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sports track Over the holiday season, we're republishing some of the best articles from Nintendo Life writers and contributors as part of our Best of 2024 series. Enjoy! Soapbox features enable our individual writers and contributors to voice their opinions on hot topics and random stuff they've been chewing over. Today, Ollie reflects on just some of the eventful episodes from his days working in video game retail... When news hit that GAME, the UK’s last remaining video game retailer (not counting the many wonderful independent stores left standing), would be bringing an end to trade-ins and pre-owned products from 16th February 2024, I felt a potent mix of thoughts and emotions. On one hand, I couldn’t quite comprehend why the firm would come to such a decision; I worked there for the best part of a decade, and three key initiatives were consistently promoted to both staff and customers: reward cards, pre-orders, and trade-ins. For the latter, 100% of the money made from pre-owned sales went directly into GAME’s pockets, whereas new games would yield a comparatively much smaller profit. You could see why the firm wanted to push trade-ins. But on the flip side, when you consider the rapidly rising popularity of digital games in conjunction with GAME’s decision to turn the vast majority of its standalone retail spaces into Sports Direct concession stores, it does make sense that the company would want to bring an end to trade-ins. According to GAME’s filings for the 12 months up to April 29th, 2023 , the gross transactional value (GTV - full retail value excluding VAT, savings schemes, and publisher deductions) for pre-owned products totalled 16,478. This is down from 25,894 over the same period the previous year, so there’s no denying that the demand for trade-ins and pre-owned products is decreasing rapidly. With all that said, I will miss trade-ins when the practice eventually goes the way of the dodo in the coming months. As a customer, it’s a great way to knock a bit of money off new releases by getting rid of a few older titles, and to pick up secondhand bargains for older games. As an ex-employee, however, dealing with trade-ins for ten years (give or take) has resulted in a bevy of memories both good and bad, and I’d like to share just a few of them with you, dear reader. So make yourselves comfortable as we take a trip into the not-too-distant past and see just what GAME employees have had to put up with... That One Time We Had *All* The Skylanders Remember Skylanders ? Oh boy, I sure do. I’ve practically had nightmares about them. As someone who was never particularly into the whole toys-to-life genre (I rarely even buy amiibo unless it's for a series that I’m really keen on), I wasn’t really clued up on the characters beyond that totally botched version of Spyro . Disney Infinity wasn’t so bad because I instantly recognised a lot of characters. But with Skylanders, I’m truly sorry, but I couldn’t tell you the difference between Boomer, Chill, Countdown, Cynder, or any of them, and I frankly wasn’t paid enough to swot up. This wasn’t an issue for the most part: people would pick what they wanted from the shelves, make the transaction, and be on their way. The problems arose when folks wanted to trade them in. It doesn’t matter what it was — whether a bunch of handheld consoles, accessories, games, or figures — when a customer came walking into the store hauling a gigantic cardboard box with an expectant grin on their face, my heart sank. 99% of the time, it meant they had a heap of bits and bobs to trade and I would have to drop whatever I was doing and spend the next hour sorting it all out. During the height of the toys-to-life craze, a woman came into the store with her two sons, and all three were carrying massive boxes. I thought they’d be full of games, which would have been fine, but when they got to the counter and opened them, Skylanders. Three boxes full to the brim with Skylanders. Our inventory process for this was to consult a binder that contained a full list of every Skylander, including their names, their till code, and a small, slightly blurry image of the figure. I spent the better part of three hours grabbing one figure at a time, carefully consulting the binder to match the figure with its blurry image, inputting the code, and moving on to the next one. And the worst part? The poor woman and her sons stayed in the store the entire time and when it came to tallying up, I don’t think we even broke £50. I felt terrible knowing that we were offering a fraction of what she’d get on eBay, but she didn’t care. Fair enough, then. By the end of the day, I was ready to launch the figures into the ocean. There aren’t many instances where I’m glad to see a game series end, but if Skylanders ever comes back, I’m off to Mars. That One Time I Got Attacked For a decade, I met many, many interesting characters working at GAME. Thankfully, the vast majority of them were friendly, pleasant people who I