
In a foundational step toward leveling the playing field for rural communities statewide, two Colorado rural towns — Kiowa and Elizabeth — are crossing the digital divide to connectivity, courtesy of the (CPF). The (CBO) announced Monday the two communities are the first to benefit from the state’s nearly $1 billion allocation from federal broadband initiatives, including CPF. At the start of this year, the CBO determined which counties across the state would each receive a $113.5 million allocation from the CPF. The CBO identified the counties with the highest need based on the percentage of unserved locations and the percentage of households with broadband subscriptions. Residents can explore a map of funded counties on the CBO’s . Rural areas like Kiowa and Elizabeth have often lagged behind urban communities in accessing high-speed broadband, according to the office’s executive director. “While residents along Colorado’s Front Range enjoy opportunities like remote work, telehealth and online education, rural populations often remain disconnected,” Brandy Reitter, CBO executive director, told . “Addressing this disparity is crucial to ensure everyone can benefit from modern technology , the Internet service provider behind the CPF-funded project in Kiowa and Elizabeth, was chosen through a competitive application process earlier this year. The middle-mile network the company constructed between the two towns laid the foundation for future connectivity opportunities. “Maverix is among many great partners in Colorado’s effort to expand and improve broadband,” Reitter said via email. “This fiber connection can be used for years to come, allowing additional providers to expand broadband in these areas.” The middle-mile network not only increases the number of providers, it enhances competition, ultimately lowering consumer costs. One person using the network described it as beneficial for all involved. “This fiber project is a big deal for the entire county,” Corey Basquez, the first resident connected through the project, in a statement. “It will help residents and businesses with the cost of Internet, and our schools and businesses will benefit from the fiber that is now available.” The new digital infrastructure should have considerable positive impact across the public and private sectors, Reitter said. “Businesses, schools and public services in the area will benefit greatly from the middle-mile network because, in addition to potentially providing better service to these entities, it will also provide much-needed redundancy,” she said. “And redundancy ensures a higher probability that people and organizations can stay online during severe weather events.” CPF funding has set the stage, but Colorado is also gearing up to deploy $826.5 million from the federal program. Part of these funds will support additional middle-mile projects in underserved rural areas, according to Reitter. The state also recently launched a grant program funded by its , allocating $14 million annually with 60 percent reserved for middle-mile projects. “By 2027, Colorado has a goal to improve broadband access by building a network for future generations,” Reitter revealed. “This includes improving adoption by expanding digital inclusion and adoption to achieve affordability, access and digital literacy and building a more resilient network that addresses Colorado’s unique geographic challenges.”RBI Innovation Hub pilots digital unsecured loans for gig workersSoccer's global allure is unmatched, yet its history is shadowed by tragedies. At a recent soccer match in Nzérékoré, Guinea, a controversial refereeing decision led to unrest, resulting in crowd violence that claimed more than 50 lives. In 2022, violence at Indonesia's Kanjuruhan stadium during a match led to the deaths of 135 people, as security forces responded to pitch invasions with tear gas, triggering chaos and ultimately a crowd crush. These incidents are stark reminders of the risks tied to violence in sports crowds. They stem from structural failures, poor crowd management, and often complex group dynamics that lead to violent behaviour. Soccer crowds are especially prone to violence, which raises a pressing question: what is it about soccer and its fan culture that makes such incidents more likely to occur? À lire aussi : Dedicated Roman gladiator superfans were the football hooligans of their day Soccer fan violence: a recurring pattern Catastrophic incidents rooted in fan violence have been intertwined with the history of this sport. Perhaps the most extreme case is the Soccer War (more commonly known as the Football War) of 1969, when World Cup qualifiers between El Salvador and Honduras inflamed existing political tensions. Clashes between fans added to the animosity, and within days, the two nations were at war. More than 2,000 people died in the brief conflict. There are other cases throughout the history of the game: Estadio Nacional Disaster (1964, Peru) – Riots broke out after a disallowed goal during a Peru-Argentina match in Lima. Police used tear gas, causing chaos as fans tried to escape through locked exits. More than 300 people died. The Heysel Stadium Disaster (1985, Belgium) – Clashes between Liverpool and Juventus fans before the European Cup final caused a wall to collapse. Thirty-nine people were killed and more than 600 were injured. Port Said Stadium Riot (2012, Egypt) – After a match between Al-Masry and Al-Ahly, fans...None
Some Norfolk Planning Commission members and the Park Place Civic League president are opposed to a planned 154-unit affordable housing development in the city's Midtown. While more affordable housing is sorely needed in Norfolk, critics of the plan say it would unfairly burden a neighborhood with a disproportionate share of low-income housing.
