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In the face of “authoritarian expansion,” all like-minded countries in the Indo-Pacific must unite to “safeguard democracy, peace, and prosperity,” Taiwan President Lai Ching-te said in a visit to the Guam governor’s residence Thursday morning. Guam was Lai’s second stop on American soil, the first being Hawaii, during a weeklong visit to Pacific allies, drawing condemnation from China. China claims democratically governed Taiwan as its own territory and objects to official exchanges between Taiwan and the United States. During his late Wednesday night to Thursday afternoon stopover on Guam, Lai, who was clad in island shirt throughout, was consistent in his message of safeguarding democracy and not bowing down to totalitarianism. On Guam, an envoy told dignitaries and other guests at a Thursday luncheon that the U.S. will continue to support Taiwan in its defense and ability to “protect itself against coercion. Lai and Guam Gov. Lou Leon Guerrero both expressed a desire for deeper cultural and economic ties between Taiwan and Guam during a joint press conference hosted at Government House. The governor said she’s “deeply honored” to welcome Lai to Guam. “Your visit marks a significant chapter in the relationship between our two islands,” Leon Guerrero said. Lai touched down Wednesday night at A.B. Won Pat International Airport Guam in his first visit since taking office as Taiwan president in May. Speaking through a translator, Lai did not mention the PRC or Beijing explicitly in his remarks. But he did make reference to Guam and Taiwan’s shared positions in the U.S. island chain strategy, conceived of by American strategists to contain the Chinese military and previously, the Soviet Union. “Moving forward, we must work closer together and stand side by side to safeguard and maintain peace and stability in the Indo-Pacific region,” Lai said. He stressed the shared values of “freedom and democracy,” and the archeological evidence confirming the shared Austronesian roots of the Taiwanese and CHamoru peoples. “In the past, with the support of Gov. Lou Leon Guerrero and the Guam Legislature, Taiwan and Guam have stood shoulder to shoulder in striving to protect our shared values,” Lai said. “In the years ahead, I look forward to Taiwan and Guam continuing to strengthen cooperation in all areas so as to create even greater well being for both our peoples.” Tensions between Beijing and Washington over Taiwan have been heightened this year, with the U.S. in October agreeing to provide $2 billion worth of arms to Taiwan and China hosting war games encircling Taiwan, the Associated Press reports. Late last month, U.S. officials signed off on $385 million in new weapons sales to Taiwan, Reuters reports. Leon Guerrero and Lai on Thursday did stress economic ties, and potential future medical collaboration between Guam and Taiwan. Lai highlighted his background as a physician, and Leon Guerrero’s as a nurse. “I do hope that moving forward, Taiwan and Guam can enjoy closer cooperation in terms of health and medicine,” Lai said. At a luncheon Thursday afternoon, Lai said he and Leon Guerrero made a “joint commitment” to better the wellbeing of their peoples. There were also opportunities for cooperation in the fields of aquaculture, hydroculture, construction engineering and alternative energy, Lai said Thursday morning. He commented on the “wonderful scenery” which he said made it clear why 30,000 Taiwanese tourists visited Guam each year prior to the COVID-19 pandemic. “Moving forward, I hope that through our joint efforts, we can bring even more flow of Taiwanese tourists to Guam. We hope the flow of Taiwanese tourists, Guam can go back to pre-COVID standards or even more. And we hope that they can...come to Guam, for tourism, for investment and for bilateral cooperation,” Lai said. Leon Guerrero specifically thanked Lai for “rejuvenating” direct flights from Taiwan to Guam through China Airlines, which started on Nov. 28. She said future opportunities for collaboration are “limitless.” “Whether in technology, in health care or sustainable development, our combined efforts will undoubtedly yield benefits that resonate far beyond our shores,” she said. After their remarks, the two politicians exchanged gifts and posed for a brief photo-op before dismissing the media. No questions from the press were entertained. Lai and Leon Guerrero sat for breakfast and tea. After the governor-hosted breakfast meeting, Lai visited the Guam Congress Building, where members of the 37th Guam Legislature presented him with a legislative resolution, recognizing and appreciating Taiwan’s significant contributions to Guam’s economy and community. The U.S. will continue to aid Taiwan’s defense and ability to “protect itself against coercion,” an official from the American Institute in Taiwan, AIT, said on Guam Thursday. AIT Washington office managing director Ingrid Larson made the comments at a luncheon Thursday afternoon at Hyatt Regency Guam, honoring Lai’s stopover. The Taipei Economic Cultural Office, TECO, in Guam organized the well-attended luncheon. Guam top officials, including Leon Guerrero, Speaker Therese Terlaje, Associate Justice F. Phillip Carbullido, various senators and village mayors, as well as Commonwealth of the Northern Mariana Islands Gov. Arnold Palacios were in attendance. “So commensurate is the threat faced, the United States will continue to help Taiwan bolster its self-defense capabilities,” as framed by the Taiwan Relations Act, Larson told the crowd of local and visiting dignitaries. AIT is a nonprofit largely funded by the U.S. Department of State, which serves as a liaison for the U.S. in its unofficial diplomatic relations with Taiwan. Larson Thursday stressed that while the U.S. anticipates a new presidential administration, the “north star” of administrations for over 40 years has been “preserving that peace and stability across the Taiwan Strait.” “Peace and stability are critical to regional and global security,” she said. Larson also said the U.S. “applauds the Lai administration’s efforts to continue reinforcing Taiwan’s self defense capability through reform and resource investment.” She said the longstanding, unofficial, U.S.-Taiwan relationship has been focused on democracy, security, and prosperity. Meanwhile, the head of the U.S. Indo-Pacific Command in November said the diversion of U.S. weapons and defensive systems to Ukraine and the Middle East has diverted resources from the Indo-Pacific. Past war games and a recent study commissioned by the U.S. Air Force have flagged Guam as a likely target should a U.S.-China conflict erupt over Taiwan. “I believe that going forward, Taiwan and the United States will only further enhance our great relations,” Lai told the crowd, speaking through a translator. “Together, we are good partners in defending democracy, freedom and prosperity for both sides.” “Democracy has given us a good way of life, and our life is diverse,” Lai said. “We have the precious freedom and creativity that allows Taiwan to develop its economy and also our shared values, including democracy, have allowed Taiwan to make friends with Guam, Hawaii, the United States and the Marshall Islands and Tuvalu.” He also stressed Taiwan’s production of 90% of the world’s advanced chips, which it wished to leverage to “strengthen economic development and increase prosperity” in the world. Palacios, the governor of the CNMI, another U.S. territory, said he would continue to support Taiwan. “We look forward to an enduring relationship, despite the geopolitical environment that we now live in,” Palacios said. From Guam, Lai will head to Palau Thursday afternoon, before returning to Taipei on Friday. Palau, Tuvalu and the Marshall Islands are among Taiwan’s dozen formal diplomatic allies. Lai started his Pacific trip with a stopover in Hawaii before visiting the Marshall Islands and Tuvalu, then Guam and Palau.Analysts See $10 for Lightchain AI While XRP Hangs at $5 ProjectionISRO To Study How Crops Grow In Space On PSLV C60 Mission

