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'Fighter for global democracy': Guam joins world in mourning former President Jimmy Carter's deathBlues supporters also sang the name of head coach Maresca during the closing stages of an emphatic success sealed by goals from Axel Disasi, Christopher Nkunku, Noni Madueke, Cole Palmer and substitute Jadon Sancho. Bottom club Southampton briefly levelled through Joe Aribo but were a man down from the 39th minute after captain Jack Stephens was sent off for pulling the hair of Marc Cucurella. Chelsea, who have endured an underwhelming period since Todd Boehly’s consortium bought the club in 2022, climbed above Arsenal and into second place on goal difference, seven points behind leaders Liverpool. “It was a very good feeling, especially because you can see that they are happy, that is our target,” Maresca said of the atmosphere in the away end. “We work every day to keep them happy and tonight was a very good feeling, especially the one that they can see that Chelsea’s back. This is an important thing.” Maresca rotated his squad in Hampshire, making seven changes following Sunday’s impressive 3-0 win over Aston Villa. Following a sloppy start, his side, who stretched their unbeaten run to six top-flight games, could easily have won by more as they hit the woodwork three times, in addition to squandering a host of chances. “I’m very happy with the five we scored,” said the Italian. “I’m not happy with the first 15, 20 minutes, where we struggled. The reason why we struggled is because we prepared the game to press them man to man and the first 15, 20 minutes we were not pressing them man to man. “After 15, 20 minutes we adjust that and the game was much better. For sure we could score more but five goals they are enough.” Southampton manager Russell Martin rued a costly “moment of madness” from skipper Stephens. The defender’s ridiculous red card was the headline mistake of a catalogue of errors from the beleaguered south-coast club as they slipped seven points from safety following an 11th defeat of a dismal season. “I don’t think anyone will be as disappointed as Jack,” Martin said of Stephens, who was sent off for the second time this term after tugging the curls of Cucurella as Saints prepared to take a corner. “I haven’t got to sit down and talk with him about that at all. He will be hurt more than anyone and it’s changed the game for us tonight, which is disappointing. “I think they have to describe it as violent conduct; it’s not violent really but there’s no other explanation for that really. It’s a moment of madness that’s really cost us and Jack.” Southampton repeatedly invited pressure with their risky attempts to play out from defence, with goalkeeper Joe Lumley gifting Chelsea their second goal, scored by Nkunku. While Saints were booed off at full-time, Martin, who was missing a host of key players due to injuries and suspensions, praised the effort of his depleted team. “When they see such a big scoreline and a couple of the goals we concede, I understand it (the jeers),” he said. “It’s football, it’s emotive, people feel so much about it, it’s why it’s such a special sport in this country and so big. “I understand it but I feel really proud of the players tonight, some of the football we played at 11 v 11 was amazing. “For an hour with 10 men we’ve dug in so deep, there were some big performances. I’m proud of them for that and I’m grateful for that because that’s not easy in that circumstance.”
American Airlines Resumes Flights After Technical GlitchSrinagar, Dec 24 (PTI) Showcasing innovation, creativity and entrepreneurial spirit, over 200 students from Jammu and Kashmir Tuesday displayed innovative projects aimed at addressing local challenges and offering their solutions. The students from across the valley showcased around 100 projects at an event 'Pragaash 2024' held at SKICC here. Also Read | TTD Vaikunta Ekadasi 2025 Ticket Booking Commences: Online Tickets for Tirumala Vaikunta Dwara Darshan in Tirupati Now Available for Devotees, Here's How To Book. The event, organised by 'Pi Jam Foundation', supported by UNICEF in collaboration with the Atal Innovation Mission (AIM), and Directorate of School Education (DSE), J-K, highlighted the region's emerging role as a centre for technological innovation and community-driven problem-solving. The event featured a series of student-led projects developed in Atal Tinkering Labs (ATLs) tackling critical issues ranging from environmental sustainability to agricultural efficiency using technology and design thinking. Also Read | Year Ender 2024: From Launch of India's 1st Analog Space Mission to Successful Tests of Reusable Launch Vehicle 'Pushpak', Check List of ISRO Accomplishments. The innovative models among others included 'early landslide detection and alert system', 'smart women safety handbag', 'flood prediction system' and 'line watch pro'. Iftikhar Rasool, studying at the Boys