6.6B to EV maker Rivian to build Georgia factory that automaker paused

How co-writing a book threatened the Carters’ marriageSave articles for later Add articles to your saved list and come back to them any time. A sunny day, 29 degrees, a gentle north-westerly breeze: flying conditions were near perfect as Qantas flight 520 began rolling down the runway at Sydney Airport en route to Brisbane. This particular plane, a Boeing 737-800, had been delivered new to the national carrier in November 2005 and given the tail number VH-VYH. A dependable workhorse, it had scooted up and down Australia’s east coast, mostly, for 19 years without notable incident. On this day, November 8, 2024, the Boeing had already made three trips, the first a breakfast run out of Sydney just before 7am. It was now setting off for the return leg to Brisbane. QF520 left the gate around 12.15pm and taxied to its slot in the take-off line-up, from where it was given the go-ahead. Its pilots hit the gas and the engines bellowed. It soon reached 200km/h and passed what aviators call “V1”: the point at which a plane is travelling too quickly to safely abort take-off. Exactly what happened next is now in the hands of safety investigators. What we do know is that, as the 737 was still gathering speed down the runway, one of its two engines suddenly destroyed itself . It failed, spitting fragments of superheated metal out of its exhaust chute, which shot to the ground, sparking a grassfire that soon made TV news. Some 40 per cent of air travellers report some fear of flying. Yet air travel is by far the safest form of transport, we’re often told. It’s heavily regulated, constantly scrutinised and, in Australia, operated and overseen by thousands of highly trained and dedicated professionals. The statistics confirm it. Australia’s safety record for commercial travel is exemplary: no large jet has ever been lost here. Our oldest airline, Qantas, regularly tops world safety rankings . Yet incidents still happen. Planes bump into each other on the ground. Tyres burst. Turbulence flings people around. Why do things still go wrong, albeit occasionally? Who is responsible for keeping us safe in the air? And what happens when that rarest of event occurs: one of your two engines goes “pop”? The cockpit front windows of a 747 jet. Credit: Getty Images, digitally tinted Who keeps us safe in the air? Flores, a tropical island about an hour’s flight east of Bali, is best known for three things: clear-water scuba diving, komodo dragons that can weigh more than 100 kilograms, and volcanoes, some picturesque and dormant, others not so much. In early November, Lewotobi Laki-laki began erupting in earnest, endangering nearby villages and sending a plume of ash 10 kilometres into the air. Some 4000 kilometres south, at the Qantas Integrated Operations Centre near Sydney Airport, concern began to build. Famously, all four engines on a British Airways 747 failed after passing through a sulphurous volcanic cloud high above Java in 1982; only after the crew had prepared to ditch in the ocean did the turbofans clear of debris and miraculously restart. Partly as a consequence, when the unpronounceable Icelandic volcano Eyjafjallajökull erupted in 2010, airspace was closed across Europe , which led to some 95,000 flights cancelled and millions of passengers stranded. As the Flores ash cloud drifted west towards Bali, the Qantas team declared the situation critical and began cancelling flights into Denpasar for both Qantas and its subsidiary Jetstar. On the day we visit the operations centre, the crisis management team is about to meet in its purpose-built war room to gauge when flights might be allowed to resume. “It’s about determining when it’s going to be safe for us to operate,” says Qantas’s head of safety, Mark Cameron, a former British Airways pilot who knew the 747 crew who survived the volcano in 1982. “Engines do not like breathing in volcanic ash.” Mark Cameron, Qantas’s head of safety, in the airline’s operations centre in Mascot, Sydney. Credit: Louise Kennerly, digitally tinted Hundreds of Qantas staff, meanwhile, seated in pods in a vast room at head office, are still scrambling to reschedule flights, alert and mollify annoyed passengers while also dealing with the normal workings of some 100 international and 300 domestic flights on a typical day. For what we’re told is an extraordinarily busy day, though, the atmosphere is hushed and calm: a giant jigsaw puzzle being completed then restarted as mini-crises are discovered and mitigated. Jetstar was doing the same at its operations centre in Melbourne. The business of air travel is mind-bogglingly complex. But so, too, are the systems underpinning it. They allow it to operate extremely safely, especially compared to any other form of transport. ‘You can’t eliminate risk in any part of your daily life, but our role is to manage the risk to a level at which we’re comfortable that everybody’s going to be safe.’ Back in 1944, as World War II saw a flurry of new airports being built, 54 nations including Australia sent delegates to Chicago for a convention that laid the groundwork for international air safety standards. They agreed to create an overarching authority, today called the International Civil Aviation Organization (ICAO), under the auspices of the United Nations to set world standards for airworthiness and maintenance, and airport and airline operations, among other areas. “The aviation industry has an incredibly good safety record,” says Ron Bartsch, an aviation safety expert and founder of Avlaw aviation consulting. “The main reason for that is it’s so strictly and extensively regulated.” For 2023, ICAO reported the accident rate (such as incidents involving death, injury, aircraft damaged or missing) for commercial aircraft was 1.87 accidents per million departures. To break this down: of 35,250,759 departures, there were 66 accidents, all but one of them non-fatal, the exception a twin-engine propeller aircraft operated by Yeti Airlines that crashed while coming into land at Pokhara in the Himalayas, killing 72 people on board. The Australian Civil Aviation Safety Authority (CASA) regulates the ongoing airworthiness of aircraft by ensuring airlines adhere to safety standards and a strict maintenance program.Regular maintenance is based on the number of hours the aircraft has flown, or how much time has passed since the last check – different parts require different “periodicity” for being serviced. Engineers could do anything from checking fluids after every flight to replacing wheelpads after a few flights to inspecting or replacing any one of thousands of parts after a specified time. “What it allows us to do,” says Qantas’s Mark Cameron, “is to be really proactive in how we’re managing risk – because, effectively, that’s what airlines do, we manage risk. We can’t eliminate it because you can’t eliminate risk in any part of your daily life, but our role is to manage the risk to a level at which we’re comfortable that everybody’s going to be safe.” This image from Flightradar in October shows flights routed out of airspace over Iran when Tehran launched missile attacks on Israel. Credit: FlightRadar24.com At Qantas HQ, various teams plan virtually every aspect of each flight: checking the weather; working out the best route (from several options if flying overseas, including avoiding volcanic eruptions or geopolitical hazards such as closed airspace in the Middle East, which Qantas has been navigating since early August); making sure cargo is loaded correctly so the plane is balanced; identifying dangerous goods on board; and screening for troublesome passengers on the banned “no fly” list ... and on it goes. With all that in place, the pilots run pre-flight checks, going over the weather briefing, for example, and any notes on potential dangers. The airline tells pilots how much fuel they need, but the pilot can choose to take more, depending on the possibility of a weather diversion or other delays. The pilot physically walks around the aircraft on the ground to triple-check there are no obvious faults. An engineer will have already signed a certificate of release to service – a legal declaration that the aircraft is fit to fly – before every international flight and at least daily for domestic flights, which the pilot clocks, along with a log of maintenance, before they accept the aircraft for flight. Air-traffic controller Alexander Palmer in the tower at Melbourne Airport. Credit: Airservices Australia, digitally tinted The pilot’s next contact is with air-traffic controllers, who clear planes for departure according to strict rules that determine “how many aircraft we can have taking off and landing at any one time,” says Airservices Australia’s Michelle Petersen, who is responsible for the towers at all of Australia’s major airports. Controllers also factor in “wake turbulence”, the disruption to the air that a plane leaves in its wake; there needs to be a gap of three minutes between an A380 taking off and a Boeing 737 following it, for example. All over the world, controllers and pilots speak English and use regulated unambiguous terms: “Qantas one, runway 19 left, cleared for take-off.” Pilots always repeat back the message. “There cannot be any assumptions in the air and we embed safety in everything we do,” says Petersen. The most deadly air disaster in history, which killed 583 people in Tenerife in the Canary Islands in 1977, was blamed, at least in part, on a communication breakdown: two 747s collided on the runway in heavy fog after one tried to take off following a command from air-traffic control that pilots mistook to be an all-clear to depart. The wreckage of a jet after a catastrophic collision with another jet on the runway in Tenerife in 1977. Credit: Getty Images How did plane safety develop? In the Ancient Greek fable, Icarus was warned by a fledgling aviation regulator (his dad) not to swoop too close to the sea lest his wings, fashioned from feathers and wax, become waterlogged; nor should he fly too close to the sun in case the wax melted. In other words, the operational envelope of his equipment was well understood and his fate (a fatal wax-feather-decoupling incident) was quite rightly chalked up to pilot error. Next came 747 ‘jumbos’ – some famously featuring a spiral staircase to an upstairs lounge bar. Today, aviators talk of jet planes in generations. “Generation one” had panels of dials and gauges and rudimentary autopilots, if any. Think: cars with no airbags or anti-lock braking and possibly alarming handling characteristics, such as the world’s first commercial jet airliner, BOAC’s de Havilland Comet. One, flying from Singapore to London via Bangkok, Rangoon, Calcutta, Karachi, Bahrain, Beirut and Rome in 1954 disintegrated midair, as did two of its sister planes, thanks to structural issues; 23 other Comets, out of 114 in total including prototypes, were lost due to pilot error, design faults and other mishaps. Next came the beginnings of truly modern jets, including the pretty reliable 747 “jumbos” – some famously featuring a spiral staircase to an upstairs lounge bar – and the first of the Boeing 737s, launched in 1968 and still one of the most-operated airliners today. These had better automatic systems but could still make you think twice about getting on board: the McDonnell Douglas DC-10, in particular, gained a terrible reputation in the 1970s thanks to engine failures and a series of hijackings. A “generation one” jet, a 1949 prototype of the de Havilland Comet turbojet airliner, built in Hertfordshire in Britain. Credit: Getty Images, digitally tinted “Generation three” planes saw the introduction of technology such as “terrain avoidance systems”, leading to a rapid reduction in losses that continues today in “generation four” planes, which can “see” all around themselves to take evasive action if something nearby is judged to be on a collision course. Airbus tells us its latest safety systems use real-time data to avoid runway excursions and reduce the risk of landing incidents (“in case the aircraft is too fast, too high or lands too long, an alert will be triggered to advise the crew to perform a go-around or use the maximum reverse and brakes”). Martinis and beer in the first-class upper deck lounge in a Qantas Boeing 747 in 1971. Credit: Courtesy Qantas, digitally tinted Says Qantas’s Mark Cameron: “If you look at the accident rates throughout that period of time, you just see them plummet across the generations.” Last year was the first to record zero fatalities from commercial jet crashes, despite there being more than 29,000 in service worldwide, according to Boeing’s statistical summary that dates back to 1959. (This excludes turboprop, or propeller, passenger planes such as those operated by Yeti Airlines in Nepal and the ATR-72-500 that crashed over Brazil in August 2024 after stalling and entering a flat spin.) The age of a plane, meanwhile, says little about how well-maintained it is. “Don’t get confused with cosmetic looks,” says David Evans, a former Qantas pilot of 35 years. “If you walk into an aircraft that looks a bit shabby, the carpet might be a bit threadbare, that has no relationship to its airworthiness.” An example of “generation four”, a Qantas Dreamliner in 2018. Credit: Qantas, digitally tinted “Generation four” planes have a huge number of backups, or redundancies. Those with two engines, such as Boeing 737s, can fly on one. They have multiple alternative power sources. “The A380 had about six different backup systems for wheel brakes. If you’re running out of brakes, you’re having a really bad day,” says Evans. “All of these things have been based around previous incidents ... over the 100-odd years of aviation. There are risks every time you go flying, but we mitigate them by ... checklists, briefings, plan A, B and C. You’re trying to eliminate surprise.” There are also at least two pilots on a flight deck at all times, one free to monitor the autopilot while the other scrutinises variables such as fuel consumption and weather. Having said this, airlines and regulators from more than 40 countries have pushed ICAO to help make single-pilot flights safe; the European Union Aviation Safety Agency says such services could start in 2027. Ron Bartsch doesn’t back such a change. “You need someone who can take the place of the pilot if they have a heart attack or something.” Evans has written in this masthead before that it is an alarming idea, noting that pilots are “the last line of defence”. Boeing 737 Max planes parked in Seattle in 2020 after 20 months of grounding following two deadly crashes. Credit: Getty Images, digitally tinted What happened with the ‘Max’ planes? Once in a while, a defect can slip through what the industry calls the “Swiss cheese” safety model. Visualise a packet of Swiss cheese slices, each with holes in different places. For an error to creep through, a hole would have to line up in every slice of cheese. Boeing’s new-ish 737 Max aircraft was delivered to airlines with a fatal flaw: a problem that had managed to pass through every slice of cheese. First, a system that prevented the planes from stalling malfunctioned: perceiving that the planes were climbing too steeply when they were not, it automatically, and repeatedly, forced down the nose. This could, potentially, have been overridden by pilots, had they been trained to recognise the problem – but they had not. As a result, two Max 8 737s crashed – one in Indonesia in October 2018, another in Ethiopia in March 2019 – with the loss of a total of 346 lives. ‘Boeing is still paying the price for the damage to their brand. It’s got a fair way before it regains industry trust.’ It later emerged that Boe­ing had cut corners by updat­ing its now decades-old 737s to the longer, more powerful Max rather than build­ing an entirely new air­craft from scratch, in order to match its chief competitor, the Air­bus A320neo. Max variants were grounded worldwide between March 2019 and December 2020 while investigators determined the cause of the fatal disasters. The groundings, lawsuits and compensation, U S Senate investigations subcommittee hearings and cancelled orders kept Boeing’s safety record in the spotlight and have cost the company about $100 billion. Boeing supplied historical safety data for this Explainer but declined an invitation to speak on the record. Bartsch says the 737 Max troubles have been “a classic example of companies trying to cut costs” ahead of safety. “Boeing is still paying the price for the damage to their brand. It’s got a fair way before it regains industry trust.” Boeing was again in the spotlight earlier this year for its 737 Max aircraft when a Max 9 explosively decompressed above Portland, Oregon after it lost a fuselage panel called a “door plug” that, it turned out, had bolts missing in its installation. Although extremely alarming, there were no serious injuries. The hole left after a “door plug” blew out midair on an Alaska Airlines flight in a Boeing 737 over Oregon in the United States in January. Credit: US National Transportation Safety Board, digitally tinted In Australia, CASA has now certified the Max 8 as safe to operate. Virgin, which currently operates eight 737 Max 8 aircraft, requires its pilots to undergo additional training to understand the differences between the new aircraft and previous iterations of the 737. In addition, Boeing has modified the problematic system, called MCAS, so it cannot override a pilot’s ability to control the airplane. “Virgin Australia is one of over 80 airlines operating Boeing 737 Max family aircraft globally,” says Virgin Australia chief operations officer, Stuart Aggs. “More than 1400 of these aircraft are in service around the world, carrying about 700,000 passengers on 5500 flights every day. Over the past 50 years, a journey of continuous improvement has made commercial aviation the world’s safest form of transportation. Virgin Australia retains full confidence in Boeing’s commitment to this journey.” For all the focus on beleaguered Boeing, Airbus has not been without incident: in September, a Rolls-Royce engine on a Cathay Pacific A350 caught fire and failed, forcing the plane to dump fuel then return to Hong Kong. After inspecting its entire fleet of A350 aircraft, Cathay found that 15 had faulty engine parts that needed to be replaced. A preliminary report into the September incident by Hong Kong’s safety body found a fuel hose had torn, according to Aviation Direct. “This led to a fuel leak, which in combination with oxygen and an ignition source (heat) triggered the fire.” Former pilot David Evans in a flight simulator. Credit: USQ/Anna Singleton, digitally tinted So, why do accidents still happen? When the right-side engine failed on Qantas flight 520 out of Sydney just seconds after the “V1′′ point of no return during take-off, the pilots knew they had no choice but to keep going and take off with just one power plant. Says David Evans: “V1 is carefully calculated for every takeoff. The only decision pilots have to make prior to V1 is to either stop or go. After V1 there is no decision, you are committed to go flying. Any attempt to stop after V1 will result in a runway overrun.” The Boeing had been designed for such an eventuality; to take off with just one engine. That did not mean, however, it was routine. Historically, many fatal crashes have occurred at or shortly after take-off, including the disaster in Paris in 2000 that eventually consigned the only supersonic airliner, Concorde, to the history books. ”We spend a fair amount of our career lifetime in simulators, preparing for worst-case scenarios,” says Doug Drury, a former commercial pilot who heads aviation at Central Queensland University. “It’s all about developing these critical skills, thinking, decision-making processes and having good situational awareness.” The Sydney incident was a scenario that pilots regularly simulate in training and their response was by the book, says Mark Cameron, who spoke with them afterwards. “They were saying they really appreciate the training they’d had.” Their take-off, after the engine had failed, was “low and slow” as the plane crept skywards, circled Sydney airport then landed safely. “Within 15 minutes of the landing, we had the data already available where we could actually see exactly how the crew had flown,” says Cameron. “It was really good in terms of how they controlled the aircraft, recognised the issues, the approach back into Sydney. It’s actually a really good news story for our pilots and systems.” Passengers who heard the engine go “bang” were alarmed but nobody was injured. Says David Evans: “An engine failure is horrendous from a passenger’s point of view, and even for the cabin crew, but for the pilots it’s a serious inconvenience more than anything. I don’t want to say it’s not a big deal, but it’s not something they haven’t seen many, many times and practised over and over.” ‘We don’t want the engines to fail. But the reality is, there’s always going to be a failure rate. It’s pretty small across the industry.’ So why did this engine give up the ghost? This model is generally very reliable, manufactured since 1997 by CFM International and used in thousands of Boeing and Airbus planes. CFM describes it as “simple and rugged” with a “dispatch reliability” (the rate at which a specific component is held responsible for aircraft delays, turn-backs, diversions, etc) of 99.96 per cent. Yet nothing is entirely foolproof. CFM engines have failed before, most notably on planes operated by Southwest Airlines in the United States where they shot debris into the fuselage. In 2018, a passenger died after reportedly being sucked out of a window punctured by debris. The US National Transportation Safety Board determined that one of the failed engine’s fan blades had broken off due to fatigue and fractured into fragments. It had likely harboured a tiny crack that had pre-dated a safety inspection, the authority said, “However, the crack was not detected for unknown reasons.” “We don’t want the engines to fail,” says Cameron. “But the reality is, there’s always going to be a failure rate. It’s pretty small across the industry.” He adds: “An engine failure in itself doesn’t mean you’re going to have an accident because you’ve got trained crew, an aircraft that is certified to fly on one engine and numerous other controls in place.” Doug Drury notes: “Airlines don’t survive if they cut corners. Historically, yes, it’s happened, but in this day and age, post-pandemic, that’s the last thing any airline wants, is to get hit with this.” In 2010, David Evans was the supervising check captain on QF32, an Airbus A380, when it suffered an uncontained engine failure moments after take-off from Singapore’s Changi Airport en route to Sydney. “Sometimes a failure will have a cascading effect on other systems and QF32 is a good example of that: where an engine exposure created havoc with everything else,” Evans says. The Australian Transport Safety Bureau later found that an oil pipe in the failed Rolls-Royce engine had been manufactured to improper tolerances and had developed a crack due to fatigue, then it leaked oil that caused a fire, which caused a turbine disc to separate from the drive shaft and destroy the engine. The pilots famously landed the plane safely. “You’ll never get rid of risk,” says Evans. “The only thing you can do is mitigate against risk.” There were 58 uncon­tained (that is, explosive) engine fail­ures on West­ern-built air­craft between 1982 and 2008, according to the US authority the Fed­eral Avi­ation Admin­is­tra­tion – a scary-sounding number until you do the maths: roughly, around one occurrence per 10 million flights per year, or far less likely than being hit by lightning (one in a million). Some incidents are harder to mitigate than others. Orville Wright was probably the first aviator to hit a bird, in 1905. The most famous bird strike of all was caused by a flock of Canadian geese in 2009, which clogged the engines on an Airbus 320 departing New York and required its captain, Chesley Burnett “Sully” Sullenberger III (later played by Tom Hanks in the movie recreation ) to ditch on the Hudson River. Captain Chesley “Sully” Sullenberger, left, and first officer Jeffrey Skiles go through their pre-flight checks at LaGuardia airport in New York in 2009. Credit: Reuters, digitally tinted Turbulence, particularly where an aircraft drops suddenly in the absence of any obvious “weather” such as storm clouds – dubbed “clear-air turbulence” – regularly sees flight staff, in particular, injured. A Southwest attendant was scalded by hot coffee in March; a United staffer flung into the air with the drinks cart, then back to the floor, described it as “slamming down from a fifth-floor building”. In May, a passenger died of a suspected heart attack, and more than a hundred were injured, when a Singapore Airlines Boeing 777 suddenly fell nearly two kilometres over three minutes over Myanmar during the breakfast service, one passenger telling the BBC it was “just like going down a vertical rollercoaster”. ‘In an aeroplane, you’re getting all sorts of sensations which you can’t rationalise.’ The incident, while extreme, prompted a round of reminders of the benefits of fastening seatbelts, one of the few aspects of flying that passengers can control. For most “aviophobics”, says Corrie Ackland, clinical director of the Sydney Phobia Clinic, the fear “comes down to this idea that they don’t know what’s happening and they don’t know how to fix it – and those things play up for them”. News reporting and TV shows put all manner of aviation incidents in the spotlight. “I’ve seen people and their fear is based around what they see on the telly – nothing to do with flying,” says Evans. He helped set up a “fear of flying” program that now partners with Ackland’s clinic where people sit with a pilot in a flight simulator. “In an aeroplane, you’re getting all sorts of sensations which you can’t rationalise,” Evans says. “And there might have been an incident that you were involved in, turbulence perhaps, and noises like the undercarriage retracting or the flaps extending or retracting, and the amygdala [the fight-or-flight centre of the brain] sets off that charge because you think there’s something afoot or something that’s dangerous. But it’s the normal operation of the aircraft.” A week after landing in Sydney, meanwhile, the Qantas Boeing 737 that suffered engine failure was back in the air. With a new powerplant, VH-VYH shuttled once again from Sydney to Brisbane to Sydney to Melbourne to Brisbane. The damaged engine would be scrutinised to determine what, exactly, had happened, and what remedies might be put in place to minimise the chances of it happening again. Our new Explainer anthology, Why Do People Queue for Brunch? The Explainer Guide To Modern Mysteries is available for pre-order and subscribers are being offered a 25 per cent discount (full price is $32.99) until December 12. See here for details . In bookstores December 3. Credit: Allen & Unwin

