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No. 25 Illinois rebounds in big way, blasts UMES 87-40WASHINGTON (AP) — President Joe Biden faces a stark choice as he contemplates broad preemptive pardons to protect aides and allies from potential retribution by Donald Trump: Does he hew to the institutional norms he’s spent decades defending or flex the powers of the presidency in untested ways? The deliberations so far are largely at the level of White House lawyers. But the president has discussed the topic with senior aides, according to two people familiar with the matter who spoke on condition of anonymity to discuss the sensitive subject. No decisions have been made, the people said, and it is possible Biden opts to do nothing at all. Biden is taking the idea seriously and has been thinking about it for as much as six months — before the presidential election — but has been concerned about the precedent it would set, according to another person familiar with the president’s discussions who spoke to The Associated Press on condition of anonymity. Pardons are historically afforded to those accused of specific crimes –- and usually to those who have already been convicted of an offense — but Biden’s team is considering issuing them for some who have not even been investigated, let alone charged. The president could, if he chooses, issue blanket pardons to specific people whom Trump and his allies have threatened to punish. Or he could pardon a broad class of people — not unlike pardons issued to those convicted of federal marijuana offenses or those ensnared in the “don't ask, don't tell” military policies. Either way, he'd be using the powers of the presidency in a new way. Some worry that Trump and his allies, who have talked of enemies lists and exacting “retribution,” could launch investigations that would be reputationally and financially costly for targeted people even if they don’t result in prosecutions. The door has already been opened, given that Biden has extended a broad pardon to his son, Hunter , who was convicted and pleaded guilty in tax and gun cases. Biden explained that decision by saying he believed the prosecution of his son had been poisoned by politics. White House press secretary Karine Jean-Pierre said Friday that Biden plans additional pardons before leaving office though she would not elaborate on the process. She repeatedly referenced “changing factors” that motivated the president to pardon his son despite promising he wouldn’t. She said Republicans have continued to try to see Hunter Biden investigated for an array of alleged offenses, a rationale that could support additional pardons for Biden aides and allies. It was two weeks ago that one of the president’s closest allies in Congress, Rep, Jim Clyburn of South Carolina, encouraged Biden to pardon his son Hunter. The morning after that conversation, Clyburn told Biden’s staff that he believed the president should also pardon those being targeted by Trump. “I was very forceful in my discussions with him about what I thought he ought to do regarding his son,” Clyburn said Friday. “But I also told them that I thought he ought to go even further, because all the noise about Jack Smith and Liz Cheney and Doctor Fauci and all of that.” Special Counsel Jack Smith has been investigating Trump for his efforts to overturn the 2020 presidential election and for accusations he hoarded classified documents at his home. Liz Cheney, a conservative Republican , was the vice chairwoman of the congressional committee investigating the Jan. 6, 2021, Capitol insurrection and campaigned for Vice President Kamala Harris. Fauci, an infectious disease expert, was instrumental in the government's response to the coronavirus. All have raised the ire of Trump. Clyburn said he told Biden’s team, only half jokingly, that because the Supreme Court has already said that the president has certain immunities, “let’s give that same immunity to Jack Smith for carrying out his duties and to, Doctor Fauci, Liz Cheney, they were carrying out their duties.” Among those mentioned publicly for possible presidential pardons, there are different sentiments on whether pardons would even be wanted. Former House Speaker Nancy Pelosi supported the president’s move to pardon his son, but has been silent on the speculation that Biden is considering additional pardons for her or others. A top Pelosi ally, Rep. Adam Schiff, the Democratic congressman who led Trump’s first impeachment, has panned the idea of pardoning Biden's allies. He says “the courts are strong enough to withstand” the worst of Trump’s threats. “I don’t think a preemptive pardon makes sense,” the incoming senator told NPR recently. “I would urge the president not to do that. I think it would seem defensive and unnecessary,” Schiff said. Democratic Rep. Jamie Raskin, who was the lead manager on Trump’s second impeachment, on the charge of inciting the Jan. 6, 2021, insurrection at the Capitol, said members of Congress already are protected by the speech and debate clause in the Constitution, which protects them prosecution for participating in their legislative duties. Raskin said figures like Mark Milley, the former chairman of the Joint Chiefs of Staff, and John Kelly , Trump's former White House chief of staff, would similarly be protected by the First Amendment. But Raskin said the question is, “Should they go through the criminal investigation and prosecution for not doing anything wrong? I think that’s why this whole issue has erupted.” Raksin added that with Trump promising to pardon hundreds of people who assaulted police officers on Jan. 6th, “I can hardly fault President Biden for exploring the use of the pardon to protect people from a fraudulent and unjust prosecution.” House Democratic Leader Hakeem Jeffries said he’s had no conversations with the White House regarding any preemptive pardons for current or former members of Congress. ___ Associated Press Writers Kevin Freking and Lolita C. Baldor contributed to this report. Colleen Long, Zeke Miller And Lisa Mascaro, The Associated Press"Lorem ipsum dolor sit amet, consectetur adipiscing elit, sed do eiusmod tempor incididunt ut labore et dolore magna aliqua. Ut enim ad minim veniam, quis nostrud exercitation ullamco laboris nisi ut aliquip ex ea commodo consequat. Duis aute irure dolor in reprehenderit in voluptate velit esse cillum dolore eu fugiat nulla pariatur. Excepteur sint occaecat cupidatat non proident, sunt in culpa qui officia deserunt mollit anim id est laborum." Section 1.10.32 of "de Finibus Bonorum et Malorum", written by Cicero in 45 BC "Sed ut perspiciatis unde omnis iste natus error sit voluptatem accusantium doloremque laudantium, totam rem aperiam, eaque ipsa quae ab illo inventore veritatis et quasi architecto beatae vitae dicta sunt explicabo. Nemo enim ipsam voluptatem quia voluptas sit aspernatur aut odit aut fugit, sed quia consequuntur magni dolores eos qui ratione voluptatem sequi nesciunt. Neque porro quisquam est, qui dolorem ipsum quia dolor sit amet, consectetur, adipisci velit, sed quia non numquam eius modi tempora incidunt ut labore et dolore magnam aliquam quaerat voluptatem. Ut enim ad minima veniam, quis nostrum exercitationem ullam corporis suscipit laboriosam, nisi ut aliquid ex ea commodi consequatur? Quis autem vel eum iure reprehenderit qui in ea voluptate velit esse quam nihil molestiae consequatur, vel illum qui dolorem eum fugiat quo voluptas nulla pariatur?" 1914 translation by H. Rackham "But I must explain to you how all this mistaken idea of denouncing pleasure and praising pain was born and I will give you a complete account of the system, and expound the actual teachings of the great explorer of the truth, the master-builder of human happiness. No one rejects, dislikes, or avoids pleasure itself, because it is pleasure, but because those who do not know how to pursue pleasure rationally encounter consequences that are extremely painful. Nor again is there anyone who loves or pursues or desires to obtain pain of itself, because it is pain, but because occasionally circumstances occur in which toil and pain can procure him some great pleasure. To take a trivial example, which of us ever undertakes laborious physical exercise, except to obtain some advantage from it? But who has any right to find fault with a man who chooses to enjoy a pleasure that has no annoying consequences, or one who avoids a pain that produces no resultant pleasure?" 1914 translation by H. Rackham "But I must explain to you how all this mistaken idea of denouncing pleasure and praising pain was born and I will give you a complete account of the system, and expound the actual teachings of the great explorer of the truth, the master-builder of human happiness. No one rejects, dislikes, or avoids pleasure itself, because it is pleasure, but because those who do not know how to pursue pleasure rationally encounter consequences that are extremely painful. Nor again is there anyone who loves or pursues or desires to obtain pain of itself, because it is pain, but because occasionally circumstances occur in which toil and pain can procure him some great pleasure. To take a trivial example, which of us ever undertakes laborious physical exercise, except to obtain some advantage from it? But who has any right to find fault with a man who chooses to enjoy a pleasure that has no annoying consequences, or one who avoids a pain that produces no resultant pleasure?" To keep reading, please log in to your account, create a free account, or simply fill out the form below.
