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Thanksgiving is nearly here, but this year’s turkey-filled holiday may be a bit more contentious than year’s past; the 2024 U.S. presidential election was only three weeks ago, after all. Ever since President-elect Donald Trump claimed victory over Vice President Kamala Harris , some Americans may not be feeling so jolly and bright this holiday season, what with the merry-go-round of controversial cabinet picks and concerns over Trump’s anti-immigration policies and stance on LGBTQ+ rights . For some Americans, Thanksgiving serves as a time to gather with friends and family and acknowledge what it is we’re truly grateful for. But for others, the holidays can prove to be difficult, especially when your political views greatly differ from your relatives. Not everyone has the ability to put politics aside for the sake of a peaceful meal, considering certain issues have direct impacts on the health and safety of our loved ones (or even ourselves). These days, it seems nearly impossible to avoid such hard-pressing topics, and we shouldn’t be avoiding all responsibility when it comes to these discussions either. However, that doesn’t mean we should reject all that the holiday season, including Thanksgiving, has to offer, like feelings of joy and togetherness. That’s why The Independent spoke with Sean O’Neill , a licensed marriage and family therapist, for his expert advice on how to navigate this year’s Thanksgiving dinner, all while avoiding political discussions that are sure to ignite a heated debate. For starters, why is it that these contentious arguments tend to flare up at the dinner table in the first place? Well, according to O’Neill, peoples’ political views have become deeply intertwined with their identities and values. When someone disagrees with those views, it can feel like they’re challenging who we are at our core. “Family dynamics and the nostalgia of the holiday can amplify emotions, creating a perfect storm for conflict. We’re also coming in with all the polarization we’ve seen on social media, where echo chambers have made it easy to dig in our heels,” he told The Independent . “So, it’s not surprising that discussions can turn heated when we’re all in one room, balancing our desire to connect with the pressure of defending our beliefs.” When these dinner table discussions go south, it’s important to remember why we’re all celebrating Thanksgiving together in the first place. Although you may not agree with your friend or family member’s political views, it’s polite for a Thanksgiving host to acknowledge their opinion. O’Neill suggested the response, “I understand where you’re coming from,” before gently sharing your own perspective. This way, it helps to create a more constructive dialogue rather than a combative one. What’s more, using “I” statements can be especially effective during a contentious political discussion. Not only does this technique avoid any semblance of a personal attack, but it also invites a more open and respectful conversation. “Keeping the tone friendly and focusing on the ideas rather than the person can help maintain a positive atmosphere while still expressing your disagreement,” the family therapist said. Unfortunately, there may come a time during Thanksgiving dinner when that respectful dialogue veers off course, and the conversation must be redirected. According to O’Neill, the best way to diffuse tension is to acknowledge everyone’s feelings and views without dismissing them. Then, try pivoting to a related topic that’s less divisive, such as community issues or shared interests. “Humor can also be a great tool; a light-hearted comment can break the ice and ease the tension,” he recommended. “Focusing on common ground or shared values can help remind everyone that, at the end of the day, we’re all human and connected, which is what really matters during the holidays.” Instead of diving into politics this Thanksgiving, go around the table and ask your guests their favorite holiday traditions or what they’re most thankful for this year. Or, offer up some of the movies or TV shows you watched over the past few months. O’Neill added: “If you throw in a few fun, light-hearted games or trivia about Thanksgiving, it can keep the mood upbeat and steer the focus away from potentially contentious topics, ensuring everyone has a good time!” Ultimately, taking care of our mental health should be a main priority this holiday season, especially after such a politically divisive year. This Thanksgiving, prepare yourself as best as possible for potentially contentious dinner table discussions by practicing self-awareness and setting your boundaries. “Know your triggers and how you usually respond in heated situations, which can really help you manage your emotions when things get tense,” O’Neill said. “Setting some ground rules for discussions can be super helpful, like agreeing to steer clear of certain topics or just focusing on understanding each other rather than debating.” Additionally, carve out time for activities that can recenter and recharge your energy, such as going for a walk, reading, or even finding a quiet moment to yourself. Deep breathing and meditation ahead of the holiday season can also help you stay centered during stressful Thanksgiving debates. “It’s helpful