GAINESVILLE, Fla. (AP) — DJ Lagway threw two touchdown passes, Montrell Johnson ran for 127 yards and a score, and Florida upset No. 9 Mississippi 24-17 on Saturday to knock the Rebels out of College Football Playoff contention. The Gators (6-5, 4-4 Southeastern Conference), who topped LSU last week, beat ranked teams in consecutive weeks for the first time since 2008 and became bowl eligible. The late-season spurt provided another vote of confidence for coach Billy Napier, who is expected back for a fourth season. Ole Miss (8-3, 4-3), which entered the day as a 10-point favorite, lost for the first time in four games and surely will drop out of the 12-team playoff picture. The Rebels ranked ninth in the latest CFP and needed only to avoid stumbling down the stretch against Florida and lowly Mississippi State to clinch a spot in the playoff field. But coach Lane Kiffin’s team failed to score in three trips inside the red zone and dropped countless passes in perfect weather. No. 2 OHIO ST. 38, No. 5 INDIANA 15 COLUMBUS, Ohio (AP) — Will Howard passed for two touchdowns and rushed for another, TreVeyon Henderson ran for a score and No. 2 Ohio State beat previously undefeated No. 5 Indiana. All Ohio State (10-1, 7-1 Big Ten, CFP No. 2) has to do now is beat Michigan at home next Saturday and it will earn a return to the Big Ten championship game for the first time since 2020 and get a rematch with No. 1 Oregon. The Ducks beat Ohio State 32-31 in a wild one back on Oct. 12. The Hoosiers (10-1, 7-1, No. 5 CFP) had their best chance to beat the Buckeyes for the first time since 1988 but were hurt by special teams mistakes and disrupted by an Ohio State defense that sacked quarterback Kurtis Rourke five times. Howard finished 22 for 26 for 201 yards. Emeka Egbuka had seven catches for 80 yards and a TD. No. 8 GEORGIA 59, UMass 21 ATHENS, Ga. (AP) — Carson Beck threw four touchdown passes, Nate Frazier ran for 136 yards with three scores and No. 8 Georgia overwhelmed Massachusetts as the Bulldogs tried to protect their College Football Playoff hopes. Georgia (9-2, No. 10 CFP) needed the big offense from Beck and Frazier to rescue a defense that gave up 226 rushing yards. UMass (2-9) played its first game under interim coach Shane Montgomery, the offensive coordinator who retained his play-calling duties after replacing fired coach Don Brown on Monday. Jalen John led the Minutemen with 107 rushing yards and a touchdown. Georgia extended its streak of consecutive home wins to 30, the longest active streak in the Football Bowl Subdivision. No. 10 TENNESSEE 56, UTEP 0 KNOXVILLE, Tenn. (AP) — Nico Iamaleava threw for 209 yards and four touchdowns to lead No. 10 Tennessee to a victory over UTEP. The Volunteers (9-2) overcame a sluggish start to roll up the impressive win. Both teams were scoreless in the first quarter, but Tennessee found its rhythm. Grad student receiver Bru McCoy, who hadn’t caught a touchdown pass this season, had two. Peyton Lewis also ran for two scores. Tennessee’s defensive line, which had no sacks in last week’s loss to Georgia, had three against the Miners. UTEP (2-9) struggled with two missed field goals and three turnovers. Tennessee’s offense came alive with 28 points in the second quarter. In the final four drives of the quarter, Iamaleava completed 11 of 12 passes for 146 yards and touchdowns to Squirrel White, Ethan Davis and McCoy. No. 11 MIAMI 42, WAKE FOREST 14 MIAMI GARDENS, Fla. (AP) — Cam Ward passed for 280 yards and threw two touchdowns to Jacolby George on another record-breaking day, Mishael Powell ran an interception back 76 yards for a touchdown and No. 11 Miami pulled away late to beat Wake Forest. The Hurricanes (10-1, 6-1 Atlantic Coast Conference, No. 8 College Football Playoff) can clinch a berth in the ACC title game with a win at Syracuse next weekend. Ward completed 27 of 38 passes, plus ran for a score. He broke two more single-season Miami records, both of which had been held for 40 years by Bernie Kosar — most passing yards in a season and most completions in a season. Ward now has 3,774 yards on 268 completions this season. Kosar threw for 3,642 yards on 262 completions in 1984. Demond Claiborne had a 100-yard kickoff return for a touchdown for Wake Forest (4-7, 2-5). Claiborne also rushed for 62 yards for the Demon Deacons, and starting quarterback Hank Bachmeier was 8 of 14 passing for 86 yards and a touchdown. No. 13 SMU 33, VIRGINIA 7 CHARLOTTESVILLE, Va. (AP) — Kevin Jennings threw for a career-high 323 yards and two touchdowns and ran for another, and No. 13 SMU clinched a spot in the Atlantic Coast Conference championship game by routing Virginia. Isaiah Smith and Jared Harrison-Hunte each had two sacks to help the Mustangs (10-1, 7-0, No. 13 CFP) extend their winning streak to eight. They would earn an automatic bid into the expanded College Football Playoff by beating 11th-ranked Miami or 17th-ranked Clemson in the ACC title game on Dec. 7 in Charlotte, North Carolina. SMU had to get there first, and Jennings led the way again, bouncing back from an interception and a fumble to complete 25 of 33 passes to six different receivers, including TD tosses to Jordan Hudson and Matthew Hibner. Brashard Smith provided a little balance on offense, running for 63 yards and his 13th touchdown of the season. SMU’s defense overwhelmed UVa’s offensive line, sacking Anthony Colandrea nine times and allowing the Cavaliers (5-6, 3-4) just 173 yards. Special teams contributed, too, with Roderick Daniels Jr. returning a punt 48 yards and Collin Rogers making two field goals. No. 24 ILLINOIS 38, RUTGERS 31 PISCATAWAY, N.J. (AP) — Luke Altmyer found Pat Bryant for a catch-and-run, 40-yard touchdown pass with 4 seconds left, sending No. 24 Illinois to a wild victory over Rutgers. Illinois (8-3, 5-3 Big Ten) was down 31-30 when it sent long kicker Ethan Moczulski out for a desperation 58-yard field goal with 14 seconds to go. Rutgers coach Greg Schiano then called for a timeout right before Moczulski’s attempt was wide left and about 15 yards short. After the missed field goal was waved off by the timeout, Illinois coach Bret Bielema sent his offense back on the field. Altmyer hit Bryant on an in cut on the left side at the 22, and he continued across the field and scored untouched in a game that featured three lead changes in the final 3:07. Rutgers (6-5, 3-5) gave up a safety on the final kickoff return, throwing a ball out of bounds in the end zone as players passed it around hoping for a miracle touchdown. Altmyer was 12-of-26 passing for 249 yards and two touchdowns. Bryant finished with seven receptions for 197 yards.Maharashtra assembly election results: Clueless in defeat, will Uddhav Thackeray be able to make a comeback?
