bet you wanna lyrics
Riding a 3-game win streak, the Bengals cling to playoff hopes with the Broncos next
Israeli defense minister claims responsibility for the first time for Hamas leader Haniyeh's assassinationFAIRMONT — Victims of domestic violence and sexual assault will soon be able to access court protection orders remotely thanks to a program adopted by the West Virginia Supreme Court of Appeals. “We want individuals to be able to come into court,” Lisa Tackett, director of court services, said. “These are very volatile situations that people are in. We want them to feel they’re able to tell the court exactly what’s going on in their lives and ask for that protection.” Tackett presented the Remote Victim Outreach Program to officials in Marion County Tuesday. The program is in 11 counties, Tackett said the goal is to expand it to all 55 counties. Marion and Monongalia counties joined this week. The program will partner with HOPE Inc., to provide victims a safe place to go and access a judge through a virtual courtroom and request vital protection orders without having to encounter their assailant. The remote option is already available in Cabell, Harrison, Jefferson, Kanawha, Lincoln, Mason, Ohio, Wayne and Wood counties. Tackett said it’s important for people to feel safe and secure. The program came to Marion County after Family Court Judge Susan Riffle called Tackett’s office to discuss how small her courtroom was. With only one way in and out, as well as the fact that assailants and victims were in such close quarters, Riffle told Tackett she heard from victim advocates that people didn’t feel safe. “Even though there’s a bailiff in the courtroom, there’s still a lot of fear that happens,” Riffle said. “It’s important to the court system that we provide access, and that people feel safe when they’re asking for the court to protect them.” That spurred a visit from Tackett, who immediately agreed Marion County had to be part of the rollout with Morgantown after seeing what Riffle and the magistrates have to work with. In person hearings can be especially fraught for victims who have to share the room with their assailant. Nancy Hoffman, state coordinator for the West Virginia Foundation for Rape and Information Services, said intimidation doesn’t have to be spoken. It can be a look, a glare, or the assailant’s friends showing up and intimidating the victim through presence alone. “We know that having that safe space available where they can provide information, that makes more victims willing to come forward,” Hoffman said. “The more that victims are willing to come forward, the more offenders are held accountable. So it not only protects them in their situation, it protects those that are around them and that accountability can protect society.” Hoffman said she expects more victims to come forward now that this option is available. While remote technology offers a way for victims to access a judge without having to step into the courthouse, the option to do so will still be available. Magistrates and judges will need to work out the particulars of scheduling with Hope Inc., but the equipment has already been acquired for use, Tackett said. The units run between $5,000 to $8,000 dollars a piece, depending on what’s available. Tackett said her office reaches an average of three or four counties a year, so expansion to all 55 counties is still several years away. The federal grant that makes adding this option to courthouses opens on a yearly basis. She hopes to have the option available by Dec. 1. Anyone seeking to use the new system can file petitions during weekdays, after hours and on weekends through each county’s magistrate court by calling 911. “I hope it saves someone’s life in the process,” Tackett said.
LAS VEGAS , Dec. 24, 2024 /PRNewswire/ -- The leading charging solution provider TESSAN has announced its participation in CES 2025, where it will present its latest innovations designed to enhance connectivity and convenience for users. Visitors can explore the brand's new offerings at Booth 30562 in the Las Vegas Convention Center, South Hall 2. "Tessan aims to be a reliable companion for users in their lives and travels, ensuring that they stay connected at home or on the go. Participating in CES 2025 is also an opportunity for us to deepen the connection with more users, offering them a tangible experience of our commitment to innovation and sustainability," said Alex, CEO of TESSAN. At the heart of TESSAN's showcase are products that reflect its core values: simplicity and convenience, innovation and efficiency, as well as sustainability. Every product is designed with a user-centric approach, integrating advanced technologies and sustainable practices to meet modern demands. A highlight of the exhibit will be the 140W Universal Travel Adapter, designed for global use with EU, UK, US, and Australian plugs. Its lightweight, compact design makes it travel-ready. USB-C ports offer up to 140 watts for fast charging, while USB-A ports provide 18 watts. It can charge multiple devices simultaneously, including smartphones, laptops, cameras, and CPAP machines. Advanced safety features, like double-patented auto-resetting fuses, ensure secure operation. Another innovation on display is the 100W Charging Station. Compact and designed to save space, this multi-functional device can charge up to nine gadgets simultaneously at high speed. Its sleek upright design combines style with functionality, while robust safety measures safeguard devices from overcurrent, voltage surges, and overheating, ensuring uninterrupted charging around the clock. For electric vehicle owners, TESSAN will showcase its Level 2 Smart EV Charger, a high-performance charging solution that delivers up to 11.5kW/h, offering remote control via Wi-Fi or Bluetooth, off-peak scheduling, and adjustable currents. Compatible with most North American electric and plug-in hybrid vehicles, its SAE J1772 connector and water-resistant, fireproof design ensure safety and reliability. These innovative products have not gone unnoticed in the industry. In May 2024 , TESSAN was recognized at the MUSE Design Awards, earning gold and silver honors for its Intelligent Charging Set, multi-functional fast charging socket, and Household EV AC Charger. These accolades reflect the brand's dedication to blending exceptional design with cutting-edge functionality, resonating with users worldwide. Beyond technology, TESSAN remains deeply committed to environmental sustainability. In August 2024 , the brand received ClimatePartner certification, signifying its alignment with eco-friendly practices. Most recently, it announced a collaboration with the non-profit organization One Tree Planted, launching an initiative to plant 10,000 trees as part of its efforts to mitigate climate change and support global reforestation. As a brand committed to empowering users to explore