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WASHINGTON, Dec. 4 (Xinhua) -- President-elect Donald Trump on Wednesday announced that he has nominated Paul Atkins, a former commissioner of the U.S. Securities and Exchange Commission (SEC), to be the agency's chairman. Atkins, the CEO & founder of Patomak Global Partners, a risk management consultancy, served as an SEC commissioner from 2002-2008 under President George W. Bush. The SEC has five commissioners, one of whom is designated as chairman by the president. The president nominates all five commissioners, and their appointments must be approved by the Senate. Founded in 1934 at the height of the Great Depression, the SEC's mission is to protect investors, maintain fair, orderly, and efficient markets, and facilitate capital formation. "Paul is a proven leader for common sense regulations. He believes in the promise of robust, innovative capital markets that are responsive to the needs of Investors, & that provide capital to make our Economy the best in the World," Trump said in a post on his social media platform Truth Social. "He also recognizes that digital assets & other innovations are crucial to Making America Greater than Ever Before," Trump noted. Also on Wednesday, Trump nominated Jared Isaacman, CEO of Shift4 who has led two private spaceflights, as the next administrator of the National Aeronautics and Space Administration (NASA), and Daniel P. Driscoll, a U.S. Army veteran and venture capitalist, to serve as the secretary of the Army. Both positions would need Senate approval. Trump also picked his ex-aide Peter Navarro to serve as senior counselor for trade and manufacturing in his next administration, and appointed David A. Warrington to serve as Assistant to the President and Counsel to the President.South Korea lifts president's martial law decree after lawmakers reject military rule
Microsoft announces quarterly dividendMichigan, Ohio State fight broken up with police pepper spray after Wolverines stun Buckeyes 13-10VANCOUVER, British Columbia, Dec. 03, 2024 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) -- Gatos Silver, Inc. (NYSE/TSX: GATO ) ("Gatos Silver" or the "Company") today announced the date of a special meeting of stockholders (the "Special Meeting") and the filing of its definitive proxy statement in connection with the previously announced Agreement and Plan of Merger (the "Merger Agreement") with First Majestic Silver Corp. ("First Majestic") (NYSE/TSX: AG ) FMV pursuant to which First Majestic will acquire all of the issued and outstanding shares of common stock of Gatos Silver (the "Transaction"). Gatos Silver notified its stockholders that the Special Meeting will take place virtually on Tuesday, January 14, 2025, at 10:00 a.m., Pacific Time. Stockholders of record as of November 25, 2024 (the "Record Date") are eligible to vote at the Special Meeting. Gatos Silver stockholders will be asked to vote on the adoption of the Merger Agreement and the adjournment of the Special Meeting in certain circumstances. Gatos Silver's Board of Directors unanimously recommends that Gatos Silver stockholders vote in favor of both proposals. First Majestic shareholders are required to approve the issuance of the First Majestic common shares in connection with the Transaction, and accordingly, First Majestic has announced that it will hold its shareholder meeting in-person on Tuesday, January 14, 2025, at 11:00 a.m., Pacific Time, one hour following the Special Meeting. For more information regarding First Majestic's shareholder meeting, see First Majestic's SEDAR+ profile at www.sedarplus.ca . Subject to the approval of Gatos Silver's stockholders and First Majestic's shareholders and the satisfaction or waiver of other conditions precedent, it is anticipated that the Transaction will close in early 2025. Gatos Silver currently expects to send the meeting materials for the Special Meeting to stockholders of record as of the Record Date on or about December 6, 2024; however, delivery of materials to some Canadian stockholders may be impacted by the ongoing Canada Post labour dispute which is affecting the delivery of mail within Canada. Important Information for Investors and Stockholders about the Transaction and Where to Find It This news release is not intended to and does not constitute an offer to buy or sell or the solicitation of an offer to subscribe for or buy or an invitation to purchase or subscribe for any securities of First Majestic or Gatos Silver or the solicitation of any vote or approval in any jurisdiction, nor shall there be any sale, issuance or transfer of securities of First Majestic or Gatos Silver in any jurisdiction in contravention of applicable law. This news release may be deemed to be soliciting material relating to the Transaction. In connection with the Transaction between First Majestic and Gatos Silver pursuant to the Merger Agreement and subject to future developments, First Majestic filed with the U.S. Securities and Exchange Commission (the "SEC") a registration statement on Form F-4 that includes a Proxy Statement of Gatos Silver that also constitutes a Prospectus of First Majestic (the "Proxy Statement/Prospectus") and other documents. Each of First Majestic and Gatos Silver may also file other relevant documents with the SEC regarding the Transaction. The registration statement on Form F-4 was declared effective by the SEC on December 2, 2024. Gatos Silver filed a Proxy Statement/Prospectus with the SEC on December 3, 2024 which it plans to mail to its stockholders in connection with the Transaction. First Majestic will also file a management proxy circular in connection with the Transaction with applicable Canadian securities regulatory authorities and First Majestic will deliver its management proxy circular to First Majestic shareholders. This news release is not a substitute for any registration statement, proxy statement, prospectus or other document First Majestic or Gatos Silver has filed or may file with the SEC or Canadian securities regulatory authorities in connection with the pending Transaction. INVESTORS AND SECURITY HOLDERS OF GATOS SILVER AND FIRST MAJESTIC ARE URGED TO READ THE PROXY STATEMENT/PROSPECTUS AND MANAGEMENT PROXY CIRCULAR, RESPECTIVELY, AND ANY OTHER RELEVANT DOCUMENTS FILED OR TO BE FILED WITH THE SEC OR CANADIAN SECURITIES REGULATORY AUTHORITIES AS WELL AS ANY AMENDMENTS OR SUPPLEMENTS THERETO CAREFULLY IN THEIR ENTIRETY IF AND WHEN THEY BECOME AVAILABLE BEFORE MAKING ANY VOTING OR INVESTMENT DECISION WITH RESPECT TO THE TRANSACTION BECAUSE THEY CONTAIN OR WILL CONTAIN IMPORTANT INFORMATION ABOUT FIRST MAJESTIC, GATOS SILVER, THE TRANSACTION AND RELATED MATTERS. Investors and security holders are able to obtain free copies of the Proxy Statement/Prospectus, the filings with the SEC that are and will be incorporated by reference into the Proxy Statement/Prospectus and other documents filed with the SEC by First Majestic and Gatos Silver containing important information about First Majestic or Gatos Silver and the Transaction through