Global stocks end mostly up with DAX crossing 20,000 for 1st timeIs Enron back? If it's a joke, some former employees aren't laughingMONTEVIDEO, Uruguay (AP) — Uruguayans on Sunday voted in the second round of the country's presidential election , with the conservative governing party and a left-leaning coalition locked in a close runoff following level-headed campaigns widely seen as emblematic of the country's strong democracy. As polls closed Sunday evening, turnout stood at 89.4% — around the same as during the first round last month in which the two moderate coalitions both failed to win an outright majority. Voting in Uruguay is compulsory. Depending on how tight the vote turns out to be, electoral officials may not call the race for days — as happened in the contentious 2019 runoff that brought center-right President Luis Lacalle Pou to office and ended 15 years of rule by Uruguay’s left-leaning Broad Front by a razor-thin margin. Álvaro Delgado, the incumbent party’s candidate who won nearly 27% in the first round of voting on Oct. 27, has campaigned under the slogan “re-elect a good government." Other conservative parties that make up the government coalition — in particular, the Colorado Party that came in third place last month — notched 20% of the vote collectively, enough to give Delgado an edge over his challenger. Yamandú Orsi from the Broad Front, who took 44% of the vote in the general election, is promising to forge a “new left” in Uruguay that draws on the memory of stability and economic growth under his Broad Front coalition, which presided over pioneering social reforms that won widespread international acclaim from 2005-2020, including the legalization of abortion, same-sex marriage and sale of marijuana . With inflation easing and the economy expected to expand by some 3.2% this year, according to the International Monetary Fund, surveys show that Uruguayans remain largely satisfied with the administration of Lacalle Pou, who constitutionally cannot run for a second consecutive term. But persistent complaints about sluggish growth, stagnant wages and an upsurge in violent crime could just as easily add the small South American nation to a long list of places this year where frustrated voters have punished incumbents in elections around the world. With most polls showing a virtual tie between Delgado and Orsi, analysts say the vote may hinge on a small group of undecided voters — roughly 10% of registered voters in the nation of 3.4 million people. “Neither candidate convinced me and I feel that there are many in my same situation,” said Vanesa Gelezoglo, 31, in the capital, Montevideo, adding she would make up her mind at “the last minute.” Analysts say the candidates’ lackluster campaigns and broad consensus on key issues have generated extraordinary indecision and apathy in an election dominated by discussions about social spending and concerns over income inequality but largely free of the anti-establishment rage that has vaulted populist outsiders to power in neighboring Argentina and the United States. “The question of whether Frente Amplio (the Broad Front) raises taxes is not an existential question, unlike what we saw in the U.S. with Trump and Kamala framing each other as threats to democracy," said Nicolás Saldías, a Latin America and Caribbean senior analyst for the London-based Economist Intelligence Unit. “That doesn't exist in Uruguay.” Both candidates are also appealing to voter angst over the current government's struggle to stem the rise in violent crime that has shaken a nation long regarded as one of the region’s safest, with Delgado promising tough-on-crime policies and Orsi advocating a more community-oriented approach. Delgado, 55, a rural veterinarian with a long career in the National Party, served most recently as Secretary of the Presidency for Lacalle Pou and promises to pursue his predecessor’s pro-business policies. He would continue pushing for a trade deal with China that has raised hackles in Mercosur, an alliance of South American countries promoting regional commerce. "We have to give the government coalition a chance to consolidate its proposals,” said Ramiro Pérez, a street vendor voting for Delgado on Sunday. Orsi, 57, a former history teacher and two-time mayor from a working-class background, is widely seen as the political heir to former President José “Pepe” Mujica , an ex-Marxist guerilla who became a global icon for helping transform Uruguay into one of the region's most socially liberal and environmentally sustainable nations. “He's my candidate, not only for my sake but also for my children's,” Yeny Varone, a nurse at a polling station, said of Orsi. “In the future they'll have better working conditions, health and salaries.” Mujica, now 89 and recovering from esophageal cancer , turned up at his local polling station before balloting even began, praising Orsi's humility and Uruguay’s famous stability. “This is no small feat,” he said of Uruguay's “citizenry that respects formal institutions.” Orsi planned no dramatic changes, and, despite his call for a revitalized left-wing, his platform continues the Broad Front's traditional mix of market-friendly policies and welfare programs. He proposes tax incentives to lure investment and social security reforms that would lower the retirement age but fall short of a radical overhaul sought by Uruguay's unions. The contentious plebiscite on whether to boost pension payouts failed to pass in October, with Uruguayans rejecting generous pensions in favor of fiscal constraint. Both candidates pledged full cooperation with each other if elected. “I want (Orsi) to know that my idea is to form a government of national unity,” Delgado told reporters after casting his vote in the capital's upscale Pocitos neighborhood. He said that if he won, he and Orsi would chat on Monday over some yerba mate, the traditional herbal drink beloved by Uruguayans. Orsi described Sunday's democratic exercise as “an incredible experience" as he voted in Canelones, the sprawling town of beaches and cattle ranches just north of Montevideo where he served as mayor for a decade. “The essence of politics is agreements,” he said. “You never end up completely satisfied.” Associated Press writer Isabel DeBre in Villa Tunari, Bolivia, contributed to this report.
