HYDRAA reclaims 200 acres of land says Commissioner
Chargeback management firm Justt raised $30 million to bolster its artificial intelligence-powered platform. The Series C round brings Justt’s total funding to $100 million and will allow it to expand into high-growth regions as it aims to reach profitability by 2027, according to a Thursday (Dec. 19) press release . “The company will enhance its proprietary AI-driven platform, which analyzes over 500 data points from multiple sources to create tailored, high-quality arguments for each case,” Justt said in a news release. “This dynamic system leverages machine learning to optimize dispute win rates and continuously improve outcomes over time.” The company last raised money in 2021 and has since then seen its revenue triple in 2023 and double again during 2024, per the release. This year also saw Justt almost double the total chargeback volume it managed over the previous year, while merchants using the platform recovered nearly twice as much revenue on average. “This funding will drive our global expansion, fuel technological advancements, and further our mission to help merchants resolve payment disputes more efficiently and recover more revenue,” Justt CEO and co-founder Ofir Tahor said in the release. Such disputes can be a headache for merchants and consumers, according to the PYMNTS Intelligence report “ How Card Disputes Are an Opportunity to Cultivate Customer Loyalty .” “ Unexpected charges are a reality that 30% of consumers experienced in just the last 12 months,” PYMNTS wrote in October. “These charges could include either outright fraud or some level of ambiguity. For example, a cardholder may not recognize the charge amount or merchant. Providing clarity on such credit card charges can prevent charge disputes from happening.” Cardholders who initiated a charge dispute because of unclear charges reported that they were less satisfied with its resolution, with 29% saying they were unsatisfied. The resulting confusion is tied directly to the cardholder’s dissatisfaction with how the dispute was handled. Most consumers plan to continue using the card they initiated a dispute with. “Somewhat paradoxically, card disputes provide an opportunity for financial institutions to improve their customer loyalty,” PYMNTS wrote. On the flip side, chargebacks cost merchants about $54.5 billion per year. The complexity around chargebacks ranges from genuine consumer disputes to cases of friendly fraud, where shoppers initiate chargebacks for transactions they authorized .Daily Post Nigeria 2 teens, 5 others in court over alleged N28m property theft Home News Politics Metro Entertainment Sport Metro 2 teens, 5 others in court over alleged N28m property theft Published on December 27, 2024 By Nsikak Nseyen Two teenagers and five men have appeared before an Abeokuta Magistrates’ Court over alleged theft of electrical fittings and household items worth over N28 million. The defendants, Sunday Odeshola, 15, Monday Ubah, 16, and David Odeshola, 45, were arraigned on a three-count charge of conspiracy stealing and malicious damage. Four others, Kaman Rabiru, 27, Lawal Shaibu, 25, Nazid Abdullahi, 27, and Ibrahim Khalid, 25, were arraigned for unlawfully receiving stolen goods. The prosecutor, Inspector Lawrence Olu-Balogun, told the court that the defendants and others at large committed the offences between December 10 and 17, at Ariwo Quarters, Owode Egbe in Abeokuta, at 12:30 pm. He alleged that Odeshola, Odeh and Odeshola broke into the house of one Mr Akinwale Azeez and stole an Eito inverter machine valued at N2 million, electrical wires, refrigerator compressors, and gas cooker burners all valued at N26 million, totalling to N28 million. The prosecutor also added that Sunday Odeshola and Odey maliciously damaged one electric engine valued at N500,000, one entrance iron door valued at N150,000, one aluminium window glass valued at N50,000, and five refrigerators valued at N1 million, all valued at N1.7 million. He said Kabiru, Shaibu, Abdullahi and Khalid unlawfully received the stolen electrical wires, refrigerator compressors, and gas cooker burners. According to him, the offences committed contravened sections 516, 390 (9) and 427 of the Criminal Code Laws of Ogun 2006. The defendants, however, pleaded not guilty to the charges preferred against each of them. Ruling on the defendants’ bail applications, the Chief Magistrate, Dr B.O. Ilo, admitted them to bail in the sum of N2 million each with one surety each. Ilo said that the sureties must be bondsmen registered with the Ogun State Judiciary. He thereafter adjourned the case until January 10, 2025, for hearing. Related Topics: Court Don't Miss NSCDC arrests suspected Lagos mechanic with stolen car in Ogun You may like Drug barons jailed with hard labour, forfeit VGC mansions, N67m, $50,000 Court orders DSS to release, or arraign detained Miyetti Allah leader Court bars Wike, others from Abuja disputed land US gay couple sentenced to 100 years imprisonment for raping adopted sons Court punishes man for urinating in public place Ibadan stampede: Court remands Principal, Hamzat, ex-Queen in prison Advertise About Us Contact Us Privacy-Policy Terms Copyright © Daily Post Media Ltd
