The U.S. State Department says it has “taken steps to secure the U.S. embassy” in Syria following the collapse of the Assad government. This comes after the toppling of more than 50 years of a dictatorship there, showing an uncertain way forward for any new government. "The fall of the regime is a fundamental act of justice," President Joe Biden said Sunday , but warned that the significant change will also mark a period of uncertainty for Syria and the region. "As we all turn to the question of what comes next, the United States will work with our partners and the stakeholders in Syria to help them seize an opportunity to manage the risks," President Biden said. The Biden administration plans to lend its support to establishing a transitional government in Syria. The White House is in close communication with stakeholders in the region, including Jordan's King Abdullah. More conversations with leaders are expected in the days ahead. RELATED STORY | Military command of Syria's opposition says Damascus is 'free' of Bashar Assad's rule Other countries and groups have a shared interest in continued stability in Syria, but officials also acknowledged the power vacuum carries risks. White House officials told Scripps News the administration is focused on preventing the ISIS terror group from taking advantage of the situation. "One of the things that we're going to work hard to avoid is ISIS being able to exploit this situation and somehow try to revitalize," White House National Security Communications Advisor John Kirby said in an interview. "That is a message that we are sending to all the opposition groups through various means that this is not the opportunity — should not be the time — for a closer relationship, or any relationship, quite frankly, with Isis." "What we are backing is the Syrian people. And we want to make sure that again, through our interlocutors and through the United Nations, we're doing what we can to see legitimate governance there." The conflict in Syria has spanned multiple administrations and is often considered a proxy for the goals of other international actors, including Russia. Officials pointed in part to President Biden's support of Israel and Ukraine as factors that weakened Iran and Russia's ability to support Assad — and one senior administrator official explained that Assad's departure "changed the equation" in the Middle East. But Republican President-elect Donald Trump has indicated the U.S. relationship with Syria may change when he takes office. "Syria is a mess, but is not our friend," Trump wrote on social media over the weekend. "The United States should have nothing to do with it. This is not our fight." Kirby told Scripps News that for the remaining time the Biden Administration has to set U.S. foreign policy, it would continue its mission to suppress ISIS and support legitimate government in Syria.
WASHINGTON (AP) — President-elect Donald Trump’s pick for intelligence chief, Tulsi Gabbard, faced fresh scrutiny Monday on Capitol Hill about her proximity to Russian-ally Syria amid the sudden collapse of that country’s hardline Assad rule. Gabbard ignored shouted questions about her 2017 visit to war-torn Syria as she ducked into one of several private meetings with senators who are being asked to confirm Trump’s unusual nominees . But the Democrat-turned-Republican Army National Reserve lieutenant colonel delivered a statement in which she reiterated her support for Trump’s America First approach to national security and a more limited U.S. military footprint overseas. “I want to address the issue that’s in the headlines right now: I stand in full support and wholeheartedly agree with the statements that President Trump has made over these last few days with regards to the developments in Syria,” Gabbard said exiting a Senate meeting. The incoming president’s Cabinet and top administrative choices are dividing his Republican allies and drawing concern , if not full opposition, from Democrats and others. Not just Gabbard, but other Trump nominees including Pentagon pick Pete Hegseth, were back at the Capitol ahead of what is expected to be volatile confirmation hearings next year. RELATED COVERAGE In promising to shake up Washington, Trump is in a class of his own Sen. Joni Ernst wants to hear from Hegseth on sex assault in the military and women in combat Military leaders are rattled by a list of ‘woke’ officers that a group urges Hegseth to fire The incoming president is working to put his team in place for an ambitious agenda of mass immigrant deportations, firing federal workers and rollbacks of U.S. support for Ukraine and NATO allies. “We’re going to sit down and visit, that’s what this is all about,” said Sen. Mike Rounds, R-S.D., as he welcomed Gabbard into his office. The president-elect announced other appointments Monday, including his lawyer Harmeet Dhillon for assistant attorney general for civil rights at the Justice Department and Mark Paoletta as the returning general counsel of the Office of Management and Budget. Meanwhile, Defense Secretary pick Hegseth appeared to be picking up support from once-skeptical senators, the former Army National Guard major denying sexual misconduct allegations and pledging not to drink alcohol if he is confirmed. The president-elect’s choice to lead the FBI, Kash Patel , who has written extensively about locking up Trump’s foes and proposed dismantling the Federal Bureau of Investigation, launched his first visits with senators Monday. “I expect our Republican Senate is going to confirm all of President Trump’s nominees,” said Sen. Tom Cotton, R-Ark., on social media. Despite widespread concern about the nominees’ qualifications and demeanors for the jobs that are among the highest positions in the U.S. government, Trump’s team is portraying the criticism against them as nothing more than political smears and innuendo. Showing that concern, nearly 100 former senior U.S. diplomats and intelligence and national security officials have urged Senate leaders to schedule closed-door hearings to allow