AP Race Call: Republican Mariannette Miller-Meeks wins reelection to U.S. House in Iowa's 1st Congressional DistrictIt didn't take Syracuse first-year coach Fran Brown long to figure out the key matchup for Saturday afternoon's Atlantic Coast Conference game visiting Miami. "Syracuse has a really good quarterback," Brown said of Kyle McCord, "and Miami has a really good quarterback (Cam Ward)." With a win on Saturday, the No. 6 Hurricanes (10-1, 6-1 ACC) can clinch a berth in the league championship game against SMU. Miami is a 10 1/2-point favorite for Saturday's game. Syracuse (8-3, 4-3) has reached eight wins for just the fourth time since 2002, going 8-5 in 2010 and 2012 and 10-3 in 2018. However, the Orange haven't defeated a Top-10 team since knocking off Clemson in 2017. Miami leads the nation in scoring (44.7), and the Hurricanes will count on perfect passing conditions in Syracuse's dome. That could be huge for Ward, who leads the nation with 34 touchdown passes, ranking second in passing yards (3,774) and fourth in passing efficiency. Ward's top target is wide receiver Xavier Restrepo, who needs just 21 yards to reach 1,000 for the second straight season. Restrepo also ranks tied for seventh in the nation with 10 TD receptions. Ward has some other top targets, including 6-foot-4, 245-pound tight end Elijah Arroyo, who is a walking mismatch because of his size and speed. He leads Miami with 18.5 yards per reception. Hurricanes wide receivers Isaiah Horton and Jacolby George have combined for 12 TD passes, and Sam Brown has added two more. Each of them has more than 500 receiving yards this season. Miami's running game features battering ram Damien Martinez (739 yards, 5.5 average, eight TDs); versatile Mark Fletcher Jr. (499 yards, 5.7 average, six TDs); and game-breaking freshman Jordan Lyle (361 yards, 8.6 average, four TDs). Defensively, Miami's big-play man is safety Mishael Powell, who ranks second in the ACC with five interceptions. "He's all about winning," Miami coach Mario Cristobal said of Powell. "He's a smart, self-starting team player." On special teams, Miami kicker Andres Borregales ranks second in the ACC with 97 points. He is 52-for-52 on extra points and 15-for-16 on field goals. Meanwhile, McCord ranks No. 1 in the nation in passing yards (3,946) and tied for seventh in TD passes (26). McCord, a transfer from Ohio State, has also set Syracuse's single-season record for passing yards. In last week's 31-24 win over Connecticut, McCord passed for a career-high 470 yards. However, McCord is just 46th in the nation in passing efficiency, due in part to his high total of interceptions (12). Syracuse also has three of the top six pass-catchers in the ACC in terms of yards: tight end Oronde Gadsden II (810) and wide receivers Jackson Meeks (801) and Trebor Pena (743). Gadsden, who is from the greater Miami area, has had three straight 100-yard games. He is the son of former Miami Dolphins wide receiver Oronde Gadsden. Syracuse's run game is led by LeQuint Allen, who has rushed for 819 yards, a 4.3 average and 12 TDs. The issue for Syracuse could be its defense, which ranks 13th in the ACC in points allowed (27.8). Miami's defense is fourth (22.3). Even so, Syracuse coach Brown said he's excited about this matchup. "I heard Miami is going to come deep," Brown said of Miami fans. "It's going to be intense in the stands. It's going to be intense on the field. I think this is a game everyone wants to see." --Field Level Media
Percentages: FG .403, FT .636. 3-Point Goals: 1-16, .063 (Hankins-Sanford 1-1, Rivera 0-1, Watson 0-2, Curry 0-3, Guerengomba 0-3, Diggins 0-6). Team Rebounds: 5. Team Turnovers: 1. Blocked Shots: 6 (Rivera 2, Guerengomba, Hankins-Sanford, Muhammad, Ndjigue). Turnovers: 13 (Diggins 3, Ndjigue 3, Curry 2, Guerengomba 2, Hankins-Sanford, Rivera, Watson). Steals: 6 (Curry 2, Diggins 2, Hankins-Sanford, Ndjigue). Technical Fouls: None. Percentages: FG .377, FT .667. 3-Point Goals: 6-20, .300 (Batties 2-3, Barbour 2-5, Nelson 1-1, Lesmond 1-3, Byrne 0-1, Dowdell 0-1, Eisendrath 0-1, Hinton 0-1, Pigge 0-4). Team Rebounds: 3. Team Turnovers: None. Blocked Shots: 4 (Eisendrath 2, Batties, Pigge). Turnovers: 11 (Pigge 4, Barbour 2, Lesmond 2, Nelson 2, Batties). Steals: 9 (Pigge 3, Hinton 2, Lesmond 2, Barbour, Batties). Technical Fouls: None. .By KENYA HUNTER, Associated Press ATLANTA (AP) — As she checked into a recent flight to Mexico for vacation, Teja Smith chuckled at the idea of joining another Women’s March on Washington . As a Black woman, she just couldn’t see herself helping to replicate the largest act of resistance against then-President Donald Trump’s first term in January 2017. Even in an election this year where Trump questioned his opponent’s race , held rallies featuring racist insults and falsely claimed Black migrants in Ohio were eating residents’ pets , he didn’t just win a second term. He became the first Republican in two decades to clinch the popular vote, although by a small margin. “It’s like the people have spoken and this is what America looks like,” said Smith, the Los Angeles-based founder of the advocacy social media agency, Get Social. “And there’s not too much more fighting that you’re going to be able to do without losing your own sanity.” After Trump was declared the winner over Democratic Vice President Kamala Harris , many politically engaged Black women said they were so dismayed by the outcome that they were reassessing — but not completely abandoning — their enthusiasm for electoral politics and movement organizing. Black women often carry much of the work of getting out the vote in their communities. They had vigorously supported the historic candidacy of Harris, who would have been the first woman of Black and South Asian descent to win the presidency. Harris’ loss spurred a wave of Black women across social media resolving to prioritize themselves, before giving so much to a country that over and over has shown its indifference to their concerns. AP VoteCast , a survey of more than 120,000 voters, found that 6 in 10 Black women said the future of democracy in the United States was the single most important factor for their vote this year, a higher share than for other demographic groups. But now, with Trump set to return to office in two months, some Black women are renewing calls to emphasize rest, focus on mental health and become more selective about what fight they lend their organizing power to. “America is going to have to save herself,” said LaTosha Brown, the co-founder of the national voting rights group Black Voters Matter. She compared Black women’s presence in social justice movements as “core strategists and core organizers” to the North Star, known as the most consistent and dependable star in the galaxy because of its seemingly fixed position in the sky. People can rely on Black women to lead change, Brown said, but the next four years will look different. “That’s not a herculean task that’s for us. We don’t want that title. ... I have no goals to be a martyr for a nation that cares nothing about me,” she said. AP VoteCast paints a clear picture of Black women’s concerns. Black female voters were most likely to say that democracy was the single most important factor for their vote, compared to other motivators such as high prices or abortion. More than 7 in 10 Black female voters said they were “very concerned” that electing Trump would lead the nation toward authoritarianism, while only about 2 in 10 said this about Harris. About 9 in 10 Black female voters supported Harris in 2024, according to AP VoteCast, similar to the share that backed Democrat Joe Biden in 2020. Trump received support from more than half of white voters, who made up the vast majority of his coalition in both years. Like voters overall, Black women were most likely to say the economy and jobs were the most important issues facing the country, with about one-third saying that. But they were more likely than many other groups to say that abortion and racism were the top issues, and much less likely than other groups to say immigration was the top issue. Despite