Marist Catholic finally gets its title with Class 4A state championship win over Henley
SHOPPERS are urged to stock up on grocery items before New Year's Day. The public holiday means shops will have reduced hours or be shut all together, with Trader Joes confirming it will close all 597 stores on January 1. You can get some shopping done on New Year‘s Eve, though, as Trader Joe's will be open during their usual Sunday business hours from 8 am to 6 pm. Individual stores may have different hours, so it is always a good idea to check online or call ahead. However, Aldi and Costco will be no help on New Year's Day as both retailers confirm they will shut down. Walmart and Target will be open at their normal operating hours on both New Year’s Eve and New Year’s Day. Read more on Trader Joe's However, shoppers are urged to check their local shops for exact holiday hours as they may vary by location. With stores closing down, shoppers are advised to plan ahead, especially during the busy festive season when supermarkets can be crowded. SHUT IT DOWN It is not the first time supermarkets have shut down recently. Major retailers, including Walmart, Costco, and Target, shut down on Christmas Day to give their workers a break to spend time with family. Most read in Money This means planning is essential - particularly when many stores are closed on New Year's Eve. For those in a serious bind, pharmacies may be open on New Year’s Day including Walgreens and CVS. According to a Walgreens spokesperson, most Walgreens will be open on New Year’s Day with adjusted operating hours from 9am to 6pm. 24-hour Walgreens locations will remain open as normal. This may be a good option to grab some last minute items if you ran out of time to go grocery shopping. Safeway will also be open in some locations, with reduced hours. SPECIFIC SHOPS TO OPEN Other supermarkets open include Giant Food, with many stores open from 8 am to 5 pm on New Year's Day. A majority of 7-Eleven stores will be open 24/7 with some locations operating with adjusted hours. The U.S. Sun reports on retail, including how Walmart and Target prepared for the holiday rush . Read More on The US Sun Shoppers are also being advised to pay attention to key dates if they are hoping to return items. Many retailers put a time limit on how long you have to return or exchange the item.CHRISTMAS is all about slobbing out, eating loads of cheese and skipping the gym. But if after weeks of overindulging you’ve woken up feeling pretty unhealthy and like you haven’t moved your body in months - it’s time to get up and get going! “Starting the year with movement isn’t just good for your health; it’s a powerful way to feel strong, confident and ready to take on whatever the year brings,” says Mari-Carmen Sanchez-Morris, women’s health and fitness expert and founder of The FIT MAMA Way . “Establishing an active routine early in the year sets the tone for healthier habits, giving you a strong foundation to work toward whatever goals you’ve set.” But don’t start by feeling guilty for eating all that Christmas pud. Mari-Carmen says: “Be kind to yourself. It’s perfectly normal to indulge a little more than usual. READ MORE ON FITNESS “A few days of extra treats or skipped workouts won’t undo all your progress, so don’t let guilt overshadow the good memories you’ve made. “Instead of dwelling on what you could have done differently, focus on what you can do now.” However, it’s easy to fall into the exercise trap of going too hard, too soon and overdoing it. You don’t want to end up injured, or feeling so rubbish about how out of breath you are that you give up before you’ve even properly started. Most read in Fitness Mari-Carmen says the key is to set yourself realistic targets you can actually hit, rather than overwhelming yourself and committing to an extreme workout regime you’ll never stick to. “Getting the new year off to a good start is all about creating a plan that feels realistic and exciting,” she says. “Progress isn’t about perfection; it’s about showing up for yourself consistently.” She adds: “When you start with even small steps, like a brisk walk or a short workout, you create a sense of achievement that motivates you to keep going.” Not sure where to begin? Ease into things with Mari-Carmen’s super simple, super speedy six-step session that you can do without leaving the house. Get up off the sofa and give your body the boost it needs to blast away the Christmas fug. Best of all, it’ll take you less than five minutes to complete! THE POST-CHRISTMAS WORKOUT Brace