Washington Commanders release 2023 first-round pick Emmanuel Forbes
National Review senior writer Noah Rothman discusses Americans' reactions to President Biden pardoning his son Hunter on 'The Story.' CNN contributor and Watergate figure John Dean is urging President Biden to expand his pardon list to sink any prospect of President-elect Donald Trump getting "revenge" against his political enemies. In a post on social media site Bluesky, Dean advised Biden to issue a "blanket pardon" for DOJ officials who have investigated or prosecuted Trump so he can’t punish them once he gets into office. "Biden should keep going with his pardons: Trump, Jack Smith & team, Mueller & team, and a blanket pardon for all on Trump’s enemies list for any and all political statements before December 25, 2024! Merry Christmas," Dean wrote on Sunday. Dean’s post came shortly after Biden announced that he pardoned his son, Hunter, who was facing potentially significant prison time for federal tax evasion and gun convictions. BIDEN'S SWEEPING HUNTER PARDON AT ODDS WITH LONGTIME RHETORIC ON EXECUTIVE POWER: 'NO ONE IS ABOVE THE LAW' John Dean, former counsel to President Richard M. Nixon, advised President Biden to pardon all of President-elect Trump's political enemies so he can't enact "revenge" on them when he gets back into office. In announcing the pardon, the president criticized what he deemed the unfair investigation and prosecution of his son, a process he said was "infected" by politics and led to a "miscarriage of justice." "No reasonable person who looks at the facts of Hunter’s cases can reach any other conclusion than Hunter was singled out only because he is my son — and that is wrong," President Biden said in a statement Sunday. Following Hunter Biden’s pardon, the judge in his firearm case terminated the remainder of the proceedings. His sentencing date had been scheduled for Dec. 12 . President Biden blatantly broke his own repeated pledge that he wouldn't pardon Hunter with the move. Dean, who was former President Richard Nixon’s White House counsel during the Watergate scandal, wrote that pardoning Trump’s enemies could be a way to "take the wind out of retribution/revenge!" BORDER STATE OFFERS TRUMP MASSIVE PLOT OF LAND TO AID MASS DEPORTATION OPERATION US President Joe Biden and his son Hunter Biden hug on stage at the conclusion of the first day of the Democratic National Convention (DNC) at the United Center in Chicago, Illinois, on August 19, 2024. (BRENDAN SMIALOWSKI/AFP via Getty Images) Dean's "retribution" line was a reference to Trump telling supporters at CPAC in 2023, "I am your warrior. I am your justice. And for those who have been wronged and betrayed: I am your retribution." Critics have expressed fears that once the president-elect returns to office, he will use his power to get back at those who launched and cooperated in investigations and prosecutions of him during his presidency and beyond. Trump posted in September, "WHEN I WIN, those people that CHEATED will be prosecuted to the fullest extent of the Law, which will include long-term prison sentences so that this Depravity of Justice does not happen again." However, in several other appearances during and after his 2024 presidential campaign, Trump has softened this rhetoric and even extended grace to his most ardent critics. During an interview with Fox News Channel host Sean Hannity in June, Trump said those worried about retribution are "wrong." "Number one, they're wrong. It has to stop, because otherwise, we're not going to have a country," he told Hannity but added that "based on what they've done, I would have every right to go after them." President-elect Donald Trump. (Rebecca Noble/Getty Images) Dean has been an outspoken critic of Trump, even testifying against him in 2019 during a Democrat-led Congressional hearing about then-Special Counsel Robert Mueller’s report on allegations of Trump-Russia collusion. The Watergate lawyer has also previously referred to Trump as an "authoritarian president" on social media. Dean has long been a favorite voice of the progressive media for his criticism of the Republican Party and constant invocation of Watergate to hype up GOP scandals . Dean was a key figure in the Watergate prosecution efforts that led to Nixon's resignation. Dean served a short prison sentence after pleading guilty to obstruction of justice for his role in the cover-up and was disbarred. CLICK HERE TO GET THE FOX NEWS APP Fox News Digital's Breanne Deppisch contributed to this report. Gabriel Hays is an associate editor for Fox News Digital.
