
Hegseth meets with moderate Sen. Collins as he lobbies for key votes in the SenateWith deficits soaring, their finance ministers will have to be smart A merica’s gross national debt is $36trn, or $107,000 per person. It is rising fast and will probably soon be rising even faster. If Donald Trump’s election campaign was anything to go by, his return to the White House heralds a flurry of tax cuts on everything from corporate profits to tips. In the fiscal year that ended in September, Uncle Sam spent $1.8trn more than he collected in taxes (6.4% of GDP , or over double the annual earnings of America’s seven biggest firms). By one estimate, Mr Trump’s agenda could raise borrowing by $4.1trn in the coming decade. Discover more What Scott Bessent’s appointment means for the Trump administration The president-elect’s nominee for treasury secretary faces a gruelling job What Donald Trump and Bernie Sanders get wrong about credit cards Forget interest rates. Rewards are the real problem Computers unleashed economic growth. Will artificial intelligence? Two years after ChatGPT-3.5 arrived, progress has been slower than expected Should investors just give up on stocks outside America? No, but it is getting a lot harder to keep the faith Is China really a nation of slackers? A new survey raises the question Donald Trump’s gas war is about to begin It could annoy some of his most loyal supporters
Stock market today: Wall Street gets back to climbing, and the Nasdaq tops 20,000Capital Power Announces $350 Million Bought Offering of Common SharesMAA Announces Increase to Quarterly Common Dividend
NEW YORK (AP) — U.S. stock indexes drifted lower Tuesday in the runup to the highlight of the week for the market, the latest update on inflation that’s coming on Wednesday. The S&P 500 dipped 0.3%, a day after pulling back from its latest all-time high . They’re the first back-to-back losses for the index in nearly a month, as momentum slows following a big rally that has it on track for one of its best years of the millennium . The Dow Jones Industrial Average fell 154 points, or 0.3%, and the Nasdaq composite slipped 0.3%. Tech titan Oracle dragged on the market and sank 6.7% after reporting growth for the latest quarter that fell just short of analysts’ expectations. It was one of the heaviest weights on the S&P 500, even though CEO Safra Catz said the company saw record demand related to artificial-intelligence technology for its cloud infrastructure business, which trains generative AI models. AI has been a big source of growth that’s helped many companies’ stock prices skyrocket. Oracle’s stock had already leaped more than 80% for the year coming into Tuesday, which raised the bar of expectations for its profit report. In the bond market, Treasury yields ticked higher ahead of Wednesday’s report on the inflation that U.S. consumers are feeling. Economists expect it to show similar increases as the month before. Wednesday’s update and a report on Thursday about inflation at the wholesale level will be the final big pieces of data the Federal Reserve will get before its meeting next week, where many investors expect the year’s third cut to interest rates . The Fed has been easing its main interest rate from a two-decade high since September to take pressure off the slowing jobs market, after bringing inflation nearly down to its 2% target. Lower rates would help give support to the economy, but they could also provide more fuel for inflation. Expectations for a series of cuts through next year have been a big reason the S&P 500 has set so many records this year. Trading in the options market suggests traders aren’t expecting a very big move for U.S. stocks following Wednesday’s report, according to strategists at Barclays. But a reading far off expectations in either direction could quickly change that. The yield on the 10-year Treasury rose to 4.22% from 4.20% late Monday. Even though the Fed has been cutting its main interest rate, mortgage rates have been more stubborn to stay high and have been volatile since the autumn. That has hampered the housing industry, and homebuilder Toll Brothers’ stock fell 6.9% even though it delivered profit and revenue for the latest quarter that topped analysts’ expectations. CEO Douglas Yearley Jr. said the luxury builder has been seeing strong demand since the start of its fiscal year six weeks ago, an encouraging signal as it approaches the beginning of the spring selling season in mid-January. Elsewhere on Wall Street, Alaska Air Group soared 13.2% after raising its forecast for profit in the current quarter. The airline said demand for flying around the holidays has been stronger than expected. It also approved a plan to buy back up to $1 billion of its stock, along with new service from Seattle to Tokyo and Seoul . Boeing climbed 4.5% after saying it’s resuming production of its bestselling plane , the 737 Max, for the first time since 33,000 workers began a seven-week strike that ended in early November. Vail Resorts rose 2.5% after the ski resort operator reported a smaller first-quarter loss than analysts expected in what is traditionally its worst quarter. All told, the S&P 500 fell 17.94 points to 6,034.91. The Dow dipped 154.10 to 44,247.83, and the Nasdaq composite slipped 49.45 to 19,687.24. In stock markets abroad, indexes were mixed in China after the world’s second-largest economy said its exports rose by less than expected in November. Stocks rose 0.6% in Shanghai but fell 0.5% in Hong Kong. Indexes fell across much of Europe ahead of a meeting this week by the European Central Bank, where the widespread expectation is for another cut in interest rates. AP Business Writers Matt Ott and Elaine Kurtenbach contributed.