Article content ‘Tis the season to buy tech toys, whether it’s to gift to loved ones over the holidays or perhaps treat yourself to something you’ve had your eye on. Recommended Videos Especially following a year of gouging grocery prices, shrinkflation and high interest rates, millions of Canadians have been waiting for bargains on Black Friday (Nov. 29) and Cyber Monday (Dec. 2) to spend their cash. The good news is you don’t need to wait until next weekend for door-crashers, as many tech brands and retailers have already announced early Black Friday sales, to move inventory for keen-eyed early birds. The following is a look at a half-dozen tech and gaming recommendations, in terms of quality and price, and where to score the short-term savings. Samsung Galaxy S6 Lite Tablet Now: $229.97 Was: $449.99 Where: Amazon.ca Those who want a stellar tablet without breaking the bank should consider the 10-inch Samsung Galaxy S6 Lite (2024 Version; 64GB), an Android-powered, grey-coloured tablet that includes an “S Pen” (stylus). Thin and light, and with a battery that lasts up to 15 hours, expect a colourful screen, dual speakers, and two cameras (8-megapixel rear cam and 5-megapixel front-facing cam for video calls). If 64GB of storage isn’t enough to download apps and games from the integrated Google Play store, there’s a microSD card slot to expand the memory up to 1 terabyte (about 1,000 gigabytes). Good thing there’s also a fire sale on the high-speed SanDisk 512GB Extreme microSDXC Memory Card with Adapter, down to $50.99 from $119.99 (58% off) at Amazon.ca. Apple AirPods Pro (2nd Gen) with USB-C MagSafe Case Now: $238.99 Was: $329.99 Where: Staples Great sound, a comfortable design and great battery life: The 2nd Gen wireless AirPods Pro features “Adaptive Audio,” which automatically provides the optimal listening experience depending on where you are, dynamically switching between Active Noise Cancellation (to block out ambient sounds near you) and Transparency mode (when you need to better hear what’s going on – ideal for pedestrians). Powered by Apple’s H2 chip, audio performance is greatly enhanced, delivering well-balanced and distortion-free lows, mids and highs. Along with “Hey Siri” hands-free support, there’s touch controls, and up to six hours of battery life (with Active Noise Cancellation enabled). These weatherproof earbuds include four pairs of silicone tips for a custom fit, and USB-C MagSafe-supported charging case. LG 4K UHD LED Smart TV (UQ7070) Now: $598.00 Was: $848.00 Where: Walmart While there are less expensive TVs, sure, if you’ve been saving for an LG model, Walmart has dropped the price of this 50-inch Smart TV by $250. Along with its 4K picture and supporting high-dynamic range (HDR10) – for a boost in colour, contrast and brightness – LG’s TruMotion 120 tech reduces blurs for fast-paced sports, action movies and video games by doubling the standard 60 frames per second. This Smart TV is powered by the webOS 22 platform for a huge app store, reliable connectivity, and several customization features – aided by the Alpha 5 (Gen 5) AI processor. This slender, wall-mountable TV is also compatible with Google Home, Amazon’s Alexa and Apple HomeKit, for even more control and compatibility with your smart home. ASUS ROG Strix G13 Gaming PC Now: $1199.99 Was: $1,699.99 Where: Best Buy Currently $500 off, the ASUS ROG Strix G13 Gaming PC delivers a lot of bang for the buck, thanks to its Intel Core i5-14400F processor, NVIDIA GeForce RTX 4060 graphics (with 8GB video memory) and 16GB of RAM (system memory). To store all your games, a 1-terabyte solid state drive provides capacity and speed. The see-through tower gives a glimpse into the coloured LED-lined guts of the machine, which looks great in a dark room, while an air cooling system prevents overheating. Other features include immersive high-definition 7.1 channel audio and 8 USB ports (USB-A and USB-C) to connected accessories. Like most desktop PCs, a monitor is not included. Those who want one of the buzzworthy “AI PCs” could snag up to $200 off on a 1.1cm-thin ASUS Zenbook S 14 laptop, powered by an Intel Core Ultra Series 2 processor, built-in CoPilot+ and battery life that exceeds 20 hours. Razer Viper V2 Pro 3200 DPI Wireless Gaming Mouse Now: $99.99 + free Razer mousepad Was: $189.99 Where: Best Buy Competitive online players know all too well the gear they use could mean the difference between winning and losing – and a fast mouse is one of the most important considerations. Don’t compromise on response time and latency with the Razer Viper V2 Pro, a wireless optical gaming mouse featuring 2.4GHz HyperSpeed technology and 3200 dpi (dots per inch) precision, resulting in cutting-edge performance. This should help boost your “E/D ratio” in Call of Duty: Black Ops 6. Weighing just 58 grams, this Razer mouse has a rechargeable battery that lasts up to 80 hours on a single charge. Speaking of games, Ubisoft Canada has a Black Friday sale on virtually all games, including $22 off the awesome Star Wars Outlaws – now for $67.49 instead of $89.99 (25% off). ViewSonic 15.6′′ FHD Portable Gaming Monitor Now: $179.99 Was: $229.99 Where: CanadaComputers.com The ViewSonic VX1654 Portable Gaming Monitor is a super thin and light 15.6-inch Full HD display, on a kickstand, that you can plug into a laptop, mobile device, or game console. And you get both mini-HDMI and USB-C cables in the box – the latter of which also carries power over the wire, and so for most devices, like a laptop and tablet, the screen powers up immediately (no need to plug it into a socket). For laptop users, choose to extend or mirror your main display. For gamers on the go, this anti-glare IPS monitor is fast, too, with a powerful 144Hz refresh rate and with AMD FreeSync technology. When you’re ready to move, at just 700 grams (about 1.5 pounds), you won’t even feel it in your bag or backpack – and it includes a protective zip-up sleeve, too. – Marc Saltzman is the host of the Tech It Out podcast and the author of the book, Apple Vision Pro For Dummies (Wiley).