the unknown while safeguarding the planet, TESSAN continues to lead through innovation, sustainability, and meaningful action. CES 2025 promises to be an exciting opportunity for audiences to witness these values brought to life. About TESSAN TESSAN, a trusted partner in charging solutions, is committed to enriching experiences both at home and during travel. The brand offers a wide array of products, including multifunctional power strips, travel adapters, wall extenders, and smart home devices. Supported by a robust R&D and production team, TESSAN develops innovative socket products for users across the globe. With the trust of over 20 million users, TESSAN empowers their journeys from home to every destination, promoting environmentally conscious electricity usage. For more information, visit www.tessan.com or the TESSAN Amazon store , and follow TESSAN on Facebook , Instagram , and YouTube . View original content to download multimedia: https://www.prnewswire.com/news-releases/ces-2025-preview-tessan-to-showcase-charging-solutions-for-enhanced-connectivity-and-convenience-302338829.html SOURCE TESSAN
Ottawa firefighters extinguished a fire that started at the top of 22-storey apartment building in Overbrook on Monday afternoon. Ottawa Fire Services say in a news release they received multiple 911 calls with reports of smoke and flames coming from a structure in the 200 block of Donald Street shortly before 12:10 p.m. Crews on scene confirmed the flames were coming from a unit on the top floor and began a "fast attack" on the fire inside. One they located the burning unit, they had to force entry. "Upon entry, the apartment was full of smoke causing zero visibility conditions," Ottawa fire said. Firefighters began searching for any occupants, but two full searches of the unit found no one inside. An Ottawa paramedics spokesperson reported no injuries. The fire was declared under control shortly before 1:25 p.m. Fire crews ventilated the building and checked the air quality before allowing residents to return to their homes. An Ottawa fire investigator has been dispatched to determine the cause. Shopping Trends The Shopping Trends team is independent of the journalists at CTV News. We may earn a commission when you use our links to shop. Read about us. Editor's Picks 10 Family Calendars And Planners That'll Help You Keep Track Of Everything In The New Year Our Guide To The Best Winter Boots You Can Get In Canada 16 Cozy Home Essentials That Cost Less Than $100 Home Our Guide To The Best Snow Shovels In Canada In 2024 (And Where To Get Them) 14 Of The Best Home Security Devices You Can Find Online Right Now (And They've Got The Reviews To Prove It) 13 Of The Best Fidget Toys For Adults Gifts The Clock Is Ticking — Shop These 25 Last-Minute Amazon Prime Gifts Now If You Have An Amazon Prime Account, These 70+ Crowd-Pleasing Gifts Will Still Arrive Before Christmas If You Have An Amazon Prime Account, These 50 Brilliant Stocking Stuffers Will Still Arrive Before Christmas Beauty 20 Products Your Dry, Dehydrated Skin Will Thank You For Ordering 14 Hydrating Face Masks That’ll Save Your Skin This December 12 Budget-Friendly Products To Add To Your Winter Skincare Routine Deals PSA: The Michael Kors Boxing Week Sale Is Happening Right Now The Silk & Snow End Of Year Sale Is Officially On — Here's What To Add To Your Cart The Best Early Boxing Day Deals On Amazon Canada For 2024 Ottawa Top Stories NEW | Ottawa mayor speaks on transit funding, federal turmoil in year-end interview SNOWFALL WARNING | Pre-Christmas storm forecasted in Ottawa with up to 20 cm of snow tonight Man handed 5th distracted driving charge for using cellphone on Hwy. 417 in Ottawa No injuries in Overbrook fire inside 22-storey apartment building Brockville, Ont. cafe giving hundreds of Christmas dinners to people in need What's open and closed in Ottawa over the holidays The Papery returns to historic home in Ottawa's Glebe neighbourhood after fire Municipality of The Nation, Ont. to increase taxes by 9.5 per cent CTVNews.ca Top Stories Quebec fugitive killed in Mexican resort town, RCMP say RCMP are confirming that a fugitive, Mathieu Belanger, wanted by Quebec provincial police has died in Mexico, in what local media are calling a murder. Trump again calls to buy Greenland after eyeing Canada and the Panama Canal First it was Canada, then the Panama Canal. Now, Donald Trump again wants Greenland. The president-elect is renewing unsuccessful calls he made during his first term for the U.S. to buy Greenland from Denmark, adding to the list of allied countries with which he's picking fights even before taking office. Canada regulator sues Rogers for alleged misleading claims about data offering Canada's antitrust regulator said on Monday it was suing Rogers Communications Inc, for allegedly misleading consumers about offering unlimited data under some phone plans. Multiple OnlyFans accounts featured suspected child sex abuse, investigator reports An experienced child exploitation investigator told Reuters he reported 26 accounts on the popular adults-only website OnlyFans to authorities, saying they appeared to contain sexual content featuring underage teen girls. King Charles ends royal warrants for Ben & Jerry's owner Unilever and Cadbury chocolatiers King Charles III has ended royal warrants for Cadbury and Unilever, which owns brands including Marmite and Ben & Jerry’s, in a blow to the household names. Man faces murder charges in death of woman who was lit on fire in New York City subway A man is facing murder charges in New York City for allegedly setting a woman on fire inside a subway train and then watching her die after she was engulfed in flames, police said Monday. 'Serious safety issues': Edmonton building where security guard was killed evacuated An apartment building where a security guard was killed earlier this month is being evacuated. Santa Claus cleared for travel in Canadian airspace Santa's sleigh has been cleared for travel in Canadian airspace, the federal government announced on Monday just ahead of the busy holiday season. Ex-OpenAI engineer who raised legal concerns about the technology he helped build has died Suchir Balaji, a former OpenAI engineer and whistleblower who helped train the artificial intelligence systems behind ChatGPT and later said he believed those practices violated copyright law, has died, according to his parents and San Francisco officials. He was 26. Atlantic No need to dream, White Christmas all but assured in the Maritimes An early nor'easter followed by a low-pressure system moving into the region all but ensure a Maritime White Christmas Santa Claus cleared for travel in Canadian airspace Santa's sleigh has been cleared for travel in Canadian airspace, the federal government announced on Monday just ahead of the busy holiday season. Court of appeal certifies class action lawsuit against health authority, former nurse A New Brunswick mother who is the lead plaintiff in a court case has received an early Christmas gift after the province’s top court certified her class action law suit. Toronto LIVE UPDATES | Parts of Ontario under snowfall warning Monday as holiday travellers hit the road Holiday travellers and commuters could be in for a messy drive on Monday morning as a significant round of snowfall moves into the region. Here are live updates on the situation in Toronto. Doug Ford dresses up like Santa to grant wishes in Christmas video In a video posted on social media on Monday morning, Ford is seen dressed up in a bright red Santa suit performing a personalized rendition of the famous 1823 poem "A Visit from St. Nicholas." 