Weekend review: Barça drop more points as LaLiga title race tightensEnergy Drink Company Curated Art Basel Rubbish, Selling Pieces of Art For A Good Cause MIAMI , Dec. 11, 2024 /PRNewswire/ -- Lucky Energy , known for its full-flavor, deliciously refreshing energy drinks, kicked off its first-ever Art Basel appearance with an unforgettable activation that was as trashy as it was inspiring. Dubbed "Trashy Art," the activation featured models picking up garbage outside the Miami Beach Convention Center on days 1 and 2 of the art fair. The brand curated 30-40 pieces of this rubbish and sold them on ArtBaselTrash.com . All pieces went on sale for $13 - typically an unlucky number, but the brand finds that the most unlucky moments encourage us to "create our own luck." Proceeds of the sale will go towards DonorChoose. "Lucky Energy is a beverage and entertainment company that draws inspiration from pop art and fashion, so showing up in this format at Art Basel is an important milestone for us," said Lucky Energy Founder and CEO Richard Laver . Our "Talking Trash" initiative is a unique expression of our brand identity - it challenges conventional thinking and encourages deeper reflection. We believe it will resonate with our audience, who appreciate our delicious beverages, humor, and charm. Developed by Lucky Energy's in-house team, the website sold tickets to a Miami Heat Game, an unopened can of Lucky Energy Drink with lipstick on the rim, a long piece of black hair (rumored to belong to a famous sister that was once married to a rapper), an empty can of Redbull and more. "As the saying goes, 'art is art is art.' Art exists as its own entity, regardless of definition. With this insight, we ask, why can't trash fall into that category if everything is Art?" said Hamid Saify , CMO of Lucky Energy. "Our depiction of Art was designed to spark conversation and curiosity. As a brand, rethinking cultural norms is in our DNA. When told we can't or shouldn't, we are inspired to prove otherwise. We aim to instill that same 'can do' attitude and motivation in people, giving them the fuel they need to keep going. To make their own luck. This is why we are committed to supporting social causes, with the proceeds of "Trashy Art"' and an additional donation to funding a Miami -based kid's art program through DonorsChoose." Richard Laver founded Lucky Energy after experiencing tragic lows and dizzying heights; he launched the company to inspire people to persevere and keep going as he learned to do. He's the youngest survivor of the Delta 191 flight that killed his father and 136 others. After surviving the crash at just 12 years old, Laver suffered from depression and was homeless by 27. He eventually found the love of his life, Michelle, but during the premature birth of their first child, Kate, she was diagnosed with cerebral palsy and would need a feeding tube for nourishment. Through a medley of medical complications, he founded Kate Farms (now the #1 recommended plant-based tube-feeding formula) to save her life. In thinking about his next chapter, Laver landed on creating a cleaner alternative to the energy drinks on the market. To learn more about Lucky Energy and Trashy Art, visit www.luckybevco.com and follow @luckyenergyofficial on social media. Please contact Valeria Carrasco at valeria@hallettsconsulting.com with any questions. ABOUT Lucky Energy Drink Lucky Energy is a cleaner, better-for-you energy drink company founded by serial beverage entrepreneur Richard Laver . The brand creates high-quality products to motivate people to keep going . The product line features five flavors—with 5 super ingredients, including maca and beta-alanine, 0 sugar, 0 aftertaste, and only 5 calories. Products are available on Amazon. For more information, visit www.luckybevco.com and follow @luckyfckenergy on social media. View original content to download multimedia: https://www.prnewswire.com/news-releases/talking-trash-lucky-energy-debuted-at-art-basel-302329542.html SOURCE Lucky Beverage Company
Following arguably the most dominant year of golf since Tiger Woods was in his prime, Scottie Scheffler received the PGA Tour Player of the Year award on Tuesday night. It's the third straight year Scheffler has won the honor, and the World No. 1 joins Woods as the only players to win the Jack Nicklaus Award three years in a row. The award is determined by a vote of PGA Tour members. According to a news release, Scheffler received 91 percent of the vote, with Xander Schauffele and Northern Ireland's Rory McIlroy the only other nominees. Scheffler, 28, was the first player to win seven official PGA Tour events in a calendar year since Tiger Woods in 2007. Those victories were at some of the most prestigious events on the schedule, against some of the most elite fields. He became the first player to go back-to-back at The Players Championship, won his second career major title at the Masters and earned his other five wins at signature events: the Arnold Palmer Invitational, the RBC Heritage, the Memorial Tournament, the Travelers Championship and the season-ending Tour Championship. Though not a tour event, Scheffler captured the Olympic gold medal for men's golf at the Paris Games. He also helped the United States defeat the International team at the Presidents Cup in Montreal. "Scottie took on challenges from the best players in the world on the biggest stages all season, and being honored as PGA Tour Player of the Year is the ultimate sign of respect from his peers," PGA Tour commissioner Jay Monahan said in a statement. --Field Level Media
Pay first, deliver later: Some women are being asked to prepay for their babyThe New York Rangers called up goaltender Dylan Garand today as starting netminder Igor Shesterkin had to take a leave of absence from the team. Shesterkin is obviously one of the most important players if not the single most important player to the Rangers, but some things in life are more important than hockey. That is exactly why he is currently away from the team. Shesterkin and his wife are currently expecting their second child. This morning, his wife Anna went into labor so obviously Igor had to be there with her. As such, the team recalled goaltender Dylan Garand from the Hartford Wolf Pack. The move put the team over the 23-man roster, which would normally be a violation of NHL rules. However, the Rangers would not need to make an additional move if Garand was recalled on an emergency basis. It is not clear if that is the case or not though. Quick got the net this afternoon and got lit up by Seattle, giving up 6 goals on 21 shots. The Kraken would add an empty-netter to seal the game by a final score of 7-5. If Shesterkin is not able to return to the team tomorrow, which seems somewhat likely, the team would be forced to start a 38-year-old Quick on back-to-back days, or give the 22-year-old Garand his first taste of the NHL. Garand was a 4th round pick of the Rangers back in 2020. In 11 games at the AHL level this year he has a 7-2-2 record, a 2.42 goals-against-average, and a .917 save percentage. Be sure to tune in tomorrow to see if he makes his NHL debut against the Chicago Blackhawks . This article first appeared on Blade of Steel and was syndicated with permission.US House passes defense bill banning gender care for minorsThe U.S. leads the world in developing artificial intelligence technology, surpassing China in research and other important measures of AI innovation, according to a newly released Stanford University index. There's no surefire way to rank global AI leadership but Stanford researchers have made an attempt by measuring