those concerns, which were well-voiced by Black women throughout the campaign, increased support from young men of color and white women helped expand Trump’s lead and secured his victory. Politically engaged Black women said they don’t plan to continue positioning themselves in the vertebrae of the “backbone” of America’s democracy. The growing movement prompting Black women to withdraw is a shift from history, where they are often present and at the forefront of political and social change. One of the earliest examples is the women’s suffrage movement that led to ratification in 1920 of the 19th Amendment to the Constitution , which gave women the right to vote. Black women, however, were prevented from voting for decades afterward because of Jim Crow-era literacy tests, poll taxes and laws that blocked the grandchildren of slaves from voting. Most Black women couldn’t vote until the Voting Rights Act of 1965. Black women were among the organizers and counted among the marchers brutalized on the Edmund Pettus Bridge in Alabama, during the historic march in 1965 from Selma to Montgomery that preceded federal legislation. Decades later, Black women were prominent organizers of the Black Lives Matter movement in response to the deaths of Black Americans at the hands of police and vigilantes. In his 2024 campaign, Trump called for leveraging federal money to eliminate diversity, equity and inclusion programs in government programs and discussions of race, gender or sexual orientation in schools. His rhetoric on immigration, including false claims that Black Haitian immigrants in Springfield, Ohio, were eating cats and dogs, drove support for his plan to deport millions of people . Tenita Taylor, a Black resident of Atlanta who supported Trump this year, said she was initially excited about Harris’ candidacy. But after thinking about how high her grocery bills have been, she feels that voting for Trump in hopes of finally getting lower prices was a form of self-prioritization. “People say, ‘Well, that’s selfish, it was gonna be better for the greater good,”’ she said. “I’m a mother of five kids. ... The things that (Democrats) do either affect the rich or the poor.” Some of Trump’s plans affect people in Olivia Gordon’s immediate community, which is why she struggled to get behind the “Black women rest” wave. Gordon, a New York-based lawyer who supported the Party for Socialism and Liberation’s presidential nominee, Claudia de la Cruz, worries about who may be left behind if the 92% of Black women voters who backed Harris simply stopped advocating. “We’re talking millions of Black women here. If millions of Black women take a step back, it absolutely leaves holes, but for other Black women,” she said. “I think we sometimes are in the bubble of if it’s not in your immediate circle, maybe it doesn’t apply to you. And I truly implore people to understand that it does.” Nicole Lewis, an Alabama-based therapist who specializes in treating Black women’s stress, said she’s aware that Black women withdrawing from social impact movements could have a fallout. But she also hopes that it forces a reckoning for the nation to understand the consequences of not standing in solidarity with Black women. “It could impact things negatively because there isn’t that voice from the most empathetic group,” she said. “I also think it’s going to give other groups an opportunity to step up. ... My hope is that they do show up for themselves and everyone else.” Brown said a reckoning might be exactly what the country needs, but it’s a reckoning for everyone else. Black women, she said, did their job when they supported Harris in droves in hopes they could thwart the massive changes expected under Trump. “This ain’t our reckoning,” she said. “I don’t feel no guilt.” AP polling editor Amelia Thomson DeVeaux and Associated Press writer Linley Sanders in Washington contributed to this report. The Associated Press Health and Science Department receives support from the Robert Wood Johnson Foundation. The AP is solely responsible for all content.
The elderly woman, who had set out on a leisurely walk near her home, took a wrong turn and became disoriented, leading her deep into the rugged terrain of the forest. Unfamiliar with her surroundings and without any means of communication, she found herself stranded and alone, facing the daunting challenge of surviving in the unforgiving wilderness.On November 21, Parachinar was struck by a horrific massacre when a security convoy, authorised to protect over 700 civilians, came under a brutal attack. More than 100 people were killed, including over 20 women and more than 20 children, between the ages of six months to 13 years. Many civilians were abducted by terrorists. The atrocities left the region in shock. The convoy was traveling to Parachinar to ensure the safe return of citizens after the government- and local terrorists - had set up roadblocks since October 11 which paralysed movement in the area. Eyewitnesses and videos circulating on social media show the horrifying details of the atrocity. Terrorists fired extensively at the convoy and then targeted the bodies, shooting them in the head to ensure that all life had truly left them. Survivors, including children and women, were subjected to unimaginable brutality—many were killed with knives, and their bodies thrown into sewerage drains. Many others are missing. Despite the overwhelming evidence in the form of videos and pictures shared on social media platforms, the authorities have imposed a media and internet blackout across the district, effectively silencing coverage of the tragedy. Kurram's sectarian conflict since 2007 This barbaric act is not an individual incident. Since 2007, Parachinar has been trapped in a tragic cycle of sectarian violence. Terror groups such as the Lashkar-e Jangvi, Dae'sh, The Tehreek-e-Taliban Pakistan (TTP), and other local militant groups have been carrying out comparable attacks over the past 17 years, killing over 3,000 people and injuring 5,000 more. The city of Parachinar has frequently found itself under siege, where it was either directly attacked or found access to help blocked. The militants would attack ambulances and destroy food supplies. For years, residents of Parachinar have suffered tremendous hardship. Families have lost their loved ones, children have grown up in fear, and mothers continue to mourn their sons and husbands. At least a generation of children growing up watching their fathers and uncles go to fight wars they never asked for, and wept when many of them never returned. Jaun Elia: An Enduring Legacy In Urdu Poetry Ten years after the flare up of violence proved to be especially bloody with multiple attacks. In January 2017, a crowded vegetable market became the site of a horrific terror attack, when a bomb went off killing over 50 people and injuring more than 100. Then in March 2017, 23 people had been killed when a car bomb blew up near an Imambargah, and 70 others were injured. In the aftermath of that blast, protests erupted in the region. But instead of addressing their grievances, the security forces fired on the demonstrators, claiming additional lives. Each attack added to the grief of a community already overwhelmed by loss, so much so that today there is no home in Parachinar without a martyr or a loved one who wasn't injured in the violence. Attacks against convoys are among the most horrific incidents in Parachinar's troubled history. Terrorists have long targetted convoys, slaughtering victims with knives, tearing apart bodies, burning passengers alive, and returning chopped heads to their families. Unable to retrieve the remains of their loved ones, several families felt forced to bury empty graves. Over time, these cruel deeds have been committed repeatedly, leaving the community permanently damaged. The region remains trapped in a brutal cycle of violence, yet media coverage has been limited, and government involvement in securing peace has been negligible. A long struggle for justice On November 8, residents of Parachinar had staged a peaceful march (Walk for Peace) for two