I used Amazon noise cancelling headphones on a long haul flight and slept the whole way'Holiday gift ideas for the movie lover, from bios and books to a status tote
Canada's financial intelligence agency says it is modernizing with the aim of providing valuable information to police and security officials in real time -- or as close to that goal as it can get. In its newly released annual report, the Financial Transactions and Reports Analysis Centre of Canada says it is working with businesses and federal partners to move more quickly in the fight against money laundering and terrorist financing. The agency, known as Fintrac, identifies money linked to illicit activities by electronically sifting millions of pieces of information each year from banks, insurance companies, money services businesses, real-estate brokers, casinos and others. In turn, it discloses intelligence to police and security agencies about the suspected cases. In 2023-24, Fintrac produced more than 4,600 financial intelligence disclosure packages for recipients including the RCMP, municipal and provincial police, the Canada Border Services Agency and the Canada Revenue Agency. In a message in the report, Fintrac director Sarah Paquet says the agency aims to harness modern skills, tools and technologies to analyze data and produce intelligence in real time. Paquet said such swiftness could be a game-changer, for example, in the agency's efforts to track financial transactions related to human trafficking for sexual exploitation. "It will allow us to proactively identify and assist law enforcement in disrupting networks much quicker," she said. "This will mean rescuing victims sooner, saving them from prolonged abuse. It will mean supporting survivors sooner, getting them the assistance they need in a more timely fashion. And it will help law enforcement target, arrest and charge the traffickers sooner, preventing the abuse of new victims." Fintrac's digital strategy includes advancing automation, analytics and the use of artificial intelligence, Paquet said. In a bid to "stay ahead of the bad actors," Fintrac has created a digital acceleration and modernization team "to experiment with, and exploit, the latest technologies." Transnational organized crime groups and professional money launderers are the most prominent threats to Canada when it comes to illicit cash transactions, the report said. "At the same time, while the threat of terrorist financing is not as pronounced in Canada as it is in other regions of the world, there are networks operating in our country that are suspected of raising, collecting and transmitting funds abroad to various terrorist groups." This report by The Canadian Press was first published Nov. 26, 2024. Shopping Trends The Shopping Trends team is independent of the journalists at CTV News. We may earn a commission when you use our links to shop. Read about us. Editor's Picks The Ultimate 2024 Holiday Gift Guide For Nature Lovers And Outdoor Adventurers 27 Of The Absolute Best Stocking Stuffers For Men 24 Of The Best Host And Hostess Gifts You Can Find Online Right Now Home Our Guide To The Best Home Weather Stations In Canada In 2024 (And Where To Get Them) Our Guide To The Best Stand Mixers In Canada In 2024 (And Where To Get Them) Our Guide To The Best Nespresso Machines in Canada in 2024 (And Where to Get Them) Gifts 22 Gifts That Are Guaranteed To Impress Just About Anyone 15 Useful Amazon Products That Make Great Stocking Stuffers 19 Of The Best Tech Gifts Under $100 Beauty 20 Anti-Aging Skincare Products That Reviewers Can’t Stop Talking About 12 Budget-Friendly Makeup Brushes And Tools Worth Adding To Your Kit If You Suffer From Dry Skin, You'll Want To Add At Least One Of These Hydrating Moisturizers To Your Cart Deals These Grippy Non-Slip Socks Will Level Up Your Pilates Practice, And They're On Sale Right Now For Black Friday From Anthropologie To Adidas: Here Are The Best Early Black Friday Deals On Clothing And Accessories These Apple Products Are Majorly On Sale On Amazon Canada Right Now, So It Might Be Time To Upgrade Your Tech CTVNews.ca Top Stories Netanyahu says he supports proposed ceasefire with Lebanon's Hezbollah Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu on Tuesday recommended his Cabinet approve a United States-brokered ceasefire agreement with Lebanon's Hezbollah, setting the stage for an end to nearly 14 months of fighting linked to the ongoing war in the Gaza Strip. Loonie tanks after Trump threatens tariffs on Canadian goods The Canadian dollar fell to its lowest level since May 2020 after Donald Trump threatened to impose tariffs on Canadian goods shipped to the United States once he takes office in January. As Trump vows major tariff hike, a look at what the U.S. imports from Canada Some Canadian products could face huge tariffs on the first day of Donald Trump's administration in January. Here’s a quick look at what the U.S. imports from Canada. Canadian government suspends contracts with Boissonnault's former company The medical supply company co-founded by Liberal MP and former minister Randy Boissonnault has been suspended from bidding on or entering into contracts with the Government of Canada. DEVELOPING | Follow live: Notorious killer Paul Bernardo seeks parole Paul Bernardo, one of Canada’s most notorious killers, is seeking parole at the medium security La Macaza Institution in Quebec. He was transferred there from an Ontario maximum-security prison last year, to significant public outcry. Longtime member of Edmonton theatre community dies during 'A Christmas Carol' performance Edmonton's theatre community is in mourning after an actor died during a performance of "A Christmas Carol" at the Citadel Theatre on Sunday. Violence in Montreal had nothing to do with pro-Palestinian cause: police chief Montreal's police chief says it's 'impossible' for protest organizers to prevent people bent on violence from infiltrating demonstrations. They thought they'd found Amelia Earhart's plane. Instead, the search continues The disappearance of pioneering aviator Amelia Earhart more than 87 