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Best of the West MBB: UCLA on top despite loss as Utah State rises, Washington State and Nevada fallEvery year, in the neighborhood of 40,000 people flock to Omaha for a chance to hear Berkshire Hathaway ( BRK.A -0.39% ) ( BRK.B -0.56% ) CEO Warren Buffett speak about stocks and the U.S. economy. This mecca for investors has been driven by the Oracle of Omaha's vast outperformance of the benchmark S&P 500 ( ^GSPC -1.11% ) since taking over as CEO six decades ago. Whereas the S&P 500 has delivered an impressive total return, including dividends, of around 40,000% through the closing bell on Dec. 26, Buffett has steered his company's Class A shares (BRK.A) to a cumulative gain of 5,515,517% over the same span. Using Berkshire Hathaway's quarterly filed Form 13Fs to mirror Buffett's trading activity has been a path to riches for decades. But as we prepare to enter the new year, Wall Street's "Oracle" has given investors 166 billion reasons to be fearful. Buffett has been a persistent net seller of stocks for two years Perhaps the most famous of all Warren Buffett quotes is "Be fearful when others are greedy, and greedy when others are fearful." Even though Warren Buffett has reminded investors not to bet against America throughout the years, he's an unabashed value investor who isn't afraid to sit on his hands and wait for price dislocations to crop up. Based on Buffett's actions over the last two years, through the end of September, he's clearly fearful of what may be to come for Wall Street . Specifically, he and his team have sold more stock than they've purchased for eight consecutive quarters (Oct. 1, 2022 through Sept. 30, 2024): Q4 2022 : $14.64 billion in net-equity sales Q1 2023 : $10.41 billion Q2 2023 : $7.981 billion Q3 2023 : $5.253 billion Q4 2023 : $0.525 billion Q1 2024 : $17.281 billion Q2 2024 : $75.536 billion Q3 2024 : $34.592 billion Collectively, this works out to $166.22 billion in net stocks sales over two years , and it's increased Berkshire Hathaway's cash balance, including U.S. Treasuries, to north of $325 billion. It's certainly not something you'd expect to see from one of Wall Street's most revered long-term optimists. Stocks are historically pricey, and the Oracle of Omaha is struggling to find a good deal During Berkshire Hathaway's annual shareholder meeting in early May, he intimated that some of his recent selling activity may be for tax purposes . With his company sitting on sizable unrealized gains from Apple and Bank of America ( BAC -0.47% ) , and the corporate income tax rate at its lowest level since 1939, he opined that locking in some gains would, in hindsight, be viewed as a smart move by Berkshire's shareholders. But there may be more to this selling than just minimizing Berkshire Hathaway's tax bill. Namely, stocks are historically pricey, and it's becoming increasingly difficult for Buffett to find a good deal. In an interview with Fortune magazine back in 2001, the Oracle of Omaha referred to the market cap-to-gross domestic product (GDP) ratio as "probably the best single measure of where valuations stand at any given moment." This ratio quickly became known on the Street as the "Buffett Indicator" -- and it's been making history of late . Since 1970, the aggregate value of all publicly traded companies divided into U.S. GDP has averaged around 85% (0.85). In October 2024, it crested 200% for the first time ever and hit an all-time high above 209% in December, as measured by dividing the Wilshire 5000 Index into U.S. GDP. Although the Buffett Indicator isn't particularly helpful in determining when downturns will take place in the S&P 500 and other broad-market indexes, it has acted as a warning of eventual downside in the stock market . The Buffett Indicator peaked at 144% prior to the dot-com bubble bursting, 107% before the financial crisis, 166% immediately ahead of the COVID-19 pandemic, and 195% prior to the 2022 bear market taking shape. These events were respectively followed by S&P 500 declines of 49%, 57%, 34%, and 28%, on a peak-to-trough basis. The tea leaves couldn't be clearer that Buffett is locking in gains ahead of 2025 and being fearful when others are being greedy in a historically pricey market. Buffett also has more than 5.5 million reasons for investors to be optimistic Based on Berkshire Hathaway's 13Fs over the previous eight quarters, it's evident that Buffett and his top advisors, Todd Combs and Ted Weschler, aren't finding much in the way of value. However, this doesn't change the Oracle of Omaha's long-term thesis of not betting against America and expecting wonderful businesses to increase in value over time. Even though Buffett's short-term actions may not always line up with the long-term ethos he preaches, the greater than 5,500,000% cumulative gain in his company's Class A shares since he took over as CEO isn't an accident. It's the result of Berkshire's chief staying true to his roots and remaining a value-focused investor who pounces during periods of Wall Street fear and turbulence. Shortly after the financial crisis, Buffett invested $5 billion in Bank of America (BofA) to shore up its balance sheet. While the preferred stock Berkshire received provided a healthy 6% yield ($300 million in annual dividend income), it's the warrants to purchase up to 700 million shares of BofA stock at $7.14 per share that proved far more valuable. When these stock warrants were fully exercised in mid-2017, it instantly made Buffett's company a small fortune. Warren Buffett has been taking advantage of price dislocations like this for decades. Though one may not exist right now, it's just a matter of time before he and his team put some of Berkshire's growing cash hoard to work. To quote the Oracle of Omaha's letter to shareholders in 2009 following the height of the financial crisis, "Big opportunities come infrequently. When it's raining gold, reach for a bucket, not a thimble."
