US sanctions the founder of Georgia's ruling political partyJosh Hoover passes TCU to rout of Louisiana in New Mexico Bowl
Final Fantasy 14 for mobile will go back to A Realm Reborn for a WoW Classic-like experiencePolice: 11 Chicago Area Teens Used Dating Apps to Lure Men and Beat Them for 'Social Media Trend'
SAN FRANCISCO (AP) — Apple is pumping more artificial intelligence into the latest iPhones during the holiday shopping season with a free software update that includes a feature that enables users to create customized emojis within a matter of seconds. The Wednesday release of the iPhone's upgraded operating system, iOS 18.2, extends Apple's expansion into AI months after rivals such as Samsung and Google began implanting the revolutionary technology on their devices. The update builds upon another one that came out in late October to usher in the AI era for Apple and the iPhone, as well as for the iPad and Mac. Javascript is required for you to be able to read premium content. Please enable it in your browser settings.
MIAMI (AP) — Jimmy Butler will not play in the final two games of Miami's ongoing road trip while recovering from illness, the team said Friday. That means Butler will not play Saturday at Atlanta or Sunday at Houston. The earliest he could play again is Wednesday at home against New Orleans. Butler hasn't played since the first quarter of Miami's Dec. 20 game against Oklahoma City, when he twisted an ankle, left the game and then was ruled out because of illness. Miami has played three games since without Butler, two because of the illness and then Thursday's win in Orlando with him back in Miami conditioning for a return. He is not with the team on the road trip. The Heat said Thursday that they are not going to trade Butler, that announcement coming after ESPN, citing sources, said the six-time All-Star would prefer to be moved before the trade deadline on Feb. 6. Butler has not publicly expressed any desire to be traded. He is averaging 18.5 points, 5.8 rebounds and 4.9 assists this season. AP NBA: https://apnews.com/hub/NBA
NoneChina has unveiled its first next-generation amphibious assault ship, the Type 076, in a significant step toward enhancing its naval power and global influence. The People’s Liberation Army Navy (PLAN) announced the ship’s launch during a ceremony on Friday at a Shanghai shipyard. Named Sichuan after the southwestern province, the ship is described as a “key asset” for advancing the Navy’s transformation and bolstering its long-range operational capabilities. This development marks another milestone in China’s rapid naval expansion as it strives to challenge the military dominance of the United States. Boasting a full-load displacement exceeding 40,000 tons, the Sichuan stands among the world’s largest amphibious assault ships. It features cutting-edge technology, including an electromagnetic catapult system, which allows it to carry fixed-wing aircraft in addition to helicopters and amphibious equipment. The PLAN stated that the system would enable the launch of larger, heavier aircraft equipped with more fuel and weaponry, extending the vessel’s operational range and combat capabilities. Currently, only one other vessel, the US Navy’s USS Gerald R. Ford, employs an electromagnetic catapult system. China’s latest aircraft carrier, the Fujian, which is undergoing sea trials, also integrates this advanced system. While the United States Navy’s amphibious assault ships utilise the F-35B fighter jet, the PLAN may deploy fixed-wing aircraft similar to those on the Fujian. However, analysts suggest that the Type 076 could serve as a significant platform for unmanned systems. A report from the Center for Strategic and International Studies (CSIS) indicates that the ship may accommodate advanced drones, such as the GJ-11 stealth combat drone and the WZ-7 reconnaissance drone. Its vast size also allows for more helicopters, amphibious landing craft, and the deployment of over 1,000 marines, further enhancing its versatility. Military analyst Carl Schuster noted that the Type 076 signals China’s commitment to expeditionary and amphibious warfare. “It demonstrates China’s growing maritime power projection capability at a time when the US Navy’s commitment and capability for such missions have significantly diminished,” he stated. ALSO READ TOP STORIES FROM NIGERIAN TRIBUNE
MIAMI GARDENS, Fla. (AP) — The Miami Dolphins were ready to deal veteran defensive tackle Calais Campbell to the Baltimore Ravens ahead of the Nov. 5 trade deadline until Mike McDaniel stepped in. “I may or may not have thrown an adult temper tantrum,” Miami's coach said, confirming the news first reported by NFL Network Sunday morning. The Dolphins were 2-6 and had lost three straight at that point. They'd played four uninspired games without their starting quarterback, going 1-3 after Tua Tagovailoa went on injured reserve on Sept. 17 with a concussion. Campbell would have had a chance to rejoin the contending Ravens, and Miami would have received a 2026 fifth-round pick in return, NFL Network reported. McDaniel argued that Campbell was too valuable to lose. “I was happy that they brought me into the conversations," Campbell said after Miami's 34-15 win over the New England Patriots . “They didn't have to say anything to me at all. We had a really good conversation about what we think