the “vibrancy” of the AI industry across various dimensions, from how much research and investment is happening to how responsibly the technology is being pursued to prevent harm. “The gap is actually widening” between the U.S. and China, said computer scientist Ray Perrault, director of the steering committee that runs Stanford's AI Index. “The U.S. is investing a lot more, at least at the level of firm creation and firm funding.” The California-based university's Institute for Human-Centered AI — which has ties to Silicon Valley's tech industry — released the report Thursday as government AI officials from the U.S. and several allies met in San Francisco this week to compare notes on AI safety measures. Here's which countries made the top 10: The U.S. ranks No. 1 on Stanford's list and has consistently held that position since 2018 when it overtook China. It has far outpaced China in private AI investment, which hit $67.2 billion in the U.S. last year compared to $7.8 billion in China, according to the report. It also leads in publishing responsible AI research. It's no surprise that the home of commercial AI powerhouses such as Google and Meta, along with relative newcomers like OpenAI and Anthropic, has produced many notable AI models that have influenced how the technology is being developed and applied. The U.S. also gets some points for having a number of AI-related laws on the books, though Congress has yet to pass any broad AI regulations. China has requested far more patents than any other country regarding generative AI, the U.N. intellectual property agency said earlier this year. Stanford researchers counted that as one measure of China's strong growth in AI innovation but not enough to lead the pack. Still, the report says that "China’s focus on developing cutting-edge AI technologies and increasing its R&D investments has positioned it as a major AI powerhouse.” China's universities have produced a large number of AI-related research publications and it has commercial leaders developing notable AI models, such as Baidu and its chatbot Ernie. Coming in at No. 3 is the UK, which also ranked high in research and development, and educational infrastructure due to top computer science universities churning out a skilled AI workforce. It's also home to Google's AI subsidiary DeepMind, whose co-founder recently won a Nobel Prize; and “had more mentions of AI in parliamentary proceedings” than any other country. Last year, the UK hosted the world’s first international AI safety summit. Close behind the UK was India, thanks to a “strong AI research community,” improvements in economic investments tied to AI and a robust public discourse about AI on social media, according to the report. The UAE's deliberate focus on AI appears to have paid off in the Middle Eastern nation's fifth-place score. It was one of the top locations for AI investments. Microsoft earlier this year said it was investing $1.5 billion in UAE-based tech firm G42, which is overseen by the country’s powerful national security adviser. Based in Abu Dhabi, G42 runs data centers and has built what’s considered the world’s leading Arabic-language AI model, known as Jais. Rounding out the top 10 are France at No. 6, followed by South Korea, Germany, Japan and Singapore. France, home to the buzzy AI startup Mistral, ranked high in AI policy and governance. Both it and Germany are part of the European Union's sweeping new AI Act that places safeguards on a range of AI applications based on how risky they are. The EU also follows the U.S. in developing a plan to expand semiconductor production within the bloc.
Zonta Club of the Pikes Peak Area has participated in the international organization’s annual initiative, “16 Days of Activism against Gender-Based Violence” for years. This year, the 35 members of the local club have gone big, said President Lisa Rice. The organization that helps women and girls succeed with various projects and scholarships considered buying a billboard to raise awareness about the worldwide issue of violence against women, in homes and public places. “We started with a billboard and ended with advertising on 12 bus benches and bus shelters to reach more people in Colorado Springs and get the message out,” Rice said. The message this year, and since 1991 when the campaign originated at the Women’s Global Leadership Institute coordinated by the Center for Women’s Global Leadership, is that violence against women and girls needs to be prevented and stopped. Local chapters do their part in different ways, Rice said. In addition to the bus stop promotion, the Pikes Peak Area chapter will raise awareness through social media and resource materials, she said. The campaign begins Monday and concludes on Dec. 10, however the bus stop messaging will continue through December, Rice said. The club paid $3,500 for the advertising and still has $1,500 to go toward the project. Donations can be made at zontapikespeak.org . About one in three women worldwide have experienced physical and/or sexual intimate partner violence or non-partner sexual violence in their lifetime, according to the World Health Organization. And on a typical day, there are more than 20,000 phone calls placed to domestic violence hotlines nationwide, as per data from the National Network to End Domestic Violence. Domestic-violence hotlines see increases as the holidays approach, Rice said, likely because the time of year is stressful for many families. “We do feel like it’s having an impact locally because we hear from people, ‘Thank you for sharing resources and books so I can learn more’ and ‘Thank you for putting up signs,’” Rice said of the upcoming campaign. Zonta Club also provides scholarships totaling $8,000 to $12,000 annually in general areas of study as well as business, aerospace and technology. Resources are available to anyone needing immediate assistance and more information: • National domestic violence crisis line: (800) 799-7233 • TESSA of Colorado Springs’ emergency hotline: (719) 633-3819 • Kingdom Builders Family Life Center in Colorado Springs: (719) 247-8190Caoimhe Bray's whirlwind summer of cricket has continued with selection in the Australian under-19 team bound for the World Cup in Malaysia and a NSW Breakers call-up. Login or signup to continue reading The Adamstown 15-year-old became the youngest person to sign a WBBL contract when she inked a three-year deal with the Sydney Sixers in October after a strong showing in the Spring Challenge. The talented all-rounder made a dream WBBL debut by hitting the winning runs in the Sixers' opening victory over eventual champions Melbourne Renegades on October 27. Then, in the space of 28 days, the year-nine student at St Pius X High School, Adamstown went from unheralded WBBL rookie to opening the bowling for the Sixers . Bray, who only turned 15 in September, finished her maiden campaign in the national T20 league with 10 wickets at an average of 20.80. After representing NSW Country at the Australian under-19 women's championships in Perth last week, Bray was named on Wednesday in the national team for the World Cup, which begins on January 18. On Thursday, the Upper Hunter product was then revealed in the NSW Breakers' 13-player team headed to Tasmania for Women's National Cricket League games against Tasmania on Saturday and Monday. Wallsend's Sam Bates was also named in the Breakers team for the two matches. Renee Valentine is a sports journalist with more than 20 years of experience in Newcastle. She is passionate about increasing the visibility of sportswomen in the media. Got a sports story, email Renee