3 suspects wanted after alleged armed robbery at Vaughan commercial business York Regional Police (YRP) police are searching for three people after an alleged armed robbery in Vaughan, the latest in a series of violent commercial robberies happening around the Greater Toronto Area. Montreal Quebec fugitive killed in Mexican resort town, RCMP say RCMP are confirming that a fugitive, Mathieu Belanger, wanted by Quebec provincial police has died in Mexico, in what local media are calling a murder. Snow on the way as Montreal is put under weather advisory A weather advisory has been initiated for the Greater Montreal area, with 10 to 15 cm of snow expected to hit the ground. Judge rejects lawsuit tied to controversial 2017 Montreal Formula E car race An entrepreneur who sued the City of Montreal for not considering his bid to organize a 2017 electric car race has failed in his effort to obtain more than $3 million in compensation. Northern Ontario Fatal snowmobile crash in northern Ont. near Parry Sound A 30-year-old has died following a snowmobile crash near Parry Sound on Sunday. Teen passed out at coffee shop with bottle of booze on the table, northern Ont. police say A 19-year-old from Blind River is facing several charges following incidents at a coffee shop and in jail. Man charged with damaging downtown Sudbury eatery A man free on probation has been charged with causing significant damage to a restaurant on Elgin Street in downtown Sudbury over the weekend. Windsor City of Windsor reviewing other H4 properties, no longer pursuing Wellington Avenue The City of Windsor has announced it is no longer pursuing land at 700 Wellington Avenue and is looking at other properties for the new Homelessness and Housing Help Hub (H4). Parvovirus found in Belle River A local groomer has confirmed a positive case of parvovirus, found in Belle River. Santa Claus cleared for travel in Canadian airspace Santa's sleigh has been cleared for travel in Canadian airspace, the federal government announced on Monday just ahead of the busy holiday season. London Anonymous $2 million donation given to St. Joseph’s Health Care St. Joseph’s Health Care Foundation has received an anonymous $2 million donation from a local community member. Police issue holiday reminders following pair of break and enters Two break and enters in the north end of Sarnia within two kilometers of one another has prompted Sarnia police to issue an alert to residents. Next chapter for St. Thomas Elevated Park as it joins forces with Railworks Coalition Canada’s only Elevated Park is joining forces with other railway entities in St. Thomas. Kitchener Parts of southern Ontario under travel advisory Anyone planning to travel today is being urged to be prepared as 5 to 15 cm of snow could hit a large portion of southern Ontario. Beloved bookstore in Uptown Waterloo forced to close for months following fire A beloved bookstore in Uptown Waterloo is bearing the brunt of some holiday misfortune. Must-see moments of 2024: A superstar surprise, roundabout resident and CKCO studios come down From a WWE surprise for a Guelph superfan, to the recovery of a lost aviation artifact, to a reporter getting the story right from the goose's mouth, here are some of our can’t-miss moments from 2024. Barrie Several collisions reported along Highway 11 as driving conditions deteriorate Highway 11 was closed briefly in Oro-Medonte on Monday afternoon as driving conditions deteriorated, causing multiple collisions. Firearms seized after 'violent threats' made against secondary school: YRP Police say officers found several firearms during a search at a teen’s home after he allegedly made violent threats against a secondary school. Single-vehicle crash in Springwater Twp. One woman was taken to the hospital following a single-vehicle crash in Springwater Township. Winnipeg Manitoba government to make permanent cut to gas tax Manitobans can expect to see a permanent change at the gas pump as early as next week Snowmobile crash leaves 10-year-old dead: RCMP A 10-year-old boy is dead following a snowmobile crash near Rosebank, Man., on Sunday. Trump again calls to buy Greenland after eyeing Canada and the Panama Canal First it was Canada, then the Panama Canal. Now, Donald Trump again wants Greenland. The president-elect is renewing unsuccessful calls he made during his first term for the U.S. to buy Greenland from Denmark, adding to the list of allied countries with which he's picking fights even before taking office. Calgary Taxpayers Federation unveils its annual spending 'Naughty and Nice List' A media president and the Prime Minister have topped the Canadian Taxpayers Federation’s annual 'Taxpayer Naughty List' for 2024. Serious crash closes part of Highway 1 near Bassano, Alta. RCMP responded to a serious crash on Highway 1 near Bassano, Alta., on Monday morning. The collision occurred approximately two kilometres east of Highway 56. 2 Alberta men charged with sex crimes involving children in separate investigations Two registered sex offenders are facing charges after separate investigations in northern Alberta. Edmonton 'Serious safety issues': Edmonton building where security guard was killed evacuated An apartment building where a security guard was killed earlier this month is being evacuated. City of Edmonton to lift Phase 1 parking ban Monday evening The City of Edmonton will lift the Phase 1 parking ban on Monday at 5 p.m. 2 Alberta men charged with sex crimes involving children in separate investigations Two registered sex offenders are facing charges after separate investigations in northern Alberta. Regina Estevan police officer arrested following SIRT investigation An officer of the Estevan Police Service (EPS) is facing several charges following an investigation by the province’s police oversight agency. Heavy fog descends over Regina, most of Saskatchewan Dense fog is being reported across much of the province to begin the week of Christmas, according to Environment and Climate Change Canada (ECCC). Riders acquire quarterback Jake Maier in trade with Stampeders The Green and White finalized some Christmas shopping ahead of the holidays, acquiring quarterback