{ "@context": "https://schema.org", "@type": "NewsArticle", "dateCreated": "2024-12-05T21:41:12+02:00", "datePublished": "2024-12-05T21:41:12+02:00", "dateModified": "2024-12-05T21:41:11+02:00", "url": "https://www.newtimes.co.rw/article/22378/opinions/editorial/volunteerism-is-the-cornerstone-of-our-development-lets-show-up-for-our-nation", "headline": "Volunteerism is the cornerstone of our development, lets show up for our nation", "description": "The International Day of Volunteers which was celebrated on December 5, provides an opportune moment to acknowledge the invaluable contributions of...", "keywords": "", "inLanguage": "en", "mainEntityOfPage":{ "@type": "WebPage", "@id": "https://www.newtimes.co.rw/article/22378/opinions/editorial/volunteerism-is-the-cornerstone-of-our-development-lets-show-up-for-our-nation" }, "thumbnailUrl": "https://www.newtimes.co.rw/thenewtimes/uploads/images/2024/12/05/65706.jpeg", "image": { "@type": "ImageObject", "url": "https://www.newtimes.co.rw/thenewtimes/uploads/images/2024/12/05/65706.jpeg" }, "articleBody": "The International Day of Volunteers which was celebrated on December 5, provides an opportune moment to acknowledge the invaluable contributions of volunteers, especially in Rwanda's journey of healing and reconstruction. In the aftermath of the 1994 Genocide against the Tutsi, the nation faced a myriad of challenges, from rebuilding infrastructure to restoring social cohesion. It was during this period that volunteerism emerged as a powerful force, driving the country's transformation. ALSO READ Our youth volunteers are defying the narrative; we must support them In the immediate aftermath of the genocide, public servants, driven by a sense of duty and patriotism, worked tirelessly without pay for years. As things got better, they would get food rations for salary. Needless to say, their selfless dedication was instrumental in stabilising the country and laying the foundation for future development. The Gacaca courts, a unique system of community justice, relied heavily on the efforts of tens of thousands of ordinary citizens who volunteered their time to administer justice. These volunteer judges, without formal legal training, played a crucial role in reconciling the nation. ALSO READ Development work is not done in isolation, Kagame tells youth volunteers Fast-forward, the Covid-19 pandemic further highlighted the importance of volunteerism. Community Health Workers, who are volunteers, work tirelessly to educate the public on different public health concerns and are now able to administer basic treatment in their respective communities. Youth volunteers also stepped up to support their communities, distributing food, sanitizing public spaces, and raising awareness about preventive measures. Volunteerism is not just about giving back; it is also about personal growth and community empowerment. By volunteering, individuals can develop new skills, gain valuable experience, and build strong relationships. It is a powerful tool for social change and can help to create a more just, equitable, and sustainable society. ALSO READ 100,000 volunteers set for Rwanda general elections As we move forward, it is imperative that we continue to embrace the spirit of volunteerism. By volunteering our time and talents, we can make a significant difference in the lives of others and contribute to the ongoing development of our nation. Let us all strive to be active citizens and make volunteerism a cornerstone of our lives.", "author": { "@type": "Person", "name": "The New Times" }, "publisher": { "@type": "Organization", "name": "The New Times", "url": "https://www.newtimes.co.rw/", "sameAs": ["https://www.facebook.com/TheNewTimesRwanda/","https://twitter.com/NewTimesRwanda","https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCuZbZj6DF9zWXpdZVceDZkg"], "logo": { "@type": "ImageObject", "url": "/theme_newtimes/images/logo.png", "width": 270, "height": 57 } }, "copyrightHolder": { "@type": "Organization", "name": "The New Times", "url": "https://www.newtimes.co.rw/" } }For travelers, Puerto Rico is a floating island of desirability
NEW YORK — Greg Gumbel, a longtime CBS sportscaster, has died from cancer, according to a statement from family released by CBS on Friday. He was 78. “He leaves behind a legacy of love, inspiration and dedication to over 50 extraordinary years in the sports broadcast industry; and his iconic voice will never be forgotten,” his wife Marcy Gumbel and daughter Michelle Gumbel said in a statement. In March, Gumbel missed his first NCAA Tournament since 1997 due to what he said at the time were family health issues. Gumbel was the studio host for CBS since returning to the network from NBC in 1998. Gumbel signed an extension with CBS last year that allowed him to continue hosting college basketball while stepping back from NFL announcing duties. In 2001, he announced Super Bowl XXXV for CBS, becoming the first Black announcer in the U.S. to call play-by-play of a major sports championship. David Berson, president and CEO of CBS Sports, described Gumbel as breaking barriers and setting standards for others during his years as a voice for fans in sports, including in the NFL and March Madness. “A tremendous broadcaster and gifted storyteller, Greg led one of the most remarkable and groundbreaking sports broadcasting careers of all time,” said Berson. Gumbel had two stints at CBS, leaving the network for NBC when it lost football in 1994 and returning when it regained the contract in 1998. He hosted CBS’ coverage of the 1992 and 1994 Winter Olympics and called Major League Baseball games during its four-year run broadcasting the national pastime. In 1995, he hosted the World Figure Skating Championships and the following year hosted NBC’s daytime coverage of the Olympic Summer Games in Atlanta. But it was football and basketball where he was best known and made his biggest impact. Gumbel hosted CBS’ NFL studio show, “The NFL Today” from 1990 to 1993 and again in 2004. Related Articles He also called NFL games as the network’s lead play-by-play announcer from 1998 to 2003, including Super Bowl XXXV and XXXVIII. He returned to the NFL booth in 2005, leaving that role after the 2022 season. He won local Emmy Awards during his long career and was the recipient of the 2007 Pat Summerall Award for excellence in sports broadcasting. Outside of his career as a sportscaster, Gumbel was affiliated with the March of Dimes for three decades, including as a member of its board of trustees. He also was a member of the Sports Council for St Jude’s Children’s Research Hospital for 16 years.Dodge Charger History: Every Generation Since 1966Lebawit Lily Girma | (TNS) Bloomberg News When winter rolls around, travelers predictably turn their attention to beaches. And this year, it’s the destination that comedian Tony Hinchcliffe called “a floating island of garbage in the middle of the ocean” that’s experiencing outsize demand from Americans planning a warm island vacation. Talk about trashing stereotypes. Puerto Rico has recovered overseas visitors (excluding those from Canada and Mexico) faster than any U.S. state or territory — a staggering 85% increase over its 2019 overseas inbound visitor levels as of 2023, according to an October study from the U.S. National Travel and Tourism Office. There are now more daily flights from the U.S. West Coast, and hotel bookings are 6% higher so far in this last quarter of 2024 year-over-year. It’s a trifecta of tourism growth: more visitors, but also longer stays and a higher spend that reached a record $9.8 billion in 2023, boosting small businesses as well as major brands. “We don’t have a slow season in Puerto Rico anymore,” says Brad Dean, chief executive officer at Discover Puerto Rico. Even if they’re not booking, people are dreaming about “La Isla.” By tracking flight searches for trips between November 2024 and February 2025, a measure of “inspirational” demand, tourism intelligence