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How major US stock indexes fared Monday, 12/23/2024By Jessica Cogswell on December 10, 2024 at 1:50PM PST GameSpot may receive revenue from affiliate and advertising partnerships for sharing this content and from purchases through links. In addition to recognizing some of the greatest games of the past year, The Game Awards is also a celebration of all the fantastic games to come. Each December, we are treated to plenty of jam-packed showcases filled with reveals, updates, and even a few surprise releases. One such showcase is Wholesome Snack, which offers a bite-sized look at some of the coziest titles currently in production. This year, Wholesome Games brought 24 games front and center, with genres ranging from fantasy RPGs and adventure puzzlers to life sims and match-three games. Below is everything shown at this year's Wholesome Snack showcase, as well as links to their respective Steam pages and a bit more about what adventures they hold. This adorable exploration game sees you play as a mama duck in charge of guiding her ducklings from the moment they hatch up until their first flight. With a cheery soundtrack, lush environments, plenty of cute interactions, and low stakes, the only thing developer Shaky Shrub Games says you need to worry about is "cuteness overload." Release date: TBD Aikyam combines Bollywood, turn-based combat, and highly saturated art to create a unique fantasy RPG in which dance can save the world. Join Vishva, Ramli, and Guru-ji as they protect their ancient Indian village from an influx of demons through compassion and dazzling dance moves. Release date: TBD Capy Castaway is a whimsical adventure game in which you play as a capybara and their crotchety crow companion. Each member of this duo possesses unique skills, with the capybara able to push, sniff, and dig while the crow can fly and pick up items. Together they must navigate puzzles in order to find their way back home. Release date: TBD Set in Quito, Ecuador, Despelote follows eight-year-old Julián as he navigates life and his favorite hobby: soccer. Billed as a "soccer game about people," Despelote offers players a look at life in Quito as Ecuador comes closer than ever to winning the World Cup. Release date: 2025 The next entry in the Duck Detective series, Duck Detective: The Ghost of Glamping follows our fowl friend as he investigates a lavish campground alongside a new companion he doesn't quite get along with. Marketed as a comical version of deduction puzzlers such as The Return of the Obra Dinn, this title looks perfect for anyone looking for a low-stakes mystery game. Release date: 2025 Little Rocket Lab offers a different spin on your traditional farming sim as protagonist Morgan returns to her hometown not to farm, but to finish building the rocket her mother always dreamed of creating. When not flexing your engineering skills, you'll get the chance to build relationships with the town's inhabitants, unlock new components for your lab, and help save the town of St. Ambrose. Release date: TBD Another original take on the life sim genre, Locomoto sees you play as an adorable, animal-like train conductor. You'll get the chance to customize your very own engine, tend to passengers, and "embark on a journey through beautiful landscapes," all while listening to some soft, lofi beats. Release date: TBD After raising nearly $1.3 million on Kickstarter , production on the highly anticipated solarpunk farming sim/MMO Loftia is well on its way. The team at Qloud Games offered another look at the game during Wholesome Snack, focusing on the new Neighborhoods feature, which "allows players to attach their personal floating islands to others, forming a small community of islands anchored around a central, communal space." Release date: TBD Tiny Roar's Lou's Lagoon is as an adventure game that tasks you with solving the mysterious disappearance of your Uncle Lou. Fortunately, he left you with complete control of his seaplane delivery service, allowing you to not only search the Limbo Archipelago for his whereabouts, but harvest resources, take on jobs, and grow your own business while you do it. Release date: TBD Billed as a colorful, minimalist adventure game, Naiad allows players to float dreamily through rivers, interact with flora and fauna, and simply vibe out as they take in all of nature's wonders. When you're not helping ducklings swim and plants bloom, it will also be up to you to ensure that reckless humans don't pollute the river, adding an eco-friendly message to a relaxing experience. Release date: Out now In Piece by Piece , you play as an adorable fox in charge of their own repair shop. You'll play a vital role in your community as the town's primary fixer-upper, as you fix, build, and paint "all sorts of curious items from a model cat all the way to binoculars." When not in your workshop, you'll get the chance to grow plants to create dyes and play a few rounds of Bear, Fish, Bee. Release date: TBD In Pinbleton Park , everything you see is part of a giant pinball table, making for a unique take on a cozy adventure game. You'll be tasked with helping villagers, rescuing lost spirits, and taking down an evil corporation bent on destroying the town, using pinball mechanics to accomplish all these feats. Release date: TBD In the mood for a good cry? It certainly seems like Pine: A Story of Loss has you covered. Pine follows a woodcutter as he struggles to accept his wife's passing, which has rendered him unable to care for both himself and his now-empty home. Through puzzles and minigames, you'll get the chance to help the woodworker sort through his cherished memories and eventually embrace the next part of his life. Release date: December 13, 2024 Part-city builder and part-puzzle game, River Towns tasks you with placing differently shaped and colored districts alongside a river until you're able to connect the streams and restore the area. Depending upon how you arrange your town, you'll earn points which you can then compare with your friends, adding some replayability and competitive fun to the single-player game. Release date: 2025 With nearly 10,000 reviews and an 'overwhelming positive' score on Steam, Rusty's Retirement is already a well-loved entry in both the idle and farming sim genres. During December's Wholesome Snack, developer Mister Morris Games' revealed a free new Winter expansion was now available for download. The update adds a new winter map, a plethora of new animals (such as cats, dogs, and deer), new characters, and Christmas decorations. Release date: Out now From the award-winning developers of Journey, Sky: Children of the Light is an MMO adventure game filled with puzzles and gorgeous visuals. With a mission of helping people restore "their child-like sense of wonder," Sky is an open-world social game in which you can band with others to fend of the darkness--as well as throw parties and attend concerts. During December's Wholesome Snack showcase, the team announced Alice's Wonderland Cafe is coming to the game on December 23, adding cute new characters and a tea party setting. Release date: Currently in early access Snufkin: Melody of Moomin Valley is a musical adventure game filled with puzzles, whimsical characters, and most importantly, Moomins. Based on the work of illustrator Tove Jansson, this visually rich title sees you play as Snufkin, a druid-like character who vows to keep the destructive Park Keeper and his sinister plans away from Moomin Valley. During December's Wholesome Snack, a new DLC for Snufkin was announced. Set during late summer, it sees the Moomins embark on a final camping trip before they enter hibernation. Release date: Out now Soft Not Weak's Spirit Swap combines compelling match-3 style gameplay with vibrant colors, lofi music, witchcraft, and unapologetic queerness to create an entirely original experience that we can't wait to play. The puzzler follows protagonist Samar as they attempt to crash the biggest concert of the year--and perhaps smooch a few characters while they do. In addition to all this, the game also supports local co-op, allowing you to face-off against your friends in match-3 battles. Release date: February 3, 2025 A colorful, sci-fi take on base-building and resource management games, Star Birds tasks you with helping your population of spacefaring bird survive by scanning and building upon nearby asteroids. 360-degree construction adds a fun twist to traditional base-building, allowing you to spin and tilt your territory as you pioneer the stars. When not upgrading your buildings, you'll also be tasked with taking on missions and solving mysteries that will ultimately unlock new technology and help your avian allies. Release date: 2025 Rather than see you simply drop off your crops and gathered resources in a shipping bin like oh so many farming sims do, Sugardew Island tasks you with actually selling the items yourself via your own shop. By growing crops, tending to animals, and gathering resources, you'll see the island slowly fill with life. During December's Wholesome Snack, we got a look at the game's romance options, making us even more excited for its release early next year. Release date: March 2025 Set on an island haven in which yokai--or Japanese spirits--roam about, T ales of Seikyu follows you and your sister as you move into an abandoned farm house to start a new life. As you discover more about your ancestry and Fox Clan heritage, you'll unlock the ability to shift into different creatures that will allow you to protect your homeland. When not off turning into a giant boar, you'll also get the chance to farm, grow your ranch, cook, partake in festivals, and find a soulmate. Release date: 2025 The follow-up to 2021 indie darling Toem: A Photo Adventure, Toem 2 shakes up the original's top-down style gameplay by switching to a first-person view. The game's core concept, however, remains the same, and sees you traverse a whimsical, black-and-white world taking photographs and solving puzzles. As you do, you'll unravel mysteries, meet wacky characters, and learn to stop and appreciate life's little wonders. Release date: TBD Of all the cozy games on this list, Winter Burrow could very well be coziest--just look at the lil' mouse! The woodland survival game follows a mouse who moves back to their homeland after growing tired of the big city. Upon coming home, however, the mouse finds their old burrow in ruins and their aunt missing. It is then up to you to help them gather resources, knit sweaters, cook pies, and slowly build both their home and community back up. Sure, you have to fight off bugs, but I truly can't get over how cute the rest of that sounds. Release date: TBD The follow-up to the charming farming-sim Wylde Flowers, Wylde Society is a prequel that tells the story of former protagonist's Tara's great-great aunt Vivian. Whereas Wylde Flowers saw you manage a homestead, Studio Drydock's newest title focuses on socialization, as Vivian must navigate being a witch, a socialite, and the owner of a boarding house. With Bridgerton vibes, seances, magic creatures, and romance, Wylde Society already seems bewitching. Release date: TBD Upvote Leave Blank

