
Monrovia – The Speaker of the House of Representatives, J. Fonati Koffa, has disclosed that the Executive Branch has informed him of plans to strip him of his immunity and state security, just days after he reported threats against his life and rejected calls to resign. Gerald C. Koinyeneh, [email protected] In a strongly worded statement on Wednesday, Speaker Koffa described the withdrawal of his security detail as an intimidation tactic. “I have officially been informed that all state security will be withdrawn tomorrow,” Speaker Koffa said in a Facebook post. “These actions from the Executive do NOT change the fact that I remain the Speaker of the House of Representatives. This only further strengthens my resolve to fight for upholding the Rule of Law and the Liberian Constitution.” Intensifying Power Struggle The announcement comes amid heightened tensions between Speaker Koffa and the so-called Majority Bloc in the Legislature, which recently declared his removal as Speaker. Backed by the Executive, the bloc has accused Koffa of corruption and conflict of interest—allegations he has vehemently denied. Despite the controversial move, Koffa has maintained that his removal was unconstitutional and insists he remains the legitimate Speaker. Threats Against His Life The power struggle has taken a dangerous turn, with Speaker Koffa reporting threats against his life just days before the Executive’s plan to withdraw his state security. Analysts and civil society organizations have raised concerns about the potential for political violence amid the impasse. The Speaker’s refusal to resign has reportedly frustrated the Executive. During a meeting on Monday, President Joseph Boakai urged Koffa to step down, but he declined, citing the Supreme Court ruling he claims validated his position. In response, the Director of the Executive Protection Service (EPS), Sam Gaye, allegedly threatened to recall EPS officers assigned to Koffa. The Speaker reportedly responded defiantly, stating, “The Executive can go ahead.” Hours later, Justice Minister Cllr. Oswald Tweh issued a legal opinion siding with the Majority Bloc, asserting that the Supreme Court’s ruling favored their position. The opinion was endorsed by the Senate, which voted to recognize Representative Richard Koon of the Unity Party as the legitimate Speaker. Call for Respect for Rule of Law The unfolding crisis has drawn the attention of the international community, with diplomatic missions in Monrovia closely monitoring developments. In response to an inquiry from FrontPage Africa, the United States Embassy emphasized the importance of peaceful and lawful political processes in Liberia. “The United States wants to see Liberia’s political processes play out peacefully and with respect to the rule of law,” the Embassy stated. “Liberians expect their leaders to uphold democracy and its practices, including open and transparent political processes and peaceful debate.” The Embassy further urged all parties involved in the crisis to prioritize peace and unity. “It is important that leaders demonstrate unity,” the Embassy added. As the tensions linger on, the call for adherence to democratic principles and the rule of law underscores the international community’s expectations for stability and good governance in Liberia. Support for Koffa swells On social media, Koffa’s resilience has garnered widespread praise. “We’re with you to the end, Hon. Speaker. One thing I know, they can withdraw everything, but not the speakership. Until they can remove you in keeping with the Constitution, you remain the legitimate speaker of our country,” commented Chris Z. Harris. Another supporter, Frederick Tinisi Nimene, added: “Speaker, don’t resign. By resigning, you will frustrate millions of Liberians who are with you. All power is inherited by the people.” Legal Battles Loom In an another move, Speaker Koffa has filed a bill of information before the Supreme Court, calling for the actions of the Majority Bloc, including their decision to recognize “purported Speaker Koon,” to be declared null and void. He argued that their actions violate the Supreme Court’s ruling and are unconstitutional. Koffa also petitioned the High Court to compel Justice Minister Tweh to retract his legal opinion, which he claims misinterprets the Court’s judgment. What Lies Ahead? As the leadership crisis in the House deepens, questions remain over how the withdrawal of state security will impact Speaker Koffa’s day-to-day operations. The coming days are likely to see heightened political and legal drama, with the Supreme Court’s intervention potentially being a deciding factor in the ongoing impasse. Liberians are watching closely, as the struggle for control of the House has far-reaching implications for the country’s governance and the balance of power between the Executive and Legislative branches.The British Columbia government is increasing tax incentives for both local and international film and TV projects in an effort to attract more major productions to the province. Premier David Eby said the tax credit for international projects made in B.C. will jump from 28 to 36 per cent, and