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The Benazir Income Support Programme (BISP) stands as a powerful testament to Pakistan’s commitment to social justice and social protection. The very idea of social safety programme was conceived by ex-Prime Minister of Pakistan Mohtarma Shaheed Benazir Bhutto during her time in exile, the idea aimed to provide economic relief to the country’s most vulnerable population, particularly women, who often bore the brunt of socio-economic inequities. After her unfortunate assassination, Pakistan People’s Party-led Federal Government launched BISP in 2008 and her vision was transformed into reality under the leadership of President Asif Ali Zardari. Today, BISP through quarterly cash grant supports 9.6 million households, a number set to increase to 10 million by June 2025, becoming Pakistan’s largest and most influential social protection programme. This ambitious programme, designed to offer direct financial assistance to the poorest families through Benazir Kafalat programme, has been particularly transformative for women, positioning them as heads of their households in a country where women have historically been sidelined in economic, social, and political decision-making. From providing cash transfers and promoting maternal and child health through programmes like Benazir Nashonuma, to investing in education with the Benazir Taleemi Wazaif initiative, and now implementing a skill development programme to ensure poverty graduation through global employability of beneficiaries & their families, BISP continues to break barriers, offering financial inclusion and social empowerment to millions across Pakistan A journey of learning and leading Once a learner, BISP now stands as a leader in global social protection, setting an example for developing countries to follow. For years, BISP has looked beyond its borders to draw lessons from international models of social protection, adapting and refining its own initiatives. But in a remarkable turn of events, developing countries from across the globe are now visiting Pakistan to study BISP’s practices, which have gained recognition worldwide for their success in empowering marginalized populations. Recently in October, 2024, a 21-member Ugandan delegation, led by Lucy Nakyobe Mbonye, Secretary of Public Service, paid four-day study visit to the Benazir Income Support Programme (BISP). While briefing the delegates, Dr. Tahir Noor, Additional Secretary BISP, attributed BISP’s success to its scientific, and objective targeting, technology based payment mechanisms, the trust of international development partners, and independent third-party monitoring. Ms. Coco Ushiyama, Country Director of the World Food Programme, also commended BISP’s evidence-based database and its role in providing timely assistance during natural disasters. This shift represents a significant milestone not only for BISP but also for Pakistan’s growing influence in the global development sector. At the South-South Cooperation Forum held in Islamabad on November 14, 2024, Pakistan’s success story was showcased as a model for social protection systems across the globe. Representatives from West African nations, including Mali, Niger, Burkina Faso, and Senegal, gathered in Islamabad to learn firsthand from Pakistan’s pioneering work in social welfare. Delegates were particularly impressed by BISP’s ability to integrate women into the economic mainstream, a critical step toward achieving long-term social and economic stability. “Today, we are not just learning from others; we are teaching others,” said Secretary BISP Amer Ali Ahmad during his address at the event. He proudly highlighted BISP’s transformation over the years—from a fledgling initiative in 2008 to a globally recognized model of inclusive social protection. The programme’s emphasis on empowering women through direct cash transfers, health and nutrition programmes, and educational incentives has not only supported millions of under-privileged but has also set a new standard for how social welfare can contribute in generating socioeconomic activities in less developed areas as major part of BISP Rs 598 billion budget is pumped into local economy through these quarterly cash grants to more than 9.6 million families across the country. BISP’s global impact: a beacon for social protection The South-South Cooperation forum, which brought together global development partners such as the World Food Programme, World Bank, UNICEF, KfW, GIZ and the Asian Development Bank (ADB), was recognition of the profound impact BISP has had, not just within Pakistan but across the world. The participating countries, each grappling with their own poverty and development challenges, came to Pakistan seeking solutions that could be adapted and implemented in their respective contexts. The delegation from Mali, led by Redouwane Mohamed Ali, Minister of Food Security, praised Pakistan for its robust social safety net, particularly BISP’s ability to deliver aid efficiently through its innovative payment mechanisms, such as biometric verification, mobile banking, and dynamic data registry mechanism. BISP’s cutting-edge approach to cash transfers has streamlined the process, combating corruption and ensuring that the right individuals benefit from the programme. BISP has advanced its digital payment systems by introducing biometric-enabled transactions in collaboration with six banks, improving security, transparency, and access for beneficiaries. Additionally, a pilot savings scheme offers a 40% quarterly bonus to encourage a culture of saving amongst these vulnerable segments of society. The future plan of BISP to phase out POS agents will empower women to independently access their social security funds, enhancing their financial autonomy. Similarly, Amedee Bamouni, Secretary of the National Council for Social Protection of Burkina Faso, commended BISP’s dynamic registry centers and national socio-economic database, which track the financial status of beneficiaries, ensuring that aid reaches the most deserving families. He emphasized how BISP’s transparent systems and use of technology could serve as a valuable blueprint for social protection programmes in Burkina Faso and other countries facing similar challenges. In addition to financial transfers, BISP’s focus on maternal, newborn, and child health (MNCH) was another key area of interest for the visiting