
President Bola Tinubu has been called upon to confer a National Honours Award on High Chief Government Ekpemupolo, a.k.a Tompolo, Chairman of Tantita Security Services Limited over his unwavering commitment and dedication to the war against crude oil theft in the Niger Delta region. This call was made by HRM Monday Obukowho Whiskey, Udurhie 1, Ovie of Idjerhe Kingdom in his palace on Sunday in Idjerhe, Ethiope West Local Government Area of Delta State, he said that the attainment of 1.8million barrels per day recently declared by the Nigerian National Petroleum Company Limited, NNPCL was possible because of Tompolo’s collaborative efforts. According to HRM Whiskey, “Tompolo needs commendation. In fact, he needs a National award. Nothing stops the President from inviting him to Abuja and confering on him a National Award, because he has done what Napoleon could not do. “First and foremost, let me especially congratulate the staff and management of Tantita Security Services Nigeria Limited(TSSNL )led by High Chief Government Ekpemupolo for the battle against oil theft. “From every available facts now, it is now very clear that only the section being handled by Tompolo and his Tantita group are performing exceedingly well. So we can rightly say that Tompolo is not only protecting Critical National Assets but has gone extra mile to take the highest risk. “The situation today is that Tompolo is singlehandedly fighting the oil cabals, the oil cabals that were siphoning the country oil. And if we look at it very critically, there are three major things that Tompolo’s Tantita is achieving today. “One, the firm is working very hard to increase oil and gas production output to the Nigerian government. Before this job was given to Tantita, Nigerian production was less than 1m barrels per day and to bring on board extra 800,000 barrels and still working hard to get it to 2 million barrels per day. “There are serious agencies saddled with the responsibility of protecting this installations. What did they do? Rather, they are conspiring with the oil thieves, and they have started doing it as business. “Secondly, Tompolo is helping to restore our environment that has been criminally degraded from its natural state that today is supporting aquatic life and the growth of this environment, especially cleaner water. “If you are used to this area before Tantita was given this job, you barely can see the water content, because everything is covered in black oil. “But today, aquatic live is being restored and aquatic animals are returning to their natural habitat as a result of the hard work of an individual. An individual took it upon himself. Other people were given the same job. What have they done? “Thirdly, this Tantita Security Project is creating employment opportunities to youths in the entire Niger Delta area and it is exposing our youths to the deployment of high tech facilities, because they are not using manual technologies anymore. “I want to appeal to the federal government to increase and expand this project. Because if you look critically, it is only the areas where Tantita is working that you have this very noble achievement. “So there is no reason why I should not advocate for the expansion of the project so that we can get more able bodied youths from the streets, they need to work. The federal government should, as a matter of urgency, begin to fund Tantita very regularly, because, you know, an idle mind is the devil’s workshop. “Now that Tompolo has used his native sagacity to bring together most dreaded youths in the region to be part of this program, there is no reason why salaries should not be regular. “Increase the workforce, regularize the workers’ salaries, the security contract has enhanced oil production and sustained environmental protection of the Niger Delta people, Tompolo deserve a national award for the feat he has achieved so far.”
( MENAFN - Kuwait News Agency (KUNA)) BRUSSELS, Dec 24 (KUNA) -- The European Union expressed on Tuesday its deep concern over the violence that occurred following the elections in Mozambique, expressing regret for the "considerable loss of life" that occurred so far. In a statement, the EU called on all parties to "maintain restraint and refrain from any actions that could exacerbate tensions," and urged "accountability and justice to address human rights violations." The statement noted that the EU observation mission, deployed at the invitation of Mozambican authorities to monitor the electoral process, observed "irregularities during the vote counting process and unjustified alterations of election results." The EU reiterated its readiness to "support Mozambique in electoral system reform," considering that "the upcoming recommendations of the EU Election Observation Mission will be important in this regard." The EU also called on the newly elected president and the new administration to "engage quickly in a constructive dialogue with the opposition and relevant civil society organizations to restore the social contract with the people and strengthen democratic values and human rights." The Constitutional Council announced on Monday that the ruling Mozambique Liberation Front (FRELIMO) party won the national elections held on 9 October but the opposition has questioned the legitimacy of the results, leading to protests that resulted in dozens of deaths in the resource-rich country in southeastern Africa. (end) arn MENAFN24122024000071011013ID1109028480 Legal Disclaimer: MENAFN provides the information “as is” without warranty of any kind. We do not accept any responsibility or liability for the accuracy, content, images, videos, licenses, completeness, legality, or reliability of the information contained in this article. If you have any complaints or copyright issues related to this article, kindly contact the provider above.
Popular actor-director Kabir Sadanand , known for featuring in shows like Kuch Kehti Hai Khamoshiyaan, Family No.1 , Shagun, and Kumkum – Ek Pyara Sa Bandhan among others is looking forward to celebrating Christmas Eve with his daughter Kahineer. He said, "To mark the celebrations, Me and my daughter have been out shopping for Christmas, putting up the Christmas tree, decorating the house, wrapping gifts and now attempting to bake our first cake together. I feel the festival reminds us of the importance of love and unity. It encourages us to set aside differences and celebrate the gift of togetherness. The festival’s charm lies in its ability to spread joy and hope, making it a truly magical and meaningful day for everyone." He continued, "Christmas is especially magical because of Santa Claus , the legendary figure believed to bring gifts to well-behaved kids. The tradition of hanging stockings and waiting for Santa adds to the excitement of the season. Waking up on Christmas morning to find presents under the tree is a cherished moment for every child. It's a festival of hope and making memories. Here is wishing everyone a happy Christmas and new year from all of us as we look forward to some new challenges in the year ahead." As the New Year's is around the actor reflects back on his journey in 2024. He shared, "2024 has also been a year with its anxious moments too as my closest friend and brother from another mother Navtez Dadwal, undertook a solo journey across the world in his car from California to India. I feel amazed at his fantastic journey filled with courage and stumbling blocks. I also went to the Wagah border to receive him. I am anxiously looking forward to him reaching India to celebrate Christmas with us." He added, "The year has also been a year of additions as our handsome new husky Mr. Nixon (pet) joins the family and we are looking forward to the festive season and the spirit of Christmas. For me, it’s not just a festival but a mood, a spirit, a vibe which is empowering." Kabir is also known for directing films like ‘Fugly” and ‘Tum Milo Toh Sahi’.