TSS Inc. COO Karl Marrott sells $606,309 in stockAnoto Announces Outcome Of Rights Issue
UCL: Man City blow 3-0 lead to draw FeyenoordInsurgents reach gates of Syria’s capital, threatening to upend decades of Assad ruleKuwait Times inspires future journalists during school visitStacy Fernández is a freelance writer, project manager and communications specialist. She’s worked at The Texas Tribune, The Dallas Morning News and run social for The Education Trust New York. Her favorite hobby is finding hidden gems at the thrift store, she loves a good audio book and is a chocolate enthusiast.
SINGAPORE: Donald Trump’s victory at the 2024 US election has been met with trepidation by environmentalists around the world , given his track record of dismantling environmental regulations and driving increased oil and gas extraction. Trump’s comeback to the White House will likely throw a spanner in climate action both domestically and internationally. In 2017, he withdrew the United States from the Paris Agreement to limit global warming to 1.5 degrees Celsius. There are concerns that he would do the same when he takes office. Some measures in the US that are expected to see rollbacks include incentives and subsidies for clean energy such as wind and solar, and the Environmental Protection Agency’s rules against coal-powered electric plants, methane emissions and tailpipe emissions. Oil drilling in Alaska’s wildlife refuge will likely re-commence under Trump’s administration. As the largest carbon polluter historically, the United States has a responsibility to reduce its emissions - but this will not be met when Trump embraces aggressive fossil fuel drilling and burning. US CLIMATE LEADERSHIP IS DEBATABLE Even without the Trump administration acknowledging human-driven climate change, extreme weather events have cost the United States a whopping US$24 billion in 2024 . Hurricane Helene and Hurricane Milton struck the south of the country in a span of two weeks, killing dozens and destroying homes. Such disasters will become more intense, frequent and costly as temperatures rise. US President Joe Biden has also been criticised for not doing enough to combat climate change. The Biden administration issued 20 per cent more oil and gas licenses than Trump in his first term, revealing the hypocrisy of heavy fossil fuel investments despite its supposed climate commitments. Biden did not attend the COP29 talks at Azerbaijan, passing up the chance to assert the US’ climate leadership in the last year of his presidency. Already, the US$300 billion COP29 deal to help developing countries mitigate and adapt to global warming has been criticised as insufficient, compared to the several trillions needed by 2030. And it is certainly unremarkable when compared to record-high US$7 trillion worth of subsidies the fossil fuel industry received in 2022. But these developments may not be all doom and gloom when it comes to climate action. CHINA LIKELY TO STEP UP While the US falls behind on climate action, other countries are stepping up. Even if the US exits from the Paris Agreement, as it did in 2016, climate targets and negotiations will continue, with China stepping up to lead the global energy transition. Progress in climate financing, the key agenda at this year’s COP, has admittedly faced setbacks in terms of contributions from wealthy developed countries. But widening the donor pool to emerging economies such as China and oil-rich states could help if America pulls out from the agreement. China is increasingly positioning itself as a climate leader, evident through its climate partnerships with countries such as Australia, France and Germany. As part of its cooperation with the African Union, China is involved in more than 120 climate projects throughout the continent. Closer to home, China has partnered with Southeast Asian countries on technology exchanges and environmental monitoring applications. Having ratified the Paris Agreement and the UN 2030 Agenda for Sustainable Development, China has the potential to advance emerging energy technologies. If the US falls back on global climate cooperation and investment, China and other states will fill the gap. IMPLICATIONS ON SOUTHEAST ASIA’S ENERGY TRANSITION In a tense political climate rife with US-China rivalry, climate action can be a key issue that fosters or reduces grounds for cooperation. On one hand, Southeast Asia presents an opportunity for the US to grow its investments in the region’s green energy transition. The Association of Southeast Asian Nations (ASEAN) has set a renewable energy target of 23 percent by 2025 in total primary energy supply. Under the Biden Administration, there was some progress between the US and ASEAN on climate cooperation, through the US-ASEAN Comprehensive Strategic Partnership and the first ASEAN-US Ministerial Dialogue on Environment and Climate Change in 2023. However, it