for a full review of the government’s files on Gabbard. Trump’s allies have described the criticisms of Hegseth in particular as similar to those lodged against Brett Kavanaugh, the former president’s Supreme Court nominee who denied a sexual assault allegation and went on to be confirmed during Trump’s first term in office. Said Sen. Lindsey Graham, R-S.C., about Hegseth: “Anonymous accusations are trying to destroy reputations again. We saw this with Kavanaugh. I won’t stand for it.” One widely watched Republican, Sen. Joni Ernst of Iowa, herself a former Army National Guard lieutenant colonel and sexual assault survivor who had been criticized by Trump allies for her cool reception to Hegseth, appeared more open to him after their follow-up meeting Monday. “I appreciate Pete Hegseth’s responsiveness and respect for the process,” Ernst said in a statement. Ernst said that following “encouraging conversations,” he had committed to selecting a senior official who will “prioritize and strengthen my work to prevent sexual assault within the ranks. As I support Pete through this process, I look forward to a fair hearing based on truth, not anonymous sources.” Ernst also had praise for Patel — “He shares my passion for shaking up federal agencies” — and for Gabbard. Once a rising Democratic star, Gabbard, who represented Hawaii in Congress, arrived a decade ago in Washington, her surfboard in tow, a new generation of potential leaders. She ran unsuccessfully for president in 2020. But Gabbard abruptly left the party and briefly became an independent before joining with Trump’s 2024 campaign as one of his enthusiasts, in large part over his disdain for U.S. involvement overseas and opposition to helping Ukraine battle Russia. Her visit to Syria to meet with then-President Bashar Assad around the time of Trump’s first inauguration during the country’s bloody civil war stunned her former colleagues and the Washington national security establishment. The U.S. had severed diplomatic relations with Syria. Her visit was seen by some as legitimizing a brutal leader who was accused of war crimes. Gabbard has defended the trip, saying it’s important to open dialogue, but critics hear in her commentary echoes of Russia-fueled talking points. Assad fled to Moscow over the weekend after Islamist rebels overtook Syria in a surprise attack, ending his family’s five decades of rule. She said her own views have been shaped by “my multiple deployments and seeing firsthand the cost of war and the threat of Islamist terrorism.” Gabbard said, “It’s one of the many reasons why I appreciate President Trump’s leadership and his election, where he is fully committed, as he has said over and over, to bring about an end to wars.” Last week, the nearly 100 former officials, who served in both Democratic and Republican administrations, said in the letter to Senate leaders they were “alarmed” by the choice of Gabbard to oversee all 18 U.S. intelligence agencies. They said her past actions “call into question her ability to deliver unbiased intelligence briefings to the President, Congress, and to the entire national security apparatus.” The Office of the Director of National Intelligence was created after the Sept. 11, 2001, attacks to coordinate the nation’s intelligence agencies and act as the president’s main intelligence adviser. ___ Associated Press writer Stephen Groves contributed to this report.Tulsi Gabbard, Trump's pick for intel chief, faces questions on Capitol Hill amid Syria falloutTulsi Gabbard, Trump’s pick for intel chief, faces questions on Capitol Hill amid Syria fallout
Rupert Murdoch's attempt to change his family's trust over Fox News media empire control rejectedESL Tutoring Services Enhances English Learning Opportunities in Melbourne 12-20-2024 12:20 AM CET | Associations & Organizations Press release from: ABNewswire ESL Tutoring Services is a premier provider of English language education, dedicated to helping students achieve their linguistic goals. Offering tailored programs, including English tutoring in Melbourne and specialised IELTS preparation, the organisation is committed to fostering a supportive and engaging learning environment. With a team of highly qualified tutors, ESL Tutoring Services continues to set the benchmark for excellence in language education. ESL Tutoring Services is transforming the landscape of English language education with its comprehensive and tailored tutoring solutions. Renowned for its commitment to quality education, the organisation offers a diverse range of services, including specialised programs for individuals preparing for IELTS examinations and those seeking to improve their proficiency in English. With an ever-growing demand for skilled English tutor Melbourne [ https://www.esltutoringservices.com/english-tutoring-melbourne/ ], ESL Tutoring Services has positioned itself as a trusted name in the industry. The organisation's programs cater to learners of all levels, from beginners aiming to build foundational skills to advanced students preparing for academic or professional excellence. Customised English Tutoring in Melbourne The cornerstone of ESL Tutoring Services' approach lies in its personalised teaching methodologies. Programs are carefully designed to address the unique learning needs of each student, ensuring that goals are met efficiently and effectively. By offering access to experienced English language tutor Melbourne [ https://www.esltutoringservices.com/english-tutoring-melbourne/ ], the organisation ensures students receive guidance that aligns with their aspirations, be it improving conversational fluency or mastering complex grammar structures. Video: https://www.youtube.com/embed/V2zSCaPYj80 Specialised IELTS Courses in Melbourne Recognising the importance of IELTS for academic and professional opportunities, ESL Tutoring Services offers dedicated programs to help students achieve their desired scores. The IELTS course in Melbourne [ https://www.esltutoringservices.com/ielts-tutoring-melbourne/ ] focuses on all test components: listening, reading, writing, and speaking. Delivered by expert tutors, these courses equip students with strategies to excel in the test while enhancing their overall command of the English language. Commitment to Excellence in Education ESL Tutoring Services is guided by a mission to deliver exceptional learning experiences. Tutors are selected for their expertise and dedication, ensuring that students benefit from high-quality instruction. The organisation continuously updates its teaching practices to incorporate the latest methodologies and educational technologies, further solidifying its reputation for excellence. Location: https://www.google.com/maps/embed?pb=!1m18!1m12!1m3!1d3150.8112591784993!2d144.9765828!3d-37.841304199999996!2m3!1f0!2f0!3f0!3m2!1i1024!2i768!4f13.1!3m3!1m2!1s0x6ad66c25ea49648d%3A0xa5b2f9b0dd81bb!2sESL%20Tutoring%20Services!5e0!3m2!1sen!2sin!4v1734620797347!5m2!1sen!2sin Meeting the Growing Demand for English Proficiency Melbourne is home to a vibrant and multicultural population, making English language skills essential for personal and professional success. ESL Tutoring Services addresses this need by offering accessible and flexible learning options. With a focus on fostering confidence and competence in English, the organisation empowers individuals to achieve their goals in both local and global contexts. Flexible Learning Formats Understanding the varied needs of learners, ESL Tutoring Services provides options for in-person and online tutoring. This flexibility ensures that students can access quality education regardless of their location or schedule. Both formats maintain the high standards that have become synonymous with the organisation's name. Contact Information ESL Tutoring Services Address: 470 St Kilda Rd, Melbourne VIC 3004, Australia Phone: +61 1300 137 186 Media Contact Company Name: ESL Tutoring Services Contact Person: Kasia Email:Send Email [ https://www.abnewswire.com/email_contact_us.php?pr=esl-tutoring-services-enhances-english-learning-opportunities-in-melbourne ] Phone: +61 1300 137 186 Address:470 St Kilda Rd City: Melbourne State: Victoria 3004 Country: Australia Website: https://www.esltutoringservices.com/ This release was published on openPR.
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A world-renowned Haida artist and avid supporter of the victims of war in Ukraine, is pitching his talents to a Victoria non-profit that provides life-changing prosthetics. Michael Nicoll Yahgulanaas is the only living Indigenous artist whose work is in the permanent collection of the Modern and Contemporary Art Department at New York’s Metropolitan Museum of Art. His works are also in the collections of the British Museum, Denver Art Museum, Peabody Essex Museum, Seattle Art Museum, Glenbow Museum in Calgary, Vancouver Art Gallery and Museum of Anthropology at UBC. Originally scheduled to have an art show at the TSEKH Art Gallery in Kyiv, Ukraine in the fall of 2021, Nicoll Yahgulanaas is instead using his art to raise funds and awareness for the war-torn country. One of the works that would have been displayed is called Kyiv Child, created after visiting Ukraine in 2019. “I made many friends on that trip, and now they are huddling in basements, holding their children close. They worry about food, water, and Putin's indiscriminate bombing of civilians,” Nicoll Yahgulanaas said in a statement. Yahgulanaas has raised $75,000 so far for Ukraine aid through Unicef and MSF, and the latest campaign targets $25,000 for the Victoria Hand Project. From a small lab at the University of Victoria, The Victoria Hand Project harnesses 3D printing technology to create life-altering prosthetics. The charity strives to empower individuals worldwide, particularly where accessing prosthetics is challenging. By offering affordable and sustainable solutions, they restore independence, hope, and dignity to those who have lost mobility due to limb loss. CEO Michael Peirone is grateful that the B.C. artist opted to share his talents with the Saanich-based project. Malaspina Printmakers in Vancouver is covering the costs to create the high-quality prints of Yahgulanaas’s work available for $700 . Other donors and supporters mean the funds are 100 per cent proceeds. Each print sale, $700, would essentially cover the costs associated with a prosthetic in Ukraine, Peirone told the Saanich News. “Unfortunately from what we’ve heard from partners on the ground working in Ukraine there is such a need for prosthetic care and the resources aren’t available,” he said. “The waitlists are growing, with people who have been waiting six months to a year after losing an arm defending their country. “Even if the war ended right this moment – and we wish it would – there’s still a great need for prosthetic care.” Three Victoria Hand Project team members travelled to Ukraine in June 2023 to train locals and set up two clinics for the organization’s usual in-country solution. “That helps with the long-term sustainability and decreases wait times. Also, we found it really fosters a sense of pride in the community,” Peirone said. The non-profit has made several in-person trips there, creating fast and affordable prosthetic limb production. The organization has already provided more than 110 prosthetics for Ukrainians. Get prints online at . It's one campaign among several underway at the Victoria Hand Project. A Giving Tuesday event (internationally recognized as Dec. 3) aims to raise $50,000 focused on providing prosthetic arms in Ukraine. An evening of Impact features a silent auction, compelling personal stories and food and beverages. Learn more about the initiative, purchase tickets or donate online at .NEW ORLEANS (AP) — New Orleans tight end Taysom Hill is likely to miss the rest of the season after injuring his knee in the Saints' loss to the Los Angeles Rams. “It looks like an ACL tear,” interim coach Darren Rizzi said Monday. “He’ll probably get a second opinion, but it looks like it will be season-ending.” Hill, who is listed at tight end but plays a variety of