an incentive for Canadian-content productions will increase from 35 to 36 per cent. There’s also a special bonus to attract blockbuster productions with budgets of $200 million. Speaking on Thursday at the Martini Town studio, a New-York-themed backlot in Langley, B.C., Eby said tax incentives are the province’s “competitive advantage” and increasing them will help the industry that has been battered by the pandemic, labour disruptions and changes to industry practices. “This is a sector that’s taken some hits. The decision by major studios to ... reduce some of their budgets on production, the impact of labour disruptions, other jurisdictions competing with British Columbia for these productions with significant subsidies for the industry, means that we need to respond,” Eby said, the Manhattan street scene behind him decorated for Christmas. “We need to make sure that we continue to be competitive.” Government numbers show the film industry generated $2.7 billion in GDP in 2022 — roughly one per cent of provincial GDP — and $2 billion in 2023, a year affected by strike action and a decrease in global production A government statement says the incentives begin with productions that have principal photography starting Jan. 1, 2025, and projects with costs of greater than $200 million in B.C. will receive a two per cent bonus. Gemma Martini, chair of industry organization Screen BC and CEO of Martini Film Studios, told the news conference that it has been a “tumultuous” year for film and television, which supports tens of thousands of jobs. “It is clear that British Columbia is a well respected and preferred global production partner, but we must be able to compete at the bottom line,” she said. “We expect, we know, our government’s announcement will put B.C. back in the game to earn our true ‘Hollywood north’ reputation.” Foreign film and TV work makes up an average of 80 per cent of total production spending in B.C., and the government says maintaining strong international relationships is critical for the industry to continue to thrive. The government says it also intends to restore regional and distant-location tax credits that were cut last year for companies with a brick-and-mortar presence outside of Metro Vancouver, the Fraser Valley and Whistler and Squamish. Eby first promised to increase the tax credits as part of his election campaign earlier this year. Just days after the new B.C. cabinet was announced in November, a delegation that included Finance Minister Brenda Bailey and Arts and Culture Minister Spencer Chandra Herbert travelled to California to pitch B.C.‘s film and TV industry. Chandra Herbert told the news conference that during the trip they met industry representatives who are now looking at B.C. “in a bigger way” because of the new incentives. He said the additional two per cent bonus for productions over $200 million is a way to encourage larger productions to come and stay in B.C. “This is a way of making sure that the workers in this industry, and the companies, know that we’re here for them for the long term. You can make these investments long term. You can grow the industry today, tomorrow and into the years ahead,” he said. This report by The Canadian Press was first published Dec. 12, 2024.
Mike Gundy is bringing back a familiar face as his offensive coordinator for 2025. Reports first surfaced Thursday morning about the potential hiring of Doug Meacham as the next OC, and those reports were confirmed by Pokes Report’s Robert Allen just after noon. Meacham has spent plenty of time in Stillwater – first as an offensive lineman from 1983 to 1987 and then as a tight ends and inside wide receivers coach on Gundy’s staff from 2005 to 2012. He was also OSU’s passing game coordinator in 2008 and 2009. Once Meacham left Oklahoma State, he spent time at Houston, Kansas and TCU. He most recently spent four seasons in Fort Worth, where he served various roles on the offensive staff, most recently being the Horned Frogs’ inside wide receivers coach. This is Meacham’s fourth power four offensive coordinator job, with his first one being his most successful. At TCU, Meacham was co-OC from 2014-2016. In that span, he helped produce several high-octane offenses with Trevone Boykin at quarterback. In 2014, TCU just missed out on the college football playoff and had the No. 2 ranked total offense nationally. Meacham’s familiarity with Gundy’s offensive schemes is an appeal, but he’s also been able to learn under coaches like Gary Patterson, Sonny Cumbie, Sonny Dykes and Garrett Riley. Oklahoma State will need to rebuild its offense with Meacham’s help. Under former offensive coordinator Kasey Dunn, the Cowboys failed to produce a top 25 offense in five years after having 11 top-25 offenses in the 12 years leading up to Dunn’s tenure. In 2024, the Cowboys averaged just 27.2 points per game – good for 12th in the Big 12. Additionally, the offense will need to replace Ollie Gordon, Brennan Presley, De’Zhaun Stribling, Rashod Owens and all five starting offensive linemen. It’s unknown whether Meacham will also coach wide receivers or if he will bring in some of his own assistants.