and engage your core and do each move for 30 to 45 seconds each, before moving on to the next: Get your whole body warmed up with this one. Start with your feet hip width apart and kick your heels up towards your glutes. Alternate each leg and bend your knees, sitting back into a squat, in between swapping legs. You can pump your arms in time too. These are surprisingly fun and will get your heart rate up. Stand upright, with feet hip width apart. Drop your hands to the floor and walk them forwards into a plank position . Then walk your hands back towards your feet and stand back up. Repeat without stopping. Sorry, we know they’re not everyone’s favourite, but press ups are a classic for a reason! Come into a high plank position - hands directly beneath shoulders, feet parallel and hip width apart. Keep your hips in line with your shoulders, then bend your elbows to drop your chest towards the ground before pushing back up. Repeat. Find it too difficult to hold a full press up? Don’t worry, drop your knees to the floor to make it easier and as you gain strength, build up from there. By Lucy Gornall, personal trainer and health journalist EXERCISE can be intimidating and hard to devote yourself to, particularly at this time of year, when the rain is as relentless as your craving for carbs. So how do you find the right workout for you? As a PT and fitness journalist, I’ve tried everything. I’ve taken part in endless fitness competitions, marathons and I maintain a regime of runs, strength training and Pilates . Fitness is so entrenched in my life, I stick to it even at Christmas ! The key is finding an activity you love that can become a habit. My top five forms of exercise , especially if you're trying to lose weight, are: Walking Running Pilates High-intensity interval training (HIIT) Strength training 4. Squat jumps This is a powerful move. Start in a squat position - feet shoulder-width apart, knees bent, back straight, thighs roughly parallel with the ground. From there, push up through your legs into a jump before landing back in your squat position. Repeat. Remove the jump and just stick to squats if you’re finding it too tough. Upping the intensity now! These are basically jumping lunges . Start in a lunge position, with your front foot flat and knee bent, and your back foot on your toes, knee bent towards the floor. Push off into a jump to switch legs. Repeat. Struggling? Switch to static alternating reverse lunges instead, where you step back into a lunge then return to standing, feet hip-width apart, before kicking your next leg back into a lunge. Finish on a high with mountain climbers. Start in a high plank position and then bring alternate knees into your chest, swapping as fast as you can while maintaining your core connection and plank shape. THE BENEFITS The NHS recommends that adults do at least 150 minutes of moderate intensity activity a week (like brisk walking or having a dance) or 75 minutes of vigorous intensity activity a week (like taking the stairs, going for a run or having a swim). And even just a little bit of exercise can make you feel amazing. “Exercise isn’t just about burning calories; it’s a powerful way to feel good about yourself and get motivated,” says Mari-Carmen. “Physically, it helps boost your energy levels, improves your fitness, and strengthens your immune system – ideal for tackling the colder months. “Mentally, exercise is a game-changer. It releases endorphins, which improve your mood and reduce stress, making you feel more positive and focused as you set your goals for the year.” Focus on consistency over intensity. And it’s not about restriction but balance You don’t have to commit to a new year training regime alone either - rope a mate or family member in. Mari-Carmen says: “Don’t forget, exercise can be social! “Whether you join a class, sign up for a local running group, or just go for a walk with friends, it’s a great way to connect and stay accountable.” WHAT TO FOCUS ON The hardest bit is throwing your sports kit on and making time to actually do the workout. Once you’ve managed that, you’re away. “Start with what works for you - a few short workouts a week, daily walks, or trying a new fitness class,” says Mari-Carmen. “The key is finding something you enjoy, so it doesn’t feel like a chore. Exercise should energise and empower you, not drain you,” she adds. “Next, focus on consistency over intensity.” Now all the mince pies are gone, you can start thinking about what you put in your body again too “ Nutrition is just as important [as exercise]” says Mari-Carmen. “After the holiday indulgence, fuelling your body with wholesome, nourishing foods will help you feel your best. “It’s not about restriction but balance - think adding more, not taking away.” Stock up on lots of leafy veg, wholegrains and pulses, as well as protein like chicken and salmon to help your muscles recover after a workout. And remember: “Progress takes time, so celebrate the small wins and don’t get discouraged by setbacks. READ MORE SUN STORIES “Surround yourself with positive influences - friends, family, or even a PT - who can support and encourage you.” Mari-Carmen adds: “Celebrate every small step forward, and remember, you’re so much more than a number on the scale or a bit of festive season indulgence.”AAR resolves Foreign Corrupt Practices Act investigations with the DOJ and SEC