company Mabrian Technologies reports Puerto Rico is up 9% compared with the same period last year and leads Barbados, the Dominican Republic, Jamaica and the Bahamas in the Caribbean proper. Only Costa Rica ranked higher in the wider region. Dean attributes Puerto Rico’s ongoing tourism growth to a strategic effort to reposition the island’s brand as more than a sun-and-sea destination, starting back in 2018. That led to the Live Boricua campaign, which began in 2022 and leaned heavily on culture, history and cuisine and was, Dean says, “a pretty bold departure” in the way Puerto Rico was showcased to travelers. He adds that at least $2 billion in tourism spend is linked to this campaign. “We (also) haven’t shied away from actively embracing the LGBTQ+ community, and that has opened up Puerto Rico to audiences that may not have considered the Caribbean before,” Dean says. Hotels are preparing to meet this growing demand: A number of established boutique properties are undergoing upgrades valued between $4 million and more than $50 million, including Hotel El Convento; La Concha, which will join the Marriott Autograph Collection; Condado Vanderbilt Hotel; and the Wyndham Grand Rio Mar. That’s in addition to ultra-chic options that are coming online in 2025, including the adults-only Alma San Juan, with rooms overlooking Plaza Colón in the heart of Old San Juan, and the five-star Veranó boutique hotel in San Juan’s trendy Santurce neighborhood. The beachfront Ritz-Carlton San Juan in Isla Verde will also be reopening seven years after Hurricane Maria decimated the island. The travel industry’s success is helping boost employment on the island, to the tune of 101,000 leisure and hospitality jobs as of September 2024, a 26% increase over pre-pandemic levels, according to the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics. Efforts to promote Puerto Rico’s provinces beyond the San Juan metro area — such as surfing hub Rincón on the west coast, historical Ponce on the south coast and Orocovis for nature and coffee haciendas in the central mountains —have spread the demand to small businesses previously ignored by the travel industry. Take Sheila Osorio, who leads workshops on Afro-Puerto Rican bomba music and dance at Taller Nzambi, in the town of Loíza, 15 miles east of San Juan; or Wanda Otero, founder of cheese-producing company Vaca Negra in Hatillo, an hour’s drive west of Old San Juan, where you can join a cheese-making workshop and indulge in artisanal cheese tastings. “The list of businesses involved in tourism has gone from 650 in 2018 to 6,100, many of which are artists and artisans,” Dean says. While New Yorkers and Miami residents have always been the largest visitor demographic, Dean says more mainland Americans now realize that going to Puerto Rico means passport-free travel to enjoy beaches, as well as opportunities to dine in Michelin-rated restaurants, hike the only rainforest in the U.S. and kayak in a bioluminescent bay. Visitors from Chicago and Dallas, for example, have increased by approximately 40% from July 1, 2023, to June 30, 2024, compared with the same period in 2022-2023, and more travelers are expected from Denver now that United Airlines Holdings Inc. has kicked off its first nonstop service to San Juan, beginning on Oct. 29. Previously, beach destinations that were easy to reach on direct flights from Denver included Mexico, Belize and California, but now Puerto Rico joins that list with a 5.5-hour nonstop route that cuts more than two hours from the next-best option. Given United Airlines’ hub in San Francisco, it could mean more travelers from the Golden State in the near future, too. In December, U.S. airlines will have 3,000 more seats per day to the territory compared with the same period last year, for a total of 84,731 — surpassing even Mexico and the Dominican Republic in air capacity, according to data from aviation analytics firm Cirium. Luis Muñoz Marín International Airport, the island’s primary gateway, is projecting a record volume of 13 million passengers by year’s end — far surpassing the 9.4 million it saw in 2019. As for Hinchcliffe’s “floating island of garbage” line, Dean says it was “a terribly insensitive attempt at humor” that transformed outrage into a marketing silver lining, with an outpouring of positive public sentiment and content on Puerto Rico all over social media. Success, as that old chestnut goes, may be the best revenge. “It was probably the most efficient influencer campaign we’ve ever had,” Dean says, “a groundswell of visitors who posted their photos and videos and said, ‘This is the Puerto Rico that I know.’” ©2024 Bloomberg L.P. Visit bloomberg.com. Distributed by Tribune Content Agency, LLC.
When W.F. West coach Dan Hill turned to Gage Brumfield at QB prior to the start of the 2023 season, he had trust in the junior to lead an efficient attack. The 2023 season was successful, as the Bearcats made it to the state tournament. This fall, though, Brumfield took his game to another level, earning the EvCo MVP award and The Chronicle’s All-Area MVP award while leading W.F. West to the state semifinals. “They’re the best coaching staff I could ask for,” Brumfield said. “They have always given me confidence and encouragement ...It was amazing to get to play for them one more time.” With a bevy of talented skill-position teammates to work with, Brumfield consistently diced up opposing defenses. He finished the year with 1,781 passing yards and 26 touchdowns to just three picks, and he also added 945 yards and 16 touchdowns as a runner. He also occasionally made the trip out wide to his old stomping grounds, where he caught six catches for 107 yards and a touchdown. With Brumfield at the helm, the Bearcats made the state semifinals for the second time in three seasons. “It was amazing,” Brumfield said. “The whole year was so much fun for all of us. We had a plan and a goal, and we did everything that we possibly could to achieve that goal. We were just locked in the whole time, just doing everything that we could, and having one last run.” Brumfield made sure to credit his teammates as well, adding that he “couldn’t do it without them.” “They help me more than they know and get credit for,” Brumfield said. Brumfield’s football career isn’t over, as he’s headed to Cheney to suit up for Eastern Washington University next fall. The move east will come with another position change. Brumfield will move to linebacker for the Eagles, a position where EWU Defensive Coordinator and Linebackers coach Eric Sanders believes Brumfield can thrive. “I think that (Sanders) can put me in the right spot to have the best success I possibly can,” Brumfield said. “I’m excited for the challenge ... I’m excited to get faster, stronger, a little bit bigger, and just kind of see how college football really is.” And when Brumfield is at Eastern, he can always think back on the final trip to the semifinals with his teammates. “It’s still my favorite memory that I’ll hold onto forever,” Brumfield said. Quarterback Blaze Underhill, Onalaska One of the C2BL East’s Co-Offensive MVPs, Underhill helped the Loggers win a league title and reach the state quarterfinals by rushing for 1,708 yards and 25 touchdowns, throwing for 100 yards and two more touchdowns, and hauling in a 19-yard TD reception and a two-point conversion to himself. Grady Wilson, Napavine The C2BL West first-team QB tallied 1,731 passing yards, 1,043 rushing yards, and 38 total touchdowns to lead the Tigers back to Husky Stadium for their fourth consecutive state championship game. Running Back Ethan Rodriguez, Rochester Rodrigues ran for 1,568 yards and 22 touchdowns to lead Rochester to a league title and earn 1A Evergreen League MVP honors. Michael Vassar, Tenino Vassar tallied 1,438 yards and 15 touchdowns and the ground, which was enough to be named 1A Evergreen League Offensive MVP. Rodrigo Rodriguez, Onalaska Rodriguez did it all for the Loggers, rushing for 1,657 