remains to be seen if Trump will advance climate cooperation initiatives with ASEAN. During his last term as president, the Trump administration arguably saw Southeast Asia as a low-priority region within the wider Asia-Pacific. Trump’s America First approach and campaign pledges to enact protectionist measures such as steep tariffs are likely to trigger tit-for-tat reactions from China. Additionally, the US would ramp up its competition with China in renewable energy. These developments would largely have a mixed effect on Southeast Asia. We would likely see increased opportunities and investments in the region with other countries seeking to diversify their supply chains. At the same time, the region would also suffer disruptions or increased costs of critical minerals and green technologies following any repercussions from protectionist measures by both US and China. COUNTRIES MUST STICK TO CLIMATE COMMITMENTS Southeast Asian countries, including Singapore, will benefit from increased cooperation with the US on climate. While there may be a loss of climate financing to the regions’ projects under a Trump administration, US clean energy companies may look to Southeast Asia to secure their supply chains and expand into new markets. At least on climate cooperation on a bilateral level, there will likely be a level of continuity during the Trump administration. As a small state that values multilateralism and global governance institutions, Singapore will continue to be a steadfast advocate of global cooperation on climate change. Most importantly, regional decarbonisation efforts should be stepped up, for instance in establishing the ASEAN power grid that will allow member states to trade green energy. The world is already off track in meeting its climate goals. It is all the more vital for countries to stick to their commitments and work together to tackle climate change. The momentum towards clean energy is unstoppable, and if the Trump administration chooses not to prioritise it, the US will continue to lag on climate action and leadership. Peili Pey is Research Fellow and Danielle Lynn Goh is Associate Research Fellow at the Centre for Non-Traditional Security Studies, S Rajaratnam School of International Studies.
Power couple: green energy, gas giant bet on renewables
NOT FOR RELEASE, PUBLICATION OR DISTRIBUTION, IN WHOLE OR IN PART, DIRECTLY OR INDIRECTLY, IN, INTO OR FROM ANY JURISDICTION WHERE TO DO SO WOULD CONSTITUTE A VIOLATION OF THE RELEVANT LAWS OR REGULATIONS OF SUCH JURISDICTION. THIS ANNOUNCEMENT CONTAINS INSIDE INFORMATION FOR THE PURPOSES OF ARTICLE 7 OF REGULATION (EU) NO 596/2014 (MAR) AS IT FORMS PART OF UK DOMESTIC LAW BY VIRTUE OF THE EUROPEAN UNION (WITHDRAWAL) ACT 2018. LONDON, UK / ACCESSWIRE / December 8, 2024 / Further to the announcement made by the Company and Metals Exploration plc ("MTL") on 4 December 2024 in relation to the proposed recommended offer ("Offer") by MTL for the entire issued, and to be issued, ordinary share capital (the "Rule 2.7 Announcement"), the Board of Condor confirm that it has today, 6 December 2024, issued a Part 8 Claim Form in the Companies Court for an Order ("Order") under Section 896 of the Companies Act 2006 to convene on 6 January 2025 at 10 a.m., a single meeting of the holders of its Ordinary Shares (the "Meeting") for the purpose of considering and if thought fit approving (with or without modification) a scheme of arrangement ("Scheme") proposed to be made between the Company and the holders of its shares (the "Scheme Shareholders") in order to give effect to the Offer. Further details regarding the proposed Scheme are set out in the Rule 2.7 Announcement. If the Court makes an Order that the Meeting be convened and if at the Meeting a majority in number representing 75% in value of the Scheme Shareholders present and voting either in person or by proxy agree to the proposed arrangements, the court may, on further application by the Company under Section 899 of the Companies Act 2006, sanction the proposed Scheme of Arrangement. A hearing of the Claim is listed on 9 December 2024 at 10.30am (the "Convening Hearing"). The Convening Hearing is to be held online and shareholders wishing to be represented at the Convening Hearing should contact the company secretary of the Company at cosec@condorgold.com . Scheme Shareholders are entitled to attend or be represented at both the Convening Hearing and the hearing of the Court at which the Company will seek an order sanctioning the Scheme, which is expected to be held on 13 January 2025. Subject to the Order being granted, a scheme document in relation to the proposed Scheme will be published in due course and a further announcement will be made at that time. Enquiries: Condor Gold plc Mark Child, CEO Tel: +44 (0) 207 493 2784 Beaumont Cornish Limited Nominated Adviser Tel: +44 (0)207 628 3396 Roland Cornish / James Biddle SP Angel Corporate Finance LLP Tel: +44 (0) 203 470 0470 Ewan Leggat H&P Advisory Limited Tel: +44 207 907 8500 Andrew Chubb, Franck Nganou, Ilya Demichev Cassiopeia (Investor Relations) Tel: +44 7949690338 Stefania Barbaglio Neither the Toronto Stock Exchange nor the London Stock Exchange, nor any other securities regulatory authority, has approved or disapproved of the contents of this announcement. Important information This announcement is not intended to, and does not, constitute, represent or form part of any offer, invitation or solicitation of an offer to purchase, otherwise