years ago has remained one of the most captivating mysteries in history, with a handful of explorers devoted to scouring the seas for any clue to her final whereabouts. DEVELOPING | Trudeau confirms premiers meeting, Poilievre calls Trump tariff threat 'unjustified' Prime Minister Justin Trudeau will be convening a meeting of all of Canada's premiers 'this week' to discuss U.S. president-elect Donald Trump's intent to impose a 25 per cent tariff on all products from Canada and Mexico on his first day in office, if border issues aren't addressed. Vancouver B.C. teen with avian flu remains in critical care, source of infection still unknown The teenager who is infected with the first human case of H5N1 avian influenza acquired in Canada remains in critical care at BC Children’s Hospital, officials said Tuesday. B.C. premier says Canada will negotiate from 'position of strength' on US tariff British Columbia Premier David Eby says Canada must stand together and negotiate from its position on strength against plans by United States president-elect Donald Trump to impose a 25 per cent tariff on imports from Canada and Mexico. Shots fired into Delta home, police say No one was injured when a suspect fired shots into a home in North Delta early Tuesday morning, police say, and the suspect remains at large. Toronto Ford says Trump's proposed 25 per cent tariff on Canadian goods like 'a family member stabbing you right in the heart' Ontario Premier Doug Ford says a 25 per cent tariff on all Canadian goods proposed by U.S. president-elect Donald Trump is akin to 'a family member stabbing you right in the heart.' Traveller at Toronto Pearson airport caught with 45 kg of weed in her luggage: RCMP A 21-year-old woman has been charged after allegedly attempting to conceal 45 kilograms of cannabis in her luggage. Loonie tanks after Trump threatens tariffs on Canadian goods The Canadian dollar fell to its lowest level since May 2020 after Donald Trump threatened to impose tariffs on Canadian goods shipped to the United States once he takes office in January. Calgary Alberta Premier Danielle Smith says Trump's border concerns are valid as tariffs loom Alberta Premier Danielle Smith says Donald Trump’s concerns about the border are valid, as the president-elect threatens sweeping tariffs on Canadian goods. LIVE at 3:30 | Alberta to announce actions against Ottawa's proposed emissions cap The Alberta government is hitting back at the proposed federal emissions cap Tuesday afternoon. Falconridge road rage incident investigated by Calgary police Calgary police are looking for video as they investigate an instance of road rage in Falconridge. Ottawa 'It's insulting:' Ontario premier slams Trump on Canadian tariff threat Ontario Premier Doug Ford is reacting to a threat from incoming U.S. president-elect Donald Trump to impose tariffs on imports from Canada, calling the proposal ‘insulting’ and emphasizing the need for leaders to work together on a response. More winter weather expected this week in Ottawa A freezing rain warning in Ottawa has been lifted after a low-pressure system moved through eastern Ontario on Tuesday. Environment Canada says freezing rain will transition to rain as temperatures rise above 0 C this morning. Land near Dow's Lake being cleared in advance of new Civic Campus construction This is another step in the plan to construct a cutting-edge replacement for the aging Civic Campus, which just celebrated its 100th anniversary. Montreal Violence in Montreal had nothing to do with pro-Palestinian cause: police chief Montreal's police chief says it's 'impossible' for protest organizers to prevent people bent on violence from infiltrating demonstrations. Shipping container of teddy bears pulled out of river near Montreal A shipping container full of teddy bears that fell into the St. Lawrence River near the Port of Montreal over the weekend has been successfully removed. Legault says Trump's 25 per cent tariff would pose 'huge risk' for Quebec, Canadian economies Premier François Legault says President-elect Donald Trump's threat of a 25 per cent tariff on all imports would pose a 'huge risk' to the Quebec and Canadian economies. Edmonton LIVE at 3:30 | Alberta to announce actions against Ottawa's proposed emissions cap The Alberta government is hitting back at the proposed federal emissions cap Tuesday afternoon. Alberta Premier Danielle Smith says Trump's border concerns are valid as tariffs loom Alberta Premier Danielle Smith says Donald Trump’s concerns about the border are valid, as the president-elect threatens sweeping tariffs on Canadian goods. Alberta building new youth recovery beds at Edmonton jail The Alberta government is spending millions to create new spaces for youth addiction recovery at an Edmonton jail. Atlantic Nova Scotians head to the polls to vote in snap election; results delayed by an hour Nova Scotians are casting their votes Tuesday in a snap provincial election, but they won't learn the outcome until after 9 p.m., due to a delayed opening at a polling station. N.S. lobster buyer calls for heightened policing after shot fired into Meteghan home A lobster buyer in Meteghan, N.S., is looking for heightened policing aimed at organized crime after a bullet was fired into his home on Saturday night. Halifax-area residents served by Lake Major asked to continue to conserve water despite recent rain Halifax Water continues to ask residents and businesses who are served by Lake Major to conserve their water use. Winnipeg 'It would mean a recession': Premier Kinew speaks on Trump's tariff threat Tariffs on Canadian goods headed to the United States would mean a recession in Manitoba. That is how Manitoba Premier Wab Kinew feels about comments from president-elect Donald Trump Monday. Portage la Prairie Mall closing after 45 years A beloved retail staple in Portage la Prairie, Man., is shutting its doors at the end of the year. Steinbach man charged with child luring: RCMP A 20-year-old man from Steinbach has been charged with child luring, and RCMP have released one of his social media handles to help identify more