yards and 27 touchdowns while also adding three receiving touchdowns and five return touchdowns. He was named Co-Offensive MVP along with Underhill. Judah Kelly, Morton-White Pass The MWP senior eclipsed the 1,000-yard mark and scored 20 total touchdowns (16 rush, 4 pass) to lead the Timberwolves to a crossover. Beau Miller, Adna Miller made a consistent and prominent impact for the Pirates, rushing for 1,786 yards and 20 touchdowns to help Adna reach the state quarterfinals for the first time since 2019. Jaylin Nixon, Tumwater The EvCo’s Offensive MVP headlined Tumwater’s rushing attack, leading the team with 700 rushing yards while also hitting paydirt 10 times. Wide Receiver Daniel Rodas, Oakville Rodas was named the Southwest 1B Offensive Player of the Year after hauling in 1,454 yards and scoring 21 touchdowns, leading the Acorns to a crossover. Tucker Land, W.F. West An EvCo first-team receiver and linebacker, Land earns a spot as a wideout here, as he hauled in 34 catches for 572 yards and nine touchdowns to help W.F. West reach the state semis. Karsen Denault, Napavine Denault was named the C2BL West MVP for his play on both sides of the ball, but his 44 catches, 909 receiving yards, 14 receiving touchdowns, and eight return touchdowns (five punts, three kicks) earn him a place on offense here. Tristan DeVille, Black Hills DeVille was Black Hills’ No. 1 receiver all season, and he finished with 34 receptions, 667 yards, and seven receiving touchdowns to earn a first-team all-league spot. Adam Kruger, Toledo The junior wideout was a big reason the Riverhawks returned to the state tournament, as he hauled in 613 yards and six touchdowns on 31 catches, which landed him a place on the C2BL East First-Team. Hunter Howell, Rainier Howell tallied nearly 1,600 yards for the Mountaineers, hauling in 37 catches for 821 yards and six touchdowns, rushing for 537 yards and five touchdowns, and throwing for 236 yards and a pair of TDs. Tight End Jake Dillon, Tumwater The Tumwater tight end took advantage of the chances he got in Tumwater’s run-heavy offense, averaging nearly 20 yards a catch and scoring five touchdowns. Offensive Line Wyatt Dahl, Rochester The 1A Evergreen Lineman of the Year, Dahl led an O-Line that blocked for the 1A Evergreen MVP in Ethan Rodriguez, who ran for over 1,500 yards. Jackson Knittle, Adna A first-team lineman on both sides of the ball, Knittle led a Pirate O-Line that had its way running the football all season long. Kieler Jackson, Rainier Jackson played well enough to be named to the C2BL East First-Team on the O-Line, and he also showed off his arm on a 70-yard touchdown pass in Rainier’s regular-season finale. Justin Jacoby, Onalaska The Onalaska senior was named to the C2BL East First-Team on both sides of the line, and he helped pave the way for Underhill and Rodrigo Rodrgiuez to have monster seasons on the ground. Christian Martin, Toledo The Toledo senior ended his high school career with an excellent campaign blocking for Eli Weeks, as he was named to the C2BL East First-Team. Carlos Vallejo, W.F. West A first-team EvCo O-Lineman, Vallejo led a Bearcat O-Line that protected All-Area and EvCo MVP Gage Brumfield. Defensive Line Malijah Tucker, Tumwater The Washington State commit ended his high school career with a bang, recording 57 tackles, 17 tackles for loss, six sacks, two fumble recoveries, and two blocked kicks to earn EvCo Co-Defensive MVP honors. David Daarud, Centralia Centralia’s lone EvCo first-teamer, Daarud wreaked havoc all year long by logging 39 tackles, eight tackles for loss, and five sacks to headline the Tiger defensive line. Jack Nelson, Napavine One of the best 2B linemen in the state, Nelson earns a place on the D-Line after a 2024 season with 59 tackles, seven tackles for loss, and a sack. Mehki Richardson, Tumwater Another staunch piece on the Tumwater D-Line, Richardson tallied 67 tackles, 13 sacks, and 12 tackles for loss while also forcing two fumbles, recovering three, and returning one for a touchdown. Grady Westlund, W.F. West Westlund was a regular in opposing teams backfield this season, as he finished with 61 tackles, 16 tackles for loss, and six sacks while also forcing three fumbles, recovering one, and coming down with an interception. Cameron Kuberth, Mossyrock Kuberth was a staple on the Mossyrock defensive line, earning a place on the C2BL second-team with his production. Linebacker Beau Guyette, W.F. West Another key piece on the W.F. West defense, Guyette ended the year with 76 tackles, 10.5 tackles for loss, and 4.5 sacks, which was good enough to end up on the All-EvCo First-Team. Beckett Wall, Tumwater The other EvCo Co-Defensive MVP, Wall had 95 tackles, a whopping 25 tackles for loss, and six sacks while also blocking three kicks and recovering a fumble to help lead the T-Birds back to the state championship game. Cash Short, Tumwater Short was all over the field on both sides of the ball, but his 64 tackles, nine tackles for loss, four sacks, two fumble recoveries, two interceptions, and two defensive touchdowns gets him on as a linebacker here. Colin Shields, Napavine Another first-teamer on both sides of the ball, Shields was named the C2BL East Defensive MVP after tallying 134 tackles, 17 tackles for loss, three sacks, and two interceptions to lead the Napavine defense. Kenny Bell, Black Hills Bell led the Black Hills’ defense with 92 tackles, seven for loss, two forced fumbles, and six total blocks (four punts, two field goals), which landed him alongside Short and Guyette as first-team linebackers. Cody Strozyk, PWV Strozyk was another C2BL stud to earn first-team honors on both sides of the ball, and he earns a spot at LB here for his work leading a defense that allowed just 12.4 points per game in its wins this season. Defensive Back Cooper Lawrence, Onalaska Lawrence was one of two shutdown corners for the Loggers this year, as he hauled in five interceptions to shut down one side of the field. Sam Pannkuk, Onalaska The second of Onalaska’s shutdown corners, Pannkuk also hauled in five interceptions and made it difficult for any offense to attack vertically against the Loggers. Eli Weeks, Toledo Also a first-team QB, Weeks added 47 tackles, three interceptions, and a fumble recovery to land on the C2BL East First-Team as a DB. Austin Gonia, Tenino The Tenino senior put together an incredible season for a DB, tallying 29 tackles, grabbing three picks, and only allowing one completed pass to his receiver all year. Carson Rotter, Rochester Rotter was one of the best ball tracking DBs in the area, as he hauled in six interceptions while also adding 14 tackles for loss to earn a First-Team Evergreen League spot.( MENAFN - The Rio Times) Rwanda has officially declared its ambition to host a Formula 1 Grand Prix, a significant move for the country in the realm of international sports. President Paul Kagame announced this during the FIA General Assembly in Kigali, thanking F1 CEO Stefano Domenicali for their ongoing discussions. This bid comes after a long absence of Formula 1 in Africa, with the last race held in South Africa in 1993. Rwanda aims to change this narrative and leverage the potential economic benefits of hosting such a prestigious event. An F1 race could draw thousands of international visitors, boosting local businesses in hospitality and services. This influx may lead to increased tourism and foreign investment, vital for Rwanda's economic growth. The country has already seen successes through its "Visit Rwanda" campaign. It increased tourism revenue by 36% in 2023, totaling $636 million. Collaborations with major sports teams like Arsenal FC and PSG have also enhanced Rwanda 's global image. However, the path to hosting an F1 race is fraught with challenges. Analysts estimate that building a new Grand Prix track could cost around $270 million, not including additional infrastructure expenses such as grandstands and safety measures. Economic Implications and Regional Competition