at r.valentine@newcastleherald.com.au Renee Valentine is a sports journalist with more than 20 years of experience in Newcastle. She is passionate about increasing the visibility of sportswomen in the media. Got a sports story, email Renee at r.valentine@newcastleherald.com.au DAILY Today's top stories curated by our news team. Also includes evening update. WEEKDAYS Grab a quick bite of today's latest news from around the region and the nation. WEEKLY The latest news, results & expert analysis. WEEKDAYS Catch up on the news of the day and unwind with great reading for your evening. WEEKLY Get the editor's insights: what's happening & why it matters. WEEKLY Love footy? We've got all the action covered. WEEKLY Every Saturday and Tuesday, explore destinations deals, tips & travel writing to transport you around the globe. WEEKLY Get the latest property and development news here. WEEKLY Going out or staying in? Find out what's on. WEEKDAYS Sharp. Close to the ground. Digging deep. Your weekday morning newsletter on national affairs, politics and more. WEEKLY Follow the Newcastle Knights in the NRL? Don't miss your weekly Knights update. TWICE WEEKLY Your essential national news digest: all the big issues on Wednesday and great reading every Saturday. WEEKLY Get news, reviews and expert insights every Thursday from CarExpert, ACM's exclusive motoring partner. TWICE WEEKLY Get real, Australia! Let the ACM network's editors and journalists bring you news and views from all over. AS IT HAPPENS Be the first to know when news breaks. DAILY Your digital replica of Today's Paper. Ready to read from 5am! DAILY Test your skills with interactive crosswords, sudoku & trivia. Fresh daily!Prospera Financial Services Inc reduced its holdings in Avery Dennison Co. ( NYSE:AVY – Free Report ) by 4.5% during the third quarter, Holdings Channel.com reports. The fund owned 3,209 shares of the industrial products company’s stock after selling 150 shares during the quarter. Prospera Financial Services Inc’s holdings in Avery Dennison were worth $709,000 at the end of the most recent reporting period. Other large investors have also recently modified their holdings of the company. Swedbank AB purchased a new stake in shares of Avery Dennison during the 1st quarter valued at $102,117,000. National Bank of Canada FI raised its position in Avery Dennison by 795.2% during the second quarter. National Bank of Canada FI now owns 160,248 shares of the industrial products company’s stock valued at $34,190,000 after purchasing an additional 142,348 shares in the last quarter. BNP PARIBAS ASSET MANAGEMENT Holding S.A. lifted its stake in Avery Dennison by 179.5% during the second quarter. BNP PARIBAS ASSET MANAGEMENT Holding S.A. now owns 216,135 shares of the industrial products company’s stock worth $47,258,000 after purchasing an additional 138,808 shares during the last quarter. Victory Capital Management Inc. boosted its holdings in shares of Avery Dennison by 6.8% in the 3rd quarter. Victory Capital Management Inc. now owns 1,416,798 shares of the industrial products company’s stock worth $312,772,000 after purchasing an additional 90,250 shares in the last quarter. Finally, Bahl & Gaynor Inc. increased its position in shares of Avery Dennison by 51.9% during the 2nd quarter. Bahl & Gaynor Inc. now owns 240,096 shares of the industrial products company’s stock valued at $52,497,000 after purchasing an additional 81,993 shares during the last quarter. Institutional investors own 94.17% of the company’s stock. Wall Street Analysts Forecast Growth AVY has been the subject of several research reports. Barclays cut their target price on Avery Dennison from $250.00 to $245.00 and set an “overweight” rating for the company in a research note on Monday, October 28th. Citigroup cut their price objective on shares of Avery Dennison from $241.00 to $240.00 and set a “neutral” rating for the company in a research note on Wednesday, October 2nd. Bank of America raised shares of Avery Dennison from an “underperform” rating to a “buy” rating and increased their target price for the company from $207.00 to $250.00 in a report on Thursday, October 17th. StockNews.com downgraded shares of Avery Dennison from a “buy” rating to a “hold” rating in a research note on Thursday, October 24th. Finally, BMO Capital Markets reduced their price objective on Avery Dennison from $252.00 to $247.00 and set an “outperform” rating on the stock in a research note on Thursday, October 24th. Four research analysts have rated the stock with a hold rating and eight have given a buy rating to the stock. According to MarketBeat, the stock currently has a consensus rating of “Moderate Buy” and a consensus price target of $244.96. Avery Dennison Price Performance Shares of AVY stock opened at $202.59 on Friday. The company has a debt-to-equity ratio of 0.85, a quick ratio of 0.62 and a current ratio of 0.92. Avery Dennison Co. has a fifty-two week low of $187.93 and a fifty-two week high of $233.48. The firm has a market cap of $16.28 billion, a P/E ratio of 24.32, a P/E/G ratio of 1.53 and a beta of 0.89. The business’s 50 day moving average price is $210.78 and its 200-day moving average price is $216.80. Avery Dennison ( NYSE:AVY – Get Free Report ) last released its quarterly earnings results on Wednesday, October 23rd. The industrial products company reported $2.33 earnings per share for the quarter, beating the consensus estimate of $2.32 by $0.01. Avery Dennison had a net margin of 7.76% and a return on equity of 33.01%. The business had revenue of $2.18 billion for the quarter, compared to analysts’ expectations of $2.20 billion. During the same quarter in the previous year, the business posted $2.10 earnings per share. The firm’s revenue for the quarter was up 4.1% compared to the same quarter last year. On average, equities research analysts anticipate that Avery Dennison Co. will post 9.42 earnings per share for the current year. Avery Dennison Announces Dividend The firm also recently announced a quarterly dividend, which will be paid on Wednesday, December 18th. Stockholders of record on Wednesday, December 4th will be issued a dividend of $0.88 per share. This represents a $3.52 dividend on an annualized basis and a dividend yield of 1.74%. The ex-dividend date of this dividend is Wednesday, December 4th. Avery Dennison’s dividend payout ratio (DPR) is presently 42.26%. About Avery Dennison ( Free Report ) Avery Dennison Corporation operates as a materials science and digital identification solutions company in the United States, Europe, the Middle East, North Africa, Asia, Latin, America, and internationally. It provides pressure-sensitive materials comprising papers, plastic films, metal foils, and fabrics; performance tapes products, including tapes for wire harnessing, as well as cable wrapping for automotive, electrical, and general industrial applications; mechanical fasteners, which are precision-extruded and injection-molded plastic devices used in various automotive, general industrial, and retail applications; and other pressure-sensitive adhesive-based materials and converted products under the Fasson, JAC, Yongle, and Avery Dennison brands. Featured Stories Want to see what other hedge funds are holding AVY? Visit HoldingsChannel.com to get the latest 13F filings and insider trades for Avery Dennison Co. ( NYSE:AVY – Free Report ). Receive News & Ratings for Avery Dennison Daily - Enter your email address below to receive a concise daily summary of the latest news and analysts' ratings for Avery Dennison and related companies with MarketBeat.com's FREE daily email newsletter .