victims. Regina Defence-called expert says Regina chiropractor accused of sexual assault followed industry standards An expert called by Ruben Manz’s defence counsel testified the Regina-based chiropractor, who is facing several sexual assault charges, followed the industry standard of care when treating the complainants. Sask. premier says Trump tariff on products would be 'disastrous' for food security, energy, employment Saskatchewan Premier Scott Moe says if President-elect Donald Trump imposes a 25 per cent tariff on all products from Canada and Mexico it would have a disastrous effect on food security and energy across North America. IN PICTURES | Here are the winners of the 2024 ExploreSask photo contest The winners of Tourism Saskatchewan's annual ExploreSask photo contest have been revealed. Kitchener Victims' families urge parole board to keep 'sadistic' killer Bernardo behind bars The mothers of two teenage girls who were tortured and murdered by Paul Bernardo made emotional pleas at a Parole Board of Canada hearing Tuesday to keep the notorious killer and rapist behind bars, as he makes his third attempt to secure a release. Police responding to barricaded person call in Kitchener There is an increased police presence in a Kitchener neighbourhood as police respond to a call about a barricaded person. INTERPOL warns Guelph Police of concerning social media post A Guelph teenager has learned to be more careful about what she posts online after one of her Snapchat stories caught the attention of INTERPOL. Saskatoon Saskatoon man hospitalized after he was allegedly stabbed in the forehead A man has been taken to hospital after he was allegedly stabbed in the forehead early on Tuesday. City budget adjusted to include 5.84% property tax bump The City of Saskatoon's planned property tax increase in its proposed budget has been marginally bumped up to 5.84 per cent. Saskatoon businesses prepare for possible holiday impact amid Canada Post strike As Canada Post workers mark their second week on the picket line, some Saskatoon businesses say they’ve had to adapt to disruptions in postal services during their busiest time of year. Northern Ontario Sudbury resident scammed out of $20K, suspect from southern Ont. charged A 21-year-old from southern Ontario has been charged with several offences after a victim from Greater Sudbury was tricked into giving him $20,000. Suspect in attempted murder in Cobalt, Ont., makes court appearance The 18-year-old suspect charged in a disturbing attack on his ex-girlfriend was in court Tuesday morning. Sault police issue alert about surge in grandparent scams The Sault Ste. Marie Police Service warned residents Tuesday about a surge in grandparent scams targeting local senior citizens. London Fatal crash reported south of Ingersoll A stretch of road south of Ingersoll is expected to be closed for several hours following a crash. OPP are on scene of the two-vehicle crash on Plank Line, which is closed between McBeth Road and Salford Road. Man allegedly breaks into woman’s house, stands naked with a knife beside her bed: Sarnia police Sarnia police have issued a public safety advisory in the area of Kathleen Avenue and East Street following the report of a disturbing break and enter. Victims' families urge parole board to keep 'sadistic' killer Bernardo behind bars The mothers of two teenage girls who were tortured and murdered by Paul Bernardo made emotional pleas at a Parole Board of Canada hearing Tuesday to keep the notorious killer and rapist behind bars, as he makes his third attempt to secure a release. Barrie One person seriously injured in collision with dump truck Emergency crews are at the scene of a serious collision between a dump truck and a minivan in Clearview Township. Multi-vehicle crash involving dump truck sends 3 to hospital Three people were hospitalized after police say a dump truck struck four vehicles in Newmarket on Monday afternoon. Midland murder trial enters final week with accused claiming self-defence The trial of a Midland man accused of murder in the fatal stabbing of his tenant three years ago is in its final week as the Crown and defence prepare to make their closing arguments to the jury. Windsor Two suspects wanted for pharmacy break-in Windsor police are searching for two suspects after a break-in at a pharmacy on Tecumseh Road East. Lakeshore man facing more sex assault charges after second alleged victim comes forward Essex County OPP say a Lakeshore man is facing more sexual assault charges after a second alleged victim has come forward. Amicable end proposed for former Grace Hospital site The Corporation of the City of Windsor and Fairmount Properties LLC issued a joint statement about the former Grace Hospital site near downtown Windsor. Vancouver Island B.C. premier says Canada will negotiate from 'position of strength' on US tariff British Columbia Premier David Eby says Canada must stand together and negotiate from its position on strength against plans by United States president-elect Donald Trump to impose a 25 per cent tariff on imports from Canada and Mexico. B.C. teen with avian flu remains in critical care, source of infection still unknown The teenager who is infected with the first human case of H5N1 avian influenza acquired in Canada remains in critical care at BC Children’s Hospital, officials said Tuesday. Mounties seize cannabis, submachine guns in B.C. investigation Mounties say they have dismantled a large drug distribution ring in Metro Vancouver, seizing automatic weapons and hundreds of kilograms of illicit cannabis. Kelowna Man in hospital following targeted shooting in Kamloops Police are appealing for information on a targeted shooting that resulted in the hospitalization of a man in Kamloops. Police cleared of fault in fatal 2023 crash in B.C.'s Interior British Columbia's independent police watchdog has cleared officers of wrongdoing in a crash where three people were killed south of Kamloops in July of last year. B.C. woman sentenced for stealing $14K in funds raised for schoolkids A B.C. woman who stole more than $14,000 in volunteer-raised