The AP Top 25 men’s college basketball poll is back every week throughout the season! Get the poll delivered straight to your inbox with AP Top 25 Poll Alerts. Sign up here . ST. THOMAS, Virgin Islands (AP) — Johnny Kinziger scored 21 points including two free throws with five seconds left to lead Illinois State to an 84-83 win over UAB on Saturday. Kinziger shot 8 of 12 from the field, including 2 for 5 from 3-point range, and went 3 for 3 from the line for the Redbirds (4-2). Chase Walker scored 16 points and added eight rebounds. Ty Pence shot 3 for 7 (1 for 4 from 3-point range) and 3 of 3 from the free-throw line to finish with 10 points. Alejandro finished with 19 points for the Blazers (3-4). UAB also got 18 points from Efrem Johnson. Yaxel Lendeborg also had 14 points and seven assists. ___ The Associated Press created this story using technology provided by Data Skrive and data from Sportradar .‘Google Maps can be...’: 3 dead as car following ‘misleading navigation’ falls off incomplete bridge; netizens react
1. Self-heating soothing foot masks made with Epsom salts, lavender, and peppermint perfect for anyone whose recent step count is "too many." Now instead of dealing with aching feet all night, you can get ahead of the situation with some ~self-care~. Check out a TikTok of the foot masks in action. I'm a long-ish distance runner and these were certainly an interesting experience for my feet! You slide them on and after a few minutes feel a tingling, mildly burning (in a good way) sensation. It doesn't quite numb your feet, but it relaxes them. I kept them on for 30 minutes and then toweled my feet off, and the tingling sensation slowly faded over the next 30 minutes. After that my feet felt very refreshed and relaxed at a time of day when they're usually aching from all the miles I put in. The whole thing was a mess-free, easy process, and I will definitely keep them on hand for longer run days! Promising review: "Very soothing. My husband and l used these on our European vacation and they definitely felt good on our feet!" — KS2018 Get a set of three pairs from Amazon for $11.97 . 2. A pair of ridiculously comfortable pull-on Levi's jeans for anyone who wants a go-to basic that'll work with just about any T-shirt in your closet. These are so comfy and easy to put on that they'll will make you want to throw your regular jeans out the window. Promising review : "These jeggings are great! They’re super cute, soft, and fit really well. I didn’t realize they were going to be 'waist cinching' or whatever (didn’t read the description as I just saw them on TikTok and ordered), so they are right and kind of difficult to get on, but once I got them on, they were snug and actually really comfortable! Probably going to order another pair!" — Amazon Customer Psst — if you have Amazon Prime Wardrobe , you can try this piece out before you buy it! Get it from Amazon for $21.11+ (available in sizes 2–28, three inseams, and 19 colors). 3. Catrice "Instant Awake" Under Eye Brightener , which became the internet's holy grail for concealing and brightening dark circles under your eyes so fast that everyone's old concealers are doing double takes. This lightweight, color-adapting formula is designed for truly ~invisible~ coverage that makes a drastic difference. The color adaptive formula is designed so one of two shades will work on any skin tone. Promising review: "Took years off my eyes! This product is so reasonably priced. I came across a TikTok promoting this and decided to take a chance since the price was super reasonable. My eyes looked brighter in a good way, and the concealer worked so well that I felt I looked younger. I got compliments from friends asking what I did differently with my makeup. I recommend it." — Monica T. Get it from Amazon for $6 (available in two shades). 4. A memory foam cushion designed to relieve pressure on your back, butt, and tailbone so you don't have to suffer through long work days and commutes. Now you'll just have to convince yourself to actually get *off* of this cushion to get on with your day. Comfilife is a small business that specializes in comfort-based personal care products. Promising review: "Life-changing on a long trip! My partner wanted us to drive from Colorado to California. I wanted to fly because I had a fall, and half of my body was in pain. He talked me into it, so I purchased this pillow for the car ride. What a game-changer! It helped so much with the pain, and I would recommend it for anyone in the car !" — Nadia Get it from Amazon for $29.95+ (available in three colors). 5. A knee stabilizer band for knee pain relief both in the short term *and* long term, whether you get it from running, hiking, team sports, or jumping up and down every time you hear a Bruno Mars song start playing at a wedding reception. Promising review: "I have chronic pain. First in my low back, then my neck, now my right foot and both knees. I’ve tried everything to try to support my knees. Those one-size-fits-all knee braces that cover the whole knee, those knee sleeves that cover the whole knee, a patella brace with a strap for the thigh and just below the knees with a padding that covered the back of my knee. Nothing worked AND was comfortable. They all shifted and chafed. About to give up I tried this. It fit comfortably under my jeans, it doesn’t shift around. I can wear it all day, I can go up and down stairs without pain, and I’ve even noticed improvement in my lower back as well. I’m very pleased!" — Angela Get a set of two from Amazon for $9.99+ (available in seven colors). 6. A weighted eye mask that's basically like a weighted blanket for your human eyes, designed to decrease stress and encourage ~deep sleep~. They also feature a 3D contour, so they're hollowed out in the middle and won't rest right on top of your eyes. Promising review : "Love these . These are soft and very comfortable, and they seriously black out every bit of ligh t. I love them. I would highly recommend. I’ll probably never sleep without them again." — AJ Get a pack of two from Amazon for $7.99 (available in six sets). 7. A set of "wine wands" to remove sulfates and histamines from your beloved cheap Pinots in as little as three minutes, basically making "not getting a hangover" your new superpower. Read more about sulfite allergies and wine at Cleveland Clinic . PureWine is a small business that specializes in wine accessories. Promising review: "What a difference these have made in my life. With my allergies, it was impossible to enjoy a glass or two of wine without nasty side effects: stuffy nose, red face, and headaches. Now, I can have a glass of wine and not have to dart to a package of antihistamines! Makes a great gift. Even thinking of splitting a box into stocking stuffers. Each wand is individually wrapped. Have purchased these several times and will continue to do so." — KellyH Get a set of three from Amazon for $11.99 . 8. A bottle of sulfate-free biotin shampoo that thousands of reviewers swear by for helping restore their hair and promote healthy hair growth over time. It also includes nourishing ingredients like rosemary oil, zinc, and coconut oil to help moisturize locks and give them a fuller, more volumized look. Read more about how biotin shampoo could help with the fullness of hair at Cleveland Clinic . Maple Holistics is a small business that specializes in beauty products with all-natural ingredients. Check out a TikTok of the biotin shampoo in action. Promising review: "I love this shampoo! I had gastric sleeve surgery, and my hair was very, very thin. I started taking biotin and switched to biotin shampoo, as recommended by my doctor. It doesn’t make your hair grow by washing it, but it makes your hair and roots stronger. And it worked. After using the whole bottle, my hair was stronger. I had a lot of new growth that was sticking around (the previous new growth fell out early on), and my hair was getting thicker. Eight months later, my hair is back to normal. It's longer and thicker than ever." — Diane J. Huff Get it from Amazon for $12.95 . 