LeBron James at 40: A milestone birthday arrives Monday for the NBA's all-time scoring leader When LeBron James broke another NBA record earlier this month, the one for most regular-season minutes played in a career, his Los Angeles Lakers teammates handled the moment in typical locker room fashion. They made fun of him. Dubbed The Kid from Akron, with a limitless future, James is now the 40-year-old from Los Angeles with wisps of gray in his beard, his milestone birthday coming Monday, one that will make him the first player in NBA history to play in his teens, 20s, 30s and 40s. He has stood and excelled in the spotlight his entire career. 'Sonic 3' and 'Mufasa' battle for No. 1 at the holiday box office Two family films are dominating the holiday box office, with “Sonic the Hedgehog 3” winning the three-day weekend over “Mufasa” by a blue hair. According to studio estimates Sunday, the Sonic movie earned $38 million, while “Mufasa” brought in $37.1 million from theaters in the U.S. and Canada. The R-rated horror “Nosferatu” placed third with an unexpectedly strong $21.2 million. Thanksgiving release holdovers “Wicked” and “Moana 2” rounded out the top five. Christmas Day had several big film openings, including the Bob Dylan biopic “A Complete Unknown,” the Nicole Kidman erotic drama “Babygirl” and the boxing drama “The Fire Inside.” Belgium will ban sales of disposable e-cigarettes in a first for the EU BRUSSELS (AP) — Belgium will ban the sale of disposable electronic cigarettes as of Jan. 1 on health and environmental grounds in a groundbreaking move for European Union nations. Health minister Frank Vandenbroucke tells The Associated Press that the inexpensive e-cigarettes have turned into a health threat since they are an easy way for teenagers to be drawn into smoking and get hooked on nicotine. Australia outlawed the sale of “vapes” outside pharmacies earlier this year in some of the world’s toughest restrictions on electronic cigarettes. Now Belgium is leading the EU drive. Belgium's minister wants tougher tobacco measures in the 27-nation bloc. Charles Dolan, HBO and Cablevision founder, dies at 98 Charles F. Dolan, who founded some of the most prominent U.S. media companies including Home Box Office Inc. and Cablevision Systems Corp., has died at age 98. Newsday reports that a statement issued Saturday by his family says Dolan died of natural causes. Dolan’s legacy in cable broadcasting includes founding HBO in 1972, Cablevision in 1973 and the American Movie Classics television station in 1984. He also launched News 12 in New York City, the first U.S. 24-hour cable channel for local news. Dolan also held controlling stakes in companies that owned Madison Square Garden, Radio City Music Hall, the New York Knicks and the New York Rangers. Snoop's game: Snoop Dogg thrills the crowd in the bowl that bears his name TUCSON, Ariz. (AP) — Miami of Ohio beat Colorado State in the Arizona Bowl, but Snoop Dogg was the main attraction. The Snoop Dogg Arizona Bowl presented by Gin & Juice by Dre and Snoop was much a spectacle as a football game. Snoop Dogg seemed to be everywhere all at once, from a pregame tailgate to the postgame trophy presentation. Snoop Dog donned a headset on Colorado State's sideline, spent some time in the broadcast and even led both marching bands as conductor during their halftime performance. Snoop Dogg saved the best for last, rolling out in a light green, lowrider Chevy Impala with gold rims and accents, the shiny Arizona Bowl trophy in his hand as fans screamed his name. Mavs star Luka Doncic is latest pro athlete whose home was burglarized, business manager says DALLAS (AP) — Luka Doncic of the Dallas Mavericks is the latest professional athlete whose home has been burglarized. The star guard’s business manager tells multiple media outlets there was a break-in at Doncic’s home Friday night. Lara Beth Seager says nobody was home, and Doncic filed a police report. The Dallas Morning News reports that jewelry valued at about $30,000 was stolen. Doncic is the sixth known pro athlete in the U.S. whose home was burglarized since October. Star NFL quarterbacks Patrick Mahomes of Kansas City and Joe Burrow of Cincinnati are among them. The NFL and NBA have issued security alerts to players over the break-ins. Victor Wembanyama plays 1-on-1 chess with fans in New York Victor Wembanyama went to a park in New York City and played 1-on-1 with fans on Saturday. He even lost a couple of games. Not in basketball, though. Wemby was playing chess. Before the San Antonio Spurs left New York for a flight to Minnesota, Wembanyama put out the call on social media: “Who wants to meet me at the SW corner of Washington Square park to play chess? Im there,” Wembanyama wrote. It was 9:36 a.m. And people began showing up almost immediately. Norwegian chess grandmaster Magnus Carlsen quits a tournament in a dispute over jeans NEW YORK (AP) — The International Chess Federation says top ranked player Magnus Carlsen has left the World Rapid and Blitz Chess Championships after refusing to change out of the jeans he wore to the competition. The federation said Friday that its regulations include a dress code that bars participants from wearing jeans at the event. The Norwegian chess grandmaster says he accepted a $200 fine but refused to change his pants out of principle before leaving the competition in New York. The federation said the dress code is designed to ensure professionalism and fairness for all participants. Trailblazing model Dayle Haddon dies from suspected carbon monoxide poisoning NEW HOPE, Pa. (AP) — A trailblazing former “Sports Illustrated” model who pushed back against age discrimination has died in a Pennsylvania home from what authorities believe was carbon monoxide poisoning. Authorities in Bucks County found 76-year-old Dayle Haddon, dead in a second-floor bedroom Friday morning after emergency dispatchers were notified about a person unconscious at the Solebury Township home. A 76-year-old man who was also in the home was hospitalized in critical condition. As a model, Haddon appeared on dozens of magazine coverage in the 1970s and 1980s. She then reentered the industry in the 1990s after landing contracts with cosmetic companies to promote their anti-aging products. 2 Oregon men die from exposure in a forest after they went out to look for Sasquatch STEVENSON, Wash. (AP) — Officials say two Oregon men have died in a Washington state forest after they failed to return from a trip to look for Sasquatch. The Skamania County Sheriff’s Office says the 59-year-old and 37-year-old appear to have died from exposure. The sheriff's office says it based that conclusion on the weather and their lack of preparedness. Both men were from Portland. They were found in a heavily wooded area of the Gifford Pinchot National Forest northeast of that city. Family reported them missing after they failed to return from a Christmas Eve outing. Sasquatch is a folkloric beast thought by some to roam the forests, particularly in the Pacific Northwest.