acquire, subscribe for, sell or otherwise dispose of any securities or the solicitation of any vote or approval in any jurisdiction whether pursuant to this announcement or otherwise. The distribution of this announcement in jurisdictions outside the UK may be restricted by law and therefore persons into whose possession this announcement comes should inform themselves about, and observe, such restrictions. Any failure to comply with the restrictions may constitute a violation of the securities law of any such jurisdiction. Beaumont Cornish ("BCL"), which is regulated by the Financial Conduct Authority ("FCA"), is acting as financial adviser exclusively for Bird and for no one else in connection with the matters referred to in this announcement and will not be responsible to anyone other than Bird for providing the protections afforded to its clients or for providing advice in relation to the matters referred to in this announcement. Neither BCL, nor any of its affiliates, owes or accepts any duty, liability or responsibility whatsoever (whether direct or indirect, whether in contract, in tort, under statute or otherwise) to any person who is not a client of BCL in connection with this announcement, any statement contained herein or otherwise. SP Angel Corporate Finance LLP ("SP Angel"), which is regulated by the FCA, is acting as adviser exclusively for Bird and for no one else in connection with the matters referred to in this announcement and will not be responsible to anyone other than Bird for providing the protections afforded to its clients or for providing advice in relation to the matters referred to in this announcement. Neither SP Angel, nor any of its affiliates, owes or accepts any duty, liability or responsibility whatsoever (whether direct or indirect, whether in contract, in tort, under statute or otherwise) to any person who is not a client of SP Angel in connection with this announcement, any statement contained herein or otherwise. H&P Advisory Limited ("H&P"), which is regulated by the FCA, is acting as adviser exclusively for Bird and for no one else in connection with the matters referred to in this announcement and will not be responsible to anyone other than Bird for providing the protections afforded to its clients or for providing advice in relation to the matters referred to in this announcement. Neither H&P, nor any of its affiliates, owes or accepts any duty, liability or responsibility whatsoever (whether direct or indirect, whether in contract, in tort, under statute or otherwise) to any person who is not a client of H&P in connection with this announcement, any statement contained herein or otherwise. MAR The information contained within this announcement is deemed by the Company to constitute inside information as stipulated under the Market Abuse Regulations (EU) No. 596/2014 as it forms part of UK Domestic Law by virtue of the European Union (Withdrawal) Act 2018. The person responsible for releasing this statement on behalf of the Company is Mark Child. SOURCE: Condor Gold plc View the original on accesswire.com
‘You get in that comfort zone’: Dolphins recruit targets Blues recall amid Knights home truth — Off-season CentralmicroLED screens. Key supplier Foxconn has announced that it expects to begin mass production of the advanced display tech late next year. Foxconn made the announcement as it revealed a partnership with Porotech for microLED to be used in future AR headsets ... Apple's move toward micro-LED Apple is so still to complete its transition to its third display technology, OLED: Originally, it used LCD with conventional backlighting Then it moved on to LCD with mini-LED backlighting The Apple Watch, iPhone, and latest iPads currently use OLED With MacBooks to follow, likely in 2026 Apple is already looking ahead to an even more advanced display tech, however, known as micro-LED. This offers even brighter displays with... Ben LovejoyPhiladelphia Eagles star Saquon Barkley became the ninth player in NFL history to rush for 2,000 yards in a season on Sunday. Barkley entered the game against the visiting Dallas Cowboys needing 162 yards to join the exclusive club. He reached the milestone with a 23-yard run with about 11 minutes remaining in the fourth quarter and Philadelphia leading 34-7. That gave him 167 for the day on 31 carries and 2,005 for the season. With one game remaining, Barkley has a chance to break Eric Dickerson's NFL single-season record of 2,105 yards, set during a 16-game season in 1984. In addition to Dickerson, the others to rush for 2,000 yards are Adrian Peterson, Jamal Lewis, Barry Sanders, Derrick Henry, Terrell Davis, Chris Johnson and O.J. Simpson. With the Eagles locked into the No. 2 seed in the NFC, it's unclear whether Barkley will play in next weekend's regular-season finale against his former team, the New York Giants. Barkley also broke LeSean McCoy's 2013 franchise record of 2,146 all-purpose yards. --Field Level MediaDonald Trump wants to deport all illegal immigrants from US and will pardon some January 6 rioters