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The NBA fined the Atlanta Hawks $100,000 for holding Trae Young out of a game earlier this month. Young missed an NBA Cup matchup against the Boston Celtics on Nov. 12. The Hawks ruled out the All-Star guard due to a right Achilles tendinitis injury. It was the second of a back-to-back and Atlanta's fourth game in six days. The league doesn't believe Young had a legitimate injury. Per ESPN's Shams Charania , the NBA fined the Hawks $100,000 for violating its player participation policy. "NBA says its investigation -- including review by an independent physician -- determined that the Hawks held Young out of a game that he could have played in," Charania wrote on social media. Despite missing their All-Star guard, the Hawks pulled off a 117-116 upset at TD Garden behind 28 points from Dyson Daniels. Jalen Johnson posted a triple-double with 18 points, 12 rebounds, and 10 assists, and Larry Nance Jr. scored 19 points off the bench. Young has played every other game this season for the Hawks, who are currently tied with the Chicago Bulls for the Eastern Conference's final play-in spot at 7-11. The 26-year-old is averaging 21.9 points and league-high 11.9 assists per game in his seventh season. The NBA implemented the player participation policy before the 2023-24 season to deter load management. The rules state that teams "must ensure that star players are available for national TV and In-Season Tournament games." Along with beating the Celtics, the Hawks defeated the Washington Wizards in NBA Cup action. However, they fell 136-122 to the Bulls on Friday despite Young registering 25 points and 13 assists. Atlanta can advance to the knockout round by defeating the other Group C powerhouse. The Hawks play their final group game on Friday against the 17-1 Cleveland Cavaliers, who suffered their only loss in an NBA Cup game against Boston last week. Related: NBA Announces $100,000 Fine For Hornets Star LaMelo Ball

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Trump wants pardoned real estate developer Charles Kushner to be ambassador to FranceMiami Dolphins linebacker Bradley Chubb will not be activated Wednesday when his 21-day window to return concludes, coach Mike McDaniel said Tuesday. The decision means Chubb will miss the entire 2024 season after trying to recover from a devastating knee injury he sustained in a game against the Baltimore Ravens on Dec. 31, 2023. Chubb tore the ACL, meniscus and patellar tendon in his right knee with 3:10 left in a game Miami lost 56-19. He began this season on the physically unable to perform list. McDaniel said Chubb agreed with the decision. The Dolphins (7-8) face long odds of claiming an AFC playoff berth with two games to go. "He had been very patient in the process, very open-minded and had growth as the process went," McDaniel said. "But ultimately, we all decided that we didn't think he would be able to be the player that he expects -- that we all expect. Just needed a little bit more time that, unfortunately, the season couldn't offer us. "So he's still all in it, and he was disappointed, but he also understands the big picture at stake and is going to make sure that when he's on the field for the Dolphins, that everyone feels the player that he knows he is." Chubb is expected to be ready for offseason workouts. Chubb had a big season in 2023 with 74 tackles, 11 sacks and tying for the NFL lead with six forced fumbles. He recovered two fumbles in 16 games. Chubb, 28, has 39.5 career sacks in 73 games (72 starts) with the Dolphins and Denver Broncos. Denver selected Chubb No. 5 overall in the 2018 draft and traded him to Miami at the trade deadline of the 2022 season. A force when healthy, Chubb sustained a season-ending torn left ACL in the fourth game of the 2019 season and missed 10 games in 2021 with an ankle injury. --Field Level MediaTo the editor, Everyone has the right to vote for who they think would be best for our country. In this year's election, people on both sides were particularly passionate about their choice and their reasons, and it's hard when it doesn't turn out the way we wanted. ADVERTISEMENT But personally, I think it would be better to sit down and have a conversation with people who don't share our political views, rather than passing judgment on them or trying to shame them for their choice while claiming moral superiority, as Clara Jurivich did in her Nov. 23 letter. We can definitely do better than that. Colleen Stinar East Grand ForksIn conclusion, the surge in second-hand housing transactions in the Beijing property market reflects a combination of factors, including strong demand, stable prices, urban renewal projects, and infrastructure developments. This trend has created opportunities for both buyers and sellers to engage in active transactions, explore diverse housing options, and capitalize on the vibrant real estate market. As the market continues to evolve and adapt to changing conditions, stakeholders in the Beijing property market should stay informed, proactive, and strategic in navigating the complexities of buying and selling second-hand homes.

In conclusion, the unprecedented mention of a "loose" policy stance after 14 years signals a major shift in China's economic policy attitude, with far-reaching implications for the country's economic trajectory. As policymakers navigate the complexities of balancing growth and stability in the current environment, all eyes will be on how this new approach unfolds and its impact on the broader economy.For Mr. Smith, this means taking a step back and trusting that he has equipped Emily with the skills and judgment to navigate the complexities of adolescence. By gradually letting go of his need for control and allowing Emily the space to make her own choices, he can empower her to develop independence, resilience, and a strong sense of self.

In a shocking turn of events, the once highly respected 707 Special Forces Team of South Korea has found itself at the center of ridicule and mockery after a series of embarrassing incidents have tarnished their reputation. The team's captain, whose identity remains undisclosed, could not hide his emotions as he addressed the public in a press conference, expressing his deep disappointment and regret over the recent turn of events.As temperatures plummet and icy winds howl across the region, several areas are bracing for a potentially severe winter storm. Weather forecasters have issued blizzard warnings for a number of locations, where heavy snowfall, strong winds, and dangerously low temperatures are expected to create hazardous conditions. Residents are being urged to prepare for the impending storm and to take precautions to ensure their safety.NEWPORT NEWS, Va., Nov. 21, 2024 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) -- HII's (NYSE: HII) Newport News Shipbuilding division was recently recognized with the 2024 Governor's Volunteerism & Community Service Award by Virginia Gov. Glenn Youngkin. HII is the largest industrial employer in the commonwealth. NNS received the corporation award in the annual program coordinated by Serve Virginia and the Virginia Service Foundation, acknowledging Virginians who volunteer to make a difference in their communities. "We are honored to be recognized by Governor Youngkin for the work our shipbuilders do to make our community stronger,” said Xavier Beale, NNS vice president of human resources and trades administration. "Shipbuilding is a noble calling, and we're proud that their commitment to building the world's best ships carries over into their efforts to give selflessly of their time and talents.” Photos accompanying this release are available at: https://hii.com/news/hiis-newport-news-shipbuilding-division-recognized-with-2024-virginia-governors-volunteerism-and-community-service-award/ . NNS shipbuilders contribute thousands of hours of service annually to their local communities through volunteer activities, both those coordinated by the shipyard and independently. Examples of such efforts include hosting American Red Cross blood drives, collecting food and volunteering at the Virginia Peninsula Foodbank, and supporting Habitat for Humanity Peninsula and Greater Williamsburg. Since 2002, NNS volunteers have helped build 21 homes for Habitat for Humanity, with work on a 22 nd well underway . NNS also plays a vital role in preparing underserved students for college and the workforce by offering a range of programs designed to enhance academic and career readiness. Through STEM mentoring programs like Girls with Engineering Minds in Shipbuilding (GEMS) and Young Men Engineers (YEM), NNS shipbuilders volunteer to engage with students, providing guidance and inspiration in science, technology, engineering and math fields at the middle school level. On-site job experiences and career awareness programs further expose students, especially high school students, to real-world maritime careers, offering invaluable insights into roles in ship design, engineering, and manufacturing. Programs such as Scouts, which embed NNS employees in local career and technical education (CTE) programs throughout the school year, help connect what students are learning in the classroom to industry. About HII HII is a global, all-domain defense provider. HII's mission is to deliver the world's most powerful ships and all-domain solutions in service of the nation, creating the advantage for our customers to protect peace and freedom around the world. As the nation's largest military shipbuilder, and with a more than 135-year history of advancing U.S. national security, HII delivers critical capabilities extending from ships to unmanned systems, cyber, ISR, AI/ML and synthetic training. Headquartered in Virginia, HII's workforce is 44,000 strong. For more information, visit: Todd Corillo [email protected] (757) 688-3220 A photo accompanying this announcement is available at https://www.globenewswire.com/NewsRoom/AttachmentNg/232896ec-4f21-41da-8538-d8d74babd37d

Princeton to offer classes on erotic dance, sex work, and ‘queer spaces’

It is imperative that pet owners remain vigilant and informed about the quality and safety of the pet food products they choose for their beloved animals. The well-being and health of our furry companions depend on the responsible choices we make as consumers, and it is incumbent upon us to demand transparency and accountability from pet food manufacturers.The Open Day of Gardenia International High School and the Strategic Cooperation Press Conference with Weir Data School from the United States were successfully heldAdam McKay warns 'radical' Wicked could be banned by politicians in '3 to 5 years'The popularity of these bathhouses has spurred a new trend in Northeast China - the rise of the "bathhouse tourism." Visitors from all corners of the country flock to these establishments to experience the lavish bathing culture and indulge in a day of pampering and relaxation. As a result, the once-empty lobbies are now overflowing with suitcases and bags as travelers come prepared to spend a day or even a weekend immersing themselves in the opulence of Northeast China's bathhouses.

Haiti gang attack on journalists covering a hospital reopening leaves 2 dead, several wounded

But behind the elderly man's comical antics and flair for adventure, there was a deeper story waiting to be discovered. Those who took the time to strike up a conversation with him were greeted with tales of a life well-lived, of hardships endured and triumphs celebrated. He spoke of a time when the world was simpler, when people took the time to stop and appreciate the small moments that made life worth living.US approves Florida plan to use carcinogen radioactive waste in road constructionFormer officials urge closed-door Senate hearings on Tulsi Gabbard, Trump's pick for intel chief

Rita Ora joins forces with string of A-listers to celebrate Universal Declaration of Human Rights

One of the key drivers behind the rise in oil prices is the escalating tensions in the Middle East, particularly in the Persian Gulf region. Recent attacks on oil tankers and infrastructure in the region have heightened concerns about potential supply disruptions and increased the risk premium on crude oil. These geopolitical uncertainties have caused investors to flock to oil as a safe-haven asset, pushing prices higher.

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Jennison Associates LLC Purchases Shares of 7,761 Commvault Systems, Inc. (NASDAQ:CVLT)

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Editorial Roundup: United States

CAPE CORAL, Fla. , Dec. 19, 2024 /PRNewswire/ -- Lennar, one of the nation's leading homebuilders, is proud to announce the grand opening of its newest model homes in Cape Coral, FL. The public is invited to tour stunning new model homes and discover the innovative design and quality construction that is a standard in every Lennar home. "We are pleased to introduce our newest model homes in Cape Coral , offering beautifully crafted residences without the constraints of HOA fees," said Dave Meyers , Lennar's Division Manager for Southwest Florida . "Lennar is committed to providing high-quality, move-in-ready homes that combine our signature style with the freedom and affordability that today's buyers desire. We invite prospective homeowners to explore this new community and experience the Lennar difference firsthand." The new homes in Cape Coral offer Lennar's renowned style and quality, with an emphasis on spacious layouts, contemporary finishes, and energy-efficient features—all thoughtfully included to meet the needs of today's homebuyers through the company's Everything's Included® approach. Each home is designed with functionality and comfort in mind, offering seven unique floorplans to suit different lifestyles and family sizes. Prices range from the low $300 ,000s up to $1 million for estates homes situated on the water with many options in between. Home offerings include Patio, Executive and Estate Homes with three or four bedrooms and two or three baths across 1,487 to 2,650 square feet. Situated off Burnt Store Rd South near Pine Island Rd and Matlacha , these homes are ideally located with easy access to local amenities and attractions. Cape Coral is home to over 400 miles of canals, featuring access to fresh water or the desirable Gulf Coast to offer the best of Southwest Florida living. Kayak, sail, canoe, swim, hike and trek through a truly rich ecosystem. Discover world-class dining, shopping and entertainment in this coastal city or in nearby Downtown Fort Myers . The combination of quality, affordability, and the absence of HOA fees makes these homes a compelling choice in the Cape Coral market. For more information, please visit www.lennar.com/new-homes/florida/naples-ft-myers/cape-coral/new-homes-in-cape-coral or call 239-207-3051. About Lennar Corporation Lennar Corporation, founded in 1954, is one of the nation's leading builders of quality homes for all generations. Lennar builds affordable, move-up and active adult homes primarily under the Lennar brand name. Lennar's Financial Services segment provides mortgage financing, title and closing services primarily for buyers of Lennar's homes and, through LMF Commercial, originates mortgage loans secured primarily by commercial real estate properties throughout the United States. Lennar's Multifamily segment is a nationwide developer of high-quality multifamily rental properties. LENX drives Lennar's technology, innovation and strategic investments. For more information about Lennar, please visit www.lennar.com . Contact: Danielle Tocco Vice President Communications Lennar Corporation Danielle.Tocco@Lennar.com Direct Line: 949.789.1633 View original content to download multimedia: https://www.prnewswire.com/news-releases/lennar-debuts-new-model-homes-in-cape-coral-fl-with-no-hoa-fees-302336543.html SOURCE Lennar Corporation © 2024 Benzinga.com. Benzinga does not provide investment advice. All rights reserved.

The Apple Vision Pro Is Apparently Getting PlayStation VR2 Controller Support - Press Start AustraliaMantis scores 17 points off the bench as Maine downs Holy Cross 80-55

Hannaford Charitable Foundation presents a check for $30,000 at the Trinity Jubilee Center. From left are Jessica Lapointe, Hannaford assistant store manager, Lewiston; Alex Smith, Hannaford store manager, Lewiston; Erin Reed, Trinity Jubilee Center executive director; Megan Dubois, Hannaford assistant store manager, Auburn; and Dan Paul, Hannaford store manager, Auburn. Submitted photo LEWISTON — The Trinity Jubilee Center has received a $30,000 donation from the Hannaford Charitable Foundation to support the construction of the center’s new home. Trinity Jubilee Center staff member Cassandra Culleton supervises a team of Hannaford volunteers who are plating lunches in the Soup Kitchen. From left are Culleton; Dan Paul, Hannaford store manager, Auburn; Alex Smith, Hannaford store manager, Lewiston; and Jessica Lapointe, Hannaford assistant store manager, Lewiston. Submitted photo The center, the social services hub of the Lewiston community, provides vital services to residents facing economic hardship, including food assistance, shelter, employment support and medical care. The new location opens at 123 Bates St. in 2025. With the construction of the new facility, the center will be able to expand its services to help those experiencing homelessness, hunger and other challenges, according to a news release from Erin Reed with the center. The donation will be used to purchase and install a new walk-in refrigerator to store food for the center’s soup kitchen and food pantry, much of which comes from daily donations from the local Hannaford Supermarkets store in Lewiston. “This gift will make a profound difference in our ability to serve the people of Lewiston and beyond,” said Trinity Jubilee Center’s Executive Director Erin Reed. “We are thrilled to be able to open a facility that will allow us to meet the growing need in our community and provide the services that so many rely on. Hannaford’s support plays a crucial role in helping us achieve that mission.” For more information visit trinityjubileecenter.org . We invite you to add your comments. We encourage a thoughtful exchange of ideas and information on this website. By joining the conversation, you are agreeing to our commenting policy and terms of use . More information is found on our FAQs . You can modify your screen name here . Comments are managed by our staff during regular business hours Monday through Friday as well as limited hours on Saturday and Sunday. Comments held for moderation outside of those hours may take longer to approve. Please sign into your Sun Journal account to participate in conversations below. If you do not have an account, you can register or subscribe . Questions? Please see our FAQs . Your commenting screen name has been updated. Send questions/comments to the editors. « Previous Next »

Mobile phones turned 40 in 2024, but there’s no need for a foldables or AR glasses fueled midlife crisis before they're 50

The man who ended Nadal's career helps the Netherlands beat Germany to reach the Davis Cup final

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MILWAUKEE (AP) — Isaiah Johnson scored 21 points as Portland State beat Wofford 79-74 at the Cream City Challenge in Milwaukee on Sunday. Johnson had nine rebounds for the Vikings (3-3). Jaylin Henderson scored 18 points, shooting 6 for 12, including 4 for 10 from beyond the arc. Qiant Myers finished 5 of 8 from the field to finish with 10 points, while adding six rebounds and six assists. The Terriers (2-5) were led by Dillon Bailey, who posted 20 points. Corey Tripp added 17 points, five assists and two steals for Wofford. Kyler Filewich also had 10 points and six rebounds. NEXT UP Portland State plays Saturday against Utah Tech at home, and Wofford hosts North Alabama on Sunday. The Associated Press created this story using technology provided by Data Skrive and data from Sportradar .

AP News Summary at 3:01 p.m. EST

AP Sports SummaryBrief at 6:06 p.m. ESTChina's leaders on Monday pledged "more proactive" fiscal measures and "moderately" looser monetary policy next year to boost domestic consumption, according to an official readout of a key policy meeting that outlined upcoming economic priorities. The Politburo, a top decision-making body led by President Xi Jinping, said it will stabilize property and stock markets while strengthening the "unconventional counter-cyclical" adjustment, the Communist Party's CNBC-translated readout said. > 24/7 San Diego news stream: Watch NBC 7 free wherever you are This breaking news story is being updated. Also on CNBC China's top leaders are set to discuss GDP growth target, stimulus measures amid economic worries China consumer inflation rate drops to a five-month low, missing expectations as economy slows Electric car stock plays for 2025 as GM, Tesla struggle in China

Ange Postecoglou searching for answers over Tottenham’s injury crisisBoys soccer photos: Waldwick vs. Haddon Township, Group 1 final, Nov. 24, 2024Chinese President Xi Jinping and other top leaders are reportedly convening an annual central economic work conference this week to discuss economic policies and growth target for the year ahead. Market participants will watch the events this week for clues on how policymakers plan to steer the world's second-largest economy through entrenched deflation and looming U.S. tariffs. While the specific numbers will not be announced until March, it is widely expected that Beijing will keep its next year's GDP growth target at "around 5", if not slightly lower. Chinese President Xi Jinping and other top leaders are gearing up for the annual central economic work conference, reportedly set to take place this week, as Beijing strives to boost growth. While an official date for the two-day conclave has yet to be announced, Bloomberg has reported that the closed-door meeting will be held from Dec. 11 to 12. Usually, the annual conference is preceded by the high-profile gathering of the Politburo, the top decision making body led by president Xi. During both meetings, top policymakers will review economic performance and policy implementation in the current year, while setting priorities for the following year, economists at Goldman Sachs said. The central government will also discuss its growth target and budget for 2025, partly to give local governments a guidance for setting their own targets ahead of the annual parliament session early next year, according to Goldman Sachs. While the specific numbers will not be announced until March, it is widely expected that Beijing will keep its next year's GDP growth target at "around 5" — same as the current year — if not slightly lower. "If history is any guide, policymakers may leave the 2025 growth target unchanged at around 5% or lower it to 4.5-5%, said Larry Hu, chief China economist at Macquarie, adding that Chinese policymakers have never lowered target by more than 0.5 percentage points in the past. China's government has rarely failed to meet its growth targets, with only two exceptions where growth fell significantly short of the target, in 1990 and 2022, according to Lynn Song, chief economist at ING. While China's economy is on track to achieve this year's growth target of "around 5%," it is still contending with several longer-term problems, including a prolonged housing downturn, tepid domestic consumption and escalation in trade tensions with the U.S. as Donald Trump returns to the White House. Chinese officials have ramped up stimulus announcements since late Septembe r, including several interest rate cuts, looser property purchase rules, and liquidity support for stock markets. Recent data indicated that existing stimulus measures have worked to lift some aspects of the economy, but were still not enough to offset persistent deflationary pressures. In November the country's already near-zero consumer price inflation fell to a five-month low , and a deflation in wholesale prices deepened further, with the producer price index falling for the 26th straight month, data on Monday showed. The country's persistent consumption slowdown traces back to the country's real estate slump and its deep ties to local government finances. Last month, Chinese Minister of Finance announced a $1.4 trillion package to alleviate the local governments' debt crisis. The authorities need to further expand the scale of the debt swap program, economists at Morgan Stanley said in a note, given that local government financial vehicle debt was at nearly half of the country's GDP. Beijing is also expected to widen its fiscal deficit by 1.4 percentage point, which would allow more central government borrowing to shore up the economy, according to Morgan Stanley. Even as the fiscal deficit widened to 3.8% in Oct. 2023 with the issuance of special bonds, authorities in March reverted to their deficit target of 3% . In the face of additional tariffs, the Chinese leadership may consider larger fiscal packages next year "in a multiple stage fashion" as it monitors and reacts to U.S. policy, economists from Barclays said in a note. Trump, who takes office in January 2025, has said he will impose an additional 10% tariffs on Chinese goods unless Beijing does more to stop the trafficking of the highly addictive narcotic fentanyl. He had also threatened to impose tariffs in excess of 60% on Chinese goods during his election campaign trial. The latest tariff threat is likely a "tactic to push China to the negotiation table," Barclays economists said, predicting the president-elect would eventually only deliver 30% additional tariffs. That, still, could create a drag of up to 1-percentage-point in China's GDP, they added. "A policy bazooka could arrive if the Trump tariffs hit China's exports hard," Macquarie's Hu said, adding that Beijing will have to stimulate domestic demand to achieve its growth target. Exports and manufacturing sectors can no longer power the economy to achieve annual growth of 4% to 5% in the next decade, Hu added, "they have simply become too large to drive growth in the long run" and exports face more risks from trade tensions. China needs to boost consumption to be the main growth driver, Hu stressed, by tackling unemployment and raising labor income, as well as providing more for the low-income groups. "A reasonable target is for household consumption to reach 50% of GDP," Hu said. China's government bonds have been on a tear amid expectations of further interest rate cuts and weak economic fundamentals. The 10-year yields recently dropped below the psychological benchmark of 2% to hit a multi-decade low. Chinese government has attempted to stem the bond rally, fueled by pessimism about its economy and a lack of attractive investment options. "The market is still pricing in some fiscal stimulus support early next year," said Edmund Goh, investment director at abrdn. Despite some encouraging signs of recovery in China's property market, "we didn't see any improvement in domestic economic data in the last few months," Goh added. On the equities front, Barry Gill, head of investment at UBS Asset Management said China is still his "top pick" given cheap valuations and "the most potential to surprise investors" on numerous fronts compared with other markets. Chinese benchmark CSI 300 was down 0.5% Monday after jumping 1.3% last Friday to its highest level in two weeks, as some traders positioned for further stimulus at this week's policy meeting. "A more decisive stimulus response and a turnaround for the markets in the next 12-18 months could be in the cards," the UBS asset management team said in an email. — CNBC's Evelyn Cheng contributed to this report.

