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Amber Heard: Blake Lively complaint against Justin Baldoni all too familiar
AI is reshaping digital advertising, bringing with it both new obstacles and great opportunities. More than half of marketers in the region are concerned about how AI-driven ad fraud is harming ad quality, per DoubleVerify's 2024 APAC Report. This increasing concern highlights the need for cutting-edge solutions to address these dangers and safeguard campaign integrity. Speaking at DigiCon Revolution 2024, Tinee Cruz, senior sales director of DoubleVerify Philippines, emphasized the increasing sophistication of ad fraud, particularly in high-value media environments such as Connected TV (CTV) and mobile platforms. Fraudsters now use AI to craft schemes that are harder to detect and target advertisers' investments. Cruz stressed the importance of AI-powered solutions like Fraud AI and Classification AI to mitigate these threats effectively. Register to read this story and more for free . Signing up for an account helps us improve your browsing experience. OR See our subscription options.
Adorable Peanuts Décor for a Holly Jolly Holiday DALLAS , Nov. 26, 2024 /PRNewswire/ -- Spread cheer with Gemmy's charming Peanuts ® Christmas decorations, available at Lowe's. Life-Size Animated Snoopy For tons of festive fun, include the Life-Size Animated Snoopy in your setup. Dressed in a Santa suit, the fuzzy 3.6-ft Snoopy holds an antler-wearing Woodstock and dances to the iconic "Linus and Lucy" tune. Airblown ® Inflatables Make merry moments with Peanuts Airblown ® Inflatables: Yard Décor Enhance your display with adorable Snoopy yard decorations, including a Doghouse Tinsel Sculpture and Blow Mold ! Shop Gemmy's Peanuts collection at Lowe's. About Gemmy Industries Gemmy Industries is a leader in the seasonal décor market, bringing festive fun and holiday cheer to homes everywhere. Dedicated to innovation and creative design, Gemmy has elevated industry standards and established recognizable brands like Airblown ® Inflatable and LightShow ® Lighting. For more information on products and retailers, visit www.gemmy.com . Connect with us on Instagram and Facebook . About Peanuts The characters of Peanuts and related intellectual property are owned by Peanuts Worldwide, which is 41% owned by WildBrain Ltd., 39% owned by Sony Music Entertainment ( Japan ) Inc., and 20% owned by the family of Charles M. Schulz , who first introduced the world to Peanuts in 1950, when the comic strip debuted in seven newspapers. Since then, Charlie Brown , Snoopy and the rest of the Peanuts gang have made an indelible mark on popular culture. In addition to enjoying beloved Peanuts shows and specials on Apple TV+, fans of all ages celebrate the Peanuts brand worldwide through thousands of consumer products, as well as amusement park attractions, cultural events, social media, and comic strips available in all formats, from traditional to digital. In 2018, Peanuts partnered with NASA on a multi-year Space Act Agreement designed to inspire a passion for space exploration and STEM among the next generation of students. View original content to download multimedia: https://www.prnewswire.com/news-releases/celebrate-the-season-with-snoopy-decorations-at-lowes-302316922.html SOURCE Gemmy IndustriesWASHINGTON (AP) — Former President Bill Clinton was discharged from a Washington hospital on Tuesday and will be home for Christmas after he was admitted the day before with a fever . Clinton is being treated for the flu, Angel Urena, Clinton's deputy chief of staff, said in a statement about his release. “He and his family are deeply grateful for the exceptional care provided by the team at MedStar Georgetown University Hospital and are touched by the kind messages and well wishes he received,” Urena said. “He sends his warmest wishes for a happy and healthy holiday season to all,” Urena said. The 78-year-old Democrat was hospitalized on Monday afternoon for testing and observation. Clinton served two terms as president from January 1993 until January 2001. He addressed the Democratic National Convention in Chicago this summer, and campaigned in the fall for Democratic Vice President Kamala Harris , who lost the election to Republican Donald Trump in November. Clinton recently published his newest book, “Citizen,” a memoir about his life after the White House and the role of philanthropy in it.
CHICAGO (AP) — (AP) — Des Watson led Loyola Chicago with 14 points and sealed the victory with a 3-pointer with 32 seconds remaining as the Ramblers knocked off South Florida 74-72 on Saturday. Watson shot 3 for 15 (2 for 8 from 3-point range) and 6 of 8 from the free-throw line for the Ramblers (8-0). Kymany Houinsou scored 12 points while finishing 5 of 7 from the floor and added seven rebounds and five assists. Jalen Quinn had 12 points and shot 4 of 8 from the field and 4 of 4 from the free-throw line. The Ramblers extended their winning streak to eight games. The Bulls (5-4) were led by Jayden Reid, who recorded 23 points, seven rebounds and four assists. Kasen Jennings added 13 points for South Florida. Jamille Reynolds had 12 points, 11 rebounds and four assists. Justin Moore scored six points in the first half and Loyola Chicago went into the break trailing 38-35. Watson scored a team-high nine points for Loyola Chicago in the second half, including their game-winning shot in the final minute. NEXT UP Loyola Chicago next plays Sunday against San Francisco at home, and South Florida will visit Utah State on Saturday. The Associated Press created this story using technology provided by Data Skrive and data from Sportradar .