EDITORIAL: In a political climate ridden with strife and conflict, the PPP’s decision on December 2 to engage in talks with all political parties, whether in government or in opposition, marks a much-needed, welcome attempt at bridging ostensibly insurmountable divides and addressing the pressing challenges facing the nation, ranging from security issues to those afflicting the digital economy and agriculture. The party’s Rabta committee, originally formed to address the PPP’s grievances with the ruling PML-N, has now also been tasked to engage with other parties to identify areas where political consensus can be achieved. This follows on the heels of PPP Chairperson Bilawal Bhutto-Zardari striking a note of conciliation last week, calling for a dialogue to restore political stability in the wake of the PTI’s recent protest, which has further escalated tensions and caused much turbulence on the political landscape. Notably, he also reaffirmed the PPP’s stance against the banning of political parties and the imposition of governor’s rule in provinces. Similarly, on the same day, the PTI’s incarcerated vice chairman Shah Mehmood Qureshi also called for national reconciliation and consensus to achieve political stability, and urged the authorities to allow him a meeting with party founder Imran Khan so that he could share his perspective on the matter. These developments demonstrate that despite the persistent hostilities between the rulers and the opposition, there are those among the political class who possess a shared recognition of the need for negotiations and cooperation to foster national cohesion, and to tackle the complex issues confronting the country. It goes without saying that regardless of the deep differences between those in power and those that are part of the opposition, it is essential to keep the door open for dialogue. The political class must remember that progress is made and goals can be achieved when politicians remain ready to engage with all stakeholders. That is the fundamental distinction between democracies and non-democratic dispensations. Given the array of crises we face - ranging from terrorism and a fragile economy to threats to the digital ecosystem, the volatile situation in Balochistan and Kurram, the environmental disasters wrought by climate change, and the extreme polarisation dividing the polity - it is imperative that all stakeholders acknowledge the necessity of engaging with those in the opposing camp. In fact, it is incumbent upon every political party, whether in power or not, to initiate dialogue and bridge differences, with the understanding that no preconditions should be attached to any negotiating exercise. In the past, the coarsening of the political climate fuelled a culture where a zero-sum approach to politics was prioritised despite such a mindset rarely helping parties achieve their goals. In fact, it only bolstered the influence of non-democratic forces intent on undermining democratic processes. This has resulted in a stunted political culture, fostered intolerance, undermined democratic principles, weakened the economy and caused significant setbacks to the cause of constitutionalism, hindering the nation’s ability to achieve lasting political and economic stability and growth. In light of this history, the ruling PML-N has the responsibility to lead by example and prioritise the restoration of trust in the government machinery by engaging with all stakeholders, including the PTI. Resorting to belligerent rhetoric, and threatening to ban the PTI or impose governor’s rule in KP will only deepen divisions. Similarly, the PTI must also realise that its refusal to talk with political parties that are part of the ruling coalition and its tendency to elevate leaders who engage in inflammatory rhetoric while relegating more moderate voices to the background has hindered its ability to achieve its objectives. The truth is that political gridlock benefits no one, and political issues are best resolved through engagement, i.e., through dialogue and seeking common ground. Copyright Business Recorder, 2024
Inventus Mining Corp. ( CVE:IVS – Get Free Report ) dropped 21.1% on Friday . The company traded as low as C$0.08 and last traded at C$0.08. Approximately 118,000 shares were traded during trading, an increase of 26% from the average daily volume of 93,681 shares. The stock had previously closed at C$0.10. Inventus Mining Stock Down 21.1 % The company has a quick ratio of 0.07, a current ratio of 1.44 and a debt-to-equity ratio of 41.50. The company’s fifty day moving average price is C$0.06 and its 200-day moving average price is C$0.05. The stock has a market capitalization of C$12.60 million, a PE ratio of -7.00 and a beta of 0.83. Insider Activity at Inventus Mining In other news, Director Glen Alexander Milne acquired 577,000 shares of the business’s stock in a transaction that occurred on Tuesday, November 19th. The shares were bought at an average cost of C$0.06 per share, with a total value of C$31,735.00. Insiders purchased a total of 1,952,000 shares of company stock valued at $99,235 in the last 90 days. Corporate insiders own 31.70% of the company’s stock. About Inventus Mining Inventus Mining Corp. engages in the acquisition, exploration, and development of mineral properties in Canada. The company explores for gold and base metals. It holds 100% interests in the Pardo Paleoplacer gold project covering an area of 3.8 square kilometers block of mineral leases and 180 square kilometers of mineral claims; and Sudbury 2.0 project totaling an area of 240 square kilometers of mineral claims located in Sudbury Mining Division, Ontario. See Also Receive News & Ratings for Inventus Mining Daily - Enter your email address below to receive a concise daily summary of the latest news and analysts' ratings for Inventus Mining and related companies with MarketBeat.com's FREE daily email newsletter .