was honoured to serve. The remaining were either rude, dismissive, angry, deceitful, or violent. Well... There’s only been one truly violent customer. During my time at GAME, we not only dealt with video games, hardware, and accessories but also secondhand mobile devices. We were trying to muscle in on CEX’s territory and, to be fair, we didn’t do a bad job at it. We stocked a good range of mobiles, and we were meticulous when it came to ensuring they were of good, saleable quality. One afternoon, I was taking my lunch in the upstairs office when a colleague came up to inform me that a customer had wanted to bring his mobile in and wasn’t handling the rejection very well due to the device's lack of quality. I was a Senior Sales Assistant so I was occasionally left in charge of the store. As such, whether we took this phone in was ultimately down to me. I followed my colleague downstairs and glanced at the customer and the phone in question. It was a Blackberry (gosh, remember those ?) and it was in terrible condition. The SIM card tray was battered beyond repair, the screen was scratched to hell, and there was no charger or accompanying box. Naturally, I said, 'No.' After a bit of back and forth with the customer, I put my foot down and said, “I’m sorry, but there’s no way we’re taking this phone.” Immediately, he launched into a rage, trying to grab me over the counter, missing, and proceeding to pick up whatever he could find to hurl at me, all the while shouting expletives. Eventually, he picked up a particularly heavy charity box and aimed for my head. I raised my arm to block my face and the box caught my elbow, resulting in a nasty cut. The customer lumbered out of the store, running his hands across the shelves to knock off as much as he could on his way. We called the police, showcased the CCTV footage, and that was that. I didn’t need any medical attention, but I was quite shaken up. The guy had the gall to come back days later to look at our mobile phone stock! He was soon arrested and went to prison. That One Time Those Countless Times I Refused Scratched 360 Discs Ah, the beloved Xbox 360. It was such a great console, but my goodness, did it have some problems. The one that everyone is more or less aware of is the ‘Red Ring of Death’; a fault in which three of the red lights encircling the power button would light up signifying General Hardware Failure. Less infamous, however, was the 360's other issue, which had to do with the console being moved while it was turned on (and sometimes even when it was stationary); the apparatus inside could cut a perfect circular scratch into the spinning disc, often rendering it completely unsalvageable. That didn’t stop people trying to trade them in, though. All the bloody time . It was always parents, too, who would bring in Little Timmy’s game collection and apparently weren’t made aware that they were mostly useless. So, of course, they’d argue, even though the evidence was staring them right in the face. “We were told they all work fine.” Well yes, I’m sure an eight-year-old looking to get a new game is being completely honest, right? We did have a little machine that would buff up scratched game discs, and it often worked wonders, but when you've got one of those circular scratches from the 360, pretty much nothing's going to solve it. Hmm... Maybe Microsoft should go all-digital , after all? Nah. That One Time I Got A GBA SP For Free In addition to regular customers looking to trade in their personal belongings, we'd often get owners of independent game stores coming in to shore off some of their stock via trade-in. It was a perfectly legitimate way for them to get rid of games or accessories that weren't shifting and swap them for products that they could sell. So I was always happy to help out. One chap came in quite frequently — so much so that his daughter wound up getting a job at the store and proved to be one of the most efficient team members — and we built up quite a friendship over the years, right up until my GAME branch closed in 2017. He'd often come in with boxes to trade, but it was never a hassle; he was always on top of what they should be worth, so I never felt our time was being wasted. One day, he came into the store in the run-up to Christmas and simply handed me a Game Boy Advance SP in perfect condition with an accompanying charger. "You know we don't take these for trade-in anymore, right?" I asked. "I know. It's yours," he said. He knew that having got rid of my GBA many years prior, I had always wanted to get another one. As a thank you for dealing with him for so long, he took a near-mint SP from his own stock and gifted it to me, no questions asked. I wasn't quite sure what to say. I know the consoles weren't worth a great deal of money — at least they weren't at the time! — but for him to remember that I wanted one in the first place was enough to nearly bring a tear to my eye. I'll never forget him, and I hope his own store is flourishing. So that's it! Hopefully, you've had as much