days. Their demands included security, justice, and for the government to ensure they remain connected with the rest of the country. Despite facing decades of intermittent and bloody conflict, residents of this region chose to appeal for justice rather than resort to violence. The irony is clear. While this tragic incident took place, the mainstream media remained focused on political events such as the Pakistan Tehreek-e-Insaf's (PTI) impending 'final call' protest in the federal capital and the viral, indecent videos of different TikTokers. Pakistani media and news organisations have opted to cover petty issues for ratings and mostly ignored the tragedy, forcing the residents of Parachinar to mourn in isolation. Not Just A Number: Junaid Hafeez And His Lifelong Struggle Against The Odds The brutal murder in Parachinar provides an acute example of the region's chronic challenges of sectarianism, official disinterest, and extremist brutality Sectarianism and state negligence The state’s silence has been deafening. The government’s failure to secure Parachinar’s citizens and its alleged complicity in failing to tackle militant groups have fueled public outrage. The blocking of roads, the absence of effective security, and the lack of accountability for past incidents have left residents feeling abandoned by their country. Words of condemnation are insufficient to express the depth of loss in Parachinar. The brutal mass murder in Parachinar provides an acute example of the region's chronic challenges of sectarianism, official disinterest, and extremist brutality. Without accountability, this cycle of violence and sectarianism will continue to exist, putting more innocent lives in danger. It is serious that the state breaks its silence, addresses these systemic shortcomings, and prioritises the protection of every one of its citizens. Until then, the people of Parachinar remain trapped in a cycle of fear and violence, yearning for justice and peace. Development for peace As an urban planner, witnessing the difficulties in my hometown Parachinar strengthens my belief in the importance of peace and security and long-term sustainable development. Parachinar's geography, infrastructure, and connection with the rest of the country are important for its development, and the resilience of its people shows their desire for a prospering and peaceful city. No community, nor its people, can completely develop or prosper without a solid foundation of peace. Infrastructure and services are important, but they will only succeed in a conflict-free environment. The scenario in Parachinar currently highlights the need to include safety, unity in society, and involvement of the public in development plans and policies from the perspective of urban planning. Sustainable development includes more than simply constructing roads and buildings; it also requires a commitment to security, democratic governance, and the protection of human rights. Sindhi Comedy Pioneer Qadir Bux Mitho Faces Distress Amid Health Struggle Personal reflections and past experiences The Parachinar Valley was once known for its breathtaking beauty and rich cultural legacy. But of late it has become a symbol of dread and mourning. As a local who has witnessed these endless acts of violence since 2007, I can relate to the terrible toll it has taken on the people of Parachinar. My memories of Parachinar are extremely personal and terrifying, having witnessed my homeland bleed for nearly two decades. In 2007, when I was in the sixth grade studying at the local government school, the first waves of violence erupted. Schools suddenly shut down and all life came to a halt. It took nearly two years for the schools to reopen, but by then, the sounds of guns and rockets had grown so common that as children, we played outside even while missiles bombarded our village. When classes finally resumed, our teachers taught us how to react if a missile struck our school. We learned evacuation exercises in the following order: They instructed us to evacuate in an organised manner, with primary school children going first, followed by the middle and then upper grades. The exercises became a part of our daily routine, a sharp reminder of the vulnerability of life. However, the sense of normalcy was short-lived. Schools would often operate for a month, only to shut down for several months again as the violence escalated. Every trip felt like going to war. My family would bid farewell with prayers and tears, fearing they might not see me again. The journey from home to Peshawar or Islamabad was fraught with uncertainty One particular memory has stayed with me. When I was in the ninth grade, we were having a math exam and one of our greatest fears became reality - a missile struck our village mid-exam. It forced our teachers to evacuate us to a potato field nearly four to five kilometers away. Even after being evacuated, we sat on the ground and continued writing our papers. All the while the sounds of war kept growing closer, surrounding us. We completed our remaining exams in that field. As I grew older, the situation worsened. Roads leading to Parachinar became unsafe and were frequently closed. Visiting home became a perilous journey, undertaken only on Eid or other rare occasions. Every trip felt like going to war. My family would bid me farewell with prayers and tears, fearing they might not see me again. The journey from my home to Peshawar or Islamabad was always fraught with uncertainty. Families anxiously awaited updates until we reached our destinations in Peshawar or Islamabad, safe from the violence in the valley. From Diagnosis To Renewal: Finding Beauty In Struggle One of the most devastating incidents occurred in June 2017, when twin blasts on the 27th of Ramazan ripped through the valley. The bomb attack took place at RP Chowk just before the Iftar time as people prepared for Eid. As rescuers and bystanders rushed to help the victims of the first blast, a second blast occurred, resulting in over 100 deaths and 225 injuries. This tragedy was personal for me as I lost my cousin, Imtiaz Hussain — whom we called Zazi with affection and who worked at the AQH Hospital — who had rushed to help the injured after the first blast. He had rushed to save lives but ended up losing his own in the second blast. Parachinar’s story is one of resilience despite unimaginable suffering. Its people are tired of burying their loved ones and living in constant fear. Generations have grown up knowing nothing but violence, yet the people continue to demand peace and justice, refusing to retaliate with hatred. The region, rich in culture and history, has been left to suffer due to governmental negligence and insufficient efforts to bring lasting peace. Parachinar has been bleeding for over 17 years. Neglected by successive governments, the valley has witnessed countless dark episodes of terrorism, convoy attacks, land disputes, sectarian wars, and targeted blasts. Enough blood has been spilled. The people of Parachinar are tired of burying their loved ones. They deserve the right to live in safety, to dream of a future without fear, and to see an end to this cycle of violence. The time has come for the authorities to take some responsibility. It is also time for the authorities to prioritise development of Parachinar, from infrastructure, and education, to healthcare, and security to restore dignity and hope to the people of this valley. The government must ensure that the tragedies of the past are not repeated and that future generations can live in peace, free from the shadows of war and violence. The region needs urgent attention, with genuine efforts for peace, and justice for the lives lost. Trump's Victory: A Global Call For Change And Prioritising People Over Power
Blocked chimneys or vents can prevent carbon monoxide from being properly vented outside. This can occur due to debris, snow accumulation, or bird nests. Symptoms of CO poisoning from blocked vents include headaches, dizziness, and nausea. To avoid this, make sure chimneys and vents are clear of obstructions and properly maintained.