The Deeble family is synonymous with baseball in Melbourne’s west and across the world. Tara Murray chats with Jon Deeble, who has just returned to Australia after winning his sixth Major Baseball League World Series championship. Jon Deeble is living the dream as he spends his year chasing the baseball seasons. Deeble, who grew up in Melbourne’s west, was raised around baseball and has continued his father’s legacy. He is currently the coach of the Melbourne Aces in the Australian Baseball League, while also a director with the Los Angeles Dodgers. “I’m sort of on the road for half the year around the world,” he said. “I’m in Melbourne for a couple of months, coaching the Melbourne Aces. “I’ve been doing it for eight years. I come home and do the Melbourne Aces in the off season, and then get back on the road.” Deeble said it can get busy going from one to the other but it’s something he loves. It’s been a long journey for Deeble since his first visit to America in 1993. Coaching in Melbourne at the time, Deeble initially said no to moving to the states when he was first asked. “I was playing with the Melbourne Monarchs down at Altona, then their licence was taken away,” he said. “I played for the Waverley Reds for a couple of years, then the Monarchs were coming back into existence and they were owned by the Western Bulldogs and they were going to be affiliated with the Florida Marlins. “They asked me to coach the Melbourne Monarchs. From there, John Boles and Rick Freeman, who were both with the Marlins, offered me a job in the states. “The first year I didn’t accept it, as I was working with the Bulldogs, but ended up going over there the next year. “I got to LA and thought, ‘what am I doing as an Australian guy teaching Americans how to play baseball?’ “So that is why it started.” Deeble was with the Marlins when he won the world championship in 1997 before he moved to the Boston Red Sox when the Marlins owner bought the Sox. He was there for 16 years and won three more championship rings, before he was head hunted by the Dodgers. “I coached Major League in 2005. I’ve spent a lot of time coaching in the minor leagues and at the same time scouting Asia. “I’ve sort of had multiple jobs.” The Dodgers recently won the World Series Championships to give Deeble his sixth championship ring and second at the Dodgers. Deeble said every ring was different. “At the start it was really exciting and it’s still really exciting, because you want to win,” he said. “My part of it is the Asian department, director of the Asia Pacific. “We had Yoshinobu Yamamoto pitch the second game of the World Series and he dominated, he’s one of the guys that I’ve signed. “Shohei Ohtani is another. We’ve been very active in the Asian region, not just with major league guys, but minor league guys as well. “That part of it is really interesting and exciting.” Deeble said he could have never imagined where his career would take him when he first started out. He said how it has ended up as a dream come true. “It’s all I’ve known for work for the past 33 years,” he said. “Tommy Lasorda, who is a legend of the Los Angeles Dodgers, passed away a couple of years ago. He is the original Mr Dodger and he signed a photo of himself and gave it to me in 1978 and it said ‘Jon, a future Dodger’. “I’ve still got the photo which is really unreal that I would end up working there as an Australian guy. “It’s been a great ride and I’ve met a lot of people and I have a lot of friends in the states. It’s been a hell of a ride, the Dodgers have been an unbelievable organisation.” It’s no surprise that Deeble entered into baseball when he was young. His father Don Deeble played for Australia and was among the first inducted into the Baseball Australia Hall of Fame. Star Weekly is a sponsor of the Sunshine and Western Region Sports Club’s Don Deeble award which recognises him. Jon Deeble is also a member of the hall of fame, while his brother Michael Deeble also played for Australia. “I’m sure he would be pretty proud,” Jon said of his father. “He was also one that was very quiet, never one to pat you on the back. “He was very quiet or never gave any advice, he just stayed out of it to be honest.” Deeble said he’s happy with where his career is and doesn’t want to climb any higher up the ladder in the states. Among his achievements is coaching the Australian Olympic baseball team for 19 years. For now, Deeble is focused on the Aces’ season. It hasn’t been the ideal start with rain affecting several of their games, but the Aces were still sitting in second spot heading into the weekend’s matches which were after deadline. “Expectations were to win everything, win the final and that has not changed,” he said. “The first week we lost our Australian players, they were away on the Australian team that is six players. “That was a little tough, now home for two weeks it will start to tell the tale, we need to get better.”
Siyata Mobile Shares Are On The Rise Friday: What's Going On?
IBM and State of Illinois to Build National Quantum Algorithm Center in Chicago with Universities and Industriesgeorgeclerk In July , I believed that BlackRock, Inc. ( NYSE: BLK ) was adding more technology and private market access following the purchase of Global Infrastructure Partners. The undisputed ETF investment leader has grown to manage over $10 trillion in assets, as it has If you like to see more ideas, please subscribe to the premium service "Value in Corporate Events" here and try the free trial. In this service we cover major earnings events, M&A, IPOs and other significant corporate events with actionable ideas. Furthermore, we provide coverage of situations and names on request! The Value Investor has a Master of Science with specialization in financial markets and a decade of experience tracking companies via catalytic company events. Value In Corporate Events Learn more Analyst’s Disclosure: I/we have a beneficial long position in the shares of BLK either through stock ownership, options, or other derivatives. I wrote this article myself, and it expresses my own opinions. I am not receiving compensation for it (other than from Seeking Alpha). I have no business relationship with any company whose stock is mentioned in this article. I hold a long position which I am trimming here. Seeking Alpha's Disclosure: Past performance is no guarantee of future results. No recommendation or advice is being given as to whether any investment is suitable for a particular investor. Any views or opinions expressed above may not reflect those of Seeking Alpha as a whole. Seeking Alpha is not a licensed securities dealer, broker or US investment adviser or investment bank. Our analysts are third party authors that include both professional investors and individual investors who may not be licensed or certified by any institute or regulatory body.