delegates. The Benazir Nashonuma Programme, which provides cash incentives linked to health and nutrition outcomes, has helped combat malnutrition and stunting among new born children and has improved health of mothers, particularly in rural areas. BISP has allocated PKR 42 billion (approx. USD 144 million) to the Program, benefiting 2.6 million pregnant and lactating women, contributing to better maternal and infant health outcomes. This programme’s success, supported by the World Food Programme (WFP), has demonstrated how integrating health and nutrition with cash transfers can lead to long-term improvements in the health of entire communities. A vision for the future: expanding global cooperation As Pakistan continues to advance its social protection agenda, the importance of global collaboration cannot be overstated. The South-South Cooperation forum marks the beginning of a new chapter in Pakistan’s social welfare journey, one that involves sharing lessons learned with other developing nations while also learning from their unique challenges and solutions. The exchange of knowledge between Pakistan and West African countries promises to deepen the understanding of how social protection systems can be tailored to the needs of local populations, addressing challenges like poverty, malnutrition, and gender inequality. Through mutual cooperation, countries can build stronger, more resilient social safety nets that lift people out of poverty and empower them to contribute to their countries’ economic development. As Senator Rubina Khalid, Chairperson of BISP, aptly put it during the forum: “The success of BISP is not only a significant achievement for Pakistan, but it has also brought in international recognition as a model of effective social protection. It is a moment of immense pride for our nation to witness our social protection program being studied and admired by countries worldwide. I am delighted to see the vision of Benazir Bhutto Shaheed transforming into a tangible reality, now celebrated on the global stage. This is a testament to how visionary leadership can shape the priorities of a nation. BISP has become a flagship programme and a case study for many countries striving to establish their own social protection systems.“ The Recognition of BISP as a model for social protection is a testament to Pakistan’s ability to create meaningful change at both the national and international levels, BISP is not just shaping Pakistan’s future but also contributing to UNDP global goals of No Poverty, Zero Hunger, Good Health, Gender Equality, Decent Work and Economic Growth & Reduced Inequalities for a more inclusive Pakistan. Copyright Business Recorder, 2024A ban is imposed on all ferris wheel rides until further notice to ensure public safety. Minister for Employment, Productivity and Workplace, Agni Deo Singh, said this decision was made after exhaustive discussions with the senior ministry staffs. Mr Singh’s comments followed the recent incident in Taveuni during the Wairiki Sevens on Wednesday where a ferris wheel developed a mechanical problem with patrons on board. Mr Singh said his team from the Occupational Health and Safety (OHS) unit have inspected the machine. A video which was circulated on social media showed smoke emitting from the engine with onlookers jumping in to manually stop the engine so that the riders can get off. All the riders then disembarked safely from the malfunctioned ferris wheel. Minister Singh has ordered a investigation into the incident, the OHS team has been dispatched to investigate the matter. The preliminary progress report would provide some details on how the engine malfunctioned, Mr Singh said. It is perceived that the cause of such incidents is that amusement ride operators operate old and poorly maintained machines. Feedback: sampras.anand@fijisun.com.fj
No. 22 St. John's, Georgia pack busy schedule with game on Sunday
Three people were arrested during pro-Palestinian demonstrations in Ottawa this weekend. On Saturday evening, police said two people were arrested during a weekly rally organized by the Palestinian Youth Movement. One man was taken into custody after interfering with the group demonstrating and a woman was arrested for assaulting a police officer following "repeated non-compliance orders from officers." Demonstrators tell CTV News the man was not part of the pro-Palestinian rally. In a news release, police said they also arrested a 29-year-old woman on Sunday morning in relation to a demonstration earlier this week that led to four arrests . Organizers for the Palestinian Youth Movement say the woman was one of their members who was protesting the arrest of a demonstrator during Saturday's rally. She was charged with two counts of public mischief, obstruction of police, counsel an uncommitted indictable offence of mischief and unlawful assembly. She will appear in court on Monday. Police say they identified people in the crowd committing offences during the Nov. 18 protest, but said it was not safe to make more arrests. "After observing criminal behaviour, four individuals were arrested that evening. Police identified others in the crowd committing offences but deemed that it would not be safe to make arrests at the time and risk an escalation," police said. Weekly protests have taking place in Ottawa against Israel's armed offensive in Gaza and Lebanon since the start of the Israel-Hamas war on Oct. 7, 2023. On Saturday evening, demonstrators marched from the Human Rights Monument near Ottawa City Hall and moved down Elgin Street, Sussex Drive and Rideau Street. Video posted to social media by the Palestinian Youth Movement shows a confrontation between police and the demonstrators. "The Ottawa police brutalized and attacked community members today and arrested a protestor dragging them out of the crowd. They shoved people at the back of the protest to force us onto the sidewalk. Every weekend protest has been on the streets. The police chose violence and escalation today," the group said in an Instagram post. A post shared by PYM Ottawa (@ottawapym) Following the arrest on Saturday night, a rally was held in front of the Ottawa Police Service headquarters on Elgin Street to demand the release of one of the demonstrators taken into custody. A rally protesting the actions of police continued on Sunday. "We recognize the concerns raised by members of the community regarding these arrests," Ottawa police said. "The OPS is committed to ensuring community safety and respecting the lawful right to protest. Any charges related to demonstrations are carefully considered with this balance, and we are focused on balancing the need for public safety with fostering trust and understanding." 