This response has ignited a heated discussion among the public, with many expressing both confusion and skepticism about this policy. Some have raised questions about the risks associated with allowing knives on trains, while others have defended the decision citing the need for self-protection in certain situations. Regardless of the differing opinions, it is clear that this issue raises important considerations about safety and security in public transportation.Variety ’s first-ever Faith & Media Impact Report recognizes a thriving segment of the entertainment industry that includes storytellers across the religion spectrum, artists and executives creating value-driven fare, offering uplifting creative experiences to people of all faiths. On Dec. 4, the Variety Faith and Spirituality in Entertainment Honors presented by the Coalition for Faith and Media will celebrate the people in report as well as Viola Davis and Julius Tennon (JuVee Prods.), “Bob Marley: One Love” accepted by Ziggy Marley, with an introduction by the CFAM, showrunner Erica Lipez (“We Were the Lucky Ones”), actor Jessica Matten (“Dark Winds”), actor Arian Moayed (co-founder, Waterwell), actor Sheryl Lee Ralph (“Abbott Elementary”) and author Jay Shetty. President and CEO Great American Media Thanks to his leadership building up the Hallmark Channel and its associated networks, Abbott was already a Broadcasting Hall of Famer in 2021 when he co-founded Great American Media. Abbott started with a pair of cable networks and then launched the brand’s “Great American Christmas” franchise. Since then, the company has expanded to comprise a FAST channel, an app and a streaming service, Great American Pure Flix, which will air 19 Christmas films this holiday season. “[It is] extraordinarily rewarding to hear from our viewers personally about how much they love our quality, original content,” says Abbott, “and especially how much they appreciate our efforts to positively influence culture.” Actor Ali converted to Islam in 2000 and has been involved in philanthropic and interfaith organizations for years, lending his voice to advocacy initiatives. The first Muslin to win a “best” Oscar, Ali starred as Sheikh Ali in six episodes of “Ramy,” Ramy Youssef’s series that followed the life of a twentysomething guy who happens to be Muslim. It was a character that Ali and Youssef both prayed about and for which Youssef consulted his own sheikh about. (He loved it.) The “Green Book” star has been in the forefront of Artists4Ceasefire, a collective formed in October 2023 in response to the “humanitarian crisis unfolding in Israel and Palestine,” according to the group. In September, the group launched a new campaign, “Ceasefire Now, Stop Weapons, Save Lives” that urges the halt to what it says are “weapons transfers that violate U.S. and international law.” Producer, “Mary” Aloe led the charge to bring a new retelling of the story of Mary, the mother of Jesus, to Netflix, this time as an action-survival thriller. While consulting with scholars and clergy to ensure authenticity to the time, her team emphasized aspects of the story that had been downplayed in the past, including her determination to evade King Herod’s efforts to kill the prophesied messiah in the womb. “We made this film to bring to the world an opportunity to better understand Mary’s incredible commitment and sacrifice to life, as a mother,” says Aloe. “We wanted [people] to understand that her calling, against all odds, was bound by faith and driven by courage, and that she never gave up.” Actor, producer, musician The British-born Ahmed has long been an advocate for Muslim voices and South Asians in media. He’s on the selection committee of the Desi List, a partnership between The Black List and The Salon that evaluates scripts, and in 2021 led the creation of the Blueprint for Muslim Inclusion, as well as the Pillars Artist Fellowship, offering grantees an unrestricted award of $25,000. Both are in partnership with the USC Annenberg Inclusion Initiative, the Ford Foundation and Pillars Fund. Upcoming, he has reteamed with “Long Goodbye” director Aneil Karia for “Hamlet,” which stars Amed as the melancholy Dane, and is creator and star of Prime series “Quarter Life.” Director Cannes Film Festival prize-winner “Emilia Pérez” deals with thorny problems: Can one literally become a different person by changing one’s body? Having done wrong, having been truly immoral, can one redeem one’s life through good acts? Audaciously, auteur Audiard explores that dilemma through a musical (!) about a lethal drug cartel leader who fakes his own death so (s)he can transition to being a woman (the titular Emilia), and who then starts an organization to help the families of cartel victims. Variety critic Peter Debruge called the film “dazzling and instantly divisive.” Audiard challenges his audience by using a figure that many would ostracize, both for their life as a drug lord and for being a trans woman, to embody the complexity of good and evil within a single soul. Based on Robert Harris’ bestselling 2016 novel detailing the political intrigues and crises of personal faith among the Catholic Church’s cardinals as they grapple with finding a successor to the recently expired pope, “Conclave” firmly sides with the Church’s reformers over its moss-backed traditionalists. “The church is what we do next,” says one key member of this cloistered clan as his words become the light of an uplifting shift that takes “Conclave” from a tale of petty foibles to a bold statement about the power of love as the hand of God. Berger notes: “As Leonard Cohen says, ‘There’s a crack in everything; that’s how the light gets in.’ In ‘Conclave,’ we move through the oldest patriarchal institution in the world. At the end of the movie, the foundations of this institution have a crack. And behind that crack there is a light. A light of hope for a world that embraces change.” Founder & CEO, Mission Pictures Intl. “Having been one in a very small group of consistent modern day faith film pioneers, it’s been incredibly exciting to see the floodgates of opportunity open throughout Hollywood,” says Bond. Variety flagged the golf-pro- turned-actor-turned-fledgling-producer Bond as “one to watch” in 1996. In the years since, her inspirational films include “Redeeming Love,” “I Can Only Imagine” and Hallmark film “Enchanted Christmas.” She boasts dozens of credits as producer or executive producer with more projects announced and in development, including a sequel she birthed. Going forward, she aims to “continue my pursuit of commercial excellence to produce film and television projects that inspire audiences worldwide.” Kingdom Story Co. has a sterling track record in faith-friendly entertainment; they have had six releases with an A+ Cinemascore rating, including 2023’s “Jesus Revolution.” And they’ve been busy, with recent theatrical releases “Ordinary Angels,” “Unsung Hero,” “White Bird” and “The Best Christmas Pageant Ever” (directed by Dallas Jenkins, who is also on this list), with “The Unbreakable Boy” coming in 2025, all in partnership with Lionsgate. CEO Downes says, “I am proud that each of these films has not only entertained but also sparked conversations about faith and resilience.” Chief creative officer Andy Erwin adds, “I’m excited to continue using film to bridge the gap between faith and entertainment.” Producer-Actor “Touched by an Angel” established Downey in the firmament of faith entertainment stars and she has never given up her commitment to that space. She produced 2023’s “On a Wing and a Prayer” for Amazon Prime. In 2024, she was back on the streamer with “The Baxters,” for which she is exec producer and plays the family matriarch. “I lovingly nurtured and developed [‘The Baxters’] over a number of years, and to see it finally on the screen and to hear the beautiful reactions to it has been very gratifying,” she says. Downey launched shingle Mrs. B Prods. that will make her next Amazon project, a holiday rom-com to star Zooey Deschanel and Charlie Cox. Writer-director-actor, “A Real Pain” When Eisenberg visited his grandmother’s onetime home in Poland — the house is a location in the film — he was so moved he determined to share the experience, first through a play, then through his film “A Real Pain.” A buddy picture about a pair of estranged cousins visiting their ancestral shtetl isn’t obviously a story about a spiritual journey. But usually, spiritual journeys are spurred by pain, and the cousins are suppressing plenty of it, including grief for their grandmother. “[‘A Real Pain’ is] questioning what is real and what is valid pain,” says Eisenberg. The film shows that sometimes the first step toward healing is restoring connection, and that is inherently spiritual. The Wonder Project launched in Decemeber 2023, with backing from UTA, Lionsgate, Jason Blum and others, as an independent production company “focused on telling stories that restore faith in things worth believing in.” Founder Jon Erwin and CEO Kelly Merryman Hoogstraten bring plenty of experience to their new endeavor. Hoogstraten was a senior executive at YouTube and Netflix; Erwin shared directing, writing and producing credit on “Jesus Revolution.” “Entertaining with a purpose is a magical, beautiful privilege because it really can change people’s lives,” he says. The Wonder Project hit the ground running; it has