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DETROIT -- Two towers at Detroit's iconic Renaissance Center would be razed and the complex converted to a mix of housing and offices under an ambitious $1.6 billion plan announced Monday. The complex, which next year will lose the headquarters of owner General Motors Co., is the symbol of Detroit, with aerial views often shown on television sports broadcasts. GM decided last spring to leave what's locally known as the “RenCen” for a more modern building being constructed downtown. GM said in April it would join forces with the Bedrock real estate development firm and Wayne County to turn the partially vacant property into a roughly 27-acre entertainment complex across the Detroit River from Windsor, Ontario. Under the plans, Bedrock would invest at least $1 billion in the property, with roughly $250 million more coming from GM and another $250 million in yet-to-be-allocated public money, possibly from the state of Michigan. The plan, called conceptual by Bedrock, would preserve most of the skyline and reduce the center's office footprint. Demolishing the two 39-story towers would free land for the waterfront project that would complement a walkway along the river, Bedrock said in a press release. A pedestrian promenade would link the heart of downtown to the riverfront, Bedrock said. The 73-story main tower would remain, with high-end housing on the upper floors, according to Crain's Detroit Business, which first reported the plans. GM CEO Mary Barra said last April that the move to a brand new state-of-the-art office building in the heart of the city will help GM recruit talent in the future. The new site, being built by Bedrock, is about a mile (1.6 kilometers) north of the Renaissance Center. The move also keeps GM’s headquarters in the city for the foreseeable future, she said.In the rapidly evolving world of gaming, vocabulary games are getting an avant-garde makeover with the power of artificial intelligence. While they’ve long served as an engaging tool for learning, these games are set to transcend traditional boundaries, offering players unprecedented interactive experiences. AI-driven personal tutors: Imagine a game that not only teaches you new words but also learns from your interactions to adapt its challenges. Advanced AI algorithms can now personalize vocabulary games based on a player’s skill level and learning speed, offering customized word challenges that maximize vocabulary retention. Augmented Reality (AR) immersion: The integration of AR technology into vocabulary games promises a more engaging experience. Picture a scenario where players, wearing AR glasses, explore a virtual world overlaid on their physical surroundings. Interactive word puzzles pop up as they navigate, turning everyday environments into educational adventures. Social and multiplayer dimensions: The rise of real-time collaboration in gaming is also influencing vocabulary games. New platforms enable players to challenge friends or engage in cooperative word-building tasks. These features not only enhance word knowledge but also foster a sense of community and competition. Gamification of learning: Future iterations will emphasize rewarding progress through virtual rewards, leaderboards, and achievements, making learning something to eagerly anticipate. By leveraging these technological advancements, vocabulary games are poised to play a significant role in educational entertainment. With AI, AR, and social gaming reshaping the landscape, these innovative vocabulary games pave the way for more dynamic, personalized, and interactive learning experiences. The Future of Vocabulary Games: AI Innovations and Immersive Learning Experiences In the dynamic realm of digital gaming, vocabulary games are experiencing a transformative era, courtesy of artificial intelligence (AI) and emerging tech trends. These innovations promise to elevate learning from traditional word exercises to something profoundly interactive and personalized. AI-Driven Personal Tutors One of the most exciting developments in vocabulary gaming is the use of AI to create personal tutors that enhance the learning process. These AI-powered tutors assess a player’s interactions, skill level, and learning speed to tailor challenges specifically for them. The AI’s adaptability ensures that each session remains both engaging and educational, boosting vocabulary retention and mastery. Augmented Reality (AR) Immersion The integration of AR technology into vocabulary games is redefining the way players engage with language learning. Imagine donning a pair of AR glasses and being transported to a world where your immediate environment transforms into a canvas for interactive word puzzles. This not only makes the learning process captivating but also turns everyday settings into interactive educational displays, offering a rich blend of the virtual and the real. Social and Multiplayer Dimensions The evolution of vocabulary games is also marked by their growing social aspects. Modern platforms now support real-time collaboration, enabling players to challenge peers or partake in cooperative word-building tasks. This social layer enhances language acquisition while nurturing a community oriented around learning and competition. Gamification of Learning The gamification trend in education is adding layers of motivation and engagement to vocabulary games. By employing virtual rewards, leaderboards, and achievements, these games make learning a compelling adventure. Players are motivated to return and progress, making vocabulary acquisition a rewarding journey rather than a mundane task. Security Aspects and Privacy With these advancements, security and privacy become paramount. Developers are prioritizing secure platforms where players’ data, such as learning habits and personal progress, is safeguarded. Ensuring that AI and AR technologies are implemented with robust privacy measures will be key to maintaining user trust and integrity. Sustainability and Future Trends The increasing focus on sustainable practices is influencing the gaming industry as well. Developers are exploring energy-efficient software and eco-friendly materials for AR gadgets to lessen their environmental impact. As these innovations continue to evolve, vocabulary games of the future are predicted to be more sustainable, efficient, and accessible to a broader audience. These elements highlight a promising future for vocabulary games, where AI, AR, and social gaming converge to create dynamic, personalized, and interactive learning experiences. As technologies advance and gaming platforms enhance their offerings, language learning will increasingly become an engaging, day-to-day adventure.