The Fayette County Board of Education will hold the first reading of a new substance abuse policy during its Tuesday, Dec. 17 regular session at the office in Fayetteville. The policy will cover the school system’s CDL (bus) drivers, according to Superintendent Gary Hough. “The Federal Motor Carrier organization (Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration) required us to put that wording, specific regulations that they wanted in there,” Hough said Monday afternoon. “(The FMCSA) provided the template to all the transportation directors across the state,” Anna Kincaid-Cline, the associate superintendent of curriculum, technology and instruction, added. “Our transportation director meets with all our bus drivers and they go over that entire policy with them. The county’s transportation director is Matt Harper. The superintendent will recommend the BOE approve the resolution’s first reading. Also to be considered, and recommended for approval by Hough, will be a resolution from the board to urge the state to stabilize the Public Employees Insurance Agency (PEIA), which provides insurance coverage for state, county and local public employees. Those covered by PEIA will face significant increases in premiums and costs beginning with the next fiscal year in July. “Making two adjustments to their initial plan, the finance board for the West Virginia Public Employees Insurance Agency on (Dec. 5) signed off on roughly $113 million in premium and cost increases for employees during the 2026 fiscal year,” Lori Kersey wrote in West Virginia Watch. “Premiums for state employees will increase by 14% while local government employees will see a 16% increase. The agency will also raise premiums by 12% for retirees. ... “Both state and county employees using PEIA will see an increase of 40% in their out-of-pocket maximum as well as increases in co-pays,” Kersey wrote. “A monthly spousal surcharge for state employees will more than double, from $147 to $350. The state and local fund employer administration fee will increase by $2.50.” In other action at the 6 p.m. Tuesday meeting, the BOE will consider an out-of-state trip for Divide Elementary School’s fifth grade students to the Columbus Zoo on May 23, 2025. Travel will be by charter bus and funding will be from the Divide Elementary PTO and fundraising activities. The board also will take action on past meeting minutes, financial and personnel matters, will hear a report from the superintendent and present points of personal privilege: climate and culture — Pat Gray, president; extracurricular and Southern Education Services Cooperative — Gary Ray, vice president; achievement and Fayette County Parks & Recreation Advisory Board — Joshua Crist; operations/safety and WVU Extension Service (4-H) — Joseph Groom; and social emotional wellness and Family Resource Network (FRN) — Cindy Whitlock. The superintendent also recommends the approval of a student disposition in an executive session for a student discipline hearing. Future meetings are scheduled as follows: regular meeting — Tuesday, Jan. 7, 6 p.m., BOE office; LSIC meeting for Ansted Elementary, Divide Elementary and Midland Trail High — Tuesday, Jan. 14, 6 p.m., Midland Trail High School, Hico; and regular meeting — Tuesday, Jan. 21, 6 p.m., BOE office.
LIMASSOL, Cyprus, Nov. 25, 2024 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) -- Forex trading is one of the most dynamic sectors in the world financial landscape, and thus it needs the most reliable, fast, and innovative platform service provision. Exness has taken the lead in this group of service providers by making available tools that allow traders to operate with high levels of precision and efficiency. It has thus introduced a new benchmark to the industry that focuses on advanced technology and user-friendly experiences for both seasoned professionals and newbies. Where most provide just the basics, this one goes that extra mile through the provision of some sophisticated and advanced trading features that really step up every analysis and execution trading aspect. Such innovative dedication helps build not just traders' confidence but also the platform's standing as a Forex market leader. Cutting-Edge Technology in Forex Trading Global trading requires interfaces as fast as the changes in currency pairs. Built on cutting-edge infrastructure, the platform ensures the fastest execution speeds and rock-solid stability-all these critical qualities for traders who need to be able to act on opportunities without delay, especially in volatile conditions. Arguably, the most prominent one is the provision of real-time data and, hence, insight-driven decision-making, which would not otherwise be possible without such advanced technology in the first place-not leaving anything to guess for the trader and making him competitive. The tools offered are not only designed for precision but are also customizable, allowing users to adapt them to their specific trading styles and strategies. Moreover, the platform's focus on user experience ensures that even complex tools are accessible and straightforward to use. This accessibility enables traders at all levels to harness the power of advanced analytics and execute their trades effectively. Advanced Platform Features Tailored for Professionals A trading terminal may serve different trading styles, whether the one who prefers short-term trading and quick market moves or believes in long-term strategies, because it has features to cater to these needs. It combines analytical tools with practical functionalities, allowing traders to stay organized and efficient. Additionally, the terminal integrates features like customizable layouts and advanced reporting tools, which help traders refine their approach over time. This adaptability makes it an indispensable resource for those seeking a professional-grade trading experience. The Role of The Apps in Streamlining Trading One of the most significant tools available on the platform is MetaTrader5. Recognized globally for its robust capabilities, it allows traders to analyze markets in-depth, develop strategies, and execute trades with unparalleled accuracy. High-featured software, more advanced chart drawing tools, technical indicators, multi-timeframe analysis The MT5 app also supports algorithmic trading-this is particularly useful for traders wanting to automate their strategies. It offers automated systems testing and implementation, thereby enabling systems to execute without the trader being physically present in front of the system at the time of market execution. Integration of this platform with the broker offers an enriched feel where performance meets innovation. MetaTrader5 is much more than a trading interface; it is rather a dynamic and flexible trading software for the fluctuations of the forex markets. Offering it in the roster reiterates the dedication to arming traders with the best tools available. Innovation That Drives Success The app's commitment to being innovative is seen in continuously developing tools that reflect the changing needs of traders as the industry is technology-oriented if one is to stay ahead, not just to adopt but actively shape new trends. This platform does so by investing in advanced solutions that work to simplify the trade process while enhancing accuracy. Whether it's automated systems or risk management supporting tools, focus remains on providing the trader everything he needs to succeed. In addition to that, there are trader communities providing educational help and insight sharing. By that kind of cooperation, it would be ensured that users would not only enhance their skills but also gain confidence in engaging with even complex markets. Why This Platform Stands Out In a crowded market of trading platforms, this one has distinguished itself as the most user-friendly choice on the market today. It makes use of MetaTrader5 and trades through the trading terminal available to bring the best features to the fingertips of the traders and improve their overall performance. Unlike platforms that merely focus on offering basic functionalities, this one prioritizes a holistic trading experience. From ensuring stability during high-volatility events to offering tools that support strategic growth, every aspect is designed to add value. This provides a very reliable and advanced trading solution for the traders demanding power and adaptability. It ensures that it stays ahead into the future of the ever-evolving currency trading industry while empowering its users to confidently achieve their set goals. Nina Ivkova, [email protected] A photo accompanying this announcement is available at https://www.globenewswire.com/NewsRoom/AttachmentNg/dc6f9a32-a901-45d9-ad60-414a81f7242f