NoneLed by Meaghan Brazeau, Douglas nips Hull for Div. 5 girls soccer titleBEIRUT (AP) — Insurgents' stunning march across Syria accelerated Saturday with news that they had reached the gates of the capital and that government forces had abandoned the central city of Homs. The government was forced to deny rumors that President Bashar Assad had fled the country. The loss of Homs is a potentially crippling blow for Assad. It stands at an important intersection between Damascus and Syria’s coastal provinces of Latakia and Tartus — the Syrian leader’s base of support and home to a Russian strategic naval base. The pro-government Sham FM reported that government forces took positions outside Syria’s third-largest city, without elaborating. Rami Abdurrahman who heads the Britain-based Syrian Observatory for Human Rights, said Syrian troops and members of different security agencies have withdrawn from the city, adding that rebels have entered parts of it. The capture of Homs is a major victory for insurgents, who have already seized the cities of Aleppo and Hama , as well as large parts of the south, in a lightning offensive that began Nov. 27. Analysts said Homs falling into rebel hands would be a game-changer. The rebels' moves around Damascus, reported by the monitor and a rebel commander, came after the Syrian army withdrew from much of southern part of the country, leaving more areas, including several provincial capitals, under the control of opposition fighters. For the first time in the country’s long-running civil war, the government now has control of only three of 14 provincial capitals: Damascus, Latakia and Tartus. The advances in the past week were among the largest in recent years by opposition factions, led by a group that has its origins in al-Qaida and is considered a terrorist organization by the U.S. and the United Nations. In their push to overthrow Assad's government, the insurgents, led by the Hayat Tahrir al-Sham group, or HTS, have met little resistance from the Syrian army. The rapid rebel gains, coupled with the lack of support from Assad's erstwhile allies, posed the most serious threat to his rule since the start of the war. The U.N.’s special envoy for Syria, Geir Pedersen, on Saturday called for urgent talks in Geneva to ensure an “orderly political transition.” Speaking to reporters at the annual Doha Forum in Qatar, he said the situation in Syria was changing by the minute. Russian Foreign Minister Sergey Lavrov, whose country is Assad's chief international backer, said he feels “sorry for the Syrian people.” In Damascus, people rushed to stock up on supplies. Thousands went to Syria's border with Lebanon, trying to leave the country. Many shops in the capital were shuttered, a resident told The Associated Press, and those still open ran out of staples such as sugar. Some were selling items at three times the normal price. “The situation is very strange. We are not used to that,” the resident said, insisting on anonymity, fearing retributions. “People are worried whether there will be a battle (in Damascus) or not.” It was the first time that opposition forces reached the outskirts of Damascus since 2018, when Syrian troops recaptured the area following a yearslong siege. The U.N. said it was moving noncritical staff outside the country as a precaution. Assad's status Syria’s state media denied social media rumors that Assad left the country, saying he is performing his duties in Damascus. He has had little, if any, help from his allies. Russia, is busy with its war in Ukraine . Lebanon’s Hezbollah, which at one point sent thousands of fighters to shore up Assad's forces, has been weakened by a yearlong conflict with Israel. Iran has seen its proxies across the region degraded by regular Israeli airstrikes. U.S. President-elect Donald Trump on Saturday posted on social media that that the United States should avoid engaging militarily in Syria. Pedersen said a date for talks in Geneva on the implementation a U.N. resolution, adopted in 2015, and calling for a Syrian-led political process, would be announced later. The resolution calls for the establishment of a transitional governing body, followed by the drafting of a new constitution and ending with U.N.