TAURANGA, New Zealand--(BUSINESS WIRE)--Dec 19, 2024-- Craigs Investment Partners (“Craigs” or “the Firm”), a leading wealth management firm in New Zealand, today announced that TA Associates (“TA”), a leading global private equity firm, has signed a conditional agreement to make a strategic investment in the Firm. Under the agreement, Craigs’ existing employee and director shareholders will retain 50 percent ownership of the Firm, partnering closely with TA. This press release features multimedia. View the full release here: https://www.businesswire.com/news/home/20241218087239/en/ “TA is an ideal partner to support Craigs’ growth ambitions and ongoing commitment to client outcomes given its significant global experience investing in wealth management, and its strong understanding of the regional market,” said Simon Tong, CEO of Craigs. “Craigs and TA are aligned on a client-first philosophy and the importance of a personalized approach to wealth management. Client outcomes remain our top priority, and there will be no change in the people or our approach to providing outstanding service to our clients.” The partnership between Craigs and TA aims to further enhance Craigs’ position as a leader in the New Zealand wealth management market while enabling its continued expansion. Leveraging over 50 years of experience helping high-quality companies grow, TA will provide deep industry knowledge, strategic resources and a robust global network to accelerate Craigs’ growth strategy. “This is an exciting opportunity that connects our local team with TA’s extensive global experience in wealth management, supporting our ability to deliver enhanced outcomes for clients in an increasingly dynamic environment. Access to TA’s international network, best practices and insights will help us elevate our services while maintaining the personalised approach that sets us apart,” Tong continued. “Over the past 40 years, Craigs has established itself as one of the largest and most respected wealth management firms in New Zealand, offering a comprehensive range of personalised wealth advice and services to its clients,” said Edward Sippel, head of TA Associates Asia Pacific Ltd. and a Managing Director at TA. “We deeply respect this history and are honoured to support the Firm’s continued growth strategy and commitment to delivering best-in-class client outcomes.” “TA has a long history of partnering with world-class wealth managers like Craigs,” said Lily Xu, Vice President at TA. “We are excited to collaborate with the entire Craigs team to expand the Firm’s reach, continue enhancing its service offerings, and explore strategic M&A opportunities.” The agreement remains subject to certain approvals being obtained, including Court approval, Craigs’ shareholder approval and Overseas Investment Office (‘OIO’) consent. Settlement is expected to occur late in the first quarter of 2025. Financial terms were not disclosed. Craigs Investment Partners Limited is a NZX Participant firm. Craigs Investment Partners Limited’s Financial Advice Provider Disclosure Statement can be viewed at craigsip.com/terms-and-conditions . Please visit craigsip.com for more information on Craigs Investment Partners financial advice services. About Craigs Investment Partners (Craigs) Craigs Investment Partners is one of New Zealand's largest investment advisory firms, offering bespoke solutions to both private investors and corporate clients. Craigs provides the complete breadth of private client and wealth management services including investment advice and management, securities trading, research, cash management, institutional dealing, and investment banking. Craigs has over 180 qualified Investment Advisers, servicing over 65,000 private wealth investors across 19 branches in New Zealand. Craigs has a team of 650 employees, $32 billion in funds under advice (“FUA”), and is currently 100% owned by employee and director shareholders. www.craigsip.com About TA Associates (TA) TA is a leading global private equity firm focused on scaling growth in profitable companies. Since 1968, TA has invested in more than 560 companies across its five target industries – technology, healthcare, financial services, consumer and businesses services. Leveraging its deep industry expertise and strategic resources, TA collaborates with management teams worldwide to help high-quality companies deliver lasting value. The firm has raised $65 billion in capital to date and has more than 150 investment professionals across offices in Boston, Menlo Park, Austin, London, Mumbai and Hong Kong. More information about TA can be found at www.ta.com . View source version on businesswire.com : https://www.businesswire.com/news/home/20241218087239/en/ CONTACT: For more information, please contact: Craigs Investment Partners:Tania Bui |tania.bui@craigsip.com TA Associates:Maggie Benoit |mbenoit@ta.com KEYWORD: AUSTRALIA/OCEANIA NEW ZEALAND ASIA PACIFIC INDUSTRY KEYWORD: BANKING ASSET MANAGEMENT PROFESSIONAL SERVICES FINANCE SOURCE: Craigs Investment Partners Copyright Business Wire 2024. PUB: 12/19/2024 04:38 PM/DISC: 12/19/2024 04:36 PM http://www.businesswire.com/news/home/20241218087239/enIn line with the comprehensive strategic partnership between the Federal Republic of Nigeria and the People’s Republic of China, a delegation from Zhuzhou City in China’s Hunan Province has visited Nigeria to explore new areas of cooperation between both countries. The delegation, led by the Mayor of Zhuzhou City, Mao Tengfei, was warmly received by Joseph Tegbe, he Director-General of the Nigeria-China Strategic Partnership (NCSP). Expressing his excitement at the partnership between both countries, Mayor Mao gave an overview of Zhuzhou City, highlighting its industrial and technological advancements. According to him, the city is a major hub for production, commodity export, ceramics, fireworks, electricity generation, and high-speed rail, among others. The delegation included Senior Officials of the City and members of the Chinese Business Community including Diana Cheng, the CEO of the CIG group. The Mayor used the opportunity to formally inform the Global Liaison of the Strategic Partnership of Zhuzhou City’s interest in increasing cooperation with Nigeria in these areas, with a focus on commodity export, industrial production, and infrastructure development. He also discussed potential collaborations in science and technology, education, and culture. While welcoming the delegation, Tegbe, the Director-General of the Nigeria-China Strategic Partnership reiterated President Bola Tinubu’s commitment to strengthening ties with China. The Director-General led a promising conversation on various ways to enhance cooperation, including the signing of Memoranda of Understanding (MOUs), the establishment of joint working groups, and exchange programmes. According to Tegbe, enhanced cooperation between Nigeria and Zhuzhou City, as well as other Chinese entities, would bring numerous benefits, including increased trade and investment, job creation, improved infrastructure, knowledge transfer, and cultural exchange
Corporate Social Responsibility ( CSR Initiatives ) has become an essential component of organizational strategies in India. With companies aligning their goals to sustainable development, CSR activities are addressing critical challenges in education, healthcare, environmental sustainability, and rural empowerment. In 2025, several CSR initiatives stand out for their transformative impact. Here, we explore the top 10 best CSR initiatives in India for 2025, highlighting their objectives and achievements. 1. Tata Group: Empowering Education Through Digital Literacy The Tata Group continues its legacy of impactful CSR by focusing on digital education for underprivileged children. Their 2025 initiative has provided digital devices and e-learning resources to over one million students across rural India. Key Highlights: Partnerships with NGOs and schools to implement e-learning modules Teacher training programs to enhance digital skills Reduction in dropout rates through innovative digital classrooms 2. Reliance Foundation: Jio Sustainable Livelihoods Initiative Reliance Foundation has prioritized sustainable livelihood programs, empowering rural communities with modern agricultural practices and access to technology. Key Achievements: Introduction of water-efficient farming techniques Training programs for women entrepreneurs Establishment of over 500 rural resource centers 3. Infosys Foundation: Healthcare for All Infosys Foundation’s CSR initiatives in 2025 focus on improving healthcare accessibility in remote areas. Their flagship program, “Care Connect,” has deployed mobile clinics and telemedicine services. Notable Achievements: Treatment for over 2 million patients in rural areas Free diagnostic services for underprivileged families Partnerships with state governments for better healthcare infrastructure 4. Wipro: Sustainability Through Renewable Energy Wipro is leading the way in environmental sustainability by investing in renewable energy projects and advocating for green energy adoption. Highlights: Installation of solar panels in 200 rural schools Creation of renewable energy hubs in urban centers Public awareness campaigns promoting energy conservation 5. Mahindra & Mahindra: Project