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DAYTONA BEACH, Fla. (AP) — Rasheed Bello had 20 points in Purdue Fort Wayne's 87-81 victory over Drexel on Monday. Bello added eight assists for the Mastodons (4-2). Corey Hadnot II went 6 of 7 from the field (3 for 4 from 3-point range) to add 15 points. Jalen Jackson had 13 points and went 6 of 13 from the field. The Dragons (4-3) were led in scoring by Cole Hargrove, who finished with 19 points, 14 rebounds and four assists. Kobe Magee added 15 points and three steals for Drexel. Shane Blakeney finished with 12 points. Jackson scored nine points in the first half and Purdue Fort Wayne went into halftime trailing 37-35. Bello scored 15 second-half points. The Associated Press created this story using technology provided by Data Skrive and data from Sportradar .Responding to a significant increase in potential threats to lawmakers and the public in recent years, Secretary of State Alexi Giannoulias’s office recently implemented new emergency rules requiring nearly anyone to pass through security screening upon entering the Statehouse or any building in the Illinois Capitol Complex. “Unfortunately, the world is not getting safer,” Amy Williams, senior legal adviser in the secretary of state’s office, told a legislative oversight committee Tuesday. One of the more serious threats, Williams said, occurred in March when security officials were notified of an active shooter threat, prompting a lockdown of the complex. The lockdown was lifted after investigators determined there was no credible threat, according to reports at the time. In April, police locked down the Capitol for about an hour as the building was cleared following a bomb threat. Illinois State Police arrested a suspect accused of making the threat the following month. So far in 2024, Williams told the committee, the Secretary of State Police Department has responded to 17 threats to the Capitol, nearly twice as many as any other year since 2018. There have also been threats directed at individual lawmakers. In September, a man was arrested for threatening to assassinate Rep. Jeff Keicher, R-Sycamore. And on Monday, Dec. 9, Rep. Barbara Hernandez, D-Aurora, reported an employee in her district office became ill after opening office mail, according to a social media post. The employee was transported to a local hospital, prompting police to evacuate the building and cordon off a portion of the street while emergency crews responded. In October, Williams said, the secretary of state’s office was advised by a security consultant to increase the number of people required to go through security screening to include everyone other than lawmakers, state government employees and other elected officials. That meant many people who had previously been given unrestricted access to the building — including lobbyists, vendors and members of the news media — now have to go through security screening as well. “Primarily that decision came about because members of the General Assembly, elected officials, are sensibly background checked by their constituents who choose them to go to the Capitol to do the people's work on their behalf,” she said. “And state government employees are background checked by their respective agencies. Lobbyists, vendors and members of the press are not subject to any background check.” To avoid congestion, Williams said the office has set up a “TSA Express-style” screening point at the east entrance of the building for those individuals who previously had unfettered access. The security changes near the tail end of a three-year, $224 million renovation project that will make permanent changes to the way the public enters and exits the Capitol. That project involves restoration and remodeling of the entire north wing of the Capitol. When it’s completed, sometime in 2025, all public access will be through a new entryway on the north side of the building where people will pass through security screening before entering the building itself. Until then, visitors will continue entering through either the east or west doors of the building where metal detectors and baggage x-ray machines are located just inside the building. Lawmakers are tentatively scheduled to return to the Statehouse Jan. 2 for the start of a brief lame duck session. The regular 2025 session begins Wednesday, Jan. 8.