WASHINGTON (AP) — The Biden administration has imposed sanctions on the founder of Georgia’s ruling political party, which has steered the country away from a pro-Western stance and towards Russia, U.S. officials said Friday. The State and Treasury departments said they hit Georgian Dream party founder and honorary chairman Bidzina Ivanishvili with penalties “for undermining the democratic and Euro-Atlantic future of Georgia for the benefit of the Russian Federation," according to a statement. The designation of Ivanishvili is the latest in a series of sanctions the U.S. has slapped on Georgian politicians, lawmakers and others this year. Those sanctions include freezes on assets and properties those targeted may have in U.S. jurisdictions or that might enter U.S. jurisdictions as well as travel bans on the targets and members of their families. “We strongly condemn Georgian Dream’s actions under Ivanishvili’s leadership, including its ongoing and violent repression of Georgian citizens, protestors, members of the media, human rights activists, and opposition figures,” the State Department said in a statement. “The United States is committed to promoting accountability for those undermining democracy and human rights in Georgia." Ivanishvili is a shadowy billionaire who made his fortune in Russia and served briefly as Georgia’s prime minister. In 2012, he founded Georgian Dream, Georgia’s longtime ruling party. Critics have accused Georgian Dream of becoming increasingly authoritarian and tilted toward Moscow. The party recently pushed through laws similar to those used by the Kremlin to crack down on freedom of speech and LGBTQ+ rights, prompting the European Union to suspend Georgia’s membership application process indefinitely. In October, Georgian Dream won another term in a divisive parliamentary election that has led to more mass protests. Last month, the country’s prime minister, Irakli Kobakhidze , announced a four-year suspension of talks on Georgia's bid to join the European Union, fueling further public outrage.

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A big battery will plug into the solar corridor to the south of Canberra, with the profits to go to the taxpayer in a revenue-sharing first. Located next to existing powerlines and solar farms, construction has begun on Eku Energy's $400 million project that will bring 200 jobs for local tradies. The 250 megawatt/500 MW hour Williamsdale battery energy storage system located 35km south of Canberra will store enough renewable energy to power one-third of the capital for two hours during peak demand periods when it comes online in 2026. A critical energy asset for greater energy security and a bulwark against future price spikes, it is also a crucial step in the fight against climate change, according to ACT Chief Minister Andrew Barr. Importantly, a revenue-sharing deal means profits from the project will flow to the ACT and pay for more clean energy and other services for a growing population, he said in Williamsdale. "That is an important principle for our community, who want to see investment in renewable energy and battery storage not only supporting the effectiveness and reliability of our energy network but generating revenue." Recently re-elected and already the nation's longest-serving political leader, Mr Barr says the revenue-sharing model could be extended nationally as a good template for government procurement. Working with Evoenergy, Tesla Energy and the Australian Energy Market Operator, the Williamsdale battery will also be part of the NSW energy market and the broader east coast energy market. "The electrons flow in real time so what we would be replacing is the next most expensive form of generation when we dispatch," Eku Energy chief executive Daniel Burrows told AAP. It will provide additional supply when the market is tight, which should help lower wholesale prices and support making more clean energy available when it is required, he said. The battery will also provide more grid security by responding within milliseconds to demand and storing energy when it is abundant. "What we have in Australia is a prevalence of distributed energy - rooftop solar, large-scale wind and batteries - and a reasonably sophisticated grid," Mr Burrows said. "As we're doing business all around the world, other businesses, other governments, other industry players are looking to what happens here as to how we might manage the energy transition." Not a player in a nuclear energy future, he says Eku Energy focuses on projects that are "genuinely the most cost-effective and will stand the test of time". A $500 million community grants program set up by the company will be available to eligible local non-profit organisations for employment and education, social and environment initiatives. Another $500,000 will go to an Australian National University program that has been a testing ground for neighbourhood batteries and other technology. "Research funding in this area helps ensure we remain at the forefront of advancing technology for a clean energy future," Battery Storage and Grid Integration Program co-director Heather Logie says. Minister for Climate Change, Environment, Energy and Water Suzanne Orr donned high-vis gear to shovel dirt alongside Mr Barr in her first public engagement in her new portfolio. Simon Corbell, the architect of the ACT's clean energy transition as a Labor minister more than a decade ago, is one of her heroes, she told AAP. "Everyone has a different journey in coming to politics and mine has definitely been flavoured by the environmental movement," she said. Ms Orr, first elected in 2016, replaced former energy and emissions reduction minister Greens Leader Shane Rattenbury in the new government that has taken power without the ACT Greens as a partner. Canberra has already achieved a nation-leading 100 per cent renewable electricity supply and the ACT is aiming for net-zero emissions by 2045. The territory is phasing out household gas, with support for households to buy new appliances, electric vehicles, solar panels and batteries. But Ms Orr said the next stage of the transition will be more than "care and maintenance" of what has already been achieved. "I don't think anyone wants to rest on their laurels," she said. The Big Canberra Battery project that Mr Barr began as climate action minister will include the large-scale system in Williamsdale and neighbourhood-scale batteries at nine government sites.

Clouds, rain, fog patches and warmer-than-normal temperatures are in the forecast for Ottawa this Sunday. Environment Canada calls for a high of 6 C, cloudy skies, rain beginning this afternoon and fog patches dissipating this morning. The weather agency says an amount of five to 10 millimetres of rain is forecasted. The weather agency anticipates 10 mm of rain and temperature near 7 C for tonight. The warmer-than-normal temperatures will continue through Monday with a high of 10 C and a 40 per cent chance of rain. A low of 1C and a 40 per cent chance of rain are expected for the night. Tuesday will see cloudy skies with a high of 3 C and a low of 1 C. The average temperatures for this time of year are a high of -6 C and a low of -14 C. Shopping Trends The Shopping Trends team is independent of the journalists at CTV News. We may earn a commission when you use our links to shop. Read about us. Editor's Picks Here Are All The Best Amazon Boxing Day Deals You Can Find On Beauty Products In Canada These Walking Pads Will Help You Get 10,000 Steps Every Day (And They're On Sale In The Name Of Boxing Day) 10 Family Calendars And Planners That'll Help You Keep Track Of Everything In The New Year Home If You're Headed Somewhere Warm On Vacation, Don't Forget To Pack These 16 Things Our Guide To The Best Snow Shovels In Canada In 2024 (And Where To Get Them) 14 Of The Best Home Security Devices You Can Find Online Right Now (And They've Got The Reviews To Prove It) Gifts The Clock Is Ticking — Shop These 25 Last-Minute Amazon Prime Gifts Now If You Have An Amazon Prime Account, These 70+ Crowd-Pleasing Gifts Will Still Arrive Before Christmas If You Have An Amazon Prime Account, These 50 Brilliant Stocking Stuffers Will Still Arrive Before Christmas Beauty 20 Products Your Dry, Dehydrated Skin Will Thank You For Ordering 14 Hydrating Face Masks That’ll Save Your Skin This December 12 Budget-Friendly Products To Add To Your Winter Skincare Routine Deals 11 Bestselling Coffee Makers And Espresso Machines You Can Get On Sale Right Now Don’t Walk, Run! These LEGO Kits Are On Sale For Boxing Day 2024 The Waterpik Advanced Water Flosser Will Make Cleaning Your Teeth So Much Easier — And It's 41% Off For Boxing Day Ottawa Top Stories FREEZING DRIZZLE ADVISORY | Slippery road conditions expected in Ottawa with freezing drizzle tonight What's happening in Ottawa over the Christmas holidays G2 driver stopped going more than 100 km/h over the speed limit on Hwy. 401 in eastern Ontario TC Energy says early morning gas leak near Cornwall, Ont. resolved International teams make their debut at the Bell Capital Cup in Ottawa Families enjoy unique programming at Ottawa museums over holiday break Major hockey tournaments, holiday shoppers bring big business to Ottawa Here’s what’s next for your Christmas tree CTVNews.ca Top Stories A plane is engulfed in flames after skidding off the runway in South Korea, killing at least 177 A passenger plane burst into flames Sunday after it skidded off a runway at a South Korean airport and slammed into a concrete fence when its front landing gear apparently failed to deploy. Most of the 181 people on board died in one of the country’s worst aviation disasters. Canadian model Dayle Haddon dies from suspected carbon monoxide poisoning Dayle Haddon, an actor, activist and trailblazing former 'Sports Illustrated' model who pushed back against age discrimination by reentering the industry as a widow, has died in a Pennsylvania home from what authorities believe was carbon monoxide poisoning. Trump appears to side with Musk, tech allies in debate over foreign workers roiling his supporters U.S. president-elect Donald Trump appears to be siding with Elon Musk and his other backers in the tech industry as a dispute over immigration visas has divided his supporters. A by-the-numbers look back at Canadian finance in 2024 The big questions in Canadian finance heading into 2024 were whether the economy could avoid a recession and what would happen with interest rates. Mississauga tow truck driver charged for impersonating a cop in northern Ont. A southern Ontario resident has been charged for allegedly impersonating a peace officer during a towing incident in northwestern Ontario. Azerbaijan's president says crashed jetliner was shot down by Russia, albeit not intentionally Azerbaijan's President Ilham Aliyev said Sunday that the Azerbaijani airliner that crashed last week was shot down by Russia, albeit unintentionally. SIU investigating after Toronto cops discharge sock round, less-lethal firearm at man that resulted in serious injuries The province’s police watchdog is investigating after Toronto officers discharged sock round and less-lethal firearm at a man who had allegedly stabbed another person in the city’s Rockcliffe-Smythe area on Saturday morning. Tornadoes in Texas and Mississippi kill 2 and injure 6 as severe weather system moves east At least two people were killed and six more injured as several tornadoes touched down in Texas and Mississippi on Saturday, damaging homes and flipping vehicles as the storm system moved east across Alabama early Sunday. Vancouver man defrauded Chinese developers of US$500K, court rules A Vancouver man has been ordered to pay more than US$500,000 after a B.C. Supreme Court judge found he had defrauded the would-be developers of a real estate project in China of that amount. Atlantic No one injured after vehicle crashes into Shoppers Drug Mart: N.S. RCMP RCMP is investigating after a vehicle crashed into a Shoppers Drug Mart in Lower Sackville, N.S. on Saturday. Nova Scotia Muslim Society making hot meals and winter care packages for those in need For the fourth consecutive year, the Nova Scotia Islamic Society got together on Saturday to prepare warm meals and winter care packages to hand out for their community. Environment Canada forecasts mix of freezing rain and rain for parts of Maritimes Some nasty weather is headed toward parts of the Maritimes over the next few days, bringing with it a mix of freezing rain, rain and snow. Toronto ‘Significant rainfall,’ and heavy fog expected in the GTA, much of southern Ontario Sunday It’s expected to be a foggy and rainy day across the Greater Toronto Area (GTA) Sunday, with as much as 30 mm of rain expected in some locations. SIU investigating after Toronto cops discharge sock round, less-lethal firearm at man that resulted in serious injuries The province’s police watchdog is investigating after Toronto officers discharged sock round and less-lethal firearm at a man who had allegedly stabbed another person in the city’s Rockcliffe-Smythe area on Saturday morning. 1 person in hospital, suspect in police custody following stabbing in Fairbank One person is in hospital, and a suspect is in custody following a stabbing in Toronto’s Fairbank neighbourhood on Saturday. Montreal Friend of Quebec man killed in Florida boat explosion says his sister also injured A childhood friend of the Quebec man killed in a Florida boat explosion earlier this week says one of the victim's sisters was among the other six passengers injured in the blast. Women’s hockey looks to expand coverage and support as spotlight grows More girls and women than ever are lacing up their skates and hitting the ice. The rising popularity of women's hockey is driven by inspiration believes hockey coach Hanna Bunton Here's how you can watch CTV News Montreal at Six on Saturday during the NFL season With CTV broadcasting NFL football games on Saturday this season, CTV News Montreal at Six will be broadcasting live on our website and the CTV News App. Northern Ontario Pair of 911 calls leads to two impaired driving arrests in three hours A pair of 911 calls from concerned citizens led to two separate impaired driving charges in a single northern Ontario town within three hours. Calgary Skyview MP George Chahal joins growing chorus of Liberals calling for Trudeau to step down Calgary Liberal MP George Chahal has publicly released letters he sent to the Liberal caucus and president of the Liberal Party of Canada, calling on them to begin the process of moving on from Prime Minister Justin Trudeau. Five southern Ont. hunters fined $37K for moose hunt offences in northern Ont. A multi-year moose hunting investigation resulted in five people being convicted of moose hunting offences and fined a total of $37,000, plus $9,250 in victim surcharges. Windsor Community partners in Windsor propose education campaign to veer people away from payday loans In a move aimed at combatting the financial strain caused by payday loans, the City of Windsor is considering the launch of a comprehensive education campaign to promote alternative financial options. Ex-boyfriend arrested for violating bail conditions Chatham-Kent police have made an arrest after a man allegedly violated his bail conditions. Trudeau, Carney push back over Trump's ongoing 51st state comments Two senior members of the federal cabinet were in Florida Friday pushing Canada's new $1.3 billion border plan with members of Donald Trump's transition team, a day after Prime Minister Justin Trudeau himself appeared to finally push back at the president-elect over his social media posts about turning Canada into the 51st state. London St. Thomas fraud victim loses nearly $100K to job scam According to police, the victim was investing money into a company that they believed they were employed by for over a month. Ending the year with above seasonal temperatures Warmer conditions are expected in the London, Ont. region this weekend, with the high forecast in the double digits. Trudeau, Carney push back over Trump's ongoing 51st state comments Two senior members of the federal cabinet were in Florida Friday pushing Canada's new $1.3 billion border plan with members of Donald Trump's transition team, a day after Prime Minister Justin Trudeau himself appeared to finally push back at the president-elect over his social media posts about turning Canada into the 51st state. Kitchener Cambridge industrial plant dealing with major damages after fire A fire Saturday morning has a Cambridge industrial plant dealing with major damage. Minor flooding possible with snow melt, rain on way: GRCA The Waterloo Region and the city of Guelph will be wrapping up 2024 with unusually warm weather over the weekend. Stretch of Kitchener road closed after gas leak at abandoned building Kitchener Fire is investigating after a "strange odor" was reported on Courtland Avenue East Saturday. Barrie Deluxe taxi goes up in flames in Barrie parking lot Some locals were quick to pull out their cellphones and capture a minivan as it went up in hot flames in a Barrie parking lot. Boxing Day bust: Police allege shopper stole from LCBO amid holiday rush While Boxing Day is known for securing the best deals, one local shopper took things too far and allegedly tried to score a deal at a free cost. County Road 56 reopens following afternoon collision County Road 56 in Essa Township was closed for an afternoon collision. Winnipeg The most-read stories on CTV Winnipeg in 2024 Historic events, community pride and significant losses dominated headlines in Manitoba in 2024. Here’s a list of the most-read stories of each month of 2024 on CTV News Winnipeg. Cross-country ski race returns to Windsor Park The Prairie Holiday Loppet made its long-awaited return to Winnipeg’s Windsor Park Saturday, with dozens of racers hitting the trails. Have you seen Genevieve? RCMP search for woman last seen on Christmas Eve Thompson RCMP are searching for a woman who went missing from Split Lake earlier this week. Calgary 1 arrested after 3 stabbed in Airdrie, inluding 2 youth Airdrie RCMP have arrested a male in connection with multiple aggravated assaults that left three people injured. Danielle Smith meet-and-greet with Calgary Chinese community wins some hearts but not all Danielle Smith dropped by the Edgemont Community Association for a meet-and-greet Saturday with some member's of Calgary's Chinese community to answer questions and press the flesh, but a format change left Helen Yu feeling a little shortchanged. Calgary Skyview MP George Chahal joins growing chorus of Liberals calling for Trudeau to step down Calgary Liberal MP George Chahal has publicly released letters he sent to the Liberal caucus and president of the Liberal Party of Canada, calling on them to begin the process of moving on from Prime Minister Justin Trudeau. Edmonton Edmonton street photographer captures moments and people one frame at a time A local photographer who is passionate about capturing moments in one-hundredth of a second embraced many styles of his trade before landing on one which truly represents his mantra: street photography. 2 vehicles fall through ice at Sylvan Lake, promoting police warning RCMP issued a warning Saturday after two vehicles fell through the ice on Sylvan Lake. Late OT goal helps lift Kings past Oilers 4-3 Quinton Byfield scored his second goal of the game with 1:41 remaining in overtime as the Los Angeles Kings beat the Edmonton Oilers 4-3 on Saturday. Regina Regina man showcases local bead supply business Jeramy Hannah recently began selling beading supplies, after he realized the beaders in his life were struggling with a lack of local vendors, prompting him to create a business called Bead Bro. 'A great holiday memory': Echo Valley Provincial Park gets plenty of visitors at Skate the Park launch Families and groups of friends made use of the good weather as the new season of Skate the Park got underway at Echo Valley Provincial Park. Missing 89-year-old Moose Jaw man found dead, no foul play suspected: Police Saskatoon U18 provincials curling tournament underway in PA Teams from across Saskatchewan are in Prince Albert for the U18 curling provincials. Police made two arrests following a shooting in Saskatoon A swift response from Saskatoon police led to the arrest of a man and woman following a reported shooting Friday afternoon. Saskatoon fire crews battle house fire Saskatoon firefighters responded to a house fire on the 100 block of Klassen Crescent Friday afternoon. Vancouver Vancouver man defrauded Chinese developers of US$500K, court rules A Vancouver man has been ordered to pay more than US$500,000 after a B.C. Supreme Court judge found he had defrauded the would-be developers of a real estate project in China of that amount. Vince Dunn's second goal comes in overtime as Kraken rally past Canucks 5-4 Vince Dunn scored his second goal of the game 2:15 into overtime as the Seattle Kraken rallied from a three-goal, third-period deficit to defeat the Vancouver Canucks 5-4 on Saturday afternoon. Burnaby RCMP investigating bear spray incident at Metrotown Mounties in Burnaby are investigating after several bystanders were affected by bear spray outside the Metrotown mall Friday evening. Vancouver Island Victoria police seek witnesses, additional victims after hit-and-run spree A woman is facing seven charges after allegedly committing multiple hit-and-run crashes in a stolen vehicle while impaired, according to police in B.C.'s capital. Vancouver man defrauded Chinese developers of US$500K, court rules A Vancouver man has been ordered to pay more than US$500,000 after a B.C. Supreme Court judge found he had defrauded the would-be developers of a real estate project in China of that amount. New Canadians, non-traditional demographics boost minor hockey uptake in B.C. Participation in hockey in British Columbia was struggling in 2021 — the pandemic had dealt a heavy blow to player registrations, and numbers had already been flagging before COVID-19 arrived. Kelowna B.C. team building 100 beaver 'starter homes' in the name of wetland preservation More than 70 manmade beaver dams have been installed in Interior waterways since the B.C. Wildlife Federation project launched last year with the goal of building 100 dams by the end of 2025. B.C. man charged with drug trafficking and weapons offences after CBSA investigation A resident of B.C.'s Interior has been charged with weapon and drug trafficking offences after an investigation launched by border agents at Vancouver International Airport earlier this year. B.C woman awarded nearly $750K in court case against contractor A B.C. woman has been awarded nearly $750,000 in damages in a dispute with a contractor who strung her along for a year and a half and failed to complete a renovation, according to a recent court decision. Stay Connected