Mixing different experiences together usually requires owning a virtual or augmented reality headset, but the latest partnership between Disney, ESPN, and the NBA is changing the tune of the iconic Christmas Day games. This upcoming special broadcast is called "Dunk the Halls," and it will feature some of the most iconic animated characters from Disney to join the basketball game. A massive roster of classic Disney animated characters are coming to the ball game which will also see the hardcourt transform into a renowned location found on the Walt Disney World as part of the experience. Disney, ESPN to Transform NBA's Christmas Day Game This 2024 ESPN announced its latest partnerships to deliver a new kind of animated sports experience that will deliver a new kind of NBA Christmas Day game experience for families worldwide. This three-way partnership between Disney, ESPN, and the NBA is now looking to transform the regular NBA Christmas Day game featuring the San Antonio Spurs and the New York Knicks. According to the release, this will be the first NBA game that will stream on Disney+,... Isaiah Richard
Dana Hull | (TNS) Bloomberg News Jared Birchall, Elon Musk’s money manager and the head of his family office, is listed as the chief executive officer. Jehn Balajadia, a longtime Musk aide who has worked at SpaceX and the Boring Co., is named as an official contact. Related Articles National Politics | Biden will decide on US Steel acquisition after influential panel fails to reach consensus National Politics | Biden vetoes once-bipartisan effort to add 66 federal judgeships, citing ‘hurried’ House action National Politics | A history of the Panama Canal — and why Trump can’t take it back on his own National Politics | President-elect Trump wants to again rename North America’s tallest peak National Politics | Inside the Gaetz ethics report, a trove of new details alleging payments for sex and drug use But they’re not connected to Musk’s new technology venture, or the political operation that’s endeared him to Donald Trump. Instead, they’re tied to the billionaire’s new Montessori school outside Bastrop, Texas, called Ad Astra, according to documents filed with state authorities and obtained via a Texas Public Information Act request. The world’s richest person oversees an overlapping empire of six companies — or seven, if you include his political action committee. Alongside rockets, electric cars, brain implants, social media and the next Trump administration, he is increasingly focused on education, spanning preschool to college. One part of his endeavor was revealed last year, when Bloomberg News reported that his foundation had set aside roughly $100 million to create a technology-focused primary and secondary school in Austin, with eventual plans for a university. An additional $137 million in cash and stock was allotted last year, according to the most recent tax filing for the Musk Foundation. Ad Astra is closer to fruition. The state documents show Texas authorities issued an initial permit last month, clearing the way for the center to operate with as many as 21 pupils. Ad Astra’s website says it’s “currently open to all children ages 3 to 9.” The school’s account on X includes job postings for an assistant teacher for preschool and kindergarten and an assistant teacher for students ages 6 to 9. To run the school, Ad Astra is partnering with a company that has experience with billionaires: Xplor Education, which developed Hala Kahiki Montessori school in Lanai, Hawaii, the island 98% owned by Oracle Corp. founder Larry Ellison. Ad Astra sits on a highway outside Bastrop, a bedroom community about 30 miles from Austin and part of a region that’s home to several of Musk’s businesses. On a visit during a recent weekday morning, there was a single Toyota Prius in the parking lot and no one answered the door at the white building with a gray metal roof. The school’s main entrance was blocked by a gate, and there was no sign of any children on the grounds. But what information there is about Ad Astra makes it sound like a fairly typical, if high-end, Montessori preschool. The proposed schedule includes “thematic, STEM-based activities and projects” as well as outdoor play and nap time. A sample snack calendar features carrots and hummus. While Birchall’s and Balajadia’s names appear in the application, it isn’t clear that they’ll have substantive roles at the school once it’s operational. Musk, Birchall and Balajadia didn’t respond to emailed questions. A phone call and email to the school went unanswered. Access to high quality, affordable childcare is a huge issue for working parents across the country, and tends to be an especially vexing problem in rural areas like Bastrop. Many families live in “childcare deserts” where there is either not a facility or there isn’t an available slot. Opening Ad Astra gives Musk a chance to showcase his vision for education, and his support for the hands-on learning and problem solving that are a hallmark of his industrial companies. His public comments about learning frequently overlap with cultural concerns popular among conservatives and the Make America Great Again crowd, often focusing on what he sees as young minds being indoctrinated by teachers spewing left-wing propaganda. He has railed against diversity, equity and inclusion efforts, and in August posted that “a lot of schools are teaching white