already shot the TV series “House of David” in 2024. “I’m so proud,” says Hoogstraten, “because it truly is an epic series. I can’t wait for a global audience to see it.” Until this year, the Foster sisters were known for “The World’s First Podcast With Erin and Sara Foster” and for their clothing line, Favorite Daughter. But their lives changed after Erin, who identified as agnostic, fell in love with and married a Jewish man and converted to Judaism. They worked up a TV pitch based on her experiences — which almost everyone passed on, except Netflix. Today, “Nobody Wants This” is delighting audiences by mining laughs in the connection between two people with profoundly different outlooks. “I don’t think you can ever prepare yourself for the response the show has gotten,” says Sara. Netflix has renewed it for a second season. CEO, Franklin Entertainment Variety named Franklin as a producer to watch in 2016, two years after he launched his company, and he has justified the choice in multiple ways. He’s an ordained minister, a best-selling author, a motivational speaker and producer with both theatrical films (“Flamin’ Hot”) and television series (“Kingdom Business”) among his credits; he’s also an AMPAS governor-at-large. In May, he announced a partnership with Tyler Perry to produce faith-based films for Netflix, and he has a first-look deal with CBS. “I feel like I’m just getting started,” he says. “I still want to accomplish finding more ways to bring people hope and inspire people.” Actor Gere has been associated with Tibet and Buddhism for half a century, but his free-Tibet activism has sometimes overshadowed his advocacy for Buddhist practice. Yet he has dedicated time to Buddhist meditation every day throughout that time, and he has been generous about explaining what he does and what he’s learned. In a 2022 interview, he said his greatest takeaway from Buddhism has been “that the best way to navigate the world we live in, samsara, is through a sense of universal responsibility. That there’s no one outside of our concern. There’s no thing outside of our concern. To the extent that we are able to develop ourselves, we are responsible for the whole universe.” The actor and activist can be seen in Paul Schrader’s “Oh, Canada” and Paramount+ thriller “The Agency.” Director, “Bob Marley: One Love” In his first feature as director, “Monsters and Men,” Green’s characters grappled with painful moral dilemmas in a world tinged with violence. With “Bob Marley: One Love,” his titular hero, already injured once in an assassination attempt, faced a pivotal choice: whether to return to the stage and share his message of hope and love through his music, or not. Green calls the film “one of the most important projects of my career so far, both personally and professionally. I’m honored audiences around the world continue to share their love of the film and Bob through his music, his family and his legacy.” Showrunner, “Reservation Dogs” The beloved FX series was shot with themes of community, family, friendship, love and loss, seen through the eyes of four Native American teens in Oklahoma. Harjo, himself a Native American from Oklahoma, used mostly Indigenous talent, both in front of and behind the camera. The series also weaves in spirituality, with the characters talking with dead ancestors, having visions and allowing a look at Indigenous traditions and rites around important milestones. “Dogs” also features Spirit, played by Dallas Goldtooth, who regularly appears to guide Bear (D’Pharaoh Woon-A-Tai) as the young man tries to get through life. And, oh yeah, the show is very funny too. Harjo and Goldtooth have both joined with the National Native American Boarding School Healing Coalition to promote passage of the Truth and Healing Commission on Indian Boarding School Policies Act. Angel Studios made a splash with the feature “Sound of Freedom,” which grossed some $251 million worldwide. But what may be even more impressive is its business model, which crowdsources choices about what to distribute to the 375,000 members of the Angel Guild — 104,000 of those members have invested $80 million in Angel Studios projects. On the slate for 2025, the studio reunites with “Sound of Freedom” director Alejandro Monteverde for “Bethlehem,” the Massacre of the Innocents story reimagined as a thriller, “Rule Breakers,” about the girls who defiantly formed a robotics team in Afghanistan, and “The Last Rodeo,” based on the true story of bull rider Joe Wainwright. Founder & CEO, UP Entertainment, UPtv More than a half-century after he took his first job in television production, and more than 20 years after he founded UP Entertainment, Humbard is still finding new ways to uplift viewers. UP Entertainment has a diverse array of brands and networks, but their unifying goal is to provide inspiring programming. In 2024 he struck a partnership with Minno, a subscription streaming service aimed at kids. A future goal, he says, is to “grow our streaming service, UP Faith & Family, to 15 million subscribers as the leading independent faith and family brand.” He is going beyond business deals, too: He created the company’s internal initiative “UPlift Someone,” which reminds others that simple acts of kindness can make a difference. Executive producer, “The Chosen” Jenkins’s Netflix’s hit “The Chosen” has turned into the mothership for a multi-show franchise. Production has begun on an animated spinoff, “The Chosen Adventures,” and an outdoor reality show featuring the Bear Grylls and the cast of “The Chosen.” This year, Jenkins held the second ChosenCon in Orlando and launched a new production company, 5&2 Studios, that will take over production of “The Chosen.” Meanwhile, he directed the theatrical feature “The Best Christmas Pageant Ever” for Kingdom Story Co. and Lionsgate, a pic he says he’s wanted to make for almost 20 years. “I genuinely don’t develop specific goals about the future anymore, so I’ll just say I hope to continue to be telling God stories for the rest of my life,” he says. He’s already on that path, with two more Bible-inspired series in development. Singer, actor, artist, advocate Jewel has long been a mental health advocate but she took that side of her life to a new level with “The Portal: An Art Experience by Jewel” at the Crystal Bridges Museum of American Art in Bentonville, Ark. Jewel designed the audio-visual art experience to be a space for reflection, connection, and transformation, aiming to induce introspection, self-awareness and well-being in attendees. “A middle-aged journalist from a hard-boiled publication came up to me at the end of ‘The Portal’ weeping,” she says, “and told me how much the experience meant to him. It was profoundly humbling.” Director, “All We Imagine as Light” Indian helmer Kapadia’s third feature played in May’s Cannes festival competition and won the Grand Jury Prize. The film follows two overworked nurses — who are also roommates — in bustling, crowded Mumbai, their shared experience that creates unshakeable bonds between them, and how that friendship can lift up their souls and free them. “I was interested in looking at friendship, a relationship that has no real definition. As one grows older, our friends become a stronger support system to us, sometimes even more than our families,” said Kapadia in press notes. As Variety’s Jesica Kiang wrote in her review of the film: “The light is all around them, and if they have to imagine it, it’s only because they cannot see it emanates from within.” Director, “Red One” Some now-beloved holiday films were greeted coolly at first — “It’s Wonderful Life,” and “The Polar Express,” to name two — and Amazon’s big Christmas actioner “Red One” may become a perennial treat, too, despite its critical drubbing. Santa is a superstar of this fantasy world, not because he brings presents, but because he never gives up on anyone. His bodyguard/security chief Callum (Dwayne Johnson) has lost that faith and the film’s dramatic drive comes from his need to regain his belief in humanity. Even Santa’s demonic brother, Krampus, shows up with a soft spot for his goody-sleigh-shoes sibling. “Red One” is big, loud and frantic but its heart is filled with the Holiday Spirit. Actor, musician Quaid laid bare his personal struggles on his hit inspirational album “Fallen: A Gospel Record for Sinners,” which reveals a daily struggle that many in recovery — like Quaid — can relate to. Long a spiritual seeker, he told Variety in 2023 that he “originally identified as Christian, then I turned to Buddhism, and I read the Dhammapada and then I read the Quran and the Bhagavad Gita and I read the Bible four times, cover to cover.” Today, the “Reagan” star says, “I talk to God a lot, every day. I question everything I do. I believe it’s about keeping trying. It’s about self-examination and throwing your ego out the door.” Writer-director, “The Wild Robot” If spirituality is a search for meaning and connection with something greater than ourselves, “The Wild Robot” finds it in an unlikely soul: Roz the robot, who transcends her programming to become parent and protector of a gosling. “It was the kindness that flowed through the narrative which we all fell in love with,” says Sanders. “Roz is a programmed machine, so the aspirational altitudes she inhabited didn’t just belong, they were the heart and soul of the story.” Based on Peter Brown’s