Budgetary system & fiscal governance
BEIRUT (AP) — Thousands of people fled the central Syrian city of Homs, the country’s third largest, as insurgents seized two towns on the outskirts Friday, positioning themselves for an assault on a potentially major prize in their march against President Bashar Assad. The move, reported by pro-government media and an opposition war monitor, was the latest in the stunning advances by opposition fighters over the past week that have so far met little resistance from Assad’s forces. A day earlier, fighters captured the central city of Hama , Syria’s fourth largest, after the army said it withdrew to avoid fighting inside the city and spare the lives of civilians. The insurgents, led by the jihadi Hayat Tahrir al-Sham group, or HTS, have vowed to march to Homs and the capital, Damascus, Assad’s seat of power. Videos circulating online showed a highway jammed with cars full of people fleeing Homs, a city with a large population belonging to Assad’s Alawite sect, seen as his core supporters. If Assad’s military loses Homs, it could be a crippling blow. The city, parts of which were controlled by insurgents until 2014, stands at an important intersection between Damascus and Syria’s coastal provinces of Latakia and Tartus, where Assad enjoys wide support. Homs province is Syria’s largest in size and borders Lebanon, Iraq and Jordan. The city is also home to one of Syria’s two state-run oil refineries. Pressure on the government intensified from multiple directions. Opposition protesters stormed security posts and army positions in the southern province of Sweida, opposition activists said. U.S.-backed Kurdish forces who control eastern and northeastern Syria began to encroach on government-held territory. After years of largely being bottled up in a northwest corner of the country, the insurgents burst out a week ago, captured the northern city of Aleppo, Syria’s largest , and have kept advancing since. Government troops have repeatedly fallen back. The sudden offensive has flipped the tables on a long-entrenched stalemate in Syria’s nearly 14-year-old civil war. Along with HTS, the fighters include forces of an umbrella group of Turkish-backed Syrian militias called the Syrian National Army. Turkey has denied backing the offensive , though experts say insurgents would not have launched it without the country's consent. HTS’s leader, Abu Mohammad al-Golani, told CNN in an exclusive interview Thursday from Syria that Assad’s government was on the path to falling, propped up only by Russia and Iran. “The seeds of the regime’s defeat have always been within it,” he said. “But the truth remains, this regime is dead.” A key question about Assad’s ability to fight back is how much top ally Russia — whose troops back Assad’s forces — will throw support his way at a time when it is tied up in the war in Ukraine. Russian Foreign Minister Sergey Lavrov said he planned to discuss the developments in Syria with his Turkish and Iranian counterparts at a meeting Friday in the Qatari capital, Doha. In an interview with former Fox News host Tucker Carlson, he said international actors were backing the insurgents’ advances and that he would discuss “the way to cut the channels of financing and arming them.” Meanwhile, Russia’s embassy in Syria issued a notice reminding Russian citizens that they may use commercial flights to leave the country “in view of the difficult military-political situation.” The foreign ministers of Iran, Iraq and Syria — three close allies — gathered Friday in Baghdad to consult on the rapidly changing war. Syrian Foreign Minister Bassam Sabbagh said the current developments may pose “a serious threat to the security of the region as a whole.” The insurgent fighters on Friday took over the central towns of Rastan and Talbiseh, putting them 5 kilometers (3 miles) from Homs, according to the Britain-based Syrian Observatory for Human Rights, an opposition war monitor. “The battle of Homs is the mother of all battles and will decide who will rule Syria,” said Rami Abdurrahman, the Observatory’s chief. Pro-government Sham FM said the insurgents entered Rastan and Talbiseh without facing any resistance. There was no immediate comment from the Syrian military. The Observatory said Syrian troops had left Homs. But the military denied that in comments reported by the state news agency SANA, saying troops were reinforcing their positions in the city and were “ready to repel” any assault. In eastern Syria, the Kurdish-led Syrian Democratic Forces coalition said it had moved into the government-held half of the city of Deir el-Zour, apparently without resistance. One of the main cities in the east, Deir el-Zour had long been split between the government on the western side of the Euphrates River and the SDF on the eastern side. The SDF also said it took control of further parts of the border with Iraq. That appeared to bring it closer to the government-held Boukamal border crossing. The crossing is a vital for the government because it is the gateway to the corridor to Iran, a supply line for Iran-backed fighters, including Lebanon’s Hezbollah. At the same time, insurgents seized Syria’s sole crossing to Jordan, according to opposition activists. Jordan announced it was closing its side of the crossing. Lebanon also closed all but one of its border crossings with Syria. The opposition assault has struck a blow to Syria’s already decrepit economy. On Friday, the U.S. dollar was selling on Syria’s parallel market for about 18,000 pounds, a 25% drop from a week ago. When Syria’s conflict erupted in March 2011, a dollar was valued at 47 pounds. The drop further undermines the purchasing power of Syrians at a time when the U.N. has warned that 90% of the population is below the poverty line. Syria’s economy has been hammered for years by the war, Western sanctions, corruption and an economic meltdown in neighboring Lebanon, Syria’s main gate to the outside world. Damascus residents told The Associated Press that people are rushing to markets to buy food, fearing further escalation. The worsening economy could be undermining the ability of Syria’s military to fight, as the value of soldiers’ salaries melts away while the insurgents are flush with cash. Syria’s military has not appeared to put up a cohesive counteroffensive against the opposition advances. SANA on Friday quoted an unnamed military official as saying the Syrian and Russian air forces were striking insurgents in Hama province, killing dozens of fighters. Syria’s defense minister said in a televised statement late Thursday that government forces withdrew from Hama as “a temporary tactical measure” and vowed to gain back lost areas. “We are in a good position on the ground,” Gen. Ali Mahmoud Abbas said, saying troops remained “at the gates of Hama.” He spoke before the opposition advanced further south toward Homs. He said the insurgents, whom he described as “takfiri” or Muslim extremists, are backed by foreign countries. He did not name the countries but appeared to be referring to Turkey and the United States. Associated Press writers Albert Aji in Damascus, Syria, and Suzan Fraser in Ankara, Turkey, contributed to this report.