roles, was carted off the field after taking a hard hit to his left knee while converting a fourth down on a direct snap in the Saints’ 21-14 loss Sunday to the Rams. The injury came one game after he'd posted a career-best 138 yards rushing and scored three touchdowns in a victory over Cleveland. He also has lined up at quarterback and running back, as well as playing special teams. “It means everybody else has to step up,” Rizzi said. “He fills so many roles, so there are going to be a lot of different guys that have to be a part of the solution there. It’s hard to sit here and tell you we are going to replace Taysom. You can’t. He’s a phenomenal person, player, leader and captain. It’s a big loss." Hill is the third key offensive player the Saints have lost. He joins leading wide receivers Chris Olave, who suffered a concussion in Week 9 and has not played since, and Rashid Shaheed, who is out for the year after tearing a meniscus in Week 7. Rizzi said guard Nick Saldiveri also might miss the remaining five games after injuring his left knee in the fourth quarter one series before Hill. Without Hill, though, the Saints’ quest to get back in the NFC South race became even tougher. At 4-8, they trail Atlanta and Tampa Bay by two games. Hill has 99 catches, 437 carries, 302 passes, 44 touchdowns, 19 tackles and one blocked kick in seven years with the Saints. “I don’t know if I can compare Taysom to anybody else that I’ve ever coached,” Rizzi said. “There’s not a guy that comes to mind that has been able to do all the different things he’s been able to do just in one game, forget about his career." Alvin Kamara had his third 100-yard rushing game of the year and is 106 yards away from the first 1,000-yard season of his eight-year career. He needs only 39 more yards to set a career high. His 206 carries are the third most in his career. Los Angeles averaged 5.4 yards per carry, finishing with 156 yards. Rams running back Kyren Williams said they knew at halftime they would win if they stuck to the ground game, and he carried seven times on the opening series of the third quarter as they took the lead. The Saints have allowed 5.1 yards per carry for the season — tied for last with the New York Giants. Signed in late October after Shaheed’s season-ending surgery, Marquez Valdes-Scantling has become Derek Carr’s go-to receiver for big plays. His 28-yard touchdown catch in the fourth quarter was the Saints’ longest gain of the day and his fourth score in the past three games. Tight end Foster Moreau, a reliable performer all year, could not handle Rams outside linebacker Jared Verse on the Saints’ final offensive snap, allowing him to hit Carr as he released a pass on fourth-and-3 from the Los Angeles 9 with New Orleans trailing by 7. Although the news was bad for Hill and Saldiveri, Rizzi said he expected starting center Erik McCoy to play Sunday against the Giants. McCoy was scratched against the Rams after aggravating a groin injury two weeks earlier versus Cleveland in his first game back since missing seven in a row. Rizzi said oft-injured running back Kendre Miller, who has played in two games this year, might return from a hamstring injury Sunday. 2 — The number of sacks for the Saints, not enough to keep Rams quarterback Matthew Stafford from finding his rhythm in the second half. In the Rams’ last five losses, he has been sacked 20 times. In their last five wins, he has been sacked three times. With their NFC South hopes on life support, the Saints travel to face the reeling Giants, who have lost seven in a row. AP NFL: https://apnews.com/hub/nfl
BISMARCK, N.D. (AP) — North Dakota regulators approved permits Thursday for underground storage of carbon dioxide delivered through a massive pipeline proposed for the Midwest, marking another victory for a project that has drawn fierce opposition from landowners. The governor-led Industrial Commission voted unanimously to approve permits for Summit Carbon Solutions’ three proposed storage sites in central North Dakota. Summit says construction of the project would begin in 2026 with operations beginning in 2027, but it’s expected that resistant landowners will file lawsuits seeking to block the storage plans. “With these permits, we’re one step closer to providing vital infrastructure that benefits farmers, ethanol producers, and communities across the Midwest," Summit Executive VP Wade Boeshans said in a statement. Summit’s proposed 2,500-mile (4,023-kilometer), $8 billion pipeline would transport planet-warming CO2 emissions from 57 ethanol plants in North Dakota, South Dakota, Iowa, Minnesota and Nebraska for underground storage. Carbon dioxide would move through the pipeline in a pressurized form to be injected deep underground into a rock formation. The company has permits for its route in North Dakota and Iowa but can’t yet begin construction. Also on Thursday, Minnesota regulators approved a permit for a 28-mile (45-kilometer) leg of the project in western Minnesota. Summit also recently applied in South Dakota, where regulators denied the company’s previous application last year. Last month, the company gained approval for its North Dakota route , and Iowa regulators also have given conditional approval. Summit faces several lawsuits related to the project, including a North Dakota Supreme Court appeal over a property rights law related to the underground storage plan. Further court challenges are likely. North Dakota Republican Gov. Doug Burgum, who chairs the Industrial Commission, is President-elect Donald Trump's choice for Interior Secretary and to lead a new National Energy Council. Burgum has frequently touted North Dakota's underground carbon dioxide storage as a “geologic jackpot.” In 2021, he set a goal for the No. 3 oil-producing state to be carbon-neutral by 2030. His term ends Saturday. Summit's storage facilities would hold an estimated maximum of 352 million metric tons of CO2 over 20 years. The pipeline would carry up to 18 million metric tons of CO2 per year to be injected about 1 mile (1.6 kilometers) underground, according