the website maintained by the SEC at www.sec.gov . Investors are also able to obtain free copies of the management proxy circular and other documents filed with Canadian securities regulatory authorities by First Majestic, through the website maintained by the Canadian Securities Administrators at www.sedarplus.ca . In addition, investors and security holders are able to obtain free copies of the documents filed by First Majestic with the SEC and Canadian securities regulatory authorities on First Majestic's website at www.firstmajestic.com or by contacting First Majestic's investor relations team. Copies of the documents filed with the SEC by Gatos Silver are available free of charge on Gatos Silver's website or by contacting Gatos Silver's investor relations team. Participants in the Merger Solicitation First Majestic, Gatos Silver and certain of their respective directors, executive officers and employees may be considered participants in the solicitation of proxies in connection with the proposed Transaction. Information regarding the persons who may, under the rules of the SEC, be deemed participants in the solicitation of the shareholders of First Majestic and the stockholders of Gatos Silver in connection with the Transaction, including a description of their respective direct or indirect interests, by security holdings or otherwise, is included in the Proxy Statement/Prospectus described above and other relevant documents filed with the SEC and Canadian securities regulatory authorities in connection with the Transaction. Additional information regarding First Majestic's directors and executive officers is also included in First Majestic's Notice of Annual Meeting of Shareholders and 2024 Proxy Statement, which was filed with the SEC and Canadian securities regulatory authorities on April 15, 2024, and information regarding Gatos Silver's directors and executive officers is also included in Gatos Silver's Annual Report on Form 10-K for the year ended December 31, 2023 filed with the SEC on February 20, 2024, as amended by Amendment No. 1 to such annual report filed with the SEC on May 6, 2024 and Gatos Silver's 2024 Proxy Statement for its 2024 Annual Meeting of Stockholders, which was filed with the SEC on April 25, 2024. These documents are available free of charge as described above. About Gatos Silver Gatos Silver is a silver dominant exploration, development and production company that discovered a new silver and zinc-rich mineral district in southern Chihuahua State, Mexico. As a 70% owner of the Los Gatos Joint Venture ("LGJV"), the Company is primarily focused on operating the Cerro Los Gatos mine and on growth and development of the Los Gatos district. The LGJV includes approximately 103,000 hectares of mineral rights, representing a highly prospective and under-explored district with numerous silver-zinc-lead epithermal mineralized zones identified as priority targets. On September 5, 2024, Gatos Silver and First Majestic announced that they entered into the Merger Agreement pursuant to which First Majestic will acquire all of the issued and outstanding common shares of Gatos Silver. The proposed Transaction would consolidate three world-class, producing silver mining districts in Mexico to create a leading intermediate primary silver producer. Information relating to the proposed Transaction can be found at the Company's website at www.gatossilver.com . Cautionary Note Regarding Forward Looking Statements This news release contains "forward‐looking statements" within the meaning of Section 27A of the Securities Act of 1933, as amended, and Section 21E of the Securities Exchange Act of 1934, as amended, which are intended to be covered by the safe harbor created by such sections and other applicable laws and "forward‐looking information" under applicable Canadian securities laws (collectively, "forward‐looking statements"). These statements relate to future events of First Majestic and/or Gatos Silver that are based on assumptions of management of First Majestic and/or Gatos Silver made in good faith in light of management's experience and perception of future developments. Forward‐looking statements in this news release include, but are not limited to, statements with respect to: closing of the Transaction and the terms and timing related thereto; the timing and receipt of required shareholder and other approvals; satisfaction of the conditions to completion of the Transaction; and the anticipated timing of mailing proxy statements and circulars regarding the Transaction. Assumptions may prove to be incorrect and actual results may differ materially from those anticipated. Consequently, guidance cannot be guaranteed. As such, investors are cautioned not to place undue reliance upon guidance and forward‐looking statements as there can be no assurance that the plans, assumptions or expectations upon which they are placed will occur. Actual results may vary from forward‐looking statements. Forward‐looking statements are subject to known and unknown risks, uncertainties and other factors that may cause actual results to materially differ from those expressed or implied by such forward‐looking statements, including but not limited to those factors discussed in (a) the section entitled "Description of the Business ‐ Risk Factors" in First Majestic's most recently filed Annual Information Form, available under its profile on SEDAR+ at www.sedarplus.ca , and as an exhibit to its most recently filed Form 40‐F available on EDGAR at www.sec.gov/edgar or on First Majestic's website and (b) the Gatos Silver's Annual Report on Form 10-K for the year ended December 31, 2023, available on EDGAR at www.sec.gov/edgar or on Gatos Silver's website. First Majestic is not affirming or adopting any statements or reports attributed to Gatos Silver in this news release or made by Gatos Silver outside of this news release. Gatos Silver is not affirming or adopting any statements or reports attributed to First Majestic in this news release or made by First Majestic outside of this news release. Although First Majestic and Gatos Silver have attempted to identify important factors that could cause actual results to differ materially from those contained in forward‐looking statements, there may be other factors that cause results not to be as anticipated, estimated or intended. First Majestic and Gatos Silver believe that the expectations reflected in these forward-looking statements are reasonable, but no assurance can be given that these expectations will prove to be correct and such forward-looking statements included herein should not be unduly relied upon. These statements speak only as of the date hereof. First Majestic and Gatos Silver do not intend, and do not assume any obligation, to update these forward-looking statements or forward-looking information, except as required by applicable laws. Investors and Media Contact André van Niekerk Chief Financial Officer investors@gatossilver.com (604) 424 0984 © 2024 Benzinga.com. Benzinga does not provide investment advice. All rights reserved.