Salah nervelessly converted a 63rd-minute penalty, his 16th goal of the season, after French referee Benoit Bastien had been advised to take another look at Donny van de Beek’s clumsy challenge on Luis Diaz. In the process, he became just the 11th man to score 50 goals in the competition – Real Madrid’s Kylian Mbappe later also joined that exclusive club – on a night when victory at the Estadi Montilivi meant the six-time European champions will enter 2025 sitting proudly at the top of the table. ⭐️ A FIVE STAR PERFORMANCE ⭐️ #FCBayern #MiaSanMia | #SHAFCB #UCL pic.twitter.com/WELoxugaGn — FC Bayern (@FCBayernEN) December 10, 2024 France international Michael Olise produced a moment of magic to set the seal on Bayern Munich’s demolition of Shakhtar Donetsk and ease them towards the knockout stage. Olise’s brilliant stoppage-time run and finish capped a 5-1 victory for the Germans, in which he had early scored from the penalty spot, in Gelsenkirchen. Kevin’s fifth-minute strike had given the home side the perfect start, but Konrad Laimer levelled before Thomas Muller’s 55th goal in the competition sent the visitors in ahead at the break and set the stage for Olise’s double either side of Jamal Musiala’s strike. Jude Bellingham breathed life back into Real Madrid’s campaign as they held off Atalanta to earn a 3-2 victory in Bergamo. 🫲 @BellinghamJude 🫱 #UCL pic.twitter.com/jTynK04akR — Real Madrid C.F. 🇬🇧🇺🇸 (@realmadriden) December 10, 2024 After Charles De Ketelaere had cancelled out Mbappe’s opener from the penalty spot, second-half goals from Vinicius Junior and Bellingham in quick succession put the visitors in charge, although Ademola Lookman’s 65th-minute strike meant the contest was alive until the final whistle. Ross Barkley took Aston Villa a step closer to automatic qualification with a late winner against RB Leipzig in Germany. Villa had led twice through John McGinn and Jhon Duran, but equalisers from Lois Openda and Christoph Baumgartner kept Leipzig in it until substitute Barkley struck five minutes from time to snatch a 3-2 victory. Goals from Goncalo Ramos, Nuno Mendes and substitute Desire Doue – his first in the competition – handed French champions Paris St Germain a much-needed three points after a comfortable 3-0 win at RB Salzburg. He's making a list and checking it twiceB04 won and Nordi scored – nice! 🎅 pic.twitter.com/8bs6FGUaHz — Bayer 04 Leverkusen (@bayer04_en) December 10, 2024 Nordi Mukiele left it late to end Inter Milan’s unbeaten Champions League record as Bayer Leverkusen claimed a dramatic 1-0 victory at the BayArena. Mukiele struck in the 90th minute to inflict a first defeat across six games in this season’s competition on the Serie A champions – it was also the first goal they have conceded. Casper Nielsen came off the bench to fire Club Brugge to a 2-1 home victory over Sporting Lisbon after Eduardo Quaresma’s own goal had handed them a way back into the game following Geny Catamo’s early opener. Julien Le Cardinal’s first-half strike was enough to handed Brest a 1-0 victory over Eredivisie leaders PSV Eindhoven, while Kasper Schmeichel’s save from Marko Pjaca’s close-range 80th-minute header ensured Celtic returned from Dinamo Zagreb with a 0-0 draw.

South Korean President Yoon Suk Yeol on Wednesday said he would lift martial law just hours after he imposed it, in a brief and confusing episode in which he blasted the opposition as "anti-state forces" threatening the country's democracy. The unexpected move from Yoon -- the first time martial law had been declared in South Korea in more than four decades -- alarmed the United States and the country's other allies. What do we know about the imposition, its lifting and what might come next? In a dramatic, late-night emergency television address to the nation, Yoon announced that he was imposing martial law, as he accused the opposition of paralysing the government with "anti-state activities". A six-point decree from the new martial law commander, army chief General Park An-su swiftly followed, banning political activities and parties, "false propaganda", strikes and "gatherings that incite social unrest". The order also brought all media outlets under the authority of martial law and directed all medical staff, including striking doctors, to return to work within 48 hours. Security forces sealed the National Assembly, helicopters landed on the roof and troops entered the building for a short time, seemingly in a bid to prevent lawmakers from getting inside. But 190 lawmakers managed to enter and voted unanimously to reject Yoon's declaration and call for martial law to be lifted. Outside, hundreds of protesters gathered, many raising chants calling for Yoon to be arrested. Following the lawmakers' vote, Yoon backed down. His cabinet additionally approved the motion to lift the order, Yonhap news agency reported. "Just a moment ago, there was a demand from the National Assembly to lift the state of emergency, and we have withdrawn the military that was deployed for martial law operations," Yoon said in a televised address around 4:30 am (1930 GMT Tuesday). Under South Korea's constitution, the parliamentary vote to lift martial law has to be respected. Yoon said he was acting to safeguard his country's liberal democracy from "anti-state elements" and "threats posed by North Korea" -- but gave little detail. While unexpected, the announcement came in the context of a festering budget row between Yoon and the opposition Democratic Party. The opposition has slashed around 4.1 trillion won ($2.8 billion) from Yoon's proposed 677 trillion won budget for next year, prompting the president to complain that "all key budgets essential to the nation's core functions" were being cut. "What is clear is that Yoon has been a deeply unpopular, ineffectual leader and he is having a hard time getting any kind of public support for anything he's trying to do," said Alan Yu, a former US diplomat in Asia now at the Center for American Progress. "The use of martial law feels almost like a desperation move to try to break out, both in a political and policy sense, but it is really poorly played on both fronts." Domestically, pressure has only grown further on Yoon after his late-night bombshell. South Korea's main opposition party has demanded that Yoon step down, accusing him of "insurrection". The country's main labour union group has also called an "indefinite general strike" until he resigns over the "irrational and anti-democratic measure". Yoon's own People Power Party described his attempt at imposing martial law as "tragic" and demanded that those involved be held accountable. South Korea is a key Western ally in Asia, seen as an important democratic bulwark in a region dominated by authoritarian regimes, and the drama is being watched with concern. Washington said it was "relieved President Yoon has reversed course" on his martial law order. Earlier, Britain and Germany both said they were closely following developments. China, a key ally of nuclear-armed North Korea, urged its citizens to exercise caution, while Russia -- itself increasingly close to Pyongyang -- called the situation "alarming". burs-pdw-bfm-hmn/cwl

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TORONTO - The Winnipeg Jets had payback on their minds and top spot in the National Hockey League in their final game before the holiday break. The Jets made good on both accounts with a 5-2 win against the Toronto Maple Leafs before 18,923 at Scotiabank Arena on Monday. The win avenged a 6-4 home loss to Toronto on Oct. 28, that halted the Jets’ eight-game win streak to begin the season. It also pushed the Jets into first overall. “They don’t hand out awards at Christmas, but obviously, we’re happy,” said Jets centre Mark Scheifele, who enjoyed a three-goal, four-point outing. “It’s good to get a couple of days off, get recharged and get going for the next half of the season.” Surprisingly, the Jets (25-10-1) are only one point ahead of the 36-game pace of 23-9-4 set a year ago. “We’ve been good from top to bottom and we need everybody in this group,” said Kyle O’Connor, who scored the Jets first two goals and helped set up Scheifele for his first of three third-period goals. “I just think our ability to roll over lines and be hungry, and not to be satisfied with anything. We also have taken a day-to-day approach, learning what we can improve on from wins and losses and implementing the adjustments.” Besides defeating the Maple Leafs after what transpired in late October, Scheifele had extra motivation after being left off Canada’s roster for the 4 Nations Face-Off in February. In