award-winning novel, and steered by Sanders’ sure hand, “The Wild Robot” shows how connecting with nature can awaken compassion and empathy in any heart, even a silicon one. Filmmaker-producer Scorsese’s approach to “The Last Temptation of Christ” was off-putting to some doctrinaire Christians but few directors have grappled as openly or as deeply with the meaning of Catholicism and the Bible. With docudrama series “Martin Scorsese Presents: The Saints,” which he produced and narrated, he has gone beyond the Bible to examine the acts of holy men and women. “These are stories of eight very different men and women ... struggling to follow the way of love revealed to them and to us by Jesus’ words in the Gospels,” he said in a statement. He’s also in pre-production for “A Life of Jesus,” described as “an unconventional take” on the life of Christ. Founding partner & CEO, Pinnacle Peak Pictures “Faith films appeal beyond the Christian audience,” says Scott. “Time and time again I see people from all walks of life looking for films that inspire or uplift their spirit regardless of their background.” Scott speaks from experience: he has been producing for almost 25 years and has more than 40 feature films and nine TV series among his producer credits. He’s co-founder of faith-friendly streaming service Pure Flix and of Pinnacle Peak Pictures, which had two releases in 2024: “God’s Not Dead: In God We Trust,” the latest entry in the popular “God’s Not Dead” franchise; and “Average Joe.” Director, producer He describes himself as an atheist and his films often take a dim view of organized religion, but that belies the respect for spiritual practice shown in his films and his critical view of society’s moral failings. In “Exodus: Gods and Kings,” he framed Moses’ story as the creation of an ethical system that does not depend on the regular intervention of a deity. “Gladiator” treated the ancestor worship of pre-Christian Rome seriously, and in “Gladiator II,” it’s the heroes of the tale who put their faith in their fellow man and in building a fair and uncorrupt society. Scott’s interest in individual spiritual searchers and his films’ pleas for us all to live better represents an individualistic but profound form of faith. If rabbis are unusual characters in films, cantors are downright rare, and adult bat mitzvahs are unheard of. Screwball comedy “Between the Temples” brings together two people at a crossroads: A widowed cantor who’s lost his voice, and his childhood music teacher, now also widowed and exploring her Jewish heritage for the first time. Filmmakers Silver and Wells enlisted consultants to make sure they adhered to the letter and spirit of Judaism. “We’d ask them a question and they’d be like, well, it depends,” says Silver. “There are a million possible answers. And that is Judaism: it’s a life spent questioning.” The Smallbone duo have had 13 No. 1 hits; their music has been streamed more than 2 billion times; and they’ve won numerous awards including four Grammys. Now they’ve made the leap to movies. Joel made his feature film directing debut, co-helming (as well as starring in and co-writing) “Unsung Hero,” for Kingdom Story Co. and Lionsgate. Luke is a producer on the pic. The picture, based on the Smallbone family’s own story, spawned an album and a concert tour. “My greatest sense of surprise recently,” Joel says, “has been in the fact that we were actually able to cross the bridge from music to movies and pull it off with a little bit of grit and flair and artistic narrative integrity.” Writer-producer, “Genius: MLK/X” As a playwright and TV writer, Stetson has long portrayed Black leaders and men of faith. With “Genius: MLK/X,” he looked at the lives of two martyred civil rights icons: Dr. Martin Luther King Jr. and Malcolm X. The series is inspired in part by Stetson’s own stage play “The Meeting,” imagining the sole meeting between the two. King and X embraced different religions, methods and philosophies, but “Genius” shows that both men leaned on their faith as they took stands that endangered their lives, with King speaking out against the Vietnam war and X leaving the Nation of Islam to become a Sunni Muslim. “I write with a love for the people I represent and the belief that individuals are capable of great change and achievement,” Stetson said in a 2016 interview. “More than anything else, I write not only about what is true but what can become true with courage, honor and dedication.” Adapted from August Wilson’s play (Washington calls the process of adaptation “a terrifying and sacred undertaking”) Netflix’s “The Piano Lesson” illuminates how connection with ancestors feeds spiritual connection. The Depression-era Charles family is wrestling with ghosts — both literally and figuratively. They’re haunted by the slave owner who tormented their family long ago and torn over how to deal with their family legacy. A minister tries an exorcism, but for this family, healing comes not from the power of the Lord but from making peace with their forebears. “May this work be an offering to the ancestors, a humble act of gratitude and tribute to them,” says Washington of the film. Musician-actor Williams, like so many others in entertainment, has basked in fame only to have to reinvent himself as fans moved on. In “Piece by Piece,” which was released Oct. 11, he tells his life story through animated Lego pieces. Having tasted the bitter and the sweet, he has strong ideas about faith. In published interviews, he’s said he’s felt the power of the Word, but he believes some people aren’t made to be religious. “Do I think that Christianity is the only way?” he wonders. “No. I think the only route for everything is their connection to God.” It’s unconventional but inclusive view that suits him, just as the film does. Actor “I believe, and I know, that we are spiritual beings having a human experience ... So why does the storytelling oftentimes not reflect this reality?” Wilson wondered onstage at a February Variety event. He’s long been trying to address that issue, from the founding of Soul Pancake in 2008 through his book “Soul Boom: Why We Need a Spiritual Revolution” and the launch this year of his Soul Boom podcast. The SAG Award winner says, “My journey tiptoeing into the world of kind of spirituality and in media really came from some mental health crises that I had undergone as a youth, and some issues that I’d had where I found great solace and peace and meaning through spirituality.” Singer-songwriter Singer-songwriter Zain is one of the biggest stars in the Islamic nasheed music genre. Mixing his devotional lyrics with contemporary pop and R&B beats, Zain has enjoyed popularity that’s expanded beyond the Middle East since he emerged 15 years ago. He’s also a tireless charity concert performer, raising millions for war-torn regions such as Syria and Lebanon. Earlier this month, he released a new song, “Lebanon,” a plea for peace that has racked up 500,000 views on his YouTube channel with 6 million followers.Six of top10 most valued firms add Rs 86,847.88 crore
TEL AVIV, Israel (AP) — An Israeli hospital says Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu has undergone successful prostate surgery. Jerusalem’s Hadassah Medical Center said his prostate was removed late Sunday. Netanyahu was placed under full anesthesia for the procedure. Doctors said he was awake and recovering Sunday night. Netanyahu’s office had said Justice Minister Yariv Levin, a close ally, would serve as acting prime minister during the procedure. Doctors ordered the operation after detecting an infection last week. Netanyahu is expected to remain hospitalized for several days. THIS IS A BREAKING NEWS UPDATE. AP’s earlier story follows below. TEL AVIV, Israel (AP) — Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu is having his prostate removed on Sunday, his office said, a procedure that comes as he manages multiple crises including the war in Gaza and his trial for alleged corruption . Netanyahu, who has had a series of health issues in recent years, has gone to great lengths to bolster a public image of himself as a healthy, energetic leader. During his trial this month, he boasted about working 18-hour days, accompanied by a cigar. But as Israel's longest-serving leader, such a grueling workload over a total of 17 years in power could take a toll on his well-being. Netanyahu, 75, is among older world leaders including U.S. President Joe Biden, 82 , President-elect Donald Trump, 78 , Brazil's President Luiz Inácio Lula da Silva , 79, and Pope Francis , 88, who have come under scrutiny for their age and health issues. Netanyahu's latest condition is common in older men, but the procedure has had some fallout. The judges overseeing his trial accepted a request from his lawyer on Sunday to call off three days of testimony scheduled this week. The lawyer, Amit Hadad, had argued that Netanyahu would be fully sedated for the procedure and hospitalized for “a number of days.” Netanyahu's office said Justice Minister Yariv Levin, a close ally, would serve as acting prime minister during the procedure. With so much at stake, Netanyahu’s health in wartime is a concern for both Israelis and the wider world. A turbulent time in the region As Israel’s leader, Netanyahu is at the center of major global events that are shifting the Middle East . With the dizzying pace of the past 14 months, being