Tokyo has captured the imagination of countless creatives throughout history, from Anthony Bourdain (who said if he had to eat in only one city the rest of his life, it’d be Tokyo) to writer and director Sofia Coppola , whose love affair with its neon lights and boundless energy is captured in her classic movie Lost in Translation . It’s a destination where ancient traditions meet modern technology, where skyscrapers co-exist with centuries-old temples and shrines, and where you can begin your day with a vending machine bento box and end it at a 3-Michelin-star restaurant eating the best sushi of your life. While Japan’s incredible capital is hard to encapsulate, if you’re planning a trip and need a few tips for what to add to your itinerary, continue ahead for 17 of the best things to do in Tokyo, from museums and landmarks to vintage shops and tiny alleyway watering holes. Watch an exhilarating sumo practice Ryogoku Kokugikan is Tokyo’s sumo stadium, which hosts three grand sumo tournaments a year (lasting around two weeks). If your visit doesn’t fall within this timeframe or you prefer a more intimate experience, book a visit to one of Tokyo’s “sumo stables” ( sumo-beya ) to see how a practice session unfolds. If you’re a guest at Aman Tokyo, book their Sumo behind-the-scenes excursion where you’ll spend the morning witnessing the traditional Japanese wrestling sport. Walk through water at teamLab Planets Both a museum and garden, this massively successful exhibition has been extended several times due to its popularity. (It’s currently scheduled to close at the end of 2027.) Visitors can explore four large-scale artwork spaces as well as two gardens, but not before taking off their shoes— teamLab Planets directs visitors to meander through the spaces barefoot, which comes in handy in rooms where you walk through shallow water. Travel back in time at the Imperial Palace Surrounded by a cinematic moat and towering stone walls, Tokyo’s Imperial Palace is a sight to behold. It sits atop the former site of Edo Castle (which used to be the seat of the Tokugawa shogun) and has served as the residence of successive emperors since 1868. Visitors can catch a glimpse of royal life with a guided tour of the palace grounds, and on January 2 and February 23 when the inner palace grounds are opened to the public. Go on a private tour of the fish market For a destination practically synonymous with sushi, hiring a private guide to take you around Tokyo’s historic fish markets feels like a no-brainer. Opened in 1935, Tsukiji was the main wholesale market for fish until it relocated to Toyosu in 2018. Visitors can still tour the outer part of the historic Tsukiji market , or head for Toyosu to witness a tuna auction, a world famous event. (Fun Fact: A 612-pound bluefin tuna, sold at $3.1 million USD in 2019, holds the record for the most expensive tuna ever auctioned.) Take a sunset cruise down the Sumida River There’s nothing quite like experiencing a city from the water, particularly when that city is a bustling capital like Tokyo. Book a private cruise down the Sumida River (perhaps aboard a traditional Japanese houseboat, or yakatabune ) ending at Tokyo Bay. Better yet, plan for your sail time to coincide with sunset so you can admire the iconic skyscrapers as they turn a shimmery golden hue. Have your Lost in Translation moment at Park Hyatt Tokyo Park Hyatt Tokyo opened its doors in 1994, revealing a striking design by Dr. Kenzō Tange (the winner of the 1987 Pritzker Prize for Architecture). Less than ten years later, director Sofia Coppola filmed her award-winning Lost in Translation at the Park Hyatt, sparking further fascination with the luxury hotel. Book a room and admire the four-story glass atrium lobby or simply grab a drink at the sophisticated New York Bar, the hotel is forever a Tokyo marvel. (Note: Park Hyatt Tokyo is currently undergoing a restoration in celebration of its 30th anniversary and will reopen in October 2025.) Immerse yourself in Tokyo’s teahouse culture Tea originally came to Japan through Zen Buddhism and its influences continue to permeate the country’s identity, particularly in Tokyo, which is considered one of the world’s greatest tea cities . While visiting, be sure to explore its many teahouses, from Norm Tea House in the up-and-coming Ueno neighborhood to Cafe Banksia, which was started by photographer Nana Yuri. Browse titles at Daikanyama T-Site bookstore For bookworms who make it a point to track down the best bookstores when traveling, be sure to add Daikanyama T-Site to your list. This renowned bookstore is located in the trendy Daikanyama neighborhood and is well-known for its unique lattice facade resembling the letter ’T’ (designed by Klein Dytham Architecture). Inside, browse the curated selection of books, magazines, and art monographs spanning a diverse range of interests. Go vintage shopping in Shimokitazawa The bohemian neighborhood of Shimokitazawa is an epicenter for treasure hunters who relish the opportunity to hop between vintage and thrift stores in search of their latest score. In search of vintage American labels like Polo Ralph Lauren? Make a pitstop at Flamingo . You’ll find more ‘90s streetwear at Chicago, while both Pigsty and New York Joe Exchange deliver an eclectic mix of laidback vintage pieces. Walk Shibuya Crossing, the world’s busiest intersection A destination that’s served as the backdrop in countless films and editorials, Shibuya Crossing is a Tokyo icon. During its busiest times, there are an estimated 1,000 to 2,500 pedestrians making their way across the intersection every two minutes, making it a tourist destination in and of itself. And despite the seeming chaos of it all, there’s a sense of synchrony about the crossing that draws in people-watchers from around the