The annual maintenance budget could reach $18.5 million. Financial feasibility is a critical concern. Hosting fees paid to Liberty Media can range from $15 million to over $50 million per race. Most revenues from sponsorships and broadcasting rights go directly to Liberty Media. This leaves local track owners with limited financial returns. Rwanda faces competition from South Africa and Morocco, both of which are also interested in hosting rights. South Africa had been in talks for a return but encountered political setbacks. Morocco has hosted F1 events before but lacks recent activity. Support from figures like Lewis Hamilton bolsters Rwanda's bid. Hamilton has publicly endorsed bringing F1 to Africa, highlighting the potential benefits for tourism and global recognition. Rwanda's pursuit of an F1 Grand Prix is more than just a sporting event; it represents a strategic effort for economic transformation. While significant challenges remain, the potential rewards make this initiative noteworthy. As discussions progress between Rwandan officials and F1 executives, Kigali stands at a pivotal moment that could redefine its role in global sports and set a precedent for future events across Africa. MENAFN13122024007421016031ID1108991727 Legal Disclaimer: MENAFN provides the information “as is” without warranty of any kind. We do not accept any responsibility or liability for the accuracy, content, images, videos, licenses, completeness, legality, or reliability of the information contained in this article. If you have any complaints or copyright issues related to this article, kindly contact the provider above.
Capitals' Alex Ovechkin to miss 4-6 weeks with fractured fibula, chase for Wayne Gretzky's goal record put on holdWest Ham surprise Newcastle with 2-0 away win
Trump, 78, was accused of conspiring to overturn the results of the 2020 election he lost to Joe Biden and mishandling classified documents after leaving the White House, but neither case ever came to trial. Smith, in a filing with the district judge in Washington presiding over the election case, said it should be dropped in light of the long-standing Justice Department policy of not indicting or prosecuting a sitting president. He cited the same reasoning in withdrawing his appeal of a ruling by a district judge, a Trump appointee, who dismissed the classified documents case earlier this year. Smith asked District Judge Tanya Chutkan to dismiss the election interference case "without prejudice" -- leaving open the possibility it could be revived after Trump leaves office four years from now. The special counsel paused the election interference case this month after Trump defeated Vice President Kamala Harris in the November 5 presidential election. "The Government's position on the merits of the defendant's prosecution has not changed," Smith said in the filing with Chutkan. "But the circumstances have." "It has long been the position of the Department of Justice that the United States Constitution forbids the federal indictment and subsequent criminal prosecution of a sitting President," Smith said. "As a result this prosecution must be dismissed before the defendant is inaugurated." In a separate filing, Smith said he was withdrawing his appeal of the dismissal of the classified documents case against Trump but pursuing the case against his two co-defendants, Trump valet Walt Nauta and Mar-a-Lago property manager Carlos De Oliveira. Trump's communications director Steven Cheung welcomed the move to dismiss the election interference case, calling it a "major victory for the rule of law." "The American People and President Trump want an immediate end to the political weaponization of our justice system and we look forward to uniting our country," Cheung said in a statement. Trump is accused of conspiracy to defraud the United States and conspiracy to obstruct an official proceeding -- the session of Congress called to certify Biden's win, which was violently attacked on January 6, 2021, by a mob of the then-president's supporters. Trump is also accused of seeking to disenfranchise US voters with his false claims that he won the 2020 election. The former and incoming president also faces two state cases -- in New York and Georgia. He was convicted in New York in May of 34 counts of falsifying business records to cover up a hush money payment to porn star Stormy Daniels on the eve of the 2016 election to stop her from revealing an alleged 2006 sexual encounter. Judge Juan Merchan has postponed sentencing while he considers a request from Trump's lawyers that the conviction be thrown out in light of the Supreme Court ruling in July that an ex-president has broad immunity from prosecution. In Georgia, Trump faces racketeering charges over his efforts to subvert the 2020 election results in the southern state, but that case will likely be frozen while he is in office. cl/bgs
When Tom Thibodeau spent much of his postgame news conference Tuesday repeating a mantra of “just worried about Charlotte” to nearly every question, you could believe him. He’d gone through this just days earlier. Last Friday, the Knicks faced a depleted Hornets squad in Charlotte to finish off a five-game road trip and barely managed a one-point victory. That’s why Thibodeau will never allow himself to look ahead. Sometimes warnings fall on deaf ears, though, and the Knicks found themselves down by 13 points minutes into Thursday night’s game against the Hornets at Madison Square Garden. With that, the wake-up call was activated — one that Thibodeau hopes lasts longer than this night. First it was Jalen Brunson dragging them back into the game with 19 of his 24 points in the first quarter. Josh Hart took over in the second quarter with 14 of his 18 points. OG Anunoby scored 15 of his 25 points in the third quarter as the Knicks turned that early deficit into a 28-point lead in their 125-101 win. The fourth quarter? Karl-Anthony Towns, who pulled down 16 rebounds, had 12 of his 27 points. Mikal Bridges finished with 19. “I think we put ourselves in a hole in the first quarter,” Brunson said. “ . . . And then the beginning of the second half is how we should have started the game. We came out with a lot of energy defensively, got stops and easy baskets, and that’s that.” Even as they pulled away in this game, the Knicks demonstrated why nothing is taken for granted. Brunson collided with Charlotte’s Nick Richards in the third quarter, taking a hard shot to his right side in the hip area. He remained in the game for only a few more minutes before going to the locker room with 2:39 left in the third. When the period ended, his father, assistant coach Rick Brunson, went to the locker room, too. The younger Brunson finally emerged with 6:29 left in the game, returning to the bench with a wrap around his torso. He was listed as available. “I feel amazing,” he said. “I’ll see how I feel tomorrow. And that’s it.” The Knicks didn’t need to push Brunson back onto the floor as they dominated the second half, outscoring Charlotte 38-16 in the third quarter to put the game out of reach. Anunoby had a sequence in the third quarter in which he swatted a shot deep into the stands behind the Knicks’ bench and, on the same possession, swatted another shot into the stands on the other side of the basket, drawing chants of “O-G” from the crowd. “I think we just came out, we executed better,” Towns said. “We made shots more difficult for them and we got turnovers, and the turnovers, we translated that to offense. “So they’re a really good team over there. A young team, very talented, they present a lot of problems and, you know, just at halftime, we were able to get more disciplined and execute at a higher level.” This was the latest test for the Knicks — not of how they measure up to the best in the NBA, but of how they can take advantage of a stretch of the schedule that is stocked with winnable games. The Knicks easily handled depleted New Orleans and dominated