Higher Secondary School, Bandipora, has developed an IoT (Internet of Things) based early landslide detection and alert system that can provide warning about a possible landslide in the prone areas. Rasool said he got the idea after he was stuck on the road due to a landslide while he was returning from his hometown Gurez. "After coming back from there, I discussed this with my teacher and started this project. He helped me in making this project. It is IoT based because it gives us real time data," he said. The student said he has installed vibration sensor, DHT-11 sensor (temperature and humidity sensor) as well as a camera so that if vibration is detected, the signal will go to the control unit that a landslide is about to happen. Rasool said the prototype also uses WhatsApp API so that a message will reach people warning them of a landslide. "The control unit will close the barricades on the road in the landslide prone areas, saving lives," he said. He claimed the project can be used in places like Gurez and along the vulnerable places along the Srinagar-Jammu national highway as well. A team of girl students from Girls Higher Secondary School, Amirakadal here, have developed 'Women Safety Bag' to protect women as crimes against them are increasing in the society. "Nirbhaya, Kolkata doctor's rape case, are some examples which show that women are not safe in today's society. Research shows that 12 per cent of women could have been saved if their correct location had reached someone on time. That is why we have made it," one of the developers, Ayra said. She said the bag has a speaker which can sound an alarm in times of trouble so that people around will be alerted and there is also a GPS tracker through which they will be able to send correct location to get help. Another project that garnered attention at the event was 'Line Watch Pro' system that alerts the power department officials when a transmission line develops a fault or snaps. Aman, student of Government Higher Secondary School, Boniyar in Uri area of north Kashmir, who developed the system, said the model sends real-time data to a mobile phone. "We have prepared a model of a grid which gives real time information in case of fault. As soon as a power supply line falls, its information comes directly on our mobile app," he said. "This can prevent accidents. In this, we have used ESP-32 sensor which is a WiFi module and is connected to our mobile. As soon as ESP-32 gets the signal, it gives the signal to the API and they further send a direct message to the mobile," he added. Minister for Education Sakina Masood Itoo, who unveiled the event, said education is not just about academics, but about nurturing creativity and providing students with platforms to express their talents and ideas. "This initiative demonstrates our commitment to empowering students to think beyond the textbook," Itoo said. She said the government's goal is to create opportunities for every student to showcase their abilities and talents. By linking projects to real-world applications, we are preparing them for a brighter and more prosperous future. The education department is fully committed to supporting teachers and students in their journey towards excellence, the minister added. Addressing the function, Mission Director of the Atal Innovation Mission (AIM), Delhi, Chintan Vaishnav, said the most important thing that is happening in these experiments is the fact that local problems are being solved locally. He said J-K's participation in the ATL Innovation Challenge stands at 36 per cent, compared to a national average of 3.18 per cent. "It reflects the commitment and innovation of the students and teachers in the region. J-K's contribution to Top 500 Innovators Program is double the national average. "What we are seeing here is a remarkable shift'?students solving complex local problems like flash floods, snow accumulation, and environmental changes, which have the potential to create lasting impact," he said. Vaishnav said inspired by J-K's success, this programme will now extend to all hilly and tribal regions, including the north-eastern states. Pi Jam Foundation's CEO, Shoaib Dar, said Kashmir is a growing centre of innovation and entrepreneurial potential. He said over 300 students from J-K showcased 100 plus innovative projects that addressed local challenges and offered solutions. "Students are stepping out of their classrooms into their communities, talking to farmers, and engaging with people to build meaningful solutions," Dar said. (This is an unedited and auto-generated story from Syndicated News feed, LatestLY Staff may not have modified or edited the content body)