Two Fox News hosts and at least one other journalist have captured and shared their own photos and videos of the mysterious drones flying with increasing intensity around New Jersey and elsewhere in the past few weeks, with one saying he saw a craft that was as big as a school bus hovering 100 feet off the ground in Montclair. “Fox & Friends” host Steve Doocy told his co-hosts Tuesday that he has observed the flying craft multiple times now, coming in “low, they’re about 100 yards, flying over my backyard. ... They are buzzing overhead all the time. The scary part is when they stop. They just kind of hover for a little while.” The FBI, New Jersey State Police and other agencies are scrambling to identify the strange craft, described as “SUV-sized,” able to avoid radar detection and so far elusive to all interception efforts, as helicopters are advised to stay away. Dozens if not hundreds of videos and photos have been posted on social media, yet the military has stated that they are neither U.S. assets nor a foreign adversary’s. Earlier this week, the mayors of 21 towns demanded that Gov. Phil Murphy take action. The story began unfolding early last week on conservative media like Fox News and the New York Post, but has gained momentum as the unidentified flying objects return to the area night after night, flying over sensitive infrastructure and even military installments, . and images was already over 30,000 memers. “Fox & Friends Weekend” host Rachel Campos-Duffy says her own family caught an image of a flyover this week, also from her New Jersey home. She said she’d seen them before, and that her kids captured the video she shared on TV. “This is all everyone is talking about (in New Jersey),” Campos Duffy said on “Fox & Friends.” “I think what you’re seeing is no answers – whatever the governor put out was not satisfactory – people want more transparency from government, and they are so tired of the lies being told to them by the government. ... People are outraged by this. Three weeks, no answer.” Rachel spots drones flying above her NJ home — Ainsley Earhardt (@ainsleyearhardt) Evan Cutler, a New Jersey TV host, writer and photographer, appeared on Dan Abrams’ NewsNation show this week to tell of his encounter with a “drone on steroids.” “Who knows what it was, but it was not the drone you see people fly,” Cutler said. “It was the size of a school bus – literally the size of two-car garage. It’s getting closer and closer – at first I think it’s a plane or helicopter, then it’s hovering right over the woods ... and it’s a drone literally 40 feet wide by 40 feet wide.” Source: This is the video of the man who saw an up close version of the UFO UAP Drones we have been seeing in NJ... The UFO was a few feet away from him and he said: "It was the size of a 2 car garage" "40 feet by 40 feet" "It looked a drone on steroids"... — Just (@Kobe_for_3) The craft do not seem to have a consistent shape, and only come out at night. They bear flashing FAA-style underside lights that do not look the same as a commercial or private airplane’s, and have been observed hovering in the air for several hours – almost impossible for modern drone-battery technology. Some look like fixed-wing aircraft but fly very slowly and do not make any sound; others have observed “orbs” or single points of light that make unusual maneuvers. Besides New Jersey, the drones are also being spotted in parts of Pennsylvania, New York and on the West Coast. The truth is still out there. The post appeared first on .Special counsel moves to abandon election interference and classified documents cases against Trump
PPA Asia and MLP Asia Set to Launch, Bringing World-Class Pro Pickleball to the World’s Most Populous ContinentThe recently released Royal Commission of Inquiry about New Zealand’s COVID response highlights the harmful impact of misinformation and disinformation on public health. While the report offers no solutions, it notes that disinformation campaigns fuelled division and loss of trust in government. It’s an age-old problem that has proved extremely difficult to counter. Indeed, the practice of disinformation and propaganda has , with some of the earliest recorded use of these techniques dating back to antiquity. The Greeks were among the first to study and formalise the art of rhetoric, a cornerstone of effective propaganda. In 2010, colleagues and I published that analysed vaccine narratives for the use of logical fallacies defined by Aristotle. We highlighted many common techniques of manipulation. It was a fun exercise in a more innocent time. Understanding and analysing these manipulative tactics has evolved alongside their use in both political and military strategies. So have the tactics of mitigating the impact of such strategies. Early approaches to counteract these effects typically involved promoting transparency, education and critical thinking. This still stands today, but the time for merely talking about the problem has passed. What’s required now is decisive action and robust policy to address misinformation and disinformation as we navigate the ongoing impacts of the COVID pandemic. How to recognise misinformation and disinformation Misinformation refers to inaccurate information spread without harmful intent, often due to a misunderstanding or mistake. Disinformation, on the other hand, is deliberately deceptive and crafted to manipulate public sentiment or promote discord. Research has meticulously mapped the contours of . Experts highlighted that the before the pandemic. Identifying misinformation and disinformation involves a