OTH Network Revolutionizes Influencer Marketing With AI-Powered Platform And Exclusive Black CardCruise into this holiday season with a non-traditional vacation
I studied abroad in France, and since then, I wanted to keep exploring the world. I bought a one-way ticket to Morocco without knowing what to expect. I don't have a dryer or a microwave, and I've adapted to a new way of living. Five years ago, I booked a with no idea of what to expect. I'd spent several months prior opportunities, willing to go almost anywhere. I was surprised at how much I learned about living in my time in Meknes, where I initially lived. My desire to move abroad stemmed from my search for the heightened discovery and immersion that I'd felt when I two years earlier. That semester abroad was my and an experience that opened up the possibility of living abroad longer-term. In my senior year of college, I received job offers for positions in France and Morocco and decided on Morocco — somewhere new, in a part of the world with a culture I'd never experienced before. I planned to live there for a year, the length of my initial contract. When I , the city where I'd be living and working, one of my new coworkers helped me find an apartment within days of my arrival. The apartment I rented didn't have all of the features I was used to — no dishwasher, clothes dryer, or microwave — and yet these amenities that felt so essential in the US didn't seem to matter in this new context. During my first week in my new apartment building, my downstairs neighbors stopped by with a bowl of fresh fruit, then offered to bring a couch from their first-floor apartment up to my fifth-floor apartment when they noticed I hadn't yet bought furniture. People I'd just met were constantly asking what I needed and offering to help as I got settled in. In my initial few months of adjusting to Moroccan culture and lifestyle, I learned from those around me about the best ways to maintain my home, where to run errands, and how to live in a community. Without a dryer, I began to hang my clothes on the rooftop clotheslines. I let the sun do its work, no longer having to worry about clothes shrinking in the dryer or excessive heat wearing down the fabrics. Without a microwave, I reheated leftovers on the stove and found that my food tasted much better when I did so. I shared many meals with others as neighbors invited me over for Friday couscous and tea. When Thanksgiving came, I hosted a dinner with classic Thanksgiving staples: roast meat, mashed potatoes, and pumpkin pie. Despite it being my first big holiday away from home, I felt at home in my newfound community. I realized within my first few months that although the bigger supermarkets were the most convenient for grocery shopping, they weren't where I could get the best food. My grocery runs grew longer — a stop at the bakery for fresh bread, then to the produce stand for fruits and vegetables, then to the corner store to stock up on pantry staples. Despite what some may consider an inconvenience of not having a car and making at least three stops to get what I need for the week, the benefit lies in all of these places being within a 10-minute walk and the relationships I've formed with the shop owners as I come back week after week. Now, I've grown accustomed to the small differences in my daily lifestyle. As time has passed, I've come to understand and appreciate the bigger lifestyle differences as well. Especially around holidays in the US, consumerism dominates our buying culture. Stores regularly cycle out themed decorations and products, reinforcing the idea that we constantly need the trendiest and limited-time-only items. When I began asking friends questions when I needed to fix or buy something in Morocco, I learned that repair and secondhand shops are everywhere. I've taken shoes with worn-down soles to cobblers and clothing with tears to tailors, picking the items up good as new the following week. At least half of my current closet, along with many other household items, is secondhand. Five years and many holidays away from home later, I still host a Thanksgiving dinner every year. Although I still sometimes feel the shift in cultural values between what I grew up with in the US and what I've experienced during my time in Morocco, I've learned what it truly means to live in a community here. I'm grateful for the people that have made Morocco a place I can call home and for everything I learned along the way as one year abroad turned into five — and counting. Read the original article onscored three touchdowns on Saturday for , giving him three chances to send the same message. Skattebo broke out the Heisman Trophy pose after each of his two rushing touchdowns and receiving touchdown in the No. 13 ' No. 16 Iowa State to win the Big 12 Conference championship game and almost certainly earn a spot in the 12-team . SKATTEBO HIT THE HEISMAN POSE 😮💨 — ESPN (@espn) Following the game, Skattebo wanted to deliver a message about how he feels valued around college football: "Nobody respects the fact that I'm the best running back in the country," Skattebo said at his postgame news conference. "I am going to stand on that. If people want to disrespect that, I am going to keep going and I am going to keep proving people wrong." "Nobody respects the fact that I'm the best running back in the country." 