Jake Maier in a trade with Calgary on Monday. Saskatoon 'There are lines': In year-end interview, NDP leader says Moe went too far in election campaign Saskatchewan’s two main political leaders had agreed before October's provincial election not to target the families of candidates during the campaign, says Opposition NDP Leader Carla Beck. Sask. RCMP on the scene of rollover on Highway 40 The Saskatchewan RCMP said Highway 40 was closed Monday afternoon following a rollover just west of Hafford, a village just under 100 kilometres northwest of Saskatoon. Saskatoon woman arrested following machete attack A 55-year-old woman was arrested following a stabbing with a machete early Monday morning. Vancouver Cleanup underway after rockslide derails train in B.C. No injuries were reported after a rockslide derailed a freight train, sending railcars into British Columbia's Fraser River, on Sunday night. Union for striking aviation fuel workers in Vancouver says aging pipeline poses risk A union representing striking aviation fuel workers in British Columbia is warning that diversion of the fuel to get around the industrial action could pose an environmental hazard. Chilliwack farmer facing multiple charges after crashing tractor into police vehicle A Chilliwack man has been charged with multiple criminal counts in connection to an incident involving a tractor being driven dangerously during a protest last year. Vancouver Island Cleanup underway after rockslide derails train in B.C. No injuries were reported after a rockslide derailed a freight train, sending railcars into British Columbia's Fraser River, on Sunday night. More than 280M trees planted in 2024 in B.C., focus on fire-damaged areas British Columbia's forests ministry says more than 280 million trees were planted in the province this year. Several storms in store for B.C.’s south coast over Christmas A series of storms are expected to bring heavy winds and wet weather to B.C’s south coast over the festive period. Kelowna Forfeited Hells Angels clubhouse in Kelowna, B.C., sold to the city A former Hells Angels clubhouse that was seized by the British Columbia government in 2023 after years of fighting in court has been sold to the City of Kelowna. Death of woman found in Kelowna's Waterfront Park in June deemed 'non-criminal in nature': RCMP Police in Kelowna say a death they began investigating back in June has now been confirmed as "non-criminal in nature." B.C. man sentenced for 'execution-style' murder of bystander in drug trade conflict A B.C. man convicted of the "intentional and ruthless killing of a bystander" while acting as an enforcer in the drug trade has been sentenced for a second time in the slaying. Stay Connected
A pair of teams vying to put a stamp on overachieving campaigns will meet as Georgia Tech squares off with Vanderbilt in the Birmingham Bowl on Friday in Birmingham, Ala. Georgia Tech (7-5) is appearing in back-to-back bowl games for the first time since an 18-year run from 1997-2014, and a win would give the Yellow Jackets consecutive bowl wins for the first time in 20 years. For a Georgia Tech program that endured a 14-32 stretch from 2019-22, this season has given Yellow Jacket fans a reason to believe a resurgence is near. After knocking off No. 10 Florida State in the season opener, Georgia Tech climbed into the AP Poll for the first time in nine years. Although it was a short stay in the rankings, head coach Brent Key's team piqued the nation's interest again in November, when it took down undefeated No. 4 Miami, 28-23. The Yellow Jackets had another chance to shake up the college football landscape against then-No. 7 Georgia, but blew a late 14-point lead en route to an eight-overtime defeat. Now with one more opportunity against the Southeastern Conference, Key thinks the bowl organizers nailed this one on the head. "We're excited to go over to Birmingham and play a really good opponent," Key said. "I think this is a really good matchup. When you look at bowl games, that's what you look for, the matchups. And I think they got this one right." Georgia Tech quarterback Haynes King's 1,910 passing yards and 22 total touchdowns (11 passing, 11 rushing) have steadied the offense throughout the year, but the Yellow Jackets will be without their leading receiver, Eric Singleton Jr., who entered the transfer portal after the regular season and signed with Auburn on Monday. Starting defensive lineman Romello Height also transferred, meaning a next-man-up mentality will be in order for Key's squad. "One person is not going to make a difference as far as rotational depth," Key said. "We're going to continue to coach the guys that are here, and prepare them not only for this game but for the rest of their careers here at Georgia Tech." Singleton paced Georgia Tech with 754 receiving yards to go along with four total touchdowns, while Height tallied 2 1/2 sacks and a pair of forced fumbles. It wouldn't have surprised many college football pundits had Vanderbilt missed the postseason for a sixth straight year. The Commodores (6-6) were predicted last by a wide margin in the SEC preseason poll coming off last year's winless conference slate. However, the program's historic season can now be punctuated with its first bowl win in 11 years, thanks to a shocking Oct. 5 victory over No. 1 Alabama, along with its first win all-time at Auburn. Led by head coach Clark Lea, the revamped Commodores see a similar program on Friday in Birmingham. "Georgia Tech is a team I've taken notes on as Brent has built that program up," Lea said. "What an incredible transformation they've had; so much respect for them. ... This is our 10th bowl game in 134 years, it's a chance for our first winning season since 2013. You're going to have two teams that play a physical brand of football, two head coaches that care deeply about the institutions we represent. "These are two teams that are going to fight for a win and I don't think it gets better than that." The Commodores are led by quarterback Diego Pavia, who had 2,133 passing yards and 17 touchdowns in the air, paired with 716 rushing yards and six scores on the ground. Pavia, a transfer from New Mexico State -- and New Mexico Military Institute at the juco level -- won a court ruling last week that granted him a seventh year of eligibility in 2025. --Field Level MediaNBA fines Minnesota guard Edwards $75,000 for outburstWednesday, December 25, 2024 Royal Caribbean has announced further cancellations of scheduled stops in San Juan, Puerto Rico, by its flagship cruise ship Symphony of the Seas. This comes as the capital city’s port continues to face extensive construction delays, leaving travelers disappointed and sparking growing frustration among cruisers. The cancellations affect itineraries for December 28, 2024, and January 12, 2025, as the pier remains unable to accommodate larger vessels. The Symphony of the