Riya pens emotional note after her father's passingBy MARY CLARE JALONICK and MATT BROWN WASHINGTON (AP) — Pete Hegseth, President-elect Donald Trump’s nominee to lead the Defense Department, said he had a “wonderful conversation” with Maine Sen. Susan Collins on Wednesday as he pushed to win enough votes for confirmation. He said he will not back down after allegations of excessive drinking and sexual misconduct. Related Articles National Politics | Donald Trump will ring the New York Stock Exchange bell. It’ll be a first for him National Politics | The Trump and Biden teams insist they’re working hand in glove on foreign crises National Politics | ‘You don’t know what’s next.’ International students scramble ahead of Trump inauguration National Politics | Trump is threatening to raise tariffs again. Here’s how China plans to fight back National Politics | Trump won’t be able to save the struggling US beef industry Collins said after the hourlong meeting that she questioned Hegseth about the allegations amid reports of drinking and the revelation that he made a settlement payment after being accused of a sexual assault that he denies. She said she had a “good, substantive” discussion with Hegseth and “covered a wide range of topics,” including sexual assault in the military, Ukraine and NATO. But she said she would wait until a hearing, and notably a background check, to make a decision. “I asked virtually every question under the sun,” Collins told reporters as she left her office after the meeting. “I pressed him both on his position on military issues as well as the allegations against him, so I don’t think there was anything that we did not cover.” The meeting with Collins was closely watched as she is seen as more likely than most of her Republican Senate colleagues to vote against some of Trump’s Cabinet picks. She and Alaska Sen. Lisa Murkowski, a fellow moderate Republican, did not shy from opposing Trump in his first term when they wanted to do so and sometimes supported President Joe Biden’s nominees for the judicial and executive branches. And Hegseth, an infantry combat veteran and former “Fox & Friends” weekend host, is working to gain as many votes as he can as some senators have expressed concerns about his personal history and lack of management experience. “I’m certainly not going to assume anything about where the senator stands,” Hegseth said as he left Collins’ office. “This is a process that we respect and appreciate. And we hope, in time, overall, when we get through that committee and to the floor that we can earn her support.” Hegseth met with Murkowski on Tuesday. He has also been meeting repeatedly with Iowa Sen. Joni Ernst, a military veteran who has said she is a survivor of sexual assault and has spent time in the Senate working on improving how attacks are reported and prosecuted within the ranks. On Monday, Ernst said after a meeting with him that he had committed to selecting a senior official to prioritize those goals. Republicans will have a 53-49 majority next year, meaning Trump cannot lose more than three votes on any of his nominees. It is so far unclear whether Hegseth will have enough support, but Trump has stepped up his pressure on senators in the last week. “Pete is a WINNER, and there is nothing that can be done to change that!!!” Trump posted on his social media platform last week.The Detroit Lions beat the Green Bay Packers in one of the best games of the year. The Lions were able to score 34 points despite their run game struggling. Jared Goff had a very efficient game and made big plays when needed and the Packers offense struggled in the first half but got going in the second half to put up 31 points. Jordan Love didn’t turn the ball over but failed to find his top receiver, Jayden Reed. There are many winners from this huge win and a couple of losers. Winners Tim Patrick Tim Patrick was Goff’s go-to guy this week and had his best game as a Lion. He finished with 6 catches for 43 yards and 2 touchdowns, playing a large part in the Detroit Lions victory. Patrick has been an excellent signing for Detroit and has stepped into the wide receiver No. 3 role well not only as a pass catcher but also as a blocking receiver. He has been a huge part of the success of the offense so far, and if Detroit wants to win a Super Bowl, he will need to continue contributing. Terrion Arnold Arnold has been great the last few games and this week was no exception. He held the Packers receivers to just 2 catches for 9 yards. After starting the season rough, Arnold has been great over the past few games, looking like he can be a true lockdown corner in the NFL. He has been a huge upgrade to the Lions secondary and if the Detroit Lions want to continue winning, he will need to continue his top-tier play. Linebackers The Detroit Lions entered the day with Jack Campbell being the only linebacker from the beginning of the season healthy, but you wouldn’t be able to tell with how they were playing. Campbell made big plays, but so did recent additions like Ezekiel Turner and David Long. Turner was all over the field making plays, including bringing Jordan Love down on a crucial third down at the end of the game that held Green Bay to a field goal. He was the highest-graded PFF player for the Detroit Lions this week and made a huge difference. Long also made a big play recovering a fumble off Christian Watson that resulted in 3 points for Detroit. The Lions have been battling injuries the whole year, but if the new additions can continue to make an impact, they will be able to go far in the playoffs. Losers Carlton Davis Davis has been great for Detroit this year, but this week he struggled. Davis gave up a chunk play to Christian Watson to open the second half followed by a TD just a few plays later. Although he gave up 4 catches for 120 yards, he did make a big play to force a fumble. Davis has been good this year so there’s not much to worry about. He needs to play better than if the Lions want to win. David Montgomery and Jahmyr Gibbs The Lions have gotten their running game going almost every game, but this week was an exception. The Packers did a great job holding both Gibbs and Montgomery to under 4 yards per carry, forcing Detroit to have to win the game in the air. Taylor Decker was out again, which likely played a big role in how the run game operated, but they still need to succeed. The Lions offense runs on the two running backs, so they will need to have a better game come playoff time if the Detroit Lions want to win. Final Thoughts With the Detroit Lions clinching a playoff spot in Thursday’s victory, they must ensure the Minnesota Vikings do not overtake them in the NFC North standings. Detroit has a difficult game next week as the Buffalo Bills come to town in what may be a Super Bowl preview. This article first appeared on Total Apex Sports and was syndicated with permission.