9. Death Wish Instant Coffee Packets so downright (dare I say, DANGEROUSLY) delicious that even the biggest coffee snobs you know might trade in their precious pour-overs. That is, if they can handle the 300mg of caffeine per cup 👀. Check out a TikTok of the Deathwish Instant Coffee in action. (Also I read at least one review of someone PUTTING THIS IN THEIR MORNING SMOOTHIE , some of you are WILD.) Death Wish Coffee is a small business that specializes in coffee pods, grounds, whole beans, and more. Promising review : "So let me start by saying that this coffee is delicious and works if you’re someone like me who wants to stay awake. I work night shifts at a hospital, and in the mornings, when I get home, I’m quite tired and sleepy. I made myself a cup of coffee and waited for it to work. Now let me tell y’all!!! This coffee kept me awake for hours!! BOY, WAS I WOWED INDEED ... best believe I went ahead and ordered three more boxes. This is now my to-go coffee if I need a BOOST!!!!!! If you like coffee and want to stay awake, then BUY THIS COFFEE!!! I’m happy I no longer have to take naps to get re-energized." — nancy Get a pack of eight from Amazon for $10.99 . 10. No Worries: A Guided Journal, a popular self-guided journal designed to help with managing anxiety, stress, and the general "adkfjgaldkjfgalkj" in your brain. Each day has a similar set of prompts for 12 undated weeks to help you reflect on your thought patterns and sources of anxiety, and gradually find self-care practices and management strategies that suit you best. Promising review: "I’ve never been a journal or diary person, but I needed an outlet for my anxiety and stress . Each day has the same two-page spread that prompts you to think about your day, how you felt, and why you felt that way. There isn’t really any inspiration or advice, just open lines for your thoughts without it being an intimidating blank page. This journal has already helped me see patterns in my thoughts/emotions, and I feel better overall. I would recommend this journal to anyone." — Kari Madsen Get it from Amazon for $9.95 . 11. And a stress relief flower coloring book for adults so instead of trying to outrun your problems, you can out- color them, and have a bunch of darling pieces of art to show for it. Psst — you can pick up a cult-fave colored pencil set on Amazon for $9.99! Promising review: "Great stress reliever. Stimulates my creativity. I have taken pictures of what I colored and have made it my wallpaper for my cellphone. Very glad I made this purchase." — Dawn62 Get it from Amazon for $6.65 . 12. A blissfully cooling silk pillowcase that will feel like heaven on your skin and your hair — in fact, a lot of reviewers swear by silk for preventing acne, and for preventing hair tangling and breakage during the night. Promising review: "Makeup artist and esthetician in training here! I adore this pillow. I was searching high and low for a good quality, affordable, and REAL silk pillow. After months of research online for the best option, I chose this pillow. It’s 100% real mulberry silk on both sides, has a hidden zipper, and it doesn’t slide around!!! It’s not only helped my hair not tangle, but the acne that I normally get on my cheeks from being a side sleeper has diminished almost completely (due to the anti-microbacterial properties of mulberry silk). Also I’ve noticed my skin looking ever so slightly plumper and more hydrated. I t also stays cool through the night." — J. Thompson Get it from Amazon for $28.99+ (available in three sizes and nine colors). 13. An earwax removal kit , so you don't have to wait until your yearly physical for your doctor to be like "um WHOA" and fix it for you. This is quicker, easier, and will be a huge relief for those of us waxy individuals who sometimes wake up in the morning with an ear so fully clogged-up that it feels like you're underwater. Y'all, this stuff is no joke — you can check out the earwax removal kit customer reviews to see the GOBS it is taking outta people's canals. Promising review: "My right ear has been plugged up for months. I squirted warm water in there, peroxide, tried various ear scraper tools, then just gave up. A month or so later, I saw this product at a local CVS, and gave it a try. Laid on couch with several drops in my ear for a half hour. I could hear weird fizzing noises. Then I flushed warm water in my ear with the included soft bulb syringe, and out came the culprit. Had to have been deep in there." — fixitforgood Get it from Amazon for $8.12. 14. A pair of compression gloves designed to help alleviate pain from carpal tunnel and arthritis, so you can type at your keyboard without an internal monologue of "ow OW ow owwwww" for the majority of your workday. Comfy Brace is a small business that specializes in pain-relieving compression products. Promising review : "I love these gloves. I’m actually wearing them right now. I have a degree in computer science, which means that I’m constantly using my hands to code and mess around on computers. I use a computer at home and at work. By the end of the day, my hands are sore, and they hurt. These gloves work miracles. Before bed, I put these on, and I wear them all night . I get a good night's sleep when I wear them and I can tell when I forget to put them on because I sleep awful. I also like how easy it is to wash them. " — BritMcConnell Get a pair from Amazon for $9.97 (available in four sizes). 15. Plus a compression foot sleeve to help manage heel pain and plantar fasciitis that you can sneakily wear right under your socks. The compression is so effective that even reviewers with chronic pain swear by them! Promising review: "I've had plantar fasciitis for two years now on and off. I work out a lot. I've had temporary relief from steroid injections, night splints and physical therapy but it always acts up when I run. I tried these, and they make it so bearable to work out and run again. They are tight so take some getting use to but I have I would say 85% relief running with these on now after. Definitely recommend for plantar fasciitis people." — Sam Get a pair from Amazon for $14.95+ (available in four sizes and 11 colors). 16. A roll-on migraine stick made with peppermint, spearmint, and lavender oils to help you soothe away headaches, which frankly have a lot of audacity interrupting your day. Basic Vigor is a US-based small business specializing in all-natural migraine relief products. Read more about how stress management can help with migraine prevention at Mayo Clinic , and read more about aromatherapy and stress and tension at Johns Hopkins . Promising review: "I’ve had migraines all my life — I’m 31 now. I’ve been on all kinds of prescriptions that work, but make me so sleepy... I’ve been using this stick for one week now, and it’s amazing! I rubbed it on at the first hint of a headache/migraine and it takes care of it fast. I haven’t taken a prescription migraine since I started using it. " — Amanda Braswell Read BuzzFeed's review of the migraine stick for more deets! Get it from Amazon for $12.95 . 17. Or a migraine relief beanie for when your brain decides it's going to rattle against your skull at the least convenient time possible. This gets icy *and* hot depending on what kind of relief you're looking for, and double as a sleep mask so you can block out harsh light or try to get some shut-eye for further relief. IceBeanie is a small business that specializes in cold therapy products. Promising review: "I don’t usually write reviews but this thing is literally a game changer. Amazing quality, so comfortable to wear, and it really helps me to relax and also when I have a headache. This is top shelf. I am so happy with my purchase!" — Bonnie Boughton Get it from Amazon for $39.99 . 18. A blister-preventing balm that basically magics an extra layer between your skin and your shoe, so you can trek through the airport or go on all your hikes or long walks around new cities without worrying about getting big ole blisters on your feet without a bandage in sight. BodyGlide is a small business that specializes in chafe-preventing personal care products. Promising review: "Wow. I took this on vacation, during which we walked about 20,000 steps daily. And, of course, my shoes begin to rub against parts of my feet, terribly. But I smeared this on, and it was amazing . I did have to reapply a few times a day, in public, but I highly recommend this!! I used it on my toes, ankle area, etc., and my feet felt great (normal)." — Y. Get it from Amazon for $8.99 (available in multipacks). 