a solid Orlando team to start the month. They have won nine of their last 11 games to move to 14-8, and there is reason to believe they can keep it going. Thibodeau may not want to do it, but we can look at the schedule and see that in December, the Knicks have an advantageous series of games that can position them for the postseason. According to NBA.com’s strength-of-schedule rankings, the Knicks have the easiest schedule in the league this month — at least before figuring in the NBA Cup schedule, which to this point has provided only a quarterfinal matchup with the Atlanta Hawks next Wednesday. The Knicks have only one back-to-back set and face eight teams below .500 and five with winning records (Orlando again, Minnesota, San Antonio and the Cup game against Atlanta). “I think we all look at the schedule,” Hart said. “I think, one, just out of curiosity, we want to know what the month entails. We have enough teams that have struggled so far, but at the end of the day, those teams, they’re all good players that are here for a reason, so we can’t sit here and take anyone too lightly . . . When you give guys life, opposing teams life, sometimes that’s the worst thing you can do.’’ Notes & quotes: Cam Payne was held out of the game with what the team called left elbow effusion . . . Precious Achiuwa made his regular-season debut after suffering a strained hamstring in the preseason. He played 12 minutes, scoring two points and grabbing four rebounds, and was greeted with an ovation when he reported to the scorer's table for the first time. “It means a lot to me,” he said. “Obviously, New York is very dear to my heart. So just being able to go out there and hearing the crowd, it meant a lot to me. Definitely watching from the sideline has been very tough, but just being out there and knowing that the crowd is behind me throughout the whole process has been very reassuring.” Steve Popper covers the Knicks for Newsday. He has spent nearly three decades covering the Knicks and the NBA, along with just about every sports team in the New York metropolitan area.Europe’s ambition to develop a robust homegrown EV battery industry to reduce dependence on China is faltering, with Chinese and Asian manufacturers stepping in to fill the void. The most notable setback has been the collapse of Northvolt , a Swedish startup once celebrated as a cornerstone of Europe’s green energy vision. Despite securing the EU’s largest-ever green loan and support from Volkswagen and BMW, Northvolt filed for bankruptcy protection in the US , with its cofounder and CEO, a former Tesla executive, stepping down. Across Europe, 12 out of 16 planned European-led battery factories have been delayed or canceled. In contrast, 10 of 13 projects in Europe led by Asian manufacturers, such as China’s Contemporary Amperex Technology Co. (CATL) and South Korea’s Samsung SDI , are moving forward, underscoring a widening gap in the race for EV battery dominance. Europe’s original vision, driven by massive government subsidies, included factories in Sweden , Poland , Germany , and Canada , designed to produce greener batteries using 100% recycled materials like nickel, manganese, and cobalt. However, this ambition is now unraveling. Industry experts warn of severe repercussions. Andy Palmer, former CEO of Aston Martin, stated that the failure to establish domestic battery production jeopardizes Europe’s automotive industry , risking factory closures and job losses as automakers consider relocating to regions with stronger supply chains. Other projects are also faltering, with Mercedes-Benz and Stellantis delaying plants in Germany and Italy, while Volkswagen has pushed back capacity targets for its European facilities. The UK’s Britishvolt collapsed last year, further compounding the region’s struggles. China, supplying 80% of the world’s lithium-ion batteries , has outpaced Europe with massive investments in its domestic EV sector . Companies like CATL and BYD have become global leaders, while European automakers are now scaling back their electrification strategies and canceling battery orders, leaving the continent’s dreams dimming.Best Laptop Deal of the Day: Slash $200 Off a Gigabyte Gaming Rig
JLR will compete at the 2026 Dakar Rally as part of a wider multi-year partnership with the event. The British company will compete with its Defender brand – now a brand in its own right following a restructuring announced in June that saw the former-Jaguar Land Rover business become simply JLR, and former-Land Rover products Defender, Discovery, and Range Rover become separate brands in their own right, alongside Jaguar. Aside from that, little is known about the project so far, with further details set to be announced during the 2025 Dakar Rally in January. “Adventure is in the very DNA of the Defender brand, so we are inspired to partner with Dakar – the ultimate motorsport adventure – where competitors truly embrace the impossible,” said Defender managing director Mark Cameron. “Our partnership begins in 2025 when Defender will showcase its capability and durability as the official car of the event, but we are already looking to the future and entering a Defender Dakar works team from 2026. “That Defender Dakar works program will be led by James Barclay, JLR Motorsport managing director, and I know James and his team are inspired by the challenge that lays ahead.” The program will be the second factory-backed motorsport effort from JLR, with its Jaguar brand currently competing in Formula E. It secured both the teams’ and manufacturers’ titles last season, but narrowly missed out on a hat-trick after Porsche’s Pascal Wehrlein beat Mitch Evans and Nick Cassidy to the drivers’ crown at the final round in London in July. “Anyone who loves motorsport will have a passion for Dakar,” said Barclay. “It’s the Everest of motorsport and an event where success is dependent as much on human determination in the toughest of conditions as it is the ultimate test for vehicle and engineering capability. Bringing the world’s most capable and iconic 4×4 to the world’s most iconic rally-raid is a perfect fit. “Our first time ever with a factory entry into the Dakar means we are right at the beginning of our journey. We are conscious of how much we have to learn and achieve before taking the start in 2026, but we are already well under way and looking forward to the adventure. We will share more details of this exciting program at the Dakar rally in 2025.” JLR’s involvement with Dakar extends beyond competing in the contest, with Defender also supplying cars to be used by officials and VIP media from next year’s event, while a fleet of specially-prepared Defender recce vehicles will also be provided to officials to be used for support and to test out future rally routes. “We are thrilled to welcome Defender as the new official car partner of the Dakar,” said Dakar rally director David Castera. “It is an iconic brand, present on all continents, that shares our passion for adventure, performance, and innovation. “We are also excited that Defender will accompany us throughout the year, providing vehicles for the organizing teams and for the route reconnaissance. Their reliability and robustness will help us improve our daily efficiency.” Defender’s addition to the Dakar rally roster follows the addition factory efforts from Ford and Romanian brand Dacia, which will compete from next year with programs led by M-Sport and Prodrive respectively. The 2025 Dakar rally begins on January 3 and will be the 47th running of the event, and fifth to take place in Saudi Arabia. The rally raid crown jewel moved from Dakar in Senegal after the 2007 edition, following political unrest in Mauritania. In 2008 the seven-stage Central European Rally counted as the Dakar, before the event was properly rebooted in Argentina and Chile a year later. It remained in South America until 2019, before setting in the Middle East in 2020, where it has remained since.