to an application fact sheet. Jessie Stolark, who leads a group that supports the project and includes Summit, said the oil industry has long used similar technology. “We know that this can be done safely in a manner that is protective of human health and underground sources of drinking water,” said Stolark, executive director of the Carbon Capture Coalition. Summit's project has drawn the ire of landowners around the region. They oppose the potential taking of their property for the pipeline and fear a pipeline rupture releasing a cloud of heavy, hazardous gas over the land. A North Dakota landowners group is challenging a property rights law related to the underground storage, and attorney Derrick Braaten said they likely would challenge the granting of permits. “The landowners that I'm working with aren't necessarily opposed to carbon sequestration itself,” Braaten said. “They're opposed to the idea that a private company can come in and use their property without having to negotiate with them or pay them just compensation for taking their private property and using it.” Carbon capture projects such as Summit's are eligible for lucrative federal tax credits intended to encourage cleaner-burning ethanol and potentially result in corn-based ethanol being refined into jet fuel. Some opponents argue the amount of greenhouse gases sequestered through the process would make little difference and could lead farmers to grow more corn despite environmental concerns about the crop. In Minnesota, regulators granted a route permit that would connect an ethanol plant in Fergus Falls to Summit’s broader network. They attached several conditions, including requirements that Summit first begin construction in North Dakota. An administrative law judge who conducted hearings concluded in November that the environmental impacts from the Minnesota segment would be minimal and noted that Summit has secured agreements from landowners along most of the recommended route. Environmental groups that oppose the project disputed the judge’s finding that the project would have a net benefit for the environment. Iowa regulators required Summit to obtain approvals for routes in the Dakotas and underground storage in North Dakota before it can begin construction in Iowa. The Iowa Utilities Commission's approval sparked lawsuits related to the project. In Nebraska, where there is no state regulatory process for CO2 pipelines, Summit is working with individual counties to advance its project. At least one county has denied a permit. ___ Karnowski reported from Minneapolis. Jack Dura And Steve Karnowski, The Associated Press
Your child’s ski boots can impact their overall skiing experience and may even undermine their love for the sport if they find the boots awkward fitting and uncomfortable. In addition to comfort, the ability to retain warmth and be breathable are important qualities your kid’s ski boot should have. If your child is ready to hit the slopes and you’re looking for the ideal pair of boots, ensure you choose one that provides comfort and inspires confidence, such as our top pick, Fischer Junior/Kids RC4 60 Thermoshape Alpine On/Off-Piste Ski Boots . There are several types of ski boots for kids, such as rear-entry and front-entry designs as well as performance and adjustable boot options. Rear-entry boots allow your child to slip in their feet from the back, while front entry includes a tongue that opens forward and allows the child to slide in their foot from the top. Another type is performance boots, which are made for older kids who want a better performance from their footwear. The adjustable ski boot is another option, and it is a great choice for kids who grow out of their footwear quickly. It’s easy to think your child’s boots are too small because they feel stiff and tight, but some boots are designed to be stiff. To avoid making a mistake with the sizing, take your child with you to the ski shop to get them sized. You can speak to a ski technician to learn more about the fit process. Let your child try on the boot with the liner while wearing socks. If the liner is tight, then the boots may be too small. If your child is just starting with skiing and is only confident skiing on green runs, they are considered a beginner. Their category is intermediate if they can ski confidently on the blue square terrains. However, they are advanced if they can ski anything on the mountain. Kids’ ski boots usually come with ratings depending on their experience level. The boots with a lower flex rating are designed for beginners and are comfortable to wear but deliver less on performance. Those with a higher rating are usually less comfortable but provide better performance. Some children may end up abandoning skiing because they’d rather be doing something else other than constantly taking their boots on and off. Front-entry and rear-entry ski boots are easy to wear, so choose either of these options for a fussy child. Your child’s boots should grip the floor properly to minimize their chance of falling when skiing. This feature is known as slip resistance and is often determined by the type of material used to fabricate the outsole of the boots. Generally, slip-resistant soles are textured and made of rubber. Waterproof ski boots are made of nonporous materials and can keep your child’s feet dry even when submerged in water. There are water-resistant boots designed to repel water, but these won’t prevent your child’s feet from getting wet in heavy rain or snow. Most kids’ ski boots cost $25-$40. Some expensive options are made with high-quality waterproof material, costing up to $60. A. Ski boots have a different sizing for shoes, called Mondo sizing, which measures the inside of the foot. To get the right size for your child, use a tape measure to measure the length of their feet, then check the size chart to get the correct size. A. If your child is just starting with skiing, choose a pair of boots that can easily flex, like front-entry ski boots. Fischer Junior/Kids RC4 60 Thermoshape