The FDA expanded the indication for setmelanotide (Imcivree) to include children as young as 2 years with syndromic or monogenic obesity due to Bardet-Biedl syndrome or genetically confirmed pro-opiomelanocortin, said maker Rhythm Pharmaceuticals. Among patients with type 2 diabetic nephropathy receiving bremelanotide in the small phase IIb BREAKOUT study, 71% achieved greater than 30% reduction in urine protein to creatinine ratio at 6 months, Palatin Technologies announced. In a draft recommendation, the U.S. Preventive Services Task Force said that older adults should not take vitamin D and calcium supplements for the primary prevention of falls and fractures. Even after surgery, patients with Cushing's syndrome have an altered gut microbiome, "indicating a possible target for additional probiotic interventions to accelerate convergence to a healthy microbiome," authors of a longitudinal analysis concluded. (Journal of... Kristen MonacoKolkata: The heritage clubs of the city are no longer confining themselves to only Christmas or New Year's Eve parties. From culture, food festivals to football, winter menu at clubs encompasses all that Kolkata is known for. Lake Club started the season with an art exhibition, to be followed by theatre and other cultural activities. The convenor of entertainment sub-committee of the club, Dhrubajyoti Bhowmik, said, "We organize a winter festival every year, and this year is no exception. The event is packed with art, music, food, theatre, and performances," he said. This year, participating art groups include, Amra Noychhoy, Society of Contemporary Artists, Calcutta Painters Artistic, Bengal Art Stocks Chander Hat, Open Window, Painters Eighty, Graffiti, and Third Eye. Additionally, 10 stalls will feature folk art. There will be work by Jogen Chowdhury, Suvaprasanna and Samir Aich. Calcutta Club is organising theatre and musical programmes in the last week of Dec. The immediate past president, Abhijit Ghosh, said the play ‘Naathbathi Anathbat' by Shambhu Mitra will be performed by Arpita Ghosh and her team on Dec 26. On Dec 27, there will be a performance of ‘Jara Bristite Bhijhechilo'. On Dec 28, Calcutta Club will organise a performance by the Bangla band Chandrabindoo. Calcutta Rowing Club is host a performance by Bhoomi, titled ‘O Nadi Ray'. There will be a musical night by Vishwa Mohan Bhatt and Tarun Bhattacharya on Jan 25, apart from football adda. "Bengal is incomplete without football. Legends like Gautam Sarkar, Shyam Thapa and Pradip Cho-wdhury will participate in our football adda," said club secretary Chandan Roychowdhury. The International Club is staring celebrations with ‘Tribute to 100 Years of Salil Chowdhury', in which The committee member in charge of cultural activities and entertainment, Aloke Mukherjee, said Saikat Mitra and Shri Radha Bandopadhyay will also perform in this programme while Haimanti Shukla will make a special appearance. There would be a musical night by Vishwa Mohan Bhatt. In Jan, the club will organise a musical programme by reality TV star Anwesha. The Tolly Club is planning a host of cultural activities between Jan 11 and 19, said CEO V Ganapathy. Hindustan Club is organising a musical evening with local star Abhishek Roychowdhury, said club president Rishabh C Kothari. Stay updated with the latest news on Times of India . Don't miss daily games like Crossword , Sudoku , and Mini Crossword .
LOS ANGELES (AP) — LeBron James has been ruled out of the Los Angeles Lakers' game at Minnesota on Friday night due to soreness in his left foot. James will miss his second straight game when the Lakers return from a four-day break to face the Timberwolves, the Lakers announced Thursday. Javascript is required for you to be able to read premium content. Please enable it in your browser settings. Get updates and player profiles ahead of Friday's high school games, plus a recap Saturday with stories, photos, video Frequency: Seasonal Twice a weekWhat's New? Valentina Gomez, a Republican running for Congress in Texas, drew sharp criticism after suggesting undocumented immigrants who commit violent crimes should be publicly executed. In a video shared on X, formerly Twitter , Gomez simulated shooting a migrant, claiming the measure would serve as a deterrent. Her remarks, following a high-profile subway murder in New York City where the suspect is an undocumented immigrant, ignited a firestorm of backlash online. Newsweek contacted Gomez's campaign for comment via phone. The Context Sebastian Zapeta-Calil, a 33-year-old Guatemalan immigrant, was arrested on murder charges after a woman was set on fire and killed on the subway over the weekend. After the gruesome incident made headlines, Gomez, a Colombian-born American political activist and former Missouri Secretary of State candidate, shared a controversial video on X calling for the public execution of undocumented immigrants who commit violent crimes against Americans. While making the proposal, Gomez simulated shooting a migrant. NEW: Texas Congressional candidate Valentina Gomez releases video demonstrating the punishment she wants for illegal aliens who k*ll Americans. "It's that simple: public executions for any illegal that r*pes or k*lls an American." @ValentinaForUSA pic.twitter.com/P0BzoVhaxN The dummy representing an undocumented migrant in the video was seen tied to a chair with their hands duct taped behind their back. Their face was covered with a hood. After shooting the dummy in the back of the head, Gomez walked up to the camera and said, "It's that simple. Public executions for any illegal that rapes or kills an American," framing the act as a form of justice. "They don't deserve deportation," she said to the camera. "They deserve to be ended." What To Know Gomez's political career has been defined by controversy and provocative statements. She launched her 2024 campaign for Missouri Secretary of State with far-right positions that drew significant attention online but resulted in little support from voters. In one video, Gomez jogged through St. Louis's Soulard neighborhood, a historically LGBTQ+ area, saying, "Don't be weak and gay. Stay hard." Another video showed her using a homemade flamethrower to burn LGBTQ+ books and dismissing countries that ban flamethrowers as "weak and gay." Her antics were widely condemned by LGBTQ+ advocates and mainstream politicians but earned praise from other far-right figures, like former Representative Matt Gaetz . X limited visibility on the video after it was posted, citing its rules against violent speech. "My video being restricted & my account getting suspended shows all of you that I am the biggest threat to the establishment because I call it like I see it, I give people hope, and I don't need their money," Gomez wrote after X limited the video's visibility. "Remember, nobody is coming to save us. Stay strapped." Accompanying the post was a video showing the subway murder in New York. In a written statement to Newsweek , Gomez criticized her opponents and suggested Texas Governor Greg Abbott make use of her video at the U.S.-Mexico border. "Governor Abbott should play my video at the border instead of those signs that don't deter anyone. I choose to fight for Texas because Texas needs a warrior who will speak the truth, cook the crooks, and save the children," Gomez said. "How many little girls and women have to be raped and killed before our 'leaders' start doing their jobs? You can't rehabilitate a pedophile, a rapist, or a murderer. Texas representatives in Congress are only good at funding Ukraine, trading stocks, and holding useless hearings and investigations with strongly worded letters—but no real results for the American people," she added. "You don't mess with Texas, and you definitely don't mess with me. I look forward to serving the farmers, families, and veterans of Texas in Congress," she concluded. What People Are Saying Laura Loomer, conservative activist, wrote on X: " I love how @ValentinaForUSA rolled up with her handgun, Pearl earrings and Versace sunglasses with a FAFO message for illegal aliens." Carlos Montero, Argentinian journalist and former CNN anchor, wrote on X: "I think @ValentinaForUSA forgot about the Christmas spirit." Jim Stewartson, a liberal podcaster, wrote on X: " There was a time this sort of thing was frowned up on in America." What Happens Next The debate surrounding Gomez's comments is likely to continue. While her proposal is unlikely to gain traction in legislative circles, it has also raised questions about the boundaries of acceptable political discourse on policy discussions related to immigration and crime.