🏆Cam Skattebo ( ) makes his Heisman case after hitting the pose three times in the Big 12 Championship after each of his touchdowns. "Let's go. Get me to New York." — Gabriella Chernoff (@gabbyjchernoff) Skattebo had 16 rushes for 170 yards and two scores on the ground and added two catches for 38 yards and a third touchdown. He had runs of 53 and 47 yards in the first half. He had 10 rushes for 140 yards, with 90 coming after contact, in the first half. If the game had not gotten out of hand, he could have threatened Darren Sproles' 2003 Big 12 championship game rushing record of 235 yards. Skattebo has rushed 263 times on the season for 1,538 yards and 19 touchdowns. He has also added 37 catches for 506 yards and three touchdowns. Boise State's Ashton Jeanty, one of the frontrunners for the Heisman Trophy and regarded as the best college football running back this year, has 344 carries for 2,497 yards and 29 touchdowns. Skattebo believes he compares favorably to Jeanty. "Whatever NFL team takes me is going to get a gem," Skattebo said. "And I am going to give it everything I got for them. No matter winning the Heisman or losing the Heisman, I should be in that situation."STOCKHOLM — Physics Nobel Prize winner Geoffrey Hinton and chemistry laureate Demis Hassabis on Saturday insisted on a need for strong regulation of artificial intelligence (AI), which played a key role in their awards. "AI is a very important technology to regulate, but I think it's very important that we get the regulations right, and I think that's the hard thing at the moment is it's such a fast-moving technology," Hassabis told a news conference in Sweden's capital Stockholm. Register to read this story and more for free . Signing up for an account helps us improve your browsing experience. OR See our subscription options."Lorem ipsum dolor sit amet, consectetur adipiscing elit, sed do eiusmod tempor incididunt ut labore et dolore magna aliqua. Ut enim ad minim veniam, quis nostrud exercitation ullamco laboris nisi ut aliquip ex ea commodo consequat. Duis aute irure dolor in reprehenderit in voluptate velit esse cillum dolore eu fugiat nulla pariatur. Excepteur sint occaecat cupidatat non proident, sunt in culpa qui officia deserunt mollit anim id est laborum." Section 1.10.32 of "de Finibus Bonorum et Malorum", written by Cicero in 45 BC "Sed ut perspiciatis unde omnis iste natus error sit voluptatem accusantium doloremque laudantium, totam rem aperiam, eaque ipsa quae ab illo inventore veritatis et quasi architecto beatae vitae dicta sunt explicabo. Nemo enim ipsam voluptatem quia voluptas sit aspernatur aut odit aut fugit, sed quia consequuntur magni dolores eos qui ratione voluptatem sequi nesciunt. Neque porro quisquam est, qui dolorem ipsum quia dolor sit amet, consectetur, adipisci velit, sed quia non numquam eius modi tempora incidunt ut labore et dolore magnam aliquam quaerat voluptatem. Ut enim ad minima veniam, quis nostrum exercitationem ullam corporis suscipit laboriosam, nisi ut aliquid ex ea commodi consequatur? Quis autem vel eum iure reprehenderit qui in ea voluptate velit esse quam nihil molestiae consequatur, vel illum qui dolorem eum fugiat quo voluptas nulla pariatur?" 1914 translation by H. Rackham "But I must explain to you how all this mistaken idea of denouncing pleasure and praising pain was born and I will give you a complete account of the system, and expound the actual teachings of the great explorer of the truth, the master-builder of human happiness. No one rejects, dislikes, or avoids pleasure itself, because it is pleasure, but because those who do not know how to pursue pleasure rationally encounter consequences that are extremely painful. Nor again is there anyone who loves or pursues or desires to obtain pain of itself, because it is pain, but because occasionally circumstances occur in which toil and pain can procure him some great pleasure. To take a trivial example, which of us ever undertakes laborious physical exercise, except to obtain some advantage from it? But who has any right to find fault with a man who chooses to enjoy a pleasure that has no annoying consequences, or one who avoids a pain that produces no resultant pleasure?" 1914 translation by H. Rackham "But I must explain to you how all this mistaken idea of denouncing pleasure and praising pain was born and I will give you a complete account of the system, and expound the actual teachings of the great explorer of the truth, the master-builder of human happiness. No one rejects, dislikes, or avoids pleasure itself, because it is pleasure, but because those who do not know how to pursue pleasure rationally encounter consequences that are extremely painful. Nor again is there anyone who loves or pursues or desires to obtain pain of itself, because it is pain, but because occasionally circumstances occur in which toil and pain can procure him some great pleasure. To take a trivial example, which of us ever undertakes laborious physical exercise, except to obtain some advantage from it? But who has any right to find fault with a man who chooses to enjoy a pleasure that has no annoying consequences, or one who avoids a pain that produces no resultant pleasure?" Thanks for your interest in Kalkine Media's content! To continue reading, please log in to your account or create your free account with us.