funds that were supposed to be spent on school supplies and programs – including hot meals for vulnerable kids – won't spend any time in jail. Lethbridge 'Let's do this': Crowsnest Pass mayor wants proposed coal mine sooner than later A mayor in southwestern Alberta is hoping for an immediate meeting with Premier Danielle Smith to discuss a coal project his community has voted in favour of being built. Nenshi says not sending voter cards due to postal strike could affect byelection Alberta Opposition Leader Naheed Nenshi says a decision not to mail out voter registration cards due to the Canada Post strike could hurt turnout in a provincial byelection that's been called for a week before Christmas. Lethbridge business community concerned as Canada Post strike drags on Lethbridge businesses are starting to feel the pressure after 11 days of the Canada Post workers’ strike. The strike comes right as the Christmas shopping season is kicking into high gear. Sault Ste. Marie Sault police issue alert about surge in grandparent scams The Sault Ste. Marie Police Service warned residents Tuesday about a surge in grandparent scams targeting local senior citizens. Sault road reopens after building safely demolished A building on Queen Street East in Sault Ste. Marie is in danger of collapsing because of heavy snow. Hwy. 17 closed following fatal collision near Bruce Mines One person has been killed in a four-vehicle collision on Highway 17 east of Bruce Mines. N.L. As N.L. firm pivots, scientists say Canada's green hydrogen dreams are far-fetched A Newfoundland energy company's embrace of data centres is raising doubts about eastern Canadian hopes of harnessing the region's howling winds to supply Germany with power from green hydrogen. Canadian leads group pushing Vatican for zero-tolerance policy on abuse by clergy An international group led by a Canadian is in Rome this week to push the Catholic Church to adopt a zero-tolerance policy on abuse by clergy. Newfoundland wind-to-hydrogen company eyes data centre as international market lags A company hoping to build a multi-billion-dollar wind-to-hydrogen project in western Newfoundland is eyeing other options as Canada's plans to supply Europe with green energy have not yet materialized. Local Spotlight Trailer Park Boys host Canadian premiere of new movie in Dartmouth Sunday night was a big night for the Trailer Park Boys, as Ricky, Julian and Bubbles hosted an advanced screening of their new movie in Dartmouth, N.S. Deer spotted wearing high-visibility safety jacket in Northern B.C. Andrea Arnold is used to having to slow down to let deer cross the road in her Northern B.C. community. But this weekend she saw something that made her pull over and snap a photo. From cellphones to dentures: Inside Halifax Transit’s lost and found Every single item misplaced on a bus or ferry in the Halifax Regional Municipality ends up in a small office at the Halifax Transit Bridge Terminal in Dartmouth, N.S. Torontonians identify priorities, concerns in new city survey A new public opinion survey has found that 40 per cent of Torontonians don’t feel safe, while half reported that the quality of life in the city has worsened over the last year. Longtime member of Edmonton theatre community dies during 'A Christmas Carol' performance Edmonton's theatre community is in mourning after an actor died during a performance of "A Christmas Carol" at the Citadel Theatre on Sunday. Beaver shot with arrow near Orillia on the road to recovery A beaver found with an arrow shot through its torso is now recovering at Shades of Hope Wildlife Refuge in Pefferlaw, Ont. after a massive rescue effort. 'I had no idea that they even existed': Family reunites with 80-year-old letters hidden in Winnipeg home The family of a soldier who fought during the Second World War has been reunited with letters written to him 80 years ago. The Thriftmas Special: The benefits of second-hand holiday shopping The holidays may be a time for family, joy and togetherness, but they can also be hard on the wallet. Video shows octopus 'hanging on for dear life' during bomb cyclone off B.C. coast Humans weren’t the only ones who struggled through the bomb cyclone that formed off the B.C. coast this week, bringing intense winds and choppy seas. Politics DEVELOPING | Trudeau confirms premiers meeting, Poilievre calls Trump tariff threat 'unjustified' Prime Minister Justin Trudeau will be convening a meeting of all of Canada's premiers 'this week' to discuss U.S. president-elect Donald Trump's intent to impose a 25 per cent tariff on all products from Canada and Mexico on his first day in office, if border issues aren't addressed. Canadian government suspends contracts with Boissonnault's former company The medical supply company co-founded by Liberal MP and former minister Randy Boissonnault has been suspended from bidding on or entering into contracts with the Government of Canada. Freeland says the two-month GST holiday is meant to tackle the 'vibecession' The federal government is hoping a temporary break on GST will address a 'vibecession' that has gripped Canadians, Finance Minister Chrystia Freeland said Monday. Health Doctors say it’s fine to pee in the shower Here’s a secret that’s not really a secret — many people pee in the shower. Maybe you’re one of those people who don’t care since it’s all going down the same drain, or perhaps you’re one of those who find it unhygienic. B.C. teen with avian flu remains in critical care, source of infection still unknown The teenager who is infected with the first human case of H5N1 avian influenza acquired in Canada remains in critical care at BC Children’s Hospital, officials said Tuesday. Bird flu virus detected in raw milk in California Bird flu virus has been found in a batch of raw milk sold in California, and consumers should not drink it, the state Department of Public Health warned Sunday. Sci-Tech They thought they'd found Amelia Earhart's plane. Instead, the search continues The disappearance of pioneering aviator Amelia Earhart more than 87 years ago has remained one of the most captivating