MT Democrats project confidence in Medicaid expansion passageSale Runs Through February 28, 2025 FT. LAUDERDALE, Fla. , Dec. 16, 2024 /PRNewswire/ -- Princess Cruises, the most iconic cruise brand in the world, today unveiled its Come Aboard Sale, offering fantastic savings on cruises across the globe. Now is the perfect time to plan a dream vacation with up to 40% off cruise fares, free room upgrades, $99 deposits, and free sailings for 3rd and 4th guests in the same stateroom. The Come Aboard Sale runs through February 28, 2025 , and promises something for everyone, with incredible perks on select 2025, 2026 and 2027 cruises, including*: "No matter what you love, you'll find it on a Princess cruise - from our award-winning cuisine, awe-inspiring adventures in port and entertainment that wows, to our friendly crew who make you feel at home and always welcome," said Terry Thornton , Princess Cruises Chief Commercial Officer. "Princess provides a timeless cruise experience, and our 'Come Aboard Sale' makes is easier than ever to book a dream vacation on 'The Love Boat.'" Whether exploring the wilds of Alaska , the fairytale villages of Europe , the beckoning beaches of the Caribbean , and many more destinations, options abound for every preference. Example Come Aboard Sale fares include: Save $1,400 or more when booking a Sanctuary Collection Suite, Mini-Suite or Balcony on the all-new Sun Princess and the soon-to-debut Star Princess, now through Feb. 28, 2025 . The promotion is applicable to more than 250 cruises in 2025 and 2026 with itineraries in Alaska , California Coast, Caribbean , Europe , Panama Canal, and Transatlantic voyages. Plus, guests can book with confidence knowing the Better than Best Price Guarantee has been extended through December 15, 2025 . If guests find a better cruise fare on Princess.com for the same Princess cruise, stateroom category, and sail date at any time before their final payment, Princess will provide 120% of the difference in the form of an onboard credit. Princess also features the line's exclusive MedallionClass technology offering personalized, premium service, reinforcing Princess Cruises' reputation for delivering exceptional vacations. The Come Aboard Sale runs now through 11:59 pm PT on February 28, 2025 , and is available to residents of all 50 United States, Canada , Puerto Rico , Mexico , Bermuda and the District of Columbia . More details and exclusions can be found at https://www.princess.com/en-us/cruise-deals-promotions/limited-time-offer . Additional information about Princess Cruises is available through a professional travel advisor, by calling 1-800-Princess (1-800-774-6237) or by visiting www.princess.com . About Princess Cruises Princess Cruises is The Love Boat, the world's most iconic cruise brand that delivers dream vacations to millions of guests every year in the most sought-after destinations on the largest ships that offer elite service personalization and simplicity customary of small, yacht-class ships. Well-appointed staterooms, world class dining, grand performances, award-winning casinos and entertainment, luxurious spas, imaginative experiences and boundless activities blend with exclusive Princess MedallionClass service to create meaningful connections and unforgettable moments in the most incredible settings in the world - the Caribbean , Alaska , Panama Canal, Mexican Riviera, Europe , South America , Australia / New Zealand , the South Pacific, Hawaii , Asia , Canada /New England, Antarctica, and World Cruises. Sun Princess, the brand's new, next-level Love Boat named Condé Nast Traveler's Mega Ship of the Year, introduces the groundbreaking Sphere Class platform and will be joined by sister ship, Star Princess, in Fall 2025. The company is part of Carnival Corporation & plc (NYSE/LSE:CCL; NYSE:CUK). *Come Aboard Sale Limited Time Offer Disclaimer GENERAL TERMS APPLICABLE TO ALL OFFERS IN THIS ADVERTISEMENT("Offer(s)"): Offers only available to legal residents of North America . Offers only available for new bookings, on select cruises, on a limited availability, are capacity controlled (regardless of stateroom availability), and may not be combined with other offers or promotions (aside from those listed herein). Other exclusions may apply; void where prohibited. Changes or refunds may not be permitted. Offers and their parts (if any) are not transferable, not substitutable, and not redeemable for cash. Princess Cruise Lines , Ltd. ("PCL") is not responsible or liable for any errors, including printing or other errors. PCL may change or revoke Offers at any time. A deposit is required for all stateroom guests. All values quoted in USD. Offers valid on bookings made 12/16/24 - 2/28/25 . Please refer to princess.com for terms, conditions, and details that apply to all bookings. Fares are per guest and apply to minimum lead-in categories on a space available basis at time of booking. Fares for other categories may vary. Fares are non-air, cruise- or cruisetour-only, based on double occupancy and apply to the first two guests in a stateroom only. These fares do not apply to singles or third/fourth-berth guests. All cruise fares are inclusive of government-imposed taxes and fees. Government-imposed taxes and fees include but are not limited to any and all fees, tolls and taxes imposed by a governmental authority such as wharfage, head taxes, dockage, Panama canal tolls, US Customs fees, immigration and naturalization fees, government inspection fees, hotel or VAT taxes as part of a land tour, air taxes, and similar government-imposed taxes and fees for the performance of the cruise. Government-imposed taxes and fees are subject to change and PCL reserves the right to collect any increases in effect at the time of sailing even if the fare has already been paid in full. Up to 40% off fares Offer - Discount based off applicable Launch Fare, which fare excludes government-imposed taxes, fees and expenses. Offer available on a space-available basis at time of booking, on select categories and sailings. Discount applies to cruise standard fare element only and is based on destination and stateroom category and does not apply to Princess Plus or Premier packages, or any cruise tour and/or land tour elements, even when included in the cruise fare. Discount only applies to first two guests in a stateroom. Free Room Upgrade Offer applies to booking the stateroom location you wish to sail in for the price of the lowest non-guarantee category within that stateroom type during this Offer only and is subject to availability. Offer is based on availability in like-to-like stateroom types (Interior to Interior, Oceanview to Oceanview, Balcony to Balcony, Mini-Suite to Mini-Suite). Offer excludes upgrades on select categories, including but not limited to Sancturary Collection, premium categories and suites. Offer does not apply to land portion of a cruisetour. In order to take advantage of the upgrade, guest must select and book the upgraded room type during checkout, but cannot select the highest cabin category for such stateroom type as a part of the upgrade. Guests that book a lower room type in a stateroom category may not be upgraded, even if there is availability for the upgrade. Guests that book the highest cabin classification of stateroom category will be charged the full category fare and will NOT receive the lowest fare for such category. Guests will only see (and pay for) the lowest fare within the selected room type and will not see any discounted amount at checkout. If you are unable to book an eligible upgraded room type, the upgrade is not available on such room for that category or cruise. Free 3rd & 4th guest offer applies to cruise fare only for recipient and guests covered by the complimentary offer (if any) and excludes Government Taxes & Fees, and the Required Cruise Fees & Expenses. Also excludes required deposit (if any) and other cruise-related expenses and travel expenses. Actual amounts owed by recipient and applicable