19. A weekly pill organizer designed with push-through silicone lids to easily organize your pills at the beginning of the week, meaning you don't have to spend a bunch of time rooting through pill boxes and trying to remember the timing of them each morning. Sagely is a family-owned small business founded by husband-and-wife team Ellie Glazer and Ivor Miskulin, who spent three years designing the ideal, stress-free pill storage solution. The silicone lids are super secure, but also designed for gentle and easy opening and closing to account for users with dexterity issues. Promising review : "Love this thing!!! I'm only 30 and didn't want an old lady pill box... and this one was modern and cool. The little slots to push in pills is fantastic and the containers are very large. It keeps my huge vitamin pills on either side and could fit over 10 large ones if needed . Love this thing. Worth the price and looks like it'll last forever. I do wish the magnets were stronger. They just keep them in place but will slide off if bumped. I assume this is helpful for people with arthritis. It's an easy fix. I take down one days worth of pills, set it on my counter and now I'm not too lazy to take my pills!" — Chicken McNugget Get it from Amazon for $34.99 . 20. A guided visual "breathing partner" you can use for meditation and calm to shift your mindset. This is designed to guide you through either the popular 4/7/8 or 5/5 "calming breaths" to help reduce stress and anxiety, using colors that fade in and out softly as cues. Bonus: it's kid-friendly! Mindset is a small business that specializes in calming personal care and decor products. Promising review: "I started meditating over a decade ago. Intermittent in the beginning, progressing deeper, and finding new joys over time. With Breathing Buddha, the last thoughts have dropped away as counting breath always seemed to keep me conscious of, well, counting. Granted, I have always dropped the counting after a handful of breaths, but Breathing Buddha has made for a delightful transition as I realize it doesn't have to count at all. It is a lovely concept, well executed, and very easy to start using. " — Lynn Get it from Amazon for $21.95 (available in three styles). 21. A gaming/reading/laptop pillow to prop your hands up while you're playing video games, typing, or reading on your Kindle or iPad. This supports your arms for more ~ergonomically-friendly~ experience whether your in bed or and a couch, and even features a lil' side pocket for things like remote controls, glasses, and — of course — emergency snacky snacks. Promising review: "I work from home a few days a week, and every once in a while, my work extends into the evening hours. I have a home office, but sitting at my desk all day is sometimes very tiring. I purchased this big memory foam desk pillow so that I can relax on my couch and still put my laptop up and have a comfortable working area. This pillow is big but very comfortable. It has armrests that wrap around the sides of you and they also have little pockets for random things like your cell phone or the remote, etc. It’s so nice to just lean back into my comfortable couch and have this big soft desk in front of me." — Jenn Butterfield Get it from Amazon for $47.99 (available in two styles). 22. A set of bra strap extenders so you can keep your beloved favorite bras *and* stay nice and comfy (plus save the bajillion dollars on new bras, because yowza, are they expensive). Promising review: "These bra extenders are so easy to use and the best invention ever! I can’t believe I’m in my 50s and just finding these! They have saved me and my girls for sure! I don’t need to go up in size but I needed an extra eyelet worth of room! Very comfortable! I’d highly recommend! Thank you!" — Ally McCoy Get a pack of four from Amazon for $9.75+ (available in 20 set varieties). 23. A set of wildly popular ~hotel~ pillows that will make you feel like a lil' cherub falling asleep on a breezy cloud. Reviewers are obsessed with how these manage to be soft but firm at the same time, and how they're so breathable and cooling that they're basically a must-have for anyone who overheats at night. Promising review: "These had great reviews but I was still a bit skeptical. I'm a bit of a pillow snob. These pillows — these amazing, heavenly pillows — are now my favorite part of going to bed. Soft but firm. How does that work? It gives support for me to sleep slightly propped up but I sink into this comfortable personal cloud. Soft but firm. My head isn't sinking through the pillow to rest on my mattress, but I feel comfortably enveloped. Heaven. I bought two but think that would be too much fluff, so now my husband and I each have one. Buy them. Add to cart. Buy now with one click. Stop the research. You've found the pillows you were looking for. " — Marissa Urey "God himself must use these pillows. I have (or had haha) insomnia, not to mention a bad neck/back *and* hot flashes. The comfort and the cooling is AMAZING (even with silk pillowcase). Thank you, TikTok for influencing me!!!!" — Rickie White Get a set of two from Amazon for $47.99 . 24. And a game-changing "bed wedge" pillow to help take care of that awkward gap between the mattress and the headboard where you keep losing everything from pillows to books to midnight snacks. The triangular shape and high-density foam also stop your pillow from slip-sliding on you in the middle of the night, and help better support and cushion you. Bonus : T here's a lil' side pocket for your phone, glasses, or other nighttime accessories. Promising review: "I did not realize that these were out there until I watched a TikTok about one. This has saved my pillows. I do have a headboard, but there was about a three-inch gap between it and my mattress. This has stopped my pillows from sliding down in between. I have had no issues at all with it. I did let it sit for almost 72 hours while it was getting its shape back from being in a shipping container, but after that, it was perfect!!! I highly recommend." — Miss_Beck Get it from Amazon for $26.09+ (available in two colors and Twin–California King). 25. A HappyLight sunlamp that will be both a literal and metaphorical ~light of your life~ — this adjustable light can help improve your sleep, mood, and energy levels, particularly if you're vibing in a spot where you don't get a lot of direct sunlight. Read more about sunlamps and seasonal affective disorder (SAD) at Cleveland Clinic and Mayo Clinic . Check out a TikTok of the HappyLight in action. Promising review: "I work from home at night. I never see the light of day during the winter. This light has been a joy to have and gives great light at my desk to work with, with the benefit of mimicking sun exposure. It’s very easy to use and to replace bulbs." — Amazon Customer Get it from Amazon for $49.99 (clip the $10 off coupon on the product page for this price). 26. A heated eye massager with so many bells and whistles, it's worth the investment and *then* some — not only does it come with five different massage modes and a 15-minute timer, but it has Bluetooth music so you can vibe with your eyes *and* your ears. Reviewers swear by this to help combat eye strain, headaches, puffy under-eye circles, and dry eyes, and insomnia. Promising review : "I saw this product on one of Amazon’s must-have TikTok videos, and I knew I had to get it. It was so worth it — even though the price may seem higher compared to other sellers, this is for sure a good investment piece. The quality is top-notch, the strap that goes around your head is comfortable, and most importantly, the duration of each mode is long enough that it doesn’t interrupt your rest. I work a 12-hour night shift as a nurse, and this technology has helped me get through the night easily. 