fun reading these tales as I had writing about them. It's been a fair few years since I worked at GAME and it's safe to say that the company has changed quite a bit in the time since. Despite its issues, I'll always remember my time there fondly — the ups, the downs, the laughs, the frustrations. Mostly, I'll remember my colleagues, though; folks who, despite what the internet might have you believe, loved video games through and through. Even if they couldn't name all the Skylanders.Princess Beatrice's husband appeared to be getting into the Christmas spirit as he appeared to purchase a real festive Christmas tree for his family at the weekend. It comes as Princess Beatrice and her husband will welcome their new baby next year , as the Princess of York continues her second pregnancy. Uploading a festive story to Instagram , Edoardo Mapelli Mozzi shared an image with over 150K followers which consisted of multiple lines of Christmas trees in a row. The property developer had given fans a glimpse into his Saturday morning and an early visit to what looked like a garden centre. While Edoardo didn’t reveal if he managed to get the perfect Christmas tree , the timing - being the first weekend of December, meant he could have had a good selection to choose from. His Instagram story featured a frosty scene, complete with a row of lush green trees to his right and a sign for "Ornamental trees" to his left. Edoardo and Beatrice share a three-year-old daughter together, Sienna Elizabeth Mapelli Mozzi , and Edoardo is also the father to his eight-year-old son Christopher , affectionately known as 'Wolfie'. The stepson of Beatrice's mother is talented architect, Dara Huang, former fiancé of Edoardo . Dara has spoken warmly about their co-parenting arrangement, previously telling Harper's Bazaar: "Wolfie has had two sets of parents trying to help him on both sides, and I just think 'The more, the merrier'. I feel lucky to have such positive people around him, who really embrace him." In 2023, Wolfie joined Beatrice at the Princess of Wales' ' Together at Christmas' carol service at Westminster Abbey. The Royal Family traditionally spends Christmas Day at Sandringham and are pictured walking together to the St Mary Magdalene Church service on the estate. King Charles leads the family, accompanied by Queen Camilla and other extended family members. Royal Family members often include the King's other nieces and nephews, including Zara Tindall, Peter Phillips, Princess Beatrice and Princess Eugenie and their families. Meanwhile, Beatrice's mother, The Duchess of York, 65, is well and truly in the festive spirit and like most grandmothers she is ready to spoil her grandchildren this festive season "with sweets, toys and treats". "Grannies exist to spoil their grandchildren, don't they? I'll be stuffing their stockings with sweets, toys and treats. I think I'm as excited as they are," the Duchess told Hello! Sarah - affectionately dubbed Fergie by fans and friends - is grandmother to Princess Beatrice ’s daughter Sienna, three, and stepson Wolfie, eight, as well as Princess Eugenie ’s sons, August, three, and one-year-old Ernest.

UConn coach Dan Hurley told reporters Tuesday that star forward Alex Karaban is out for Wednesday's top-25 matchup against visiting Baylor. Karaban was transported to a hospital in Hawaii last Wednesday after sustaining a head injury during an 85-67 loss to Dayton on the final day of the Maui Invitational. Karaban hit the floor after being fouled on a contested layup with approximately 2 1/2 minutes left in the second half. He was later cleared to fly home with the rest of the team on Thursday. The junior sat out Saturday's 99-45 win over Maryland Eastern Shore, but now he will miss a more important game that pits the No. 25 Huskies (5-3) against the No. 15 Bears (5-2) in the Big 12-Big East Battle. Karaban has been UConn's leading scorer (15.9 ppg), adding 4.1 rebounds and 3.3 assists per game. A starter for each of the Huskies' last two national championship-winning seasons, Karaban owns career averages of 11.7 points, 4.7 rebounds and 1.7 assists per game. Jaylin Stewart drew into the starting lineup in Karaban's place against UMES. --Field Level MediaThetis Lake Park was briefly closed by West Shore RCMP on Tuesday (Dec. 24) after a report was received of a person with a firearm in the area. Visitors were turned away from the park by police from 10.30 a.m., while they investigated. Police on the scene confirmed to Goldstream News Gazette they had been looking for a person with a firearm, and were satisfied there was no threat to the public. The park was open again for visitors after 11 a.m. "The park is reopened now with no public safety concerns," said the RCMP in a social media post. "Enjoy the day everyone and thanks for your patience as we worked to ensure the park was safe."Swiss Olympic snowboarder Sophie Hediger dies in avalanche, aged 26