When Katja Vogt considers a Jaguar, she pictures a British-made car purring confidently along the Italian coastline — a vision of familiarity that conveys "that dreaming, longing feeling we all love." She's not sure what to think about Jaguar now after the 89-year-old company announced a radical rebranding that featured loud colors and androgynous people — but no cars. Jaguar, the company says, will now be JaGUar. It will produce only electric vehicles beginning in 2026. Bad attention is good attention, Jaguar execs would appear to believe. The car brand has prompted mockery online for posting a glitzy ad without a single car in it. Say goodbye to British racing green, Cotswold Blue and black. Its colors are henceforth electric pink, red and yellow, according to a video that sparked backlash online. Its mission statement: "Create exuberance. Live vivid. Delete ordinary. Break moulds." "Intrigued?" @Jaguar posted on social media. "Weird and unsettled" is more like it, Vogt wrote on Instagram. "Especially now, with the world feeling so dystopian," the Cyprus-based brand designer wrote, "a heritage brand like Jaguar should be conveying feelings of safety, stability, and maybe a hint of rebellion — the kind that shakes things up in a good way, not in a way that unsettles." Jaguar was one of several iconic companies that announced significant rebrandings in recent weeks, upending a series of commercial — and cultural — landmarks by which many modern human beings sort one another, carve out identities and recognize the world around them. Campbell's, the 155-year-old American icon that artist Andy Warhol immortalized in pop culture decades ago, is ready for a new, soupless name. Comcast's corporate reorganization means there will soon be two television networks with "NBC" in their name — CNBC and MSNBC — that will no longer have any corporate connection to NBC News, a U.S. legacy news outlet. CNBC One could even argue the United States itself is rebranding with the election of former President Donald Trump and Republican majorities in the House and Senate. Unlike Trump's first election in 2016, he won the popular vote in what many called a national referendum on American identity. Are we, then, the sum total of our consumer decisions — what we buy, where we travel and whom we elect? Certainly, it's a question for those privileged enough to be able to afford such choices. Volumes of research in the art and science of branding — from "brandr," an old Norse word for burning symbols into the hides of livestock — say those factors do contribute to the modern sense of identity. So rebranding, especially of heritage names, can be a deeply felt affront to consumers. "It can feel like the brand is turning its back on everything that it stood for — and therefore it feels like it's turning its back on us, the people who subscribe to that idea or ideology," said Ali Marmaduke, strategy director with the Amsterdam-based Brand Potential. He said cultural tension — polarization — is surging over politics, wars in Russia and the Mideast, the environment, public health and more, creating what Marmaduke said is known as a "polycrisis": the idea that there are several massive crises converging that feel scary and complex. Campbell's soups "People are understandably freaked out by that," he said. "So we are looking for something that will help us navigate this changing, threatening world that we face." Trump's "Make America Great Again" qualifies. So did President Joe Biden's "Build Back Better" slogan. Campbell's soup itself — "Mmm Mmm Good" — isn't going anywhere, CEO Mark Clouse said. The company's new name, Campbell's Co., will reflect "the full breadth of our portfolio," which includes brands like Prego pasta sauce and Goldfish crackers. None of the recent activity around heritage brands sparked a backlash as ferocious as Jaguar's. The company stood as a pillar of tradition-loving British identity since World War II. The famous "leaper" cat Jaguar logo is pictured in 2019 at the Auto show in Paris, France. Jaguar said its approach to the rebrand was rooted in the philosophy of its founder, Sir William Lyons, to "copy nothing." What it's calling "the new Jaguar" will overhaul everything from the font of its name to the positioning of it's famous "leaper" cat. "Exuberant modernism" will "define all aspects of the new Jaguar world," according to the news release. The approach is thought to be aimed at selling fewer cars at a six-figure price point to a more diverse customer base. The reaction ranged from bewilderment to hostility. Memes sprouted up likening the video to the Teletubbies, a Benetton ad and — perhaps predictably — a bow to "woke" culture as the blowback intersected with politics. Get the latest local business news delivered FREE to your inbox weekly.