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OPP officer charged with assault Mixed reaction from Ottawa business owners, customers on GST exemption Ottawa councillor violated Code of Conduct for daycare incident last summer, integrity commissioner concludes Ottawa driver fined for hauling thousands of empty cans in trunk of car CTVNews.ca Top Stories Second Cup closes Montreal franchise over hateful incident Second Cup Café has closed one of its franchise locations in Montreal following allegations of hateful remarks and gestures made by the franchisee in a video that was widely circulated online during a pro-Palestinian protest on Thursday. ‘It’s pretty emotional:’ N.B. family escape fire, plan to rebuild home A family in Riverview, N.B., is making plans for Christmas and the future after escaping a fire in their home on November, 14. 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Nova Scotia retirement community asks people to ‘Be a Santa to a Senior’ The Berkeley retirement community is asking people to “Be a Santa to a Senior” by making a donation until December 9 at one of their four locations in the Halifax Regional Municipality. Man arrested in Saint John, N.B., for weapons offences Saint John Police Force in Saint John, N.B., arrested a 30-year-old man for weapons related offenses on Saturday. Toronto Walking pneumonia is on the rise in Canada, but what about Ontario? Doctors and emergency rooms across Canada have said they are seeing an unusual rise in walking pneumonia cases, particularly in children, but what about here in Ontario? 'It's an optimistic space:' Inside Toronto's new drug withdrawal centre Joshua Orson sits on the edge of a bed in a bright, clean room, thinking about his journey from addict to health-care worker. Routes to avoid during the 120th Santa Claus Parade on Sunday The 120th Santa Claus Parade is back in Toronto on Sunday and will bring along some road closures. Montreal Second Cup closes Montreal franchise over hateful incident Second Cup Café has closed one of its franchise locations in Montreal following allegations of hateful remarks and gestures made by the franchisee in a video that was widely circulated online during a pro-Palestinian protest on Thursday. Two suspicious fires in Rawdon Provincial police (SQ) are investigating two suspicious fires on the same street within 24 hours in the municipality of Rawdon. Montreal police chief expects additional arrests following anti-NATO protest Montreal's police chief says he expects more arrests stemming from a Friday anti-NATO protest that turned violent, with smashed windows and burned cars in downtown Montreal. Northern Ontario Northern Ont. First Nation files claim against Ontario and Newmont mining Taykwa Tagamou Nation, a Cree First Nation located within Treaty 9, has filed a statement of claim against the Province of Ontario and Newmont, a mining company that owns properties in Timmins. Senior killed in dog attack in northern Ont. An 81-year-old was killed in a dog attack this week in Bonfield, Ont. Police believe three dogs were involved. More carrots pulled from grocery store shelves in expanded recall for E. coli: CFIA The Canadian Food Inspection Agency has announced an expanded recall on carrots over risks of E. coli O121 contamination, according to a notice issued Friday. Windsor How a senior's efforts to craft hats for students knitted his community together A Windsor, Ont., man knitting hats for kids in need has inspired his neighbours to make sure more than just ears are staying warm. Increased police presence in Tecumseh Tecumseh will see more police around Ryegate Drive and Lemire Street, as per OPP. CPKC Holiday Train coming to Chatham-Kent, Windsor-Essex If you were hoping to see the CPKC Holiday Train this year, you’re in luck! The train is chugging through Canada and the U.S., stopping in Chatham-Kent and Windsor-Essex on Monday. London World Champion Jennifer Ogg of London, Ont. among inductees in Canadian Boxing Hall of Fame When Jennifer Ogg signed up an Ironman race in Cozumel, Mex., she had no idea that months later, she’d get the call to be inducted into the Canadian Boxing Hall of Fame. Two displaced in $200,000 house fire The London Fire Department was on scene of a house fire in the city on Sunday. Three people in hospital due to collision Kitchener Kitchener auto repair shop hosts fundraiser for children with disabilities, joined by hockey legend Wendel Clark An auto repair shop based in Kitchener held a special fundraiser Saturday to help children and youth with physical disabilities, with former Maple Leafs captain Wendel Clark in attendance. Colleges and universities face job cuts, deficits amid international student cap Groups representing post-secondary institutions say this may just be the tip of the iceberg, as dramatic drops in international student enrolment exacerbate some schools' existing budget shortfalls. Walking pneumonia is on the rise in Canada, but what about Ontario? Doctors and emergency rooms across Canada have said they are seeing an unusual rise in walking pneumonia cases, particularly in children, but what about here in Ontario? Barrie Driver seriously injured after crashing into tree: OPP An overnight crash in Tiny Township is under investigation, where a car allegedly crashed into a tree and both occupants were taken to hospital. First snowfall hits region Simcoe Muskoka saw its first signs of snow of the season Sunday morning, with a mix of flurries and rain leading to worsening road conditions and police reporting multiple collisions. Local high school basketball team wins provincial championship The Maple Ridge Ravens girls’ basketball team won a gold medal at the Girls AAA OFSAA Championships this weekend in Brampton, defeating the Mother Teresa Spartans 46-42 in comeback fashion. Winnipeg Winnipeg postal workers still collecting letters to Santa amid ongoing strike Here's how Winnipeg families can still deliver their letters to Santa amid the ongoing Canada Post workers' strike. Have you seen Bostyn? Winnipeg police search for missing teenager Winnipeg police are asking the public to help find a 