8 Things to Remember About Dexter’s Childhood Before ‘Original Sin’Welltower Inc. stock outperforms competitors despite losses on the day
THE Bulawayo City Council (BCC) is resuscitating a 17-year-old resolution that mandates the repossession of council-leased shops whose occupants have exceeded a 10-year tenure, rather than crafting a new policy. This resolution, first passed on December 5, 2007, aimed at ensuring the equitable distribution of commercial spaces. However, it was shelved after resistance from various business groups. In 2017, the council attempted to enforce the measure, but the plan faced similar opposition, resulting in its delay. Recent deliberations by the council’s finance and economic development committee have reignited the issue. During a September meeting of the sub-committee on the allocation of stands and premises for development, discussions centered on introducing a policy to cap lease periods. However, it was noted that the 2007 resolution already provided a framework to address the matter. The sub-committee chairperson, Councillor Ntandoyenkosi Ndlovu, sought clarification on how the council would implement evictions under the policy. The council’s valuer and estates manager, Mr Thabani Ncube recommended a case-by-case approach, acknowledging ethical concerns about immediate evictions, especially for tenants with long-term leases. “Council would rather wait for the lapse of the policy and advise the applicants accordingly. However, a notice in writing would be issued out as a reminder of the new policy when applicants sought the renewal of leases,” said. It was subsequently resolved to reaffirm the 2007 resolution and proceed with its enforcement. Meanwhile, the council has issued a tender inviting bids for a variety of business premises across Bulawayo. These include tuck shops, kiosks, industrial stands, service stations, factory shells, social clubs, and a primary school site. Six tuck shops at various primary schools, including Mgombane, Sigombe, and Mtshane in Nkulumane, and Emganwini, Manondwane, and Aisleby Farm, are up for lease. Two kiosks at Barbourfields Stadium and the Borrow Swimming Pool are also available. The council has advertised a service station in Barham Green and nine service industry stands in Emakhandeni, Luveve, and Cowdray Park for ventures such as hair salons, grinding mills, gas retailing, and welding. Six factory shells in Kelvin North industrial area are being offered for activities like carpentry, tailoring, pottery, and electrical repairs. Other opportunities include leased shops in Makokoba and Njube, a primary school site in Montrose, and two social clubs in North End. One of the clubs is designated for amateur sports and social activities, while the other is earmarked for basketball. This initiative seeks to provide residents with opportunities to contribute to the city’s economic growth while addressing the longstanding issue of equitable access to council-leased properties. Raymond Jaravaza, ZIMBABWE is carving a niche as a global leader in the rapidly rising cannabis industry. By using research to develop cannabis seed genetics, the country is aiming to reduce production costs and increase export opportunities. This initiative indicates the country’s determination to drive economic development through cannabis farming. The Kutsaga Research Board is [...] Mukudzei Chingwere, Harare Bureau PRESIDENT Mnangagwa’s role as Chairman of the Southern African Development Community (SADC) has received global commendation for bringing peace and stability in the region. Visiting Director General of the International Organisation for Migration (IOM), Ms Amy Pope, who paid a courtesy call on the President at State House in Harare yesterday, said [...] Peter Matika, GOVERNMENT has assured the nation that the Strategic Grain Reserve (SGR) holds ample grain supplies to support essential food initiatives, such as the Food Deficit Mitigation Programme, despite rising concerns about a potential drought. Speaking during a post-Cabinet briefing yesterday, Information, Publicity, and Broadcasting Services Minister, Dr Jenfan Muswere, said the SGR currently [...]
Manhattan police have obtained a warrant for the arrest of 26-year-old Luigi Nicholas Mangione , suspect in the killing of UnitedHealthcare CEO Brian Thompson . Mangione was arrested at a McDonald’s in Altoona, Pennsylvania, while carrying a gun, mask and writings linking him to the ambush. Mangione is being held without bail in Pennsylvania on charges of possession of an unlicensed firearm, forgery and providing false identification to police. Late Monday, Manhattan prosecutors charged him with five counts, including murder, criminal possession of a weapon and criminal possession of a forged instrument. Here's the latest: White House press secretary Karine Jean-Pierre says “violence to combat any sort of corporate greed is unacceptable” and the White House will “continue to condemn any form of violence.” She declined to comment on the investigation into the Dec. 4 shooting death of UnitedHealthcare CEO Brian Thompson or reports that writings belonging to the suspect, Luigi Mangione, said insurance companies care more about profits than their customers. “This is horrific,” Jean-Pierre said of the fatal shooting of Thompson as he walked in Manhattan. He didn’t appear to say anything as deputies led him to a waiting car outside. “I’m deeply grateful to the men and women of law enforcement whose efforts to solve the horrific murder of Brian Thompson led to the arrest of a suspect in Pennsylvania,” Gov. Hochul said in the statement. “I am coordinating with the District Attorney’s Office and will sign a request for a governor’s warrant to ensure this individual is tried and held accountable. Public safety is my top priority and I’ll do everything in my power to keep the streets of New York safe.” That’s according to a spokesperson for the governor who said Gov. Hochul will do it as soon as possible. Luigi Nicholas Mangione, the suspect in the fatal shooting of a healthcare executive in New York City, apparently was living a charmed life: the grandson of a wealthy real estate developer, valedictorian of his elite Baltimore prep school and with degrees from one of the nation’s top private universities. Friends at an exclusive co-living space at the edge of touristy Waikiki in Hawaii where the 26-year-old Mangione once lived widely considered him a “great guy,” and pictures on his social media accounts show a fit, smiling, handsome young man on beaches and at parties. Now, investigators in New York and Pennsylvania are working to piece together why Mangione may have diverged from this path to make the violent and radical decision to gun down UnitedHealthcare CEO Brian Thompson in a brazen attack on a Manhattan street. The killing sparked widespread discussions about corporate greed, unfairness in the medical insurance industry and even inspired