By Jennifer Allen Between cooking, cleaning and hosting, the familiar hustle of the holiday season can sometimes feel more hectic than heartwarming. But what if there were a way to embrace the season while leaving the chaos behind? Holiday cruises make all of this possible, offering the perfect getaway that can be tailored to any vibe – blending festive traditions with the excitement of travel. Imagine sipping hot chocolate in the background of the Northern Lights, exploring sun-drenched islands or maybe enjoying a festive dinner on the sea. Whether looking for family-friendly fun, romance for two or peaceful solo travel, holiday cruises deliver a unique celebration unlike any other. On-deck festivities that make the spirits bright Do you want to skip the stress of the season but don’t want to miss out on the holiday cheer? Rest assured, among the most well-known cruise lines, most of them host elaborate holiday festivities that transform their ships into winter wonderlands complete with decorations, entertainment and activities fit for Santa Claus himself. Instead of buying gifts, stressing over what to cook or bake and cleaning over the holidays, Michelle Price of Honest and Truly prefers a holiday cruise for her family. “The ship takes care of everything, from making the beds in the morning to prepping our meals throughout the day. And they have various fun activities to keep us busy,” she says. From towering Christmas trees in the atrium to twinkling lights on every railing, cruises at this time of year are very creative with their festive splendor. Cruises will also complement their aesthetics to match entertainment, including tree-lighting ceremonies, live caroling and holiday movie nights under the stars. Depending on the cruise, you can expect a robust calendar of events with activities like ugly sweater parties, holiday trivia, Santa appearances and even onboard Christmas markets. The holiday wouldn’t feel complete without the food to match, and cruise lines deliver. You can enjoy lavish holiday dinners complete with everything, from the traditional turkey to international Christmas dishes. Some cruises even offer themed buffets with everything, from a turkey carving station to hot and creamy chowders , holiday cocktails, gingerbread-making workshops and seasonal dessert tastings to add fun to the feasts. Why cruises work for every type of traveler Cruises cater to various travelers and take the guesswork out of planning a holiday. Unlike a traditional vacation where you are responsible for your own itinerary, cruises do the hard work for you by planning destinations, offering a wide variety of on-board activities and providing varied experiences that appeal to all. A 2024 survey by Expedia Cruises concluded that 82% of travelers who have cruised before say they would do it again. For families: Stress-free fun for all ages Traveling with the whole family can often feel like an exercise in logistics that leaves you more stressed than you were before your holiday. Holiday cruises simplify this, offering multigenerational activities, family-friendly dining options and flexible accommodations. The Disney Cruise Line, which includes the Very Merrytime Cruises for the holiday season, is popular for offering exciting kid-centric activities like themed crafts, holiday scavenger hunts and character meet-and-greets. These endless options paired with the kids’ or teens’ clubs keep younger travelers entertained while giving their parents peace of mind. When traveling with older family members, consider reaching out to the cruise ahead of time to find out what accessible options they offer. Cruise lines can sometimes accommodate requests that might be better suited for older folks like avoiding stairs or long walks to reach their room. For couples: Romance by the sea Couples can rediscover their magic on holiday cruises that offer intimate moments and tailored experiences. The Romantic Cruises by Princess Cruises stand out because of their private balcony dining and couples’ activities like wine tastings or cooking classes to make hors d’oeuvres . However, many holiday cruises offer specialty experiences like date-night-worthy restaurants, sunset strolls on the deck and shared excursions that are sure to create lasting memories. For couples looking to rest and relax, holiday cruises can provide serene spaces, spa suites and infinity verandas that are perfect for unwinding together. For singles: Celebrate and socialize Cruises provide the perfect atmosphere for singles to mingle and enjoy the holiday season with company. Social events like trivia nights, dance parties and holiday mixers encourage connection and camaraderie. Certain cruises, like the Norwegian Cruise Line and the Virgin Voyages’ Holiday Cruises, cater specifically to solo travelers. These cruises include adult-only entertainment, curated activities and a vibrant nightlife. Rest assured, these cruises provide plenty of holiday entertainment and seasonal activities that ensure you enjoy yourself while staying close to your holiday traditions. How to pick the best cruise for you With over 323 cruise ships currently in operation serving 36 million passengers this year alone, according to photoAiD , how do you choose if you’re a first-time cruiser ? Start by confirming that the cruise is appropriate for the needs of your traveling group. Often, experiences that are tailored for a specific group, whether kids or couples, will be described in the cruise line’s name – take for instance, the Disney Cruise Line. You can also check out the on-board activities available to make sure that there are plenty of options for your company. Related Articles Travel | What to consider when exchanging currency Travel | 8 last-minute Christmas vacations to book in the US Travel | California’s sunny Huntington Beach makes a great weekend getaway Travel | Top travel destinations for 2025 include a real-life