to remind myself that it’s okay to take breaks during gatherings, stepping away for a bit if things get too intense,” O’Neill added. “And let’s not forget to prioritize gratitude and connection over confrontation — reminding ourselves of what we appreciate about each other can really shift the atmosphere and keep the focus on the positives instead of diving into arguments.”pg // Georgia Democrats map out postelection strategy after Trump’s winThe hospital, known for its advanced medical technology, renowned specialists, and top-notch facilities, has long been a preferred choice for patients seeking critical and specialized medical care in Guangzhou. With a strong reputation for providing exceptional medical services and addressing complex healthcare needs, the hospital plays a crucial role in the healthcare ecosystem of the city.bet 0 。

Quick Links The aircraft's development process began in 1963 Additional elements of the aircraft's systems have been reproduced for other aircraft The E-3 Sentry has an extensive operational history The Boeing E-3 Sentry, an aircraft used for Airborne Warning and Control (AWACS), is a competent aircraft used by the United States Air Force and other allies. Boeing developed it and its design was based on that of the Boeing 707. With a distinctive and easily identifiable radar dome, the aircraft is capable of offering all-weather surveillance, command, control, and communication capabilities. Get all the latest aviation news from Simple Flying! The plane is currently in service with the United States Air Force, the French Air and Space Force, the Royal Saudi Air Force, and the Chilean Air Force, and a total of 68 aircraft rolled out of Boeing factories during a 15-year production run from 1977 to 1992. The E-3 Sentry was originally designed to replace the Lockheed EC-121 Warning Star, an earlier AWACS platform that was still powered by piston engines. After a competitive development process, Boeing was chosen by the Air Force for the project, and its prototype was fitted with radar systems designed by Westinghouse and Hughes. The former, a pulse-Doppler radar , was ultimately selected for testing and eventual application. The first production E-3 entered service with the United States Air Force in 1977, and deliveries continued throughout the next ten years. Over the years, E-3 Sentry aircraft were delivered as follows: Customer: Number of E-3 Sentry aircraft purchased: United States Air Force 34 North Atlantic Treaty Organization (NATO) 18 Royal Air Force 7 Royal Saudi Air Force 5 French Air and Space Force 4 A capable aircraft that has served an important role over time Throughout the years, the E-3 Sentry has been upgraded multiple times for it to remain capable and relevant in the world of modern aerial combat. Northrop Grumman would eventually be given the task of managing the aircraft's control systems. The E-3 Sentry would ultimately be the last aircraft produced based on the Boeing 707, and it is set to be retired by 2027, which will mark the end of the aircraft family's extensive operational history . While fighter jets and stealth bombers often get the majority of attention, the importance of the operational role played by airborne early warning and control aircraft is difficult to fully quantify. These aircraft are critical elements of the Air Force's inventory and provide crucial support and intelligence-gathering capabilities that support any military initiative. Unlike JSTARS, AWACS is showing no signs of being ready for retirement. As a result, the E-3 Sentry has been a crucial piece of the Air Force's operational capabilities since it first entered service. Let's take a deeper look at the development, operational history, and specifications of the Boeing E-3 Sentry. The aircraft's development process began in 1963 The E-3 Sentry was designed to leverage advancements in radar technology with computer-managed real-time data capabilities, which would allow it to detect low-flying aircraft and distinguish enemy targets from radar clutter. The aircraft's development began in the early 1960s, and Boeing's 707 was eventually chosen to be the platform for the new radar technologies that the Air Force was developing. The earliest prototypes, which were designated as EC-137Ds, first took to the skies in 1972, and would later be equipped with the Westinghouse radar that the Air Force had approved. This radar offers next-generation digital processing capabilities and Doppler frequency resolution. Mission systems for the aircraft would be designed by IBM and Hazeltine, and the first production variant took to the skies in 1975 for the first time and would later be delivered in 1977. The E-8 Joint STARS tracks targets on the ground with high accuracy while the E-3 Sentry flies high above, watching everything in the skies. Additional elements of the aircraft's systems have been reproduced for other aircraft Over time, the Boeing 707 would go out of production, but NATO allies would remain interested in the E-3 Sentry's capabilities. As a result, Japan operates modified 767 aircraft equipped with E-3 Sentry systems. The Air Force has also already begun to retire its E-3 Sentry fleet. According to the organization , the first E-3 Sentry aircraft retirement took place back in March 2023, demonstrating the beginning of a transition