boys to hate themselves.” Musk’s educational interests dovetail with his new role as Trump’s “first buddy.” The billionaire has pitched a role for himself that he — and now the incoming Trump administration — call “DOGE,” or the Department of Government Efficiency. Though it’s not an actual department, DOGE now posts on X, the social media platform that Musk owns. “The Department of Education spent over $1 billion promoting DEI in America’s schools,” the account posted Dec. 12. Back in Texas, Bastrop is quickly becoming a key Musk point of interest. The Boring Co., his tunneling venture, is based in an unincorporated area there. Across the road, SpaceX produces Starlink satellites at a 500,000-square-foot (46,000-square-meter) facility. Nearby, X is constructing a building for trust and safety workers. Musk employees, as well as the general public, can grab snacks at the Boring Bodega, a convenience store housed within Musk’s Hyperloop Plaza, which also contains a bar, candy shop and hair salon. Ad Astra is just a five-minute drive away. It seems to have been designed with the children of Musk’s employees — if not Musk’s own offspring — in mind. Musk has fathered at least 12 children, six of them in the last five years. “Ad Astra’s mission is to foster curiosity, creativity, and critical thinking in the next generation of problem solvers and builders,” reads the school’s website. A job posting on the website of the Montessori Institute of North Texas says “While their parents support the breakthroughs that expand the realm of human possibility, their children will grow into the next generation of innovators in a way that only authentic Montessori can provide.” The school has hired an executive director, according to documents Bloomberg obtained from Texas Health and Human Services. Ad Astra is located on 40 acres of land, according to the documents, which said a 4,000-square-foot house would be remodeled for the preschool. It isn’t uncommon for entrepreneurs to take an interest in education, according to Bill Gormley, a professor emeritus at the McCourt School of Public Policy at Georgetown University who studies early childhood education. Charles Butt, the chairman of the Texas-based H-E-B grocery chain, has made public education a focus of his philanthropy. Along with other business and community leaders, Butt founded “Raise Your Hand Texas,” which advocates on school funding, teacher workforce and retention issues and fully funding pre-kindergarten. “Musk is not the only entrepreneur to recognize the value of preschool for Texas workers,” Gormley said. “A lot of politicians and business people get enthusiastic about education in general — and preschool in particular — because they salivate at the prospect of a better workforce.” Political Moves Musk spent much of October actively campaigning for Trump’s presidential effort, becoming the most prolific donor of the election cycle. He poured at least $274 million into political groups in 2024, including $238 million to America PAC, the political action committee he founded. While the vast majority of money raised by America PAC came from Musk himself, it also had support from other donors. Betsy DeVos, who served as education secretary in Trump’s first term, donated $250,000, federal filings show. The Department of Education is already in the new administration’s cross hairs. Trump campaigned on the idea of disbanding the department and dismantling diversity initiatives, and he has also taken aim at transgender rights. “Rather than indoctrinating young people with inappropriate racial, sexual, and political material, which is what we’re doing now, our schools must be totally refocused to prepare our children to succeed in the world of work,” Trump wrote in Agenda 47, his campaign platform. Musk has three children with the musician Grimes and three with Shivon Zilis, who in the past was actively involved at Neuralink, his brain machine interface company. All are under the age of five. Musk took X, his son with Grimes, with him on a recent trip to Capitol Hill. After his visit, he shared a graphic that showed the growth of administrators in America’s public schools since 2000. Tuition Costs Musk is a fan of hands-on education. During a Tesla earnings call in 2018, he talked about the need for more electricians as the electric-car maker scaled up the energy side of its business. On the Joe Rogan podcast in 2020, Musk said that “too many smart people go into finance and law.” “I have a lot of respect for people who work with their hands and we need electricians and plumbers and carpenters,” Musk said while campaigning for Trump in Pennsylvania in October. “That’s a lot more important than having incremental political science majors.” Ad Astra’s website says the cost of tuition will be initially subsidized, but in future years “tuition will be in line with local private schools that include an extended day program.” “I do think we need significant reform in education,” Musk said at a separate Trump campaign event. “The priority should be to teach kids skills that they will find useful later in life, and to leave any sort of social propaganda out of the classroom.” With assistance from Sophie Alexander and Kara Carlson. ©2024 Bloomberg News. Visit at bloomberg.com. Distributed by Tribune Content Agency, LLC.MGX DEADLINE MONDAY: ROSEN, A TOP RANKED LAW FIRM, Encourages Metagenomi, Inc. Investors to ...