A huge crocodile that rose to fame with a cameo in hit film Crocodile Dundee has died. Burt died over the weekend, the Crocosaurus Cove reptile aquarium in Darwin, Australia, said. He was at least 90 years old. “Known for his independent nature, Burt was a confirmed bachelor – an attitude he made clear during his earlier years at a crocodile farm,” Crocosaurus Cove wrote in social media posts. The aquarium added: “He wasn’t just a crocodile, he was a force of nature and a reminder of the power and majesty of these incredible creatures. While his personality could be challenging, it was also what made him so memorable and beloved by those who worked with him and the thousands who visited him over the years.” A saltwater crocodile, Burt was estimated to be more than 16 feet long. He was captured in the 1980s in the Reynolds River and became one of the most well-known crocodiles in the world, according to Crocosaurus Cove. The 1986 film stars Paul Hogan as the rugged crocodile hunter Mick Dundee. In the movie, American Sue Charlton, played by actress Linda Kozlowski, goes to fill her canteen in a watering hole when she is attacked by a crocodile before being saved by Dundee. Burt is briefly shown lunging out of the water. But the creature shown in more detail as Dundee saves the day is apparently something else. The Internet Movie Database says the film made a mistake by depicting an American alligator, which has a blunter snout. The Australian aquarium where Burt had lived since 2008 features a Cage of Death which it says is the nation’s only crocodile dive. It said it planned to honour Burt’s legacy with a commemorative sign “celebrating his extraordinary life and the stories and interactions he shared throughout his time at the park”.Cleaning up pet hair can be a challenging task, and a standard vacuum cleaner often isn’t up to the job. To effectively tackle stubborn pet hair, you need a specialised vacuum cleaner designed for the task. In this article, we’ve curated a list of the best vacuum cleaners for pet hair, focusing on key factors like suction power, advanced filtration systems, and ease of use. Whether you own a dog, cat, or any other furry companion, these vacuum cleaners are built to handle the unique demands of pet hair removal. Many models feature attachments for upholstery, hard floors, and carpets, ensuring thorough cleaning throughout your home. With powerful performance and user-friendly designs, these vacuums simplify your cleaning routine, leaving your space spotless and allergen-free. Explore our recommendations to find the ideal vacuum cleaner that meets your needs and makes pet hair removal effortless. 1. Eureka Forbes Quick Clean DX The Eureka Forbes Quick Clean DX is a powerful and efficient vacuum cleaner that is perfect for pet owners. With a high suction power, it can easily pick up pet hair from carpets, upholstery, and hard floors. The compact design and lightweight build make it easy to maneuver around your home. It also comes with a range of attachments for versatile cleaning. Specifications of Eureka Forbes Quick Clean DX Powerful suction Compact and lightweight Versatile attachments Bagless design Washable dust bag 2. AGARO 800-Watt Handheld Vacuum Cleaner The AGARO Handheld Vacuum Cleaner is a durable and reliable option for pet owners. With a powerful 800-watt motor, it can easily pick up pet hair from any surface. The handheld design makes it convenient for quick cleanups, and the durable build ensures long-lasting performance. It also comes with a washable dust bag for easy maintenance. Specifications of AGARO 800-Watt Handheld Vacuum Cleaner 800-watt motor Handheld design Durable build Washable dust bag Crevice tool included 3. INALSA Handheld Vacuum Cleaner The INALSA Handheld Vacuum Cleaner is a powerful and efficient option for pet owners. With a high-capacity dust bag and HEPA filtration, it can effectively capture pet hair and allergens. The powerful suction and versatile attachments make it suitable for all cleaning tasks, from floors to upholstery. It also features a lightweight and ergonomic design for easy handling. Specifications of INALSA Handheld Vacuum Cleaner High-capacity dust bag HEPA filtration Versatile attachments Lightweight and ergonomic design Powerful suction Also read: Eureka Forbes vacuum cleaner: Get effortless cleaning within minutes with these top 10 options 4. AGARO Upright Vacuum Cleaner The AGARO Upright Vacuum Cleaner is a powerful and versatile option for pet owners. With a 1000-watt motor and swivel steering, it can easily maneuver around furniture and tight spaces. The bagless design and washable filter make maintenance hassle-free, and the large dust cup capacity ensures uninterrupted cleaning. Specifications of AGARO Upright Vacuum Cleaner 1000-watt motor Swivel steering Bagless design Washable filter Large dust cup capacity 5. Roboson VC201 Handheld Cordless Vacuum Cleaner The Roboson VC201 Handheld Cordless Vacuum Cleaner is a convenient and portable option for pet owners. With a rechargeable battery and cordless design, it offers freedom of movement and easy storage. The strong suction and washable