Seas, one of the largest cruise ships in the world at 228,081 gross registered tons, was originally slated to visit San Juan as part of its Caribbean voyages. However, due to months of ongoing construction at the pier, Royal Caribbean has been forced to make significant changes to its planned itineraries, impacting passengers who were eagerly anticipating their stops in Puerto Rico. Affected travelers were notified of the itinerary changes via email. In these communications, Royal Caribbean cited construction delays as the primary reason for the disruption. The company expressed regret over the inconvenience and emphasized that they were working diligently to provide alternative destinations that would still deliver memorable experiences for their guests. For the December 28, 2024, sailing, passengers received notification of the itinerary change earlier this month. The revised schedule replaces the San Juan stop with alternate ports, though specific details on the substituted destinations vary depending on the itinerary. Similarly, the January 12, 2025, voyage will no longer include a stop in San Juan, with other Caribbean locations being added to the itinerary as replacements. Royal Caribbean’s email to cruisers highlighted the importance of maintaining a high-quality experience despite the changes. The company stated that the inability to dock in San Juan was beyond their control due to delays in the port’s redevelopment efforts. The email reassured passengers that every effort was being made to provide exciting alternatives, though it acknowledged the disappointment caused by missing the Puerto Rican capital. The ongoing construction at San Juan’s port has created a ripple effect across the cruise industry, particularly for larger ships in the Oasis class. These vessels, including Symphony of the Seas, require specific docking infrastructure due to their size and capacity. The construction project, initially expected to be completed earlier this year, has faced multiple setbacks, leaving the port authority unable to accommodate larger cruise ships. While San Juan remains a popular destination for Caribbean cruises, these delays have impacted its reputation as a reliable port of call. The city’s vibrant culture, historic landmarks, and local attractions make it a sought-after stop for cruise passengers. However, the inability to host some of the world’s largest ships has highlighted the importance of completing the construction project in a timely manner to restore confidence among cruise operators and travelers alike. News of the cancellations has been met with disappointment and frustration among passengers who had been looking forward to visiting San Juan. Many travelers took to social media to express their dissatisfaction with the itinerary changes, while others voiced concerns over the lack of a clear timeline for the pier’s completion. Royal Caribbean’s decision to remove San Juan from these itineraries reflects a broader trend of cruise lines prioritizing operational efficiency and guest satisfaction amid unforeseen challenges. While the company has emphasized its commitment to transparency and communication, the situation underscores the complexities of managing large-scale cruise operations in regions undergoing infrastructure upgrades. The ongoing delays in San Juan’s port construction have broader implications for Caribbean tourism. As one of the region’s most popular cruise destinations, Puerto Rico plays a vital role in attracting international travelers and supporting local economies. The inability to accommodate larger ships like the Symphony of the Seas not only impacts cruise operators but also affects local businesses that rely on the influx of tourists. Puerto Rico’s government and tourism officials have acknowledged the importance of resolving the construction delays and have pledged to expedite the completion of the pier project. However, with no clear timeline yet provided, stakeholders are left navigating the uncertainty of when the port will once again be fully operational. Royal Caribbean has reiterated its commitment to delivering exceptional experiences for its passengers, even in the face of unforeseen challenges. The company has assured affected travelers that they will receive updates on any further changes and that efforts are being made to minimize disruptions to their vacations. In addition to revising itineraries, Royal Caribbean has also taken steps to enhance onboard activities and entertainment options for guests. These measures aim to ensure that passengers continue to enjoy a world-class cruising experience despite the alterations to their travel plans. As construction continues at San Juan’s port, the focus remains on finding solutions that will allow larger cruise ships to dock in the capital city once again. For now, travelers and cruise operators alike will need to adapt to the ongoing disruptions while awaiting updates on the project’s progress. Royal Caribbean’s decision to cancel additional visits to San Juan serves as a reminder of the complexities involved in coordinating large-scale travel operations. While the situation has posed challenges, it also highlights the resilience of the travel industry and its ability to adapt to changing circumstances. In the meantime, cruisers are encouraged to stay informed about itinerary changes and to remain flexible as the cruise line works to provide memorable alternatives. The hope is that once the construction project is completed, San Juan will regain its status as a premier destination for Caribbean cruises, welcoming travelers from around the world to experience its rich culture and vibrant attractions.
MAGDEBURG, Germany — Mourners laid flowers near the scene of the deadly Christmas market attack on Monday while fears swirled that the rampage could deepen divisions in German society. The Johanniskirche, a church a short walk from the scene of the attack, became a central place of mourning since the suspect drove a car into the busy market on Friday evening, killing five people. A carpet of flowers covers the broad sidewalk in front of the church. Prosecutors said the number of injured rose to as many as 235 as more people have reported to hospitals and doctors, but it’s possible there was some double-counting. Authorities identified the suspect as a Saudi doctor who arrived in Germany in 2006 and received permanent residency. They say the man described himself as an ex-Muslim who was highly critical of Islam, and on social media expressed support for the far right. The interior minister of Saxony-Anhalt state, Tamara Zieschang, told lawmakers Monday that police contacted him in September 2023 and again in October this year, but didn’t comment publicly on why, German news agency dpa reported. Get local news delivered to your inbox!China's getting a big electric car battery swapping boost in 2025. Would that work across the globe?