critical evaluation of content and its source. A first question is the source credibility. Is the information from a recognised authority or reputable news source? The next bit, logical consistency, is harder to detect. Does the information contain contradictions or logically impossible claims? Many false narratives are internally inconsistent or implausible. Often there will also be at least some level of emotional manipulation. Disinformation frequently exploits emotions such as fear or anger to enhance engagement and sharing. The subtle art of rhetoric Logical fallacies are errors in reasoning that undermine the logic of an argument. For example, the fallacy attacks the person making an argument rather than the argument itself. This is a common tactic to undermine credible sources. Cherry picking is the practice of selecting data that support a particular argument while ignoring data that contradict it. This is harder to spot if you are unfamiliar with the topic. Conspiracy theories are another major tool in the propaganda kit. During the pandemic, numerous conspiracy theories have misrepresented scientific evidence and the intentions of health authorities and experts. The claim of cover-ups is often the final go-to when there is no other convincing argument. Studies have repeatedly shown how and how this influences public perceptions and behaviours . From myths about vaccine ingredients causing harm to conspiracy theories about global surveillance, these untruths have a real impact. Surveys have repeatedly highlighted a worrying trend: a segment of the public, including some health professionals, , fuelled by unmitigated misinformation. How to counter disinformation The consequences of disinformation campaigns are not abstract or random. It is crucial to recognise that such campaigns are meticulously designed and executed with specific goals in mind. One of the most insidious is the erosion of social cohesion. This is achieved by injecting divisive and false narratives into public discourse. They exploit socio-political fissures, amplifying scepticism and opposition to public health measures such as vaccination. These campaigns leverage sophisticated strategies and technologies to manipulate public perception. They exploit societal divisions and foster distrust in authoritative sources, particularly in science and medicine. Once consensus on basic facts is eroded, effective action becomes difficult. Significant research efforts have aimed to understand how best to counter misinformation and sophisticated disinformation campaigns. These emphasise the importance of clear, consistent and credible communication from trusted sources. Public health campaigns that engage directly with community leaders and employ tailored messaging have shown promise in . “ ”, which involves educating people on how to spot misinformation before they encounter it, is gaining traction. Authorities and public health leaders must prioritise transparency to rebuild and maintain public trust. Being open about the uncertainties and evolving nature of science can help mitigate the impact of disinformation that exploits gaps in public knowledge. Increasing media literacy is also important. By understanding the common tactics used in disinformation campaigns, people can become less susceptible to their influences. Collaboration between governments, international organisations and tech companies is essential. These stakeholders must work together to detect and limit the spread of harmful content and promote accurate information appropriate to the audience (right message, right messenger, right platform). Time to act Despite these insights, a coordinated, large-scale and multi-pronged strategy to combat misinformation remains elusive. Governments and health organisations often react to misinformation rather than being proactive, or worse, leave a vacuum. The challenge of misinformation is not insurmountable, but it requires more than ad-hoc responses. We need a strategic, well-resourced commitment from the highest levels of government and health leadership. It takes courage and the ability to walk a tightrope between freedom of speech and protecting public health. Both are human rights. As we continue to navigate the repercussions of the COVID pandemic, let us prioritise the integrity of our public health communications and bring all the facets we need to do this together. This includes media, tech companies, academics and community leaders. Only through a united front can we hope to restore and maintain the public trust essential for overcoming this crisis and future public health challenges. To remove this article -
Led by a dynamic one-two punch, the Vernon (VSS) Panthers girls basketball team booked their spot in the annual Tsumura Basketball Invitational (TBI) quarterfinals. The TBI, hosted in Langley, features 64 of the best teams across B.C., split into two 16-team brackets. VSS was drawn against the Brittania Bruins from Vancouver in the opener in the Select 16 bracket. After a back-and-forth battle, the Panthers eked out a 67-58 victory. Leading the way for the Panthers was the Grade 11 duo of Adie Janke and Chloe Collins, who combined for 43 of the team's 67 points. Janke's 23 points came off of three triples and numerous clutch buckets in the late fourth quarter as the Panthers clawed their way back down 56-53 with four minutes to go. Through six games so far this year, the Panthers are without a loss. They will look to continue that streak on Thursday, when they play the South Delta Sun Devils in the quarterfinals after the Sun Devils won, 