about this team, where we are. We felt like we had a good shot to get back into the fight.” Added McDaniel: “I think it wasn’t like it was (GM) Chris (Grier) versus me. ... That’s the tricky thing about Chris’ job is he has to look long-term and short-term at the same time, what’s the best for the organization.” Campbell, a 17-year veteran, signed with the Dolphins after playing for Atlanta last season. Players and coaches have praised the 38-year-old's contributions on the field and in the locker room. “There’s no one’s game I’ve come to respect more than Calais up front on the D-line,” defensive tackle Zach Sieler said, “being with him this year and just the energy, the attitude and the mindset he brings every week. It can’t be matched, and that’s the reason why he is who he is today and doing what he’s doing at 17 years.” Campbell leads the team with four sacks. With back-to-back sacks in Weeks 10 and 11, he became the eighth player 38 or older to record sacks in consecutive games since the 1970 merger. He also has nine tackles for loss, giving him at least five tackles for loss in 15 of his 17 seasons. He played for Baltimore from 2020-2022, totaling 11 sacks and 113 tackles. “I think he means a great deal to not only the defensive line room, but the entire defense as well as the entire team,” McDaniel said earlier this week. “It’s rare for a guy to get here when he did, and then be voted, with such conviction, captain. I think the way that he operates to be a pro, I think has had a substantial impact on a lot of players that hadn’t been fortunate enough to be around someone with sustained success like he’s had.” The Dolphins have won three straight games since the deadline. Miami's defense held the Patriots scoreless until the fourth quarter on Sunday. Campbell broke down the team's pregame huddle as he has done before most games this season. He was also seen coaching up rookie linebacker Chop Robinson, who is always seeking pointers from the six-time Pro Bowler. “My job is to speak on behalf of what’s the best thing for the 2024 Dolphins,” McDaniel said. “I’m just fortunate to work in an organization where myself and the GM can be transparent and work together. “And he didn’t want to see any more adult temper tantrums.” AP NFL: https://apnews.com/hub/NFLInside the wild YOLO nights at the drug-fuelled bars of the exotic 'new Bali' - where every traveller's worst nightmare is now unfolding as six people die after drinking 'contaminated' alcohol.. and the death toll is expected to soar Two Aussie mates died after drinking 'contaminated alcohol' Holly Bowles and Bianca Jones were travelling together Region is a known party hotspot and a 'step back in time' READ: Two Aussie teens who drank poisoned cocktails in Laos are identified By WAYNE FLOWER, MELBOURNE CORRESPONDENT Published: 21:54, 24 November 2024 | Updated: 22:02, 24 November 2024 e-mail View comments Young travellers visiting the Vientiane Province of Laos do so with danger at the front of their minds. Now those risks have proved deadly. It's the new must-go destination for those in the know - but also where two Melbourne teens died after being poisoned by methanol-laced drinks. Two other young Danes, a UK lawyer and a US man have also been killed in the tragic mass poisoning, with another eight still believed to be in hospital. While the town of Vang Vieng has been a go-to spot for adventurers keen on tubing and kayaking on the Nam Song River, it has also become the place to be for those who like to party. Until 2012, the river itself was lined with bars selling Beer Lao and Lao-Lao, and equipped with rope swings, zip lines, and large decks for socialising. Other activities in the region include trekking and rock climbing in the limestone mountains. There are also numerous caves, such as Tham Phu Kham or the Tham Non and Tham Jang. But in recent years, it has become a haven for young backpackers keen on getting high on life - and often Class A drugs - as quickly and as cheaply as possible. Veteran travellers ominously warn others to steer clear of the local alcohol, and stick to imported booze: 'Either you want to live - or you don't mind dying early.' International travellers party hard at one of Vang Vieng's more popular bars Bianca Jones, 19, from Melbourne, (left) was the fourth person to die following the horrific incident. Her schoolfriend Holly Bowles, also 19, (right) remains on life support Vang Vieng is beloved by kayakers who paddle down the Nam Song River While Bali has long been the destination of choice for young Aussies, a recent spate of highly public incidents involving wayward partying there helped Laos cement its position as a party capital. The main street of Vang Vieng is lined with guest houses, bars, restaurants, internet cafes and tour agencies. Melbourne teenagers Holly Bowles and Bianca Jones, both aged 19, had been enjoying the trip of their young lives there when tragedy struck them down. Ms Jones died surrounded by loved ones on Thursday. Her best friend remains in critical condition on life support. The pair had been staying at Nana Backpackers Hostel in Vang Vieng where they drank mixed spirits at the bar the night before. WhatsApp messages have since revealed that the pair then left the hostel and travelled 950m to the beachfront Jaidee Bar. The infamous party bar, which offers free spirits, also has a