Alexander Brothers , a multimillionaire realtor , is accused of human trafficking . Following civil lawsuits accusing the siblings of sexual misconduct, the arrests were made. Oren and Tal Alexander, two upscale real estate brokers, were arrested on Wednesday along with their brother and accused of human trafficking, as quoted in a report by the Daily Beast. Their attorneys confirmed to The Wall Street Journal that the brokers, who own the record for selling the most expensive house in America, were arrested in Florida along with Alon Alexander, a security firm executive. The siblings collaborated for well over ten years to repeatedly and violently drug, sexually assault, and rape dozens of victims, according to an indictment filed by federal prosecutors. Also Read : After being denied refund for faulty used Subaru by car dealership, Utah man did the unexpected. Details here Artificial Intelligence(AI) Basics of Generative AI: Unveiling Tomorrow's Innovations By - Metla Sudha Sekhar, IT Specialist and Developer View Program Artificial Intelligence(AI) Java Programming with ChatGPT: Learn using Generative AI By - Metla Sudha Sekhar, IT Specialist and Developer View Program Design Microsoft Designer Guide: The Ultimate AI Design Tool By - Prince Patni, Software Developer (BI, Data Science) View Program Data Science MySQL for Beginners: Learn Data Science and Analytics Skills By - Metla Sudha Sekhar, IT Specialist and Developer View Program Design Canva Magic Write: Ideas to Stunning Slides in No Time By - Prince Patni, Software Developer (BI, Data Science) View Program Office Productivity Mastering Microsoft Office: Word, Excel, PowerPoint, and 365 By - Metla Sudha Sekhar, IT Specialist and Developer View Program Artificial Intelligence(AI) AI for Everyone: Understanding and Applying the Basics on Artificial Intelligence By - Ritesh Vajariya, Generative AI Expert View Program Finance A2Z Of Money By - elearnmarkets, Financial Education by StockEdge View Program Web Development Advanced C++ Mastery: OOPs and Template Techniques By - Metla Sudha Sekhar, IT Specialist and Developer View Program Marketing Digital Marketing Masterclass by Neil Patel By - Neil Patel, Co-Founder and Author at Neil Patel Digital Digital Marketing Guru View Program Strategy Succession Planning Masterclass By - Nigel Penny, Global Strategy Advisor: NSP Strategy Facilitation Ltd. View Program Entrepreneurship Validating Your Startup Idea: Steps to Ensure Market Fit By - Dr. Anu Khanchandani, Startup Coach with more than 25 years of experience View Program Data Analysis Animated Visualizations with Flourish Studio: Beginner to Pro By - Prince Patni, Software Developer (BI, Data Science) View Program Artificial Intelligence(AI) AI and Analytics based Business Strategy By - Tanusree De, Managing Director- Accenture Technology Lead, Trustworthy AI Center of Excellence: ATCI View Program Office Productivity Zero to Hero in Microsoft Excel: Complete Excel guide 2024 By - Metla Sudha Sekhar, IT Specialist and Developer View Program Data Science SQL for Data Science along with Data Analytics and Data Visualization By - Metla Sudha Sekhar, IT Specialist and Developer View Program Web Development JavaScript Essentials: Unlock AI-Driven Insights with ChatGPT By - Metla Sudha Sekhar, IT Specialist and Developer View Program Entrepreneurship Marketing & Sales Strategies for Startups: From Concept to Conversion By - Dr. Anu Khanchandani, Startup Coach with more than 25 years of experience View Program Leadership Business Storytelling Masterclass By - Ameen Haque, Founder of Storywallahs View Program Marketing Modern Marketing Masterclass by Seth Godin By - Seth Godin, Former dot com Business Executive and Best Selling Author View Program According to the indictment, the brothers occasionally used the promise of luxury experiences to lure and entice women to locations where they were then forcibly raped or sexually assaulted, sometimes by multiple men, including one or more of the Alexander brothers. Alon and Oren Alexander, 37, were accused of rape in lawsuits filed by two women earlier this year. In a subsequent filing, the Journal reported that similar allegations were made against their 38-year-old brother, Tal Alexander. The three have refuted the allegations, and their solicitors have deemed the civil cases without merit. According to Bloomberg, on Wednesday morning, police cars and FBI agents were spotted outside Oren's Miami Beach waterfront mansion. The outlet was informed by a representative of the bureau's New York office that agents were carrying out research. Following their departure from Douglas Elliman, Oren and Tal Alexander co-founded the real estate company Official in 2022. The brokerage has been featured on reality TV programs such as Million$ Listing. Other executives and agents left Official after the civil allegations surfaced this year, and the brothers resigned from their positions. Also Read : As the Eras tour ended, here's what Taylor Swift has lined up next The website of the family's private security company, Kent Security, no longer features Alon Alexander's name. In 2019, the Alexander brothers sold a $238 million Manhattan penthouse to Ken Griffin, the founder of the billionaire hedge fund Citadel . The transaction became the most costly home sale in American history. FAQs What are the Alexander brothers charged with? Oren and Tal Alexander have been accused of drugging, sexually assaulting, and raping victims for more than a decade, often luring them with promises of luxury experiences. What impact will these charges have on their business? Following the allegations, the Alexander brothers resigned from their real estate firm, Official, as the company experienced significant executive departures. Their names were also removed from other family businesses, including Kent Security. (You can now subscribe to our Economic Times WhatsApp channel )49ers rule out Charvarius Ward for Monday Night FootballThe AP Top 25 women’s college basketball poll is back every week throughout the season! Get the poll delivered straight to your inbox with AP Top 25 Poll Alerts. Sign up here . IOWA CITY, Iowa (AP) — Addison O’Grady scored 12 points and No. 24 Iowa defeated Purdue 84-63 on Sunday in a game in which only two players reached double figures in scoring. O’Grady made 4 of 7 shots and 4 of 6 free throws for the Hawkeyes (10-3, 1-1 Big Ten). Iowa’s balanced scoring was so thorough that five players scored nine points and one had eight. Among that group, Sydney Affolter had nine points, seven rebounds and six assists. Ava Heiden had nine points and eight rebounds. Destini Lombard had 12 points for Purdue (7-6, 0-2). Iowa shot 67% in the first quarter, seven players scored, and the Hawkeyes led 27-13. Iowa outscored the Boilermakers 15-3 over the final 4 1/2 minutes of the second quarter to take a 50-32 lead at the half. Five players scored in that run. In the third quarter, the Hawkeyes again dominated the final few minutes, outscoring Purdue 11-0 over the final 3 1/2 minutes. The Hawkeyes made 6 of their last 8 shots in the fourth quarter. Coming up, Iowa has a road game against Penn State on Wednesday and a home game against No. 8 Maryland on Jan. 5. Purdue will be at No. 19 Michigan State on Wednesday. ___ Get poll alerts and updates on the AP Top 25 throughout the season. Sign up here . AP women’s college basketball: https://apnews.com/hub/ap-top-25-womens-college-basketball-poll and https://apnews.com/hub/womens-college-basketball

December 17, 2024 This article has been reviewed according to Science X's editorial process and policies . Editors have highlightedthe following attributes while ensuring the content's credibility: fact-checked trusted source proofread by Johnny von Einem, University of Adelaide Hydrologic modelers are increasingly using explainable AI (XAI) to provide additional insight into complex hydrological problems, but a new University of Adelaide study suggests XAI's insights may not be as revolutionary as proponents suggest. XAI is a field of research and set of methods that helps people understand how AI algorithms work and trust the results they produce. The traditional use of hydrological modeling would see a researcher use information on rainfall and evaporation to address issues such as water supply security and flooding. If such models are developed using AI approaches, XAI is tasked with explaining the rationale that the AI model used to develop the relationships it describes between factors such as rainfall and water supply. But according to the study published in the Journal of Hydrology X , led by Professor Holger Maier of the University of Adelaide's School of Architecture and Civil Engineering, using XAI in hydrological modeling has not yet created the advancements the technology might eventually lead to. "Many XAI approaches are similar to more traditional methods of interrogating existing models, such as sensitivity or break-even analysis," says Professor Maier. "In fact, the approach of developing data-driven models to obtain a better understanding of hydrological processes to inform the development of more physics-based models is as old as hydrology itself. "Therefore, it remains to be established whether XAI methods can provide insights beyond those obtained through more traditional methods." For hydrological modeling to fully benefit from XAI's potential, Professor Maier says the current tech-centric approach should be reconsidered. "With XAI, there is often a focus on maximizing the predictive ability of AI models at all costs, which tends to result in large models that might have thousands or even millions of ill-defined parameters," he says. "There is little value in explaining AI-derived relationships if these do not reflect underlying hydrological processes. "We also need to stop thinking about XAI as a purely technical approach, and instead employ a socio-technical approach that views XAI as a process that can assist with solving problems that are situated within broader social and political contexts." In a previous study , Professor Maier and colleagues highlighted the fallibility of AI in hydrological modeling. "Despite a model being built on a large dataset, and the predictive ability of the model being very good, we saw it model a negative contribution to the streamflow of a creek from rainfall, which does not make physical sense," says Professor Maier. Because of these issues, the implementation of XAI—which would otherwise try to explain the rationale behind rainfall leading to less water in a creek—should be slowed while the technology is rigorously tested against known models to ensure accuracy. "There is no point in applying XAI methods to AI models that are unable to represent underlying processes in a consistent and reliable fashion," Professor Maier said. More information: Holger Robert Maier et al, How much X is in XAI: Responsible use of "Explainable" artificial intelligence in hydrology and water resources, Journal of Hydrology X (2024). DOI: 10.1016/j.hydroa.2024.100185 Provided by University of AdelaideBEIRUT (AP) — Insurgents’ stunning march across Syria gained speed on Saturday with news that they had reached the suburbs of the capital and with the government forced to deny rumors that President Bashar Assad had fled the country. The rebels’ moves around Damascus, reported by an opposition war monitor and a rebel commander, came after the Syrian army withdrew from much of southern part of the country, leaving more areas, including two provincial capitals, under the control of opposition fighters. The advances in the past week were among the largest in recent years by opposition factions, led by a group that has its origins in al-Qaida and is considered a terrorist organization by the U.S. and the United Nations. As they have advanced, the insurgents, led by the group, or HTS, have met little resistance from the Syrian army. The U.N.’s special envoy for Syria, Geir Pedersen, on Saturday called for urgent talks in Geneva to ensure an “orderly political transition.” Speaking to reporters at the annual Doha Forum in Qatar, he said the situation in Syria was changing by the minute. In Damascus, people rushed to stock up on supplies. Thousands rushed the Syria border with Lebanon, trying to leave the country. Many shops in the capital were shuttered, a resident told The Associated Press, and those that remained open ran out of staples such as sugar. Some shops were selling items at three times the normal price. “The situation is very strange. We are not used to that,” the resident said, insisting on anonymity, fearing retributions. “People are worried whether there will be a battle (in Damascus) or not.” It was the first time that opposition forces reach the outskirts of Damascus since 2018, when Syrian troops recaptured the area following a yearslong siege. Assad’s status Amid the developments, Syria’s state media denied rumors flooding social media that Assad has left the country, saying he is performing his duties in Damascus. Assad’s chief international backer, Russia, is busy with its war in Ukraine, and Lebanon’s powerful Hezbollah, which at one point sent thousands of fighters to shore up his forces, has been weakened by a yearlong conflict with Israel. Iran, meanwhile, has seen its proxies across the region degraded by regular Israeli airstrikes. Pedersen said a date for the talks in Geneva on the implementation of U.N. Resolution 2254 would be announced later. The resolution, adopted in 2015, called for a Syrian-led political process, starting with the establishment of a transitional governing body, followed by the drafting of a new constitution and ending with U.N.-supervised elections. The insurgents’ march Rami Abdurrahman, who heads the Britain-based Syrian Observatory for Human Rights, an opposition war monitor, said insurgents were in the Damascus suburbs of Maadamiyah, Jaramana and Daraya. Opposition fighters were also marching from eastern Syria toward the Damascus suburb of Harasta, he added. A commander with the insurgents, Hassan Abdul-Ghani, posted on the Telegram messaging app that opposition forces had begun the “final stage” of their offensive by encircling Damascus. Syria’s military, meanwhile, sent large numbers of reinforcements to defend the key central city of Homs, Syria’s third largest, as insurgents approached its outskirts. The shock offensive began Nov. 27, during which gunmen captured the northern city of Aleppo, Syria’s largest, and the central city of Hama, the country’s fourth largest city. HTS leader Abu told CNN in an interview Thursday from Syria that the aim is to overthrow Assad’s government. The Britain-based Observatory said Syrian troops have withdrawn from much of the two southern provinces and are sending reinforcements to Homs, where a battle is looming. If the insurgents capture Homs, they would cut the link between Damascus, Assad’s seat of power, and the coastal region where the president enjoys wide support. The Syrian army said in a statement Saturday that it has carried out redeployment and repositioning in Sweida and Daraa after its checkpoints came under attack by “terrorists.” The army said it is setting up a “strong and coherent defensive and security belt in the area,” apparently to defend Damascus from the south. The Syrian government has referred to opposition gunmen as terrorists since conflict broke out in March 2011. After the fall of the cities of Daraa and Sweida early Saturday, Syrian government forces remained in control of five provincial capitals — Damascus, Homs and Quneitra, as well as Latakia and Tartus on the Mediterranean coast. Tartus is home to the only Russian naval base outside the former Soviet Union while Latakia is home to a major Russian air base. Diplomacy in Doha In the gas-rich nation of Qatar, the foreign ministers of Iran, Russia and Turkey met to discuss the situation in Syria. Turkey is a main backer of the rebels. Qatar’s top diplomat, Sheikh Mohammed bin Abdulrahman Al Thani, criticized Assad for failing to take advantage of the lull in fighting in recent years to address the country’s underlying problems. “Assad didn’t seize this opportunity to start engaging and restoring his relationship with his people,” he said. Sheikh Mohammed said he was surprised by how quickly the rebels have advanced and said there is a real threat to Syria’s “territorial integrity.” He said the war could “damage and destroy what is left if there is no sense of urgency” to start a political process. After the fall of the cities of Daraa and Sweida early Saturday, Syrian government forces remained in control of five provincial capitals — Damascus, Homs and Quneitra, as well as Latakia and Tartus on the Mediterranean coast. On Friday, U.S.-backed fighters of the Kurdish-led Syrian Democratic Forces captured wide parts of the eastern province of Deir el-Zour that borders Iraq as well as the provincial capital that carries the same name. The capture of areas in Deir el-Zour is a blow to Iran’s influence in the region as the area is the gateway to the corridor linking the Mediterranean to Iran, a supply line for Iran-backed fighters, including Lebanon’s Hezbollah. With the capture of a main border crossing with Iraq by the SDF and after opposition fighters took control of the Naseeb border crossing to Jordan in southern Syria, the Syrian government’s only gateway to the outside world is the Masnaa border crossing with Lebanon. ____ Karam reported from London. Associated Press writers Albert Aji in Damascus, Syria and Qassim Abdul-Zahra in Baghdad contributed to this report.‘Dazzling’ Notre Dame re-opens five years after fire

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PHILADELPHIA (AP) — Saquon Barkley knew the Eagles season rushing record could be his on Sunday with the type of stellar performance that has become the standard during his first season in Philadelphia. As for the exact moment Barkley hit the milestone, he wasn't sure — until the “MVP!” chants echoed throughout the Linc after a 9-yard run in the fourth quarter . “The records are great, they put a smile on your face,” Barkley said, “but the season is far from over.” Needing 109 yards to break LeSean McCoy's record, Barkley rushed for 124 yards and pushed his season total to 1,623 in a 22-16 victory over Carolina . Barkley needed just 13 games to pass McCoy, who rushed for 1,607 yards in 2013. He also overtook Wilbert Montgomery, who had 1,512 yards in 1978. “I never wrote the goal down to break it,” Barkley said. “You're always aware of it. That's how I train. That's how I operate in the offseason. I want to be great.” Barkley also maintained his pace to break Eric Dickerson’s NFL single-season rushing record of 2,105 yards, set in 1984 with the Los Angeles Rams. “That would be extremely cool to do,” Barkley said. “If it happens, it happens, and not with the mindset of, I'm scared to go try to do it. Whatever it takes to win football games.” Barkley is averaging 124.8 yards per game. At that pace and with one more game to play than Dickerson, he would become the top single-season rusher in NFL history. He needs 483 yards yards over the final four games to top Dickerson’s 40-year-old record. He averaged 6.2 yards on 20 carries against the Panthers to help the Eagles win their ninth straight game. McCoy, who was inducted into the team's Hall of Fame this season, remains the franchise’s rushing leader with 6,792 yards. Referencing his old uniform number, McCoy congratulated Barkley on social media with “a lot of love, coming from 2-5." “Being a fan of Shady's growing up, and seeing the spectacular things he was able to do with the ball in his hand, to be able to have my name mentioned with him definitely means a lot,” Barkley said. Barkley left the New York Giants in the offseason and signed a three-year deal worth $26 million guaranteed to join the Eagles, who made him the highest-paid running back in franchise history. The 27-year-old has been worth every dollar. Barkley is among the favorites for league MVP, according to BetMGM Sportsbook. Buffalo Bills quarterback Josh Allen was the only player with better MVP odds entering Sunday. Barkley has a franchise-record nine 100-yard rushing games in a season. Although he was held out of the end zone Sunday, he began the day leading the league with four rushing touchdowns of 25-plus yards. Barkley, the No. 2 overall pick in the 2018 NFL draft, topped 1,000 yards three times in his six seasons with the Giants. He finished with 1,312 rushing yards and 10 touchdowns in 2022 and rushed for 1,307 yards and 11 scores as a rookie. Eagles general manager Howie Roseman, who had been unwilling to spend on elite running backs, pounced on Barkley and the decision was celebrated as a success in Philly from the first game of the season. Barkley rushed for two scores and caught a TD pass in the opener against Green Bay. His three touchdowns were the most by an Eagles player in his debut since Terrell Owens in 2004. Barkley only soared in production and popularity from there, his highlight reel stamped by a reverse leap over the head of a Jacksonville defender last month. He's since vaulted over every running back ahead of him on the Eagles rushing list — and has a chance at NFL history. ___ AP NFL: https://apnews.com/NFL Copyright 2024 The Associated Press . All rights reserved. This material may not be published, broadcast, rewritten or redistributed.DETROIT (AP) — For a second time, a Delaware judge has nullified a pay package that Tesla had awarded its CEO, Elon Musk, that once was valued at $56 billion. On Monday, Chancellor Kathaleen St. Jude McCormick to reverse a ruling she announced in January that had thrown out the compensation plan. The judge ruled then that Musk effectively controlled Tesla’s board and had engineered the outsize pay package during . Lawyers for a Tesla shareholder who sued to block the pay package contended that shareholders who had voted for the 10-year plan in 2018 had been given misleading and incomplete information. In their defense, Tesla’s board members asserted that the shareholders who ratified the pay plan a second time in June had done so after receiving full disclosures, thereby curing all the problems the judge had cited in her January ruling. As a result, they argued, Musk deserved the pay package for having raised Tesla’s market value by billions of dollars. McCormick rejected that argument. In her 103-page opinion, she ruled that under Delaware law, Tesla’s lawyers had no grounds to reverse her January ruling “based on evidence they created after trial.” On Monday night, Tesla posted on X, the social media platform owned by Musk, that the company will appeal. The appeal would be filed with the Delaware Supreme Court, the only state appellate court Tesla can pursue. Experts say a ruling would likely come in less than a year. “The ruling, if not overturned, means that judges and plaintiffs’ lawyers run Delaware companies rather than their rightful owners — the shareholders,” Tesla argued. Later, on X, Musk unleashed a blistering attack on the judge, asserting that McCormick is “a radical far left activist cosplaying as a judge.” Legal authorities generally suggest that McCormick’s ruling was sound and followed the law. Charles Elson, founding director of the Weinberg Center for Corporate Governance at the University of Delaware, said that in his view, McCormick was right to rule that after Tesla lost its case in the original trial, it created improper new evidence by asking shareholders to ratify the pay package a second time. Had she allowed such a claim, he said, it would cause a major shift in Delaware’s laws against conflicts of interest given the unusually close relationship between Musk and Tesla’s board. “Delaware protects investors — that’s what she did,” said Elson, who has followed the court for more than three decades. “Just because you’re a ‘superstar CEO’ doesn’t put you in a separate category.” Elson said he thinks investors would be reluctant to put money into Delaware companies if there were exceptions to the law for “special people.” Elson said that in his opinion, the court is likely to uphold McCormick’s ruling. Experts say no. Rulings on state laws are normally left to state courts. Brian Dunn, program director for the Institute of Compensation Studies at Cornell University, said it’s been his experience that Tesla has no choice but to stay in the Delaware courts for this compensation package. The company could try to reconstitute the pay package and seek approval in Texas, where it may expect more friendlier judges. But Dunn, who has spent 40 years as an executive compensation consultant, said it’s likely that some other shareholder would challenge the award in Texas because it’s excessive compared with other CEOs’ pay plans. “If they just want to turn around and deliver him $56 billion, I can’t believe somebody wouldn’t want to litigate it,” Dunn said. “It’s an unconscionable amount of money.” Almost certainly. Tesla stock is trading at 15 times the exercise price of stock options in the current package in Delaware, Morgan Stanley analyst Adam Jonas wrote in a note to investors. Tesla’s share price has doubled in the past six months, Jonas wrote. At Monday’s closing stock price, the Musk package is now worth $101.4 billion, according to Equilar, an executive data firm. And Musk has asked for a subsequent pay package that would give him 25% of Tesla’s voting shares. Musk has said he is uncomfortable moving further into artificial intelligence with the company if he doesn’t have 25% control. He currently holds about 13% of Tesla’s outstanding shares.