NEW YORK , Dec. 24, 2024 /PRNewswire/ -- Rosen Law Firm, a global investor rights law firm, announces the filing of a class action lawsuit on behalf of all purchasers of common stock of MGP Ingredients, Inc. (NASDAQ: MGPI) between May 4, 2023 and October 30, 2024 . A class action lawsuit has already been filed. If you wish to serve as lead plaintiff, you must move the Court no later than February 14, 2025 . So what: If you purchased MGPI common stock during the Class Period you may be entitled to compensation without payment of any out of pocket fees or costs through a contingency fee arrangement. What to do next: To join the MGPI class action, go to https://rosenlegal.com/submit-form/?case_id=9167 or call Phillip Kim, Esq. toll-free at 866-767-3653 or email case@rosenlegal.com for information on the class action. A class action lawsuit has already been filed. If you wish to serve as lead plaintiff, you must move the Court no later than February 14, 2025 . A lead plaintiff is a representative party acting on behalf of other class members in directing the litigation. Why Rosen Law: We encourage investors to select qualified counsel with a track record of success in leadership roles. Often, firms issuing notices do not have comparable experience, resources, or any meaningful peer recognition. Be wise in selecting counsel. The Rosen Law Firm represents investors throughout the globe, concentrating its practice in securities class actions and shareholder derivative litigation. Rosen Law Firm has achieved the largest ever securities class action settlement against a Chinese Company at the time. Rosen Law Firm was Ranked No. 1 by ISS Securities Class Action Services for number of securities class action settlements in 2017. The firm has been ranked in the top 4 each year since 2013 and has recovered hundreds of millions of dollars for investors. In 2019 alone the firm secured over $438 million for investors. In 2020, founding partner Laurence Rosen was named by law360 as a Titan of Plaintiffs' Bar. Many of the firm's attorneys have been recognized by Lawdragon and Super Lawyers. Details of the case: According to the lawsuit, defendants throughout the Class Period made materially false and/or misleading statements, and failed to disclose material adverse facts about MGPI's business, operations, and prospects. Specifically, defendants repeatedly touted a strong demand and "normal" inventory levels in brown goods (i.e., American whiskies and tequila), when in fact there had been a slowdown in consumption and oversupply in their products. Worse, defendants had assured investors that they were positioned differently than their competitors, and that this was a non-issue, because MGPI had already taken steps to mitigate the risk, when in fact it had not. When the true details entered the market, the lawsuit claims that investors suffered damages. To join the MGPI class action, go to https://rosenlegal.com/submit-form/?case_id=9167 or call Phillip Kim, Esq. toll-free at 866-767-3653 or email case@rosenlegal.com for information on the class action. No Class Has Been Certified. Until a class is certified, you are not represented by counsel unless you retain one. You may select counsel of your choice. You may also remain an absent class member and do nothing at this point. An investor's ability to share in any potential future recovery is not dependent upon serving as lead plaintiff. Follow us for updates on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/the-rosen-law-firm , on Twitter: https://twitter.com/rosen_firm or on Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/rosenlawfirm/ . Attorney Advertising. Prior results do not guarantee a similar outcome. Contact Information: Laurence Rosen, Esq. Phillip Kim, Esq. The Rosen Law Firm, P.A. 275 Madison Avenue, 40th Floor New York, NY 10016 Tel: (212) 686-1060 Toll Free: (866) 767-3653 Fax: (212) 202-3827 case@rosenlegal.com www.rosenlegal.com View original content to download multimedia: https://www.prnewswire.com/news-releases/mgpi-investors-have-opportunity-to-lead-mgp-ingredients-inc-securities-fraud-lawsuit-302338947.html SOURCE THE ROSEN LAW FIRM, P. A.
How Caitlyn Jenner's Chances of Winning California Governor Have ChangedThanksgiving Travel Latest: Airport strike, staff shortages and weather could impact holiday travel
A water taxi travels on the Fraser River past cargo containers stacked at Fraser Surrey Docks below houses on a hill, in Surrey, B.C., on Nov. 4. DARRYL DYCK/The Canadian Press Daniel Schwanen is senior vice-president at the C.D. Howe Institute. Ari Van Assche is a fellow-in-residence with the institute and co-director of the International Institute for Economic Diplomacy at HEC Montréal. They are the authors of the institute’s recent report “The Reconfiguration of Global Supply Chains.” The supply chains serving Canadian markets cannot seem to catch a break. Over the past five years, they have been battered by global economic uncertainties, due diligence legislations and domestic logistical bottlenecks. Now, with U.S. president-elect Donald Trump vowing to impose a 25-per-cent tariff on all imports from Canada as soon as he takes office, and our government poised to retaliate , these supply chain troubles are bound to persist. While countries such as the United States and Australia have already adopted national supply chain strategies to enhance the security and resilience of their supply chains, Canada remains behind. This lag is concerning and demands swift action. Our government must recognize the urgent need for a comprehensive supply chain strategy that recognizes the vital role of efficient supply chains in this country’s prosperity, de-risks chokepoints that may disrupt the supply of essential goods to Canadian markets and fortifies our position within the critical supply chains that serve our major trading partners. Canada’s supply chain woes have emerged from multiple fronts. The COVID-19 pandemic starkly exposed how breakdowns in distant parts of the supply chain can quickly lead to crippling goods shortages in the Canadian market. Geopolitical tensions, such as the U.S.