👍🏽👍🏽👍🏽" — Amazon Customer Get it from Amazon for $63.99 (clip the $7 off coupon on the product page for this price). 27. A gorgeously designed Hatch Restore 2 — this sunrise alarm and sound machine works overtime as a touch-controlled smart light, bedtime reading light, and even a wind-down light that helps you get into a healthier sleep routine at night, which is especially important to maintain when it's dark out for so long. Other bedside lamps could truly never. Hatch Restore lets you personalize a "bedtime routine" for each night to train your brain to recognize sleep cues and get a better night's rest. Options include changing the light settings to more amber tones to help produce melatonin for sleep, soothing noise options, and sleep meditations and sleep stories you can get in the Hatch app. Promising review: "The Hatch Restore 2 is truly a game changer for those looking to improve their night’s sleep and wake-up routine. It’s been the best bedside companion and has improved my overall health and well-being. The combination of sounds, lights, buttons, and aesthetics really all come to play to make this feel like a truly premium device. There are touch adjustments to adjust the volume and brightness of the clock, which work really well. My favorite feature is the physical buttons which you can press to start or stop the routines; it feels very intentional when I get ready for bed and really gets me in the right mindset to begin my bedtime routine ." — Natasha Advani Get it from Amazon for $199.99 (available in four styles). 28. An undated habit calendar for anyone who has goals they're looking to achieve, but is too stressed out by the rhythm of their daily lives to know how to track or motivate themselves to commit. This not only comes with 12 months worth of tracking strategies for daily, weekly, and monthly goals, but starts out with a lil' brainstorm on things you might want to track, like getting to bed earlier or managing your extra spending. Promising review: " I wanted to reduce stress and nail down some habits, and I've always done better when I can see progress tangibly. I'd been eyeing this calendar for some time, but was unsure if it was worth the money. I decided to go for it. SO glad I did. It has some 'homework' pages at the beginning to help you focus on your goals, but mostly, it's the cleanness and ready-to-go nature of the monthly calendar pages that have worked for me. It's helped me be more disciplined AND narrow my focus so I'm not worrying about doing everything under the sun each day. I liked it so much that I bought a second one for a friend. I'm really happy I made the leap." — Flight of Stars Get it from Amazon for $18.95 . 29. An investment-worthy, super-soft Trtl neck pillow designed to support your head while you're snoozing in midair so you don't land in a new city with a new crick in your neck to boot. Check out a TikTok of the Trtl neck pillow in action. Promising review: "Small and sturdy. Keeps your neck positioned up instead of lolling off to the side. You will wake up refreshed and not sore (in the neck anyways) airplane travel is stressful but this little gem makes it bearable. Kudos to the creator! First time I actually slept comfortably on a plane. Other neck sleepers don’t compare." — Judy M. Get it from Amazon for $64.99+ (available in five colors). 30. A set of YogaToes Gems for potential bunion, plantar fasciitis, and foot pain relief — these flexible, soft gel separators are designed to fit between and beneath your toes to gently distribute pressure from the balls of your feet and alleviate the ache. You can wear them barefoot starting for 10–15 minutes per day, and then can work up to an hour. Check with your doctor before starting any new personal care regimen. Note: these should be worn barefoot, and not while wearing any shoes. Check out a TikTok of the Yoga Toes in action. Promising review: "I have an overlapping toe and a bunion that just started to form on one foot. I use the YogaToes daily for 15–30 minutes to help create space between the toes and relax the feet. I love how my feet feel when I take them off and start walking around. My feet feel stronger and more relaxed. I am a fitness instructor and also teach yoga. I use them before class for a few minutes. They help me feel more grounded as I move. " — Deirdre Sherman Get it from Amazon for $36.95 . 31. A set of Sea Bands , which target an acupressure point on your wrists meant to help reduce nausea — a must-have for anyone who gets motion sick on long car rides, cruises, buses, and trains. Read more about acupressure and nausea at Memorial Sloan Kettering Cancer Center . Promising review: "I bought these for my very first cruise. It was a five-day cruise that had a bit of rough waters the first two days out to sea. I was a little bit wary about whether these would keep the nausea away, as I am very prone to motion sickness (car rides in the mountains, carnival rides, etc). I put these on just before boarding the ship and didn't take them off until the fourth day. By then, I figured my 'sea legs' would have kicked in. I didn't have any issues at all, unlike many of my fellow cruisers . I'm bringing these with me on my next cruise!! I just wish they came in prettier colors!" — EA99 Get a set of two from Amazon for $7.99 . 32. A investment-worthy tube of Nerdwax to keep your glasses from treating the bridge of your nose like a Slip N' Slide — this is especially handy for sunglasses or other frames that aren't prescription, well-fitted ones you typically use, or for sweaty days when your nose is a little ~slippier~ than usual. Nerdwax is a US-based small business that specializes in all-natural anti-slip eyewear products. Promising review: "I can see why it's one of the most successful products seen on Shark Tank. Truly a game-changer . I thought I would forever struggle with my glasses moving down my nose all day long, but this really keeps them put! One less annoyance to deal with while wearing glasses. I already know I'll be a lifelong customer for this product." — M.L. Gomez Get it from Amazon for $9.99 . 33. A Jergens "Wet Skin" moisturizer that works right on the spot so you don't have to wait to dry off to moisturize and then wait for the moisturizer to set, too — this goes on right after you turn off the shower for *instant* moisturized skin. Promising review: "I got the shea butter version and absolutely love the scent. I was skeptical about how it would work on wet skin, but it works really well and feels so much better than the greasy feeling of other moisturizers. So far, I’m loving it!" — EM Get it from Amazon for $8.01 . 34. A Squatty Potty , one of those internet-famous stools you can put at the base of your toilet to prop your feet up on while you ~go~. The placement helps align your colon to make the process a whole lot easier and faster — like, 20 seconds compared to several minutes! — so you don't end up watching all of TikTok while you're waiting yourself out. Psst — a lot of reviewers with chronic constipation and other gastrointestinal issues that get them ~backed up~ swear by this! Read more about constipation relief at home, including using a squatting position, at Cleveland Clinic . Promising review: "This is a game changer. I was skeptical, but this thing REALLY works! Since we started using this about a week ago, we have noticed significantly less abdominal pain, bloating/gas, and increased gut health. I highly recommend this to everyone!" — emily a Get it from Amazon for $24.99+ (available in three sizes). Reviews have been edited for length and/or clarity.
Keira Knightley reveals why she is looking forward to turning 40NOVOTEL and ibis Styles Manila Araneta City Heartists celebrated a triumphant end to the year, marking a series of outstanding achievements across the hospitality and travel industries. The award-winning and powerhouse team of Araneta Hotels Inc. garnered top honors at the prestigious HSMA Virtus Awards, showcasing unwavering dedication to excellence and continuously revolutionizing the marketing landscape. Register to read this story and more for free . Signing up for an account helps us improve your browsing experience. OR See our subscription options.