guests may vary and shall be calculated at the time of booking. First or Second guest in stateroom will be responsible for their cruise rates as well as the free guest's out of pocket charges and expenses. Offer only applies: (i) to Offer recipient and guests covered by the complimentary cruise Offer (if any) and (ii) to the third or fourth guests booked in the same stateroom as the first and second guests. Approximate value of free sailing for 3rd and 4th guests varies from $99 to $6,759 USD per person. There is no guarantee of Free Offer availability at time of booking. Offer is available on select voyages and guest will know if their selected voyage is available for free 3rd/4th guests if, when selecting to travel with 3rd or 4th guests, whether the fare summary page lists $0 or whether it lists an actual cruise fare amount for such guests. $99 Deposits applies to full, standard deposits only and shall not further reduce already reduced or discounted deposits. Offer not available on World Cruises, Full suites, Sanctuary Collection categories, cruises 45 days or longer, and cruises in which final payment is required. Voyages eligible for select Instant Savings offers require a non-refundable $99 deposit. Princess Cruise Lines LTD's ("PCL") Better Than Best Price Guarantee (the "Guarantee") is only available to legal residents of the 50 US/DC or Canada . If a guest books a cruise between December 16, 2024 and December 15, 2025 for any 2025, 2026, or 2027 cruise departure (the "Original Booking") and such guest finds an active, publicly available (as explained below), and lower Cruise Fare for the identical verified booking on the Princess Cruises' website (Princess.com) prior to the final payment of the cruise (the "Located Cruise Fare"), they can submit a Guarantee claim form and PCL will give the guest an On Board Credit with a value of 120% of the difference between what the guest actually paid for the Original Booking and the Located Cruise Fare. The Located Cruise Fare must be a publicly and currently available Cruise Fare, available on Princess.com , and consist of the identical details as the Original Booking (including but not limited to, on the same ship as the Original Booking, the same sail dates, the same stateroom category, the same number of guests, same bundle (Princess Plus or Princess Premier Package) and be booked under the same conditions) to be eligible. 'Publicly available' means that the Cruise Fare must be available to all guests, without any additional eligibility or required qualifications to qualify; 'publicly available' does not include unpublished, negotiated Cruise Fares with corporations, travel agencies, groups, associations, or other Cruise Fares that are specifically agreed upon by PCL and for a specified and limited group. PCL will only consider/compare the Cruise Fare from the Original Booking against the Cruise Fare from the Located Cruise Fare; no credits or other incentives will be considered. Determination as to whether the Located Cruise Fare is identical to the Original Booking will be in PCL's sole discretion. Located Cruise Fare must be in the same currency that Original Cruise Fare was booked (USD or CAD) and must be live/available for purchase for US/Canadian residents. To submit a Guarantee claim, Guest must fill out a claim form with all required information, including providing screenshot proof of qualifying lower Located Cruise Fare. The form must be submitted prior to the final payment date of the Original Booking's time/date of booking to be considered. Cruise fares on websites that require a password or paid membership to complete the booking, except Princess.com , are also ineligible. Guarantee claim will be denied if PCL is unable to independently verify the Located Cruise Fare and may be rejected if it is incomplete or is submitted in a language not used on Princess.com . PCL may deny claims relating to a time during which there is an outage, technical issue or circumstance beyond PCL's reasonable control. If PCL verifies the guest's Guarantee claim, and PCL awards the guest an OBC, PCL will apply the OBC to the guest's onboard folio. OBC must be used on the Original Cruise, expires at the end of such cruise, and may not be used in the casino . Limit: One (1) Guarantee submission per booking and one (1) OBC per person/booking/stateroom for the Original Booking; such OBC's value cannot exceed $2,000 . OBC will be awarded in the same currency as the currency onboard such cruise. OBC is non-refundable, non-transferable, and has no cash value. All decisions and factors regarding this Guarantee and any claim will be determined by PCL in its sole discretion. PCL reserves discretion for applying this Guarantee and awarding a make good, if any, to a guest. PCL is not responsible for any errors in connection with this Guarantee, including any typos or printing or technology errors. PCL may modify, end, or withdraw this Guarantee or any of its terms for any reason, with or without prior notice. Other restrictions and exclusions may apply. Ships of Bermudan and British Registry. Offer expires: Friday, February 28, 2025 ( 11:59 pm PST ) View original content to download multimedia: https://www.prnewswire.com/news-releases/family-friendly-perks-and-huge-discounts-highlight-princess-cruises-come-aboard-sale-on-2025--2027-sailings-302332930.html SOURCE Princess Cruises
LG USA ANNOUNCES CREATION OF 2025 SUMMER INTERNSHIPS EXCLUSIVELY FOR RUTGERS STUDENT-ATHLETES
Minister of Finance and the Public Service, Hon. Fayval Williams, is urging Caribbean Financial Action Task Force (CFATF) member countries to enhance regional cooperation in order to strengthen anti-money laundering and counter-terrorism financing (AML/CTF) frameworks, thereby safeguarding their financial systems. “Your active participation and expertise are critical in shaping our region’s response to financial crimes. We do understand the gravamen of this awesome task, where the UN (United Nations) Office on Drugs and Crime (UNODC) estimates that annual money laundering volumes range from two per cent to five per cent of global GDP (gross domestic product) or about US$2.2 trillion to US$5.5 trillion,” Mrs. Williams outlined. “This is a never-ending battle, and we must remain forever vigilant. I also cannot overemphasise the importance of the commitment to keep our systems robust and in line with international standards as the most assured way to stay off the Financial Action Task Force’s grey list and the European Union (EU) blacklist, which can be materially detrimental for our financial systems and, by extension, for our economies,” the Minister added. She was addressing the 59th CFATF Plenary and Working Group Meetings opening ceremony at the Princess Grand Hotel in Hanover on Wednesday (December 4). The plenary is being hosted by the Finance Ministry through the Bank of Jamaica (BOJ). CFATF is an organisation of 25 states of the Caribbean Basin, Central and South America, which have agreed to implement common countermeasures to address money laundering. It was established following meetings convened in Aruba in May 1990 and Jamaica in November 1992. The Financial Action Task Force (FATF) grey list identifies countries with strategic deficiencies in their AML/CFT system. Using a tailored action plan, countries on the grey list are assessed by and work with a group of experts to rectify gaps in their systems. Jamaica was recently removed from the grey list, after being placed on it in 2020. The EU blacklist, officially known as the EU List of Non-Cooperative Tax Jurisdictions, comprise countries deemed uncooperative in terms of tax transparency, fair taxation, and anti-base erosion and profit shifting (BEPS) measures. Minister Williams highlighted that some 22 countries have been placed on the FATF’s grey list in recent months, with two being CFATF Member States. “I highlight this statistic for us all to be fundamentally aware of the ongoing importance to keep our systems for identifying, mitigating