Land of the Lotus Eaters Travel | New York state highlights can’t-miss holiday sites and attractions Next, consider your budget. Holiday cruises make luxury accessible without breaking the bank, with options as low as $300 for shorter voyages. Cruises will often provide all-inclusive packages that bundle accommodations, dining, entertainment and travel into a single cost-effective experience. The Carnival Cruise line remains a favorite for budget-conscious travelers because of its fun festivities and great dining options. However, even high-end experiences, like the MSC Cruises’ Yacht Club, which includes amenities like private pools, lounges and butler services come at a fraction of the cost of traditional luxury resorts. Lastly, ask yourself what holiday vibe you’re going for. Are you dreaming of a sunny tropical Christmas or perhaps frosty landscapes? Either way, with thousands of options in December alone, as cataloged by CruiseBooking.com , there’s a cruise waiting for you. The Norwegian Cruise Line’s Caribbean Cruises stop at destinations like the Great Stirrup Cay, while Hurtigruten’s Arctic Expeditions sail through breathtaking fjords and snowy landscapes. Book your Christmas on a cruise Holiday cruises offer a unique way to celebrate the season that’s a guaranteed hit without breaking the bank. Consider leaving behind the stress of hosting and planning; step aboard a ship where every detail has been curated to bring enjoyment and relaxation. With the holidays calling, will you answer with a ticket to set sail? Jennifer Allen is a retired professional chef and long-time writer. Her writing appears in dozens of publications, and she has two cookbooks, “Keto Soup Cookbook” and “Keto Diabetic Cookbook and Meal Plan.” These days, she’s busy in the kitchen, developing recipes for various publications and traveling, and you can find all her best recipes at Cook What You Love .Titans QB Mason Rudolph gets another chance at starting, this time against the JagsDAMASCUS — Insurgents in Syria advanced to the suburbs of Damascus on Saturday, marking a major escalation in their offensive and prompting the government to deny rumors that President Bashar Assad had fled the country. The advances, led by the Hayat Tahrir al-Sham (HTS) group, have drastically reduced government control, leaving it with only four of Syria’s 14 provincial capitals. The insurgents' progress has sparked panic in Damascus, with residents rushing to stockpile essentials and some fleeing to the border with Lebanon. Shops in the capital shuttered, and basic goods sold out or were priced exorbitantly. For the first time since 2018, opposition fighters have reached the outskirts of the city, including areas such as Maadamiyah and Daraya. The rapid offensive has been attributed to minimal resistance from government forces, who have shifted their focus to defending the central city of Homs. HTS has captured key cities such as Aleppo and Hama in recent days and is reportedly encircling Damascus. Diplomatic efforts to address the crisis unfolded in Doha, Qatar, where foreign ministers and senior diplomats from eight nations, including Russia, Iran, and Saudi Arabia, held discussions on Syria's future. U.N. special envoy Geir Pedersen has called for urgent talks in Geneva to implement a political transition, emphasizing the deteriorating situation on the ground. As insurgents continue their push, the Syrian government faces increasing isolation, with Russia and Iran unable to provide the support they once did. Meanwhile, international leaders are urging swift diplomatic action to prevent further destabilization and preserve Syria’s territorial integrity. — Agencies < Previous Page Next Page >
As Americans are beyond burned out, Tricia Hersey’s Nap Ministry preaches the right to restWatson and Loyola Chicago defeat South Florida 74-72
COPPER MOUNTAIN, Colo. (AP) — For a pair of lower-level downhill events, this sure had plenty of Olympic medal-capturing and World Cup-winning ski racers. The stage belonged to Lindsey Vonn , the 40-year-old who took another step on her comeback trail Saturday with her first races in nearly six years. Vonn wasn't particularly speedy and finished in the middle of the pack on a cold but sunny day at Copper Mountain. Times and places weren't the mission, though, as much as getting used to the speed again and gaining the necessary points to compete on the World Cup circuit this season. Vonn accomplished both, finishing 24th in the first downhill race of the day and 27th in the second. She posted on social media after the FIS races that she had enough points to enter World Cup events. The timing couldn't be more perfect — the next stop on the women's circuit is Beaver Creek, Colorado, in a week. Vonn, who used to own a home in nearby Vail, hasn't committed to any sort of timetable for a World Cup return. “Today was a solid start and I had a blast being in start with my teammates again!” Vonn wrote on X . “While I’m sure people will speculate and say I’m not in top form because of the results, I disagree. This was training for me. I’m still testing equipment and getting back in the groove.” Her competition — a veritable who's who of high-profile ski racers — applauded her efforts. “I don't expect her to come back and win — just that she comes back and she has fun,” said Federica Brignone of Italy, a former overall World Cup champion and three-time Olympic medallist. “She's having fun, and she’s doing what she loves. That’s the best thing that she could do.” In the first race on a frigid morning, Vonn wound up 1.44 seconds behind the winning time of 1 minute, 5.79 seconds posted by Mirjam Puchner of Austria. In her second race through the course later in the morning, Vonn was 1.53 seconds behind Cornelia Huetter of Austria, who finished in 1:05.99. Huetter is the reigning season-long World Cup downhill champion. “It’s really nice to compare with her again, and nice