the 10 games since Canada’s roster was announced, Scheifele has eight goals and 15 points. “You’re disappointed, but at the end of the day, you just want to play well for your group of guys,” Scheifele said. “There’s always a bit of motivation you can draw from in every game. But it’s just a matter of playing good for the Winnipeg Jets and controlling what I can control.” He also enjoys playing in Toronto, an hour from his hometown of Kitchener. “I love coming to Toronto to have the opportunity to play in front of a lot of friends and family,” Scheifele said. “Being so close to home, I get a little extra excited to play here. “I think the biggest thing is we didn’t play our best when we played them last. We were excited to get another crack at them and how them the game we can play. All in all, it’s a big win for us.” MATTHEWS STILL OUT WITH INJURY While the Jets enter the Christmas break with back-to-back wins, the Maple Leafs dropped their second in a row at home without wounded captain Auston Matthews, out with an upper-body injury. “We just have to clean up some things off the rush, the transition part especially against a team that’s obviously very good with their top line that takes advantage of time and space,” said Maple Leafs centre John Tavares, who scored both Toronto goals. The Maple Leafs have gone 7-4-0 with Matthews on the sidelines this season and 42-23-2 in his career. Toronto was also missing defenceman Chris Tanev, out day-to-day with a lower-body ailment. Tanev missed his first game after skating in the pre-game warm-up. This report by The Canadian Press was first published Dec. 23, 2024.Timothée Chalamet thanked Bob Dylan for the shoutout after the legendary singer-songwriter praised his new biopic A Complete Unknown . “Floored. I am so grateful. Thank you Bob,” Chalamet posted on X . The film, set to be released on Dec. 25, stars Chalamet as a young Dylan. “Timmy’s a brilliant actor so I’m sure he’s going to be completely believable as me. Or a younger me. Or some other me,” Dylan posted on X . Though Dylan didn’t share if he’s seen the film yet, he did recommend the book the biopic is based off of. “The film’s taken from Elijah Wald’s Dylan Goes Electric – a book that came out in 2015. It’s a fantastic retelling of events from the early ‘60s that led up to the fiasco at Newport,” he added. “After you’ve seen the movie read the book.” Dylan also gave a nod to the film’s title, A Complete Unknown , which references lyrics from Dylan’s 1965 song “Like a Rolling Stone.” “What a title!” he wrote. The slain UnitedHealthcare CEO had a criminal record for drunk driving and was secretly separated from his wife for years before he was shot dead in Manhattan on Wednesday, according to public records. Minnesota court filings show that in 2017 Brian Thompson was arrested and convicted on charges of fourth-degree driving while impaired, for which he received probation. In addition to legal troubles, the executive, who was gunned down in what NYPD has labeled a “premeditated, pre-planned, targeted attack,” also seems to have faced recent marital issues. Based on property records, voter registration forms, and reports from neighbors, Brian and Paulette Thompson had lived in different homes less than a mile apart in Maple Grove, Minnesota, for the past several years, The Wall Street Journal reported . In 2018, Thompson bought a five-bedroom second house for around $1 million, while his wife’s residence remained in another house nearby, also worth about $1 million, based on Zillow listings and public records. Paulette Thompson told MSNBC her husband had received threats related to his company’s “lack of coverage” and said in a statement to a local Fox affiliate in Minnesota that his killing had left her and their two sons “shattered.” About 12 hours after his killing, someone made a bomb threat at his Minnesota home, but authorities did not find any evidence of explosives, TMZ reported . UnitedHealthcare and the Hennepin County District Court did not immediately respond to a Daily Beast inquiry about Thompson’s DUI. If you’re trying to pick up gifts for the loved ones on your list, here’s a tip: everyone appreciates the gift of softer and more manageable hair and skin. The Avon Company, North America has been in the beauty industry for over a century and stocks some of the trendiest skin care, fragrances, and personal care items on the market. These curated picks ensure your giftee will be glowing even on the dullest winter day. This moisturizer tackles one of winter’s biggest annoyances—chapped lips. It has a hydration-boosting formula that counteracts dry air while visibly softening lips and adding a glossy hint of color. Free Shipping Cold air strips away the skin’s natural moisture, which leads to cracking and flaking. The Beyond Glow Serum uses vitamin B3 to strengthen the skin’s barrier against colder temperatures and even out skin tone. Free Shipping This replenishing hair mist uses rice water—a popular traditional beauty treatment in Asia—to revitalize and nourish dull and damaged hair. Free Shipping If you buy something from this post, we may earn a small commission. A top health insurance provider has scrapped a controversial plan to limit anesthesia coverage for surgical patients in at least one state. Anthem Blue Cross Blue Shield will no longer try to implement the much-ridiculed cap—which would have required patients to pay out-of-pocket for any anesthesia administered after their surgery went over an arbitrary time limit—on plans in Connecticut, the state’s comptroller, Sean Scanlon, shared Thursday. “After hearing from people across the state about this concerning policy, my office reached out to Anthem,” he said in a statement. “I’m pleased to share this policy will no longer be going into effect here in Connecticut.” The controversial plan was announced last month for customers in Connecticut, New York, and Missouri. The pending policy went viral on Wednesday, however, after the CEO of UnitedHealthcare, Brian Thompson, was gunned down in Manhattan in a “targeted attack.” It remains unclear if the cap will still go into place next year for New Yorkers or those in the Show Me State. Anthem is yet to say what drove it to pull its plan in Connecticut. Bill Lawrence, creator of Scrubs , is currently developing a reboot of the widely loved sitcom for ABC, Variety reported. Despite having a deal with Warner Bros. Television, the studio is reportedly carving out space for Lawrence to work on the show. Citing a source familiar with the matter, Variety adds that Lawrence will not be serving as the reboot’s showrunner if it gets fully greenlit. Cast members have also yet to be attached, and no other deals for the reboot are reportedly in place. Running for nine seasons between 2001 and 2008, Scrubs followed the daily hijinks of a hospital staff and starred Zach Braff, Donald Faison, Sarah Chalke, Judy Reyes, Ken Jenkins, John C. McGinley, and Neil Flynn. A reboot of the show has been thrown around for some time, with Lawrence sharing at a 2022 ATX Festival panel , “We’re gonna do it, you guys know. If you ever have an excuse to work with people you want to spend time with anyway, run to it.” Lawrence also famously created or co-created series like Cougar Town , Ted Lasso , and Shrinking . Scouted selects products independently. If you purchase something from our posts, we may earn a small commission. It’s not every day that you can score a deal on a high-quality printer at a lower cost. Investing in a quality printer for your home or office is a game-changer, and while it’s not the most fun purchase, it’ll pay for itself in a couple of months. Fortunately, you don’t have to pay full price for a solid printer, thanks to HP’s current sale . Right now, you can score the HP Envy Inspire 7955e , the brand’s premium at-home photo printer for $70 off. If you’re looking for a solid holiday gift that they’ll actually use, the deluxe multi-purpose printer is a great choice—especially for photographers and anyone who works from home. The all-in-one printer is also designed with HP’s Wolf Essential Security system to keep your information secure and keep hackers out. Plus, unlike other printers that require you to get your hands dirty to replenish the ink, this one offers a 15-second mess-free ink refill experience with bottles that can be plugged into the tank. Say goodbye to messes and hello to your new printer . Best of all? For a limited time, score three months of Instant Ink with HP+. Adrian “Woj” Wojnarowski has revealed that he was diagnosed with prostate cancer months before his shock retirement from ESPN . The NBA insider’s decision to quit his high-paying job in September at the age of 55 to become general manager of his alma mater St. Bonaventure’s basketball program took the sports world by surprise. But in an interview with Chris Mannix of Sports Illustrated , Wojnarowski explained why he wrote in his retirement statement: “Time isn’t in endless supply and I want to spend mine in ways that are more personally meaningful.” “That was about the cancer,” he said. He was told he had early-stage cancer in March, minutes before an appearance on NBA Countdown . He added that the cancer didn’t force his hand but gave him more clarity on what he wanted to do with the rest of his life. “I didn’t