and managing money laundering, terrorism financing and a proliferation of financing risks, up to date and relevant,” she said. “I urge you to pay keen attention to this area, so as to remain relevant, competent authorities, staying abreast of and utilising technology in regulatory and supervisory environments,” Mrs. Williams underscored. For her part, Minister of Education, Skills, Youth and Information, Senator Dr. the Hon. Dana Morris Dixon, noted that in recent years, Jamaica has made significant strides by integrating advanced analytics and automation into its financial intelligence processes. “The implementation of real-time monitoring systems within our financial institutions has greatly improved our ability to detect, disrupt and dismantle illicit operations. Moreover, we have strengthened the capacity of many of our key players in the fight against money laundering, such as our Financial Investigations Division and MOCA (Major Organised Crime and Anti-Corruption Agency),” she said. “Even the work that the Jamaica Constabulary Force (JCF) is doing... they’re using a lot of technology embedded in their systems so that we can analyse [the] data and identify transactions and activities related to very complex criminal networks. The establishment of specialised task forces to address vulnerabilities identified during our mutual evaluation report was a cornerstone of our strategy,” the Minister added. Senator Morris Dixon commended the Finance Ministry and BOJ for their part in ensuring Jamaica’s removal from the FATF grey list, adding that the island continues to enhance cross-border collaboration by strengthening partnerships with regional and international stakeholders to combat transnational crime. “Jamaica knows what it felt like to be on the grey list and, more importantly, we know the work needed to be removed from the grey list and to also continue the work of securing our countries,” she pointed out. “As we look to the future of our standards, Jamaica aspires for more. We aspire to continuously upgrade our technologies. We’re investing in emerging technologies to stay ahead of evolving criminal operations,” Senator Morris Dixon added. During the plenary, being held from December 1 to 6, representatives of participating member countries will hold discussions on topics of common interest and address deficiencies in their mutual evaluation reports.No. 21 Creighton's Steven Ashworth doubtful for Players Era Festival opener against Aztecs
NoneFormer U.S. President Jimmy Carter has died. He was 100 years old and had spent more than a year in hospice care. The Georgia peanut farmer served one turbulent term in the White House before building a reputation as a global humanitarian and champion of democracy. He defeated President Gerald Ford in 1976 promising to restore trust in government but lost to Ronald Reagan four years later amid soaring inflation, gas station lines and the Iran hostage crisis. He and his wife, Rosalynn Carter, then formed The Carter Center, and he earned a Nobel Peace Prize while making himself the most active and internationally engaged of former presidents. The Carter Center said the former president died Sunday afternoon in Plains, Georgia. Contributing: Associated Press
“Why Can’t I Speak, Germany?” Says Nan Goldin in Searing SpeechJimmy Fallon was listening to one artist on repeat in 2024 — at least according to his Spotify Wrapped. “ Taylor Swift was my top artist,” Fallon, 50, exclusively told Us Weekly at iHeartRadio’s Jingle Ball on Friday, December 13. “I am a Swiftie. I’m a fan of hers since day one. I love her.” Aside from Swift, 35, Fallon revealed that his other top artists this year were Chappell Roan and The Carpenters. While clarifying that he wasn’t referring to Sabrina Carpenter , Fallon quipped that his love for the beloved ’70s band showed his age. “I mean, I took a real curve on my playlist,” Fallon said at the event, which was held at New York City’s Madison Square Garden. “I let my daughters use my Spotify as well, so you can see where dad hopped in. And then The Beatles and then Paul McCartney and John Lennon . But it’s a good mix and it’s an honest mix. I didn’t make it up.” Swift was Spotify’s most-streamed global artist of the year and had the top-streamed album of the year with The Tortured Poets Department . This was Swift’s second year in a row taking home the title of top-streamed artist. Swift was also named top artist of 2024 by Apple Music, while TTPD earned the top album. She received the same accolades from Amazon Music. When he’s not listening to Swift’s discography, Fallon can be found celebrating the success of his own holiday tune . Fallon and the Jonas Brothers’ “Holiday” recently topped the Billboard charts . You have successfully subscribed. By signing up, I agree to the Terms and Privacy Policy and to receive emails from Us Weekly Check our latest news in Google News Check our latest news in Apple News “I never thought any of this would ever happen. I wanted to write a comedy album and I just wanted to make people laugh,” Fallon told Us . “I grew up listening to ‘Weird Al’ Yankovic and Dr. Demento and all the weird comedy songs, so I wanted to make an album, and now I’m just thinking about all the little kids out there that are hearing how much fun you can have and be weird and be creative and write stuff and don’t write what anyone thinks.” Fallon noted that his lyrics came entirely from his brain — no technological assistance required. “AI could not write this, I’ll tell you that,” he quipped. “This is too weird. AI would tell you not to write this, in fact. So that’s what I’m proud of. I really spent a lot of time and work on this and I’m so proud of it. Thanks to anyone who listened to it. I’m very, very grateful.” With reporting by Molly McGuiganCARSON, Calif. — The LA Galaxy and the New York Red Bulls have been Major League Soccer mainstays since the league's inaugural season in 1996, signing glamorous players and regularly competing for championships through years of success and setbacks in a league that's perpetually improving and expanding. Yet just a year ago, both of these clubs appeared to be a very long way from the stage they'll share Saturday in the MLS Cup Final. The Galaxy were one of MLS' worst teams after a season of internal turmoil and public fan dissent, while the Red Bulls were merely a steady mediocrity seeking yet another coach to chart a new direction. A year later, these MLS founders are meeting in the league's first Cup final between teams from North America's two biggest markets. "Two original clubs being able to put themselves in this situation, I think it's great," Galaxy coach Greg Vanney said. "To see two clubs that have been at it as long as this league has been around be here, I think it's a special moment. Couldn't be two more different and contrasting styles as well, which could make for an interesting game, and I would imagine a high-intensity game." Everything changed in 2024 after a dismal decade for the Galaxy, who are favored to cap their transformation by winning their team's record sixth MLS championship with a roster that's dramatically different from its past few groups — albeit with one massive injury absence in the final. The transformation of the Red Bulls happened only in the postseason, when a team that hadn't won a playoff game since 2017 suddenly turned into world-beaters under rookie coach Sandro Schwarz. New York struggled through the final three months of league play with only two wins before posting road playoff victories over defending champ Columbus, archrival New York City FC and conference finalist Orlando to storm into the Cup final. "We know about the history (of our club), and we know tomorrow will define what that could mean," Schwarz said Friday. "To feel the pressure for tomorrow, it's necessary, because it's a final, and without pressure it's not possible to bring the best quality on the field." The Red Bulls have never won an MLS Cup, only reaching