hard copy 'drug menu', offering patrons opium, ecstasy and ketamine. Situated within the 'Golden Triangle', the area is very hard for the Laotian government to police due to its remoteness, terrain, and a lack of international cooperation. Corruption in Laos and neighbouring countries also serves to make enforcement of anti-drug production and trafficking laws difficult. Though Laos hasn't executed anyone since 1989, it still retains the death penalty in its laws and has about 315 people on death row. The high supply of drugs in the region sees methamphetamine pills sold for less than 25 cents, which is cheaper than food, water, or beer. Foreign tourists float on tubes in a river in Vang Vieng Holly Bowles (left) and best mate Bianca Jones (right) were on the trip of a lifetime when they consumed something that left them critically ill. Ms Jones sadly died on Thursday UK lawyer Simone White, 28, also died in the mass poisoning. She specialised in technology and intellectual property at the London office of an American law firm Danish victims Anne-Sofie Orkild Coyman, 20, (left) and Freja Vennervald Sorensen, 21, (right) Its lawless nature provides certain appeal to young Aussies raised on endless rules and regulations. Locals described Jaidee Bar as a 'dangerous' place with links to organised crime and the Asian mafia. The hard copy menu reportedly offered there offers tourists hardcore drugs for the equivalent of about $28 a gram. Daily Mail Australia does not suggest that either Ms Bowles or Ms Jones were involved in any drug taking activity of any kind. Testing revealed their ill health was caused by methanol poisoning. While Laos once appealed to travellers for its peace and quiet, much has changed over the past decade with an influx of young party goers from across the globe. But all that could be about to change with the tragic deaths of six people, including two Danish women Anne-Sofie Orkild Coyman, 20, and Freja Vennervald Sorensen, 21, American man James Louis Hutson, 57, and British woman Simone White, 28. Nana Backpackers Hostel where two Australian girls stayed before becoming critically ill Jaidee Bar has come under scrutiny after several tourists died after partying there Australian Foreign Minister Penny Wong said drink spiking and methanol poisoning were far too common in many parts of the world and implored parents and young travellers to discuss the risks. 'Please inform yourselves, please let's work together to ensure this tragedy doesn't happen again,' she said. On Thursday evening, Pearl Jam singer Eddie Vedder paid tribute to the teenagers at his show in Sydney, describing the situation as 'senseless'. 'The one young woman, Bianca Jones, she's passed. Her friend Holly Bowles is hanging in and wish her the best and we're thinking about her parents,' he said. Methanol is an odourless, colourless liquid used in products such as paint stripper, insecticide and dyes. The Australians were found unresponsive by staff at the Nana Backpacker Hostel where they were staying with a group of mates. Australian Embassy officials arrived at the hostel on Monday, with management quick to deflect any of the blame from its premises. The hostel’s manager reportedly claimed police came to inspect their bar after the incident but found the alcohol it served was 'very normal'. An investigation into where those impacted by the poisoning partied that night remains in full swing. Initial reports suggested 'vodka' served up at a local establishment may have been the cause. But many claim it is usually the local jungle hooch 'moonshine' that is consumed with caution. The local rice alcohol is described as 'rocket fuel' which is notorious for getting people drunk quickly and on the cheap. Anyone who has spent time in the region says going there on a bargain basement budget is a recipe for disaster. 'Doesn't matter what the price is. You purchase imported or you don't engage at all,' one person warned on a social media page focused on backpacking in the region. 'Either you want to live - or you don't mind dying early.' Many bars in the area jostling for punters offer free drinks in an effort to get tourists inside. The free drinks often flow for hours at a time, with many suspicious about how it can afford to be done. The Jaidee Bar in Van Vieng has been a must visit location for backpackers since 2002 Drugs are freely available on the streets of Vang Vieng Some bars are known to serve up buckets of cheap booze to those game enough to chug it down. Unscrupulous bar owners are believed to sell their own concoctions disguised in Jagermeister or Absolut Vodka bottles. 'It's insane. I've been here running bars clubs and parties since 2011 and this nonsense of giving out free drinks has been an ongoing battle,' one bar owner wrote. 'Then when something like this happens, it ruins everyone's reputation but we all know the root cause of the problem.' Another bar owner committed to contacting every alcohol supplier in the region in hope of weeding out whatever, or whoever, sparked the incident. Some familiar with the region doubt local police will ever get to the bottom of the cause. 'The police work hand-in-hand with the bars in Vang Vieng that serve a wide range of dangerous drugs,' one claimed. 'Methanol is in all the drugs too. 