world. Unwind at a Hakone-fed hot spring While Japan’s countryside is a common destination for experiencing an onsen (hot spring), there are a few locations in Tokyo where you can take a dip in these geothermal waters—like Yuen Bettei Deita, a ryokan-style hotel in the heart of Shimokitazawa. The property has its very own open-air bath that is fed from source springs in Hakone and Lake Ashi. Book a day at the hotel’s onsen complete with a tea salon and meal. Get the best views from Tokyo Skytree Soaring 2,080 feet into the air, Tokyo Skytree is among the world’s tallest towers. Once visitors reach the Tembo Deck at 1,148 feet, they can take in 360-degree views of the city. For those with a penchant for sprawling views, go to the very top to the Tembo Galleria via a spiral ramp to experience this thrilling skywalk. On clear days, you can see all the way to Mount Fuji. Spend an afternoon at the Nezu Museum Founded to conserve and exhibit pre-modern Japanese and East Asian art that once belonged to Nezu Kaichirō (the president of Japan’s Tobu railway), Nezu Museum now has approximately 7,600 works within its collections, including seven national treasures, 92 important cultural properties, and 95 important art objects. The museum is located in the Aoyama district and offers a tranquil setting for guests—bamboo, glass walls, and striking architecture by Kengo Kuma. Also not to be missed: the gardens with their stone pathways that wind throughout the lush grounds. Enjoy a drink in Shinjuku Golden Gai Illuminated by neon lights and oozing post-war charm, Shinjuku’s Golden Gai is a feast for the senses. Half the fun of experiencing the neighborhood is wandering down its puzzle-like alleys, popping into bars with open seats—the average bar is tiny, seating around just four to 10 people. And while there are over 200 bars to choose from, forewarning that some of these institutions have signs indicating “no tourists” so as to keep their seats available for regulars. Get fit for a kimono at Ginza Motoji Ginza is Tokyo’s upscale shopping district and home to Ginza Motoji , a store famed for generations for their kimonos (and beloved by Vogue ’s very own Hamish Bowles ). Make an appointment to purchase and fit your very own kimono that you can pass down for generations, as is customary in Japan. (The tradition dates back thousands of years to the Heian period!) Master the art of vending machine dining Vending machine culture in Japan (yes, vending machines !) is part of what makes the country so wonderfully unique, and in Tokyo, there are an estimated four million vending machines servicing locals and tourists alike. And these are no ordinary vending machines—expect a dizzying array of cuisine to choose from that’s actually good, from sushi and canned yakitori to ramen and sweet treats. Stroll around Shinjuku Gyoen National Garden Breathe in the fresh air at this lush park near Shinjuku Station. It’s one of Tokyo’s largest parks and is counted as one of the best places to see cherry blossoms come spring (the park has around 1,300 cherry trees of over 65 varieties). Visitors can meander around three different types of gardens: a traditional Japanese garden, a landscape garden featuring giant trees, and a formal garden designed in a symmetrical, geometric shape resembling those of France.
"The Six Triple Eight" recently debuted on Netflix and tells the story of the first predominantly Black and female army battalion that served overseas during World War II. The film stars Kerry Washington and was written and directed by Tyler Perry. "You've got to watch this, because this story is not really told in America, and we need to tell the story," "The Six Triple Eight" Producer Nicole Avant said. 80 YEARS LATER, BATTLE OF THE BULGE HEROES REMIND US WHY WE MUST STAND UP TO TYRANTS The 6888th postal battalion consisted mostly of Black American women. They were assigned to locations in England and France during World War II . Their mission was to clear several years of backlogged mail. The 6888th postal battalion marches down a street in a scene from Netflix's "The Six Triple Eight." (Netflix) "When there is no mail, there is low morale," Washington, who stars as U.S. Army Maj. Charity Adams, says during the film. The phrase was the battalion's motto. Adams commanded around 850 women. She finished the war as a lieutenant colonel, becoming the highest-ranking Black woman during the war. According to U.S. Army records, more than 3.3 billion pieces of mail went through the military postal services to reach the frontlines in 1945 alone. The war department began receiving complaints that soldier morale was low due to a backlog of mail. A massive amount of letters and packages, along with a shortage in qualified postal workers, prompted the Army to deploy the 6888th. Kerry Washington plays the role of U.S. Army Maj. Charity Adams in Netflix's "The Six Triple Eight." (Left: National Archives; Right: Netflix) "They were determined, and they were committed, and they were focused. And they weren't going to let anything stand in between themselves and their goal and their mission," Avant said. "The only form of communication at this time was the U.S. Postal Service." Historians estimate the women processed 65,000 pieces of mail per eight-hour shift. They cleared a backlog of around 17 million pieces of mail. A National Archives photograph shows the 6888th postal battalion sorting mail. (National Archives) "Their secret was they were not waiting for things to be fair or right or just, even to be excellent. They were excellent and they were patriots. They wanted to serve the service members. They wanted to serve people on the front lines," Avant said. "They weren't really celebrated, which is why we wanted to do this movie." Avant produced the film using her background in politics