the championship match once before. What's more, they've somehow never won a Cup in any tournament, although they've collected three Supporters' Shields for MLS' best regular-season record. The Galaxy's trophy case is large and loaded, and those five MLS Cups are on the top shelf. But not much of that team success happened in the past decade for the club that famously brought David Beckham, Zlatan Ibrahimovic, Robbie Keane, Steven Gerrard and many other international stars to Hollywood. In fact, this season has ended a grim era for the Galaxy, who haven't lost all year at their frequently renamed home stadium — which was the site of protests and boycotts just a year ago. The club's fans were tired of LA's steady underachievement and ineptitude in the front office run by team president Chris Klein, who was fired in May 2023. One year ago Thursday, the Galaxy hired Will Kuntz, a longtime Los Angeles FC executive who engineered his new club's roster transformation, most dramatically by landing new designated players Gabriel Pec and Joseph Paintsil — two international talents that LAFC also had in its sights. "I give Will and the group up there a ton of credit," Vanney said. "It's one thing to have players you like, and it's a whole other thing to get them here and get them to connect with your group." Pec and Paintsil combined for 32 goals and 27 assists while boosting the incumbent talents of striker Dejan Joveljic and Riqui Puig, the gifted Barcelona product who runs the offense from the midfield. The Galaxy clicked in the postseason, scoring a jaw-dropping 16 goals in four matches. Puig has been the Galaxy's most important player all season, but he won't be in the MLS Cup Final after tearing a knee ligament late in last week's conference final victory over Seattle. The loss of Puig — who somehow kept playing on his injured knee, and even delivered the game-winning pass to Joveljic — makes the Galaxy even more difficult to anticipate. "He played a lot in the regular season, so it was not so easy to analyze all these games now without him," Schwarz said. "But the main focus is to analyze what we need to do, because it's not clear now how they're playing without him." The Galaxy could give some of Puig's responsibilities to Marco Reus, the longtime Dortmund standout who joined LA in August. Reus is nursing a hamstring injury, but Vanney expects him to play.
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A federal appeals court panel on Friday unanimously upheld a law that could lead to a ban on TikTok in a few short months, handing a resounding defeat to the popular social media platform as it fights for its survival in the U.S. The U.S. Court of Appeals for the District of Columbia Circuit denied TikTok's petition to overturn the law — which requires TikTok to break ties with its China-based parent company ByteDance or be banned by mid-January — and rebuffed the company's challenge of the statute, which it argued had ran afoul of the First Amendment. “The First Amendment exists to protect free speech in the United States,” said the court's opinion, which was written by Judge Douglas Ginsburg. “Here the Government acted solely to protect that freedom from a foreign adversary nation and to limit that adversary’s ability to gather data on people in the United States.” TikTok and ByteDance — another plaintiff in the lawsuit — are expected to appeal to the Supreme Court, though its unclear whether the court will take up the case. “The Supreme Court has an established historical record of protecting Americans’ right to free speech, and we expect they will do just that on this important constitutional issue," TikTok spokesperson Michael Hughes said in a statement. “Unfortunately, the TikTok ban was conceived and pushed through based upon inaccurate, flawed and hypothetical information, resulting in outright censorship of the American people,” Hughes said. Unless stopped, he argued the statute “will silence the voices of over 170 million Americans here in the US and around the world on January 19th, 2025.” Though the case is squarely in the court system, its also possible the two companies might be thrown some sort of a lifeline by President-elect Donald Trump, who tried to ban TikTok during his first term but said during the presidential campaign that he is now against such action. The law, signed by President Joe Biden in April, was the culmination of a years-long saga in Washington over the short-form video-sharing app, which the government sees as a national security threat due to its connections to China. The U.S. has said it’s concerned about TikTok collecting vast swaths of user data, including sensitive information on viewing habits, that could fall into the hands of the Chinese government through coercion. Officials have also warned the proprietary algorithm that fuels what users see on the app is vulnerable to manipulation by Chinese authorities, who can use it to shape content on the platform in a way that’s difficult to detect — a concern mirrored by the European Union on Friday as it scrutinizes the video-sharing app’s role in the Romanian elections. TikTok, which sued the government over the law in May, has long denied it could be used by Beijing to spy on or manipulate Americans. Its attorneys have accurately pointed out that the U.S. hasn’t provided evidence to show that the company handed over user data to the Chinese government, or manipulated content for Beijing’s benefit in the U.S. They have also argued the law is predicated on future risks, which the Department of Justice has emphasized pointing in part to unspecified action it claims the two companies have taken in the past due to demands from the Chinese government. Friday’s ruling came after the appeals court panel, composed of two Republican and one Democrat appointed judges, heard oral arguments in September. In the hearing, which lasted more than two hours, the panel appeared to grapple with how TikTok’s foreign ownership affects its rights under the Constitution and how far the government could go to curtail potential influence from abroad on a foreign-owned platform. On Friday, all three of them denied TikTok’s petition. In the court's ruling, Ginsburg, a Republican appointee, rejected TikTok's main legal arguments against the law, including that the statute was an unlawful bill of attainder or a taking of property in violation of the Fifth Amendment. He also said the law did not violate the First Amendment because the government is not looking to "suppress content or require a certain mix of content” on TikTok. “Content on the platform could in principle remain unchanged after divestiture, and people in the United States would remain free to read and share as much PRC propaganda (or any other content) as they desire on TikTok or any other platform of their choosing,” Ginsburg wrote, using the abbreviation for the People’s Republic of China. Judge Sri Srinivasan, the chief judge on the court, issued a concurring opinion. TikTok’s lawsuit was consolidated with a second legal challenge brought by several content creators - for which the company is covering legal costs - as well as a third one filed on behalf of conservative creators who work with a nonprofit called BASED Politics Inc. Other organizations, including the Knight First Amendment Institute, had also filed amicus briefs supporting TikTok. “This is a deeply misguided ruling that reads important First Amendment precedents too narrowly and gives the government sweeping power to restrict Americans’ access to information, ideas, and media from abroad,” said Jameel Jaffer, the executive director of the organization. “We hope that the appeals court’s ruling won’t be the last word.” Meanwhile, on Capitol Hill, lawmakers who had pushed for the legislation celebrated the court's ruling. "I am optimistic that President Trump will facilitate an American takeover of TikTok to allow its continued use in the United States and I look forward to welcoming the app in America