Hidalgo leads No. 6 Notre Dame over JuJu Watkins and third-ranked USC 74-61 in big matchup out WestOttawa is welcoming the world as it hosts the IIHF World Junior Hockey Championship. But first, some new Team Canada fans were sworn in at a citizenship ceremony at the Canadian Tire Centre on Monday. A cheer and many happy faces were seen as 26 people became Canadian citizens. It marked the end of a long journey for Gonzalo Lozano, whose young son was in the stands cheering him on. He first came to Canada as a university student, studying in Ottawa, and has worked toward this moment ever since. "I just feel privileged to be here and actually become, like, a Canadian citizen in this. Such a nice way," Lozano said. This is the first time a citizenship ceremony has taken place alongside the World Juniors. The new Canadians who were sworn in Monday came from 14 countries. Hockey Canada says the game and welcoming newcomers are a great match up. "It really is a commitment to the game and fun, integrity, fair play, and community. Exactly what these people are bringing to Canada as well," said Hockey Canada's Dean MacIntosh. The Canadian Tire Centre is hosting the World Juniors and these new Canadians are excited to take in the game. "I'm here, haha! It's a good thing," said Olusola Matthew Babatunde, watching his first hockey game at the CTC with his family. Canada took on Czechia in a pre-tournament game Monday, winning 3-2. The tournament officially gets underway on Boxing Day. Team Canada will take on Finland at the CTC, with new fans in attendance. "Of course I'm Team Canada. How could I not be?" Lozano said, donning his first ever hockey jersey. 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 50+ Of The Best Amazon Canada Boxing Day Sales, Deals, And Discounts For 2024 The Altitude Sports Boxing Day Sale Has Begun — Here's What We're Shopping For PSA: The Michael Kors Boxing Week Sale Is Happening Right Now Ottawa Top Stories Ottawa welcomes new Team Canada fans with citizenship ceremony ahead of the World Juniors A light snow on Christmas Eve ahead of Ottawa's white Christmas Traffic dispute threatens to dampen holiday spirit on Taffy Lane House to Home organization in Ottawa helps newcomers set up their lives Trudeau sends Christmas greetings. Read his full message What's open and closed in Ottawa over the holidays What's happening in Ottawa over the Christmas holidays PART 1 | Ottawa mayor speaks on transit funding, federal turmoil in year-end interview CTVNews.ca Top Stories Hong Kong police issue arrest warrants and bounties for six activists including two Canadians Hong Kong police on Tuesday announced a fresh round of arrest warrants for six activists based overseas, with bounties set at $1 million Hong Kong dollars for information leading to their arrests. U.S. president-elect's son shares post on X of Donald Trump buying Canada on Amazon U.S. president-elect Donald Trump and those in his corner continue to send out strong messages about Canada. What is flagpoling? A new ban on the practice is starting to take effect Immigration measures announced as part of Canada's border response to president-elect Donald Trump's 25 per cent tariff threat are starting to be implemented, beginning with a ban on what's known as 'flagpoling.' Trudeau sends Christmas greetings. Read his full message Prime Minister Justin Trudeau issued his Christmas message on Tuesday. Here is his message in full. Heavy travel day off to a rough start after American Airlines briefly grounds all flights American Airlines briefly grounded flights nationwide Tuesday due to a technical problem just as the Christmas travel season kicked into overdrive and winter weather threatened more potential problems for those planning to fly or drive. Economists say more room to fall as Canadian dollar continues downward trend Experts say the next few months are going to be rough for the Canadian dollar as it appears set to continue its downward trend. How much is too much alcohol over the holidays? A doctor explains The holidays are here, as are the parties, happy hours and other get-togethers that often offer abundant mixed drinks, beer and wine. Storms to continue rolling through B.C.'s South Coast over Christmas Day The tempestuous weather that descended on southern B.C. Monday afternoon will linger for the next few days, with a storm forecast for Christmas Day. The Santa Awards: Ranking the best (and most ridiculous) Father Christmases ever to grace our screens Behold, for your festive perusal, some of the most beloved, cherished and out-there onscreen renditions of dear old Saint Nick. Atlantic Snow forecast through Christmas Eve for parts of the Maritimes Parts of the Maritimes that were hit by a weekend snowstorm are in for more of the white stuff this Christmas Eve. 'Can I taste it?': Rare $55,000 bottle of spirits for sale in Moncton, N.B. A rare bottle of Scottish whisky is for sale in downtown Moncton, N.B., with a price tag reading $55,000. N.S. Health warns parents of salmonella exposure at Halifax daycare Nova Scotia Health is warning parents whose children attend a Halifax daycare of a salmonella exposure. Toronto Trudeau could stay or go. Either way, Canadians should brace for a spring election Canada appears to be barrelling toward a spring election now that the NDP is vowing to vote down the government early next year -- whether Prime Minister Justin Trudeau stays on or not. Woman seriously injured after stabbing in Moss Park: paramedics A stabbing in Toronto’s Moss Park neighbourhood Tuesday morning has left a woman with serious injuries as police search for a suspect. Police in York Region thwart alleged car theft in Stouffville, Ont. A suspect from Quebec who was allegedly trying to steal a luxury car in Stouffville, Ont. last Friday was caught with a key fob programmer, police say. Montreal Snowfall means a white Christmas, but also traffic woes across southern Quebec roads A heavy snowfall has guaranteed much of Quebec a white Christmas, but it has also sent cars skidding off the province's roads during the busy holiday travel period. Quebec doing better job at retaining immigrants, Atlantic Canada still struggling Immigrants are increasingly choosing to stay in Quebec, according to a new report from Statistics Canada, but the same isn't true in the Atlantic region, which continues to lose newcomers to the rest of the country. What's open and closed in Montreal during the holidays Here's a list of what's open and closed for the holidays in Montreal. Northern Ontario Norad crew waiting for Santa to fly over Canada as annual holiday track underway Departing from the North Pole while we were all sleeping, Santa Claus' journey around the world bringing presents and Christmas cheer for all of the good boys and girls who believe is underway. Fatal snowmobile crash in northern Ont. near Parry Sound A 30-year-old has died following a snowmobile crash near Parry Sound on Sunday. U.S. president-elect's son shares post on X of Donald Trump buying Canada on Amazon U.S. president-elect Donald Trump and those in his corner continue to send out strong messages about Canada. Windsor WECHU warning of positive avian influenza cases The Windsor-Essex County Health Unit (WECHU) is working to alert the public of the dangers of avian influenza after waterfowl in the area tested positive. Chatham police aware of physical incident between two children going viral on social media The Chatham-Kent Police Service said it is aware of a video going viral on social media, showing a physical incident between two children in the area. Over the holidays, the gift you can give yourself is taking care of your mental health The holiday season can be challenging for many – whether it’s lonely, overwhelming, busy, quiet, or a reminder of people that can’t be with you. London 'It’s a surprise': Shoebox Project gives women impacted by homelessness a Christmas gift For many of the women attending My Sister’s Place (MSP) in London, Ont. the holidays are a difficult time. London fire on scene of Wellington Road collision, containing fuel leak According to London fire, crews are on scene containing a fuel leak. Expect delays in the area on Wellington Road south of the 401. Huron OPP looking to identify theft suspect Huron County OPP are asking for help to identify a suspect wanted in relation to a theft in Goderich. Kitchener What’s open and what’s closed over the holidays A detailed guide to what’s open and closed between Dec. 25 and New Year's Day. Police investigating after vandalization of Pride crosswalk in Waterloo Waterloo Regional Police are investigating after a Pride crosswalk was vandalized in Waterloo on Sunday. How much is too much alcohol over the holidays? A doctor explains The holidays are here, as are the parties, happy hours and other get-togethers that often offer abundant mixed drinks, beer and wine. Barrie Live trackers await Santa Claus and his reindeer crew, special track underway in Simcoe County The spirit of Christmas is in the air as Santa Claus begins his lasting journey to deliver presents to children around the region. No parking on Barrie streets on Christmas Eve Barrie crews will work tonight to clear the snow from its streets. Canada Post delivers the international goods As of Monday, Canada Post is delivering international mail. Winnipeg One person dead, another injured following Monday night house fire One person has died and another is in unstable condition following a house fire Monday evening. Winnipeg police investigating string of packages being stolen