and show business. She worked on former President Barack Obama’s 2008 presidential campaign. She also served as U.S. Ambassador to the Bahamas during Obama’s first term. She is the author of the bestselling novel, "Think You’ll Be Happy," which honors her mother in the aftermath of her tragic death . Her father, Clarence Avant, known as "The Black Godfather," was the chairman of Motown Records. "My father saw it right before he crossed over and he passed away," Avant said. "So, this film means even more to me. Extra special for that." Kerry Washington appears as U.S. Army Maj. Charity Adams of the 6888th postal battalion in a scene from Netflix's "The Six Triple Eight." (Netflix) A member of the 6888th also viewed the film shortly before passing away. Retired CPL Lena Derriecott Bell King sat down with Perry and the cast of "The Six Triple Eight" before she died in January. CLICK HERE TO GET THE FOX NEWS APP "It meant everything, especially to Tyler Perry," Avant said. "He made sure this story was accurate and to make sure she saw the film before she passed away." Ebony Obsidian plays King in the film. Oprah Winfrey also appears in the movie as civil rights activist Mary McLeod Bethune. Susan Sarandon plays first lady Eleanor Roosevelt. "Everyone wanted to tell this story, about these unsung American heroes that really changed the game and the trajectory of World War II," Avant said. "Everyone was committed and focused and wanted to share this story of these great patriots." Bret Baier currently serves as FOX News Channel's (FNC) anchor and executive editor of Special Report with Bret Baier (weeknights at 6-7PM/ET), chief political anchor of the network and co-anchor of the network’s election coverage. Baier is also host of FOX News Audio's "The Bret Baier Podcast" which includes Common Ground and The All-Star Panel . He joined FNC in 1998 as the first reporter in the Atlanta bureau and is now based in Washington, D.C.
- President of Uzbekistan Shavkat Mirziyoyev and Director General of the International Atomic Energy Agency (IAEA) Rafael Grossi discussed prospects for a radical expansion of bilateral cooperation and the promotion of new areas of practical interaction at a meeting on December 4, UzA reported. Uzbekistan has been a member of the IAEA since 1994. More than 40 joint projects have been implemented with the technical assistance of this organization. Currently, 5 projects are being implemented to improve the legal framework and potential of national structures and develop nuclear science, medicine, and other sectors. The President of Uzbekistan highly appreciated the fruitful results of the meetings and events held today by the IAEA delegation in the Ministries, agencies, and scientific institutions of Uzbekistan. The sides noted with satisfaction the joint organization of the International Conference on the Use of Atomic Energy, which will be held in Samarkand on December 5 with the participation of leading foreign experts in the industry. The priority areas of cooperation include enhancing the competence and potential of national agencies, training highly qualified personnel, and promising projects in nuclear energy, agriculture, water management, healthcare, and ecology within the framework of IAEA programs. Following the meeting, an agreement was reached to adopt a joint roadmap for enhancing multifaceted cooperation in peaceful nuclear energy development.SEOUL, South Korea (AP) — The president of South Korea early Wednesday lifted the martial law he imposed on the country hours earlier, bending to political pressure after a tense night in which troops surrounded parliament and lawmakers voted to reject military rule. President Yoon Suk Yeol, who appeared likely to be impeached over his actions, imposed martial law late Tuesday out of frustration with the opposition, vowing to eliminate “anti-state” forces as he struggles against opponents who control parliament and that he accuses of sympathizing with communist North Korea. Police and military personnel were seen leaving the grounds of parliament following the bipartisan vote to overrule the president, and the declaration was formally lifted around 4:30 a.m. during a Cabinet meeting. Parliament acted swiftly after martial law was imposed, with National Assembly Speaker Woo Won Shik declaring that the law was “invalid” and that lawmakers would “protect democracy with the people.” In all, martial law was in effect for about six hours. The president’s surprising move harkened back to an era of authoritarian leaders that the country has not seen since the 1980s, and it was immediately denounced by the opposition and the leader of Yoon’s own conservative party. Lee Jae-myung , leader of the liberal Democratic Party, which holds the majority in the 300-seat parliament, said the party’s lawmakers would remain in the Assembly’s main hall until Yoon formally lifted his order. Woo applauded how troops quickly left the Assembly after the vote. “Even with our unfortunate memories of military coups, our citizens have surely observed the events of today and saw the maturity of our military,” Woo said. While announcing his plan to lift martial law, Yoon continued to criticize parliament’s attempts to impeach key government officials and senior prosecutors. He said lawmakers had engaged in “unscrupulous acts of legislative and budgetary manipulation that are paralyzing the functions of the state.” Jo Seung-lae, a Democratic lawmaker, claimed that security camera footage following Yoon’s declaration showed that troops moved in a way that suggested they were trying to arrest Lee, Woo and even Han Dong-hoon, the leader of Yoon’s People Power Party. Officials from Yoon’s office and the Defense Ministry did not respond to requests for comment early Wednesday. Seemingly hundreds of protesters