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OKLAHOMA CITY — A proposal to open Oklahoma primaries is drawing criticism. Earlier this week, supporters announced State Question 835 that seeks to obtain 172,993 signatures to get the issue on the November 2026 ballot. Under the proposal, Oklahoma primaries would be open to all voters with the top two vote getters advancing to the general election. Supporters said they expect a challenge to the measure. Gov. Kevin Stitt on social media voiced his opposition. “Oklahomans made decisions at the polls that these third party groups don’t like – so now they want to upend the way we run our elections,” Stitt said. “Open primaries are a hard no in Oklahoma.” Likewise, Lt. Gov Matt Pinnell, former Oklahoma Republican Party chairman, opposes the proposal. “At best, the push to mandate open primaries is a solution in search of a problem, and at worst, it is a thinly veiled attempt to weaken Republican voters in choosing the nominees to represent our party,” Pinnell said. “Oklahoma is a conservative state, and Republicans hold all the statewide and federally elected positions and super majorities in the Legislature for a simple reason: our values and principles represent the will of our state voters.” But not all Republicans have panned the idea. Oklahoma City Mayor David Holt, a former Republican state senator, embraced it. He said the system in which a mayor is elected allows all residents to vote. “Our voters get to see all the candidates and our candidates have to face all voters,” Holt said. “As a result, our leadership delivers unity and consensus outcomes that are clearly moving us forward.” The state question is being backed by Oklahoma United, a nonpartisan organization that says the change will increase voter participation, reduce polarization and force candidates to be responsive to all voters. It will also benefit independent voters, who can’t vote in Republican or Libertarian primaries. Democrats currently allow independents to vote in their primaries. The idea is not new. In 2017, the Oklahoma Academy recommended a top-two election system. Its report said a top-two system could increase turnout, reduce partisanship and “eliminate fringe special interest involvement in campaigns because candidates would be forced to respond to more moderate, general voters rather than play to the extremes of either party.” The Oklahoma Academy is a nonpartisan group that works to educate Oklahomans about public policy. Republican political consultant Fount Holland said he doubted Oklahoma voters would approve the proposal should it make the ballot. “At the end of the day, it is about moderating the Republican primary,” Holland said. He said the Republican Party takes things to the extreme, which is not the best way to govern. Holland said no one enters the Republican primary as a moderate or very few can survive campaigning as a moderate. “They might be moderate, but they don’t campaign that way,” Holland said. He said he tells his clients to run to win. If approved, the measure would be advantageous to Democrats or people who want a more moderate group of elected officials, Holland said. Republican Superintendent Ryan Walters is considered by many to be ultra-conservative, while his predecessor Joy Hofmeister was considered a moderate member of the GOP, said Holland, who worked on her two successful races for superintendent. Walters has focussed on putting Bibles in the classroom and removing some books from schools, while Hofmeister prioritized across-the-board teacher pay increases and boosting counseling services in schools. Hofmeister ultimately switched parties and made an unsuccessful run as a Democrat for governor. “If you hate politics the way they are, then you need to be on our team, because we want to change it and we want to make it better,” said Margaret Kobos, Oklahoma United CEO and Founder. She was asked about the partisan reaction to the proposal. She said it misses the point because the issue is about people and not political parties. Rep. Andy Fugate, D-Del City, supports the measure, saying it takes power away from the political parties and gives it to the people. “Every voter. Every election,” he said. “That is the way democracy is supposed to work.”Where Will Robinhood Markets' Stock Be in 3 Years?