-supervised elections. Later Saturday, foreign ministers and senior diplomats from eight key countries, including Saudi Arabia, Russia, Egypt, Turkey and Iran, along with Pederson, gathered on the sidelines of the Doha Summit to discuss the situation in Syria. In a statement issued late Saturday, the participants affirmed their support for a political solution to the Syrian crisis “that would lead to the end of military activity and protect civilians.” They also agreed on the importance of strengthening international efforts to increase aid to the Syrian people. The insurgents' march Rami Abdurrahman, who heads the Britain-based Syrian Observatory for Human Rights, an opposition war monitor, said insurgents were in the Damascus suburbs of Maadamiyah, Jaramana and Daraya. Opposition fighters were marching toward the Damascus suburb of Harasta, he added. A commander with the insurgents, Hassan Abdul-Ghani, posted on the Telegram messaging app that opposition forces had begun the “final stage” of their offensive by encircling Damascus. HTS controls much of northwest Syria and in 2017 set up a “salvation government” to run day-to-day affairs in the region. In recent years, HTS leader Abu Mohammed al-Golani has sought to remake the group’s image, cutting ties with al-Qaida, ditching hard-line officials and vowing to embrace pluralism and religious tolerance. The shock offensive began Nov. 27, during which gunmen captured the northern city of Aleppo, Syria’s largest, and the central city of Hama , the country’s fourth largest city. Opposition activists said Saturday that a day earlier, insurgents entered Palmyra, which is home to invaluable archaeological sites had been in government hands since being taken from the Islamic State group in 2017. To the south, Syrian troops left much of the province of Quneitra including the main Baath City, activists said. Syrian Observatory said government troops have withdrawn from much of the two southern provinces. The Syrian army said in a statement that it carried out redeployment and repositioning in Sweida and Daraa after its checkpoints came under attack by “terrorists." The army said it was setting up a “strong and coherent defensive and security belt in the area,” apparently to defend Damascus from the south. The Syrian government has referred to opposition gunmen as terrorists since conflict broke out in March 2011. Diplomacy in Doha The foreign ministers of Iran, Russia and Turkey, meeting in Qatar, called for an end to the hostilities. Turkey is a main backer of the rebels. Qatar's top diplomat, Sheikh Mohammed bin Abdulrahman Al Thani, criticized Assad for failing to take advantage of the lull in fighting in recent years to address the country’s underlying problems. “Assad didn’t seize this opportunity to start engaging and restoring his relationship with his people,” he said. Sheikh Mohammed said he was surprised by how quickly the rebels have advanced and said there is a real threat to Syria’s “territorial integrity.” He said the war could “damage and destroy what is left if there is no sense of urgency” to start a political process. ____ Karam reported from London. Associated Press writers Albert Aji in Damascus, Syria; Qassim Abdul-Zahra in Baghdad; and Josef Federman and Victoria Eastwood in Doha, Qatar, contributed to this report. Bassem Mroue And Zeina Karam, The Associated Press
CHARLOTTE, N.C. — Former NASCAR driver Greg Biffle was named the recipient of the National Motorsports Press Association’s Myers Brothers Award on Friday for his humanitarian aid efforts earlier this summer in the wake of Hurricane Helene. Before most of the country knew the devastation the hurricane dealt Western North Carolina and East Tennessee, the 54-year-old Biffle had already boarded his personal helicopter, delivering aid to the flooded, remote region that was cut off from the rest of the world. Biffle’s unselfish efforts as part of Operation Helidrop spearheaded NASCAR’s mobilization to help those who desperately needed food, water, medicine, clothing and housing. During one of his trips to the mountains, a trapped man signaled Biffle for help with a mirror. After multiple attempts, Biffle was able to land his helicopter and provide the supplies the man and his neighbors needed. Biffle won 54 races across NASCAR's three circuits, including 19 at the Cup Series level. He also won the Trucks Series championship in 2000 and the Xfinity Series title in 2002. The award, selected annually by a vote of the NMPA membership, is presented annually since 1958 in honor of former NASCAR competitors Billy and Bobby Myers and recognizes individuals and/or groups who have provided outstanding contributions to the sport of stock car racing. Biffle is a first-time winner of the award. The other nominees for 2024 were Wayne Auton, Erik Jones Foundation, Kyle Larson, Grant Lynch, Winston Kelley, Doug Rice and David Wilson.