By TOM KRISHER, Associated Press DETROIT (AP) — For a second time, a Delaware judge has nullified a pay package that Tesla had awarded its CEO, Elon Musk, that once was valued at $56 billion. On Monday, Chancellor Kathaleen St. Jude McCormick turned aside a request from Musk’s lawyers to reverse a ruling she announced in January that had thrown out the compensation plan. The judge ruled then that Musk effectively controlled Tesla’s board and had engineered the outsize pay package during sham negotiations . Lawyers for a Tesla shareholder who sued to block the pay package contended that shareholders who had voted for the 10-year plan in 2018 had been given misleading and incomplete information. In their defense, Tesla’s board members asserted that the shareholders who ratified the pay plan a second time in June had done so after receiving full disclosures, thereby curing all the problems the judge had cited in her January ruling. As a result, they argued, Musk deserved the pay package for having raised Tesla’s market value by billions of dollars. McCormick rejected that argument. In her 103-page opinion, she ruled that under Delaware law, Tesla’s lawyers had no grounds to reverse her January ruling “based on evidence they created after trial.” What will Musk and Tesla do now? On Monday night, Tesla posted on X, the social media platform owned by Musk, that the company will appeal. The appeal would be filed with the Delaware Supreme Court, the only state appellate court Tesla can pursue. Experts say a ruling would likely come in less than a year. “The ruling, if not overturned, means that judges and plaintiffs’ lawyers run Delaware companies rather than their rightful owners — the shareholders,” Tesla argued. Later, on X, Musk unleashed a blistering attack on the judge, asserting that McCormick is “a radical far left activist cosplaying as a judge.” What do experts say about the case? Legal authorities generally suggest that McCormick’s ruling was sound and followed the law. Charles Elson, founding director of the Weinberg Center for Corporate Governance at the University of Delaware, said that in his view, McCormick was right to rule that after Tesla lost its case in the original trial, it created improper new evidence by asking shareholders to ratify the pay package a second time. Had she allowed such a claim, he said, it would cause a major shift in Delaware’s laws against conflicts of interest given the unusually close relationship between Musk and Tesla’s board. “Delaware protects investors — that’s what she did,” said Elson, who has followed the court for more than three decades. “Just because you’re a ‘superstar CEO’ doesn’t put you in a separate category.” Elson said he thinks investors would be reluctant to put money into Delaware companies if there were exceptions to the law for “special people.” What will the Delaware Supreme Court do? Elson said that in his opinion, the court is likely to uphold McCormick’s ruling. Can Tesla appeal to federal courts? Experts say no. Rulings on state laws are normally left to state courts. Brian Dunn, program director for the Institute of Compensation Studies at Cornell University, said it’s been his experience that Tesla has no choice but to stay in the Delaware courts for this compensation package. Tesla has moved its legal headquarters to Texas. Does that matter? The company could try to reconstitute the pay package and seek approval in Texas, where it may expect more friendlier judges. But Dunn, who has spent 40 years as an executive compensation consultant, said it’s likely that some other shareholder would challenge the award in Texas because it’s excessive compared with other CEOs’ pay plans. “If they just want to turn around and deliver him $56 billion, I can’t believe somebody wouldn’t want to litigate it,” Dunn said. “It’s an unconscionable amount of money.” Would a new pay package be even larger? Almost certainly. Tesla stock is trading at 15 times the exercise price of stock options in the current package in Delaware, Morgan Stanley analyst Adam Jonas wrote in a note to investors. Tesla’s share price has doubled in the past six months, Jonas wrote. At Monday’s closing stock price, the Musk package is now worth $101.4 billion, according to Equilar, an executive data firm. And Musk has asked for a subsequent pay package that would give him 25% of Tesla’s voting shares. Musk has said he is uncomfortable moving further into artificial intelligence with the company if he doesn’t have 25% control. He currently holds about 13% of Tesla’s outstanding shares.NEW YORK (AP) — In a string of visits, dinners, calls, monetary pledges and social media overtures, big tech chiefs — including Apple’s Tim Cook, OpenAI’s Sam Altman, Meta’s Mark Zuckerberg and Amazon’s Jeff Bezos — have joined a parade of business and world leaders in trying to improve their standing with President-elect Donald Trump before he takes office in January. “The first term, everybody was fighting me,” Trump said in remarks at Mar-a-Lago . “In this term, everybody wants to be my friend.” Tech companies and leaders have now poured millions into his inauguration fund, a sharp increase — in most cases — from past pledges to incoming presidents. But what does the tech industry expect to gain out of their renewed relationships with Trump? A clue to what the industry is looking for came just days before the election when Microsoft executives — who’ve largely tried to show a neutral or bipartisan stance — joined with a close Trump ally, venture capitalist Marc Andreessen, to publish a blog post outlining their approach to artificial intelligence policy. “Regulation should be implemented only if its benefits outweigh its costs,” said the document signed by Andreessen, his business partner Ben Horowitz, Microsoft CEO Satya Nadella and the company’s president, Brad Smith. They also urged the government to back off on any attempt to strengthen copyright laws that would make it harder for companies to use publicly available data to train their AI systems. And they said, “the government should examine its procurement practices to enable more startups to sell technology to the government.” Trump has pledged to rescind President Joe Biden’s sweeping AI executive order, which sought to protect people’s rights and safety without stifling innovation. He hasn’t specified what he would do in its place, but his campaign said AI development should be “rooted in Free Speech and Human Flourishing.” Trump’s choice to head the Interior Department, North Dakota Gov. Doug Burgum, has spoken openly about the need to boost electricity production to meet increased demand from data centers and artificial intelligence. “The AI battle affects everything from defense to healthcare to education to productivity as a country,′′ Burgum said on Nov. 15, referring to artificial intelligence. “And the AI that’s coming in the next 18 months is going to be revolutionary. So there’s just a sense of urgency and a sense of understanding in the Trump administration′′ to address it. Demand for data centers ballooned in recent years due to the rapid growth of cloud computing and artificial intelligence, and local governments are competing for lucrative deals with big tech companies. But as data centers begin to consume more resources, some residents are pushing back against the world’s most powerful corporations over concerns about the economic, social and environmental health of their communities. “Maybe Big Tech should buy a copy of ‘The Art of The Deal’ to figure out how to best negotiate with this administration,” suggested Paul Swanson, an antitrust attorney for the law firm Holland & Hart. “I won’t be surprised if they find ways to reach some accommodations and we end up seeing more negotiated resolutions and consent decrees.” Although federal regulators began cracking down on Google and Facebook during Trump’s first term as president — and flourished under Biden — most experts expect his second administration to ease up on antitrust enforcement and be more receptive to business mergers. Google may benefit from Trump’s return after he made comments on the campaign trail suggesting a breakup of the company isn’t in the U.S. national interest, after a judge declared its search engine an illegal monopoly . But recent nominations put forward by his transition team have favored those who have been critical of Big Tech companies, suggesting Google won’t be entirely off the hook. Cook’s notoriously rocky relationship with the EU can be traced back to a 2016 ruling from Brussels in a tax case targeting Apple. Cook slammed the bloc’s order for Apple to pay back up to $13.7 billion in Irish back taxes as “total political crap.” Trump, then in his first term as president, piled on, referring to the European Commissioner Margrethe Vestager, who was spearheading a campaign on special tax deals and a crackdown on Big Tech companies, as the “tax lady” who “really hates the U.S.” Brussels was eventually vindicated after the bloc’s top court rejected Apple’s appeal this year, though it didn’t stop Cook from calling Trump to complain, Trump recounted in a podcast in October. Trump hosted Cook for a Friday evening dinner at the president-elect’s Mar-a-Lago resort, according to a person familiar with the matter who was not authorized to comment publicly. Neither Apple nor the Trump transition team has commented on the nature of their discussions. Altman , Amazon and Meta all pledged to donate $1 million each to Trump’s inaugural fund. During his first term, Trump criticized Amazon and railed against the political coverage at The Washington Post, which billionaire Bezos owns. Meanwhile, Bezos had criticized some of Trump’s past rhetoric. In 2019, Amazon also argued in a court case that Trump’s bias against the company harmed its chances of winning a $10 billion Pentagon contract. More recently, Bezos has struck a more conciliatory tone. He recently said at The New York Times’ DealBook Summit in New York that he was “optimistic” about Trump’s second term, while also endorsing president-elect’s plans to cut regulations. The donation from Meta came just weeks after Zuckerberg met with Trump privately at Mar-a-Lago. During the 2024 campaign, Zuckerberg did not endorse a candidate for president, but voiced a more positive stance toward Trump. Earlier this year, he praised Trump’s response to his first assassination attempt. Still, Trump in recent months had continued to attack Zuckerberg publicly. And Altman, who is in a legal dispute with AI rival Elon Musk, has said he is “not that worried” about the Tesla CEO’s influence in the incoming administration. Musk, an early OpenAI investor and board member, sued the artificial intelligence company earlier this year alleging that the maker of ChatGPT betrayed its founding aims of benefiting the public good rather than pursuing profits.

This report is from today's CNBC Daily Open, our international markets newsletter. CNBC Daily Open brings investors up to speed on everything they need to know, no matter where they are. Like what you see? You can subscribe here . > Philadelphia news 24/7: Watch NBC10 free wherever you are Syria's Assad regime collapses after 50 years Syrian President Bashar Al-Assad has reportedly fled to Russia after a rebel advance over the weekend reached the capital city of Damascus, putting an end to 50 years of the Assad's family rule over Syria. Russian state news agencies, Tass and RIA, cited an unidentified Kremlin source on Assad and his family being given asylum in the country. South Korea's president survives impeachment vote South Korean president Yoon Seok Yeol has survived an impeachment vote over the weekend after his ruling People's Power Party boycotted the vote. The impeachment motion saw all 192 opposition lawmakers in favour of impeaching the president, but failed to clear the bar of 200 votes needed after only three PPP members voted for the motion. Court upholds law ordering TikTok sale in U.S. A federal appeals court upheld a law requiring China-based ByteDance to sell social media app TikTok next month or face an effective ban in the U.S. The court in an unanimous ruling rejected TikTok's argument that the law is unconstitutional and violates the First Amendment rights of the 170 million Americans who use the app . TikTok said that it will ask the U.S. Supreme Court to overturn the appeals court decision. S&P and Nasdaq reach new records On Friday, both the S&P 500 and Nasdaq Composite rose to fresh records after November jobs data fueled hopes that the Federal Reserve will cut rates after its meeting ends on Dec. 18 stateside. The S&P climbed 0.25% to 6,090.27, while the Nasdaq advanced 0.81% to 19,859.77. In contrast, the Dow Jones Industrial Average slipped 0.28%, to close at 44,642.52. [PRO] Chinese EV markets to benefit in 2025 Traditional foreign automakers were shown the exit on China's car market in 2024, which means that 2025 looks to be the year that a few local electric car companies can solidify their leadership in the world's second largest economy. A quote commonly attributed to Russian revolutionary Vladimir Lenin goes, "There are decades where nothing happens, and there are weeks when decades happen." While it is difficult, absurd even, to suggest that nothing has happened in the past few decades, a lot has certainly happened in the last two weeks. Over the weekend, Syria's president Bashar Al-Assad reportedly fled to Russia, ending 50 years of the Assad's family rule, South Korea's president survived an impeachment vote after declaring the first instance of martial law in over 40 years, and last week, France's government collapsed after a no-confidence vote, the first time that has happened in France in over 60 years. Could the political turmoil could cast a shadow over the typical year-end rally for markets, where markets usually climb? To be honest, it is difficult to say. On one hand, the effects of these political developments are not yet fully known and will cause uncertainty, but on the other hand, U.S. economic data seems to be supporting the case for a rise in markets. Traders expect the U.S. Federal Reserve to be the market's Santa Claus this year. According to the CME Fedwatch tool , there is an 85% chance that the Fed will enact a 25 basis points cut next week, which is likely to send markets higher. However, many other clouds also loom over the horizon heading into 2025, not least of all, the incoming administration of President-elect Donald Trump. In short, 2024 may be coming to an end, but it seems determined to go out swinging in the last three weeks.

State Rep. Flick's bills aimed to aid ambulance services, create equality in child custodyCLEVELAND (AP) — An injury-riddled season for Browns left tackle Jedrick Wills Jr. is over. His days with Cleveland may have ended as well. Wills was placed on injured reserve Saturday with a lingering right knee injury that could lead to him undergoing another surgery. A first-round draft pick in 2020, Wills, who has been inconsistent when healthy, is scheduled to become a free agent after the season. The Browns (3-9) have just five games left, starting w (9-3) on Sunday. Wills is required to spend at least four games on IR, so it’s safe to assume he won’t play again in 2024. As for where he’ll be next season, that’s anyone’s guess. Before bussing to Pittsburgh, the Browns also placed defensive tackle Maurice Hurst II (ankle) on IR and signed wide receivers Michael Woods II and Kadarius Toney to the active roster from the practice squad. Wills was benched earlier this season in favor of second-year tackle Dawand Jones. Wills, who had surgery on his knee in December, also c e a “business decision” to sit out a game because he was hurt and didn’t think he could help the team. The Browns didn’t give Wills a contract extension before this season, a sign they were likely moving on without him. Wills started 57 games in five seasons with Cleveland, which selected the former Alabama standout with the No. 10 overall pick in 2020. Wills has had flashes of being a productive player, but there have long been questions about his desire to play. Hurst got injured in Monday night’s loss in Denver. He made two starts and appeared in eight games. ___ NFL:Soccer-Dominant Brighton forced to settle for 0-0 draw with Brentford