Neuphoria Completes Re-domiciliation and Successor Listing on NasdaqWhat's New Wall Street rallied with a strong performance in a holiday-shortened trading session on Tuesday that was led by the technology sector. Why It Matters This seasonal rally, often referred to as the "Santa rally," has historically delivered average gains of 1.3 percent over the final five trading days of the year and the first two of the new year. Analysts say this period often sets a tone for January and the coming year. Despite some December losses that have pared back the year's gains, the stock market is poised to end 2024 on a high note. The S&P 500 remains up 26 percent so far this year and remains within striking distance of its all-time high achieved earlier this month. If the momentum holds, it will mark a banner year for U.S. equities with a record 57 new highs set by the S&P 500 alone. What To Know The S&P 500 climbed 0.8 percent, while the Dow Jones Industrial Average added 273 points, or 0.6 percent. The Nasdaq composite, often seen as a bellwether for tech, rose 1 percent. Semiconductor companies bolstered gains with Broadcom up 2.9 percent and Nvidia—one of the market's most influential players—gaining 0.8 percent. Super Micro Computer surged by 5.8 percent. Tesla emerged as one of the session's biggest winners, jumping 5.1 percent, while Amazon saw a 1.6 percent uptick. Other Sectors Not all sectors shared in the cheer, however. American Airlines edged down 0.1 percent following a brief nationwide grounding of its flights due to a technical glitch. Elsewhere, U.S. Steel rose 1.1 percent, reflecting investor confidence despite ongoing concerns about the potential sale of the company to Japan's Nippon Steel. A standout performer was NeueHealth, which soared nearly 69 percent after the healthcare company announced plans to go private in a deal valued at approximately $1.3 billion. On the bond market, Treasury yields inched higher with the yield on the 10-year note rising to 4.61 percent from 4.59 percent on Monday. What People Are Saying Michael Hartnett, chief investment strategist at BofA Global Research , previously noted that economic optimism, based on expectations for economic growth and other indicators, is now at its highest level since August 2021, another signal that sentiment might be overheated. What Happens Next Wall Street is now gearing up for a short break as markets close early Tuesday and remain shut Wednesday for Christmas. Investors, however, have their eyes on upcoming economic reports, including Thursday's update on unemployment benefits. This article includes reporting from The Associated Press.
Technology stocks led a broad rally on Wall Street Tuesday during a holiday-shortened trading session ahead of Christmas. The S&P 500 rose 1.1% for its third-straight gain. The Dow Jones Industrial Average added 0.9%, and the tech-heavy Nasdaq composite climbed 1.3%. While Big Tech companies, including Apple, Amazon and chip company Broadcom helped push the market higher, the gains were widespread. Advancers outnumbered decliners by more than 3-to-1 on the New York Stock Exchange. Broadcom rose 3.2%, Apple gained 1.1% and Amazon closed 1.8% higher. Super Micro Computer climbed 6%. Tesla jumped 7.4% for the biggest gains among S&P 500 stocks. American Airlines shook off an early loss and ended with a 0.6% gain after the airline briefly grounded flights nationwide due to a technical issue. Elsewhere in the market, U.S. Steel rose 1.9% a day after an influential government panel failed to reach consensus on the possible national security risks of the nearly $15 billion proposed sale to Nippon Steel of Japan. NeueHealth surged 74.9% after the health care company agreed to be taken private in a deal valued at roughly $1.3 billion. All told, the S&P 500 rose 65.97 points to 6,040.04. The Dow added 390.08 points to 43,297.03, and the Nasdaq rose 266.24 points to 20,031.13. Treasury yields held steady in the bond market. The yield on the 10-year Treasury was little changed at 4.59%. European markets closed mostly higher. Markets in Asia mostly gained ground. Tuesday’s U.S. market rally comes as the stock market enters what’s historically been a very cheerful season. The last five trading days of each year, plus the first two in the new year, have brought an average gain of 1.3% since 1950. The so-called “Santa rally” also correlates closely with positive returns in January and the upcoming year. So far this month, the U.S. stock market has lost some of its gains since President-elect Donald Trump’s win on Election Day, which raised hopes for faster economic growth and more lax regulations that would boost corporate profits. Worries have risen that Trump’s preference for tariffs and other policies could lead to higher inflation , a bigger U.S. government debt and difficulties for global trade. Even so, the stock market remains on pace to deliver strong returns for 2024. The benchmark S&P 500 is up 26.6% so far this year and remains within roughly 1% of the all-time high it set earlier this month — its latest of 57 record highs this year. U.S. markets will be closed Wednesday for Christmas. Wall Street has several economic reports to look forward to this week, including a weekly update on unemployment benefits on Thursday.OTTAWA — Alberta’s Public Safety Minister Mike Ellis said Friday that political paralysis in Ottawa is fuelling growing violence in communities in his province and beyond. “There’s a leadership gap in the federal government we’re watching play out in real time,” said Ellis, also Alberta’s deputy premier, in a year-end interview with the National Post. Ellis took aim at the Liberal minority government’s criminal justice policies , such as a 2019 law that made it easier for some suspects to be released from custody on bail. (Parts of the law were reversed in a late-2023 update .) All hopes for the passage of tougher federal criminal laws were dashed in September, when an impasse over documents related to a failed green technology fund effectively derailed the fall sitting of the House of Commons, which ended last week. Ellis said that the federal filibustering has real-world consequences. “What we have now is violent repeat offenders (who) are going into the streets and wreaking havoc within our communities,” said Ellis, an ex-police officer. Ellis said the cold-blooded shooting death of 20-year-old Edmonton security guard Harshandeep Singh earlier this month, allegedly at the hands of a repeat violent offender granted a conditional release just last year, was a tragic reminder of the lawlessness created by federal