want to spend one more day of my life waiting on someone’s MRI or hitting an agent at 1 a.m. about an ankle sprain,” he said. Wojnarowski said he now had no symptoms and that the cancer was “pretty limited in scope.” -30- pic.twitter.com/bFeFL61s1c A 7.0-magnitude earthquake struck Northern California on Thursday morning, briefly triggering a tsunami warning for nearly 5 million people . The earthquake hit at 10:44 a.m. PST west of Petrolia, California in the Pacific Ocean, the US Geological Survey said. A 5.8-magnitude aftershock was recorded minutes later near Cobb, California, and several other apparent aftershocks between 2.5 to 4.2 magnitude followed. A tsunami warning issued for parts of the Northern California and Oregon coastlines, however, was called off by the early afternoon. California officials are responding to earthquake activity Gov. Gavin Newsom said in a post on X . The California Governor’s Office of Emergency Services is said to be coordinating with local officials in Humboldt and Lake counties, where significant earthquake activity was reported. More than 10,000 Humboldt County customers are reportedly without power. While no damage has been reported in San Francisco, the city’s Bay Area Rapid Transit, announced it is experiencing significant service disruptions due to the earthquake. Actress Amber Heard has announced that she is expecting her second baby. “It is still quite early in the pregnancy, so you will appreciate that we do not want to go into much detail at this stage,” a spokesman for Heard said Thursday to People . “Suffice to say that Amber is delighted both for herself and Oonagh Paige.” Heard welcomed her daughter in 2021. “I wanted to do it on my own terms,” Heard wrote in a post announcing Oonagh’s birth via a surrogate. “I hope we arrive at a point in which it’s normalized to not want a ring in order to have a crib.” Heard has never commented on who the biological father is. The actress relocated to Madrid, Spain after the highly publicized defamation battle with ex-husband Johnny Depp . Heard told NBC News after the trial in 2022 that she was hoping to focus more on her growing family. “I get to be a mom, like, full time, you know? Where I’m not having to juggle calls with lawyers,” she said. Associates of the right-wing firebrand Ric Grenell sought the help of MAGA influencers to secure him Donald Trump ’s nomination for s ecretary of state . Shortly after Trump’s election victory, an ally of Grenell’s approached conservative social media influencers, offering paid contracts up to five figures to post favorable content about Grenell, Politico reported Thursday. Influencers, the contract stipulated, would post pro-Grenell content and do so during “peak posting times,” ensure that “content must appear genuine,” and not “as an overt advertisement or promotional message.” Grenell denied the alleged influencer conspiracy to Politico. However, his desire for the highly coveted Cabinet position was no secret. Trump’s former ambassador to Germany and acting director of national intelligence spent the past three years reportedly telling people in the president-elect’s orbit that it was secretary of state “or bust.” Despite being one of Trump’s most loyal cohorts, Trump ultimately chose Florida Sen. Marco Rubio to lead the State Department . Grenell is said to have been offered other posts, including director of national intelligence, but has turned the offers down. Scouted selects products independently. If you purchase something from our posts, we may earn a small commission. Apparently, boosting prostate health can actually be pleasurable—at least, that’s what premium sexual wellness brand MysteryVibe says. The Molto, an ultra-slim and bendable prostate vibrator designed by a doctor, is engineered to be the same size and width as a doctor’s finger and to mimic similar motions to that performed during an exam, allowing for not only intense prostate (the prostate is often hailed as the male ‘G-spot’) and anal stimulation but also a release of prostatic fluids. According to the brand, some studies have found that excess prostatic fluid can lead to inflammation and pressure, so not only is this a sex toy , but it’s also possibly an investment in your prostate health. Think of it almost like a lymphatic massage for your prostate—except one that can give you intense orgasms, too. Made with body-safe silicone, the multifunctional and gender-fluid vibrator is powered by one “anatomically-placed” motor that delivers potent yet precise vibration to the anus and prostate without feeling bulky or inflexible. It’s a great sex toy for those new to anal play or who are looking for an ultra-sleek vibrator with possible health-boosting benefits. The prostate vibrator is equipped with 16 vibration settings and eight pre-set vibration patterns, allowing for superior control and customization. Plus, the device comes with access to a catalog of vibration patterns with the free MysteryVibe smartphone app. Best of all? Because the Molto vibrator is an FDA-registered class II medical device, it’s also FSA/HSA eligible. Keira Knightley recalled to the Los Angeles Times how she was subjected to stalkers who told her “you wanted this,” and “this is what you deserve” as a teen, after the success of 2002’s Bend It Like Beckham and 2003’s Pirates of the Caribbean made her famous at 18 years old. “It was rape speak,” Knightley said in the new interview. “They very specifically meant I wanted to be stalked by men,” she continued. “Whether that was stalking because somebody was mentally ill, or because people were earning money from it—it felt the same to me. It was a brutal time to be a young woman in the public eye.” Knightley has been promoting her new Netflix series Black Dove s , in which she plays an assassin and mother with a double-life, but took some time to reflect on that five-year period from 17 to 22 when she was at the height of her fame. “I’m never going to have that kind of success again,” she said, but “It totally set me up for life. Did it come at a cost? Yes, it did. It came at a big cost.” Donald Trump turned to one of his friends in high places to see if his son could become a professional cage fighter, according to a new clip sweeping across the internet. The MAGA commander in chief, 78, was seen in a clip from the documentary series Art of the Surge , which chronicles his re-election campaign, speaking to UFC boss Dana White. His 6-foot-7 son Barron waited in the wings, and cordially introduced himself to a woman out of shot, and then to White. Trump Sr. appears surprised the two hadn’t met before, then asked: “Can we make him into a fighter?” The president-elect got big laughs for his tongue-in-cheek comment—but a cursory head shake from the young man. The clip also caused ripples online as it was the first time a lot of people had heard the New York University student speak. “Barron has his Dad’s speech cadence!” one X user said. NEW: Behind the Scenes on Election Night with @realDonaldTrump . Only in Season 2 of #ArtOfTheSurge . Coming soon. pic.twitter.com/b78HZa4ucVDecember 10, 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 proofread by Ute Kehse, Carl von Ossietzky-Universität Oldenburg In April 2021, two tropical cyclones, Seroja and Odette, collided in the Indian Ocean northwest of Australia. Two researchers from the University of Oldenburg have now studied how this rare phenomenon affected the ocean. According to their case study, the rendezvous caused an unusual cooling of the surface water and an abrupt change in the direction of the combined storm. Since the frequency and intensity of tropical cyclones are increasing as a result of global warming, it is possible that such encounters—and thus more extreme air-sea interactions—will become more frequent in the future, they conclude. Tropical cyclones (TCs) not only whip up air masses in the atmosphere, they also churn up water masses in the areas of the ocean that are in their path. When two cyclones collide and merge, these interactions between the ocean and the atmosphere can intensify considerably, as Prof. Dr. Oliver Wurl and Dr. Jens Meyerjürgens from the University of Oldenburg report in a paper published in the journal Tellus A: Dynamic Meteorology and Oceanography . The two researchers analyzed the encounter between two relatively weak tropical cyclones in the Indian Ocean in 2021, TC Seroja and TC Odette, and found that effects occurred that have otherwise only been observed with much stronger cyclones. Since the frequency and intensity of tropical cyclones is increasing as a result of global warming, this type of convergence—and the resulting extreme interactions between air and sea—could become more frequent in the future, the study concludes. The two tropical cyclones Seroja and Odette came together north-west of Australia in April 2021. To investigate the effects of this unusual rendezvous on the ocean, Wurl and Meyerjürgens combined satellite data and measurements obtained from ARGO floats and autonomous drifters with numerical modeling. These sources provided the researchers with information about factors such as salinity and water temperatures between the sea surface and depths of up to 2,000 meters as well as data about upward and downward (vertical) flow velocities. In addition to these data, they