filter ensure efficient pet hair removal, and the lightweight build makes it suitable for quick cleanups. Specifications of Roboson VC201 Handheld Cordless Vacuum Cleaner Cordless design Rechargeable battery Washable filter Lightweight build High suction power 6. NUUK Allergens BEAMTechTM Ultrasonic Filtration Vacuum Cleaner The NUUK BEAMTechTM Ultrasonic Filtration Vacuum Cleaner is a high-tech and advanced option for pet owners. With ultrasonic filtration and HEPA technology, it can effectively capture and eliminate allergens and pet hair. The intelligent sensor and digital display provide real-time feedback on air quality, making it suitable for allergy sufferers. Specifications of NUUK Allergens BEAMTechTM Ultrasonic Filtration Vacuum Cleaner Ultrasonic filtration HEPA technology Intelligent sensor Digital display Advanced filtration system 7. TEXUM TVC-A50D Portable Vacuum Cleaner The TEXUM TVC-A50D Portable Vacuum Cleaner is a powerful and compact option for pet owners. With a high-speed motor and cyclonic action, it can efficiently pick up pet hair and debris. The portable design and shoulder strap make it easy to carry around, and the washable filter ensures long-lasting performance. Specifications of TEXUM TVC-A50D Portable Vacuum Cleaner High-speed motor Cyclonic action Portable design Shoulder strap Washable filter 8. Lifelong Vacuum Cleaner The Lifelong Vacuum Cleaner is a versatile and reliable option for pet owners. With a powerful suction and multiple attachments, it can tackle pet hair on any surface. The large dust cup capacity and HEPA filtration make maintenance hassle-free, and the lightweight build ensures easy handling. Specifications of Lifelong Vacuum Cleaner Powerful suction Multiple attachments Large dust cup capacity HEPA filtration Lightweight build Also read: DreameBot L10s Pro Ultra heat review: Is this the best robot vacuum cleaner money can buy? Let's find out Top 3 features of best vacuum cleaners for pet hair: Best value for money vacuum cleaner for pet hair: The AGARO 800-Watt Handheld Vacuum Cleaner offers the best value for money, with its powerful motor, durable build, and washable dust bag. It provides efficient pet hair removal at an affordable price, making it a top choice for pet owners on a budget. Also read: Best vacuum cleaner for home: Top 7 picks that are efficient, affordable and perfect for every household Best overall vacuum cleaner for pet hair: The NUUK Allergens BEAMTechTM Ultrasonic Filtration Vacuum Cleaner stands out as the best overall product in the category, with its advanced filtration, intelligent sensor, and real-time air quality feedback. It is perfect for pet owners who prioritize allergen removal and air quality. Factors to keep in mind while choosing the best vacuum cleaner for pet hair: Suction power : Choose a vacuum with strong suction to effectively pick up stubborn pet hair from all surfaces. Filtration system : Opt for models with HEPA filters to trap allergens and ensure cleaner air in your home. Attachments : Look for specialised tools like pet hair brushes, crevice tools, and upholstery attachments for versatile cleaning. Ease of use : Consider lightweight designs with swivel heads and easy manoeuvrability for hassle-free operation. Maintenance : Select a vacuum with washable filters or a bagless design for easier maintenance and cost savings. Noise levels : Pet-friendly vacuums with lower noise levels are ideal to avoid scaring your furry companions. Similar stories for you How to choose the best robot vacuum cleaner: A comparison of Ecovacs and Dreame for your home cleaning needs Best portable vacuum cleaners for home: Top 10 options that are compact, powerful and easy to use Best home appliances: Buying guide for ACs, TVs, washing machines, vacuum cleaners, fans and water purifiers FAQs on best vacuum cleaner for pet hair What is the price range of these vacuum cleaners? The price range of these vacuum cleaners varies from INR 2000 to INR 10000, depending on the brand, features, and specifications. Do these vacuum cleaners come with a warranty? Yes, all the vacuum cleaners mentioned in the article come with a standard manufacturer's warranty, which may vary from 1 to 2 years. Can these vacuum cleaners be used on hardwood floors? Yes, most of the vacuum cleaners mentioned are suitable for use on hardwood floors, with adjustable suction settings and floor attachments. Are these vacuum cleaners suitable for allergy sufferers? Yes, many of the vacuum cleaners feature HEPA filtration and advanced allergen removal technology, making them suitable for allergy sufferers. Disclaimer: At Hindustan Times, we help you stay up-to-date with the latest trends and products. Hindustan Times has an affiliate partnership, so we may get a part of the revenue when you make a purchase. We shall not be liable for any claim under applicable laws, including but not limited to the Consumer Protection Act, 2019, with respect to the products. The products listed in this article are in no particular order of priority.