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Qatar will kick off 2025 with a packed calendar of events, from desert escapes and shopping festivals to kite displays and a major marathon, promising a diverse range of attractions for both local and international visitors. The ongoing Ras Abrouq events, which began on December 18 and running until January 18, 2025, marked the start of these festivities. Situated at the northern tip of the Zekreet Peninsula, Ras Abrouq borders the Al-Reem Biosphere Reserve, a Unesco World Heritage site. This exclusive desert experience invites guests to explore the Film City and Desert Escape near the Our Habitas Ras Abrouq Resort. Attendees can immerse themselves in wellness activities, gourmet dining, live music, and cultural performances. According to Visit Qatar, the month-long event also features children's workshops hosted by Al-Hosh Gallery, ensuring a blend of engaging experiences for all ages. The highly-anticipated Shop Qatar 2025 will take place from January 1 to February 1. Dubbed as the nation’s largest shopping festival, this month-long extravaganza will offer a variety of attractions, including live shows, family-friendly entertainment, interactive activations, and promotional offers. Shoppers will also have the chance to win prizes through raffle draws, with rewards ranging from cash to brand-new vehicles. The preservation of Qatari heritage will take centre stage at the 16th Qatar International Falcons and Hunting Festival (Marmi 2025), also scheduled for January 1 to February 1 at Sabkhat Marmi in the Sealine Area. This annual event, organised by the Al Gannas Qatari Society, attracts a large audience of locals, expatriates, and international tourists eager to witness the various championships and competitions that showcase falconry, a deeply rooted tradition in Qatar and the wider GCC region. Adding a splash of colour to Doha’s skyline, the Qatar Kite Festival is set to return to Old Doha Port from January 16 to 18, 2025. Following its successful debut in February 2024, this three-day festival will feature dozens of kites from around the world, exhibiting a wide array of designs, colours, and sizes. The highlight is set to be a spectacular day-night kite flying display that will captivate spectators. Meanwhile, runners will lace up their shoes on January 17 for the 13th edition of the Doha Marathon by Ooredoo. Anticipating more than 15,000 participants, the event promises to be the largest ever, creating a vibrant atmosphere for both runners and their families. The marathon will start and finish at Hotel Park and will follow a scenic route along Doha’s Corniche. The allure of luxury will be in the spotlight from January 30 to February 5 with the 21st Doha Jewellery and Watches Exhibition. Taking place at the Doha Exhibition and Convention Centre, the exhibition will host more than 500 renowned brands, immersing attendees in the world of high-end design and craftsmanship. With an average of 30,000 visitors from 175 countries, this is a crucial event on the global jewellery and watch calendar. February will continue with the annual Qatar International Food Festival taking place at Hotel Park from February 12 to 22. This popular food fair will showcase an array of local, regional, and international cuisines. The festival will also include nightly fireworks, live entertainment, and culinary workshops. Visit Qatar noted that Web Summit Qatar will return to DECC from February 23 to 26. This Middle Eastern edition of the world’s largest technology conference will bring thousands of entrepreneurs, investors, and innovators to Doha, creating opportunities for collaboration and the development of cutting-edge technologies.BEIRUT (AP) — Insurgents' stunning march across Syria gained speed on Saturday with news that they had reached the suburbs of the capital and with the government forced to deny rumors that President Bashar Assad had fled the country. The rebels' moves around Damascus, reported by an opposition war monitor and a rebel commander, came after the Syrian army withdrew from much of southern part of the country, leaving more areas, including two provincial capitals, under the control of opposition fighters. The advances in the past week were among the largest in recent years by opposition factions, led by a group that has its origins in al-Qaida and is considered a terrorist organization by the U.S. and the United Nations. As they have advanced, the insurgents, led by the Hayat Tahrir al-Sham group, or HTS, have met little resistance from the Syrian army. The U.N.’s special envoy for Syria, Geir Pedersen, on Saturday called for urgent talks in Geneva to ensure an “orderly political transition.” Speaking to reporters at the annual Doha Forum in Qatar, he said the situation in Syria was changing by the minute. In Damascus, people rushed to stock up on supplies. Thousands rushed the Syria border with Lebanon, trying to leave the country. Many shops in the capital were shuttered, a resident told The Associated Press, and those that remained open ran out of staples such as sugar. Some shops were selling items at three times the normal price. “The situation is very strange. We are not used to that,” the resident said, insisting on