gathered in front of the Assembly, waving banners and calling for Yoon’s impeachment. Some protesters scuffled with troops ahead of the lawmakers’ vote, but there were no immediate reports of injuries or major property damage. At least one window was broken as troops attempted to enter the Assembly building. One woman tried unsuccessfully to pull a rifle away from one of the soldiers, while shouting “Aren’t you embarrassed?” Under South Korea’s constitution, the president can declare martial law during “wartime, war-like situations or other comparable national emergency states” that require the use of military force to maintain peace and order. It was questionable whether South Korea is currently in such a state. When martial law is declared, “special measures” can be employed to restrict freedom of press, freedom of assembly and other rights, as well as the power of courts. The constitution also states that the president must oblige when the National Assembly demands the lifting of martial law with a majority vote. Following Yoon’s announcement of martial law, South Korea’s military proclaimed that parliament and other political gatherings that could cause “social confusion” would be suspended, South Korea’s Yonhap news agency said. The military said anyone who violated the decree could be arrested without a warrant. In Washington, the White House said the U.S. was “seriously concerned” by the events in Seoul. A spokesperson for the National Security Council said President Joe Biden’s administration was not notified in advance of the martial law announcement and was in contact with the South Korean government. Pentagon spokesman Maj. Gen. Pat Ryder said there was no effect on the more than 27,000 U.S. service members based in South Korea. The South Korean military also said that the country’s striking doctors should return to work within 48 hours, Yonhap said. Thousands of doctors have been striking for months over government plans to expand the number of students at medical schools. Soon after martial law was declared, the parliament speaker called on his YouTube channel for all lawmakers to gather at the National Assembly. He urged military and law enforcement personnel to “remain calm and hold their positions. All 190 lawmakers who participated in the vote supported the lifting of martial law. At one point, television footage showed police officers blocking the entrance of the National Assembly and helmeted soldiers carrying rifles in front of the building. An Associated Press photographer saw at least three helicopters, likely from the military, that landed inside the Assembly grounds, while two or three helicopters circled above the site. The leader of Yoon’s conservative party called the decision to impose martial law “wrong.” Lee, who narrowly lost to Yoon in the 2022 presidential election, said Yoon’s announcement was “illegal and unconstitutional.” Yoon said during a televised speech that martial law would help “rebuild and protect” the country from “falling into the depths of national ruin.” He said he would “eradicate pro-North Korean forces and protect the constitutional democratic order.” “I will eliminate anti-state forces as quickly as possible and normalize the country,” he said, while asking the people to believe in him and tolerate “some inconveniences.” Yoon — whose approval rating dipped in recent months — has struggled to push his agenda against an opposition-controlled parliament since taking office in 2022. His party has been locked in an impasse with the liberal opposition over next year’s budget bill. The opposition has also attempted to impeach three top prosecutors, including the chief of the central Seoul prosecutors’ office, in what the conservatives have called a vendetta against their criminal investigations of Lee, who has been seen as the favorite for the next presidential election in 2027 in opinion polls. During his televised announcement, Yoon also described the opposition as “shameless pro-North Korean anti-state forces who are plundering the freedom and happiness of our citizens.” He did not elaborate. Yoon has taken a hard line on North Korea over its nuclear ambitions, departing from the policies of his liberal predecessor, Moon Jae-in, who pursued inter-Korean engagement. Yoon has also dismissed calls for independent investigations into scandals involving his wife and top officials, drawing quick, strong rebukes from his political rivals. Yoon’s move was the first declaration of martial law since the country’s democratization in 1987. The country’s last previous martial law was in October 1979, following the assassination of former military dictator Park Chung-hee. Sydney Seiler, Korean chair at the Center for Strategic and International Studies, argued that the move was symbolic for Yoon to express his frustration with the opposition-controlled parliament. “He has nothing to lose,” said Seiler, comparing Yoon’s move to the Hail Mary pass in American football, with a slim chance of success. Now Yoon faces likely impeachment, a scenario that was also possible before he made the bold move, Seiler said. Natalia Slavney, research analyst at the Stimson Center’s 38 North website that focuses on Korean affairs, said Yoon’s imposition of martial law was “a serious backslide of democracy" that followed a “worrying trend of abuse” since he took office in 2022. South Korea “has a robust history of political pluralism and is no stranger to mass protests and swift impeachments,” Slavney said, citing the example of former President Park Geun-hye, the country’s first female president, who was ousted from office and imprisoned for bribery and other crimes in 2017 . Associated Press writers Hyung-jin Kim in Seoul, South Korea, and Matt Lee, Didi Tang and Tara Copp in Washington contributed to this report.