LeBron James and Rui Hachimura were home sick. Anthony Davis was in the back getting his injured ankle treated. D’Angelo Russell and Jaxson Hayes weren’t healthy enough to participate in a full practice. And still, there was optimism. Friday marked the beginning of a stretch when the Lakers can truly unpack and get comfortable, the rigors of the NBA and its travel schedule about to slow down for the longest stretch of their season. Beginning Saturday against Sacramento, 11 of their next 14 games are in Los Angeles. Ten will be at home (one will be the Lakers’ Intuit Dome debut against the Clippers). Heading into Friday’s games around the league, the Lakers have played a conference-high 17 road games, tied with the Jazz for most in the West. Only the Pistons and the Pacers have played more road games so far this year. “We’ve played together, tried to play the right way,” JJ Redick said after practice. “I think our game plan discipline has been really good. So I like where our team is at. I like where our team is trending. “I’m going to really like it when we’re completely healthy.” Hachimura and James are questionable Saturday because of illnesses. Davis will also be listed as questionable with the ankle injury he suffered in the first quarter on Christmas. He told The Times postgame that he expected to be “fine.” Russell, who missed that game against the Warriors, was able to take part in the non-contact portions of Friday’s practice with his sprained thumb and seems on track to return against the Kings And Hayes, who has played just once since Nov. 10 because of consecutive injuries to his right ankle, also participated in some of the non-contact portions of practice. He appears close to returning after Redick termed him “day to day.” Redick said Hayes “moved well” in practice Friday, the Lakers close to adding a dynamic big back to their bench lineups. “I think offensively for us, just the rim running, the pace with which he’s able to get from one action to the next as a big. He’s really good in the half court at screening, rolling, getting back to a second action. And (Russell), with some of the lob stuff, he just, he puts pressure on the rim as a roller,” Redick said of what the Lakers have missed without Hayes. “And then defensively, he had his best stretch for us prior to being injured. He had a four or five game stretch where he was great on both ends and he was also crashing. He was getting offensive rebounds for us. So we’ve missed him.” The Lakers don’t have timetables for Christian Wood and Jared Vanderbilt, who have both yet to play this year. However, Redick said he hoped both would be back during this stretch of home schedule. Asked about potential evaluations of the roster prior to the Feb. 6. trade deadline, Redick said he thinks a complete Lakers roster is good enough to fight. “Rob (Pelinka) and I, we talk all the time, but my focus is on coaching this group and trying to maximize this group,” Redick said. ‘Frankly, I have belief that when this group is healthy, we can compete. If there’s a move to be made, there’s a move to be made, but I’m focused on this group.”WASHINGTON — President-elect Donald Trump's transition team on Tuesday signed an agreement to allow the Justice Department to conduct background checks on his nominees and appointees after a weekslong delay. The step lets Trump transition aides and future administration staffers obtain security clearances before Inauguration Day to access classified information about ongoing government programs, an essential step for a smooth transition of power. It also allows those nominees who are up for Senate confirmation to face the background checks lawmakers want before voting on them. Teams of investigators have been standing by to process clearances for Trump aides and advisers. FILE - Susie Wiles watches as Republican presidential candidate former President Donald Trump speaks at a caucus night party in Des Moines, Iowa, Jan. 15, 2024. (AP Photo/Andrew Harnik, File) Andrew Harnik "This agreement with the Department of Justice will ensure President Trump and his team are ready on Day 1 to begin enacting the America First Agenda that an overwhelming majority of our nation supported on Election Day," said Susie Wiles, Trump's designate to be White House chief of staff. The announcement came a week after the Trump transition team signed an agreement with the Biden White House to allow transition staff to coordinate with the existing federal workforce before taking office Jan. 20. The White House agreement was supposed to have been signed by Oct. 1, according to the Presidential Transition Act, and the Biden White House issued both public and private appeals for Trump's team to sign on. Listen now and subscribe: Apple Podcasts | Spotify | RSS Feed | SoundStack | All Of Our Podcasts Security clearances are required to access classified information, including on ongoing operations and threats to the nation, and the Biden White House and outside experts emphasized to Trump's team the importance of having cleared personnel before Inauguration Day so they could be fully briefed and ready to run the government. President-elect Donald Trump arrives before the launch of the sixth test flight of the SpaceX Starship rocket Tuesday, Nov. 19, 2024 in Boca Chica, Texas. (Brandon Bell/Pool via AP) Brandon Bell Republican Senators also insisted on FBI background checks for Trump's nominees before they face confirmation votes, as has been standard practice for decades. Lawmakers were particularly interested in seeing the findings of reviews into Trump's designated nominee for defense secretary, former Fox News host Pete Hegseth, and for Rep. Tulsi Gabbard to be director of national intelligence. "That's why it's so important that we have an FBI background check, a committee review of extensive questions and questionnaires, and a public hearing," Sen. Susan Collins, R-Maine, said Monday. John Thune, incoming Senate Republican leader, said the Trump team "understands there's going to have to be a thorough vetting of all these nominees." Among President-elect Donald Trump's picks are Susie Wiles for chief of staff, Florida Sen. Marco Rubio for secretary of state, former Democratic House member Tulsi Gabbard for director of national intelligence and Florida Rep. Matt Gaetz for attorney general. Evan Vucci, Associated Press Susie Wiles, 67, was a senior adviser to Trump's 2024 presidential campaign and its de facto manager. Evan Vucci, Associated Press Trump named Florida Sen. Marco Rubio to be secretary of state, making a former sharp critic his choice to be the new administration's top diplomat. Rubio, 53, is a noted hawk on China, Cuba and Iran, and was a finalist to be Trump's running mate on the Republican ticket last summer. Rubio is the vice chairman of the Senate Intelligence Committee and a member of the Senate Foreign Relations Committee. “He will be a strong Advocate for our Nation, a true friend to our Allies, and a fearless Warrior who will never back down to our adversaries,” Trump said of Rubio in a statement. The announcement punctuates the hard pivot Rubio has made with Trump, whom the senator called a “con man" during his unsuccessful campaign for the 2016 GOP presidential nomination. Their relationship improved dramatically while Trump was in the White House. And as Trump campaigned for the presidency a third time, Rubio cheered his proposals. For instance, Rubio, who more than a decade ago helped craft immigration legislation that included a path to citizenship for people in the U.S. illegally, now supports Trump's plan to use the U.S. military for mass deportations. Wilfredo Lee, Associated Press Pete Hegseth, 44, is a co-host of Fox News Channel’s “Fox & Friends Weekend” and has been a contributor with the network since 2014, where he developed a friendship with Trump, who made regular appearances on the show. Hegseth lacks senior military or national security experience. If confirmed by the Senate, he would inherit the top job during a series of global crises — ranging from Russia’s war in Ukraine and the ongoing attacks in the Middle East by Iranian proxies to the push for a cease-fire between Israel, Hamas and Hezbollah and escalating worries about the growing alliance between Russia and North Korea. Hegseth is also the author of “The War on Warriors: Behind the Betrayal of the Men Who Keep Us Free,” published earlier this year. George Walker IV, Associated Press Trump tapped Pam Bondi, 59, to be attorney general after U.S. Rep. Matt Gaetz withdrew his name from consideration. She was Florida's first female attorney general, serving between 2011 and 2019. She also was on Trump’s legal team during his first impeachment trial in 2020. Considered a loyalist, she served as part of a Trump-allied outside group that helped lay the groundwork for his future administration called the America First Policy Institute. Bondi was among a group of Republicans who showed up to support Trump at his hush money criminal trial in New York that ended in May with a conviction on 34 felony counts. A fierce defender of Trump, she also frequently appears on Fox News and has been a critic of the criminal cases against him. Derik Hamilton Trump picked South Dakota Gov. Kristi Noem, a well-known conservative who faced sharp criticism for telling a story in her memoir about shooting a rambunctious dog, to lead an agency crucial to the president-elect’s hardline immigration agenda. Noem used her two terms leading a tiny state to vault to a prominent position in Republican politics. South Dakota is usually a political afterthought. But during the COVID-19 pandemic, Noem did not order restrictions that other states had issued and instead declared her state “open for business.” Trump held a fireworks rally at Mount Rushmore in July 2020 in one of the first large gatherings of the pandemic. She takes over a department with a sprawling mission. In addition to key immigration agencies, the Department of Homeland Security oversees natural disaster response, the U.S. Secret Service, and Transportation Security Administration agents who work at airports. Matt Rourke, Associated Press The governor of North Dakota, who was once little-known outside his state, Burgum is a former Republican presidential primary contender who endorsed Trump, and spent months traveling to drum up support for him, after dropping out of the race. Burgum was a serious contender to be Trump’s vice presidential choice this summer. The two-term governor was seen as a possible pick because of his executive experience and business savvy. Burgum also has close ties to deep-pocketed energy industry CEOs. Trump made the announcement about Burgum joining his incoming administration while addressing a gala at his Mar-a-Lago club, and said a formal statement would be coming the following day. In comments to reporters before Trump took the stage, Burgum said that, in recent years, the power grid is deteriorating in many parts of the country, which he said could raise national security concerns but also drive up prices enough to increase inflation. “There's just a sense of urgency, and a sense of understanding in the Trump administration,” Burgum said. AP Photo/Alex Brandon Robert F. Kennedy Jr. ran for president as a Democrat, than as an independent, and then endorsed Trump . He's the son of Democratic icon Robert Kennedy, who was assassinated during his own presidential campaign. The nomination of Kennedy to lead the Department of Health and Human Services alarmed people who are concerned about his record of spreading unfounded fears about vaccines . For example, he has long advanced the debunked idea that vaccines cause autism. Evan Vucci, Associated Press Scott Bessent, 62, is a former George Soros money manager and an advocate for deficit reduction. He's the founder of hedge fund Key Square Capital Management, after having worked on-and-off for Soros Fund Management since 1991. If confirmed by the Senate, he would be the nation’s first openly gay treasury secretary. He told Bloomberg in August that he decided to join Trump’s campaign in part to attack the mounting U.S. national debt. That would include slashing government programs and other spending. “This election cycle is the last chance for the U.S. to grow our way out of this mountain of debt without becoming a sort of European-style socialist democracy,” he said then. Matt Kelley, Associated Press Oregon Republican U.S. Rep. Lori Chavez-DeRemer narrowly lost her reelection bid this month, but received strong backing from union members in her district. As a potential labor secretary, she would oversee the Labor Department’s workforce, its budget and put forth priorities that impact workers’ wages, health and safety, ability to unionize, and employer’s rights to fire employers, among other responsibilities. Chavez-DeRemer is one of few House Republicans to endorse the “Protecting the Right to Organize” or PRO Act would allow more workers to conduct organizing campaigns and would add penalties for companies that violate workers’ rights. The act would also weaken “right-to-work” laws that allow employees in more than half the states to avoid participating in or paying dues to unions that represent workers at their places of employment. Andrew Harnik, Associated Press Scott Turner is a former NFL player and White House aide. He ran the White House Opportunity and Revitalization Council during Trump’s first term in office. Trump, in a statement, credited Turner, the highest-ranking Black person he’s yet selected for his administration, with “helping to lead an Unprecedented Effort that Transformed our Country’s most distressed communities.” Andrew Harnik, Associated Press Sean Duffy is a former House member from Wisconsin who was one of Trump's most visible defenders on cable news. Duffy served in the House for nearly nine years, sitting on the Financial Services Committee and chairing the subcommittee on insurance and housing. He left Congress in 2019 for a TV career and has been the host of “The Bottom Line” on Fox Business. Before entering politics, Duffy was a reality TV star on MTV, where he met his wife, “Fox and Friends Weekend” co-host Rachel Campos-Duffy. They have nine children. Jacquelyn Martin, Associated Press A campaign donor and CEO of Denver-based Liberty Energy, Write is a vocal advocate of oil and gas development, including fracking — a key pillar of Trump’s quest to achieve U.S. “energy dominance” in the global market. Wright also has been one of the industry’s loudest voices against efforts to fight climate change. He said the climate movement around the world is “collapsing under its own weight.” The Energy Department is responsible for advancing energy, environmental and nuclear security of the United States. Wright also won support from influential conservatives, including oil and gas tycoon Harold Hamm. Hamm, executive chairman of Oklahoma-based Continental Resources, a major shale oil company, is a longtime Trump supporter and adviser who played a key role on energy issues in Trump’s first term. Andy Cross, The Denver Post via AP President-elect Donald Trump tapped billionaire professional wrestling mogul Linda McMahon to be secretary of the Education Department, tasked with overseeing an agency Trump promised to dismantle. McMahon led the Small Business Administration during Trump’s initial term from 2017 to 2019 and twice ran unsuccessfully as a Republican for the U.S. Senate in Connecticut. She’s seen as a relative unknown in education circles, though she expressed support for charter schools and school choice. She served on the Connecticut Board of Education for a year starting in 2009 and has spent years on the board of trustees for Sacred Heart University in Connecticut. Manuel Balce Ceneta, Associated Press Brooke Rollins, who graduated from Texas A&M University with a degree in agricultural development, is a longtime Trump associate who served as White House domestic policy chief during his first presidency. The 52-year-old is president and CEO of the America First Policy Institute, a group helping to lay the groundwork for a second Trump administration. She previously served as an aide to former Texas Gov. Rick Perry and ran a think tank, the Texas Public Policy Foundation. Evan Vucci Trump chose Howard Lutnick, head of brokerage and investment bank Cantor Fitzgerald and a cryptocurrency enthusiast, as his nominee for commerce secretary, a position in which he'd have a key role in carrying out Trump's plans to raise and enforce tariffs. Trump made the announcement Tuesday on his social media platform, Truth Social. Lutnick is a co-chair of Trump’s transition team, along with Linda McMahon, the former wrestling executive who previously led Trump’s Small Business Administration. Both are tasked with putting forward candidates for key roles in the next administration. The nomination would put Lutnick in charge of a sprawling Cabinet agency that is involved in funding new computer chip factories, imposing trade restrictions, releasing economic data and monitoring the weather. It is also a position in which connections to CEOs and the wider business community are crucial. AP Photo/Evan Vucci Doug Collins is a former Republican congressman from Georgia who gained recognition for defending Trump during his first impeachment trial, which centered on U.S. assistance for Ukraine. Trump was impeached for urging Ukraine to investigate Joe Biden in 2019 during the Democratic presidential nomination, but he was acquitted by the Senate. Collins has also served in the armed forces himself and is currently a chaplain in the United States Air Force Reserve Command. "We must take care of our brave men and women in uniform, and Doug will be a great advocate for our Active Duty Servicemembers, Veterans, and Military Families to ensure they have the support they need," Trump said in a statement about nominating Collins to lead the Department of Veterans Affairs. John Bazemore, Associated Press Karoline Leavitt, 27, was Trump's campaign press secretary and currently a spokesperson for his transition. She would be the youngest White House press secretary in history. The White House press secretary typically serves as the public face of the administration and historically has held daily briefings for the press corps. Leavitt, a New Hampshire native, was a spokesperson for MAGA Inc., a super PAC supporting Trump, before joining his 2024 campaign. In 2022, she ran for Congress in New Hampshire, winning a 10-way Republican primary before losing to Democratic Rep. Chris Pappas. Leavitt worked in the White House press office during Trump's first term before she became communications director for New York Republican Rep. Elise Stefanik, Trump's choice for U.S. ambassador to the United Nations. Ted Shaffrey, Associated Press Former Hawaii Rep. Tulsi Gabbard has been tapped by Trump to be director of national intelligence, keeping with the trend to stock his Cabinet with loyal personalities rather than veteran professionals in their requisite fields. Gabbard, 43, was a Democratic House member who unsuccessfully sought the party's 2020 presidential nomination before leaving the party in 2022. She endorsed Trump in August and campaigned often with him this fall. “I know Tulsi will bring the fearless spirit that has defined her illustrious career to our Intelligence Community,” Trump said in a statement. Gabbard, who has served in the Army National Guard for more than two decades, deploying to Iraq and Kuwait, would come to the role as somewhat of an outsider compared to her predecessor. The current director, Avril Haines, was confirmed by the Senate in 2021 following several years in a number of top national security and intelligence positions. Evan Vucci, Associated Press Trump has picked John Ratcliffe, a former Texas congressman who served as director of national intelligence during his first administration, to be director of the Central Intelligence Agency in his next. Ratcliffe was director of national intelligence during the final year and a half of Trump's first term, leading the U.S. government's spy agencies during the coronavirus pandemic. “I look forward to John being the first person ever to serve in both of our Nation's highest Intelligence positions,” Trump said in a statement, calling him a “fearless fighter for the Constitutional Rights of all Americans” who would ensure “the Highest Levels of National Security, and PEACE THROUGH STRENGTH.” Manuel Balce Ceneta, Associated Press Trump has chosen former New York Rep. Lee Zeldin to serve as his pick to lead the Environmental Protection Agency . Zeldin does not appear to have any experience in environmental issues, but is a longtime supporter of the former president. The 44-year-old former U.S. House member from New York wrote on X , “We will restore US energy dominance, revitalize our auto industry to bring back American jobs, and make the US the global leader of AI.” “We will do so while protecting access to clean air and water,” he added. During his campaign, Trump often attacked the Biden administration's promotion of electric vehicles, and incorrectly referring to a tax credit for EV purchases as a government mandate. Trump also often told his audiences during the campaign his administration would “Drill, baby, drill,” referring to his support for expanded petroleum exploration. In a statement, Trump said Zeldin “will ensure fair and swift deregulatory decisions that will be enacted in a way to unleash the power of American businesses, while at the same time maintaining the highest environmental standards, including the cleanest air and water on the planet.” Matt Rourke, Associated Press Trump has named Brendan Carr, the senior Republican on the Federal Communications Commission, as the new chairman of the agency tasked with regulating broadcasting, telecommunications and broadband. Carr is a longtime member of the commission and served previously as the FCC’s general counsel. He has been unanimously confirmed by the Senate three times and was nominated by both Trump and President Joe Biden to the commission. Carr made past appearances on “Fox News Channel," including when he decried Democratic Vice President Kamala Harris' pre-Election Day appearance on “Saturday Night Live.” He wrote an op-ed last month defending a satellite company owned by Trump supporter Elon Musk. Jonathan Newton - pool, ASSOCIATED PRESS Rep. Elise Stefanik is a representative from New York and one of Trump's staunchest defenders going back to his first impeachment. Elected to the House in 2014, Stefanik was selected by her GOP House colleagues as House Republican Conference chair in 2021, when former Wyoming Rep. Liz Cheney was removed from the post after publicly criticizing Trump for falsely claiming he won the 2020 election. Stefanik, 40, has served in that role ever since as the third-ranking member of House leadership. Stefanik’s questioning of university presidents over antisemitism on their campuses helped lead to two of those presidents resigning, further raising her national profile. If confirmed, she would represent American interests at the U.N. as Trump vows to end the war waged by Russia against Ukraine begun in 2022. He has also called for peace as Israel continues its offensive against Hamas in Gaza and its invasion of Lebanon to target Hezbollah. Jose Luis Magana, Associated Press President-elect Donald Trump says he's chosen former acting Attorney General Matt Whitaker to serve as U.S. ambassador to NATO. Trump has expressed skepticism about the Western military alliance for years. Trump said in a statement Wednesday that Whitaker is “a strong warrior and loyal Patriot” who “will ensure the United States’ interests are advanced and defended” and “strengthen relationships with our NATO Allies, and stand firm in the face of threats to Peace and Stability.” The choice of Whitaker as the nation’s representative to the North Atlantic Treaty Organization is an unusual one, given his background is as a lawyer and not in foreign policy. Andrew Harnik, Associated Press A Republican congressman from Michigan who served from 1993 to 2011, Hoekstra was ambassador to the Netherlands during Trump's first term. “In my Second Term, Pete will help me once again put AMERICA FIRST,” Trump said in a statement announcing his choice. “He did an outstanding job as United States Ambassador to the Netherlands during our first four years, and I am confident that he will continue to represent our Country well in this new role.” Paul Sancya, Associated Press Trump will nominate former Arkansas Gov. Mike Huckabee to be ambassador to Israel. Huckabee is a staunch defender of Israel and his intended nomination comes as Trump has promised to align U.S. foreign policy more closely with Israel's interests as it wages wars against the Iran-backed Hamas and Hezbollah. “He loves Israel, and likewise the people of Israel love him,” Trump said in a statement. “Mike will work tirelessly to bring about peace in the Middle East.” Huckabee, who ran unsuccessfully for the Republican presidential nomination in 2008 and 2016, has been a popular figure among evangelical Christian conservatives, many of whom support Israel due to Old Testament writings that Jews are God’s chosen people and that Israel is their rightful homeland. Trump has been praised by some in this important Republican voting bloc for moving the U.S. embassy in Israel from Tel Aviv to Jerusalem. Oded Balilty, Associated Press Trump on Tuesday named real estate investor Steven Witkoff to be special envoy to the Middle East. The 67-year-old Witkoff is the president-elect's golf partner and was golfing with him at Trump's club in West Palm Beach, Florida, on Sept. 15, when the former president was the target of a second attempted assassination. Witkoff “is a Highly Respected Leader in Business and Philanthropy,” Trump said of Witkoff in a statement. “Steve will be an unrelenting Voice for PEACE, and make us all proud." Trump also named Witkoff co-chair, with former Georgia Sen. Kelly Loeffler, of his inaugural committee. Evan Vucci, Associated Press Trump said Wednesday that he will nominate Gen. Keith Kellogg to serve as assistant to the president and special envoy for Ukraine and Russia. Kellogg, a retired Army lieutenant general who has long been Trump’s top adviser on defense issues, served as National Security Advisor to Trump's former Vice President Mike Pence. For the America First Policy Institute, one of several groups formed after Trump left office to help lay the groundwork for the next Republican administration, Kellogg in April wrote that “bringing the Russia-Ukraine war to a close will require strong, America First leadership to deliver a peace deal and immediately end the hostilities between the two warring parties.” (AP Photo/Mariam Zuhaib) AP Photo/Mariam Zuhaib Trump asked Rep. Michael Waltz, R-Fla., a retired Army National Guard officer and war veteran, to be his national security adviser, Trump announced in a statement Tuesday. The move puts Waltz in the middle of national security crises, ranging from efforts to provide weapons to Ukraine and worries about the growing alliance between Russia and North Korea to the persistent attacks in the Middle East by Iran proxies and the push for a cease-fire between Israel and Hamas and Hezbollah. “Mike has been a strong champion of my America First Foreign Policy agenda,” Trump's statement said, "and will be a tremendous champion of our pursuit of Peace through Strength!” Waltz is a three-term GOP congressman from east-central Florida. He served multiple tours in Afghanistan and also worked in the Pentagon as a policy adviser when Donald Rumsfeld and Robert Gates were defense chiefs. He is considered hawkish on China, and called for a U.S. boycott of the 2022 Winter Olympics in Beijing due to its involvement in the origin of COVID-19 and its mistreatment of the minority Muslim Uighur population. Ted Shaffrey, Associated Press Stephen Miller, an immigration hardliner , was a vocal spokesperson during the presidential campaign for Trump's priority of mass deportations. The 39-year-old was a senior adviser during Trump's first administration. Miller has been a central figure in some of Trump's policy decisions, notably his move to separate thousands of immigrant families. Trump argued throughout the campaign that the nation's economic, national security and social priorities could be met by deporting people who are in the United States illegally. Since Trump left office in 2021, Miller has served as the president of America First Legal, an organization made up of former Trump advisers aimed at challenging the Biden administration, media companies, universities and others over issues such as free speech and national security. Evan Vucci, Associated Press Thomas Homan, 62, has been tasked with Trump’s top priority of carrying out the largest deportation operation in the nation’s history. Homan, who served under Trump in his first administration leading U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement, was widely expected to be offered a position related to the border, an issue Trump made central to his campaign. Though Homan has insisted such a massive undertaking would be humane, he has long been a loyal supporter of Trump's policy proposals, suggesting at a July conference in Washington that he would be willing to "run the biggest deportation operation this country’s ever seen.” Democrats have criticized Homan for his defending Trump's “zero tolerance” policy on border crossings during his first administration, which led to the separation of thousands of parents and children seeking asylum at the border. John Bazemore, Associated Press Dr. Mehmet Oz, 64, is a former heart surgeon who hosted “The Dr. Oz Show,” a long-running daytime television talk show. He ran unsuccessfully for the U.S. Senate as the Republican nominee in 2022 and is an outspoken supporter of Trump, who endorsed Oz's bid for elected office. Matt Rourke, Associated Press Elon Musk, left, and Vivek Ramaswamy speak before Republican presidential nominee former President Donald Trump at an Oct. 27 campaign rally at Madison Square Garden in New York. Trump on Tuesday said Musk and former Republican presidential candidate Ramaswamy will lead a new “Department of Government Efficiency" — which is not, despite the name, a government agency. The acronym “DOGE” is a nod to Musk's favorite cryptocurrency, dogecoin. Trump said Musk and Ramaswamy will work from outside the government to offer the White House “advice and guidance” and will partner with the Office of Management and Budget to “drive large scale structural reform, and create an entrepreneurial approach to Government never seen before.” He added the move would shock government systems. It's not clear how the organization will operate. Musk, owner of X and CEO of Tesla and SpaceX, has been a constant presence at Mar-a-Lago since Trump won the presidential election. Ramaswamy suspended his campaign in January and threw his support behind Trump. Trump said the two will “pave the way for my Administration to dismantle Government Bureaucracy, slash excess regulations, cut wasteful expenditures, and restructure Federal Agencies.” Evan Vucci, Associated Press photos Russell Vought held the position during Trump’s first presidency. After Trump’s initial term ended, Vought founded the Center for Renewing America, a think tank that describes its mission as “renew a consensus of America as a nation under God.” Vought was closely involved with Project 2025, a conservative blueprint for Trump’s second term that he tried to distance himself from during the campaign. Vought has also previously worked as the executive and budget director for the Republican Study Committee, a caucus for conservative House Republicans. He also worked at Heritage Action, the political group tied to The Heritage Foundation, a conservative think tank. Evan Vucci, Associated Press Dan Scavino, deputy chief of staff Scavino, whom Trump's transition referred to in a statement as one of “Trump's longest serving and most trusted aides,” was a senior adviser to Trump's 2024 campaign, as well as his 2016 and 2020 campaigns. He will be deputy chief of staff and assistant to the president. Scavino had run Trump's social media profile in the White House during his first administration. He was also held in contempt of Congress in 2022 after a month-long refusal to comply with a subpoena from the House committee’s investigation into the Jan. 6, 2021, attack on the U.S. Capitol. James Blair, deputy chief of staff Blair was political director for Trump's 2024 campaign and for the Republican National Committee. He will be deputy chief of staff for legislative, political and public affairs and assistant to the president. Blair was key to Trump's economic messaging during his winning White House comeback campaign this year, a driving force behind the candidate's “Trump can fix it” slogan and his query to audiences this fall if they were better off than four years ago. Taylor Budowich, deputy chief of staff Budowich is a veteran Trump campaign aide who launched and directed Make America Great Again, Inc., a super PAC that supported Trump's 2024 campaign. He will be deputy chief of staff for communications and personnel and assistant to the president. Budowich also had served as a spokesman for Trump after his presidency. William McGinley, White House counsel McGinley was White House Cabinet secretary during Trump's first administration, and was outside legal counsel for the Republican National Committee's election integrity effort during the 2024 campaign. In a statement, Trump called McGinley “a smart and tenacious lawyer who will help me advance our America First agenda, while fighting for election integrity and against the weaponization of law enforcement.” Jay Bhattacharya, National Institutes of Health Trump has chosen Dr. Jay Bhattacharya to lead the National Institutes of Health. Bhattacharya is a physician and professor at Stanford University School of Medicine, and is a critic of pandemic lockdowns and vaccine mandates. He promoted the idea of herd immunity during the pandemic, arguing that people at low risk should live normally while building up immunity to COVID-19 through infection. The National Institutes of Health funds medical research through competitive grants to researchers at institutions throughout the nation. NIH also conducts its own research with thousands of scientists working at its labs in Bethesda, Maryland. Jamieson Greer, U.S. trade representative Kevin Hassett, Director of the White House National Economic Council Trump is turning to two officials with experience navigating not only Washington but the key issues of income taxes and tariffs as he fills out his economic team. He announced he has chosen international trade attorney Jamieson Greer to be his U.S. trade representative and Kevin Hassett as director of the White House National Economic Council. While Trump has in several cases nominated outsiders to key posts, these picks reflect a recognition that his reputation will likely hinge on restoring the public’s confidence in the economy. Trump said in a statement that Greer was instrumental in his first term in imposing tariffs on China and others and replacing the trade agreement with Canada and Mexico, “therefore making it much better for American Workers.” Hassett, 62, served in the first Trump term as chairman of the Council of Economic Advisers. He has a doctorate from the University of Pennsylvania and worked at the right-leaning American Enterprise Institute before joining the Trump White House in 2017. Jose Luis Magana, Associated Press