analyzed upward and downward (vertical) flow velocities using data from numerical models. The encounter between the two cyclones lasted for around a week. On 6 April they came within approximately 1,600 kilometers of one another. "Seroja first of all stalled the smaller cyclone Odette and then merged with it three days later," reports Wurl, who heads the research group Processes and Sensing of Marine Interfaces at the University of Oldenburg's Institute for Chemistry and Biology of the Marine Environment in Wilhelmshaven. After the two cyclones merged, TC Seroja abruptly changed course by 90 degrees on 9 April. "This chain of events not only influenced weather patterns but also triggered a previously unobserved interaction with the ocean underneath," Wurl explains. Discover the latest in science, tech, and space with over 100,000 subscribers who rely on Phys.org for daily insights. Sign up for our free newsletter and get updates on breakthroughs, innovations, and research that matter— daily or weekly . The analysis showed that sea-surface temperatures dropped by 3°C as an after-effect of the merging of the cyclones, and deep, cold water masses were churned upwards towards the surface from a depth of 200 meters in a process known as "upwelling." The cooling effect was "exceptionally high" in relation to the cyclones' intensity, the researchers observed. The highest wind speeds of around 130 kilometers per hour were reached on 11 April, after the merging of the cyclones, and corresponded to Category 1 on the Hurricane Scale. The observed cooling and the depth of the upwelling, on the other hand, were of a scale observed in Category 4 or 5 hurricanes. Wurl and Meyerjürgens were particularly surprised by the strength of the upwelling: there were periods when the deep-water masses rose to the sea surface at a speed of up to 30 meters per day. By comparison, the typical upward velocity of the ocean is only between 1 and 5 meters per day. In this specific case, a downward velocity of the ocean was observed shortly before the cyclones merged. "Thanks to satellite technology and autonomous deep-sea ARGO floats, we were able to demonstrate how the rotation of the cyclones transports cold water from the depths of the ocean to the surface," says marine scientist Meyerjürgens. Although encounters between tropical cyclones during their one to two-week lifespan have been rare to date, according to climate models , the number and intensity of tropical cyclones is likely to increase as a result of global warming—and by extension also the likelihood of full-blown hurricane-force cyclones colliding. This could result in "the most extreme interactions between the ocean and the atmosphere," the authors of the paper write. The fact that the merging of two cyclones can lead to an abrupt change of course also makes it more difficult to predict how they will behave afterwards. Wurl also points to another important consequence: "As a result of the interactions of a cyclone with the ocean and the upwelling of cold, deep water, the ocean absorbs additional heat from the air and then transports it to higher latitudes —a crucial process that influences the climate worldwide." In addition, cyclones also convert thermal energy into mechanical energy which they then transport to higher latitudes as they progress. The two scientists will be taking part in an expedition with the research vessel METEOR in the Mediterranean and subtropical Atlantic next year, during which they plan to further investigate these interactions and the connection with extreme weather events. More information: Oliver Wurl et al, Intense Cooling of the Upper Ocean with the Merging of Tropical Cyclones: A Case Study in the Southeastern Indian Ocean, Tellus A: Dynamic Meteorology and Oceanography (2024). DOI: 10.16993/tellusa.4083 Provided byCarl von Ossietzky-Universität Oldenburg

Aaron Rodgers reveals he has a new girlfriend: ‘It’s a good feeling’A flurry of incidents in the news of cybersecurity breeches in recent weeks are a cause for concern, but with a better understanding of cybersecurity need not be our new reality. In the old days, when transacting with your bank it was mostly face-to-face transactions. You would walk into the bank, line up to be served, meet a bank official who would help you transact whatever you wanted. That looks very crude these days where only two in ten transactions are carried out over the counter at PostBank, a statistic that is mirrored across the industry. The adoption of automation and Information Technology (IT) has been good for industry clients, who need not come to the banking hall anymore to transact business, but can carry out their business 24 hours, seven days a week in the comfort of their homes. This increased convenience has improved efficiency on a personal and macro level, driving the economy to new heights. This new convenience has led to an increase in industry metrics, wherever you look be it deposits, lending and increased interaction with financial institutions. Looking back to an earlier time, with less face-to-face contact the incidents of crime or attempted crimes have increased across the industry. Enter cybercrime, defined as illegal activities carried out using computers, networks or the internet. Using your own personal interaction with your bank the shift to digital services has heightened the need to do Know Your Customer (KYC) validations without physical presence. As explained above, this has allowed over the counter interactions to fall precipitously, and the trend is continuing. We can all agree that we are not willing to go back to an earlier slower, less convenient time. That being as it is, the need therefore for beefing up our cybersecurity capabilities is urgent and critical. As a bank whose purpose is to foster prosperity for Ugandans, investing in systems that ensure that customers transact conveniently and in a more secure environment is key. In order to combat this new crime, a better understanding of the threat by industry experts but especially the general public, is important. There are many risks that facilitate cybersecurity, but one major risk are insider threats. These can apply to companies and organisations but also to individuals, where intentionally – someone close to you, who knows your credentials steals your money or unintentionally, where a person is not careful about their personal cybersecurity allowing criminals access. This maybe by being conned into revealing your identity or security credentials. It is naïve to believe that no one would be interested in you because maybe, you have a low income. The way cybercriminals often work is by trying out many people, say hundreds of victims, so if a fraction of these fall for the scam and are relieved of a few thousands, this spread over many people add up. So, for starters, no one is safe. As we go into the festive season should be very careful, especially as the number of online transactions is bound to increase making it difficult for cybersecurity officials to determine which activities constitute cybersecurity breeches. Thankfully there is increasing collaboration within the industry, across the economy and with government to secure our systems to minimize the risk of cybercrime. This is necessary, even critical, because in an increasingly connected world cyber-attack need not and often do not come from near you. Since the crime is global, we are seeing increasing collaboration in a sector where previously financial institutions were content to suffer their losses quietly for fear of reducing confidence in the victim bank. The challenge with this kind of secrecy in the face of this new crime is that the perpetrators can then go and replicate the same scam in another institution without fear of being detected. With greater collaboration we can meaningfully reduce the risk to the industry and our clients. And again, just because we are a relatively poor country, we should never think that the criminals will give us a break. Cyber criminals are always looking for the lowest hanging fruit. They will go to where they believe it is easier to steal money. So, if our systems do not keep up with the times, as a country we are vulnerable to attacks any day, anytime. Increased collaboration to stave off cyber-attacks is not enough. There needs to be a widespread effort to highlight cybersecurity as worthwhile career path. Our rate of connectivity is rushing far ahead of the cybersecurity professionals passing out of our institutions. It is important that that trend is reversed in view of the increasing threats via cyberspace. From a purely nationalistic level can we ensure enough cybersecurity professionals to man our critical systems and eventually take over the sector? Already there is a multisectoral committee being spearheaded by industry regulators such as the central bank to bring our policies and regulations up to speed with this threat. An initiative to subsidize the training of cybersecurity professionals would be very welcome. We should be concerned but not fearful, the difference being if we are concerned, we can take the necessary steps to safeguard ourselves from cyberattacks as opposed to being fearful and paralyzed against taking any action. ****** By PostBank’s Head of ICT Security and Governance, Steven Mwesige.