(The Center Square) – A bill moving through the Illinois General Assembly making it easier to change a person’s name is being criticized for including a loophole for illegal immigrants. The measure would alter Illinois law and not require a person to notify a newspaper following a name change. During a recent Senate Executive Committee hearing, state Sen. Sue Rezin, R-Morris, said a flaw in the legislation could help the criminal element fall through the cracks. “There’s a loophole built into a bill that maybe started off good but potentially is helping people who are here as non-citizens, especially the non-citizens who were caught in my county with almost 6 to 7 pounds of fentanyl which is enough to kill half of Chicago, which is not insignificant,” said Morris. State Sen. Ram Villivallam, D-Chicago, the bill’s sponsor, said 24 other states have similar legislation in place. “The name change law already requires folks with criminal records to disclose that information when filing their name change petition with the judge,” said Villivalam. “Second, fraud and criminal records are detected through social security or driver’s license numbers.” The measure passed out of the committee by a 9-4 vote and could be taken up by the Illinois Senate in January. The Illinois General Assembly took up the state’s name change laws in 1993 and voted to require that people convicted of felonies wait two years after serving their sentences before becoming eligible to legally change their names. In 2007, lifetime bans went into effect designed to prevent people from changing their names to escape the sex offender registry or to commit fraud.Next on the schedule for the Houston Texans (7-4) is a division matchup against the Tennessee Titans (2-8) on Sunday, November 24, 2024 at NRG Stadium. You should head to TV in order to see this game. Watch live NFL games, NFL Network, other live sports and more on Fubo. What is Fubo? Fubo is a streaming service that gives you access to your favorite live sports and shows on demand. Start your risk free trial today and watch seven hours of commercial-free football from every NFL game every Sunday. Catch NFL action all season long on Fubo. Watch Thursday Night Football exclusively on Prime Video. Rep your favorite NFL players with officially licensed gear. Head to Fanatics to find jerseys, shirts, hats, and much more. Get tickets for any NFL game this season at StubHub.Trump vows to pursue executions after Biden commutes most of federal death row

Emmanuel Acho, LeSean McCoy, James Jones and Emmanuel Sanders discuss whether Deion Sanders should want to coach the Las Vegas Raiders. The silver and black are reportedly a "potential fit" for Coach Prime as their next head coach. The Las Vegas Raiders may have complicated their draft position on Sunday as the team defeated the Jacksonville Jaguars, and fans of the team noticed. The Raiders would have dropped to 2-13 with a loss and would have been in a neck-and-neck race with the New York Giants for the No. 1 overall pick. But the Raiders won and the Giants lost. Las Vegas dropped to No. 6 because of the result. CLICK HERE FOR MORE SPORTS COVERAGE ON FOXNEWS.COM Raiders head coach Antonio Pierce watches his players warm up prior to an NFL football game against the Jacksonville Jaguars on Sunday, Dec. 22, 2024, in Las Vegas. (AP Photo/David Becker) As fans got upset with the Raiders on social media, head coach Antonio Pierce addressed critics during his media availability. "We don’t do this to lose," he said, per Pro Football Talk . "We don’t do this for anybody’s fantasy football team. We don’t do this for anybody’s draft projections. None of that s--- matters to us. Only thing that matters to us is winning, and that’s all we want to do." TEXANS COACH REVEALS EXTENT OF TANK DELL'S HORRIFIC INJURY Raiders running backs Chris Collier (33) and Dylan Laube are shown after an NFL football game against the Jacksonville Jaguars on Sunday, Dec. 22, 2024, in Las Vegas. (AP Photo/David Becker) Las Vegas is in the midst of one of the worst seasons in its franchise’s history. Three wins is far from what they hoped for after narrowly missing the playoffs last season when Pierce replaced Josh McDaniels as head coach in the middle of the season. The Raiders have only made the playoffs twice since losing to the Tampa Bay Buccaneers in the Super Bowl in the 2002 season. They haven’t made it out of the wild card round either. Raiders owner Mark Davis, left, talks with head coach Antonio Pierce prior to an NFL football game against the Jacksonville Jaguars on Sunday, Dec. 22, 2024, in Las Vegas. (AP Photo/David Becker) CLICK HERE TO GET THE FOX NEWS APP Las Vegas hits the road to play the New Orleans Saints on Sunday and finishes the season against the Los Angeles Chargers on Jan. 5. Follow Fox News Digital’s sports coverage on X and subscribe to the Fox News Sports Huddle newsletter . Ryan Gaydos is a senior editor for Fox News Digital.