inaction. “This has been consistent with stories I often hear throughout Alberta and, quite frankly, throughout Canada,” said Ellis. “We have violent repeat offenders that are being released onto the streets and these are the sort of things they do when you have these sorts of soft on crime policies in place. They just don’t work.” Ellis said that he hasn’t met with Singh’s family yet but would “welcome and look forward to the opportunity” to do so. Ellis also said that he’s keeping an eye out to 2032, when the RCMP’s community policing contract with Alberta and 11 other provincial and territorial jurisdictions is set to expire. “They’ve been doing signal check after signal check that they’re looking at stepping away from contract policing,” said Ellis, pointing to multiple statements that RCMP Commissioner Mike Duheme has made about beefing up the agency’s national security-related powers. Liberal MP David McGuinty, named federal public safety minister in Friday’s cabinet shakeup , has previously stated that the RCMP should consider ending contract policing so it can direct more resources to issues of national importance. Prior to his cabinet appointment, McGuinty led a parliamentary study of the RCMP’s federal policing mandate, which issued a report on the matter in late 2023. In the meantime, Ellis says he is pursuing a two-track strategy of shoring up the province-led Alberta sheriffs and giving local communities the power to choose if the RCMP is right for their needs. “I’m trying to make sure that all options are on the table,” said Ellis. “I have some communities that have indicated to me that they want to continue contracting with the RCMP (and) others indicate that they do not wish to continue... that’s a decision we need to respect either way.” Ellis said that the question of a transition from the RCMP to a provincial police service was unlikely to be put to a province-wide referendum, which his government has promised for a changeover to a provincial pension plan . Looking ahead to 2025, Ellis said that he was excited to continue building out self-administered policing services in Alberta’s First Nations communities . “Time and time again, I keep hearing complaints about how unsafe people feel in our First Nations communities with the lack of police presence there,” said Ellis. “This is why I’m doing what I can to help create self-administered policing services.” Ellis was on hand for an April 2023 signing ceremony that made southern Alberta’s Siksika Nation Canada’s first Indigenous community in more than a decade to transition to self-administered policing. He said that the Enoch Cree Nation, near Edmonton, has since expressed interest in following suit. Ellis said that self-administered policing has vast potential to create leadership opportunities for young people who live in Indigenous communities. “Not everybody can be a chief or councillor,” said Ellis. “But as we continue to roll out self-administered policing, young people who want to give back can be constables, or serve their communities in any number of capacities.” “That’s something that’s part of the paradigm shift that we’re doing here in Alberta.” National Post rmohamed@postmedia.com Get more deep-dive National Post political coverage and analysis in your inbox with the Political Hack newsletter, where Ottawa bureau chief Stuart Thomson and political analyst Tasha Kheiriddin get at what’s really going on behind the scenes on Parliament Hill every Wednesday and Friday, exclusively for subscribers. Sign up here . Our website is the place for the latest breaking news, exclusive scoops, longreads and provocative commentary. Please bookmark nationalpost.com and sign up for our daily newsletter, Posted, here .B.C. man charged over tractor crash with police during 2023 anti-SOGI protest
Former Swim Ireland chief accused of coercive control and multiple assaults of wifeJets deliver payback to Leafs, claim NHL's top spot before Christmas breakTechnology stocks led a broad rally on Wall Street Tuesday during a holiday-shortened trading session ahead of Christmas. The S&P 500 rose 1.1% for its third-straight gain. The Dow Jones Industrial Average added 0.9%, and the tech-heavy Nasdaq composite climbed 1.3%. While Big Tech companies, including Apple, Amazon and chip company Broadcom helped push the market higher, the gains were widespread. Advancers outnumbered decliners by more than 3-to-1 on the New York Stock Exchange. Broadcom rose 3.2%, Apple gained 1.1% and Amazon closed 1.8% higher. Super Micro Computer climbed 6%. Tesla jumped 7.4% for the biggest gains among S&P 500 stocks. American Airlines shook off an early loss and ended with a 0.6% gain after the airline briefly grounded flights nationwide due to a technical issue. Elsewhere in the market, U.S. Steel rose 1.9% a day after an influential government panel failed to reach consensus on the possible national security risks of the nearly $15 billion proposed sale to Nippon Steel of Japan. NeueHealth surged 74.9% after the health care company agreed to be taken private in a deal valued at roughly $1.3 billion. All told, the S&P 500 rose 65.97 points to 6,040.04. The Dow added 390.08 points to 43,297.03, and the Nasdaq rose 266.24 points to 20,031.13. Treasury yields held steady in the bond market. The yield on the 10-year Treasury was little changed at 4.59%. European markets closed mostly higher. Markets in Asia mostly gained ground. Tuesday’s U.S. market rally comes as the stock market enters what’s historically been a very cheerful season. The last five trading days of each year, plus the first two in the new year, have brought an average gain of 1.3% since 1950. The so-called “Santa rally” also correlates closely with positive returns in January and the upcoming year. So far this month, the U.S. stock market has lost some of its gains since President-elect Donald Trump’s win on Election Day, which raised hopes for faster economic growth and more lax regulations that would boost corporate profits. Worries have risen that Trump’s preference for tariffs and other policies could lead to higher inflation , a bigger U.S. government debt and difficulties for global trade. Even so, the stock market remains on pace to deliver strong returns for 2024. The benchmark S&P 500 is up 26.6% so far this year and remains within roughly 1% of the all-time high it set earlier this month — its latest of 57 record highs this year. U.S. markets will be closed Wednesday for Christmas. Wall Street has several economic reports to look forward to this week, including a weekly update on unemployment benefits on Thursday.