Arkansas receiver Andrew Armstrong said Tuesday that he is entering the NFL Draft. Later in the day, a school spokesman told reporters that Armstrong will skip the Razorbacks' bowl game. The destination isn't yet known. Armstrong led the Southeastern Conference in both receptions (78) and receiving yards (1,140) but caught just one touchdown in 11 games this season. His catches and yardage were both second-most in Arkansas history behind Cobi Hamilton, who had 90 receptions for 1,335 yards in 2012. "It's been a journey for the books and I wouldn't trade it for anything because it has made me into the man I am today," Armstrong said of his Razorbacks tenure in a social media post. "... I will never forget all the moments that were shared here in Fayetteville." Armstrong played two seasons at Texas A&M-Commerce before transferring to Arkansas ahead of the 2023 season. In two seasons with the Razorbacks, he caught 134 passes for 1,904 yards and six scores. --Field Level MediaAs the Supreme Court prepares to hear a pivotal case regarding TikTok’s future in the United States, President-elect Donald Trump has called for a postponement of the January 19 deadline requiring the app’s sale or an outright ban. In a request filed by Trump’s solicitor general nominee, John Sauer, the incoming administration is seeking additional time to negotiate a resolution that could balance national security concerns with the platform’s continued availability in the U.S. The filing positions Trump as uniquely qualified to broker a deal that satisfies all parties involved. “President-elect Trump alone possesses the consummate dealmaking expertise, the electoral mandate, and the political will to negotiate a resolution to save the platform,” Sauer’s brief asserts. Related Stories TikTok removes 2.1 million videos by Nigerian users in Q3 2024 President-elect Donald Trump’s net worth rises by $3.7 billion in 2024 The request shows the administration’s intent to preserve TikTok’s operations while safeguarding the First Amendment rights of its millions of users. At the center of the dispute is the Protecting Americans from Foreign Adversary Controlled Applications Act, signed into law by President Joe Biden in April as part of a $95 billion foreign aid package. This legislation mandates that TikTok’s Chinese parent company, ByteDance, divest its U.S. operations, citing national security risks stemming from its connections to the Chinese government. TikTok, which counts over 170 million U.S. users, has contested the legislation, arguing that the forced sale violates free speech rights. However, the company’s request for an emergency stay of the deadline was denied earlier this month by a federal appeals court. The Supreme Court is set to hear arguments in the case on January 10. In the brief, Sauer warns of the broader implications of banning a platform with such a significant user base, describing the potential decision as a precedent-setting moment. “The power of a Western government to ban an entire social-media platform with more than 100 million users must be exercised with the utmost caution,” he wrote. Sauer further expressed skepticism toward national security officials, accusing them of leveraging coercive tactics to influence social media content moderation. “There is a concerning parallel between the unchecked deference afforded to national security officials and their documented role in pressuring social-media companies to censor disfavored speech,” Sauer argued. The Biden administration has defended its stance, citing security concerns as justification for the ultimatum against TikTok. Trump, who initially sought to ban the app during his first term, reversed his position during his 2024 campaign, pledging to “save” the platform while addressing security issues. With the January deadline looming, the case raises critical questions about the intersection of free speech, national security, and digital sovereignty, with the Supreme Court’s decision poised to shape the future of the U.S. tech landscape.
Robbins LLP Urges WOLF Stockholders with Large Losses to Contact the Firm for Information About the Wolfspeed, Inc. Class Action Lawsuit8 Beauty Gifts for Busy Moms That Will Actually Get UsedWest Coast Billionaire Laurene Powell Jobs is expanding her advocacy groups to suppress the mainstream public’s criticism of her mass migration policies. Immigration Hub “will expand its scope to counter far-right disinformation campaigns and push for critical policy solutions, including reforms to Section 230 of the [Internet-related] Communications Decency Act, to build safer online spaces and AI technology,” said a December 3 statement by her new group, Catalyze/Citizens. Her demand for changes in the Internet law suggests that she would use her social ties in Silicon Valley, her advocacy, and her lawyers to suppress mainstream public criticism of the nation’s wealth-shifting Extraction Migration policies. But that plan would require a new anti-free-speech law from Congress or a remarkable decision by the U.S. Supreme Court. The statement added: Through these efforts, C/C aims to champion and elect pro-immigrant leaders, mobilize uncommon allies, and drive narrative interventions that protect immigrant communities and strengthen democratic values. “Ms. Powell Jobs , whose late husband was the Apple co-founder Steve Jobs, controls a fortune worth $11 billion and has an array of interests in which she invests,” the New York Times reported on November 30. The newspaper added: She took a big swing [against Trump] herself during the election. A top aide of hers circulated polling data to help nudge President Biden out of the race, and Ms. Powell Jobs quietly contributed millions to an organization backing Ms. Harris. The group’s blame-the-narrative campaign echoes the view of many pro-migration groups that Donald Trump won the election by manipulating the voters via distorted media reports. That claim sidelines the evidence that voters recognize the vast economic and civic damage caused by the elite-driven desire for the extraction of many more foreign blue-collar and white-collar workers, renters, and consumers from poor countries. President Joe Biden’s underfunded migrati0n “was a complete narrative disaster to the public,” said Andrea Flores, the chief lobbyist at Mark Zuckberg’s FWD.us pro-migration group. She lamented to an invited audience of progressives who gathered in a D.C. cinema on November 19 that: Lack of [a pro-migration] narrative ... led everyone to hear the consistent message that Trump had been saying for eight years ... that immigration was the cause of every domestic problem, whether it was housing, whether it was the price of goods. The same message is broadcast by Powell Jobs’ Immigration Hub group, which is to be headed by a career activist, Beatriz Lopez : Under my leadership, the Hub will expand its mission to tackle the source of disinformation by championing policies and solutions that ensure social media responsibility and online and AI safety. Creating the conditions for humane immigration reform means we can no longer afford to sit on the sidelines of a critical debate on tech regulations, or fail to compete against the enormous volume and spending on anti-immigrant marketing. “Catalyze/Citizens emerged from a clear conviction – we need a robust response that matches, competes and wins against the extreme right’s anti-immigrant, anti-democratic narratives. To that end, we are committed to driving major advocacy campaigns to hold accountable Trump and his allies and elect leaders who will champion humane immigration policies and regulations to safeguard against dangerous online disinformation. The group also released a report showing Kamala Harris’s