-China trade war and Mr. Trump’s promise to impose tariffs on Canada and Mexico have further complicated supply chain dynamics, compelling businesses to adapt and reconfigure their operations – sometimes through friendshoring and reshoring – to maintain efficiency and competitiveness. Domestically, infrastructure issues and due diligence legislations have compounded these supply chain challenges. Canada’s vast geography and reliance on a limited number of transportation corridors make the country particularly susceptible to disruptions. Rail blockades, port strikes and extreme weather events have all contributed to significant supply chain disruptions that have increased costs for Canadian businesses. Additionally, due diligence laws, such as Canada’s modern slavery act, while necessary, have added further complexity, mandating companies to take concrete steps to “know their suppliers” to prevent human rights and environmental violations within their supply chains. In the face of such persistent challenges, it is imperative for Canada to develop a comprehensive supply chain strategy that can strengthen the efficiency and resiliency of its supply chains. The stakes are high – Canada’s prosperity depends on it. Well-functioning supply chains are key for tackling issues such as affordability, productivity and security, which are essential for improving the standard of living for all Canadians. The cornerstone of Canada’s supply chain strategy must be to invest in and support the formation of open, diverse, reliable and socially responsible international supply chains. For most products, the globalized nature of supply chains is a boon for our prosperity. To further streamline them, we must take concrete actions to facilitate trade both within and across Canadian borders, invest in our aging transportation infrastructure and develop robust traceability standards that can improve our firms’ global supply chain mapping capabilities. De-risking supply chains is vital in strategic industries that are central to our economic stability. To safeguard these sectors from supply chain disruptions, Canada must present an integrated, data-driven approach to its supply chain strategy. The strategy needs to identify those strategic sectors that are vital to our national interests, monitor potential chokepoints within their associated supply chains and determine the preferred risk mitigation strategies. This could include diversifying our supplier base, investing in domestic production capabilities and forging stronger international partnerships. Canada’s supply chain strategy must employ a similar data-driven approach to pinpoint our strongpoints within the critical supply chains that support our major trading partners. By understanding the importance of Canadian products in the supply chains that serve the U.S., China and others such as critical minerals, energy resources, medical technology and automotive components, we can better withstand tariff pledges and shape our strategic engagements with these nations. Investing in these strongpoints not only boosts our economic resilience but also strengthens our position in the global market. Bottom-line: Canada’s supply chains are at a crossroads. They face challenges that are significant, but not insurmountable. By adopting a comprehensive supply chain strategy, the Canadian government can turn these challenges into opportunities. This proactive approach would not only stabilize the current trade environment but also position our country as a resilient and competitive player in the global market. The time for action is now, and with the right strategy Canada can boost its chances for a prosperous economic future.
RED BLUFF — It’s not often that principals and students embrace and shout happily at one another, but Friday night was a special occasion. With a 21-10 victory over the Foothill Cougars, the Red Bluff Spartans secured their first Northern Section championship berth in 25 years. The Spartans (10-2), seeded third in Division II, got off to a slow start against a Foothill team (7-4) that beat them 29-26 in Eastern Athletic League play. Red Bluff will play top-seeded Pleasant Valley, to whom the Spartans forfeited an EAL game. It took a while Friday for Red Bluff to establish its ground game with the rain pouring. Zach Shaver was the driving force behind the running strategy. The Spartans punted on their first possession. Red Bluff’s defense was able to hold off Foothill’s initial short passes and force a punt. It was like this for the quarter; neither team could get a strong foothold in their opponent’s territory. With both teams running a lot, the clock did not stop much, and before anyone knew it, the first quarter ended scoreless. Foothill had possession of the ball to start the second and continued to pound the forward with a few passes to shake things up. A sack by Red Bluff’s Bryce Owens squashed what progress the Cougars made at that point. An offensive pass interference call went against Foothill soon after, dampening their momentum further. The Spartans had pass completions to Elijah Hohenberger, Landon Kunau and Brice Clinger. They could not keep this up, though, and ended their drive with a punt. Finally, Foothill’s game plan bore some fruit. The Cougars marched up the field, but the Spartans stopped them from approaching the end zone. The Cougars’ Evan Hutchings kicked a 35-yard field goal to put Foothill up 3-0. Multiple runs by Shaver got Red Bluff within striking distance of scoring. When Kayden Leaf’s 35-yard pass came to Hohenberger, he took the ball and ran straight into the end zone. The Spartans were up 7-3, and Foothill decided to run out the clock to halftime. Neither team was able to establish much at the start of the third quarter. It took a while, but Foothill began finding more success with passes and runs. Penalties that went against the Spartans did not help matters, either. The Cougars scored on a short touchdown run to retake the lead, 10-7. Fortunately for Red Bluff, those were the last points Foothill scored on the night. The running game, anchored by Cruz Servera and Shaver, countered the Cougars’ score by moving the ball upfield, setting up Leaf to quarterback-sneak his way into a touchdown. Red Bluff was up again, 14-10. Foothill tried to respond but could not move the ball and was forced to punt. Leaf opened the next drive with a small gain, then found his favorite target Kunau for deep pass play out the 40-yard line, A Shaver run pushed Red Bluff forward into Foothill territory. That set up a short pass play to Owens, who turned it into a touchdown and a 21-10 lead. After the game, Coach Jacob Daricek joked the rain was not so bad with a victory. “It’s awesome for our town, for our community, for all the coaches that they’ve had,” Daricek said. “You know, in the past, they all