folk-hero sentiment toward his killer. ▶ Read more about Luigi Mangione Peter Weeks, the Blair County district attorney, says he’ll work with New York officials to try to return suspect Luigi Mangione there to face charges. Weeks said the New York charges are “more serious” than in Blair County. “We believe their charges take precedent,” Weeks said, promising to do what’s needed to accommodate New York’s prosecution first. Weeks spoke to reporters after a brief hearing at which a defense lawyer said Mangione will fight extradition. The defense asked for a hearing on the issue. In the meantime, Mangione will be detained at a state prison in western Pennsylvania. Manhattan District Attorney Alvin Bragg’s office said Tuesday it will seek a Governor’s warrant to secure Mangione’s extradition to Manhattan. Under state law, New York Gov. Kathy Hochul can issue a warrant of arrest demanding Mangione’s return to the state. Such a warrant must recite the facts necessary to the validity of its issuance and be sealed with the state seal. It would then be presented to law enforcement in Pennsylvania to expedite Mangione’s return to New York. But Blair County District Attorney Peter Weeks says it won’t be a substantial barrier to returning Mangione to New York. He noted that defendants contest extradition “all the time,” including in simple retail theft cases. Dickey, his defense lawyer, questioned whether the second-degree murder charge filed in New York might be eligible for bail under Pennsylvania law, but prosecutors raised concerns about both public safety and Mangione being a potential flight risk, and the judge denied it. Mangione will continue to be housed at a state prison in Huntingdon. He has 14 days to challenge the detention. Prosecutors, meanwhile, have a month to seek a governor’s warrant out of New York. Mangione, wearing an orange jumpsuit, mostly stared straight ahead at the hearing, occasionally consulting papers, rocking in his chair, or looking back at the gallery. At one point, he began to speak to respond to the court discussion, but was quieted by his lawyer. Luigi Mangione, 26, has also been denied bail at a brief court hearing in western Pennsylvania. He has 14 days to challenge the bail decision. That’s with some intervention from owner Elon Musk. The account, which hasn’t posted since June, was briefly suspended by X. But after a user inquired about it in a post Monday, Musk responded “This happened without my knowledge. Looking into it.” The account was later reinstated. Other social media companies such as Meta have removed his accounts. According to X rules, the platform removes “any accounts maintained by individual perpetrators of terrorist, violent extremist, or mass violent attacks, as well as any accounts glorifying the perpetrator(s), or dedicated to sharing manifestos and/or third party links where related content is hosted.” Mangione is not accused of perpetrating a terrorist or mass attack — he has been charged with murder — and his account doesn’t appear to share any writings about the case. He shouted something that was partly unintelligible, but referred to an “insult to the intelligence of the American people.” He’s there for an arraignment on local charges stemming from his arrest Monday. He was dressed in an orange jumpsuit as officers led him from a vehicle into the courthouse. Local defense lawyer Thomas Dickey is expected to represent the 26-year-old at a Tuesday afternoon hearing at the Blair County Courthouse. Dickey declined comment before the hearing. Mangione could have the Pennsylvania charges read aloud to him and may be asked to enter a plea. They include possession of an unlicensed firearm, forgery and providing false identification to police. In New York, he was charged late Monday with murder in the death of UnitedHealthcare’s CEO Brian Thompson. Mangione likely was motivated by his anger with what he called “parasitic” health insurance companies and a disdain with corporate greed, said a a law enforcement bulletin obtained by The Associated Press. He wrote that the U.S. has the most expensive healthcare system in the world and that the profits of major corporations continue to rise while “our life expectancy” does not, according to the bulletin, based on a review of the suspect’s hand-written notes and social media postings. He appeared to view the targeted killing of the UnitedHealthcare CEO as a symbolic takedown, asserting in his note that he is the “first to face it with such brutal honesty,” the bulletin said. Mangione called “Unabomber” Ted Kaczynski a “political revolutionary” and may have found inspiration from the man who carried out a series of bombings while railing against modern society and technology, the document said. A felony warrant filed in New York cites Altoona Officer Christy Wasser as saying she found the writings along with a semi-automatic pistol and an apparent silencer. The filing echoes earlier statements from NYPD Chief of Detectives Joseph Kenny who said Mangione had a three-page, handwritten document that shows “some ill will toward corporate America.” Mangione is now charged in Pennsylvania with being a fugitive of justice. A customer at the McDonald’s in Altoona, Pennsylvania, where Mangione was arrested said one of his friends had commented beforehand that the man looked like the suspect wanted for the shooting in New York City. “It started out almost a little bit like a joke, my one friend thought he looked like the shooter,” said the customer, who declined to give his full name, on Tuesday. “It wasn’t really a joke, but we laughed about it,” he added. The warrant on murder and other charges is a step that could help expedite his extradition from Pennsylvania. In court papers made public Tuesday, a New York City police detective reiterated key findings in the investigation he said tied Mangione to the killing, including surveillance footage and a fake ID he used to check into a Manhattan hostel on Nov. 24. Police officers in Altoona, Pennsylvania, found that ID when they arrested Mangione on Monday. Mangione is being held without bail in Pennsylvania on charges of possession of an unlicensed firearm, forgery and providing false identification to police. Late Monday, Manhattan prosecutors charged him with five counts, including murder, criminal possession of a weapon and criminal possession of a forged instrument. Mangione doesn’t yet have a lawyer who can speak on his behalf, court officials said. Images of Mangione released Tuesday by Pennsylvania State Police showed him pulling down his mask in the corner of the McDonald’s while holding what appeared to be hash browns and wearing a winter jacket and ski cap. In another photo from a holding cell, he stood unsmiling with rumpled hair. Mangione’s cousin, Maryland lawmaker Nino Mangione, announced Tuesday morning that he’s postponing a fundraiser planned later this week at the Hayfields Country Club north of