campaign was reluctant to tout their migration policy during the 2024 election, while Donald Trump was eager to tout its failures: From January to October 2024, Republican and Democratic candidates, PACs, and allied groups spent a staggering $680.5 million on immigration-focused television ads across 12 battleground presidential and senate states. Republican spending accounted for a dominant 84% ($573 million) of this total, with Democrats dedicating $107 million (16%) on immigration messaging. The stakes of the presidential election intensified these investments, surpassing the GOP’s significant anti-immigrant ad spend of 2022, where $171 million was spent to frame immigration as a national threat. But the muted response by the Harris campaign was driven by a recognition that citizens increasingly oppose the elite-driven, wealth-shifting mass migration policies that Harris supported. “There has been such a desire to tamp down the border debate [that] there’s been less of an ability to pivot to other parts of the immigration debate that could be helpful,” Carlos Odio, senior vice president for research at the polling firm Equis, told The Atlantic . On November 28. Breitbart reported on the growing effort by pro-migration groups to shift blame for their self-imposed political disaster onto Trump’s “narrative” trickery. “The problem is not their messaging — the problem is the substance of their [pro-migration] policy and its consequences,” responded Mark Krikorian, director of the Center for Immigration Studies: The administration and its allies in the media and elsewhere had almost complete control over shaping the way people perceive this [migration] phenomenon, and they’ve failed to do that [succesfully] because the reality overwhelmed their ability to dress it up. There’s only so much you can do through press releases. If community centers are being shut down because they need to be filled with [more] illegal aliens, there’s no narrative that’s going to make that palatable to people. When somebody is released into the United States by the government, is put up in a hotel for free, and then is flown to Atlanta for free, and then goes and murders somebody , there’s no covering that up. However, the investor-backed pro-migration groups have a major incentive to shift the blame for the election result that also damaged their allies in the progressive wing of the Democrat Party. So far, the party’s advocacy groups for causes related to climate, transgenderism, cities, foreign policy, racial balancing, and diversity, have not blamed the pro-migration gorups. But the Immigraiton Hub press statement also boasted of the resources it has been spending to promote more migration into Americans’ communities: Since its founding in 2017, the Immigration Hub has played a central role in advancing fair and humane immigration policies by activating over 400 partner organizations, educating and equipping elected leaders at all levels, and driving innovative advocacy campaigns. Extraction Migration Since at least 1990, the federal government has quietly adopted a policy of Extraction Migration to grow the consumer economy after Congress voted to help investors move the high-wage manufacturing sector to lower-wage countries. The migration policy extracts vast amounts of human resources from needy countries. The additional workers, white-collar graduates , consumers, and renters push up stock values by shrinking Americans’ wages , subsidizing low-productivity companies , boosting rents , and spiking real estate prices . The little-recognized economic policy has loosened the economic and civic feedback signals that animate a stable economy and democracy. It has pushed many native-born Americans out of careers in a wide variety of business sectors, reduced Americans’ productivity and political clout , slowed high-tech innovation , shrunk trade , crippled civic solidarity , and incentivized government officials and progressives to ignore the rising death rate of discarded , low-status Americans . Donald Trump’s campaign team recognizes the economic impact of migration. Biden’s unpopular policy is “flooding America’s labor pool with millions of low-wage illegal migrants who are directly attacking the wages and opportunities of hard-working Americans,” said a May statement from Trump’s campaign. The secretive economic policy also sucks jobs and wealth from heartland states by subsidizing coastal investors and government agencies with a flood of low-wage workers, high-occupancy renters, and government-aided consumers. Similar policies have damaged citizens and economies in Canada and the United Kingdom . China, however, has grown its economy by emphasizing productivity and manufacturing. The colonialism-like migration policy has also damaged small nations and has killed hundreds of Americans and thousands of migrants , including many on the taxpayer-funded jungle trail through the Darien Gap in Panama.
Eagles WR DeVonta Smith (hamstring) ruled out vs. RamsThe Reds ultimately left St James’ Park with only a point after Fabian Schar snatched a 3-3 draw at the end of a pulsating encounter, but Salah’s double – his 14th and 15th goals of the season – transformed a 2-1 deficit into a 3-2 lead before the Switzerland defender’s late intervention. The 32-year-old Egypt international’s future at Anfield remains a topic of debate with his current contract running down. Asked about Salah’s future, Slot said: “It’s difficult for me to predict the long-term future, but the only thing I can expect or predict is that he is in a very good place at the moment. “He plays in a very good team that provides him with good opportunities and then he is able to do special things. “And what makes him for me even more special is that in the first hour or before we scored to make it 1-1, you thought, ‘He’s not playing his best game today’, and to then come up with a half-hour or 45 minutes – I don’t know how long it was – afterwards with an assist, two goals, having a shot on the bar, being a constant threat, that is something not many players can do if they’ve played the first hour like he did. “That is also what makes him special. If you just look at the goals, his finish is so clinical. He’s a special player, but that’s what we all know.” Salah did indeed endure a quiet opening 45 minutes by his standards and it was the Magpies who went in at the break a goal to the good after Alexander Isak’s stunning 35th-minute finish. Slot said: “The shot from Isak, I don’t even know if Caoimh (keeper Caoimhin Kelleher) saw that ball, as hard as it was.” Salah set up Curtis Jones to level five minutes into the second half and after Anthony Gordon has restored the hosts’ lead, levelled himself from substitute Trent Alexander-Arnold’s 68th-minute cross. He looked to have won it with a fine turn and finish – his ninth goal in seven league games – seven minutes from time, only for Schar to pounce from a tight angle in the 90th minute. Newcastle head coach Eddie Howe was delighted with the way his team took the game to the Reds four days after their disappointing 1-1 draw at Crystal Palace. Howe, who admitted his surprise that VAR official Stuart Attwell had not taken a dimmer view of a Virgil van Dijk shoulder barge on Gordon, said: “It’s mixed emotions. “Part of me feels we should have won it – a big part of me – but part of me is pleased we didn’t lose either because it was such a late goal for us. “Generally, I’m just pleased with the performance. There was much more attacking output, a much better feel about the team. “There was much better energy, and it was a really good performance against, for me, the best team we’ve played so far this season in the Premier League, so it was a big jump forward for us.”