incapacitated for even a few hours can be risky. Netanyahu will be in the hospital at a time when international mediators are pushing Israel and Hamas to reach a ceasefire in Gaza and as fighting between Israel and Yemen’s Iran-backed Houthi rebels intensifies . Prostate issues are common and in many cases easily treatable. Still, the procedure puts a dent in Netanyahu’s image of vigor at a time when he would want to project strength more than ever, both to an Israeli audience navigating constant threats as well as to Israel’s enemies looking to expose its weaknesses. Previous health issues, including a heart condition Netanyahu insists he is in excellent health. His office releases footage of him touring war zones in full protective gear flanked by military officers, or meeting with defense officials on windswept hilltops in youthful dark shades and puffer jackets. But that image was shattered last year when Netanyahu’s doctors revealed that he had a heart condition , a problem that he had apparently long known about but concealed from the public. A week after a fainting spell, Netanyahu was fitted with a pacemaker to control his heartbeat. Only then did staff at the Sheba Medical Center reveal that Netanyahu has for years experienced a condition that can cause irregular heartbeats. The revelation came as Netanyahu was dealing with massive anti-government protests. The news about a chronic heart problem stoked further anger and distrust during extreme political polarization in Israel. Last year, Netanyahu was rushed to the hospital for what doctors said likely was dehydration . He stayed overnight, prompting his weekly Cabinet meeting to be delayed. Earlier this year, Netanyahu underwent hernia surgery , during which he was under full anesthesia and unconscious. Levin served as acting prime minister during the operation. Recovery can be quick According to Netanyahu’s office, the Israeli leader was diagnosed with a urinary tract infection on Wednesday stemming from a benign enlargement of his prostate. The infection was treated successfully with antibiotics, but Sunday's procedure will remove his prostate. Complications from prostate enlargement are common in men in their 70s and 80s, Dr. Shay Golan, head of the oncology urology service at Israel’s Rabin Medical Center, told Israeli Army Radio. Golan spoke in general terms and was not involved in Netanyahu’s care or treatment. He said an enlarged prostate can block proper emptying of the bladder, leading to a build-up of urine that can lead to an infection or other complications. After medicinal treatment, doctors can recommend a procedure to remove the prostate to prevent future blockages, Golan said. In Netanyahu’s case, because the prostate is not cancerous, Golan said doctors will likely perform an endoscopic surgery, carried out by inserting small instruments into a body cavity, rather than making surgical cuts in the abdomen to reach the prostate. The procedure lasts about an hour, Golan said, and recovery is quick. He said that aside from catheter use for one to three days after the procedure, patients can return to normal activity without significant limitations. Tia Goldenberg, The Associated PressKansas once required voters to prove citizenship. That didn’t work out so wellAs the transfer window approaches its climax, all eyes are on Neymar and his quest to secure a move to Barcelona. The intricate dance of negotiations, regulations, and personal desires continues to unfold, with the footballing world eagerly anticipating the final outcome. Whether Neymar will realize his dream of reuniting with Barcelona remains to be seen, but one thing is certain - his unwavering determination and passion for the game will guide his decisions as he navigates the complexities of the transfer market.
Title: Sparkling Transformation: Xiang Zuo and Zhao Xiaohua's Hairstyling Experience Brings Classic Joy to the KitchenStock market today: Losses for Big Tech pull US indexes lowerFurthermore, the homogenization of content in the entertainment industry has also contributed to the waning popularity of traditional puppetry dramas. As production companies and streaming platforms prioritize profitability and mass appeal, there is a tendency to produce content that conforms to popular trends and formulas, resulting in a lack of diversity and originality in storytelling. This homogenization has led to a saturation of similar themes, styles, and narratives, making it difficult for ancient puppetry dramas to stand out and attract a dedicated audience.Stock market today: Indexes slide as tech sell-off ends 7-day winning streak
As one of the major players in East Asia, China has always attached great importance to its relationship with South Korea. The recent developments in the bilateral ties between China and South Korea have once again brought the issue into the spotlight. The Chinese Ministry of Foreign Affairs has reiterated that China's position on China-South Korea relations is consistent and that it respects South Korea's internal affairs.Cai Guo-Qiang, known for his innovative and thought-provoking works of art, expressed his regret over the incident and stressed the need for caution when using technology in art performances. In a statement following the mishap, he emphasized the inherent risks associated with incorporating drones and other tech-driven elements in live shows and called for a collective effort to prioritize safety above all else.Quarterbacks in spotlight when No. 6 Miami visits SyracuseCJ 4DPLEX and Cinema West Sign Multi-Theater Deal To Launch 270-Degree Panoramic ScreenX and Multisensory 4DX Auditoriums Across California
Foundation launches femicide tracker for 16 days of activism against GBVThe successful listing of Maogeping underscores the growing demand for cutting-edge technologies and digital solutions in the global market. As a leading player in the AI industry, Maogeping is well positioned to capitalize on the increasing reliance on technology in various sectors, ranging from healthcare to finance.
TOPEKA, Kan. (AP) — Republicans made claims about illegal voting by noncitizens a centerpiece of their 2024 campaign messaging and plan to push legislation in the new Congress requiring voters to provide proof of U.S. citizenship. Yet there's one place with a GOP supermajority where linking voting to citizenship appears to be a nonstarter: Kansas. That's because the state has been there, done that, and all but a few Republicans would prefer not to go there again. Kansas imposed a proof-of-citizenship requirement over a decade ago that grew into one of the biggest political fiascos in the state in recent memory. The law, passed by the state Legislature in 2011 and implemented two years later, ended up blocking the voter registrations of more than 31,000 U.S. citizens who were otherwise eligible to vote. That was 12% of everyone seeking to register in Kansas for the first time. Federal courts ultimately declared the law an unconstitutional burden on voting rights, and it hasn't been enforced since 2018. Kansas provides a cautionary tale about how pursuing an election concern that in fact is extremely rare risks disenfranchising a far greater number of people who are legally entitled to vote. The state’s top elections official, Secretary of State Scott Schwab, championed the idea as a legislator and now says states and the federal government shouldn't touch it. “Kansas did that 10 years ago,” said Schwab, a Republican. “It didn’t work out so well.” Steven Fish, a 45-year-old warehouse worker in eastern Kansas, said he understands the motivation behind the law. In his thinking, the state was like a store owner who fears getting robbed and installs locks. But in 2014, after the birth of his now 11-year-old son inspired him to be “a little more responsible” and follow politics, he didn’t have an acceptable copy of his birth certificate to get registered to vote in Kansas. “The locks didn’t work,” said Fish, one of nine Kansas residents who sued the state over the law. “You caught a bunch of people who didn’t do anything wrong.” Kansas' experience appeared to receive little if any attention outside the state as Republicans elsewhere pursued proof-of-citizenship requirements this year. Arizona enacted a requirement this year, applying it to voting for state and local elections but not for Congress or president. The Republican-led U.S. House passed a proof-of-citizenship requirement in the summer and plans to bring back similar legislation after the GOP won control of the Senate in November. In Ohio, the Republican secretary of state revised the form that poll workers use for voter eligibility challenges to require those not born in the U.S. to show naturalization papers to cast a regular ballot. A federal judge declined to block the practice days before the election. Also, sizable majorities of voters in Iowa, Kentucky, Missouri, Oklahoma, South Carolina and the presidential swing states of North Carolina and Wisconsin were inspired to amend their state constitutions' provisions on voting even though the changes were only symbolic. Provisions that previously declared that all U.S. citizens could vote now say that only U.S. citizens can vote — a meaningless distinction with no practical effect on who is eligible. To be clear, voters already must attest to being U.S. citizens when they register to vote and noncitizens can face