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Punjab chief minister Bhagwant Mann on Tuesday slammed the Prime Minister Narendra Modi-led Union government for meting out ‘step-motherly treatment to the farmers by not giving them an opportunity to air their genuine demands.’ In a post on X, Mann said the central government should give up its ‘stubbornness’ and open the way for talks with the farmer organisations. “If Modi ji can stop the war between Russia and Ukraine, then can’t he talk to the farmers sitting 200 kilometres away (from Delhi)? What time are you waiting for?” Mann said in a post. Later in a statement, Mann added that the Union government has been ‘blatantly’ ignoring the genuine demands of the farmers of the country which is highly deplorable. Farmers led by Samyukta Kisan Morcha (Non-Political) and Kisan Mazdoor Morcha have been camping at Shambhu and Khanauri border points between Punjab and Haryana since February 13 after their march to Delhi was stopped by security forces. Veteran farmer leader Jagjit Singh Dallewal has been on a hunger strike at the Khanauri border since November 26 and his condition is said to be ‘critical’. The chief minister reminded the PM that when the country was facing a serious crisis of food production the hardworking and resilient farmers of the state had made the country self-reliant in grains. “It is unfortunate that the prime minister is more worried about emerging as ‘global leader’ by intervening in international affairs rather than resolving the issues faced by the countrymen,” the AAP leader said. He said that the Centre should not wait for any special moment to talk to the farmers, “rather it should embrace the farmers and redress their grievances”. “It is strange that the Union government is not ready to talk to farmers sitting 200 kilometres away from the national capital,” he further said in the statement. Mann said it is the need of the hour that the issues of the farmers are addressed at the earliest in the larger public interest. On December 19 too, Mann urged the Centre to hold talks with the protesting farmers. He had said any issue could be resolved through dialogue.The story of Jesus did not begin with his birth in Bethlehem, but rather with the Easter experience. Jesus was put to death on Saturday (Sabath) evening. On Sunday morning (the first day of the week), the disciples went to the tomb to anoint Jesus’ body according to the Jewish custom. However, they did not find his body. An angel told them, ‘He is not here; he has risen. Remember what he told you when he was still in Galilee: that the Son of man was destined to be handed over into the power of sinful men and be crucified, and rise again on the third day.’ Jesus’ resurrection was not only about the resuscitation of his physical body but it was also about how his Spirit now rises and lives in the lives of his disciples and the early Christian community. The early Christian community experienced in Jesus liberation, life and hope. They experienced Jesus as the Christ, the anointed one, the messiah, and Son of God. In Jesus they found life that was worth living and dying for. The Easter experience charged them with a mission to proclaim the good news of Jesus Christ. Thus the Easter experience saw the beginnings of the Jesus story. From the empty tomb to the manger The story of Jesus was first proclaimed orally. The message was simply that Jesus who was crucified and died is now risen. He is the Messiah, the Christ, the Son of God. As the authors of the four gospels, Mathew, Mark, Luke and John began to write about the life, teachings, and his ministry they began to include the earlier parts of the life, particularly his ancestral origins and birth. Only Mathew and Luke’s Gospels record the story of the birth of Jesus and they are the primary sources of the story of the birth of Jesus. Mathew’s gospel Mathew presents Jesus’ genealogy making him a descendant of Abraham and David. The genealogy locates Jesus in the Jewish Salvation history. As expected of a patriarchal society, Mathew lists the men who were part Jesus’ genealogy. Surprising, the genealogy records four women (Tamar, Rahab, Ruth, Bathsheba) who were known to be sexually scandalous. These women also played an important role in Jesus’ genealogy and God’s plan. Mary, the mother of Jesus also gave birth in an extraordinary circumstance. The inclusion of these women shows that God works even in the crooked and messy lines of human history. The genealogy presentation format changes when Mathew introduces Joseph. Rather than introducing Joseph as the father of Jesus, Mathew introduces Joseph as the husband of Mary of whom Jesus Christ-the Messiah was born. Joseph is of the house of David. In Mathew’s gospel, the angel appears to Joseph instructing him to take Mary as his wife. Mathew makes an important point about Jesus’ identity, namely that he is Son of David as well as Son of God. Luke’s gospel Luke does not record the genealogy of Jesus; instead, he begins with the Angel appearing to Zechariah to announce the birth of John the Baptist. Zechariah and his wife Elizabeth are in their old age and they longed to have a child. John’s birth follows the story of some old couples in the Old Testament who conceived a child in their old age. In the Book of Genesis God promises to Abraham and Sarah that they will have child. In the Book of the Prophets (1 Samuel) tells the story of another old couple Elkanah and Hannah who give birth to Samuel. The two books, Genesis and the Prophets represent the Jewish bible. The birth of John prepares the time of Christ. Birth of John links the three era in Judeo-Christian faith: Law, Prophets, and the time of Jesus. The four gospels all write about John the Baptist because he has an important role in God’s plan. John’s gospel John’s gospel totally omitted the story of the birth of Jesus. Instead, he moves the Jesus story beyond the Judaism history of salvation to include the history of creation. “In the beginning with was the Word: The Word was with God and the Word was God. He was with God in the beginning.” John locates Jesus Christ with God before creation came into being. Jesus the Christ, the Word was in the beginning with God. Jesus the Christ-Word existed before the Jesus of Nazareth. Message of the story of the birth of Jesus The four gospels have a common intention, to show the relevancy of Jesus to the whole of world history. God is at work from the beginning of creation; Jewish salvation history; the time of Jesus and the future. Christmas therefore remembers, celebrates and reminds us that God has been working right from the beginning of the universe, in human history and will guide the future through Jesus Christ. Christmas calls us to work with God for liberation, justice, peace and love. Christmas calls us to read the signs of the times and to interpret them in the light of the gospels. Today Fiji faces challenges from drugs, past and present political traumas, domestic violence, impacts of climate change and globalisation and other social issues. May this Christmas inspire us to reflect and participate in God’s plan, even in the darkest moments of our history. May you have the peace and joy of Christmas Father Christmas poses for a photo with children outs TappooCity in Suva. Picture: ANASEINI DIMATE Families enjoys the sight of the Christmas tree at Damodar City in Suva. Picture: LITIA RATOVA