By WILL WEISSERT, JUAN ZAMORANO and GARY FIELDS PANAMA CITY (AP) — Teddy Roosevelt once declared the Panama Canal “one of the feats to which the people of this republic will look back with the highest pride.” More than a century later, Donald Trump is threatening to take back the waterway for the same republic. Related Articles National Politics | President-elect Trump wants to again rename North America’s tallest peak National Politics | Inside the Gaetz ethics report, a trove of new details alleging payments for sex and drug use National Politics | An analyst looks ahead to how the US economy might fare under Trump National Politics | Trump again calls to buy Greenland after eyeing Canada and the Panama Canal National Politics | House Ethics Committee accuses Gaetz of ‘regularly’ paying for sex, including with 17-year-old girl The president-elect is decrying increased fees Panama has imposed to use the waterway linking the Atlantic and Pacific oceans. He says if things don’t change after he takes office next month, “We will demand that the Panama Canal be returned to the United States of America, in full, quickly and without question.” Trump has long threatened allies with punitive action in hopes of winning concessions. But experts in both countries are clear: Unless he goes to war with Panama, Trump can’t reassert control over a canal the U.S. agreed to cede in the 1970s. Here’s a look at how we got here: It is a man-made waterway that uses a series of locks and reservoirs over 51 miles (82 kilometers) to cut through the middle of Panama and connect the Atlantic and Pacific. It spares ships having to go an additional roughly 7,000 miles (more than 11,000 kilometers) to sail around Cape Horn at South America’s southern tip. The U.S. International Trade Administration says the canal saves American business interests “considerable time and fuel costs” and enables faster delivery of goods, which is “particularly significant for time sensitive cargoes, perishable goods, and industries with just-in-time supply chains.” An effort to establish a canal through Panama led by Ferdinand de Lesseps, who built Egypt’s Suez Canal, began in 1880 but progressed little over nine years before going bankrupt. Malaria, yellow fever and other tropical diseases devastated a workforce already struggling with especially dangerous terrain and harsh working conditions in the jungle, eventually costing more than 20,000 lives, by some estimates. Panama was then a province of Colombia, which refused to ratify a subsequent 1901 treaty licensing U.S. interests to build the canal. Roosevelt responded by dispatching U.S. warships to Panama’s Atlantic and Pacific coasts. The U.S. also prewrote a constitution that would be ready after Panamanian independence, giving American forces “the right to intervene in any part of Panama, to re-establish public peace and constitutional order.” In part because Colombian troops were unable to traverse harsh jungles, Panama declared an effectively bloodless independence within hours in November 1903. It soon signed a treaty allowing a U.S.-led team to begin construction . Some 5,600 workers died later during the U.S.-led construction project, according to one study. The waterway opened in 1914, but almost immediately some Panamanians began questioning the validity of U.S. control, leading to what became known in the country as the “generational struggle” to take it over. The U.S. abrogated its right to intervene in Panama in the 1930s. By the 1970s, with its administrative costs sharply increasing, Washington spent years negotiating with Panama to cede control of the waterway. The Carter administration worked with the government of Omar Torrijos. The two sides eventually decided that their best chance for ratification was to submit two treaties to the U.S. Senate, the “Permanent Neutrality Treaty” and the “Panama Canal Treaty.” The first, which continues in perpetuity, gives the U.S. the right to act to ensure the canal remains open and secure. The second stated that the U.S. would turn over the canal to Panama on Dec. 31, 1999, and was terminated then. Both were signed in 1977 and ratified the following year. The agreements held even after 1989, when President George H.W. Bush invaded Panama to remove Panamanian leader Manuel Noriega. In the late 1970s, as the handover treaties were being discussed and ratified, polls found that about half of Americans opposed the decision to cede canal control to Panama. However, by the time ownership actually changed in 1999, public opinion had shifted, with about half of Americans in favor. Administration of the canal has been more efficient under Panama than during the U.S. era, with traffic increasing 17% between fiscal years 1999 and 2004 . Panama’s voters approved a 2006 referendum authorizing a major expansion of the canal to accommodate larger modern cargo ships. The expansion took until 2016 and cost more than $5.2 billion. Panamanian President José Raúl Mulino said in a video Sunday that “every square meter of the canal belongs to Panama and will continue to.” He added that, while his country’s people are divided on some key issues, “when it comes to our canal, and our sovereignty, we will all unite under our Panamanian flag.” Shipping prices have increased because of droughts last year affecting the canal locks, forcing Panama to drastically cut shipping traffic through the canal and raise rates to use it. Though the rains have mostly returned, Panama says future fee increases might be necessary as it undertakes improvements to accommodate modern shipping needs. Mulino said fees to use the canal are “not set on a whim.” Jorge Luis Quijano, who served as the waterway’s administrator from 2014 to 2019, said all canal users are subject to the same fees, though they vary by ship size and other factors. “I can accept that the canal’s customers may complain about any price increase,” Quijano said. “But that does not give them reason to consider taking it back.” The president-elect says the U.S. is getting “ripped off” and “I’m not going to stand for it.” “It was given to Panama and to the people of Panama, but it has provisions — you’ve got to treat us fairly. And they haven’t treated us fairly,” Trump said of the 1977 treaty that he said “foolishly” gave the canal away. The neutrality treaty does give the U.S. the right to act if the canal’s operation is threatened due to military conflict — but not to reassert control. “There’s no clause of any kind in the neutrality agreement that allows for the taking back of the canal,” Quijano said. “Legally, there’s no way, under normal circumstances, to recover territory that was used previously.” Trump, meanwhile, hasn’t said how he might make good on his threat. “There’s very little wiggle room, absent a second U.S. invasion of Panama, to retake control of the Panama Canal in practical terms,” said Benjamin Gedan, director of the Latin America Program at the Woodrow Wilson International Center for Scholars in Washington. Gedan said Trump’s stance is especially baffling given that Mulino is a pro-business conservative who has “made lots of other overtures to show that he would prefer a special relationship with the United States.” He also noted that Panama in recent years has moved closer to China, meaning the U.S. has strategic reasons to keep its relationship with the Central American nation friendly. Panama is also a U.S. partner on stopping illegal immigration from South America — perhaps Trump’s biggest policy priority. “If you’re going to pick a fight with Panama on an issue,” Gedan said, “you could not find a worse one than the canal.” Weissert reported from West Palm Beach, Florida, and Fields from Washington. Amelia Thomson-Deveaux contributed to this report from Washington.