15-year-old girl who went missing Saturday afternoon. The Thriftmas Special: The benefits of second-hand holiday shopping The holidays may be a time for family, joy and togetherness, but they can also be hard on the wallet. Calgary Snowfall warning lifted but flurries remain in Sunday forecast The snowfall warning for Calgary has been lifted after a Saturday snowstorm socked the city, but there are still flurries in the forecast for Sunday. Revival of Pospisil, power play fuels Flames to 4-3 shootout win over Wild A week ago, the Calgary Flames were winning despite Martin Pospisil's slump and the NHL club's weak power play. Want to go out? Calgary stages jammed as holiday performing arts scene set to take flight Calgary stages are about to become very busy. Edmonton Electric cars a 'hot commodity' in Alberta despite misconceptions Electric vehicles are off Alberta car lots, despite what experts say are some ongoing misconceptions about the technology. Podkolzin snaps scoring slump in Oilers win over Rangers Vasily Podkolzin vowed there's more to come after his first goal with the Edmonton Oilers. Podkolzin scored the game’s first goal and Connor McDavid had two goals and an assist for the Oilers in a 6-2 victory over the New York Rangers on Saturday. Canada Post down eight million parcels amid strike as talks carry on over weekend Canada Post says it has seen a shortage of more than eight million parcels amid an ongoing strike that has effectively shut down the postal system for nine days compared with the same period in 2023. Regina Regina slammed with second snowstorm inside a week Regina is digging itself out yet again – mere days after it was slammed with the first major snowfall of the season. Dinosaur discovery reveals more about ancient Saskatchewan Researchers from McGill University have discovered a first of its kind fossil specimen for Saskatchewan. Navy wife brings together local authors for inaugural book fair Sixteen local authors and book publishers gathered Saturday for the first ever Regina Bookwyrm’s Book Fair, organized by a Navy wife. Saskatoon Saskatoon schools will be closed Monday following heavy snowfall Saskatoon Public Schools (SPS) has announced that all schools will be closed on Monday due to heavy snowfall and hazardous road conditions. Saskatoon digs out from another snowfall Saskatoon residents are digging out from another major snowfall that blanketed the city overnight. 'I'm excited to take it on': Saskatoon businesses weigh in on GST exemption Some local businesses say the federal government’s recent plan to pull back GST on several items is a positive initiative, but it should have been rolled out earlier in the holiday season. Vancouver Vancouver Police Board member resigns over social media posts A member of the Vancouver Police Board was asked to resign after social media posts surfaced that made her continued service on the oversight body “untenable,” according to the chair. Cat caught in hunting snare rescued by BC SPCA Donations are ramping up for a BC SPCA cat with a mangled paw after being caught in a hunting snare, one of a rising number of pets to fall prey to the hunting device. Widow of Chinese businessman who was executed for murder can sell her Vancouver house, court rules A murder in China and a civil lawsuit in B.C. have been preventing the sale of multiple Vancouver homes, but one of them could soon hit the market after a court ruling. Vancouver Island BC Hydro says power almost fully restored after B.C. windstorms British Columbia's electric utility says it has restored power to almost all customers who suffered outages during the bomb cyclone earlier this week, but strong wind from a new storm has made repairs difficult in some areas. Fall legislative sitting scrapped in B.C. as Speaker Chouhan confirmed to serve again There won't be a sitting of the British Columbia legislature this fall as originally planned. Canada Post down eight million parcels amid strike as talks carry on over weekend Canada Post says it has seen a shortage of more than eight million parcels amid an ongoing strike that has effectively shut down the postal system for nine days compared with the same period in 2023. Kelowna Man in hospital following targeted shooting in Kamloops Police are appealing for information on a targeted shooting that resulted in the hospitalization of a man in Kamloops. Police cleared of fault in fatal 2023 crash in B.C.'s Interior British Columbia's independent police watchdog has cleared officers of wrongdoing in a crash where three people were killed south of Kamloops in July of last year. B.C. woman sentenced for stealing $14K in funds raised for schoolkids A B.C. woman who stole more than $14,000 in volunteer-raised funds that were supposed to be spent on school supplies and programs – including hot meals for vulnerable kids – won't spend any time in jail. Stay Connected
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Hello and welcome to Yahoo's live news blog this Wednesday. Commonwealth has backflipped on a controversial move when withdrawing cash. The Labor government had branded the move as "really unfair" amid a cost-of-living crisis. Uber has revealed which customers are best and worst behaved in the past year. The rideshare company has broken it down into states and shamed the one with the worst rider ratings. Find out where your state sits below. Follow along as we bring you regular updates throughout the day. Two men have been charged after NSW Police allege nearly $1.4 million was fraudulently claimed from the state's Department of Education. Earlier this year police began investigations into allegations a school employee was mismanaging funded intended for maintenance and building works at two schools. "During the investigation, it was identified the employee had assistance from another man known to him, who was the director of a building company, and helped facilitate the fraudulent claims," NSW Police said in a statement. The two men, aged 38 and 38, were arrested today and charged with over 60 charges each, including dishonestly obtaining financial advantage. They are due to front court later today. In some breaking news now, has been told by Commonwealth Bank it plans to scrap its controversial $3 cash withdrawal fee just one day after announcing it. The nation's biggest bank faced widespread backlash for the announcement, including from the Albanese government. Read more . A man