Transforming Learning for Pakistani Youth In our rapidly changing world, technology plays a crucial role in transforming education. It is altering not only the methods teachers employ but also the ways in which students absorb information. Furthermore, technology is creating new opportunities while tackling persistent issues within the educational landscape. In Pakistan, the integration of digital learning tools, online classes, and educational applications has led to notable improvements, enhancing the learning experience for young students by making it more engaging, adaptable and accessible. Visualize a classroom where interactive whiteboards take the place of traditional blackboards, and students utilize educational software and e-books instead of cumbersome printed materials. This trend is increasing gradually in many Pakistani institutions. Digital learning resources have revolutionized conventional teaching approaches, allowing educators to design more captivating and participatory lessons. The number of online learning platforms has surged, offering a vast array of resources that support in-person teaching. These platforms enable learners to progress at their own pace and revisit challenging topics whenever necessary. The engaging and visual characteristics of these tools not only capture students’ interest but also enhance their comprehension of the subject matter. In remote or marginalized areas, where access to quality education has historically been limited, digital solutions are making a significant impact. Initiatives like ‘Digital Pakistan’ strive to close the education gap by providing internet connectivity and digital devices to students, fostering a more inclusive and fair learning environment. The covid-19 pandemic marked a pivotal moment for education globally and specifically in Pakistan. As schools and universities temporarily closed, online classes became the standard, allowing students to continue their education without disruption. Platforms such as Zoom, Microsoft Teams, and Google Classroom emerged as vital resources for both educators and learners. Online education offers a degree of flexibility that traditional classrooms cannot provide. Students can attend lectures from their homes, access recorded classes whenever they wish, and engage in discussions through virtual platforms. This flexibility is especially advantageous for learners with additional commitments, such as part-time employment or family responsibilities. The transition to online learning has also encouraged innovative teaching strategies. Flipped classrooms, where students watch lecture videos at home and participate in interactive sessions during class, have become increasingly popular. This method promotes active learning and critical analysis, motivating students to take ownership of their educational journey. In addition, online education has granted Pakistani students the opportunity to enroll in courses and connect with instructors from prestigious universities worldwide, broadening their horizons and exposing them to high-quality materials. With the expanding use of smartphones and mobile internet, educational applications have gained traction as valuable learning tools. These applications cater to various educational needs and personalize the learning experience. In Pakistan, apps like Sabaq, Edkasa, and Noon Academy have become widely adopted. These applications provide interactive lessons, practice quizzes, and instant feedback, making the learning process enjoyable and efficient. Elements of gamification, such as rewards and leaderboards, encourage students to remain involved and accomplish their learning objectives. Educational applications also serve as useful resources for parents and teachers. Parents can track their children’s progress and offer additional support when required, while educators can utilize these apps to assign homework, conduct assessments, and customize their teaching based on individual student requirements. While technology offers many advantages in education, there are challenges that must be tackled to ensure its effective and widespread implementation. A significant issue is the digital divide, which denotes the disparity between individuals who have access to technology and those who lack it. In Pakistan, this disparity is especially evident in rural and underprivileged regions, where internet connectivity and access to digital devices are scarce. To close this divide, collaboration between the government and the private sector is essential to improve infrastructure, enhance internet connectivity, and make digital devices affordable for students. One of the urgent challenges in Pakistan is to guide the youth towards the positive and educational uses of the internet. The digital era presents vast opportunities for learning and skill acquisition, yet many young individuals are unaware of how to tap into this potential effectively. Distractions from social media, misinformation, and unproductive usage often overshadow the educational advantages of the internet. To counter this, digital literacy programs are needed to instruct students on how to access reliable resources, utilize online learning platforms, and develop marketable skills. Schools, parents, and policymakers must work together to offer training sessions, promote awareness initiatives, and establish secure online environments, ensuring that the internet serves as a tool for empowerment and advancement rather than as a distraction. Another significant challenge is the training of teachers. Although digital tools can enhance teaching, their success depends on how well educators can incorporate these tools into their teaching strategies. Professional development initiatives that focus on digital pedagogy and the use of technology in the classroom are vital for empowering teachers and optimizing the benefits of digital learning. The incorporation of technology in education has undeniably changed the learning experience for Pakistani youth. Digital learning resources, online classes, and educational applications have rendered education more accessible, engaging, and tailored to individual needs. As Pakistan continues to adopt technological advancements, addressing challenges such as digital literacy, infrastructure, and teacher training is fundamental to ensure that every student can reap the benefits of these innovations. By leveraging technology, Pakistan can realize the full potential of its youth, preparing them for the challenges and opportunities of the 21st century. The prospects for education in Pakistan are promising, and technology will be crucial in shaping its future. With ongoing investment and innovation, the country can establish an inclusive and vibrant educational environment that enables every student to thrive. Save my name, email, and website in this browser for the next time I comment. Δ document.getElementById( "ak_js_1" ).setAttribute( "value", ( new Date() ).getTime() );Champions League GlanceEven though Christmas is just hours away, shoppers in Brockville, Ont. went to find some last-minute gifts on Tuesday. Except for David Apps, who finished his shopping in early October. "I went early. Get it done," he said Apps was hoping to avoid large crowds who would pick the shelves clean, opting for a stress-free shopping experience in the fall. He spent his Christmas Eve buying groceries, thankful he wasn't still checking off his list. "They're going to scramble around and run around with a lot of stress and hopefully find something that they want, but probably end up with something that they don't want," he explained. Despite Apps' concerns, others who were still buying gifts Tuesday were not bothered by potentially large crowds and the pressure of buying them at the last minute. "It doesn't bother me whatsoever," said Chris Triemstra, who was picking up little gifts at Canadian Tire. "As long as it's done. And this is just extra. So, it's not like it's, 'Oh, if I didn't get this, I'm in trouble' type deal." On the other hand, Shawn Hewitt still wasn't sure exactly what gift he was going to buy for his wife - but wasn't stressed about it, saying it's tradition to buy the gifts on Christmas Eve. "Definitely a last-minute shopper," he explained. "I only have my wife to buy for. She does all the shopping for the grandkids and the kids and stuff. She's a big shopper, so I'm lucky there, but I always leave it for the last day, you know?" 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 PART 2 | Ottawa mayor speaks on Sprung structures, challenges facing the city in year-end interview OPP and Ottawa firefighters help remove vehicle wedged into Highway 417 overpass Ottawa driver gets double licence suspension after allegedly going 3 times the speed limit Last minute shoppers in Ottawa wrap up Christmas wish lists Shoppers in Brockville, Ont. enjoying stress-free last-minute shopping What's open and closed in Ottawa over the holidays Ottawa welcomes new Team Canada fans with citizenship ceremony ahead of the World Juniors Five vehicles stolen while idling in Gatineau, Que. in recent weeks CTVNews.ca Top Stories 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.' 