84-58, over the Centennial Centaurs from Coquitlam. Two other Okanagan teams are playing in the tournament, the Okanagan Mission (OKM) Huskies and the Kelowna Secondary School Owls, competing in the Super 16 bracket. The Huskies were humbled, 60-48, by Surrey's Holy Cross Crusaders, while the Owls won a close one, 57-56, against St. Michaels University School from Victoria. KSS plays the Brookswood Bobcats out of Langley next, at 6:15 p.m. on Thursday.DAYTONA BEACH, Fla. (AP) — Rasheed Bello had 20 points in Purdue Fort Wayne's 87-81 victory over Drexel on Monday. Bello added eight assists for the Mastodons (4-2). Corey Hadnot II went 6 of 7 from the field (3 for 4 from 3-point range) to add 15 points. Jalen Jackson had 13 points and went 6 of 13 from the field. The Dragons (4-3) were led in scoring by Cole Hargrove, who finished with 19 points, 14 rebounds and four assists. Kobe Magee added 15 points and three steals for Drexel. Shane Blakeney finished with 12 points. Jackson scored nine points in the first half and Purdue Fort Wayne went into halftime trailing 37-35. Bello scored 15 second-half points. The Associated Press created this story using technology provided by Data Skrive and data from Sportradar .OTTAWA — Incoming U.S. president Donald Trump is brushing off Ontario's threat to restrict electricity exports in retaliation for sweeping tariffs on Canadian goods, as the province floats the idea of effectively barring sales of American alcohol. On Wednesday, Premier Doug Ford said Ontario is contemplating restricting electricity exports to Michigan, New York state and Minnesota if Trump follows through on a threat to impose a 25 per cent tariff on imports from Canada. "That's OK if he that does that. That's fine," Trump told American network CNBC when asked Thursday about Ford’s remarks on the floor of the New York Stock Exchange. “The United States is subsidizing Canada and we shouldn’t have to do that," Trump added. "And we have a great relationship. I have so many friends in Canada, but we shouldn’t have to subsidize a country," he said, claiming this amounts to more than US$100 billion annually in unspecified subsidies. Meanwhile, an official in the Ford government says it's considering restricting the Liquor Control Board of Ontario from buying American-made alcohol. The province says the Crown agency is the largest purchaser of alcohol in the world. The province also says it could restrict exports of Canadian critical minerals required for electric-vehicle batteries, and bar American companies from provincial procurement. Ford doubled down Thursday on the idea of cutting off energy exports. The province says that in 2013, Ontario exported enough energy to power 1.5 million homes in those three states. "It's a last resort," Ford said. "We're sending a message to the U.S. (that if) you come and attack Ontario, you attack livelihoods of people in Ontario and Canadians, we are going to use every tool in our tool box to defend Ontarians and Canadians. Let’s hope it never comes to that." Ontario Energy Minister Stephen Lecce said the province would rather have co-operation with the U.S., but has mechanisms to "end power sale into the U.S. market" the day Trump takes office on Jan. 20. Alberta Premier Danielle Smith ruled out following suit. "Under no circumstances will Alberta agree to cut off oil and gas exports," she said. "Our approach is one of diplomacy, not threats." Michael Sabia, president and CEO of Hydro-Québec, said "it's not our current intention" to cut off Quebec's exports to Massachusetts or New York state, but he conceded it might be possible. "Our intention is to respect those contracts, both because they're legally binding, but also because it's part of, in our view, a sound relationship with the United States," he said. "It's a questionable instrument to use in a trade conflict." Manitoba Premier Wab Kinew would not directly say whether Manitoba would threaten to withhold hydroelectric exports. "We are preparing our list and starting to think through what those options should look like," he said. "I'm not going to make specific news today about items that we're looking at." Kinew added that some premiers felt retaliatory measures wouldn't work in a call Trudeau held Wednesday. Newfoundland and Labrador Premier Andrew Furey said "we have no interest in stopping" the export of energy to the U.S., adding that a trade war would hurt both countries. "We hope it is just bluster; we're preparing as if it is not," he said. Canada supplies more oil to the U.S. than any other country. About 60 per cent of U.S. crude oil imports are from Canada, and 85 per cent of U.S. electricity imports as well. Canada sold $170 billion worth of energy products last year to the U.S. It also has 34 critical minerals and metals the Pentagon is eager for. Trump has threatened to impose a 25 per cent tax on all products entering the United States from Canada and Mexico unless they stem the flow of migrants and drugs. Canadian officials have said it is unfair to lump Canada in with Mexico. U.S. customs agents seized 43 pounds of fentanyl at the Canadian border last fiscal year, compared with 21,100 pounds at the Mexican border. Canada since has promised more border security spending to address Trump's border concerns. Ford said that will include more border and police officers, as well as drones and sniffer dogs. This report by The Canadian Press was first published Dec. 12, 2024. — With files from The Associated Press, Liam Casey in Toronto, Lisa Johnson in Edmonton and Steve Lambert in Winnipeg. Dylan Robertson, The Canadian Press