: The Centre on Monday approved a slew of key decisions, including the second edition of the permanent account number or PAN 2.0 project of the income tax department with an estimated cost of Rs 1,435 crore, enabling technology driven transformation of taxpayer registration services. The government, however, aims to emphasize a digital and paperless process for PAN issuance and a grievance redressal mechanism, making the system more efficient and user-friendly. Briefing the media after the cabinet meeting, Union minister Ashwini Vaishnaw said that the Cabinet Committee on Economic Affairs (CCEA), chaired by the Prime Minister Narendra Modi, has given its approval for the PAN 2.0 project I-T department. "The ambitious project is being built at an estimated cost of Rs 1,435 crore, where it will roll out a free-of-cost upgrade to the PAN card with a QR Code," Mr Vaishnaw said. “The existing system will be upgraded and the digital backbone will be brought in a new way... We will try to make it a common business identifier. There will be a unified portal, it will be completely paperless and online. The emphasis will be on the grievance redressal system," the minister said. He further said that all PAN, TAN services will be integrated together to build a common business identifier, which was a long-standing demand from the commercial world. "A PAN data vault system would be made mandatory for all entities using PAN data so that the data provided by consumers can be kept safe," he added. Meanwhile, the CCEA also approved two hydropower projects worth a total investment of Rs 3,689 crore in Arunachal Pradesh. After the Cabinet meeting, Mr Vaishnaw told the media that the CCEA approved an investment of Rs 1,750 crore for the construction of 186 MW Tato-I Hydro Electric project and Rs 1,939 crore for 240 MW Heo Hydro Electric project in Shi Yomi district of Arunachal Pradesh. The projects will be implemented through joint venture companies between North Eastern Electric Power Corporation Ltd (NEEPCO) and the government of Arunachal Pradesh. "Power generated from the two projects will help improve the power supply position in Arunachal Pradesh and will also help in balancing the national grid," the minister saidTrump Urges Supreme Court to Halt TikTok Ban While His Administration Works Out a ‘Negotiated Resolution’
East Tennessee State’s rebuilding plan is ahead of the normal timeline according to football coach Tre Lamb. The Bucs finished 7-5 surpassing the win total of the last two seasons combined. After back-to-back 3-8 seasons, Lamb reflected on the progress the program made in his first year as head coach. “I’m really proud of what we accomplished this season. Seven wins was a big deal for us,” Lamb said. “Going into the season, we would have all taken 7-5. We could have been better in certain situations, but we won some close games and lost some close games. Inheriting what we inherited, I’m glad where we’re at.” Lamb believes he knows what the Bucs need to become a championship team. He pointed out if two onside kicks against North Dakota State and Mercer had gone their way, the Bucs were looking at a 9-3 season and a FCS playoff berth. He saw the biggest area of growth as being competitive each time ETSU took the field. “The thing I’m most proud of is the way we competed,” he said. “There were some games like 58-7 (a 2023 loss to Western Carolina), some miserable Saturdays for the guys in the locker room, the coaching staff and fans. There wasn’t one game this year where we didn’t feel we could win. Even the Appalachian game was 17-10 into the third quarter.” Comparing it to his previous four seasons at Gardner-Webb, Lamb said in the first year, the team learned to lose close. The second year, they won close games. The third year, they won big and the fourth year, they were Big South-OVC Co-Champions. “We’ve skipped that first step. Did we lose some close games? Yes, but we also won some close games,” Lamb said. “We’re in the phase where 7-5 shows up 9-3 or 10-2 next year where we beat some teams handily.” Lamb was pleased to see his team grind out a 16-9 win at VMI to end the season. It was a clean game for the Bucs with just one penalty and one turnover. Freshman Baylor Hayes got his first start at quarterback and did what Lamb asked him to do. “That was the thought process going with the young quarterback,” Lamb said. “I knew it wasn’t going to be a 35-31 ballgame. You look at the film and every game they’ve played up there, it’s low scoring and tough to win. I thought he managed the game well. One penalty, one turnover, if we’d had that in half our games, we’d be sitting here 10-2. You look and we’re minus 13 in turnover margin.” Hayes was solid, not spectacular, completing 15 of 25 passes for 119 yards. The coach graded the young signal-caller well for the performance, as he commented a lot of things don’t show up statistically. “We didn’t have any pre-snap penalties and he got us in and out of checks well. That’s some of the things the fans don’t really see,” Lamb said. “At Furman, we check a run into a blitz and we have to punt that drive. Those plays don’t show up on the stat sheet, but that’s what playing quarterback is about. When you’re recruiting or evaluating that position, there is so much more than the tangibles.” The quarterback position is the biggest question mark heading into next season. Lamb has talked to Jaylen King, who started the first nine games for the Bucs, about redshirting to give him time to develop his skills. The coach said there’s about a 50/50 chance that King enters the transfer portal. The coach expects Hayes and former Tennessee High quarterback Steven Johnson to return next season. They’re also looking to bring in a transfer to compete for the starting job. Leading receiver A.J. Johnson announced before the VMI game that he was entering the transfer portal. Johnson, who had 40 catches for 662 yards and six touchdowns, was one of several players who followed Lamb from Gardner-Webb. “It was a mutual decision. I felt some things were leaking into the program affecting the team and he felt different about it,” Lamb said. “Sometimes, you’ve got to cut bait. A.J. decided to go in the portal and I felt that was best for the team. I’ve done a lot for A.J. We took a chance on him at Gardner-Webb, and A.J. has done a lot for me. Sometimes, it’s best for both to part ways. I love him to death and wish him the best.” After bringing in 50 new players in what Lamb described as a hectic January and February, he’s looking more at 18-20 new players this offseason. Of course, that hinges on the coaches being able to retain the existing roster. Lamb said conversations with players over the past two days indicted that 95 percent of them were happy at ETSU. “We’re going to compensate some of our best players. That’s the way it’s working across the country,” Lamb said. “But, these guys aren’t necessarily staying for money. They’re staying because they like where they’re at, they like the staff and how we played this year. All that matters more than the money.”Youths from the Blacksand area in Port Vila have launched a big cleanup campaign that began on Monday. The campaign kicked off at Tagabe and is set to conclude at the roundabout near the University of the South Pacific (USP) Emalus