mysteries in history, with a handful of explorers devoted to scouring the seas for any clue to her final whereabouts. Majority of social media influencers don't verify information before sharing it, study finds A majority of social media influencers don't verify information before sharing it with their audiences, a study published Tuesday by the UN's scientific and cultural arm found, underscoring concerns that some of the biggest online figures can uncritically spread misleading claims. Ancient Egyptians drank a heady mix of alcohol, bodily fluids and hallucinogens during rituals, scientists say Researchers have discovered the residues of psychedelic drugs, bodily fluids and alcohol inside a 2,000-year-old mug, suggesting that ancient Egyptians imbibed hallucinogenic beverages during rituals. Entertainment 'No view' tickets for Taylor Swift's Vancouver shows reselling for thousands It appears that Swifties hoping to experience the final dates of the sold-out Eras Tour in December were given another chance Monday. It's almost time for Spotify Wrapped. When can you expect your 2024 recap? It's almost that time of year: Spotify is gearing up to release its annual Wrapped, personalized recaps of users' listening habits and year in audio. Economic impact of Taylor Swift's Eras Tour in Vancouver estimated at $157M Tourism body Destination Vancouver says Taylor Swift will bring an estimated $157 million economic impact to the city next week with the three final concert dates of the record-breaking Eras Tour. Business Bank of Canada says Trump's proposed tariffs would impact both economies The Bank of Canada said on Tuesday that if U.S. President-elect Donald Trump follows through on his threat of tariffs on Canada, it would have an impact on both economies and the central bank would incorporate those into its economic forecasts. Loonie falls to lowest since 2020 after Trump threatens tariffs on Canadian goods The Canadian dollar fell to its lowest level since May 2020 after Donald Trump threatened to impose tariffs on Canadian goods shipped to the United States once he takes office in January. Mexico suggests it would impose its own tariffs to retaliate against any Trump tariffs President Claudia Sheinbaum suggested Tuesday that Mexico could retaliate with tariffs of its own, after U.S. President-elect Donald Trump threatened to impose 25 per cent import duties on Mexican goods if the country doesn’t stop the flow of drugs and migrants across the border. Lifestyle World's oldest man dies aged 112 in England John Tinniswood, an Englishman born the same year the Titanic sank and who survived two world wars and two global pandemics, has died aged 112, Guinness World Records said on Tuesday, months after it recognized him as the world's oldest man. China's hottest new tourist attraction is 5,000 feet in the air The newest of these not-for-the-faint-of-heart structures is called Tianti (“Sky Ladder” in Chinese). It clocks in at 168 metres and stretches between two cliffs at a height of 5,000 feet, according to Chinese state media. Dictionary.com has named its word of the year, and it isn't 'brat' In an announcement Monday, Dictionary.com said one word experienced a 'meteoric rise in usage' in 2024. Sports NBA legend Charles Barkley criticizes LA Lakers over handling of Bronny James NBA legend Charles Barkley has criticized the Los Angeles Lakers over their handling of Bronny James this season. 'Embarrassing:' NHL team ditches bus and walks to Scotiabank Arena amid gridlock The Utah Hockey Club got the full Toronto experience Sunday night ahead of their first-ever matchup against the Maple Leafs—bumper-to-bumper traffic that forced the team to walk to the game. Vancouver Whitecaps drop head coach Vanni Sartini Two weeks after the Vancouver Whitecaps’ playoff run ended in the first round, the team has fired head coach Vanni Sartini. Autos Ontario woman buys van with odometer rolled back almost 100,000 kilometres An Ontario woman thought she got a good deal when she bought a van for $2,700, but later learned the odometer had been rolled back nearly 100,000 kilometres. Nearly 46,000 electric vehicles recalled in Canada over power loss risk Nearly 46,000 electric vehicles from Kia, Hyundai and Genesis are being recalled in Canada over a potential power loss issue that can increase the risk of a crash. Northvolt says Quebec battery plant will proceed despite bankruptcy filing Northvolt AB has filed for bankruptcy protection in the United States, but said the move will not jeopardize the manufacturer's planned electric vehicle battery plant in Quebec — though hundreds of millions of taxpayer dollars invested in the parent company could be lost. Stay ConnectedSeven losses in a season is unfamiliar territory for the San Francisco 49ers. With two Super Bowl appearances in five seasons, general manager John Lynch openly admits the 49ers haven't earned the right to be called "as good" as the 2023 NFC championship group. San Francisco is 5-7 but only two games behind NFC West-leading Seattle with five games remaining as the Chicago Bears (4-8) arrive Sunday. "I've found the whole discussion on Kyle rather comical," Lynch said in an interview Friday with KNBR in San Francisco. "We have won four of the last five division championships. We've been to two Super Bowls. The standard here is to win championships, and we've fallen short of that, I understand. "But we have an excellent head coach, and the fact that people are talking about stuff like that, I do find it comical. We're 100 percent behind Kyle and what he brings to our organization. Like I said, our focus is really on the Bears and doing everything we can. That's where Kyle's focus is, and that's where all our focus is." San Francisco lost 35-10 in the snow at Buffalo last Sunday night and the 49ers placed their top two running backs on injured reserve due to injuries in that game. Christian McCaffrey (knee) and Jordan Mason (ankle) could return for Week 18 at Arizona if the 49ers are still fighting for a playoff spot. In a top-down ranking of NFC teams by record and playoff position, the 49ers