under new ownership,” said Republican Rep. John Moolenaar of Michigan, chairman of the House Select Committee on China. Democratic Rep. Raja Krishnamoorthi, who co-authored the law, said “it's time for ByteDance to accept” the law. To assuage concerns about the company’s owners, TikTok says it has invested more than $2 billion to bolster protections around U.S. user data. The company has also argued the government’s broader concerns could have been resolved in a draft agreement it provided the Biden administration more than two years ago during talks between the two sides. It has blamed the government for walking away from further negotiations on the agreement, which the Justice Department argues is insufficient. Attorneys for the two companies have claimed it’s impossible to divest the platform commercially and technologically. They also say any sale of TikTok without the coveted algorithm - the platform’s secret sauce that Chinese authorities would likely block under any divesture plan - would turn the U.S. version of TikTok into an island disconnected from other global content. Still, some investors, including Trump’s former Treasury Secretary Steven Mnuchin and billionaire Frank McCourt, have expressed interest in purchasing the platform. Both men said earlier this year that they were launching a consortium to purchase TikTok’s U.S. business. This week, a spokesperson for McCourt’s Project Liberty initiative, which aims to protect online privacy, said unnamed participants in their bid have made informal commitments of more than $20 billion in capital.MONTRÉAL, Dec. 16, 2024 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) -- Earth Alive Clean Technologies Inc. (TSXV: EAC – “Earth Alive” or the “Company”) today announced that it has obtained an order from the Superior Court of Québec (the “ Court ”) extending the delay to file a proposal pursuant to the provisions of the Bankruptcy and Insolvency Act (Canada) (the “ BIA ”) until January 30, 2025. This extension will allow the Company to complete, under the supervision of the Court and with the assistance of the Trustee, its ongoing sale and investment solicitation process (the " SISP "), in order to conclude a transaction with a view to maximizing the value of the Company’s business and assets. The Company will provide further updates as developments regarding the notice of intention (“ NOI ”) proceedings and the SISP warrant. A copy of the relevant information regarding the NOI proceedings and the SISP is available on the Trustee's website at the following address: https://www.raymondchabot.com/en/companies/public-records/earth-alive-clean-technologies-inc/ . Anyone interested in obtaining more information about the NOI proceedings or the SISP should contact the proposal trustee (Ayman Chaaban - Chaaban.Ayman@rcgt.com) or the Company’s legal counsel (Gabriel Lavery Lepage – glaverylepage@dwpv.com). About Earth Alive Clean Technologies Inc. Earth Alive is a leader in the microbial technologies industry. Earth Alive’s innovative products contribute to regenerative agriculture, natural dust suppression with minimal water use, and ecological, human-friendly industrial cleaning. For more information, please visit: https://earthalivect.com . For inquiries, please contact: Nikolaos Sofronis, CEO Phone: 438-316-3562 Email: nsofronis@earthalivect.comThe Māori electoral roll has grown by more than 3000 people - after organisers of the hīkoi mō te Tiriti promoted a switch from the general roll. Data from the Electoral Commission up to 25 November showed 2262 people changed from the general roll to the Māori roll - up from 59 in October. Just 28 people changed from Māori roll to general roll. There were also 862 new enrolments on the Māori roll - up from 29 the previous month. All up, there were 3096 more people on the Māori roll than at the start of the month. Read more: Victoria University senior lecturer in Te Kawa a Māui, the School of Māori Studies, Annie Te One said historically, Māori had not been well represented in the electoral system so any strategy that encouraged more people to vote was a good one. "Whether or not we continue to see this increase on the Māori roll, we have to wait and see but the numbers that have come out just in November are pretty phenomenal and showing this small but significant shift towards the Māori roll." Engaging rangatahi in politics During the hīkoi, organisers encouraged participants to make sure they enrolled to vote in the next election - with much of the messaging aimed at rangatahi (young) Māori. Te Pāti Māori co-leader Rawiri Waititi told the hīkoi if supporters were not enrolled to vote, nothing would change. "We are now 20 percent of the population - we are a million people in this country. That should translate into 19 to 20 seats. We should be determining who the government is every election - that's the strategy. Everybody on the Māori roll." When the hīkoi reached Parliament, rangatahi Atareta Milne was one of the speakers to address the crowd, telling them that young Māori were watching and learning. "I ask you to enrol to vote. I ask you to be on the Māori roll. E mātakitaki ana mātau, e whakarongo ana mātau. (We are watching, we are listening). We need you, for today and for our apōpō!" Read more: Annie Te One said it was vital for other rangatahi to see that happening, to see that they had a voice and could have it heard. "There has been this consistent and, at times, unhelpful narrative that rangatahi Māori are politically apathetic, but that really isn't true. "Rangatahi Māori are really engaged in politics and we've just seen this play out - you know, the likes of Eru Kapa-Kingi, Hana-Rawhiti Maipi-Clarke . These two young Māori, who are just two of many who have been involved in different political movements, are showing us that actually rangatahi Māori are leading this change." The role of social media as a platform to get the messaging out to rangatahi has been huge, she said. And Maipi-Clarke's haka in Parliament helped spread awareness nationally and internationally. "Through this hīkoi, we're seeing that this platform was not only made available for rangatahi Māori - it was actually made available by rangatahi Māori. It was the likes of Hana and Eru who really led the establishment of this." General roll or Māori roll? Overall, 3.65m people are enrolled to vote in Aotearoa. Of those, 563,964 are of Māori descent - with 292,825 (51.9 percent) on the Māori roll and 271,139 (48.1 percent) are on the general roll Since 2023, voters of Māori descent have been free to switch between the Māori roll and the General roll at any time except in the three months before an election. Previously, Māori voters could only switch once every five years, at census time. Annie Te One said a lot of education still needed to be done so Māori were aware of what was a relatively recent change to the electoral system. Those on the Māori roll vote in one of the seven Māori electorates. At the last election, six of those seven seats were won by Te Pāti Māori , the sole exception being Labour MP Cushla Tangaere-Manuel who won the Ikaroa-Rāwhiti seat. There is a historical stigma against the Māori seats which, when combined with a lack of education around how votes on the Māori roll translated to seats, had led to the almost even split of the Māori population between Māori and general rolls, Te One said. "Māori still only have the same number of votes as any other person in Aotearoa who is voting. Our votes don't have more weight than anyone else - it is just the ability to respond to how we want our vote to best translate, whether that's through the Māori electoral roll or through the general electoral roll." The number of people changing rolls during and after the hīkoi showed that flexibility of choice was a good thing, she said. Sign up for Ngā Pitopito Kōrero, a daily newsletter curated by our editors and delivered straight to your inbox every weekday.
Obama still doesn’t get why Trump won. That’s the problem.