played a role in this, from the junior Spartans on. Let’s just go on to get PV!” The Spartans will play top-seeded Pleasant Valley on Saturday at 7 p.m. at Asgard Yard. It will be the Spartans’ first Northern Section championship appearance since they defeated Enterprise 34-2 for the 1999 Division I title.NEW YORK (AP) — No ex-president had a more prolific and diverse publishing career than Jimmy Carter . His more than two dozen books included nonfiction, poetry, fiction, religious meditations and a children’s story. His memoir “An Hour Before Daylight” was a Pulitzer Prize finalist in 2002, while his 2006 best-seller “Palestine: Peace Not Apartheid” stirred a fierce debate by likening Israel’s policies in the West Bank to the brutal South African system of racial segregation. And just before his 100th birthday, the Dayton Literary Peace Prize Foundation honored him with a lifetime achievement award for how he wielded “the power of the written word to foster peace, social justice, and global understanding.” In one recent work, “A Full Life,” Carter observed that he “enjoyed writing” and that his books “provided a much-needed source of income.” But some projects were easier than others. “Everything to Gain,” a 1987 collaboration with his wife, Rosalynn, turned into the “worst threat we ever experienced in our marriage,” an intractable standoff for the facilitator of the Camp David accords and winner of the Nobel Peace Prize. According to Carter, Rosalynn was a meticulous author who considered “the resulting sentences as though they have come down from Mount Sinai, carved into stone.” Their memories differed on various events and they fell into “constant arguments.” They were ready to abandon the book and return the advance, until their editor persuaded them to simply divide any disputed passages between them. “In the book, each of these paragraphs is identified by a ‘J’ or an ‘R,’ and our marriage survived,” he wrote. Here is a partial list of books by Carter: “Keeping Faith: Memoirs of a President” “The Blood of Abraham: Insights into the Middle East” (With Rosalynn Carter) “Everything to Gain: Making the Most of the Rest of Your Life” “An Outdoor Journal: Adventures and Reflections” “Turning Point: A Candidate, a State, and a Nation Come of Age” “Always a Reckoning, and Other Poems” (With daughter Amy Carter) “The Little Baby Snoogle-Fleejer” “Living Faith” “The Virtues of Aging” “An Hour Before Daylight: Memories of a Rural Boyhood” “Christmas in Plains: Memories” “The Hornet’s Nest: A Novel of the Revolutionary War” “Our Endangered Values: America’s Moral Crisis” “Faith & Freedom: The Christian Challenge for the World” “Palestine: Peace Not Apartheid” “A Remarkable Mother” “Beyond the White House” “We Can Have Peace in the Holy Land: A Plan That Will Work” “White House Diary” “NIV Lessons from Life Bible: Personal Reflections with Jimmy Carter” “A Call to Action: Women, Religion, Violence, and Power” “A Full Life: Reflections at Ninety”
AP Trending SummaryBrief at 5:34 p.m. ESTLument Finance Trust, Inc. Declares Quarterly Cash Dividends for its Common and Preferred Stock and Announces Special Cash Dividend Distribution
Flames prospect Zayne Parekh looking to keep Canadian world junior dream alive
Timeline: Jimmy Carter, 1924-2024
Panelists discuss the importance of Africa's role in the UN during a session on 'The Role and Importance of Africa at the United Nations' at the 2024 KAIS Annual Conference in Seoul, Dec. 6. Courtesy of Korea-Africa Foundation By Kim Hyun-bin The Korea-Africa Foundation, chaired by Kim Young-chae, in collaboration with the Korean Association of International Studies (KAIS), hosted a session on "The Role and Importance of Africa at the United Nations" during the 2024 KAIS Annual Conference on Dec. 6, the foundation said Wednesday. Held under the overarching theme of "From the Inside Out: Global Complex Crisis and Korean Foreign Policy," the annual conference brought together scholars, policymakers and experts to discuss pressing global issues and Korea's diplomatic responses. The Africa session aimed to elevate national interest in Africa's contributions to the international community and broaden the scope of academic research on the subject. David J. Francis, former minister of Foreign Affairs of Sierra Leone, highlighted in his presentation the impactful history of UN peacekeeping operations in Sierra Leone. His speech, titled "Sierra Leone in the UN Security Council: Lessons for Africa in the New Multipolar World Order," emphasized that African nations could transition from being mere beneficiaries to active collaborators in international peacekeeping efforts. Eghosa E. Osaghae, secretary-general of the Nigerian Institute of International Affairs, discussed "Continuity and Change in Africa's Role at the UN," detailing Africa's journey to becoming a unified global actor through its engagements with the UN. "The UN has provided a platform for multilateral cooperation for African countries, enabling Africa to exert stronger global influence," Osaghae said. The panel discussion, moderated by Oh Joon, chairman of Save the Children Korea, featured Kim Tae-kyun, director of the Asia-Africa Center at Seoul National University, and Kim Dong-seok, associate professor at the Institute of Foreign Affairs and National Security. The panelists delved into the cooperation models between the UN and Africa and discussed future challenges and opportunities. In a significant development, the Korea-Africa Foundation and KAIS signed a Memorandum of Understanding (MOU) to further academic and policy collaboration. The MOU outlines joint efforts in planning and conducting international academic conferences, collaborative research and publication in African and international political fields, as well as strengthening policy dialogues and exchanges through their networks.As the world marks the 2024 16 days of Activism Against Gender-Based Violence themed “Towards Beijing +30: UNiTE to End Violence Against Women and Girls,” which holds from November 25 to December 10 annually across the globe, an Abuja-based non-governmental organisation (NGO), the FAME Foundation, has launched its Femicide Tracker designed to report and document violence against women and girls across Nigeria. Tribune Online reports that femicide is the intentional killing of a woman or girl because of her gender. It is a universal problem and the most brutal, visible, and extreme manifestation of the cycle of gender-based