Hariyali Project Hariyali by Mahindra & Mahindra aims to combat deforestation and promote afforestation. The initiative has planted over 10 million trees across India by 2025. Key Objectives: Increasing forest cover in environmentally degraded areas Encouraging community participation in tree planting drives Educating youth on the importance of biodiversity conservation 6. ITC Limited: Mission Sunehra Kal ITC’s flagship CSR program, Mission Sunehra Kal, focuses on integrated rural development, including watershed management and women empowerment. Major Contributions: Construction of 1,000 water reservoirs in drought-prone areas Skill development programs for 50,000 women entrepreneurs Enhanced agricultural productivity for over 100,000 farmers 7. Hindustan Unilever: Swachh Bharat Initiative Hindustan Unilever’s CSR efforts align with the national “Swachh Bharat” campaign. They are tackling sanitation issues and promoting hygiene awareness in underserved communities. Achievements: Construction of 25,000 household toilets Hygiene education for over 5 million individuals Sustainable sanitation solutions through partnerships with local governments 8. Adani Foundation: Community Health and Education Adani Foundation’s CSR projects in 2025 emphasize healthcare and education, targeting marginalized sections of society. Key Features: Scholarships for 10,000 underprivileged students Establishment of 50 primary healthcare centers Awareness campaigns on nutrition and preventive healthcare 9. Maruti Suzuki: Road Safety and Awareness Programs Maruti Suzuki’s CSR programs are dedicated to road safety education and skill development for drivers. Key Highlights: Training for 100,000 commercial drivers Awareness campaigns on safe driving practices Distribution of safety kits to school children 10. Flipkart: Sustainability in E-Commerce Flipkart’s CSR efforts in 2025 are centered on reducing plastic waste and enhancing supply chain sustainability. Impactful Steps: Introduction of biodegradable packaging Recycling initiatives for e-commerce waste Collaboration with NGOs to raise awareness about environmental conservation The Impact of CSR Initiatives on India These CSR initiatives are addressing pressing societal challenges, contributing to India’s sustainable development goals. By leveraging innovation, technology, and collaboration, companies are driving impactful changes in communities. Why CSR Initiatives Matter in 2025 CSR programs not only fulfill regulatory obligations but also create shared value for businesses and communities. Companies investing in CSR foster goodwill, enhance brand reputation, and support long-term sustainability goals. Conclusion The top 10 CSR initiatives in India for 2025 showcase how businesses are becoming catalysts for positive change. From education and healthcare to environmental sustainability, these efforts are shaping a better future for millions of Indians. Companies like Tata Group, Reliance Foundation, and ITC Limited are leading by example, proving that impactful CSR programs can transform lives and communities. For more insights into CSR initiatives, visit the Indian CSR Network .
AAR resolves Foreign Corrupt Practices Act investigations with the DOJ and SEC
Rodgers acknowledges Jets could release him after the regular season as he contemplates his futureWhat was the hardest game in Squid Game season 2? The cast sounds off
COLUMBUS, Ohio (AP) — A fight broke out at midfield after Michigan stunned No. 2 Ohio State 13-10 on Saturday as Wolverines players attempted to plant their flag and were met by Buckeyes who confronted them. Police had to use pepper spray to break up the players, who threw punches and shoves in the melee that overshadowed the rivalry game. Ohio State police said in a statement “multiple officers representing Ohio and Michigan deployed pepper spray.” Ohio State police will investigate the fight, according to the statement. After the Ohio State players confronted their bitter rivals at midfield, defensive end Jack Sawyer grabbed the top of the Wolverines' flag and ripped it off the pole as the brawl moved toward the Michigan bench. Eventually, police officers rushed into the ugly scene. Ohio State coach Ryan Day said he understood the actions of his players. “There are some prideful guys on our team who weren't going to sit back and let that happen,” Day said. The two Ohio State players made available after the game brushed off questions about it. Michigan running back Kalel Mullings, who rushed for 116 yards and a touchdown, didn't like how the Buckeyes players involved themselves in the Wolverines' postgame celebration. He called it “classless.” “For such a great game, you hate to see stuff like that after the game," he said in an on-field interview with Fox Sports. “It’s just bad for the sport, bad for college football. But at the end of the day, you know some people got to — they got to learn how to lose, man. ... We had 60 minutes, we had four quarters, to do all that fighting.” Michigan coach Sherrone Moore said everybody needs to do better. “So much emotions on both sides," he said. "Rivalry games get heated, especially this one. It’s the biggest one in the country, so we got to handle that better.” Get poll alerts and updates on the AP Top 25 throughout the season. Sign up here . AP college football: https://apnews.com/hub/ap-top-25-college-football-poll and https://apnews.com/hub/college-football