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Syria's de facto leader says it could take up to 4 years to hold electionsBiden opens final White House holiday season with turkey pardons and first lady gets Christmas tree WASHINGTON (AP) — President Joe Biden has kicked off his final holiday season at the White House, issuing the traditional reprieve to two turkeys who will bypass the Thanksgiving table to live out their days in Minnesota. The president welcomed 2,500 guests under sunny skies as he cracked jokes about the fates of “Peach” and “Blossom.” He also sounded wistful tones about the last weeks of his presidency. Separately, first lady Jill Biden received the delivery of the official White House Christmas tree. And the Bidens are traveling to New York later Monday for an early holiday celebration with members of the Coast Guard. Couple charged in ring suspected of stealing $1 million in Lululemon clothes MINNEAPOLIS (AP) — A Connecticut couple has been charged in Minnesota with being part of a shoplifting ring suspected of stealing around $1 million in goods across the country from upscale athletic wear retailer Lululemon.Jadion Anthony Richards and Akwele Nickeisha Lawes-Richards, both of Danbury, Connecticut, were charged this month with one felony count of organized retail theft. Both went free last week after posting bail bonds of $100,000 for him and $30,000 for her. They're also suspected in thefts from Lululemon stores in Colorado, Utah, New York and Connecticut. They're due back in court next month. Formula 1 expands grid to add General Motors' Cadillac brand and new American team for 2026 season LAS VEGAS (AP) — Formula 1 will expand the grid in 2026 to make room for an American team that is partnered with General Motors. The approval ends years of wrangling that launched a federal investigation into why Colorado-based Liberty Media, would not approve the team initially started by Michael Andretti, who has since stepped aside. The 11th team will be called Cadillac F1 and be run by new Andretti Global majority owners Dan Towriss and Mark Walter. The team will use Ferrari engines its first two years until GM has a Cadillac engine built for competition in time for the 2028 season. US goalkeeper Alyssa Naeher is retiring from international soccer U.S. women’s national team goalkeeper Alyssa Naeher is retiring from international soccer. Naeher is on the team’s roster for a pair of upcoming matches in Europe but those will be her last after a full 11 years playing for the United States. Naeher was on the U.S. team that won the Women’s World Cup in 2019 and the gold medal at this year's Olympics in France. She’s the only U.S. goalkeeper to earn a shutout in both a World Cup and an Olympic final. Bah, humbug! Vandal smashes Ebenezer Scrooge's tombstone used in 'A Christmas Carol' movie LONDON (AP) — If life imitates art, a vandal in the English countryside may be haunted by The Ghost of Christmas Yet to Come. Police in the town of Shrewsbury are investigating how a tombstone at the fictional grave of Ebenezer Scrooge was destroyed. The movie prop used in the 1984 adaption of Charles Dickens' “A Christmas Carol” had become a tourist attraction. The film starred George C. Scott as the cold-hearted curmudgeon who is visited by three ghosts on Christmas Eve who show him what will become of his life if he doesn’t become a better person. West Mercia Police say the stone was vandalized in the past week. Megachurch founder T.D. Jakes suffers health incident during sermon at Dallas church DALLAS (AP) — The founder of Dallas-based megachurch The Potter's House, Bishop T.D. Jakes, was hospitalized after suffering what the church called a “slight health incident.” Jakes was speaking to churchgoers after he sat down and began trembling as several people gathered around him Sunday at the church. Jakes' daughter Sarah Jakes Roberts and her husband Touré Roberts said in a statement on social media late Sunday that Jakes was improving. The 67-year-old Jakes founded the non-denominational The Potter's House in 1996 and his website says it now has more than 30,000 members with campuses in Fort Worth and Frisco, Texas; and in Denver. At the crossroads of news and opinion, 'Morning Joe' hosts grapple with aftermath of Trump meeting The reaction of those who defended “Morning Joe” hosts Joe Scarborough and Mika Brzezinski for meeting with President-elect Trump sounds almost quaint in the days of opinionated journalism. Doesn't it makes sense, they said, for hosts of a political news show to meet with such an important figure? But given how “Morning Joe” has attacked Trump, its viewers felt insulted. Many reacted quickly by staying away. It all reflects the broader trend of opinion crowding out traditional journalist in today's marketplace, and the expectations that creates among consumers. By mid-week, the show's audience was less than two-thirds what it has typically been this year. Pilot dies in plane crash in remote woods of New York, puppy found alive WINDHAM, N.Y. (AP) — Authorities say a pilot and at least one dog he was transporting died when a small plane crashed in the snowy woods of the Catskill Mountains, though a puppy on the flight was found alive with two broken legs. The Greene County sheriff’s office says Seuk Kim of Springfield, Virginia, was flying from Maryland to Albany, New York, when the plane crashed at about 6:10 p.m. Sunday in a remote area. Officials believe the pilot died from the impact. The surviving dog was hospitalized, while a third dog was not located. The flight was connected with a not-for-profit group that transports rescue animals. Warren Buffett gives away another $1.1B and plans for distributing his $147B fortune after his death OMAHA, Neb. (AP) — Investor Warren Buffett renewed his Thanksgiving tradition of giving by handing out more than $1.1 billion of Berkshire Hathaway stock to four of his family's foundations Monday, and he offered new details about who will be handing out the rest of his fortune after his death. Buffett has said previously that his three kids will distribute his remaining $147.4 billion fortune in the 10 years after his death, but now he has also designated successors for them because it’s possible that Buffett’s children could die before giving it all away. Buffett said he has no regrets about his decision to start giving away his fortune in 2006. Pop star Ed Sheeran apologizes to Man United boss Ruben Amorim for crashing interview MANCHESTER, England (AP) — British pop star Ed Sheeran has apologized to Ruben Amorim after inadvertently interrupting the new Manchester United head coach during a live television interview. Amorim was talking on Sky Sports after United’s 1-1 draw with Ipswich on Sunday when Sheeran walked up to embrace analyst Jamie Redknapp. The interview was paused before Redknapp told the pop star to “come and say hello in a minute.” Sheeran is a lifelong Ipswich fan and holds a minority stake in the club. He was pictured celebrating after Omari Hutchinson’s equalizing goal in the game at Portman Road.MISSOULA, Mont. (AP) — Marcus Adams Jr.'s 19 points helped CSU Northridge defeat Denver 89-60 on Monday night. Adams also added 11 rebounds for the Matadors (5-1). Keonte Jones added 17 points while shooting 4 of 6 from the field and 8 for 8 from the line and also had five rebounds and three blocks. PJ Fuller shot 2 of 8 from the field, including 0 for 4 from 3-point range, and went 6 for 6 from the line to finish with 10 points. Nicholas Shogbonyo led the way for the Pioneers (3-4) with 15 points. Pedro Lopez-Sanvicente added 10 points and two blocks for Denver. The Associated Press created this story using technology provided by and data from .

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The expanded Big Ten is poised to be a major player in this season's College Football Playoff. The 18-team conference had three of the top-four teams in the AP poll this week — No. 1 Oregon, No. 2 Ohio State and No. 4 Penn State. A one-loss Indiana team is ranked 10th but is still very much a contender to make the playoff, given how many Southeastern Conference teams have three defeats or more. Indiana's rise has been perhaps the Big Ten's biggest story this season. Much of the spotlight was on newcomers Oregon, Southern California, UCLA and Washington, but aside from the top-ranked Ducks, that foursome has struggled to impress. Meanwhile, the Hoosiers won their first 10 games under new coach Curt Cignetti before losing at Ohio State last weekend. Oregon beat Ohio State 32-31 back in October, and if the Buckeyes beat rival Michigan this weekend, they'll earn a rematch with the Ducks for the Big Ten title. People are also reading... And it's entirely possible another matchup between those two teams awaits in the CFP. Star power Dillon Gabriel has quarterbacked Oregon to an unbeaten record, throwing for 3,066 yards and 22 touchdowns in 11 games. But don't overlook Iowa's Kaleb Johnson and his 21 rushing TDs, and quarterback Kurtis Rourke has been a big part of Indiana's improvement. Penn State's Abdul Carter has eight sacks and two forced fumbles and could be one of the top edge rushers drafted this year. Going bowling Oregon (11-0, 8-0), Ohio State (10-1, 7-1), Penn State (10-1, 7-1), Indiana (10-1, 7-1), Illinois (8-3, 5-3), Iowa (7-4, 5-3), Michigan (6-5, 4-4), Minnesota (6-5, 4-4), Washington (6-5, 4-4), Southern California (6-5, 4-5), Nebraska (6-5, 3-5) and Rutgers (6-5, 3-5) have already reached the six-win mark for bowl eligibility. Michigan State (5-6, 3-5) and Wisconsin (5-6, 3-5) can join them. Hot seats There may not be many firings in general at the top level of college football. The prospect of sharing revenue with athletes in the future might lead schools to be more judicious about shedding one coach and hiring a new one. Who should be most worried in the Big Ten? Well, Lincoln Riley is struggling to stay above .500 in his third season at USC. Purdue is 1-10, but coach Ryan Walters is only in his second season. Maryland's Mike Locksley has been there six years and his Terrapins are 4-7, but this was his first real step backward after guiding the team to three straight bowl wins. Cignetti has shown it is possible for a coaching change to push a previously moribund program to some impressive heights in a short amount of time — but the improvement has been more incremental at Michigan State following Jonathan Smith's arrival. Sherrone Moore wasn't a completely unknown commodity at Michigan after he won some massive games in place of a suspended Jim Harbaugh last year. But in his first season completely at the helm, the Wolverines have declined significantly following their national title a season ago. Youth movement The Big Ten is home to one of the most dynamic freshmen in the country in Ohio State receiver Jeremiah Smith. He has 52 catches for 899 yards and nine touchdowns. Highly touted quarterback Dylan Raiola has teamed up with fellow freshman Jacory Barney (49 catches) to lead Nebraska to bowl eligibility. Recruiting watch Ohio State is on track to land the Big Ten's top class, according to 247 Sports, but the big news recently was quarterback Bryce Underwood flipping from LSU to Michigan. If the Wolverines do in fact keep Underwood in his home state, that would be a big development for Moore. Get local news delivered to your inbox!Obie Okoye: Empowering Communities through technology, innovation

Inside Conor McGregor’s 15-year relationship with Dee Devlin, from sharing four kids to UFC star’s civil rape caseNone

US News Today Live Updates on December 30, 2024 : Panama President Jose Raul Mulino slams Donald Trump’s claims of Chinese control over Panama CanalTrump picks Pam Bondi for next attorney generalDaniel Jones isn't technically free to sign with any NFL team he wants just yet, but that should be the case come Monday, Nov. 25. The New York Giants released their long-time quarterback, who started 69 games during his six-year tenure with the franchise, on Friday. The team did so less than two years after inking Jones to a four-year, $160 million contract. Adam Schefter of ESPN reported Saturday that Jones should clear waivers by Monday and will likely get snapped up quickly thereafter. However, Schefter added that there are specific stipulations Jones will seek, even though he is unlikely to find a starting gig from the jump. Jasen Vinlove-Imagn Images Jones, who was officially waived Saturday by the Giants, is expected to have multiple options but likely will prefer to finish this season on a playoff-contending team, where he will be involved in big games, rather than going to a meandering quarterback-needy team not remotely in playoff contention, according to sources. Multiple playoff-contending teams are likely to inquire about Jones and his level of interest, but it will not be long before Jones is finishing out the season somewhere other than New York. Jones makes the most sense as a backup on a team without a great option after QB1, which should bring the Miami Dolphins firmly into the mix. Miami is on a two-game winning streak and has moved back to 4-6, with the 3-8 New England Patriots coming to town on Sunday. The Dolphins currently sit ninth in the AFC playoff picture , but are beginning to look closer to the league's best offense, which they were in 2023 with a healthy Tua Tagovailoa the entire year. © Kirby Lee-Imagn Images Jones won't get on the field if Tagovailoa stays healthy, but that is a precarious bet for Miami to make given its QB's recent history of serious head trauma. The Dolphins clearly had zero viable plans behind Tagovailoa earlier this year, as three different backups floundered in his absence, during which the team was able to win just one game. There is no guarantee that Jones can lead the offense as effectively as a healthy Tagovailoa. But he does have a big arm, he can push the football downfield to the Dolphins' speedy playmakers on the edge and he adds elements of size, sturdiness and scrambling capability that Tagovailoa simply can't match. Jones is likely to be available at a more than reasonable price, perhaps even a pro-rated league minimum deal or a little bit above that, for the remainder of 2024. As such, the Dolphins brass should already be on the line ringing the 27-year-old signal caller ahead of his impending free agency. Related: Tua Tagovailoa Addresses Scary Decision in Dolphins-Rams

The air quality in the Capital deteriorated to the “severe” zone again on Sunday, after the air quality index (AQI) over the past day provided a much-needed respite from a four-day streak of “severe” AQI from last Tuesday to Friday, according to the Central Pollution Control Board’s (CPCB’s) daily air bulletin. With an average 24-hour AQI reading of 409 recorded on the day, Delhi clocked five days of “severe” air in a six-day period, marking the highest such streak since six consecutive days of “severe” air were clocked in December 2021. Experts attributed the dropping air quality, observed since last Sunday, to a decrease in wind speed. “The decrease in wind speed aided the already accumulating levels of pollution in Delhi , leading to ‘severe’ air days. When wind speed is slow, dispersion of pollutants becomes hard because pollutants keep moving in a circulatory motion. They heat up from the heat emitted by the earth’s surface, get lighter and move upwards, and then cool down and come down to the surface again. The cycle goes on,” said Mukesh Khare, an expert on air pollution from the Indian Institute of Technology (IIT). CPCB classifies AQI between 0 and 50 as “good”, between 51 and 100 as “satisfactory”, between 101 and 200 as “moderate”, between 201 and 300 as “poor”, between 301 and 400 as “very poor”, and over 400 as “severe”. ALSO READ | Scented candles, home fragrances are bad news for indoor air quality! Study explains why The Capital’s 24-hour average AQI was 370 (“very poor”) at the same time on Saturday, which was an improvement from AQIs of 429 (“severe”) recorded on Friday, 451 (“severe plus”) on Thursday, 445 (“severe”) on Wednesday and 433 (“severe”) on Tuesday. According to a forecast by the Air Quality Early Warning System (AQEWS) for Delhi, the air quality is likely to be back in “very poor” by Monday. “The air quality is likely to be in very poor category from Monday to Wednesday. The outlook for subsequent six days is that the air quality is likely to be in very poor to poor category,” the AQEWS issued bulletin on Sunday evening said. Delhi is, however, expected to be impacted by an active western disturbance from December 27, which may further improve air quality, according to experts. ALSO READ | U.P. to add 193 new air quality monitoring stations Mahesh Palawat, vice president at Skymet, said, “The western disturbance is expected to cause widespread light to moderate rain, along with thundershowers in some isolated places. It is likely to bring down the pollution levels as a result.” However, Khare contended that rain would provide a very short-term relief, if not accompanied by wind of high speed. “Rain will initially wash out the pollutants and we will likely see an immediate improvement in the AQI. However, if the wind speed does not pick up significantly, we will be back to degrading levels of pollution again,” Khare added.Organigram: Long Term Growth Improving With International And Domestic Cannabis Expansion (Rating Upgrade)

I visited UK’s strictest pub... there’s a no phone policy & coats go on a hook – but one rule went too farW orking with a designer is an exciting opportunity to take your design dreams to the next level. A designer’s role is to help you think outside the box and arrive at a design destination that you might not have otherwise traveled. A client-designer relationship is like a dance. We’re happy to take the lead, but if both dancers know the footwork, generally things can progress a little more in step. If you’re unsure of how to begin this process, you can do a little bit of prep work prior to meeting your designer that will help your design meetings run smoothly. Before you meet with your designer, think through these points: Know what you like (and what you don’t) If you know you hate red, it’s OK to say it. We love hearing what you don’t like just as much as what you do. It makes the process go so much more smoothly. When you are familiar with and can articulate what you like and don’t like, your designer can more quickly and accurately identify the right design concept for your space. Be realistic about your lifestyle When meeting with you, we might ask questions about components of your lifestyle, how your space needs to function and anything that might point us in a particular direction regarding furniture frames, fabrics and more. If you have pets or small children, for example, we might steer you toward performance fabrics that are easy to clean. These questions help us to better home in on the details that elevate your design into something that is a true reflection of you and how you live your life. Think about how you want your furniture to feel Are you a fan of the feel and look of crushed velvet, or are you looking for a chunky woven organic texture in your fabric? If you know you’re needing a performance fabric but are worried about them feeling hard or stiff, I’m excited to tell you that performance fabric has come a long way in recent years and can feel just as rich and buttery as traditional piles. Additionally, think about what kind of cushions you are after and the kind of maintenance you’re willing to take on. Are you a die-hard fan of down, or do you need something with more support? Do you want to set and forget, or are you prepared to fluff after each use? There is no wrong answer. All options produce beautiful results; just know what your lifestyle requires. Before you meet with a designer, here are a few things you can do on your own to prepare: Turn to social media for inspiration Save a post if you find a piece you love, and show your designer during your appointment. Collect swatches Gather swatches of wall colors, wall coverings and flooring from spaces you wish to keep as-is, and fabric swatches for existing pieces you want to work into your new space. Measure your space Measure your room, not only taking into account the length and width of the room but noting where the windows and doors are located in the space. One measurement we often see left out is the height and width of the doorways (and hallways and stairwells) through which the furniture will need to fit in order to enter the space. Include a floor plan if you can (don’t worry; a quick sketch is sufficient). Create a mood board Mood boards can be made physically, but often I find a digital version is a great place to start. Include design inspiration you like as well as fabric and wallpaper snippets from your home if you intend to keep them. This is not a necessary step to do on your own, but it’s a great way for a designer to get a visual representation of your personal style. Get local news delivered to your inbox!

REYKJAVIK, Iceland (AP) — Icelanders will elect a new parliament Saturday after disagreements over immigration, energy policy and the economy forced Prime Minister Bjarni Benediktsson to pull the plug on his coalition government and call early elections. This is Iceland’s sixth general election since the 2008 financial crisis devastated the economy of the North Atlantic island nation and ushered in a new era of political instability. Opinion polls suggest the country may be in for another upheaval, with support for the three governing parties plunging. Benediktsson, who was named prime minister in April following the resignation of his predecessor, struggled to hold together the unlikely coalition of his conservative Independence Party with the centrist Progressive Party and the Left-Green Movement. Iceland, a nation of about 400,000 people, is proud of its democratic traditions, describing itself as arguably the world’s oldest parliamentary democracy. The island’s parliament, the Althingi, was founded in 930 by the Norsemen who settled the country. Here’s what to look for in the contest. How does the election work? Voters will choose 63 members of the Althingi in an election that will allocate seats both by regional constituencies and proportional representation. Parties need at least 5% of the vote to win seats in parliament. Eight parties were represented in the outgoing parliament, and 10 parties are contesting this election. Turnout is traditionally high by international standards, with 80% of registered voters casting ballots in the 2021 parliamentary election. Why now? A windswept island near the Arctic Circle, Iceland normally holds elections during the warmer months of the year. But on Oct. 13 Benediktsson decided his coalition couldn’t last any longer, and he asked President Halla Tómasdóttir to dissolve the Althingi. “The weakness of this society is that we have no very strong party and we have no very strong leader of any party,’’ said Vilhjálmur Bjarnson, a former member of parliament. “We have no charming person with a vision ... That is very difficult for us.” Why is Iceland’s politics so fractured? The splintering of Iceland’s political landscape came after the 2008 financial crisis, which prompted years of economic upheaval after its debt-swollen banks collapsed. The crisis led to anger and distrust of the parties that had traditionally traded power back and forth, and prompted the creation of new parties ranging from the environment focused Left-Green Alliance to the Pirate Party, which advocates direct democracy and individual freedoms. “This is one of the consequences of the economic crash,’’ said Eva H. Önnudóttir, a professor of political science at the University of Iceland. “It’s just the changed landscape. Parties, especially the old parties, have maybe kind of been hoping that we would go back to how things were before, but that’s not going to happen.” What are the issues? Like many Western countries, Iceland has been buffeted by the rising cost of living and immigration pressures. Inflation peaked at an annual rate of 10.2% in February 2023, fueled by the fallout from the COVID-19 pandemic and Russia’s invasion of Ukraine. While inflation slowed to 5.1% in October, that is still high compared with neighboring countries. The U.S. inflation rate stood at 2.6% last month, while the European Union’s rate was 2.3%. Iceland is also struggling to accommodate a rising number of asylum-seekers, creating tensions within the small, traditionally homogenous country. The number of immigrants seeking protection in Iceland jumped to more than 4,000 in each of the past three years, compared with a previous average of less than 1,000. What about the volcano? Repeated eruptions of a volcano in the southwestern part of the country have displaced thousands of people and strained public finances. One year after the first eruption forced the evacuation of the town of Grindavik, many residents still don’t have secure housing, leading to complaints that the government has been slow to respond. But it also added to a shortage of affordable housing exacerbated by Iceland’s tourism boom. Young people are struggling to get a foot on the housing ladder at a time when short-term vacation rentals have reduced the housing stock available for locals, Önnudóttir said. “The housing issue is becoming a big issue in Iceland,” she said. —— Kirka reported from London. Marco Di Marco And Danica Kirka, The Associated Press

On Monday, the U.S. Department of Energy’s Loan Program Office revealed that StarPlus Energy has received a “conditional commitment” for the multi-billion dollar loan. If approved, teh money would help the collaboration between FCA US and Samsung SDI Co. construct two lithium-ion battery plants in the Kokomo 50 miles north of Indianapolis. The loan announcement comes after the Indiana Economic Development Corp. pledged hundreds of millions of dollars in state tax credits and incentives to the project. Stellantis, FCA’s parent company, and Samsung first announced plans to build an electric vehicle battery plant in Kokomo in May 2022. Then, in October 2023, the partners announced they would construct a second plant. According to Monday’s announcement, the project is expected to create up to 3,200 construction jobs as well as 2,800 plant jobs. The batteries built in Kokomo are forecasted to power about 670,000 electric cars each year. Stellantis would purchase the batteries for the vehicles marketed in the United States. An Energy Department fact sheet indicates that the interest rate for the loan would be the “applicable U.S. Treasury rate for the term of the loan with no credit spread.” No details on the term were immediately available. “This project reinforces President Biden’s Investing in America agenda to onshore and reshore domestic manufacturing technologies,” the Energy Department’s statement said. The loan would come through the federal government’s Advanced Technology Vehicles Manufacturing Loan Program, which was first established through the Energy Independence and Security Act of 2007. It would be the second Indiana plant to receive program funds. Last month, the Biden administration announced the finalization of a $1.3 billion loan to ENTEK, which is constructing a factory in Terre Haute to make separators used in lithium-ion batteries. The Biden administration and StarPlus must still complete some requirements before the loan can be finalized. Among them, StarPlus must create a Community Benefits Plan that demonstrates how the company will work with local officials and labor groups. The battery plants are being built using workers from local trade unions. Administration officials are also expecting StarPlus to participate in the Justice40 Initiative, which calls for 40% of the benefits produced from the government’s investment to boost communities that are considered underinvested “and overburdened by pollution.”Formula 1 has reached an agreement in principle that will bring General Motors onto the grid under the Cadillac brand as the 11th team in 2026. The project was given approval by the FIA last year but in January the commercial assessment from F1 resulted in an Andretti Cadillac team rejected for 2026. At the time, F1 said it would be more open to a 2028 entry if GM committed to producing its own power unit – as it had indicated it would – and discussions have continued since then with both the car manufacturer as well as its partners at TWG Global. Related Momentum building behind GM F1 entry “Over the course of this year, they have achieved operational milestones and made clear their commitment to brand the 11th team GM/Cadillac, and that GM will enter as an engine supplier at a later time,” F1 said in a statement. “Formula 1 is therefore pleased to move forward with this application process and will provide further updates in due course.” Following the initial response in January, RACER understands that outgoing Liberty Media president and CEO Greg Maffei has played a significant role in evolving GM’s plans. “With Formula 1’s continued growth plans in the U.S., we have always believed that welcoming an impressive U.S. brand like GM/Cadillac to the grid and GM as a future power unit supplier could bring additional value and interest to the sport,” Maffei said. “We credit the leadership of General Motors and their partners with significant progress in their readiness to enter Formula 1. We are excited to move forward with the application process for the GM/Cadillac team to enter the Championship in 2026.” GM President Mark Reuss said: “As the pinnacle of motorsports, F1 demands boundary-pushing innovation and excellence. It’s an honor for General Motors and Cadillac to join the world’s premier racing series, and we’re committed to competing with passion and integrity to elevate the sport for race fans around the world. This is a global stage for us to demonstrate GM’s engineering expertise and technology leadership at an entirely new level.” F1 CEO Stefano Domenicali said the project now has the full support of all of the sport’s key stakeholders as it works towards entering in just over a year’s time. “General Motors and Cadillac’s commitment to this project is an important and positive demonstration of the evolution of our sport,” Domenicali said. “We look forward to seeing the progress and growth of this entry, certain of the full collaboration and support of all the parties involved.” Mario Andretti will serve as a director on the team’s board. “My first love was Formula 1 and now – 70 years later – the F1 paddock is still my happy place,” said the 1978 world champion. “I’m absolutely thrilled with Cadillac, Formula 1, Mark Walter, and Dan Towriss. To still be involved at this stage of my life — I have to pinch myself to make sure I’m not dreaming.” The announcement also confirms TWG Global’s position as the parent company that owns and operates Andretti Global, Wayne Taylor Racing and Spire Motorsports in addition to the Cadillac F1 program. “We’re excited to partner with General Motors in bringing a dynamic presence to Formula 1,” said Dan Towriss, CEO of TWG Global’s motorsports businesses. “Together, we’re assembling a world-class team that will embody American innovation and deliver unforgettable moments to race fans around the world. We appreciate FIA and FOM’s support of our application and their recognition of the value we can bring to the championship.’’ This story has been updated to include additional quotes and details.