to have her (racing) again,” Huetter said. “For sure, for the skiing World Cup, we have a lot of more attention. It's generally good for all racers because everyone is looking.” Also in the field were Nadia Delago of Italy, who won a bronze medal in downhill at the 2022 Beijing Olympics, and Puchner, the Olympic silver winner in super-G in Beijing. In addition, there was Marta Bassino of Italy, a winner of the super-G at the 2023 world championships, and two-time Olympic champion Michelle Gisin of Switzerland. “For me, it was really a training, but it was fun to have a World Cup race level right here,” Gisin said. “It was a crazy race.” Vonn remains a popular figure and took the time after each run to sign autographs for young fans along with posing for photos. When she left the sport, Vonn had 82 World Cup race victories — including 18 in Lake Louise, Alta. — which stood as the record for a woman and within reach of the all-time Alpine record of 86 held by Swedish standout Ingemar Stenmark. The women’s mark held by Vonn was surpassed in January 2023 by Mikaela Shiffrin, who now has 99 wins — more than any alpine ski racer in the history of the sport. Shiffrin is currently sidelined after a crash in a giant slalom event in Killington, Vermont , last weekend. Vonn’s last major race was in February 2019, when she finished third in a downhill during the world championships in Sweden. The three-time Olympic medallist left the circuit still near the top of her game. But all the broken arms and legs, concussions and torn knee ligaments took too big a toll and sent her into retirement. She had a partial knee replacement last April and felt good enough to give racing another shot. “It's very impressive to see all the passion that Lindsey still has,” Gisin said. Also racing Saturday was 45-year-old Sarah Schleper, who once competed for the United States but now represents Mexico. Schleper was the next racer behind Vonn and they got a chance to share a moment between a pair of 40-somethings still racing. “I was like, ‘Give me some tips, Lindsey,’” Schleper said. “She’s like, ‘Oh, it’s a highway tuck, the whole thing.’ Then she’s like, ‘It’s just like the good old days.’" ___ AP skiing: https://apnews.com/hub/alpine-skiing Pat Graham, The Associated PressThe DaVinci Gourmet Barista Craft Competition where Lanz Castillo participated is a clear indication of the steady and continuous growth of the global coffee shop market, which is now projected to reach $200 billion by 2025. In a separate email exchange, Eloise Dubuisson, General Manager of Foodservice Brands at Kerry Asia Pacific, Middle East and Africa, said Asia Pacific is at the forefront of this growth, emerging as a trendsetter rather than a follower. Register to read this story and more for free . Signing up for an account helps us improve your browsing experience. OR See our subscription options.
A 46-YEAR-OLD former model who pleaded guilty to dangerous driving causing the death of a mother of two had consumed 12 alcoholic drinks, which included cocktails, prosecco, wine and gin, in the hours before the crash. Ms Sheila Dunne (50) who was described by her daughter as a “an amazing woman — worth her weight in gold” died following a single vehicle crash in Sarsfield Court in Glanmire in Cork last February. Her husband Ted had died of Covid 19 in February of 2021. The death of Ms Dunne left their two children without any living parent. The special educational needs assistant was just 1.5km from her home in Glanmire when the crash that ended her life occurred. Jennifer Thomas of Oakfield View, Glanmire, Co Cork appeared before Cork Circuit Criminal Court today having pleaded guilty to dangerous driving causing the death of Sheila Dunne on 11 February last. Defence counsel Tom Creed, SC, told Judge Helen Boyle that “unfounded social media rumours” and inaccurate newspaper reports had circulated in the wake of the crash. He said that “malicious rumours” had spread in Cork that the body of Sheila Dunne had been moved in the vehicle. Investigating garda Dt Garda Mark Durcan confirmed that there was no truth to any suggestions that Jennifer Thomas or any other person had moved the body of Sheila Dunne following the crash. Detective Garda Durcan said that the collision occurred at 7.30pm on 11 February last at Sarsfield Court in Glanmire in Cork. Ms Thomas had been socialising with Sheila, her friend of over twenty years, from lunchtime that day when they went for a meal at a restaurant in Douglas in the city. They went to a bar in Blackrock in Cork and then on to a bar in Glanmire prior to getting in to Jennifer’s jeep. Dt Garda Durcan said that in the minutes before the crash occurred, Jennifer fell asleep before the wheel twice whilst stopped at traffic lights. On one occasion, a passerby observed that Jennifer was asleep and knocked on the window of the jeep telling her to park up. Instead she did two U turns in a matter of minutes and drove on the wrong side of the road at Hazelwood Road in Glanmire. She knocked down traffic cones as she drove towards Sallybrook and narrowly missed knocking down two pedestrians on the footpath. Dt Garda Durcan said that Ms Thomas took a left-hand bend at Sarsfield Court in Glanmire and failed to straighten up entering a grass verge. The Bluetooth system in the car automatically called the emergency services. Speed was not a factor in the case. Dt Garda Durcan said that Ms Thomas was wearing her seat beat when the collision occurred. However Sheila Dunne was not. He indicated that the impact of the collision led Sheila, who was in the front passenger seat, to fall on top of Jennifer Thomas. Dt Garda Durcan said that roof had to be cut off the vehicle in order to extricate the women. He stated that when gardai arrived at the scene Jennifer Thomas was asked who was driving. She said that she was and then she “got erratic” and was unable to give a definitive answer. She