The Winnipeg Police Service is investigating a string of package thefts in the Transcona area. ‘Choosing your own adventure’: Winnipeg’s Select Start readies Exchange District for brand new ‘barcade’ experience A new ‘barcade’ in the heart of the Exchange District is hoping to be a successful launch title for a new generation of players. Calgary Three sent to hospital after Glenmore Trail crash Calgary police shut down Glenmore Trail overnight following a crash between a car and a crane truck. Skier seriously injured in avalanche near Revelstoke, B.C. A skier was seriously injured after an avalanche near Revelstoke, B.C., over the weekend. Motorcyclist killed in Lethbridge crash A 36-year-old man is dead after the motorcycle he was riding collided with an SUV in Lethbridge on Monday. Edmonton 'Serious safety issues': Edmonton building where security guard was killed evacuated An apartment building where a security guard was killed earlier this month has been evacuated. Warrants issued for 'dangerous' Edmonton man in sexual assault case The Edmonton Police Service is looking for a 58-year-old man in connection with a sexual assault that happened earlier this year. Alberta RCMP officer fatally shoots man during warrant execution A Tofield RCMP officer was involved in a shooting while searching for a wanted man on Monday. Regina Sask. RCMP still searching for man suspected of small-town break-ins spanning years A man suspected of breaking into offices and small businesses across Saskatchewan over the past number of years has struck again – according to RCMP. 'A nice way to connect': Christmas card exchange between Sask. friends spans 60 years What started out as a little holiday fun between two Regina friends has turned into a tradition that now spans six decades. Dog lost in Saskatchewan during cross-country trip reunited with family A family moving from Ontario to Alberta in November had a scare when their family dog got loose during a stop in Dafoe, Sask. and ran away. Saskatoon More drivers opt for personalized plates in Sask. — and behind every one there's a story You may have noticed a few more vanity plates on Saskatchewan roads in recent years, and every one of them comes with a personal story. 'People prop the doors open': Saskatoon resident concerned as people shelter in her stairwell With the number of homeless people in Saskatoon at an unprecedented high, it’s no surprise people are looking for places to warm up. Saskatoon-born comedian Brendan Flaherty returns for to ask, 'what'd I miss?' As a Saskatoon-born comedian pursuing a career in the Six, Brendan Flaherty says he often hears the same question from friends back home. Vancouver B.C. friends nab ‘unbelievable’ $1M lotto win just before Christmas Two friends from B.C’s lower mainland are feeling particularly merry this December, after a single lottery ticket purchased from a small kiosk landed them instant millionaire status. Storms to continue rolling through B.C.'s South Coast over Christmas Day The tempestuous weather that descended on southern B.C. Monday afternoon will linger for the next few days, with a storm forecast for Christmas Day. Year-end interview: B.C. Premier David Eby reflects on nail-biting 2024 election It was a year that saw David Eby elected B.C. premier for the first time, and lead his party to government for a third consecutive term. Vancouver Island B.C. woman sentenced for impaired driving crash that killed retired Mountie A Vancouver Island woman who was high on drugs when she crashed a car into a pickup truck, killing a retired Mountie and injuring his two passengers, "did not realize what was happening and took no steps to avoid the accident" a B.C. Supreme Court judge found. 5 rescued after avalanche triggered north of Whistler, B.C. RCMP say Emergency crews and heli-skiing staff helped rescue five people who were caught up in a backcountry avalanche north of Whistler, B.C., on Monday morning. 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. 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 ConnectedNone
After Trump's Project 2025 denials, he is tapping its authors and influencers for key rolesNintendo’s 2024 Leaked: A Glimpse Inside Their Gaming Calendar
It is said to be designed for side, back and stomach sleepers by following the shape of the spine Often side and black sleepers can feel that the average pillow does not offer them the support they want. But there is an Amazon pillow that has gained thousands of positive reviews with some saying it has "changed their lives". The Elviros Cervical Contour Memory Foam Orthopaedic Pillow is said to be designed to elevate neck and shoulder pain with its ergonomic shape. The for pillow is £35.99, down from £43.19 and is said to be for side, back and stomach sleepers and has a removable cover for easy cleaning. The product description said: " Elviros contour pillows are well designed to support by following the natural curve of your body keeps air passages optimal for less snoring and more restful sleep. The cut outs on the side give your top arm a place to rest and keep it at an angle so your shoulder is not hunching over in front of you. READ MORE: Get Baileys 'cheaper than the supermarkets' in £10 Amazon limited time deal READ MORE: Five minute 'game changer' hack boosts radiator heat but not your energy bill "The slope keeps your head from rolling out of a stable position. Bringing a reduction of stress in the cervical vertebra and spine. Improving sleep and relieving neck and shoulder pain [and] discomfort rejuvenating your body." People who have already bought the pillow said it has given them the best night's sleep. Alexis said it has changed their life , they said: "Ever since I’ve got this pillow , I’ve slept like a baby each night. Thankful for this purchase every time I lay my head on the pillow. Too blessed to be stressed, thanks to this pillow. Recommend to anyone with a neck." Sahara1666 said: "A life changing pillow? Very possibly! I've only had this pillow two nights so far, so will update if anything changes, but do far I am DELIGHTED. "I suffer from chronic neck and back pain and honestly couldn't remember the last time I got a "good night's sleep". My consultant recommended sleeping on my back which I could never do as I'd wake up stiff and in even more pain than usual...Until I bought this! "For the past two nights I've slept on my back with no difficulty and woken up in the morning feeling refreshed and rested. I'm not pain free, and I don't think that's possible, but it's definitely reduced. Utterly delighted. "I debated buying this for a while because it's not cheap and I've used memory foam pillow before and hated them. All I can say is give it a go. I'm finding it hard to believe that something as simple as a pillow can have made such a huge difference to me, and maybe it'll not last, but for now, I'm an extremely happy customer." However, one person did think that the pillow did not provide them enough support. Lee said: "I am mostly a front sleeper so from that point of view it’s comfortable and therefore I can still use it so it’s not a waste of money but for me it’s not value for money. Unfortunately the lack of robust support for my neck and shoulders has influenced my lower rating." But KatDem said: "Enables me to sleep better. Wonderful for my neck. I am a side sleeper and it holds my head in a position that prevents my drooling on to the pillow. It would have 5* but the cover is rough." And another advised that they use another standard pillow underneath if you find the Elviros Cervical Contour Memory Foam Orthopaedic Pillow too low on its own. Alternatively, there is the highly praised Simba Hybrid® Pillow with temperature regulating Stratos technology and customisable height for £87.20 or the Derila Memory Foam Ergonomic Pillow also said to help woth snoring and neck pain for £41.99.NEW DELHI: Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi’s party and its allies returned to power in the nation’s richest state on Saturday, a boost for the Hindu-nationalist leader after a disappointing general election. In Maharashtra, home to India’s financial capital Mumbai, the Bharatiya Janata Party-led Mahayuti alliance won 233 of 288 seats. The opposition Congress party and its allies won 49 seats in the state elections. “The Mahayuti government... has achieved undisputed and resounding success,” Eknath Shinde, the state’s chief minister, said on social media platform X. Modi lost his majority in parliamentary elections held between April and June and had to depend on fickle allies to form a government. Last month his party won state elections in the northern state of Haryana. State election wins help political parties boost their numbers in the upper house of parliament, which is key for decision-making. In the mine-rich eastern Jharkhand state, the ruling regional party Jharkhand Mukti Morcha, which is in alliance with the Congress-led opposition, won 56 of 81 seats to regain control by defeating the BJP and its allies. Political parties in both states have rolled out a range of measures that they say will benefit farmers and women, both considered critical voting blocks. Meanwhile, Priyanka Gandhi from Congress party, the 52-year-old scion of the Nehru-Gandhi political dynasty, is set to make her debut in parliament after winning the race against a Communist Party candidate by a huge margin of over 400,000 votes in the Wayanad seat in southern Kerala state. She contested a special election after her brother Rahul, who was elected in two constituencies in June, had to vacate one. Her mother Sonia Gandhi is already in parliament. — Agencies