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. Indigenous family faced discrimination in North Bay, Ont., when they were kicked off transit bus Ontario's Human Rights Tribunal has awarded members of an Indigenous family in North Bay $15,000 each after it ruled they were victims of discrimination. OPP and Ottawa firefighters help remove vehicle wedged into Highway 417 overpass Ottawa firefighters and local Ontario Provincial Police officers were called to a bizarre scene Tuesday morning along Highway 417, where a driver managed to wedge his vehicle under an overpass. On Christmas Eve, Pope Francis appeals for courage to better the world Pope Francis said the story of Jesus' birth as a poor carpenter's son should instill hope that all people can make an impact on the world, as the pontiff on Tuesday led the world's Roman Catholics into Christmas. Read Trudeau's Christmas message Prime Minister Justin Trudeau issued his Christmas message on Tuesday. Here is his message in full. Ontario First Nation challenging selection of underground nuclear waste site in court A First Nation in northern Ontario is challenging the selection of a nearby region as the site of a deep geological repository that will hold Canada's nuclear waste, arguing in a court filing that it should have had a say in the matter as the site falls "squarely" within its territory. Dismiss Trump taunts, expert says after 'churlish' social media posts about Canada U.S. president-elect Donald Trump and those in his corner continue to send out strong messages about Canada. Two arrested in Egypt after attempting to steal hundreds of ancient artifacts from the bottom of the sea Egyptian authorities have arrested two men for attempting to steal hundreds of ancient artifacts from the bottom of the sea, the country’s interior ministry said in a Monday statement. Atlantic Two deaths in Truro ruled homicides: RCMP Police in Nova Scotia are investigating after two deaths in Truro, N.S., over the weekend have been ruled homicides. 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 Scotch whisky is for sale in downtown Moncton, N.B., with a price tag reading $55,000. 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. Premiers urge Trudeau to extend deadline for charitable donations after postal strike Canada’s premiers are calling on the federal government to extend the deadline for claiming charitable donations on tax returns through to the end of February. Police seek six suspects after Markham financial institution and customers robbed at gunpoint The York Regional Police (YRP) Hold-Up Unit is on the hunt for six suspects who robbed a financial institution and its customers at gunpoint in Markham on Monday. 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. Union blasts comments by Quebec minister mulling law to intervene to end strikes Canada's largest union is denouncing a statement by Quebec's labour minister, who suggested he might try to bring in legislation to give the province more power to end labour disputes. As governments try to solve housing crisis, modular homes emerge as potential solution With all three levels of governments looking to find ways to build more housing and faster, one Quebec builder says it has the solution. Northern Ontario Indigenous family faced discrimination in North Bay, Ont., when they were kicked off transit bus Ontario's Human Rights Tribunal has awarded members of an Indigenous family in North Bay $15,000 each after it ruled they were victims of discrimination. 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. Dismiss Trump taunts, expert says after 'churlish' social media posts about Canada U.S. president-elect Donald Trump and those in his corner continue to send out strong messages about Canada. Windsor Been to Detroit lately? Keep an eye out for these scam parking invoices The City of Detroit has issued a warning to motorists that scam texts are circulating asking for payment for unpaid parking invoices from the city. VIDEO | From a repaired stuffed animal to an ATV, shoppers reveal the best gift they have ever received With Christmas just hours away, the search for the perfect gift is on at stores and malls across the country. 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. London Palace Theatre boarded up over the holidays due to recent damage A break in, theft, and continued property damage has led to the boarding up of the Palace Theatre over the Christmas holidays. Knights stars ready to help Canada chase gold at World Juniors Three London Knights are on the roster, including Easton Cowan, who scored a hat-trick in Canada’s first exhibition game. London fire responds to Wellington Road collision, contains fuel leak London Fire Department was on the scene of a two vehicle collision involving a delivery truck on Tuesday morning. Kitchener Why holiday shopping may feel a little different this year At around 11 a.m. Tuesday at Kitchener’s Fairview Park Mall, there were plenty of parking spots available. It’s a sign that maybe this year, the rush for last minute gifts is no more. What’s open and what’s closed over the holidays A detailed guide to what’s open and closed between Dec. 24 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. Barrie Here's when Santa is coming down your chimney, live tracking 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. Help this missing pup make it home for Christmas The Ontario SPCA in Barrie needs your help bringing this handsome pup home to his family before Christmas. Here's where you can retire your spruce after the holiday season If you got a retired spruce that you’d like to put to rest after the holidays, here are a few options you may want to consider. 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. Person in critical condition after downtown Calgary fire A person was sent to hospital in life-threatening condition after a fire in downtown Calgary on Tuesday morning. Skier seriously injured in avalanche near Revelstoke, B.C. A skier was seriously injured after an avalanche near Revelstoke, B.C., over the weekend. Edmonton Edmonton apartment building boarded up after evacuation order from the city An Edmonton apartment building that was evacuated for safety reasons on Monday now sits boarded up. 1 charged after van stolen from Edmonton's Food Bank on Monday One person has been arrested after a van was stolen from Edmonton's Food Bank on Monday. Homelessness, rising property taxes major matters for Edmonton's mayor in 2024 Amarjeet Sohi looked back on the calendar year that's soon coming to a close with CTV News Edmonton, detailing recent challenges he and city council faced – typical year-end matters such as property taxes and finances – plus ongoing questions and efforts surrounding homelessness. 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. A separate Ukrainian Christmas may be a thing of the past There might be more households than usual celebrating this Christmas Eve, as many Ukrainians around the world are opting to abandon the orthodox calendar. Saskatoon '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. A separate Ukrainian Christmas may be a thing of the past There might be more households than usual celebrating this Christmas Eve, as many Ukrainians around the world are opting to abandon the orthodox calendar. Saskatoon-born comedian Brendan Flaherty returns 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 Woman struck by vehicle dies in Burnaby, B.C. A 24-year-old woman who was struck by a vehicle last week in Burnaby, B.C., has died. Ripe avalanche conditions for parts of B.C. expected to persist this week A forecaster says ripe avalanche conditions are expected to persist across much of British Columbia for the rest of the week. BREAKING | BC Ferries cancels some Christmas Day sailings, says many others 'at risk' due to weather The stormy weather in the forecast for B.C.'s South Coast could make getting around on Christmas Day challenging for some holiday travellers. Vancouver Island Ripe avalanche conditions for parts of B.C. expected to persist this week A forecaster says ripe avalanche conditions are expected to persist across much of British Columbia for the rest of the week. Woman struck by vehicle dies in Burnaby, B.C. A 24-year-old woman who was struck by a vehicle last week in Burnaby, B.C., has died. Homicide victim identified as 36-year-old man from Langley, B.C. Homicide investigators are identifying the victim of a suspected murder last year in Langley, B.C. Kelowna Forfeited Hells Angels clubhouse in Kelowna, B.C., sold to the city A former Hells Angels clubhouse that was seized by the British Columbia government in 2023 after years of fighting in court has been sold to the City of Kelowna. Death of woman found in Kelowna's Waterfront Park in June deemed 'non-criminal in nature': RCMP Police in Kelowna say a death they began investigating back in June has now been confirmed as "non-criminal in nature." B.C. man sentenced for 'execution-style' murder of bystander in drug trade conflict A B.C. man convicted of the "intentional and ruthless killing of a bystander" while acting as an enforcer in the drug trade has been sentenced for a second time in the slaying. Stay Connected