anonymity, fearing retributions. “People are worried whether there will be a battle (in Damascus) or not.” It was the first time that opposition forces reach the outskirts of Damascus since 2018, when Syrian troops recaptured the area following a yearslong siege. Amid the developments, Syria’s state media denied rumors flooding social media that Assad has left the country, saying he is performing his duties in Damascus. Assad's chief international backer, Russia, is busy with its war in Ukraine, and Lebanon’s powerful Hezbollah, which at one point sent thousands of fighters to shore up his forces, has been weakened by a yearlong conflict with Israel. Iran, meanwhile, has seen its proxies across the region degraded by regular Israeli airstrikes. Pedersen said a date for the talks in Geneva on the implementation of U.N. Resolution 2254 would be announced later. The resolution, adopted in 2015, called for a Syrian-led political process, starting with the establishment of a transitional governing body, followed by the drafting of a new constitution and ending with U.N.-supervised elections. Rami Abdurrahman, who heads the Britain-based Syrian Observatory for Human Rights, an opposition war monitor, said insurgents were in the Damascus suburbs of Maadamiyah, Jaramana and Daraya. Opposition fighters were also marching from eastern Syria toward the Damascus suburb of Harasta, he added. A commander with the insurgents, Hassan Abdul-Ghani, posted on the Telegram messaging app that opposition forces had begun the “final stage” of their offensive by encircling Damascus. Syria’s military, meanwhile, sent large numbers of reinforcements to defend the key central city of Homs, Syria’s third largest, as insurgents approached its outskirts. The shock offensive began Nov. 27, during which gunmen captured the northern city of Aleppo, Syria’s largest, and the central city of Hama, the country’s fourth largest city. HTS leader Abu Mohammed al-Golani told CNN in an interview Thursday from Syria that the aim is to overthrow Assad’s government. The Britain-based Observatory said Syrian troops have withdrawn from much of the two southern provinces and are sending reinforcements to Homs, where a battle is looming. If the insurgents capture Homs, they would cut the link between Damascus, Assad’s seat of power, and the coastal region where the president enjoys wide support. The Syrian army said in a statement Saturday that it has carried out redeployment and repositioning in Sweida and Daraa after its checkpoints came under attack by “terrorists.” The army said it is setting up a “strong and coherent defensive and security belt in the area,” apparently to defend Damascus from the south. The Syrian government has referred to opposition gunmen as terrorists since conflict broke out in March 2011. After the fall of the cities of Daraa and Sweida early Saturday, Syrian government forces remained in control of five provincial capitals — Damascus, Homs and Quneitra, as well as Latakia and Tartus on the Mediterranean coast. Tartus is home to the only Russian naval base outside the former Soviet Union while Latakia is home to a major Russian air base. In the gas-rich nation of Qatar, the foreign ministers of Iran, Russia and Turkey met to discuss the situation in Syria. Turkey is a main backer of the rebels. Qatar's top diplomat, Sheikh Mohammed bin Abdulrahman Al Thani, criticized Assad for failing to take advantage of the lull in fighting in recent years to address the country’s underlying problems. “Assad didn’t seize this opportunity to start engaging and restoring his relationship with his people,” he said. Sheikh Mohammed said he was surprised by how quickly the rebels have advanced and said there is a real threat to Syria’s “territorial integrity.” He said the war could “damage and destroy what is left if there is no sense of urgency” to start a political process. After the fall of the cities of Daraa and Sweida early Saturday, Syrian government forces remained in control of five provincial capitals — Damascus, Homs and Quneitra, as well as Latakia and Tartus on the Mediterranean coast. On Friday, U.S.-backed fighters of the Kurdish-led Syrian Democratic Forces captured wide parts of the eastern province of Deir el-Zour that borders Iraq as well as the provincial capital that carries the same name. The capture of areas in Deir el-Zour is a blow to Iran’s influence in the region as the area is the gateway to the corridor linking the Mediterranean to Iran, a supply line for Iran-backed fighters, including Lebanon’s Hezbollah. With the capture of a main border crossing with Iraq by the SDF and after opposition fighters took control of the Naseeb border crossing to Jordan in southern Syria, the Syrian government's only gateway to the outside world is the Masnaa border crossing with Lebanon. Karam reported from London. Associated Press writers Albert Aji in Damascus, Syria and Qassim Abdul-Zahra in Baghdad contributed to this report.