A report this week indicated Chargers running back J.K. Dobbins was with a knee sprain and it will be at least a four-game absence from the lineup. The Chargers announced that Dobbins has been placed on injured reserve on Saturday. Safety Alohi Gilman, who has a hamstring injury, was also moved to that list. Dobbins has been enjoying a strong season after three injury-plagued years with the Ravens. He has 158 carries for 766 yards and eight touchdowns, but the Chargers will have to go with Gus Edwards, Hassan Haskins, and Kimani Vidal for the time being. The Chargers filled one of the open roster spots by signing veteran safety Tony Jefferson to the active roster. They also called up cornerback Dicaprio Bootle and linebacker Jeremiah Jean-Baptiste from the practice squad on a temporary basis.

Girls basketball results for Saturday, Nov. 30, 2024

Ituka scores 18 off the bench, Jacksonville State downs East Carolina 86-78HARRISBURG, PA — The Pennsylvania Department of Conservation and Natural Resources (DCNR) has announced funding awards exceeding $372,000 to support 11 key projects aimed at preserving the state’s unique and irreplaceable biodiversity. The grants, administered through the Wild Resource Conservation Program, reflect an ongoing commitment to protecting the Commonwealth’s non-game animals, native plants, and their habitats in the face of challenges such as climate change, habitat loss, and human activity. DCNR Secretary Cindy Adams Dunn highlighted the importance of these investments in safeguarding Pennsylvania’s ecological heritage. “The Shapiro Administration is proud to support these vital projects, which align with our mission to preserve Pennsylvania’s wildlife for future generations,” said Dunn. “Protecting our vulnerable species from climate change, human development, and other threats is a priority, and the Wild Resource Conservation Program plays a key role in achieving this goal.” The Wild Resource Conservation Program, established in 1982, serves as a pillar of Pennsylvania’s conservation efforts. Its mission is to fund and implement initiatives that safeguard non-game species, ensure the persistence of native flora, and protect crucial ecosystems. The program awards grants under three distinct categories: species surveys, conservation, and habitat management. This year’s approved projects span a diverse range of initiatives designed to address urgent and emerging threats to biodiversity. The funded efforts include surveys to catalog the state’s fungal diversity, assessments of natural habitats for stream restoration, and projects seeking to improve conditions for Pennsylvania’s endangered and threatened species. While specific details of these projects were not disclosed, the focus underscores the program’s strategic emphasis on fostering resilience in ecosystems statewide. Biodiversity represents the variety of life that exists in Pennsylvania’s ecosystems, including an array of mammals, birds, amphibians, and reptiles, as well as native plants and fungi integral to the state’s ecosystems. Yet this richness is increasingly under threat due to a combination of human activity and global environmental changes. Protecting this biodiversity involves not only conserving individual species but also safeguarding the ecosystems that support them. Programs like the Wild Resource Conservation Program demonstrate how scientific research and strategic funding work together to assure the health of these systems. By conducting species surveys, scientists gain vital data that shapes conservation strategies. Likewise, habitat restoration and management projects contribute to reversing damage caused by erosion, pollution, and development. Beyond its funding capabilities, the program also depends on public engagement. Pennsylvanians contribute to its success through various avenues, including purchasing Eastern Hellbender license plates, which raise funds for conservation, or donating through the state’s tax check-off program. Such partnerships between the state, conservationists, and the public illustrate a shared responsibility for maintaining Pennsylvania’s natural heritage. The threats facing the Commonwealth’s native species cannot be overstated. From amphibians vulnerable to habitat destruction, such as the Eastern Hellbender—a giant aquatic salamander and Pennsylvania’s official state amphibian—to insect populations critical for pollination, protecting biodiversity requires sustained effort. Climate change, with its potential to alter ecosystems faster than species can adapt, presents additional concern, along with invasive species introductions that disrupt delicate ecological balances. The DCNR funding is part of a broader initiative by Governor Josh Shapiro’s administration to address these challenges by fostering a “green” Pennsylvania capable of preserving its natural assets for future generations. The Wild Resource Conservation Program acts as a central tool in these efforts, strengthening the capacity to address needs that might otherwise be overlooked. This year’s award recipients will begin rolling out their initiatives in the coming months, promoting research and tangible outcomes with the potential to ensure Pennsylvania’s ecosystems thrive for decades. From preserving the habitats of threatened species to exploring lesser-known ecosystems like fungal communities, the projects are a testament to the strength of public sector involvement in conservation. Through initiatives like these, Pennsylvania continues to set a national standard for state-level biodiversity protection, balancing environmental responsibility with long-term economic and social benefits. The awarded projects not only highlight the Commonwealth’s commitment to its natural landscapes but also strengthen the connection between its residents and the environment they call home. For the latest news on everything happening in Chester County and the surrounding area, be sure to follow MyChesCo on Google News and MSN .

BOSTON — Before the start of the 2024-25 season, Boston Bruins CEO Charlie Jacobs was looking forward to seeing the roster president Cam Neely and general manager Don Sweeney had built. “There’s a lot of excitement around this team,” Jacobs said on Sept. 30. “I’ve thought personally and I’ll share this openly — I feel Don and Cam have done an excellent job this offseason in acquiring some great talent, some very exciting players.” Advertisement Twenty-five games later, the Bruins are 11-11-3 and fourth in the Atlantic Division. They have fired coach Jim Montgomery. Elias Lindholm and Nikita Zadorov , their primary offseason signings, are improving but have yet to reach their thresholds. They are coming off a 2-1 loss to the Pittsburgh Penguins , whose minus-32 goal differential is the worst in the league. “We’re a .500 club right now,” Jacobs said on Saturday ahead of the Bruins’ centennial game on Sunday against the Montreal Canadiens . “I think we’ve yet to play our best game.” The Bruins are 3-2-0 under interim coach Joe Sacco. Jeremy Swayman , who missed all of training camp before signing an eight-year, $66 million contract, has a .943 save percentage in his three starts following Montgomery’s dismissal. Swayman has an .892 save percentage over 17 appearances. Meanwhile, David Pastrnak is stuck in a seven-game goal-scoring drought for the second time this season. The Bruins have scored on 12 percent of their power plays, second-lowest in the league. “Being a captain and a player of this historic team means embracing what it means to wear the spoked B,” Brad Marchand said during a Saturday speech unveiling the franchise’s centennial bear statue next to TD Garden. “It means playing with that same spirit every night. Showing up in the toughest moments and leading by example, especially when times are tough.” “Tomorrow, it will officially be a year,” Jacobs said of the organization’s centennial celebration. “It’s going to be something. I sure hope we can put our best foot forward tomorrow afternoon when we play the Habs. Let’s get another ‘W’ in the books. We need it.” Required reading (Photo: Jessica Rinaldi / The Boston Globe via Getty Images)Okocha emerges parallel APC chairman in RiversPep Guardiola sure 75 per cent of Premier League clubs want Man City relegated

A number of shoppers around the UK have complained after finding Easter eggs on supermarket shelves in December. Easter Sunday is four months away, falling on April 20 in 2025 but some supermarkets already have seasonal stock out on their shelves. Chocolate eggs and hot cross buns have already been spotted for sale in shops including Morrisons, Tesco and Asda. As reported by Sky News , Gary Evans, 66, from Margate, shared a picture of Creme Eggs on display at his local Morrisons on Boxing Day. I’m a very liberal person but seeing Morrisons selling #Easter eggs right after #Christmas is where I draw the line 🥲 pic.twitter.com/RZR4gsvanx — Martins (@kukuliitiis) December 28, 2024 "I just think it's crazy that everything is so superficial and meaninglessly commercial... [there's] something quite frantic about it," he said. Meanwhile, Joseph Robinson, saw themed Kit-Kat and Kinder Surprise products at his local Morrisons in Stoke-on-Trent on Friday evening (December 27). He said: "It's funny as they've not even managed to shift the Christmas chocolates off the shelves yet and they're already stocking for Easter. "I wish that supermarkets weren't so blatantly consumerist-driven and would actually allow customers and staff a time to decompress during the Christmas period." On X (formerly known as Twitter) user @Jingle1991 shared an image of Malteser Bunnies in Sainsbury's on Christmas Eve and pointed out: "Easter chocolate already out. Jesus hasn’t even been born yet". Another added: "I’m a very liberal person but seeing Morrisons selling #Easter eggs right after #Christmas is where I draw the line". In an alternative view, marketing consultant Andrew Wallis, 54, admitted he was surprised to see Easter eggs in the Co-op in Kilgetty, Pembrokeshire. However, he added it also illustrates "forward-thinking" from big businesses. Recommended reading: Cadbury chocolate Easter eggs spotted in B&M as shoppers say 'far too early' Quality Street discontinues chocolate labelled 'favourite of all time' by fans I went looking for discontinued chocolates still on sale in UK - here's what I found He explained: "It made me reflect on how big brands are always thinking ahead and planning early. "My message to retailers would be: while planning ahead is important, it's also essential to be mindful of consumer sentiment. "Some might feel it's too early for seasonal products like this but others might see it as a sign of forward-thinking. Striking the right balance is key to keeping customers happy."

ATSG Stock Alert: Halper Sadeh LLC Is Investigating Whether the Sale of Air Transport Services Group, Inc. Is Fair to Shareholders

Judge to hear arguments on whether Google's advertising tech constitutes a monopoly ALEXANDRIA, Va. (AP) — The Justice Department and Google are set to make closing arguments in a trial alleging Google’s online advertising technology constitutes an illegal monopoly. The arguments in federal court Monday in northern Virginia come as Google is already facing a possible breakup of the company over its ubiquitous search engine. The Justice Department says it will seek the breakup of Google to remedy its search engine monopoly. The case focuses not on the search engine but on technology that matches online advertisers to consumers on the internet. A judge is expected to rule by the end of the year. ‘Busiest Thanksgiving ever’: How the TSA plans to handle record air travel DALLAS (AP) — The Thanksgiving travel rush is expected to be bigger than ever this year. AAA predicts that nearly 80 million people in the U.S. will venture at least 50 miles from home between Tuesday and next Monday — most of them by car. Thanksgiving Day falling so late this year has altered traditional travel patterns. At airports, the Transportation Security Administration says it could screen a record number of U.S. air travelers on Sunday. Meanwhile, the head of the Federal Aviation Administration says a shortage of air traffic controllers could cause flight delays. Transportation analytics company INRIX says roads could be congested on Monday with both commuters and returning holiday travelers. Macy’s says employee hid up to $154 million in expenses, delaying Q3 earnings Macy’s says it’s delaying the release of its fiscal third-quarter earnings results after it discovered an up to $154 million accounting-related issue. The company did provide some preliminary results for its third quarter, including that net sales fell 2.4% to $4.74 billion. It anticipates reporting its full third-quarter financial results by Dec. 11. 'Buy now, pay later' is more popular than ever. Experts warn shoppers not to overdo it NEW YORK (AP) — More shoppers are using ‘buy now, pay later’ plans heading into Black Friday and the holiday season, as the ability to spread out payments looks attractive at a time when Americans still feel the lingering effect of inflation and already have record-high credit card debt. Experts say the short-term loans can lead consumers to overextend themselves and warn that those who use credit cards for the service face higher interest expenses. The data firm Adobe Analytics predicts shoppers will spend 11.4% more this holiday season using buy now, pay later than they did a year ago. Warren Buffett gives away another $1.1B and plans for distributing his $147B fortune after his death OMAHA, Neb. (AP) — Investor Warren Buffett renewed his Thanksgiving tradition of giving by announcing plans Monday to hand more than $1.1 billion of Berkshire Hathaway stock to four of his family's foundations, and he offered new details about who will be handing out the rest of his fortune after his death. Buffett has said previously that his three kids will distribute his remaining $147.4 billion fortune in the 10 years after his death, but now he has also designated successors for them because it’s possible that Buffett’s children could die before giving it all away. Buffett said he has no regrets about his decision to start giving away his fortune in 2006. Workers at Charlotte airport, an American Airlines hub, go on strike during Thanksgiving travel week CHARLOTTE, N.C. (AP) — Service workers at Charlotte Douglas International Airport have gone on strike during a busy week of Thanksgiving travel to protest what they say are unlivable wages. Employees of ABM and Prospect Airport Services authorized the work stoppage in North Carolina that started Monday morning. Union spokesperson Sean Keady says the strike is expected to last 24 hours. The companies contract with American Airlines to provide services such as cleaning airplane interiors, removing trash and escorting passengers in wheelchairs. Airport officials say this holiday travel season is expected to be the busiest on record. The companies have acknowledged the seriousness of a strike during the holiday travel season. At the crossroads of news and opinion, 'Morning Joe' hosts grapple with aftermath of Trump meeting The reaction of those who defended “Morning Joe” hosts Joe Scarborough and Mika Brzezinski for meeting with President-elect Trump sounds almost quaint in the days of opinionated journalism. Doesn't it makes sense, they said, for hosts of a political news show to meet with such an important figure? But given how “Morning Joe” has attacked Trump, its viewers felt insulted. Many reacted quickly by staying away. It all reflects the broader trend of opinion crowding out traditional journalist in today's marketplace, and the expectations that creates among consumers. By mid-week, the show's audience was less than two-thirds what it has typically been this year. Stock market today: Wall Street rises near records as Treasury yields ease NEW YORK (AP) — U.S. stocks are rising near records and adding to last week’s gains. The S&P 500 rose 0.1% Monday and was just below its all-time high set two weeks ago. The Dow Jones Industrial Average added 286 points to its own record set on Friday, while the Nasdaq composite was 0.1% higher. Treasury yields also eased in the bond market after President-elect Donald Trump said he wants Scott Bessent, a hedge fund manager, to be his Treasury Secretary. Bessent has advocated for reducing the U.S. government’s deficit, which could soothe some worries that had been building on Wall Street. Judge in Alex Jones' bankruptcy case to hear arguments on The Onion's bid for Infowars A federal judge in Texas is set to hold a hearing on whether the satirical news outlet The Onion made a valid bid for the Infowars platforms of conspiracy theorist Alex Jones, who alleges a bankruptcy auction was marred by fraud and collusion. The hearing is set for Monday afternoon. It's not clear how soon the bankruptcy judge will rule. He could allow The Onion to move forward with its purchase, order a new auction or even name the only other bidder as the winner. Jones filed for bankruptcy after being ordered to pay nearly $1.5 billion in defamation lawsuits by families of victims of the 2012 Sandy Hook Elementary School shooting in Connecticut. As Amazon expands use of warehouse robots, what will it mean for workers? Amazon has introduced a handful of robots in its warehouses that the e-commerce giant says will improve efficiency and reduce employee injuries. Two robotic arms named Robin and Cardinal can lift packages that weigh up to 50 pounds. Sparrow transfers items from bins to other containers. The company says it's already seeing benefits, such as reducing the time it takes to fulfill orders and helping employees avoid repetitive tasks. However, automation also carries drawbacks for workers who might need to be retrained for new positions. The Associated Press recently spoke with Julie Mitchell, the director of Amazon’s robotic sortation technologies, about where the company hopes to go from here.

Amid Delhi’s pollution crisis, where the air quality index (AQI) often exceeds 300, one home in Sainik Farms stands as a remarkable example of sustainable living. The residence of Peter Singh and Nino Kaur has achieved an astonishingly low indoor AQI of just 10-15. Their efforts to create a clean, eco-friendly environment show that even in a city battling pollution, a green and healthy lifestyle is possible. The house has 15,000 plants for clean air At the heart of this eco-friendly home is an incredible collection of over 15,000 plants. These plants play a critical role in purifying the air, filtering out harmful particles, and providing clean oxygen for the family. Unlike most homes, which rely on air purifiers, the couple’s reliance on natural solutions ensures that their home maintains exceptional indoor air quality year-round. Image for representation | Canva Eco-friendly construction for a healthier home The house stands out for its unconventional design and sustainable construction methods. Instead of using modern cement and paint, the walls are built with bricks bound by lime mortar, a traditional technique that is not only environmentally friendly but also helps regulate indoor temperature. Lime replaces chemical-based paints, ensuring that the air inside remains free of harmful fumes. Even the roof has been designed with sustainability in mind. It is made of stone tiles instead of concrete slabs, which helps keep the home naturally cooler during Delhi’s scorching summers. This approach reduces the need for air conditioning, cutting down energy consumption and promoting a more sustainable lifestyle. Image for representation | Canva Solar-powered and self-sustaining Peter and Nino’s dedication to sustainability extends far beyond their choice of building materials. Their home is powered entirely by solar energy, making it completely off-grid. This eliminates their dependence on the city’s electricity supply, which is often unreliable and generated through non-renewable sources. By harnessing the power of the sun, the couple has created a self-sufficient home that reduces their environmental impact while saving energy costs. A life-changing journey toward sustainability The couple’s journey to building this green haven began with health concerns. Nino was diagnosed with blood cancer. After undergoing chemotherapy, her weakened lungs were struggling to cope with the city's toxic air.Doctors initially advised them to leave Delhi because of the city’s hazardous air quality. Image for representation | Canva They briefly moved to Goa, where their son had purchased a house for them. However, their lives took a turn when an Ayurvedic specialist encouraged them to adopt an organic, eco-friendly lifestyle. Inspired by this advice, they returned to Delhi with a clear mission: to transform their home into a sanctuary of health and sustainability. Today, their home stands as a living example of how ancient techniques and modern technology can be combined to create a better way of life. In a city choked by pollution, their house is a refreshing reminder that with determination and creativity, environmental challenges can be faced and overcome.FORT COLLINS, Colo. (AP) — Mustapha Amzil scored 14 points as New Mexico beat Colorado State 76-68 on Saturday. Amzil added five rebounds for the Lobos (10-3, 2-0 Mountain West Conference). Donovan Dent added 14 points while going 7 of 16 from the field while they also had six assists. C.J. Noland had 11 points and finished 5 of 7 from the field. Nique Clifford led the way for the Rams (7-6, 1-1) with 17 points, seven rebounds, six assists and three steals. Jaylen Crocker-Johnson added 13 points and nine rebounds for Colorado State. Kyan Evans also had 10 points. New Mexico took the lead with 8:53 to go in the first half and did not relinquish it. The score was 41-25 at halftime, with Filip Borovicanin racking up 10 points. New Mexico was outscored by Colorado State in the second half by eight points, with Amzil scoring a team-high six points in the final half. Both teams next play Tuesday. New Mexico visits Fresno State and Colorado State goes on the road to play San Jose State. The Associated Press created this story using technology provided by Data Skrive and data from Sportradar .

NoneRomanian far-right candidate says democracy ‘cancelled’ along with election MOGOSOAIA, Romania: The Romanian far-right presidential candidate at the centre of a Russian electoral meddling scandal turned up at the place he would have voted in on Sunday, saying the Constitutional Court’s decision to cancel the ballot was fatal for democracy. The court annulled the ongoing presidential election after accusations of Russian meddling and on Friday ruled the entire process, which had been due to conclude this weekend, would have to be re-run. Russia denies any interference in the process. Sunday’s second round would have pitted Calin Georgescu, a far-right, pro-Russian candidate who was ahead in the first round, against pro-European Union centrist leader Elena Lasconi. On Sunday morning, Georgescu was greeted by a crowd of supporters and journalists at the school where he would have cast his vote. “We shall continue in the democratic manner,” he said, speaking in English. “I ask very clearly for peace, for all the things that we have to recuperate our democracy because democracy was cancelled with the court.” Meanwhile, in a letter dated Dec 7 and posted on social media platform X late on Saturday, Lasconi told US President-elect Donald Trump that she also feared democracy was in danger.