Baltimore, which was purchased by the Mangione family in 1986. “Because of the nature of this terrible situation involving my Cousin I do not believe it is appropriate to hold my fundraising event scheduled for this Thursday at Hayfields,” Nino Mangione said in a social media post. “I want to thank you for your thoughts, prayers, and support. My family and I are heartbroken and ask that you remember the family of Mr. Thompson in your prayers. Thank you.” Officers used New York City’s muscular surveillance system . Investigators analyzed DNA samples, fingerprints and internet addresses. Police went door to door looking for witnesses. When an arrest came five days later , those sprawling investigative efforts shared credit with an alert civilian’s instincts. A customer at a McDonald’s restaurant in Pennsylvania noticed another patron who resembled the man in the oblique security-camera photos New York police had publicized. He remains jailed in Pennsylvania, where he was initially charged with possession of an unlicensed firearm, forgery and providing false identification to police. By late Monday evening, prosecutors in Manhattan had added a charge of murder, according to an online court docket. It’s unclear whether Luigi Nicholas Mangione has an attorney who can comment on the allegations. Asked at Monday’s arraignment whether he needed a public defender, Mangione asked whether he could “answer that at a future date.”NoneSimon Property Group Inc. stock underperforms Wednesday when compared to competitors
Tribune News Network DOHA: Qatar Airways Group Chief Executive Officer, Eng Badr Mohammed Al Meer, took part in this year’s Doha Forum, highlighting the airline’s commitment to sustainable growth, its strategic partnerships and focus on innovation with CNN anchor and correspondent, Julia Chatterley. The 22nd edition of the Doha Forum was held under the patronage of His Highness the Amir Sheikh Tamim bin Hamad Al Thani. The Forum welcomed world leaders, policy-makers, and experts to discuss innovative solutions and action-oriented recommendations for globally critical challenges, including security and technological advancements. The discussion with Eng Al Meer explored the impact of transformative investments, the navigation of complex geopolitical landscapes and seizing opportunities in emerging markets. Eng Al Meer shed light on one of his top priorities, Qatar Airways 2.0, which is focused on employee well-being and retention. He also discussed strategic partnerships from Africa to Australia, and the honour of being awarded the World’s Best Airline by Skytrax in 2024 for the eighth time. Eng Al Meer, said: "I was proud to represent Qatar Airways at this year’s Doha Forum." "Our increasingly connected world has introduced unique challenges, but has also unearthed new opportunities for cross-cultural understanding, much to the benefit of the aviation industry. Qatar Airways has strong and strategic diplomatic ties across the world and is a key player on the global stage. The demand for our services has remained high during both peak and low travel seasons." He continued: "With our partnerships in the emerging markets in Africa, the Americas, and India, we have built on our strengths of agility and commitment to sustainable growth to prove time and time again that Qatar Airways remains resilient, nimble, and responsive to change. These qualities are essential for growth in a multi-lateral environment." "Owing to our new era of Qatar Airways 2.0, dedication to our workforce, and growing investments and partnerships, our airline serves as the optimal case study for thriving businesses in rapidly evolving landscapes." Delivering a record profit of $1.7 billion in the previous financial year, Qatar Airways continues to invest in the latest technologies, most recently as the first global airline to introduce Starlink Wi-Fi across its fleet. The airline also acquired a 25 per cent stake in Southern Africa’s regional carrier, Airlink, and has been granted interim authorisation by the Australian Competition and Consumer Commission to engage with Virgin Australia in co-operative conduct under an integrated alliance, following Qatar Airways Group’s announcement in October that it intends to acquire a minority 25 per cent equity stake in Virgin Australia from Bain Capital (subject to FIRB approval), as part of its dedication to global connectivity. Copy 08/12/2024 10The Peach Bowl-bound Arizona State Sun Devils have fans around the country hungry for tickets to the New Year's Day game in Georgia. Arizona State is heading to the Peach Bowl on Jan. 1 after winning the Big 12 Championship on Dec. 7. The former President of the Arizona State Alumni Association says his phone is blowing up with ticket requests. The President of the ASU Alumni Association chapter in Georgia is excited to host the event. TEMPE, Ariz. - Arizona State earned the title of Big 12 Champions after defeating the Iowa State Cyclones on Saturday. ASU's next stop? The Peach Bowl in Atlanta where they'll faceoff against either Clemson or Texas. "This year was unbelievable. It really was. It exceeded expectations," said Seth Deitchman a former President of the ASU Alumni Association. Aimee Rene, president of the ASU Alumni Association in Georgia, shared the same sentiment. "Coach Kenny, we're so proud of you and the guys. It's going to be an awesome game. We can't wait," she said. "To be in the Big 12 championship was unbelievable. And then to win it and we were there," said Deitchman. "My son and I were there for the game and it was so great." Rene was also at the Big 12 Championship game in Arlington. "We had gone to Arlington last week and then came back and we got the news the next day that they're going to be right in my backyard. I mean, I cried so many times during like the last few games because I just can't believe it. It's like, so exciting," said Rene. Featured Newcomer Arizona State beats Iowa State in Big 12 title game to earn spot in College Football Playoff The Arizona State Sun Devils beat the Iowa State Cyclones to win the Big 12 Championship in their first year in the conference. They are heading to the first ever College Football Playoff. The Georgia ASU alumni chapter is beyond thrilled to host. "I've already had a ton of people reaching out to us, asking us if they can be involved or if they can, you know, help with the tailgates or, you know, organizations that are inviting us to come out to events. So, there's definitely going to be a lot of a lot of excitement. But also, we are ready to do whatever we need to do to make it a really successful time," said Rene. Flights to Atlanta from Phoenix have already skyrocketed and you can bet tickets for the game will be the same, which is why the former Deitchman says his phone is blowing up. The Peach Bowl is scheduled for New Year's Day at 11:00 a.m. Information for this story was gathered by FOX 10 reporter Lindsey Ragas.