towards newer AWACS platforms. In the United States and the United Kingdom, the E-3 Sentry is set to be replaced by the E-7 Wedgetail, an AWACS platform derived from the Boeing 737, according to Airforce Technology . Here are some specifications for the E-3 Sentry: Category: E-3 Sentry Specification: Maximum takeoff weight (MTOW): 347,000 pounds Range: 4,000 miles Service ceiling: 29,000 feet The E-3 Sentry has an extensive operational history The E-3 Sentry has played a critical role in airborne surveillance and control missions since it first entered service in the late 1970s . The United States Air Force's E-3 Sentry fleet is primarily based out of Tinker Air Force Base in Oklahoma, with some additional units based in the Pacific. The aircraft has proven its worth over the years, first entering combat during Operation Desert Storm, where it flew nearly 400 missions and assisted in 38 of 41 air-to-air kills made during the conflict. The aircraft also played a critical role in the 1999 bombing of Yugoslavia and Operation Inherent Resolve against the Islamic State in 2015. The Royal Air Force used the aircraft extensively to assist in airstrikes against the Islamic State until the aircraft was retired in 2021. The French Air and Space Force is currently evaluating potential successors to its fleet. In addition, NATO used its fleet extensively during Operation Eagle Assist in the years following the September 11th terrorist attacks and during the conflict in Afghanistan .Australia dumps plan for fines for social media giants enabling misinformation

The deal, announced on Tuesday night, will see hostilities between Israel and Iran-backed militants Hezbollah suspended for 60 days, with both sides withdrawing from southern Lebanon. Brokered by the US and France, the agreement is designed to provide a permanent end to the conflict, US President Joe Biden said following the announcement. But Israeli ministers insisted it would resume strikes on Lebanon if Hezbollah breached the terms of the ceasefire, while the deal does not affect Israel’s continuing war with Hamas in Gaza. In a statement, Sir Keir Starmer described the deal as “long overdue”, saying it would “provide some measure of relief to the civilian populations of Lebanon and northern Israel, who have suffered unimaginable consequences during the last few months of devastating conflict and bloodshed”. He said: “Now, this deal must be turned into a lasting political solution in Lebanon, based on Security Council Resolution 1701, that will allow civilians to return permanently to their homes and for communities on both sides of the border to rebuild. “The UK and its allies will continue to be at the forefront of efforts to break the ongoing cycle of violence in pursuit of a long-term, sustainable peace in the Middle East. “We must see immediate progress towards a ceasefire deal in Gaza, the release of all hostages and the removal of restrictions on desperately needed humanitarian aid.” The announcement of the deal follows a day of intense Israeli air strikes in Beirut, with local authorities saying at least 24 people were killed in the bombardment while Hezbollah continued to fire rockets into northern Israel. Recommending the ceasefire to his cabinet, Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu said the deal would isolate Hamas in Gaza and allow Israel to focus more on Iran, which supports both Hamas and Hezbollah and has staged attacks on Israel in recent months. Foreign Secretary David Lammy said the announcement offered “hope” and must become “a turning point that builds momentum towards a lasting peace across the Middle East”. He said: “The UK was the first G7 country to call for an immediate ceasefire between Israel and Lebanese Hezbollah in September and we have worked relentlessly since with our allies and partners to apply pressure to end this conflict since. “We strongly urge all parties to use this agreement to open a pathway to a lasting peace.” While aid organisations have welcomed the ceasefire, they have also called for it to be made permanent and extended to the conflict in Gaza. Amelia Whitworth, head of policy, campaigns and youth at the children’s charity Plan International UK, welcomed news of the deal. She said: “It is essential that all parties respect this ceasefire so that vital humanitarian aid can be delivered to the children and families that desperately need it.” Ms Whitworth added: “Today’s agreement must act as a vital step towards a sustained, permanent ceasefire – both in Lebanon and across Gaza and the wider Middle East region. “The horror must stop immediately, all children deserve to enjoy their childhood free from the threat of violence.” Paras Tamang, global humanitarian director at ActionAid, echoed her comments, saying the ceasefire would provide “temporary relief” for civilians but was “not an acceptable long-term solution to the crisis”. Mr Tamang said: “Whilst air strikes may stop for a while, the fallout from these attacks will continue to be felt for years to come. “More humanitarian aid is needed to help the hundreds of thousands of people who have lost everything.” According to the UN, more than 3,700 people, including 240 children, have been killed in Lebanon since the latest round of fighting began in October 2023, while around 900,000 have been displaced.