Alpine On/Off-Piste Ski Boots What you need to know: These ski boots are an excellent choice for beginner skiers thanks to their soft flex design and thermoformable technology. What you’ll love: These Soma-Tec boots are designed to enable maximum control and prevent the ankle and knee joints from twisting when skiing. They also include a micro-adjustable buckle system for quick and easy adjustment. They feature a thermoformable boot liner designed to give an adapted fit. What you should consider: Some users mentioned that the sizing isn’t accurate. Salomon T3 RT Ski Boots What you need to know: These ski boots come in three unique colors and are suitable for both boys and girls. What you’ll love: These boots are made with polyurethane, which gives them unique durability. They are also easy to put on or off and include micro-adjustments in the buckle to ensure a custom fit. What you should consider: They might run small for children with big feet. Rossignol Comp J4 Ski Boots Kid’s What you need to know: These ski boots are designed with comfort in mind thanks to their comfort liners and unique diagonal buckles. What you’ll love: They include liners that are made with soft materials and designed to give optimal comfort and all-day cushioning. They also feature diagonal buckles that offer a more natural foot wrapping and excellent heel support. What you should consider: The buckles are made of thin metal wire, which might not be very durable. Prices listed reflect time and date of publication and are subject to change. Check out our Daily Deals for the best products at the best prices and sign up here to receive the BestReviews weekly newsletter full of shopping inspo and sales. BestReviews spends thousands of hours researching, analyzing and testing products to recommend the best picks for most consumers. BestReviews and its newspaper partners may earn a commission if you purchase a product through one of our links.
Dutton blasts Labor’s nuclear scare campaign video as energy debate heats up
PHILADELPHIA (AP) — The guy on the Philly sports talk radio station had something to say, and he started to vent about the perceived strained relationship between star quarterback Jalen Hurts and standout wide receiver A.J. Brown. Why weren’t these two Pro Bowl Eagles on the same page? Why had their personal and professional relationship changed even with Philadelphia enjoying tremendous success? It was football gossip usually ripe for a hot-take host or fed-up fan to stir up on the air — only in this instance, the temperature check came from inside the locker room. Normally respected team leader Brandon Graham, who is sidelined with a triceps injury, noted in a radio appearance that “ things have changed ” between Hurts and Brown in the wake of a stale passing game in last week’s win over Carolina. An apologetic Graham walked back his comments. Hurts and Brown both insisted their relationship was cool in front of media hordes more appropriate for the Super Bowl. As for the rest of the Eagles, they were ready to squash the so-called controversy. “We are moving on,” offensive lineman and Christmas song crooner Jordan Mailata said. “It is the Pittsburgh Steelers this week. Not the A.J. Brown and Jalen Show. It is the Pittsburgh Steelers. That’s it.” Oh yeah, the Steelers! Lost in the brouhaha ignited in a Philly sports bar is the fact that sitting — and winning — on the western side of Pennsylvania are the Steelers (10-3). Unlike most matchups in series history, this one Sunday at the Linc comes with the tantalizing appeal of a potential Super Bowl preview. The Steelers have won seven of eight, and the Eagles (11-2) have won nine straight and could clinch the NFC East with a win and a Washington loss or tie. It's the first time the teams — among the original eight NFL teams — will play each other when they both have a double-digit win total. Both teams are in strong position for a playoff run — the Eagles led by Saquon Barkley and his pursuit of Eric Dickerson's NFL season rushing record; Russell Wilson and the soft-schedule Steelers atop the AFC North in large part thanks to six wins against teams that currently have losing records. “I do like playing really good people, I think there's growth in it,” Steelers coach Mike Tomlin said. “You've got to get the job done. But man, I think there's significant growth in pitting your collective talents and skills versus big-time opponents and they're certainly that.” Will the drama out of Philly this week affect the Eagles? They certainly don't think so and neither do the oddsmakers — the Eagles are 5 1/2-point favorites, per BetMGM. “What I’ve noticed about this football team is they’re so locked in and determined to get better each day,” Eagles coach Nick Sirianni said. “We don’t really want anyone else talking to us about anything other than the Pittsburgh Steelers.” Good luck with that, Coach. Maybe playing the Steelers on Sunday at home can snap the Eagles out of their offensive malaise. Hurts threw three TD passes to Brown in a 35-13 win in 2022. Barkley watch Barkley leads the NFL in rushing with 1,623 yards, 216 yards ahead of Baltimore’s Derrick Henry. He is averaging 124.8 yards per game. At that pace, and with one more game to play than Dickerson had, he would become the top single-season rusher in NFL history. He needs 483 yards over the final four games to top Dickerson’s 40-year-old record. Barkley is on pace for 2,122 yards, which would put him just 17 yards beyond Dickerson’s 2,105 in 1984. Barkley doesn’t need much of a reminder from his 2020 performance when, while playing for the New York Giants, he ran into a Pittsburgh defense that seemed reminiscent of its famed Steel Curtain. The Steelers held Barkley to 6 yards on 15 carries. Bye, George The Steelers will have to find a way forward against the NFL’s toughest defense without wide receiver George Pickens, who will miss his second straight game with a hamstring injury. Pittsburgh survived last week against Cleveland, with Mike Williams and Scotty Miller — afterthoughts of late — coming off the bench to make an impact. While Tomlin believes “the strength of the pack is the pack,” the reality is the Steelers don’t have anyone who can stretch the field like Pickens, who leads the team in receptions (55) and yards (850) by a wide margin. It’s a challenge, but considering the way Wilson has spread the ball around — eight players caught passes against the Browns — he won’t lack for options. “Everybody in the receiver room has a different skill set, different strengths,” Calvin Austin III said. “The coaching staff knows that and they know how to put us in position to be able to show that.” Playoff preview The cross-state trip to Philadelphia, where the Steelers haven’t won in nearly 60 years, is the start of an 11-day stretch in which Pittsburgh faces three teams likely bound for the playoffs. While Tomlin is leaning into the “nameless, gray faces” mantra he uses for every opponent, his players know facing the Eagles, Ravens and Chiefs in such a short period is a litmus test for what’s to come in January. “That’s why I’m in the league, period,” linebacker Patrick Queen said. “When you sign up to play football, you want to play at the highest level. ... I love to play the game the right way. I think these next few games is going to show that and it starts with the Eagles.” ___ AP NFL: https://apnews.com/hub/nfl Dan Gelston, The Associated PressTulsi Gabbard, Trump’s pick for intel chief, faces questions on Capitol Hill amid Syria falloutU.S. imposes new controls on chip exports to China
Applied Industrial Technologies VP sells $1.13 million in stockSkating smiles as Jonas Brodin and Mats Zuccarello return to practice
( MENAFN - GlobeNewsWire - Nasdaq) TAIPEI, Taiwan, Dec. 19, 2024 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) -- Leading Pump Brand - Walrus Pump (TPEX: 6982) officially debuted on the Taiwan OTC market on the 18th at an underwriting price of NTD 51. Amid a global trend of steady growth in demand for pumps, the company not only maintains its position as the market leader in Taiwan, but it is also actively expanding its international footprint, at the same time focusing on innovative technology development and sustainable development strategies. Through expanding into the Southeast Asian market, introducing smart application technology water pumps, and enhancing ESG-compliant products, Walrus Pump's operational performance continues to rise. From January to November this year, its cumulative revenue reached NTD 1.47billion, reflecting a 15.22% annual growth, demonstrating impressive results. In recent years, Walrus Pump has actively strengthened its international market expansion, particularly on marketing and promotion strategies for the Southeast Asia market. In recent years, key export markets for the company include Thailand, Vietnam, and Cambodia. Its subsidiary, SUZHOU WALRUS PUMP, has launched the (TP8 series) in ASEAN markets, leveraging local tariff advantages to enhance competitiveness. Building on its successful experience in the Thai distribution market, the company plans to replicate this in other Southeast Asian markets, as well as promoting the WALRUS brand through local online social media platforms to further expand its brand influence. Simultaneously, to meet the market's demand for high-performance products, Walrus Pump is actively investing in the development of IoT-enabled smart pumps and brushless DC motors (BLDC). The BLDC speed-control pump developed by the company not only improves energy efficiency but also reduces power consumption. These products are particularly suitable for servo cooling systems and electric vehicle (EV) charging station cooling systems, offering energy-saving features that significantly enhance product competitiveness. In 2024, Walrus Pump's industrial series products have successfully been applied in server cooling systems, while its newly developed cooling circulation pump, specifically designed for EV charging stations, provides liquid cooling during charging. As global ESG policies continue to tighten, Walrus Pump has been proactively advancing its ESG strategies and consistently investing resources in green product development. The company's products incorporate high-efficiency energy saving motors and controller technologies, meeting RoHS and CE certifications, with green design concepts integrated from the design stage. Walrus Pump's operational momentum remains optimistic moving forward. Walrus Pump Spokesman +886 2 2768-0189 AMAZING CREATIVITY INTEGRATED MARKETING CO., LTD Mr. Hu 886 952-343-528 A photo accompanying this announcement is available at MENAFN19122024004107003653ID1109014814 Legal Disclaimer: MENAFN provides the information “as is” without warranty of any kind. We do not accept any responsibility or liability for the accuracy, content, images, videos, licenses, completeness, legality, or reliability of the information contained in this article. If you have any complaints or copyright issues related to this article, kindly contact the provider above.An Uxbridge manufacturing company, UCEL Inc., has been awarded almost $1.4 million by the Ontario government to help it expand its operations. The award was announced last week by Pickering-Uxbridge MPP and finance minister Peter Bethlenfalvy. An announcement by Bethlenfalvy’s office said the government award is in support of UCEL’s $10.8 million investment to boost local manufacturing and create 25 new jobs in Uxbridge. The funding is provided through the Regional Development Program’s Advanced Manufacturing and Innovation Competitiveness(AMIC) Stream. “UCEL Inc.’s investment will boost the local manufacturing sector and create more good-paying jobs for workers and families in Uxbridge,” Bethlenfalvy said. UCEL, which manufactures construction hoists and industrial elevators, plans to expand its operations and adopt new technologies that will offer new elevator system supporting solutions. The investment will also see UCEL bring additional manufacturing capabilities in-house, including work that is currently outsourced overseas.