are No. 11 entering Week 14. "You are what your record says you are in this league, and that isn't very good. So I think we've been through a lot as a team, this current team with a lot of stuff that has happened to members of our organization. Injuries, tragic circumstances, ultimately those are just excuses. One thing I can tell you is I'm proud of how this group has stuck together, had each other's back. The other thing I can tell you is the story's not written yet. We're still grinding, and we're still playing." The 49ers last missed the postseason in 2020 with a record of 6-10 that followed an appearance in the Super Bowl -- San Francisco's first title game loss of two to the Kansas City Chiefs. San Francisco's upcoming schedule after Sunday includes a short week before playing the division rival Rams on Thursday, at Miami (Dec. 22), a Monday night matchup with the Detroit Lions on Dec. 30 and the finale against the Cardinals. --Field Level Media
Robot with charging capabilities joins China's lunar landing missionFive-star center Chris Cenac Jr. commits to HoustonDespite vast the political differences between and Kenneth Kaunda’s black-majority-ruled Zambia, . Weakened by international isolation and an internal war, Southern Rhodesia used its position as a producer of agricultural and manufactured goods and a transport link to regional and international markets to force Zambia into an uneasy alliance. There has been a lot of focus on Rhodesia’s relations with , the and . But Rhodesia’s relations with Zambia have often been neglected. Yet they were crucial for Rhodesia’s survival in the post-Federation decade. The dissolution of the Federation of Rhodesia and Nyasaland in 1963 left only Rhodesia under white minority rule. The other two states in the federation, Zambia and Malawi, became independent in 1964 and were ruled by their black majorities. Post-independence, the Zambian government supported black political parties in Rhodesia including the Zimbabwe African National Union (ZANU) and Zimbabwe African People’s Union (ZAPU) who were fighting for and freedom from white rule. Despite the dissolution of the Federation, there were several joint institutions that still needed to be administered through cooperation between Zambia and Rhodesia. These institutions included the Amalgamated Rhodesia Railways, the Central African Airways Corporation and the Central African Power Corporation which administered Kariba Hydro Power Station, located on the two states’ shared border. Their mutual business interests compelled harmonious shared administration, despite antagonistic political relations between the two states. In 1963, Southern Rhodesia started to allow the top leaders of the United National Independence Party (UNIP) from Zambia into Southern Rhodesia in anticipation of improved trade relations between the two states. The leaders included UNIP , Simon Kapwepwe, and . Previously, they had been banned from entering Southern Rhodesia because of their opposition to the white administration in then-Northern Rhodesia. Southern Rhodesia’s Minister of Trade, Industry and Development, C. W. Rudland, negotiated with the Zambian government over a formal trade agreement in the latter half of 1963. Smith intended to convince Kaunda to maintain the Tariff arrangements from the Federation of Rhodesia and Nyasaland, which exempted most Rhodesian goods from duty when entering the Zambian market. The trade negotiations failed, and Zambia suspended the Federal Protective Tariffs on 27 June 1964, arguing that the arrangement was not of any benefit to its economy. In 1965, Southern Rhodesia responded by suspending duty-free importation of Zambian commodities into its territory. Apart from trade engagements, Southern Rhodesia used conventional diplomacy to forge cooperation with Zambia. Through its External Affairs Undersecretary J.F. Bowles, Southern Rhodesia sought establishment of consular services and security services’ cooperation with Zambia, to create a favourable environment for cooperative economic relations between the two states. However, Zambia declined these proposals, arguing that the diplomatic arrangements would only be feasible once Smith had allowed majority rule by ZANU and ZAPU in Southern Rhodesia. Nevertheless, while professing this publicly, Zambia continued to trade extensively with Southern Rhodesia. Behind the public mask of politics, it was business as usual. On 11 November 1965, Smith’s cabinet declared the Unilateral Declaration of Independence (UDI). Rhodesia (previously Southern Rhodesia) now regarded itself as an independent sovereign state, free of the influence of Briain. The UK declared sanctions five days later, and the United Nations (UN) imposed selective sanctions in December 1966, with a total ban of all exports and imports from and to Rhodesia. Isolated and facing an escalating internal war by liberation forces, Rhodesia used its connections with Zambia to continue to trade. Zambia feared that if it implemented sanctions, Rhodesia would disrupt the power supply from the shared Kariba hydroelectric power station. Kaunda also feared transport links to Mozambique and South African ports would be cut off, and the potential deportation of Zambian workers from Rhodesia. Rhodesia leveraged this trifecta of Zambian insecurities, to ensure continued economic interactions between the two states despite international sanctions and their opposing political beliefs. Despite the importance of the economic relationship, the political differences between the two states remained. Rhodesia used border patrols and planted mines along its border with Zambia to deal with African liberation movements including the Zimbabwe African National Liberation Army (ZANLA) and Zimbabwe People’s Revolutionary Army (ZIPRA). It also used complex intelligence and spy networks to keep track of Zambia’s military installations and economic activities. This was to counteract hostile military and economic plans against the former. The liberation struggle intensified in December 1972 within Rhodesia. At the same time, Kaunda had established a one-party