fines, prison and deportation if they lie and are caught. “There is nothing unconstitutional about ensuring that only American citizens can vote in American elections,” U.S. Rep. Chip Roy, of Texas, the leading sponsor of the congressional proposal, said in an email statement to The Associated Press. After Kansas residents challenged their state's law, both a federal judge and federal appeals court concluded that it violated a law limiting states to collecting only the minimum information needed to determine whether someone is eligible to vote. That's an issue Congress could resolve. The courts ruled that with “scant” evidence of an actual problem, Kansas couldn't justify a law that kept hundreds of eligible citizens from registering for every noncitizen who was improperly registered. A federal judge concluded that the state’s evidence showed that only 39 noncitizens had registered to vote from 1999 through 2012 — an average of just three a year. In 2013, then-Kansas Secretary of State Kris Kobach, a Republican who had built a national reputation advocating tough immigration laws, described the possibility of voting by immigrants living in the U.S. illegally as a serious threat. He was elected attorney general in 2022 and still strongly backs the idea, arguing that federal court rulings in the Kansas case “almost certainly got it wrong.” Kobach also said a key issue in the legal challenge — people being unable to fix problems with their registrations within a 90-day window — has probably been solved. “The technological challenge of how quickly can you verify someone’s citizenship is getting easier,” Kobach said. “As time goes on, it will get even easier.” The U.S. Supreme Court refused to hear the Kansas case in 2020. But in August, it split 5-4 in allowing Arizona to continue enforcing its law for voting in state and local elections while a legal challenge goes forward. Seeing the possibility of a different Supreme Court decision in the future, U.S. Rep.-elect Derek Schmidt says states and Congress should pursue proof-of-citizenship requirements. Schmidt was the Kansas attorney general when his state's law was challenged. "If the same matter arose now and was litigated, the facts would be different," he said in an interview. But voting rights advocates dismiss the idea that a legal challenge would turn out differently. Mark Johnson, one of the attorneys who fought the Kansas law, said opponents now have a template for a successful court fight. “We know the people we can call," Johnson said. “We know that we’ve got the expert witnesses. We know how to try things like this.” He predicted "a flurry — a landslide — of litigation against this.” Initially, the Kansas requirement's impacts seemed to fall most heavily on politically unaffiliated and young voters. As of fall 2013, 57% of the voters blocked from registering were unaffiliated and 40% were under 30. But Fish was in his mid-30s, and six of the nine residents who sued over the Kansas law were 35 or older. Three even produced citizenship documents and still didn’t get registered, according to court documents. “There wasn’t a single one of us that was actually an illegal or had misinterpreted or misrepresented any information or had done anything wrong,” Fish said. He was supposed to produce his birth certificate when he sought to register in 2014 while renewing his Kansas driver's license at an office in a strip mall in Lawrence. A clerk wouldn't accept the copy Fish had of his birth certificate. He still doesn't know where to find the original, having been born on an Air Force base in Illinois that closed in the 1990s. Several of the people joining Fish in the lawsuit were veterans, all born in the U.S., and Fish said he was stunned that they could be prevented from registering. Liz Azore, a senior adviser to the nonpartisan Voting Rights Lab, said millions of Americans haven't traveled outside the U.S. and don't have passports that might act as proof of citizenship, or don't have ready access to their birth certificates. She and other voting rights advocates are skeptical that there are administrative fixes that will make a proof-of-citizenship law run more smoothly today than it did in Kansas a decade ago. “It’s going to cover a lot of people from all walks of life,” Avore said. “It’s going to be disenfranchising large swaths of the country.” Associated Press writer Julie Carr Smyth in Columbus, Ohio, contributed to this report.
Zhang Anda Advances to Last 32 in Snooker Scottish Open with Close Victory in Deciding Frame
Johnson scores 20, Tennessee Tech beats Presbyterian 90-75KYIV (AP) – At football games in Ukraine, crowd sizes are determined by the capacity of the nearest bomb shelter. For the first time since the war began in 2022, the Ukrainian Premier League is holding a full season with fans present, as martial-law bans on public gatherings have been eased. Despite the constant threat of airstrikes, Dynamo Kyiv supporters eagerly snap up the 1,700 tickets available for each home game at the 16,000-seat Valeriy Lobanovskyi Stadium. Many fans are keen to experience a rare moment of calm, free from the country’s traditionally intense sporting rivalries. While the war forced Dynamo to relocate its home matches in the Europa League to Hamburg, Germany, it uses its home stadium in Kyiv for domestic league matches. Vitalii Kozubra brought his nine-year-old son Makar to watch Dynamo, a title contender, face mid-table Zorya Luhansk. “Even though there’s a war going on, this is something people can enjoy together,” Kozubra said, noting the friendly atmosphere at the stadium, where Zorya fans mingled with locals. Makar marveled at the difference between watching a game in person and on television. As the players took the field, all 22 of them draped in Ukrainian yellow-and-blue flags, the crowd, which included servicemen and families with children, erupted in applause. The stadium was alive with the sound of players’ exertion and the thud of the ball. Children rushed to the touchline for autographs, drawn by the few foreign players from Brazil, Senegal, Ivory Coast and Panama who have chosen to remain despite the war. Zorya wasn’t booed once. Football players of Dynamo Kyiv and Zorya Luhansk great each other before a game. PHOTO: AP Vitalii Buyalskiy of Dynamo Kyiv and Oleksiy Khakhliyov of Zorya Luhansk compete for the ball. PHOTO: AP Ukrainian servicemen play football. PHOTO: AP Young fans ask for autographs after a match. PHOTO: AP SIRENS AND SHELTERS Ukraine’s 16-team top-flight league has managed to continue, despite increasing challenges. Matches are scheduled for early afternoon due to frequent power outages and the logistical challenges of travelling across Europe’s second-largest country during war. When air raid sirens interrupt play – sometimes for hours – players and fans alike head to shelters as alarms blare from loudspeakers and thousands of mobile phones. “This season, we’ve been lucky in Kyiv, with no air alarms during our home games,” said Dynamo club spokesman Andrii Shakhov. “But it’s a different story for away games... The longest one we had lasted four hours because of four air alarms.” Ukrainian football players are subject to the draft at age 25 but clubs can apply for exemptions under business protection rules. Two teams currently play permanently outside their home field due to the war, amid broader disruption, while two others withdrew after fighting started due to stadium damage. The country’s football tradition dates back to its Soviet past, when it was a football powerhouse, producing top-tier players and coaches. In the 1980s, fan movements often became expressions of Ukrainian identity. After 1991, football continued to be a source of national pride through years of political and financial turmoil. Ukraine reached the quarterfinals of the 2006 World Cup and co-hosted the 2012 European Championships. At home, supporters’ groups have set aside violent rivalries for more than a decade, ever since they united to back protesters during the deadly 2013-14 uprisings. “Dexter,” a red-bearded Dynamo supporter and civilian contractor for the military, explained why the truce among rival fan groups still holds. “It became necessary because we needed to unite against a common enemy. These internal conflicts lost their relevance when people from rival fan groups ended up fighting together in the same military units,” he said, while walking his dog along the banks of the Dnipro River. RIVALRIES SET ASIDE He added that fan organisations are involved in nearly every aspect of the war effort, from active combat duty to fundraising, veteran support, and providing technical skills like computer programming to the military. FOOTBALL FANS AT THE FRONT Eight hours east of Kyiv, in the Kharkiv region, servicemen from the 3rd Assault Brigade played a match on a field near bombed-out buildings. Many of these fighters had been recruited through football-related channels and acquaintances. “Organised fans play a huge role in this war because they’re highly motivated,” said a serviceman with the call sign “Shtahet”, a Dynamo supporter currently on deployment. Combat medic “Poltava” noted that football remains a vital morale booster. “We get together whenever we can and rent spaces to play,” he said. “There’s not much entertainment here, so football is our only joy.”Title: The Trend of Young People Choosing Disney for Study Sessions