campus. Abel Kalo, Social Activity Coordinator of Divine Presbyterian Church at Blacksand, explained the initiative’s purpose is to engage local youth in positive activities while encouraging a sense of ownership and pride in the capital city. “By participating in the cleanup, the young people are not only improving the environment but also building a connection with Port Vila,” he said. The campaign spans key locations in Port Vila, with local leaders commending the initiative for its potential to instill community responsibility in the youth. “As the cleanup progresses, we encourage more youth from different parts of Port Vila to join, contributing to the city's cleanliness and well-being,” Kalo added. He also urged everyone to help maintain a cleaner city, emphasising its broader benefits. “A cleaner city promotes better health, attracts tourists, and fosters community pride. Port Vila is our home. Together, we can make it a shining example of cleanliness and sustainability,” Kalo stated. The Blacksand youths believe Port Vila Municipality should establish agreements with community groups dedicated to maintaining gardens, beautifying urban areas, and providing waste separation bins. “The city should enforce strict penalties for littering, water pollution, and air pollution, including from vehicles and plastics,” a spokesperson stressed.
Alector halts Alzheimer's trial as drug fails key goal
Pittsburgh Steelers defensive starters DeShon Elliott and Larry Ogunjobi have both been ruled out for this Sunday’s game against the Philadelphia Eagles, despite being spotted at practice on Friday. Both players were listed as did not practice for the third straight day on Friday, despite a somewhat increased level of participation. Elliott ran off to the side, while Ogunjobi worked in some individual drills. Ogunjobi suffered his groin injury in last Sunday’s 27-14 win over the Cleveland Browns . He came back in for one play, but was not able to continue. Ogunjobi has played after not practicing early in the week before, so his status for Friday should be closely monitored. Montravius Adams appears ready to come off the injured reserve list to replace him, if necessary. Adams was a full participant for the third straight practice and has been officially listed as questionable. Strong safety DeShon Elliott has also been ruled out after he missed practice for the third straight day. He finished the game with the Browns after suffering the hamstring injury mid-game, but has not practiced since. Damontae Kazee and Cam Sutton expect to replace Elliott. PITTSBURGH STEELERS INJURY REPORT Pittsburgh Steelers safety DeShon Elliot at practice on Dec. 13, 2024. — Alan Saunders / Steelers Now STEELERS INJURED RESERVE This article first appeared on Steelers Now and was syndicated with permission.None
Jets Reach Out To Mike Tannenbaum To Aid GM, HC SearchA year ago, a gripping ITV drama triggered outrage over the Post Office scandal. Lead campaigner Sir Alan Bates hoped a new Government would at last deliver compensation. Sadly, he was wrong... By KATHRYN KNIGHT Published: 23:39, 27 December 2024 | Updated: 23:39, 27 December 2024 e-mail View comments The letters tumbling on to the mat come from across the world – France , Australia, the US and many more – some just addressed to 'Alan Bates, North Wales.' 'They always seem to find me,' says Alan Bates (now Sir Alan) with a smile. 'I've kept some of the envelopes as it's quite amusing.' But then 70-year-old Bates is something of a worldwide name, much to his surprise. It's all courtesy of his David-versus-Goliath fight for justice for victims of the Post Office Horizon IT scandal – and the ITV drama, Mr Bates vs the Post Office – that brought the story to the world, the first episode of which was broadcast a year ago, on New Year's Day. Against the expectations of the producers, who worried it would not stand up to more obviously bankable programmes, it became the biggest drama of the year. It got 14 million viewers, provoked widespread outrage and made a hero of the unassuming but dogged ex-subpostmaster Bates. And it's been quite the year since: knighted by Princess Anne at a ceremony at Windsor Castle in September, he also married long-term partner Suzanne Sercombe on Sir Richard Branson 's Necker Island. The Virgin tycoon even officiated. Throughout it all there's been the Post Office inquiry, which ended last week after nearly three years and 300 witnesses. It included the extraordinary spectacle of shamed ex-Post Office boss Paula Vennells sobbing in the packed inquiry room. Sir Alan Bates with his wife Suzanne after he was knighted at an investiture ceremony at Windsor Castle in September Sir Richard Branson officiates at their wedding on Necker Island, which took place a month before Alan's knighthood ceremony Alan and Suzanne, speaking exclusively to the Mail from their cottage in Colwyn Bay, Denbighshire, were not exactly moved by this. 'We caught sight of a headline that said Vennells thinks the media were not fair to her. And I just thought "diddums",' says Suzanne, 69. 'She always stuck to the same line – she didn't know anything because she wasn't told anything.' 'It's like saying, "I wasn't in charge really", isn't it?' says Bates, his eyebrows raised. Make no mistake, while the couple have much to celebrate after this busy year, both are still feel a burning injustice, at the 'corporate amnesia' of post office mandarins and the marathon struggle for financial redress. 'That's still my number one role, and I will not settle until that happens,' says Bates. 'But the Government refuses to have deadlines, and they've changed the rules along the way. It's disgusting and it's continuing the injury. It's also wasting a huge amount of money: there's about £700million that has been spent on lawyers' fees so far.' 'I don't think anyone realised it would take so long,' adds Suzanne. Clearly, the pair have an extraordinary stamina – particularly Suzanne, now by Alan's side for 34 years. A steadfast presence in his life, a role she admits has not always been easy – 'you do feel a bit left out sometimes,' she confides – their long-standing relationship took a unexpected turn when, in June, Alan was knighted. He'd turned down an OBE earlier in the year, on principle. 'Paula Vennells got her CBE for services to the Post Office,' he says. 'What service was that, other than ruin a national institution? It's absolutely diabolical, so it would have been an insult to everyone involved. I couldn't take it.' In February, however, Vennells had her CBE stripped for 'bringing the honours system into disrepute'. So in June, Alan felt able to accept a knighthood for services to justice in King Charles' birthday honours. 'It's quite funny actually, as the day I got offered the knighthood was Paula Vennells's first day at the tribunal,' recalls Alan. Toby Jones as Alan in ITV’s hit drama Mr Bates vs the Post Office - that brought the story to the world, the first episode of which was broadcast a year ago, on New Year's Day What the couple – more specifically Suzanne – hadn't anticipated was that, despite being together for over three decades, the fact they were unmarried would come with its own issues when Alan was knighted. 'I had been warned before that if it should happen, I wouldn't be entitled to call myself Lady,' Suzanne recalls. 