state in Zambia, with state repression of the banned opposition. Kaunda defended this move, which was motivated by internal politics, on the grounds that Zambia was at war with foreign aggressors. This led to his professing a more Rhodesia responded by launching a blockade of the border with Zambia in 1973 On 7 January 1973, Smith announced on television that the Victoria Falls, Chirundu and Kariba border posts were to be closed until assurances were made by Zambia that it would stop supporting ZIPRA and ZANLA. Smith also increased military operations along the border. At that time, a significant proportion of Zambia’s transport links still passed through Rhodesia, and so bemoaned the border blockade as a declaration of economic warfare. However, a Rhodesia government spokesperson also highlighted that despite the ‘border closure’, Zambia was nevertheless still allowed to transport its copper to ports in South Africa and Mozambique through Southern Rhodesia. The border was only ‘re-opened’ in 1980 when Zimbabwe became independent. While independent Zambia sought to oppose its neighbour politically, it could not do so without suffering a substantial loss of economic and transport links it needed for survival. Southern Rhodesia took advantage of this situation to implement various economic and diplomatic measures to maintain its lucrative market of agricultural and manufactured goods in Zambia. This was despite Zambia harbouring both ZIPRA and ZANLA forces, which launched their liberation struggle from Zambian military bases. The two countries engaged in cautiously cooperative economic and business relations until the outright border blockade in January 1973, as the Zimbabwean liberation struggle intensified. Photo credit: Wikicommons used with permission CC BY-SA 4.0 Teverayi Muguti is a postdoctoral fellow at the History Department, Stellenbosch University, South Africa. Sandra Swart is Departmental Chair and Professor of History, Stellenbosch University, South Africa, and author of The Lion’s Historian – Africa’s Animal Past.
LOS ANGELES (AP) — Defending national champion South Carolina women defeated by UCLA 77-62 for their first loss since the 2023 Final Four.Bundesliga: Kane’s hat-trick sends Bayern eight points clear
TikTok's future in the U.S. appeared uncertain on Friday after a federal appeals court rejected a legal challenge to a law that requires the social media platform to cut ties with its China-based parent company or be banned by mid-January. A panel of three judges on The U.S. Court of Appeals for the District of Columbia Circuit ruled unanimously that the law withstood constitutional scrutiny, rebuffing arguments from the two companies that the statute violated their rights and the rights of TikTok users in the U.S. The government has said it wants ByteDance to divest its stakes in TikTok. But if it doesn't and the platform goes away, it would have a seismic impact on the lives of content creators who rely on the platform for income as well as users who use it for entertainment and connection. Here are some details on the ruling and what could happen next: What does the ruling say? In their lawsuit, TikTok and ByteDance, which is also a plaintiff in the case, had challenged the law on various fronts, arguing in part that the statute ran afoul of the First Amendment and was an unconstitutional bill of attainder that unfairly targeted the two companies. But the court sided with attorneys for the Justice Department who said that the government was attempting to address national security concerns and the way in which it chose to do so did not violate the constitution. The Justice Department has argued in court that TikTok poses a national security risk due to its connections to China. Officials say that Chinese authorities can compel ByteDance to hand over information on TikTok's U.S. patrons or use the platform to spread, or suppress, information. However, the U.S. hasn't publicly provided examples of that happening. The appeals court ruling, written by Judge Douglas Ginsburg, said the law was “carefully crafted to deal only with control by a foreign adversary." The judges also rejected the claim that the statute was an unlawful bill of attainder or a taking of property in violation of the Fifth Amendment. Furthermore, Ginsburg wrote the law did not violate the First Amendment because the government is not looking to “suppress content or require a certain mix of content” on TikTok. What happens next? TikTok and ByteDance are expected to appeal the case to the Supreme Court, but it's unclear whether the court will take up the case. TikTok indicated in a statement on Friday the two companies are preparing to take their case to high court, saying the Supreme Court has “an established historical record of protecting Americans’ right to free speech." "We expect they will do just that on this important constitutional issue,” a company spokesperson said. Alan Morrison, a professor at The George Washington University Law School, said he expects the Supreme Court to take up the case because of the novelty of the issues raised in the lawsuit. If that happens, attorneys for the two companies still have to convince the court to grant them an emergency stay that will prevent the government from enforcing the Jan. 19 divestiture deadline stipulated in the law, Morrison said. Such a move could drag out the process until the Justices make a ruling. Tiffany Cianci, a TikTok content creator who has supported the platform, said she was not shocked about the outcome of the court's ruling on Friday because lower courts typically defer to the executive branch on these types of cases. She believes the company will have a stronger case at the Supreme Court. “I believe that the next stages are more likely to produce a victory for TikTokers and for TikTok as a whole,” Cianci said. What about Trump? Another wild card is President-elect Donald Trump, who tried to ban TikTok during his first term but said during the recent presidential campaign that he is now against such action . The Trump transition team has not offered details on how Trump