then said that Sheila Dunne was driving as she had “more control.” When she was shown CCTV at a later date by gardai, Ms Thomas accepted that she was driving. She also said she had no recollection of the collision due to concussion. However, there was no medical evidence of concussion. Ms Dunne died in hospital two days after the crash. Lilley Dunne, the 23-year-old daughter of Sheila Dunne, said in her victim impact statement that she came to court with a “shattered heart” weighed down heavily by the loss of her “rock of a mother” Sheila. Lilley delivered her own victim impact statement and said she would forever miss her precious mother whom she described as a “pillar” in the community. She said that she was speaking on behalf of herself and her younger brother. “I stand before you today as his voice and to outline the devastation we have both endured. I want to try and express as vividly as I can how this tragic event has destroyed my life, my brother’s world and our family unit as we know it.” Lilley said that she and her brother head already suffered the “unbearable” loss of their father Ted. “Now to experience the agonising loss of Mom, feels like a cruel twist of fate that I cannot comprehend. “On 9 February, 2021 my dad died unexpectedly from Covid. We had to watch him take his last few breaths as they removed his ventilator, and then on 13 February, 2024 I had to watch this all over again: watch my Mom’s heart slow to a halt. “This experience is what I can only describe as hell. My beautiful Mom was taken from us far too soon at the young age of fifty. In a car crash caused by a reckless decision made by a selfish individual. This choice has altered our lives forever. “We spent two days at my mom’s bedside hoping for a miracle. Out of respect, I made the decision to allow Jennifer to come in to say goodbye to my Mom. Knowing what I know now my decision would have been different.” Ms Dunne said that Jennifer’s absence of remorse had made the “grieving process so much more challenging.” “It is incredibly painful to know that someone would withhold the truth in such a devastating way and it makes it harder to heal from this loss.” Lilly said that her mother would miss all the special milestones of her life such as her wedding and watching her become a mother.” Ms Dunne insisted that Jennifer’s “malicious lies” trickled out to the “media vultures.” “Compounding our grief. Newspapers and social media outlets covered the story and reported that my Mom was the driver of the car. Jennifer’s complete fabrication painted a picture of my Mom, Sheila, that was far from the truth sensationalising the tragedy and worsening our family suffering.” Ms Dunne added that the life of her mother was “robbed” from her. “She has only started to live her life again after Dad’s passing. She will never get the opportunity to finish her bucket list, to see out the drams she had for her future or to watch TJ and I grow up.” Sheila’s mother Esther O’Brien said that she was “heartbroken” to have lost her daughter to a drunk driver. “This loss has not only shattered my life but has also left two precious grandchildren without their mother. My daughter was my biggest support. She was always there for me, providing love, care and companionship. We shared a deep bond, and she was my confidante, my source of strength. “Losing her has taken away my main support system at a time in my life when I need it most. This is something no mother could anticipate. I grapple with anger and sadness — not just for my daughter but also for the reckless choice that led to this loss. It is hard to trust and feel safe in the world when someone’s selfish decision has had such devastating consequences.” The court heard that Ms Thomas had ten previous convictions for road traffic offences, larceny and misuse of drugs. Defence barrister Tom Creed, SC, said that his client’s previous convictions for larceny and misuse of drugs occurred when she was a teenager. He emphasised that witnesses who arrived at the scene of the crash described his client as being distraught at the possibility that Sheila could have died. “(One eye witness) said she (Jennifer) was saying ‘please wake up please wake up’ to Miss Dunne. They tried to calm her. She (Jennifer) was saying ‘How can I live without her?” She was concerned for her friend. She (Jennifer) was hysterical. She was saying ‘look after Sheila.’ She appeared to be confused.” He said that unfortunately following this accident all sorts of “unfounded allegations” circulated in Cork. “One was that a phone call was made for someone to come to scene to move bodies. One was that she (Ms Thomas) was arrested for a charge of perverting course of justice which was never case. She voluntarily came to the station.” Mr Creed said that his client has suffered from long term mental health difficulties and often wishes that she died during the crash. He added that Ms Thomas was hugely remorseful for her actions. Mr Creed said that his client accepted that getting behind the wheel drunk was an “outrageous” thing to do. Judge Boyle offered her sincere condolences to the family of the deceased. She said that the family had painted a “wonderful picture” of Sheila. Judge Boyle reserved her decision in the case. Sentencing will take place on Thursday. Ms Thomas was remanded in custody pending her sentencing on Thursday. She was warned that she was facing a custodial sentence. Meanwhile, other charges faced by Ms Thomas, including one count of drink driving and three counts of dangerous driving, will remain at the district court as they are deemed to be summary charges. The summary charges consist of allegations that Ms Thomas was under the influence of an intoxicant to such an extent as to be incapable of having proper control of the vehicle at Sarsfield Court, dangerous driving at Hazelwood Road, Sarsfield Court and Sallybrook, and falling to produce her driver’s licence.