The Captain Planet Foundation, in collaboration with YFM, hosted a pivotal Planeteer Alliance and Tide Turners plastic policy training session on Saturday, December 14, 2024, at the Airport West Hotel in Accra. The training was designed to equip young individuals with the skills and knowledge needed to become effective environmental stewards, focusing on the development and implementation of policies to manage plastic waste and drive environmental conservation efforts. Bringing together a diverse group of young environmental advocates, the event provided strategic insights into designing impactful plastic waste policies. Participants engaged in interactive group sessions and experiential learning methods aimed at empowering them to take the lead in shaping Ghana’s environmental future. The training underscored the importance of creating sustainable solutions that address the growing challenge of plastic pollution. Leesa Carter-Jones, President and CEO of the Captain Planet Foundation, spoke at the event, highlighting the potential of the participants. “What’s truly exciting is the potential of these young environmental advocates. Our training is not just about teaching skills—it’s about igniting a movement. We’re seeing young people who aren’t just learning, but actively creating solutions that can transform environmental conservation in Ghana and beyond,” Carter-Jones said. The training was led by young Planeteer Alliance leaders who had participated in previous sessions. Ipato Kenta from Kenya and Toluwalase Abiona from Nigeria facilitated the sessions in Ghana, bringing their experience and expertise to the training. Latoya Henry, COO of the Captain Planet Foundation, also supported the event, bridging generational perspectives with her extensive background in environmental advocacy. Toluwalase Abiona expressed his admiration for the creativity of the participants. “What impressed me most was the creativity of the participants. During our group sessions, we saw young people developing technological solutions to environmental challenges. It’s clear that Ghana’s youth are not just aware of environmental issues; they are ready to solve them with ingenuity and passion,” Abiona said. Dr. Timothy Karikari, a Board Member of the Captain Planet Foundation and Leader of the Ghana Planeteers Movement, emphasized the importance of investing in the next generation of environmental leaders. “We stand at a critical juncture where environmental challenges demand innovative solutions and passionate commitment. By investing in these 50 young leaders, we are protecting our future. Each participant here today carries the potential to influence their community, challenge existing practices, and inspire a nationwide conversation about sustainable living.” Dr. Karikari also noted that while Planeteer Alliance is for individuals aged 25 and below, those above 25 with a passion for environmental change can join the Ghana Planeteers Movement as a support group to mentor the younger participants. Ahead of the training, the Captain Planet Foundation and YFM organized a significant beach clean-up initiative at Akoma Village in Accra on Friday, December 13, 2024. The event, supported by Ecozoil Limited, a leading waste management service in Ghana, saw a coalition of volunteers, including local community members, students, and environmental enthusiasts, coming together to remove plastic waste, discarded fishing nets, and other debris from the beach. Other notable leaders who contributed to the event included Lakeisha Sesay, an award-winning public sector strategist and Board Member of the Captain Planet Foundation; Tracy Kyei, Founding Member of the Ghana Planeteers Movement and Marketing Manager at Samsung Ghana; Princess Sekyere, an international communications consultant and founding member of the Ghana Planeteers Movement; Professor Daniel Nukpezah from the Institute of Environment and Sanitation Studies at the University of Ghana; and Anna Sakyibea Bekai, Senior Programme Officer at the Ministry of Environment, Science, Technology, and Innovation. The Captain Planet Foundation remains committed to its mission of inspiring and educating young people globally, turning environmental awareness into tangible action. Established by Ted Turner and Barbara Pyle, the foundation is dedicated to environmental education and empowering youth to become leaders in environmental conservation. Through its innovative programs and global partnerships, the foundation strives to create a sustainable future for the planet.TAMPA, Fla. — Three days after President-elect Donald Trump tapped him to lead the Drug Enforcement Administration, Hillsborough County Sheriff Chad Chronister said late Tuesday that he no longer wants to be considered for the job. The sheriff made the abrupt announcement on social media. “Over the past several days, as the gravity of this very important responsibility set in, I’ve concluded that I must respectfully withdraw from consideration,” Chronister wrote. “There is more work to be done for the citizens of Hillsborough County and a lot of initiatives I am committed to fulfilling.” The sheriff offered no specific details about his reason for withdrawing his nomination. Trump announced Saturday evening that Chronister was his pick to be the administrator for the federal agency in charge of enforcing the nation’s drug laws. The selection, while widely praised, was unusual in that Chronister had spent his career in local law enforcement. The selection came a week after Trump picked Hillsborough County native Pam Bondi, Florida’s former attorney general, to lead the U.S. Department of Justice. Bondi, who began her career as a prosecutor in Tampa , has worked alongside Chronister and would have worked closely with him in his role at the Drug Enforcement Administration. Chronister called his nomination to lead the federal agency the “honor of a lifetime.” Though the nomination drew praise from local law enforcement leaders, some national conservative political figures were questioning the selection by Monday and Tuesday. They noted that in 2020 Chronister arrested a church pastor who refused to abide by COVID-19 lockdown orders. Some also questioned Chronister’s policies and past actions on guns, immigration, protests and other issues. ©2024 Tampa Bay Times. Visit tampabay.com . Distributed by Tribune Content Agency, LLC.

AI is quickly becoming a big part of our world, and Lightchain AI (LCAI) is leading the way by blending artificial intelligence with blockchain technology. With its fresh approach to governance and an attractive presale price of just $0.003, LCAI is ready to make a real difference in the crypto space. What sets it apart is not just the cutting-edge technology, but also its focus on solving real-world problems and a clear, exciting plan for the future. Introduction to Lightchain AI (LCAI) Lightchain AI (LCAI) is a groundbreaking blockchain project that brings artificial intelligence into the world of decentralized applications and governance. With cool innovations like the Proof of Intelligence (PoI) consensus mechanism and the Artificial Intelligence Virtual Machine (AIVM), Lightchain AI is working to make blockchain more efficient, secure, and fair for everyone. LCAI's Innovative Governance Model Lightchain AI (LCAI) brings a new way to run things that gives token holders power through shared choices. This open way makes sure that everyone has a say in how the platform grows, helping clear understanding and group involvement. By mixing smart machines with block chain tech, LCAI's rulesystem changes with new ideas keeping a lively and quick to respond system. This blend of AI and split up rule making puts Lightchain AI at the lead of tech progress. Real-World Utility and Visionary Roadmap Lightchain AI (LCAI) is making blockchain more useful by combining it with the power of artificial intelligence. Whether it’s smart AI tools for decentralized systems or custom solutions for various industries, LCAI is opening up exciting new possibilities for developers and businesses to create and grow in a practical way. These features, driven by the Artificial Intelligence Virtual Machine (AIVM), go beyond speculation, providing tangible benefits for users. Lightchain AI (LCAI) is changing the game in the blockchain world by bringing real-world applications powered by artificial intelligence. With tools for decentralized AI and solutions for different industries, LCAI is offering practical and helpful innovations for both developers and businesses. Thanks to the Artificial Intelligence Virtual Machine (AIVM), it’s all about creating real benefits that users can actually use, making a big impact in the space. Guided by a visionary roadmap, LCAI plans to introduce advanced AI integrations, expand decentralized governance, and foster global adoption. With clear milestones and innovative goals, the platform is set to define the future of blockchain technology. Combining Blockchain with Artificial Intelligence Lightchain AI (LCAI) bridges blockchain and artificial intelligence, creating a platform where decentralized systems benefit from AI-driven efficiencies. By leveraging the Artificial Intelligence Virtual Machine (AIVM), LCAI enhances smart contract performance and enables advanced automation, setting a new benchmark in blockchain technology. Lightchain AI (LCAI) is bringing something new to blockchain by combining it with artificial intelligence. This integration makes it easier for industries to use smart solutions for real-world problems. With a focus on growth and creativity, Lightchain AI is paving the way for future applications, blending two powerful technologies for a brighter tomorrow. Lightchain AI's Potential Growth in the Crypto Market Lightchain AI (LCAI) is set to make a big impact in the crypto market with its smart mix of artificial intelligence and blockchain technology. With cool features like the Proof of Intelligence (PoI) consensus mechanism and the Artificial Intelligence Virtual Machine (AIVM), LCAI is tackling important issues like scalability and efficiency. This makes LCAI an exciting and powerful player in the crypto space! Experts are excited about LCAI’s potential, with some predicting its value could reach $0.50 by 2025, offering big rewards for those who invest early. What makes this even more exciting is LCAI’s real-world impact in areas like healthcare, finance, and logistics, which makes it a great option for a variety of investors looking for long-term growth. Why LCAI is a Top Contender in the Crypto Community Lightchain AI (LCAI) is making waves in the crypto world with its exciting mix of artificial intelligence and blockchain technology. With cool features like the Proof of Intelligence (PoI) consensus mechanism and the Artificial Intelligence Virtual Machine (AIVM), LCAI is all about boosting scalability, security, and efficiency for decentralized apps. It’s an innovative project that’s shaping up to be a game changer in the future of crypto. The LCAI token presale has been creating quite a buzz, raising over $2.2 million and drawing in investors from well-known communities like Solana and Toncoin. If you're interested in getting involved and learning more, be sure to check out the official Lightchain AI website! https://lightchain.ai https://lightchain.ai/lightchain-whitepaper.pdf https://x.com/LightchainAI https://t.me/LightchainProtocol Join our WhatsApp Channel to get the latest news, exclusives and videos on WhatsApp _____________ Disclaimer: Analytics Insight does not provide financial advice or guidance. Also note that the cryptocurrencies mentioned/listed on the website could potentially be scams, i.e. designed to induce you to invest financial resources that may be lost forever and not be recoverable once investments are made. You are responsible for conducting your own research (DYOR) before making any investments. Read more here.

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