plans to carry out his pledge to “save TikTok." But spokeswoman Karoline Leavitt said in a statement last month that he plans to “deliver” on his campaign promises. After Trump takes office on Jan. 20th, it would fall on his Justice Department to enforce the law and punish any potential violators. Penalties would apply to any app stores that would violate a prohibition on TikTok and to internet hosting services which would be barred from supporting it. Some have speculated that Trump could ask his Justice Department to abstain from enforcing the law. But tech companies like Apple and Google, which offer TikTok's app on their app stores, would then have to trust that the administration would not come after them for any violations. Craig Singleton, senior director of the China program at the Foundation for Defense of Democracies, said enforcement discretion — or executive orders — can not override existing law, leaving Trump with “limited room for unilateral action." There are other things Trump could potentially do. It's possible he could invoke provisions of the law that allow the president to determine whether a sale or a similar transaction frees TikTok from “foreign adversary” control. Another option is to urge Congress to repeal the law. But that too would require support from congressional Republicans who have overwhelmingly supported the prospect of getting TikTok out of the hands of a Chinese company. In a statement issued Friday, Republican Rep. John Moolenaar of Michigan, chairman of the House Select Committee on China, said he was “optimistic that President Trump will facilitate an American takeover of TikTok” and allow its continued use in the United States. Is anyone trying to buy TikTok? ByteDance has said it won't sell TikTok . And even if it wanted to, a sale of the proprietary algorithm that powers TikTok is likely to get blocked under Chinese export controls that the country issued in 2020. That means if TikTok is sold without the algorithm, its likely that the buyer would only purchase a shell of the platform that doesn't contain the technology that made the app a cultural powerhouse. Still, some investors, including Trump’s former Treasury Secretary Steven Mnuchin and billionaire Frank McCourt, have expressed interest in buying it. This week, a spokesperson for McCourt’s Project Liberty initiative, which aims to protect online privacy, said participants in their bid have made informal commitments of more than $20 billion in capital. The spokesperson did not disclose the identity of the participants. Haleluya Hadero, The Associated Press
Wall Street hits records despite tariff talkLebanon said Israeli strikes Thursday on the country's east and south killed 52 people, as raids also hit south Beirut and Hezbollah claimed its deepest attack on Israel in over a year. More than 11 months of cross-border fire between Israel and Hezbollah over the Gaza conflict escalated into all-out war in September, with Israel conducting an extensive bombing campaign, primarily targeting Hezbollah strongholds, and sending ground troops into southern Lebanon. "Israeli enemy strikes that targeted the Baalbek district" in east Lebanon's Bekaa Valley left "40 dead and 52 wounded", a health ministry statement said, listing tolls for 10 different locations. Lebanon's official National News Agency (NNA) said a couple and their four children were killed in a strike on a house in the village of Maqneh, while another couple and their young daughter were among 11 people killed in a raid on nearby Nabha. The ministry also reported "seven dead and 24 wounded" in "Israeli enemy strikes" on south Lebanon's Nabatiyeh district, and "five dead and 26 wounded" in strikes elsewhere in south Lebanon. In Israel, first responders said a man was killed after rocket fire from Lebanon hit the Galilee region in the country's north. In Beirut's southern suburbs, the NNA reported at least 12 strikes throughout Thursday, after relative calm while US envoy Amos Hochstein visited earlier this week, seeking to broker an end to the Israel-Hezbollah war. Israeli army spokesman Avichay Adraee on social media platform X issued several rounds of evacuation warnings for Beirut's southern suburbs, as well as areas in and around the southern coastal city of Tyre, but none for east Lebanon. AFPTV footage showed columns of smoke rising from the southern suburbs, usually a densely populated residential district but now largely emptied. Adraee said on X that the Israeli military "targeted a weapons depot, a command headquarters and terrorist infrastructure" belonging to Hezbollah in south Beirut. Amid a series of attack claims, Hezbollah said its fighters targeted "the Hatzor air base" near Israel's southern city of Ashdod, around 150 kilometres (90 miles) from Lebanon's southern border, "with a missile salvo" -- its deepest target in more than a year of hostilities. In 10 separate statements, Iran-backed Hezbollah said its fighters also targeted Israeli troops in and near the south Lebanon town of Khiam, including with artillery, rockets and drones. The NNA said "the enemy army" was "blowing up homes and residential buildings during its incursion into the town". Lebanon's official news agency and Hezbollah have reported fighting and air strikes in the Khiam area ever since Israeli ground troops first entered Lebanon on September 30. Earlier Thursday, United Nations special coordinator for Lebanon Jeanine Hennis-Plasschaert visited Baalbek's UNESCO-listed archaeological area, after the UN's cultural body this week granted more than 30 heritage sites in Lebanon "provisional enhanced protection" amid the war. Lebanon's health ministry said Thursday that at least 3,583 people had been killed in the violence since October 2023. Most of the deaths have been since September this year. The Israeli military said Wednesday that three soldiers were killed in south Lebanon, bringing to 52 the number killed in Lebanon since the start of ground operations. bur-lg/giv Get any of our free email newsletters — news headlines, sports, arts & entertainment, state legislature, CFD news, and more.