violence that women and girls endure. Speaking during a press conference in Abuja on Monday, the Executive Director, FAME Foundation, Arabinrin Aderonke, said with the launch of the tracker, the issue of femicide will be put on the spot as part of collective action to create a safer and more equitable world for women and girls while their rights are also protected. She described gender-based violence as not just a personal or family problem but a societal crisis that has had negative impacts on communities and nations, while she expressed the commitment of her organisation to raise awareness, provide education, as well as promote community engagement to end the ugly trend. “The 16 Days of Activism Against Gender-Based Violence, is an annual global campaign that runs from November 25th, the International Day for the Elimination of Violence Against Women, to December 10th, Human Rights Day. This movement seeks to highlight the pervasive issue of gender-based violence and rally efforts to combat it. “This year’s theme, ‘Towards Beijing +30: UNiTE to End Violence Against Women and Girls,’ underscores the urgency of collective action to create a safer, more equitable world. Gender-based violence is not just a person or family problem; it is a societal crisis that impacts communities and nations. We cannot afford to be silent, complacent, or divided in our efforts. “At FAME Foundation, we remain steadfast in our commitment to raising awareness, providing education, and promoting community engagement. Today, I am proud to announce the launch of our Femicide Tracker, an important tool that allows for the reporting and documentation of femicide cases. This tool will help ensure that no case goes unnoticed, no story is silenced, and that we, as a society, can work toward justice and accountability for victims and their families. “By utilising this tool, we aim to spotlight this pressing issue and mobilise action against the rising trend of femicide. Together, we can shed light on these tragedies and work toward a future where such violence is eradicated. “This year, our activities are designed to amplify awareness, empower people, and engage communities. Over the next 16 days, we will host various initiatives, including online campaigns, podcasts addressing critical aspects of gender-based violence, community outreach at IDP Camp, panel discussions, social media advocacy, and conversations that challenge harmful norms. We aim to inspire action and bring this issue to the forefront of public discourse. “We will also launch the hashtag campaign #HereForHer, a call to action for everyone to stand united against gender-based violence. This campaign serves as a reminder of the collective responsibility we share to protect and empower women and girls. “Let us remember, awareness is just the starting point. True change requires a sustained and united effort. It demands a commitment from governments to enforce laws that protect women, from civil society to create supportive environments, and from people to challenge harmful behaviours and attitudes. Together, we can build communities where women and girls not only survive but thrive, free from fear and violence,” Aderonke said. She added, “To use the tracker, visit our website and locate the femicide report on the dashboard. The tracker contains a form that captures necessary details about a femicide case. When the form is filled and the cases are verified, they are updated on the live infographics that people, law enforcement agents, policymakers, and all other first respondents can access and utilise to advance the fight against femicide. “We have a dedicated officer who checks these reports, and she will follow up on the complainer by calling and asking for more details about the case. Once they report to us, we can escalate it by reporting it to the appropriate authorities. This will, in the long run, end femicide in Nigeria when justice is served.” Nearly one in three women experiences violence in their lifetime. Girls are at particular risk of violence, as 1 in 4 adolescent girls is abused by their partners. READ MORE FROM: NIGERIAN TRIBUNE Get real-time news updates from Tribune Online! Follow us on WhatsApp for breaking news, exclusive stories and interviews, and much more. Join our WhatsApp Channel now
The Brooklyn Nets are gearing up for the future, having stockpiled a staggering 31 draft picks over the next seven years, including 15 first-round picks and 16 second-round picks. This impressive haul positions the franchise to build a sustainable foundation or use their draft capital for potential blockbuster trades. Ever since dismantling the Kevin Durant and Kyrie Irving era, the Nets have shifted their focus to long-term planning, taking calculated steps to ensure flexibility and growth. Under the leadership of GM Sean Marks, the Nets have executed one of the most impressive rebuild strategies in recent NBA history. The decision to part ways with Kevin Durant and Kyrie Irving was a pivotal moment for the franchise. While the duo brought star power to Brooklyn, their tenure failed to deliver the championship aspirations many had hoped for. The subsequent trades involving Durant to the Phoenix Suns and Irving to the Dallas Mavericks yielded significant draft capital, signaling a new direction for the team. These trades alone brought in multiple first-round and second-round picks, helping lay the groundwork for the Nets’ rebuild. Since the Durant-Irving breakup, the Nets have been highly strategic in their approach to the trade market. Recent trades, such as the Dennis Schroder trade to the Warriors and the Dorian-Finney Smith trade to the Lakers , added six second-round picks to their already massive collection. Moves like these demonstrate the Nets’ commitment to accumulating assets that can either be used to draft and develop young talent or serve as valuable currency in future transactions. Notably, the Mikal Bridges trade has also played a significant role in boosting the Nets’ draft stock. The Suns’ and Knicks’ picks tied to Bridges have contributed four first-round selections to Brooklyn’s war chest. Additionally, trades involving other key players, such as James Harden and Royce O’Neale, have added further layers to their pick stockpile. By amassing 31 picks, the Nets have positioned themselves as one of the most flexible teams in the league. With 15 first-round picks, they have ample opportunity to draft elite talent or package picks in deals to land