will face court today after NSW police allegedly found $18 million worth of prohibited drugs stashed inside the door cavity of his car. Police say 25 kilograms of methylamphetamine and 10 kilograms of cocaine bricks were located after his Toyota Corolla was stopped in Gundagai on Tuesday. One of the packages allegedly found included a picture of Russian President Vladimir Putin. The 26-year-old man has been charged with two counts of supplying prohibited drug with a large commercial quantity and possessing a DECCD to commit serious criminal activity. Coles says it will hand out thousands of prizes to customers in the lead up to Christmas, with shoppers able to score cash off their shops in store. "Offering a total prize pool of $2 million, more than 66,000 lucky customers will have the chance to win instant money off their in-store shop until New Year’s Day," the supermarket giant said. "Starting today, shoppers who spend $20 or more in-store and scan their registered Flybuys will find out if they've scored an instant win prize at the checkout, helping customers save on their shopping throughout the Christmas and summer entertaining season." There will be 1,667 $100 prizes handed out, while there'll be 3,333 $50 prizes, 4,999 $20 prizes and 6,6667 $10 prizes that can be won. “We want to say thank you to our customers for shopping at Coles by spreading some festive cheer – and we can't wait to see the joy and excitement as our customers win," Coles Chief Customer Officer Amanda McVay said. Move over , there's another zoo animal that's the most talked about globally now. But sadly for giant panda and viral sensation Fu Bao, it's because there's concerns for her health after she was spotted displaying unusual behaviour by visitors to her panda base including twitching. The development has blown up on Chinese social media, with the much-loved panda, who recently arrived in China after being the first giant panda born in South Korea, leaving millions eagerly awaiting an update after Fu Bao went in for testing. In some good news, preliminary observations have note shown any abnormalities. The China Conservation and Research Center for the Giant Panda said on Tuesday that Fu Bao, the first giant panda born in South Korea, is being closely monitored after exhibiting concerning symptoms in SW China's Sichuan. Born in July 2020, Fu Bao returned to China in April. — People's Daily, China (@PDChina) It seems Woolworths aren't the only ones getting frustrated with the ongoing strikes at the supermarket's distribution centres. The Australian Retailers Association (ARA) says the United Workers Union, who are blocking gates at the centres, should allow workers to turn up to work if they wish. “Everyone has the right to feel safe at work, and industrial action should not impede on workers wishing to carry out their everyday duties," the ARA's Fleur Brown said. “If an employee wishes to return to work, they should be able to do so without fear of retribution." Brown also said that Australians need access to vital food and grocery products particularly in the lead-up to Christmas. “This is the busiest period for retailers and shoppers which places great demand on the supply of these products with a flow-on effect to many Australians," she said. The strike has lasted two weeks now with the union and supermarket at loggerheads over conditions and pay. Here's one you might have missed as it came through yesterday evening. Three teens were hospitalised at a NSW school after science experiment went wrong. Paramedics rushed to Brisbane Water Secondary College in Woy Woy on Tuesday morning after three year 10 students suffered burns. The Daily Telegraph understands the experiment went wrong, with ethanol spilling and catching fire. The three students were taken to separate hospitals in stable conditions. The Department of Education said it was "deeply concerned" over the incident, with the school's science labs being closed off. , but it's London's turn now. Brits have savaged Trafalgar Square's 20-metre tree gifted from Norway, with some left asking where the other half is. The tree's official X account hit back, saying "haters gonna hate" before reminding people the tree will fill out after spending days in transit. And the British Embassy in Oslo also hit back, calling the tree "beautiful", while reminding people of the longstanding tradition between the two countries which began during World War II. Only been up for five minutes and already I’m a fluffy mighty pine 🎄✨💅 Haters gonna hate, but let’s remember this beautiful tradition and let’s hope it continues forever ❤️ Will yule be coming to my ceremony this Thursday?! 🎉✨ — Trafalgar Square Tree (@trafalgartree) People from Western Australia have been revealed as the worst customers for , the rideshare giant says. Sharing its annual rider ratings rankings, Uber revealed the state's average rating of 4.79 was the lowest across the country. Victoria didn't fare much better with a rating of 4.8. NSW customers led the state to top spot as the best behaved, scoring on average 4.84. NT came second, while Queensland and Tasmania tied third. has stripped a Chinese product from its shelves over fears that it could be a biosecurity breach. A broom imported from China spotted in one of its NSW stores appeared to contain rice plants in its head, sparking fears it could pose a biosecurity threat, the ABC reported. "I could see these grains in the head of the broom and on closer inspection I nearly fell over because I'm absolutely certain they were rice grains. The biosecurity concerns are just mammoth," former rice grower Keith Rowe, who spotted the broom, told the public broadcaster. An investigation is underway and a Bunnings spokesperson said the hardware giant is taking it "very seriously". Bunnings straw broom made in china , supposedly millet ,looks like rice to me — rowey_brolga (@Rowey_brolga) Labor says a Commonwealth move to slug its customers $3 to withdraw cash is "really unfair". Housing Minister Clare O'Neil said the move just didn't sit right with the government. “I just think the government feels this is really unfair to customers, to Australians, especially just before Christmas,” she told Sunrise on Wednesday. “Everyone’s had a bit of a tough year on the cost-of-living front and last thing they need is a kick in the guts from the Commonwealth Bank right before Christmas.” Read all about the new fee on Yahoo Finance .