President-elect Donald Trump has once again suggested he wants to revert the name of North America’s tallest mountain — Alaska’s Denali — to Mount McKinley, wading into a sensitive and about what the peak should be called. Related Articles Former President Barack Obama changed the official name to Denali in 2015 to reflect the as well as the preference of many Alaska residents. The federal government in recent years has endeavored considered disrespectful to Native people. “Denali” is an Athabascan word meaning “the high one” or “the great one.” A prospector in 1896 dubbed the peak “Mount McKinley” after President William McKinley, who had never been to Alaska. That name was formally recognized by the U.S. government until Obama changed it over opposition from lawmakers in McKinley’s home state of Ohio. Trump suggested in 2016 that he might undo Obama’s action, but he dropped that notion after Alaska’s senators objected. He raised it again during a rally in Phoenix on Sunday. “McKinley was a very good, maybe a great president,” Trump said Sunday. “They took his name off Mount McKinley, right? That’s what they do to people.” Once again, Trump’s suggestion drew quick opposition within Alaska. “Uh. Nope. It’s Denali,” Democratic state Sen. Scott Kawasaki posted on the social platform X Sunday night. , who for years pushed for legislation to change the name to Denali, conveyed a similar sentiment in a post of her own. “There is only one name worthy of North America’s tallest mountain: Denali — the Great One,” Murkowski wrote on X. Various tribes of Athabascan people have lived in the shadow of the 20,310-foot (6,190-meter) mountain for thousands of years. McKinley, a Republican native of Ohio who served as the 25th president, was assassinated early in his second term in 1901 in Buffalo, New York. Alaska and Ohio have been at odds over the name since at least the 1970s. Alaska had a standing request to change the name since 1975, when the legislature passed a resolution and then-Gov. Jay Hammond appealed to the federal government. Known for its majestic views, the mountain is dotted with glaciers and covered at the top with snow year-round, with powerful winds that make it difficult for the adventurous few who seek to climb it.He's been helping Donald Trump’s most contentious Cabinet picks try to win confirmation in the Senate.Dreams on a Pillow is a video game experience about the 1948 Nakba, an event where roughly 700,000 people were displaced from their land and homes due to Zionist occupation. The game, described as “a pseudo-3D stealth adventure game about a land full of people being made into a people without land,” is from Palestinian developer Rasheed Abu-Eideh. But before I tell you more about that, let me tell you about his previous game. In 2016, Abu-Eideh released Liyla and the Shadows of War , a game about a 2014 assault on Gaza by Israel, known as Operation Protective Edge. Liyla follows a Palestinian girl and her family as they navigate attacks in their neighborhood. It’s short but emotional, and it blends elements of platformers and choose-your-own-adventure storytelling. In 2021, the game was a part of an Indie Bundle Pack that raised nearly $900,000 for Palestinian aid through UNRWA USA. Currently, Liyla and the Shadows of War is free on mobile and Windows. But back in 2016, it was initially rejected as a game in the Apple App Store. Abu-Eideh was told to remove all description of it as a “Game” and re-categorize it as “News” or “Reference” due to its political nature. The hypocrisy of the decision was noted by many at the time: As reported by Eurogamer , Apple denied Liyla as a game, but allowed a game called Israeli Heroes in the game section. After Abu-Eideh spoke about Apple’s decision on social media, Apple finally allowed Liyla to be categorized as a game. Dreams on a Pillow is currently being crowdfunded by Abu-Eideh on LaunchGood till Jan. 13, and funds raised from the LaunchGood campaign will go towards asset creation, outsourcing, and salaries for the current team of 9 individuals. The game is aiming to launch in Q4 2026. Gaming News Video
The year in review: Influential people who died in 2024Amid an explosion of capability, artificial intelligence leadership is imperativeFrom Ramaphosa to Zuma, Mzansi political leaders wish you a Merry ChristmasCan Gov Tech Come to the Rescue of Patrol Car Inspections?