an established star when the right opportunity arises. The 16 second-round picks provide additional depth, giving the team access to overlooked prospects or trade sweeteners to seal deals. The Nets’ ability to remain under the luxury tax bracket is another key element of their strategy. By offloading contracts and creating cap space, the franchise has the financial flexibility to pursue high-impact moves in free agency while continuing to maximize their draft assets. The future for the Nets is loaded with possibilities. With 15 first-round picks, they can draft and develop a core of young players, creating a sustainable contender over time. Alternatively, the front office could bundle picks to acquire a superstar, transforming Brooklyn into an immediate powerhouse. The sheer number of assets they hold ensures they have a seat at the table for any major trade discussions in the coming years. The Brooklyn Nets’ accumulation of 31 draft picks over the next seven years is a testament to their strategic vision and adaptability. After the Durant-Irving era, the team has pivoted to a forward-looking approach that prioritizes flexibility and long-term success. With their war chest of picks, the Nets are well-equipped to navigate the ever-changing landscape of the NBA, whether through drafting, trading, or free agency. The future in Brooklyn looks brighter than ever, as the Nets aim to reestablish themselves as one of the league’s most formidable franchises. This article first appeared on Fadeaway World and was syndicated with permission.Family searching for missing package sent by uncle just days before his death
NEW YORK — The man charged with killing UnitedHealthcare CEO Brian Thompson was not a client of the medical insurer and may have targeted it because of its size and influence, a senior police official said Thursday. NYPD Chief of Detectives Joseph Kenny told NBC New York in an interview Thursday that investigators have uncovered evidence that Luigi Mangione had prior knowledge UnitedHealthcare was holding its annual investor conference in New York City. Mangione also mentioned the company in a note found in his possession when he was detained by police in Pennsylvania. "We have no indication that he was ever a client of United Healthcare, but he does make mention that it is the fifth largest corporation in America, which would make it the largest healthcare organization in America. So that's possibly why he targeted that company," Kenny said. UnitedHealthcare is in the top 20 largest U.S. companies by market capitalization but is not the fifth largest. It is the largest U.S. health insurer. Mangione remains jailed without bail in Pennsylvania, where he was arrested Monday after being spotted at a McDonald's in the city of Altoona, about 230 miles west of New York City. His lawyer there, Thomas Dickey, said Mangione intends to plead not guilty. Dickey also said he had yet to see evidence decisively linking his client to the crime. Mangione's arrest came five days after the caught-on-camera killing of Thompson outside a Manhattan hotel. Luigi Mangione, a 26-year-old Ivy League graduate, was arrested on December 9, 2024, after a six-day manhunt and charged with the murder of UnitedHealthcare CEO Brian Thompson. His arrest has sparked a viral social media movement, with many hailing him as a symbol of resistance against systemic healthcare failures. The #FreeLuigi movement gained significant traction, with his social media profiles amassing over 100,000 new followers before being suspended. Despite this, the movement continues to trend, highlighting public discontent with the U.S. healthcare system. Some social media users argue that Mangione's radicalization stemmed from the struggles faced by millions in obtaining necessary healthcare, and not from his university education. Mangione’s arrest at a McDonald's in Altoona led to the seizure of a "ghost gun," a suppressor, fake IDs, and a manifesto criticizing the healthcare system. While the manifesto seems to admit guilt, some users question Mangione's responsibility, pointing out discrepancies in surveillance photos. The fascination with Mangione has only intensified, with discussions about his attractiveness and comparisons to characters in Ryan Murphy's productions. The phenomenon is reminiscent of society's long-standing obsession with infamous criminals, blurring lines between horror and hero worship. Former FBI agent Rob D’Amico noted that Mangione is seen by some as a "Robin Hood" figure fighting against corporate greed, which complicates the investigation. Police say the shooter waited outside the hotel, where the health insurer was holding its investor conference, early Dec. 4. He approached Thompson from behind and shot him before fleeing on a bicycle through Central Park. Mangione is fighting attempts to extradite him back to New York so that he can face a murder charge in Thompson's killing. A hearing was scheduled for Dec. 30. The 26-year-old, who police say was found with a " ghost gun " matching shell casings found at the site of the shooting, is charged in Pennsylvania with possession of an unlicensed firearm, forgery and providing false identification to police. Luigi Mangione was arrested Monday in Altoona, Pennsylvania, in connection with the killing of UnitedHealthcare CEO Brian Thompson in what law enforcement has called a "targeted attack." Mangione is from a prominent Maryland family with extensive business interests. The Mangione family is known for developing real estate and running businesses. Relatives expressed shock over the arrest and offered condolences to Thompson’s family. Mangione faces multiple charges, including murder, firearm possession, and forgery, in New York and Pennsylvania. Mangione is an Ivy League graduate from a prominent Maryland real estate family. In posts on social media, Mangione wrote about experiencing severe chronic back pain before undergoing a spinal fusion surgery in 2023. Afterward, he posted that the operation was a success and that his pain improved and mobility returned. He urged others to consider the same type of surgery. On Wednesday, police said investigators are looking at his writings about his health problems and his criticism of corporate America and the U.S. health care system. Kenny said in the NBC interview that Mangione's family reported him missing to San Francisco authorities in November. Get the latest in local public safety news with this weekly email.Jimmy Carter: A brief bio