By CHRIS MEGERIAN and COLLEEN LONG WASHINGTON (AP) — In the two weeks since Donald Trump won the presidency, he’s tried to demonstrate his dominance by naming loyalists for top administration positions, even though many lack expertise and some face sexual misconduct accusations. It often seems like he’s daring Congress to oppose his decisions. But on Thursday, Trump’s attempt to act with impunity showed a crack as Matt Gaetz , his choice for attorney general, withdrew from consideration. Trump had named Gaetz, a Florida congressman, to be the country’s top law enforcement official even though he was widely disliked by his colleagues, has little legal experience and was accused of having sex with an underage girl, an allegation he denied. After being plagued by investigations during his first presidency, Trump wanted a devoted ally in charge of the Justice Department during his second. However, it was never obvious that Gaetz could win enough support from lawmakers to get confirmed as attorney general. Trump chose for a replacement Pam Bondi, a former Florida attorney general who defended him during his first impeachment trial and supported his false claims of voter fraud. Now the question is whether Gaetz was uniquely unpalatable, or if Trump’s other picks might exceed his party’s willingness to overlook concerns that would have sunk nominees in a prior political era. The next test will likely be Pete Hegseth, who Trump wants to lead the Pentagon despite an allegation of sexual assault that he’s denied. So far, Republicans are rallying around Hegseth , an Army veteran and former Fox News host. Sen. Thom Tillis, a North Carolina Republican who serves on the Senate Judiciary Committee, said the controversy over Gaetz would have little bearing on Trump’s other choices. He said they would be considered “one at a time.” Sen. Richard Blumenthal, a Connecticut Democrat, suggested otherwise, claiming “the dominoes are falling.” “The drip drip of evidence and truth is going to eventually doom some others,” he said. Trump’s election victory was a sign that there may not be many red lines left in American politics. He won the presidential race despite authoritarian, racist and misogynist rhetoric, not to mention years of lies about election fraud and his role in sparking the Jan. 6, 2021, attack on the U.S. Capitol. He was also criminally convicted of falsifying business records to pay hush money, and he was found liable for sexual abuse in a civil case. Empowered by voters who looked past his misconduct and saw him as a powerful agent of change, Trump has shown no deference to Washington norms while working to fill his second administration . The transition team hasn’t pursued federal background checks for Trump’s personnel choices. While some of his selections have extensive experience in the areas they’ve been chosen to lead, others are personal friends and Fox News personalities who have impressed and flattered Trump over the years. Several have faced allegations involving sexual misconduct . Hegseth is facing the most scrutiny after Gaetz. Once Trump announced Hegseth as his nominee for Pentagon chief, allegations emerged that he sexually assaulted a woman in California in 2017. The woman said he took her phone, blocked the door to the hotel room and refused to let her leave, according to a police report made public this week. Hegseth told police at the time that the encounter had been consensual and denied any wrongdoing, the report said. However, he paid the woman a confidential settlement in 2023. Hegseth’s lawyer said the payment was made to head off the threat of a baseless lawsuit. Trump’s choice for secretary of health and human Services, Robert F. Kennedy Jr., has faced allegations of misconduct too. A woman who babysat for him and his second wife told Vanity Fair magazine that Kennedy groped her in the late 1990s, when she was 23. Kennedy did not deny the allegation and texted an apology to the woman after the article was published. That isn’t the only hurdle for Kennedy; he’s spent years spreading misinformation and conspiracy theories about vaccines, raising fears about making him a top health official in the new administration. Linda McMahon, chosen by Trump to be education secretary, is fighting a lawsuit connected to her former company, World Wrestling Entertainment. She’s accused of knowingly enabling sexual exploitation of children by an employee as early as the 1980s, and she denies the allegations. Tulsi Gabbard is another person who could face a difficult confirmation battle, but for very different reasons. The former Democratic representative from Hawaii has been a vocal Trump ally, and he chose her to be national intelligence director. But there’s grave concern by lawmakers and national security officials over Gabbard’s history of echoing Russian propaganda. Critics said she would endanger relationships with U.S. allies. Gaetz was investigated by federal law enforcement for sex trafficking, but the case was closed without charges and Republicans have blocked the release of a related report from the House Ethics Committee. However, some allegations leaked out, including that Gaetz paid women for sex. One of the women testified to the committee that she saw Gaetz having sex with a 17-year-old girl, according to a lawyer for the woman. As Gaetz met with senators this week, it became clear that he would face stubborn resistance from lawmakers who were concerned about his behavior and believed he was unqualified to run the Justice Department. “While the momentum was strong, it is clear that my confirmation was unfairly becoming a distraction,” Gaetz wrote on social media when announcing his withdrawal. Sen. Mike Braun, an Indiana Republican, said he believed there were four to six members of the caucus who would have voted against Gaetz, likely dooming his nomination, and “the math got too hard.” He said some of the issues and allegations around Gaetz were “maybe beyond the pale.” “I think there were just too many things, it was like a leaky dike, and you know, it broke,” Braun said. Trump thanked Gaetz in a post on Truth Social, his social media website, without addressing the substance of the allegations against him. “He was doing very well but, at the same time, did not want to be a distraction for the Administration, for which he has much respect,” Trump wrote. Associated Press writers Mary Clare Jalonick, Stephen Groves and Lisa Macaro contributed from Washington. Jill Colvin in New York and Adriana Gomez Licon in Fort Lauderdale, Florida, also contributed.Oklahoma State's 3-point accuracy sends Miami to defeat
NFL NOTES
Home Alone’s ‘pigeon lady’ looks worlds away from character 32 years after iconic Christmas movieVale Sal Rees, women's football pioneer and 'unheralded warrior'
More funds to support steel workers and businesses