Oklahoma hired Washington State’s Ben Arbuckle as its next offensive coordinator on Monday. ESPN first reported on Monday that the Sooners are finalizing a three-year deal for the 29-year old from Canadian, Texas to take over the vacancy left following the firing of Seth Littrell on Oct. 20. Arbuckle will be head coach Brent Venables’ third offensive coordinator hire since taking over the job in 2021. Arbuckle didn’t begin his coaching career until 2018 in a quality control role at Houston Baptist. In 2021 he was brought on at Western Kentucky in a similar role. Arbuckle worked his way up to offensive coordinator and quarterbacks coach during the 2022 season before being hired to lead the Cougars’ offense. In his first season in Pullman, Arbuckle had Washington State’s offense ranked fourth nationally in passing offense. Last season the Cougars were ranked ninth nationally in scoring offense. The Sooners have averaged 21.2 points per game this and parted ways with Littrell after just seven games leading the offense. Joe Jon Finley stepped up into an interim offensive coordinator role for the remainder of the season with offensive analyst Kevin Johns taking on a bigger role. They ended up going 6-6 in their first season in the SEC. Here’s a look at what Oklahoma will be getting in offensive coordinator Ben Arbuckle: The hiring of the 29-year old sends a clear message that the Sooners are willing to make a big swing to change the direction of the offense. It may seem like a risky hire, but Venables hasn’t been afraid of trusting young innovative minds to help lead his team. Last offseason the Sooners fired defensive coordinator Ted Roof and replaced him with Zac Alley, a 30-year old from Jacksonville State that’s been tabbed as one of the top young minds on that side of the ball. Arbuckle has received similar praise for his quick rise up the ranks of college football. One name that hasn’t often been brought up when discussing Arbuckle’s offenses is former OU head coach Lincoln Riley. Bob Stoops hired Riley when he was just 31 coming out of a prolific stint leading Eastern Carolina. Arbuckle is from West Texas and runs a similar scheme to Riley. At previous stops, Arbuckle has run an air raid offense that tries to beat teams by spreading them out and stressing the middle of the defense with the power run game. Cam Ward ran the Cougars’ offense in 2023 and passed for 3,735 yards with 25 touchdowns. Ward transferred to Miami after the season, but the Cougars were able to repeat their success with John Mateer behind center. As a sophomore Mateer completed 65% of his passes for 3,139 yards and 29 touchdowns. Mateer has been considered a target to hit the transfer portal even before Arbuckle’s departure was announced.ARRI Releases ARTEMIS 2 Live Camera Stabilizer ARRI introduces ARTEMIS 2 Live, a compact and lightweight camera stabilizer optimized for live productions such as sports and event broadcasts. Providing an accessible entry point into ARRI’s Camera Stabilizer Systems (CSS) range, ARTEMIS 2 Live is modular and upgradeable, allowing users to adapt their rig to different production demands and career pathways while retaining the quality and dependability of ARRI engineering. The culmination of years spent finessing the ARTEMIS system, ARRI’s ARTEMIS 2 Live combines operational flexibility with ergonomic, minimalist design. An exceptionally short post gives users more legroom and greater freedom to follow the fast, unpredictable action of live productions, even in tight spaces. New lightweight monitor brackets have been specially designed for live applications, with the base mount and monitor jockeys accommodating 7” monitors from brands including TRANSVIDEO, Smart Systems, and SmallHD. A second bracket supports the 5” ‘on air’ monitor often used on live production rigs. ARRI is offering the ARTEMIS 2 Live in a number of Ready to Shoot Sets, providing everything needed to integrate the stabilizer into live production environments. Among them is an option that allows ARTEMIS 2 Live to be easily and effectively combined with a Tiffen Volt gimbal. With its modular system structure, ARTEMIS 2 Live adapts to different power sources, making it simple to match whatever batteries are available at the shooting location and whatever camera is being used on the rig. ARTEMIS 2 Live reflects ARRI’s commitment to the live production sector, demonstrated earlier this year by the release of the ALEXA 35 Live – Multicam System. ARRI makes no qualitative distinction between the live and cinema markets, so ARTEMIS 2 Live components are interchangeable with those of ARRI’s cine-style stabilizers and embody the same uncompromising quality standards. The needs of EFP workflows are met with features such as TALLY and LBUS, allowing hybrid lens control of both ENG and cine zoom lenses. Users can upgrade their ARTEMIS 2 Live to a fully featured ARTEMIS 2 for film and drama productions, or even to a TRINITY 2, incorporating electronic stabilization for high-end applications involving more complex camera moves. And since brackets and accessories are compatible across the entire CSS product range, ARTEMIS 2 and TRINITY 2 owners can shrink-fit their rig to a live configuration with the help of an ARTEMIS 2 Live Conversion Kit. ARTEMIS 2 Live is available to order now.