The biggest Pinocchios of 2024
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He is not yet in power but President-elect Donald Trump rattled much of the world with an off-hours warning of stiff tariffs on close allies and China — a loud hint that Trump-style government by social media post is coming back. With word of these levies against goods imported from Mexico, Canada and China, Trump sent auto industry stocks plummeting, raised fears for global supply chains and unnerved the world’s major economies. For Washington-watchers with memories of the Republican’s first term, the impromptu policy volley on Monday evening foreshadowed a second term of startling announcements of all manner, fired off at all hours of the day from his smartphone. “Donald Trump is never going to change much of anything,” said Larry Sabato, a leading US political scientist and director of the University of Virginia’s Center for Politics. “You can expect in the second term pretty much what he showed us about himself and his methods in the first term. Social media announcements of policy, hirings and firings will continue.” The first of Trump’s tariff announcements — a 25 percent levy on everything coming in from Mexico and Canada — came amid an angry rebuke of lax border security at 6:45 pm on Truth Social, Trump’s own platform. The United States is bound by agreements on the movement of goods and services brokered by Trump in a free trade treaty with both nations during his first term. But Trump warned that the new levy would “remain in effect until such time as Drugs, in particular Fentanyl, and all Illegal Aliens stop this Invasion of our Country” — sowing panic from Ottawa to Mexico City. Seconds later, another message from the incoming commander-in-chief turned the focus on Chinese imports, which he said would be hit with “an additional 10% Tariff, above any additional Tariffs.” The consequences were immediate. Almost every major US automaker operates plants in Mexico, and shares in General Motors and Stellantis — which produce pickup trucks in America’s southern neighbor — plummeted. Canada, China and Mexico protested, while Germany called on its European partners to prepare for Trump to impose hefty tariffs on their exports and stick together to combat such measures. – Framing the debate – The tumult recalls Trump’s first term, when journalists, business leaders and politicians at home and abroad would scan their phones for the latest pronouncements, often long after they had left the office or over breakfast. During his first four years in the Oval Office, the tweet — in those days his newsy posts were almost exclusively limited to Twitter, now known as X — became the quasi-official gazette for administration policy. The public learned of the president-elect’s 2020 Covid-19 diagnosis via an early-hours post, and when Iranian Revolutionary Guards commander Qasem Soleimani was assassinated on Trump’s order, the Republican confirmed the kill by tweeting a US flag. The public and media learned of numerous other decisions big and small by the same source, from the introduction of customs duties to the dismissal of cabinet secretaries. It is not a communication method that has been favored by any previous US administration and runs counter to the policies and practices of most governments around the world. Throughout his third White House campaign, and with every twist and turn in his various entanglements with the justice system, Trump has poured his heart out on Truth Social, an app he turned to during his 20-month ban from Twitter. In recent days, the mercurial Republican has even named his attorney general secretaries of justice and health via announcements on the network. “He sees social media as a tool to shape and direct the national conversation and will do so again,” said political scientist Julian Zelizer, a Princeton University professor. With 2,400 staff representing 100 different nationalities, AFP covers the world as a leading global news agency. AFP provides fast, comprehensive and verified coverage of the issues affecting our daily lives.Washington State launched a “Domestic Violent Extremism and Mass Violence Task Force” spearheaded by the Attorney General’s (AG) Office — and its first meeting is Friday. The AG’s Office was granted $247,000 in the state’s 2024 budget to create a “public health” approach for tackling “extremism and mass violence,” according to Washington State Senate Bill (SB) 5950, which became effective in March. Washington’s Attorney General is Bob Ferguson , and he won his bid to be the state’s next governor . The money awarded to the AG’s office is for the 2025 fiscal year. The legislation states that the AG must work with the department of health to appoint at least 10 people to the task force. (RELATED: Washington State Enacts Law Forcing K-12 Schools To Teach LGBTQ History) The members include community organizations, law enforcement groups and “public health and nonprofit organizations” that combat the effects of mass violence and extremism, according to the bill. 🚨WA: Ferguson got his “domestic violent extremism” task force through the 2024 budget passed by #waleg The Attorney General’s office was awarded $247,000 in the 2024 budget to create a task force to devise a statewide approach to combating political extremism and mass violence.... pic.twitter.com/2nvMI0ZNwF — Julie “Florida Woman” Barrett (@juliecbarrett) November 20, 2024 After the task force’s first meeting in November it will send a preliminary report to the governor and certain legislative committees by June in addition to a “final report” by December 2026. The latter report must contain recommendations for creating a “comprehensive framework.” The Daily Caller reached out to the AG’s office for comment and information on the task force’s members but has not heard back. The task force is similar to an outline in a 2023 proposal. The bill, HB 1333, would have created a commission consisting of members from various minority groups. The original text wanted the task force to include representatives from the Anti-Defamation League (ADL), the American Civil Liberties Union (ACLU), the FBI and the Department of Homeland Security (DHS). (RELATED: Blue State Doled Out Over $330 Million From COVID Funds To Illegal Immigrants) However, the ACLU representative was removed via a committee amendment, according to Clark County Today . HB 1333 anyone? https://t.co/gDxVxDE9sL — Washington State Political Watch (@WApolwatch) September 18, 2023 The bill was in response to a 2022 report on domestic terrorism from Ferguson’s office. The first recommendation of the report was to create a commission designed to respond to DVE (domestic violent extremism) using a public health model. The public health model focuses on addressing the roots of “radicalization,” addressing its impacts and deradicalizing “extremist groups,” the document reads. “Secondary prevention refers to efforts to mitigate the impacts of already radicalized people and groups, primarily through surveillance, monitoring, arrest, interruption of plots, barricading of doors, hardening of soft targets, etc.,” the study explains. (RELATED: ‘Bomb Cyclone’ Tears Across Northwest, Killing Two And Triggering Power Outages) Washington will be the first state in the country to implement a public health approach to address DVE, according to the report. Dare to disagree with the Government? Democrats want to set up a commission to investigate you. HB 1333 is a direct assault on free speech and a major abuse of power. Comment against this bill here: https://t.co/6Z8KlkHB9d — Washington State GOP (@WAGOP) January 25, 2023 The report is similar to President Biden’s 2021 “National Strategy for Countering Domestic Terrorism,” citing the intelligence community’s assessment that domestic violent extremists (DVEs) threatened homeland security. The document claimed developments including “narratives of fraud” and “conditions related to the COVID-19 pandemic” would likely result in violence. The task force is not the only step Washington has taken to address “extremism.” The state is also rolling out a “hate crime hotline” in three counties, and it has established an advisory committee on “hate crimes and bias incidents.” The Task Force is meeting on Nov. 22 and people can watch the meeting via Zoom or in person to give their input.