'I thought, 'I'm just going to have to live with that'. 'But it was actually quite difficult as it made things very awkward. Some people were a bit cruel about it, and kept pointing it out, which I thought was very unnecessary. 'I began to have a bit of an uncomfortable time, and Alan picked up on that. So I think that's what gave it a little bit of a kick as well.' 'It' being the surprise wedding, a month before the knighthood ceremony, on the Caribbean island of Necker – organised behind Suzanne's back with Sir Richard Branson as officiant. The business magnate offered the couple a holiday there after reading they'd not had a proper break in decades. Today, Bates has nothing but praise for Branson. 'We spent quite a bit of time with Richard and he put us very much at ease,' he says. He was also able to give him a useful insight ahead of Bates's big day at Windsor. 'Because he'd been knighted, he knew the ropes and he said when you go, it's a bit strange, because you don't get offered a cup of tea or anything. And it's true. It's very in and out.' Today, Suzanne confides she's more than happy to be Lady Bates. 'I think it's very useful, you're in an awkward situation, and you can exert or give a little impression of power,' she says with a wry smile. 'So yes. I'm very happy to use it.' Titles aside though, the Bates's priorities haven't changed and they remain determined to fight for those whose lives have been ruined. The backdrop to their battle barely needs retelling, so well cemented is it in the public mind as one of the biggest miscarriages of justice in modern British history. From the mid-1990s, the Post Office rolled out faulty software, Horizon, provided by the Japanese firm Fujitsu, which led them to wrongly conclude that hundreds of postmasters were stealing money. Many were taken to court, convicted of fraud and imprisoned. Others took their own lives due to financial pressures and shame. 'People have died since the fight began without clearing their names, says Bates. 'There are people being backed into settlements because of age and illness. I know someone in their 80s who has been at this for 20 odd years, and they just accepted an offer as they cannot go on further.' The shamed ex-Post Office boss Paula Vennells. In February, she had her CBE stripped for 'bringing the honours system into disrepute' Despite the length of Alan and Suzanne's battle, it wasn't until last January that interest peaked when the ITV drama introduced millions of viewers to the injustice done to subpostmasters and mistresses It says much that Bates thinks of himself as one of the 'lucky' ones –despite a fight that has consumed over two decades. With Suzanne, then a special needs teacher, in May 1998 Alan Bates took over The Wool Post, a post office and haberdashery in Craig-y-Don, Llandudno, North Wales, investing £65,000. Five years later – after repeated attempts to raise concerns over the accounting system – his contract was terminated and while he was not prosecuted, his £65,000 investment wasn't returned. Convinced corporate chicanery was at play, Bates sought out other subpostmasters in the same position and went on to found the Justice For Subpostmasters Alliance, comprising 555 subpostmasters who went on to successfully take the Post Office to court. It was a debilitating fight. While following two favourable judgments the group accepted a settlement of £57.75 million, the 555 claimants were left with little money after legal fees were paid. So the fight went on. An independent inquiry was set up in September 2020, becoming a statutory inquiry six months later. This gave the chair powers to call witnesses – including Vennells and other senior figures who seemed unable to recall key decisions. The Metropolitan Police are now investigating whether criminality is involved. 'If they hadn't, we as a group would have been looking at going after private prosecutions. But it's great that the Met are involved. 'I certainly wouldn't be surprised if custodial sentences come out of it,' Bates says. Despite the length of their battle – and support from the Mail and others – it wasn't until last January that interest peaked when the ITV drama introduced millions of viewers to the injustice done to subpostmasters and mistresses. 'I remember the producer saying that on the day it was aired there was lots of other stuff on – don't expect too much. then it took everyone by surprise,' Bates says. Played by actor Toby Jones, Bates admits seeing himself brought to life on screen discombobulating. 'There were a few odd things,' he smiles. 'In the drama, Toby used to go down to London in his windcheater and I think every time I went to London I was in a suit. Things like that. Read More EXCLUSIVE Exactly what happened to the Outnumbered cast: Revealed by KATHRYN KNIGHT 'But Toby did a great job, and it must have been awkward for him, because I have certain mannerisms, and I really do nag at people. He was a bit more laidback.' Adds Suzanne: 'The house they put us in in the drama is a beautiful house, but nothing like the one we actually live in. people were thinking, 'What's their problem? They live in a lovely house'.' Four different compensation schemes are currently running to reflect the different experiences of the subpostmasters involved. But while the Post Office has so far paid about £438 million to 3,100 claimants, many still have not been paid, while other families have been offered what Bates calls 'arbitrary' amounts. The scheme he is involved in – the GLO or Group Litigation Order scheme to cover the 555 involved in the original lawsuit –has already had deadlines moved, and Bates has not received a penny, having turned down an offer for around a sixth of the amount he first claimed for. With no end game in sight, he has resorted to writing to Sir Keir Starmer to expedite matters. 'I wrote to the Prime Minister on two occasions recently to ask him to set deadlines to resolve the whole of this for the GLO group, but all I got back was standard civil service letters,' he says. 'I don't know if he actually even read anything. 'Someone asked me whether the change of Government had made any difference? And I said no, because the civil service is still the same, they're the tail that's wagging the dog.' One fact remains: no amount of prosecutions or cash can buy back the years lost for those involved. 'It doesn't matter what money people get because they'll never get back those 20 years of misery,' Bates says. 'All that this money is going to do is hopefully cushion people a little bit for what's left of their lives.' He plans to write a book. 'It'll be about the early years. That's one of the things I get contacted about most – people with other fights on their hands asking how did we manage, what can we do?' 'They tend to think Alan has the answer to everything,' interjects Suzanne with a smile. Not quite everything of course. But it's clear that Sir Alan Bates could certainly teach many people a thing or two. ITV France Richard Branson Share or comment on this article: A year ago, a gripping ITV drama triggered outrage over the Post Office scandal. Lead campaigner Sir Alan Bates hoped a new Government would at last deliver compensation. Sadly, he was wrong... e-mail Add commentNone