'It’s a big problem in Laos, [but] authorities have been known to arrest people when they’re leaving because of "defamation" to these businesses.' A woman who claimed to have stayed at the hostel where the two Australians were found warned the entire region was swimming in dodgy booze. 'I can confirm it’s the entire city, not just that hostel,' she said. 'I drank the free drinks (they don’t give shots). 'T he people went to another bar after leaving the hostel which if you know anything about that place ... It’s more than drinking.' Thailand Crime Melbourne Share or comment on this article: Inside the wild YOLO nights at the drug-fuelled bars of the exotic 'new Bali' - where every traveller's worst nightmare is now unfolding as six people die after drinking 'contaminated' alcohol.. and the death toll is expected to soar e-mail Add commentSEI Expands Horizons with New Personalized SMA Strategies
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OTTAWA - Incoming U.S. president Donald Trump is brushing off Ontario’s threat to restrict electricity exports in retaliation for sweeping tariffs on Canadian goods, as the province floats the idea of effectively barring sales of American alcohol. On Wednesday, Premier Doug Ford said Ontario is contemplating restricting electricity exports to Michigan, New York state and Minnesota if Trump follows through on a threat to impose a 25 per cent tariff on imports from Canada. “That’s okay if he that does that. That’s fine,” Trump told American network CNBC when asked Thursday about Ford’s remarks on the floor of the New York Stock Exchange. “The United States is subsidizing Canada and we shouldn’t have to do that,” Trump added. “And we have a great relationship. I have so many friends in Canada, but we shouldn’t have to subsidize a country,” he said, claiming this amounts to more than US$100 annually in unspecified subsidies. Meanwhile, an official in the Ford government says it’s considering restricting the Liquor Control Board of Ontario from buying American-made alcohol. The province says the Crown agency is the largest purchaser of alcohol in the world. The province also says it could restrict exports of Canadian critical minerals required for electric-vehicle batteries, and bar American companies from provincial procurement. Ford doubled down Thursday on the idea of cutting off energy exports. The province says that in 2023, Ontario exported enough energy to power 1.5 million homes in those three states. “It’s a last resort,” Ford said. “We’re sending a message to the U.S. (that if) you come and attack Ontario, you attack livelihoods of people in Ontario and Canadians, we are going to use every tool in our tool box to defend Ontarians and Canadians. Let’s hope it never comes to that.” Ontario Energy Minister Stephen Lecce said the province would rather have co-operation with the U.S., but has mechanisms to “end power sale into the U.S. market” the day Trump takes office on Jan. 20. Alberta Premier Danielle Smith ruled out following suit. “Under no circumstances will Alberta agree to cut off oil and gas exports,” she said. “Our approach is one of diplomacy, not threats.” Michael Sabia, president and CEO of Hydro-Québec, said “it’s not our current intention” to cut off Quebec’s exports to Massachusetts or New York state, but he conceded it might be possible. “Our intention is to respect those contracts, both because they’re legally binding, but also because it’s part of, in our view, a sound relationship with the United States,” he said. “It’s a questionable instrument to use in a trade conflict.” Manitoba Premier Wab Kinew would not directly say whether Manitoba would threaten to withhold hydroelectric exports. “We are preparing our list and starting to think through what those options should look like,” he said. “I’m not going to make specific news today about items that we’re looking at.” Kinew added that some premiers felt retaliatory measures wouldn’t work in a call Trudeau held Wednesday. Newfoundland and Labrador Premier Andrew Furey said “we have no interest in stopping” the export of energy to the U.S., adding that a trade war would hurt both countries. “We hope it is just bluster; we’re preparing as if it is not,” he said. Canada supplies more oil to the U.S. than any other country. About 60 per cent of U.S. crude oil imports are from Canada, and 85 per cent of U.S. electricity imports as well. Canada sold $170 billion worth of energy products last year to the U.S. It also has 34 critical minerals and metals the Pentagon is eager for. Trump has threatened to impose a 25 per cent tax on all products entering the United States from Canada and Mexico unless they stem the flow of migrants and drugs. Canadian officials have said it is unfair to lump Canada in with Mexico. U.S. customs agents seized 43 pounds of fentanyl at the Canadian border last fiscal year, compared with 21,100 pounds at the Mexican border. Canada since has promised more border security spending to address Trump’s border concerns. Ford said that will include more border and police officers, as well as drones and sniffer dogs. This report by The Canadian Press was first published Dec. 12, 2024. — With files from The Associated Press, Liam Casey in Toronto, Lisa Johnson in Edmonton and Steve Lambert in Winnipeg. Note to readers: This is a corrected story. A previous version stated that Ontario exported enough energy to power 1.5 million homes in three states in 2013.