DAKAR, Senegal (AP) — Niger’s ruling junta suspended the BBC for three months over the broadcaster’s coverage of an extremist attack that allegedly killed dozens of Nigerien soldiers and civilians, authorities said Thursday. “BBC broadcasts false information aimed at destabilizing social calm and undermining the troops’ morale,” communications minister Raliou Sidi Mohamed said in letters to radio stations that rebroadcast BBC content. Mohamed asked the stations to suspend BBC’s programs “with immediate effect.” The BBC said it had no comment on the suspension. Popular BBC programs, including those in Hausa — the most-spoken language in Niger — are broadcast in the Central African country through local radio partners to reach a large audience across the region. The British broadcaster had reported on its website in Hausa on Wednesday that gunmen had killed more than 90 Nigerien soldiers and more than 40 civilians in two villages near the border with Burkina Faso. The French broadcaster Radio France International, also known as RFI, also reported on the attack, calling it a jihadi attack and citing the same death toll. Niger’s authorities denied that an attack happened in the area in a statement read on state television and said it would file a complain against RFI for “incitement to genocide.” Niger, along with its neighbors Burkina Faso and Mali, has for over a decade battled an insurgency fought by jihadi groups, including some allied with al-Qaida and the Islamic State group. Following military coups in all three nations in recent years, the ruling juntas have expelled French forces and turned to Russia’s mercenary units for security assistance. But the has worsened since the juntas took power, analysts say, with a record number of attacks and civilians killed both by Islamic militants and government forces. Meanwhile, the ruling juntas have . Earlier this year, Malian authorities from reporting on the activities of political parties and associations. Burkina Faso radio stations for their coverage of a mass killing of civilians carried out by the country’s armed forces. In August 2023, Niger banned French broadcasters France 24 and RFI, a month after its military rulers took power in a coup. “Generally speaking, the three juntas censor the media as soon as the security situation in the country is addressed in an unpleasant manner or when abuses are revealed,” Sadibou Marong, head of the sub-Saharan Africa office of Reporters Without Borders, told The Associated Press in September. “Finding reliable and neutral information on government activities has become extremely complex, as has covering security situation in these countries,” Marong added.An Absurd play in Parliament: Qualifications versus education
Originally appeared on E! Online Kristin Cavallari is kissing and telling about her experience dating Morgan Wallen. "The Hills" alum shared NSFW details about her past romance with the country star, more than a month after seemingly confirming they had at one point been involved. "He's a great f--- buddy," Cavallari said on the Dec. 29 episode of Bunnie XO's "Dumb Blonde" podcast. "He was good in bed." Wallen, 31, has not commented on the "Very Cavallari" star's remarks. Cavallari also shared details about her first date with the "Love Somebody" singer, who, she added, is a "good guy" with a "big heart." "The first date that we went on, he was a true gentleman," the 37-year-old told Bunnie, "and he was like, 'I'll pick you up, I'll pick the place,' like, just f---ing handled business." Cavallari, who shares children Camden, 12, Jaxon, 10, and Saylor, 8 with ex-husband Jay Cutler , said Wallen did indeed pick her up and met her kids before they went out. "My kids were so excited," Cavallari said. "It was so cute." READ Kristin Cavallari Admits She's in Her "Villain Era" After Dating Confessions She said that Wallen got the two a private room at the venue they visited, without naming it, and that they were accompanied by his bodyguard. The singer later dropped her off, she said. But the date did not end there. "He kissed me in the rain," she said, "and it was the sweetest thing." CAvallari did not specify when the date occurred or how long their romance lasted. She also said she has not spoken to him in "probably a year." "But," she added, "I have nothing but good things to say about him." In November, more than a month after confirming her breakup from Montana Boyz TikToker Mark Estes and amid romance rumors about her and Wallen, Cavallari seemingly admitted that she had dated the 2025 Grammy nominee . In a video posted on her social media, she and BFF Justin Anderson took part in a viral trend in which people call out truths about one another. In the clip, Cavallari is seen jogging as her friend is heard saying, "Suspect let Morgan Wallen hurt her feelings, and she kept going back." She bursts out laughing and covers her mouth in response. On Bunnie's podcast, Cavallari offered some context into the claim. "God, I'm so sorry, Morgan. He didn't hurt my feelings," she began. "I'll be honest with you — Morgan was the first guy in my entire f---ing like that wasn't just completely enamored with me. And I was like, 'What in the f--- is going on?' It really threw me." The "Uncommon James" founder added, "I love having the upper hand and I feel like with him, I didn't have the upper hand. The only time in my life. So it really f---ed with me."Barclays PLC Acquires 100,498 Shares of Wave Life Sciences Ltd. (NASDAQ:WVE)