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Tuesday, December 24, 2024 The global domestic tourism market, which generated $1.22 trillion in 2020, is expected to grow significantly, reaching an estimated $6.73 trillion by 2030. This remarkable growth reflects a compound annual growth rate (CAGR) of 13.4% from 2021 to 2030, driven by various emerging trends, including increased online bookings, a preference for unique and exotic holiday experiences, and the growing influence of social media on travel decisions. However, the market’s expansion faces some challenges, including insufficient supportive infrastructure in certain regions. Despite these challenges, the demand for enhanced service standards and the rise of eco-friendly tourism present new opportunities that are expected to fuel the market’s future growth. Several factors are fueling the surge in domestic tourism. The increasing trend of online bookings, where digital platforms and travel apps allow consumers to easily access vacation deals, is reshaping the market. Consumers are now able to compare prices, read reviews, and book accommodations and activities seamlessly through Online Travel Agencies (OTAs) and direct booking channels. Furthermore, the shift toward unique and off-the-beaten-path holiday experiences is resonating with a growing number of tourists. Domestic travelers are looking for new destinations within their own countries that offer authentic and culturally rich experiences, often influenced by social media content. Instagram and YouTube, in particular, are powerful platforms for travel inspiration, influencing millions to explore domestic destinations they might not have considered before. Eco-tourism has also seen a substantial rise, as more travelers become environmentally conscious. As a result, they are seeking sustainable travel options that minimize their carbon footprint while exploring natural attractions. This demand for eco-friendly experiences is pushing destinations to adopt greener practices in order to attract the modern tourist. Despite the growth prospects, the market faces challenges. A key hindrance is the insufficient infrastructure in many countries, particularly in rural or less-developed regions. The lack of adequate transportation, accommodations, and tourist services in some areas can limit the ability of certain destinations to capitalize on the growing demand for domestic tourism. The global domestic tourism market is segmented based on location, mode of booking, tour type, age group, and region. Each of these segments offers unique insights into the consumer preferences and trends driving the tourism market. The domestic tourism market is also divided by region, with Asia-Pacific holding the largest share in 2020, accounting for more than two-fifths of the global market. The region’s dominance is largely attributed to countries like China, India, and Japan, where domestic tourism is a significant driver of the economy. Rising incomes, improved infrastructure, and greater regional mobility have made Asia-Pacific a prime location for domestic travelers. Looking forward, the Latin America, Middle East, and Africa (LAMEA) region is expected to see the fastest growth, with a projected CAGR of 15.7%. As tourism infrastructure improves across these regions and more consumers embrace the concept of staycations and local exploration, LAMEA’s market share is set to grow significantly. The global domestic tourism market is competitive, with numerous travel agencies, online platforms, and tourism boards vying for attention. Leading players include Abercrombie & Kent USA LLC, Cox & Kings Ltd., Butterfield & Robinson, and Thomas Cook India Ltd. These companies are continually adapting to the needs of modern consumers, focusing on offering personalized experiences, luxury services, and sustainable travel options. Online platforms such as Expedia Group, American Express Travel, and Travel Leaders Group are also key players, facilitating seamless booking experiences for travelers worldwide. The domestic tourism market presents numerous opportunities, particularly in regions that are investing in tourism infrastructure and sustainability. Destinations that offer a unique combination of cultural, historical, and natural attractions are expected to see increased demand from both local and international travelers. Additionally, the rise of wellness tourism, adventure tourism, and gastronomic experiences are expected to fuel growth in the coming years. Moreover, the growing trend of personalized travel experiences, facilitated by technology such as artificial intelligence and machine learning, will also enhance the consumer experience and drive further market expansion. The domestic tourism market is poised for significant growth, driven by increased consumer interest in local travel experiences, eco-friendly tourism, and the ease of online booking. While challenges related to infrastructure persist, the demand for high-quality, personalized, and sustainable tourism experiences is expected to shape the future of the industry. As countries focus on improving their tourism services and attracting both domestic and international tourists, the global market for domestic tourism will continue to flourish, reaching an estimated $6.73 trillion by 2030.James May begs pub-goers to stop queuing for the bar as former Top Gear star brands the culprits 'un-British' for forming single file queues to get served By GEMMA PARRY Published: 18:58, 24 December 2024 | Updated: 19:13, 24 December 2024 e-mail 5 View comments James May has begged pub-goers to stop queuing for the bar, branding the culprits as 'un-British' for forming single file lines to get served. The former Top Gear presenter, 61, took to X to share his thoughts on revellers making a single file queue to wait for their drinks in the pub. Mr May wrote: 'Please stop queuing at the bars in pubs. I know we have a Nobel prize for lining up, but this is un-British'. He signed off with: 'Anyway, it's Christmas . Happy Christmas everyone. Peace and love, people'. Many people were quick to agree with his comments, with one writing the practice was 'bizarre'. 'Bizarre to have a wide, empty bar, several staff, yet a single queue back to the door', they wrote. 'I first noticed this during COVID but it seems to have continued'. Another added: 'Absolutely this. A bar queue starts and ends at the bar. Queueing in a line in any pub is an abomination. Any decent bar person will have a good idea of who is next, and any decent pub goer knows who to point to if it's not them'. And another, a bar worker themselves, said: 'As an occasional bar worker, I fully agree. If you’re half decent on the bar you can pick out who’s first, whilst being able to serve a few people pretty much at the same time. Especially if you work well with your other team members'. The former Top Gear presenter, 61, took to X to share his thoughts on revellers making a single file queue to wait for their drinks in the pub Pubs across the UK are begging customers to learn how to order a pint at a bar (Stock Image) More commented that 'good bar staff know who is next in line', while another user added that the 'architecture of bars isn't setup for queuing', before quipping: 'That's why pubs don't look like building societies'. Read More Pubs across the UK plead with Gen Z punters to stop forming single file queues at the bar And another added queuing at the bar 'needs to be eradicated immediately' as it 'massively slows down service'. But not everyone agreed with Mr May, with one asking 'how are people supposed to get a drink James? Do reverse musical chairs until we get served?' In response, Mr May wrote: 'We managed well for centuries'. Another said 'queuing is the most British thing ever' and is a way for everyone to be 'treated fairly'. It comes after pubs across the UK begged their customers to learn how to order themselves a pint at the bar, with establishments in Leeds, London , Scotland and Manchester resorting to putting up signs with instructions. Some pub landlords reportedly think Generation Z have maintained habits picked up during lockdown which were originally designed to ensure social distancing. The behaviour has resulted in an Instagram page, called Pub Queues, which is dedicated to campaigning against the recent phenomenon and to educate younger drinkers on how to approach the bar. People all around the country have sent in snaps of long single file queues at their favourite venues. The campaign states its purpose is to 'end the recent phenomenon of queuing single file in pubs'. It says: 'We queue for the bus, or for the checkout, not at bars'. Some establishments have even started fighting back and have put up signs to discourage drinkers from forming single-file lines. One notice posted on the group reads: 'Please stop queuing in a line. Come to the bar.' Meanwhile, another sign states: 'If there is a single file queue in front of you, walk straight past it and go to the bar'. 'This is not a Post Office, there is no need to queue like one,' another read. While another said: 'Please come up to the bar for service! Please don't queue single file!' James May Top Gear Share or comment on this article: James May begs pub-goers to stop queuing for the bar as former Top Gear star brands the culprits 'un-British' for forming single file queues to get served e-mail Add commentNo. 4-ranked South Dakota stuns No. 1 NDSU to claim share of Valley title