Andrew Hanson Vice President of Generations Wealth Management Interviewed on the Influential Entrepreneur Podcast Discussing Creating A Financial Plan for the Future

SAN ANTONIO — Colorado secured what it said was record insurance coverage for quarterback Shedeur Sanders and Heisman Trophy winner Travis Hunter as the star duo opted to complete their college careers in the Alamo Bowl rather than sit out and prepare for the NFL draft. Colorado would not disclose the amount of insurance coverage each received, citing privacy laws. Coach Deion Sanders and athletic director Rick George both said it was the largest in college football history. "We happen to have two players that are probably going to be the first two picks of the NFL draft," Sanders said Monday. "We all know who those two are and they have received, I think, the highest number of coverage that has ever been covered in college football. It far exceeds anyone that has ever played this game of college football." While college programs maintain insurance policies for their athletes in case of injury, Colorado increased disability coverage for its entire roster in the Alamo Bowl. Sanders, the coach of the No. 20 Buffaloes, ensured his QB son and two-way star Hunter received larger policies since both are expected to be among the top 10 selections in the upcoming NFL draft. "It was his idea we should get disability insurance for our athletes for this game to ensure that they played and if there was some kind of injury that they would be well taken care of," George said. "So, we worked together on that. We're excited about it. We think it's great that all our players are playing in the game. That's what all bowl games should be like." Colorado (9-3, No. 23 CFP) will face the 17th-ranked BYU Cougars (10-2, No. 17 CFP) in the Alamo Bowl on Saturday. While most teams are scrambling with starters opting out of bowl games this year to enter the transfer portal or NFL draft, the Buffaloes did not lose any player on their two-deep roster. "It's more than what I got (when he played at Kansas State)," Colorado linebackers coach Andre' Hart said. "They gave us a helmet and said pop this on your leg and get out there and play. For them to get that (increased insurance coverage), I just think it's beneficial. To talk about where the game is, where it's going and how leadership is taking care of the players, I thought that's excellent." Shedeur Sanders completed 337 of 454 passes for 3,926 yards and 35 touchdowns this season. Many scouting services have Sanders rated as the top quarterback in this year's draft. Hunter received the Heisman Trophy as a two-way standout at cornerback and wide receiver. He had 92 receptions for 1,152 yards and 14 touchdowns and as a cornerback had four interceptions, broke up 11 passes and limited the opposition to 22 receptions on 688 defensive snaps. "They've taken care of us, everybody," Colorado running back Micah Welch said. "It really means a lot to have every teammate up here. That's a big thing. What I like about Coach Prime, they're taking care of us." Subscribe to stay connected to Tucson. A subscription helps you access more of the local stories that keep you connected to the community. Be the first to know Get local news delivered to your inbox!

New Social Security Commissioner under Trump Administration – Here’s What Will Happen in 2025Fontaines DC 3Arena, Dublin It has been a remarkable year for Fontaines DC, what with a change of musical direction on their critically adored and Grammy-nominated fourth album, Romance , and sold-out shows across the UK and Europe. Could there be a better way to celebrate than with a pair of hometown shows? Seven years ago, they played their first gig in front of 25 people. On Friday night, there are 14,000 present, although many more would be here if capacity obliged, and they play with a strut and confidence befitting a band considered by many to be one of the contemporary greats. Being a formidable live proposition was the band’s stock in trade even in the early days but, still, one can only marvel at how they have grown to easily command this sizeable venue. Grian Chatten is a born frontman, right down to the bug-eyed shades he sports for the first part of the show. He keeps chatter to a minimum, preferring to let the music speak. Unlike many of today’s bands, Fontaines DC is not simply a vehicle for the singer. This is very much a full band affair All but one track from Romance is played and the songs bristle with energy. The show starts with the stark title track, before fan favourite Jackie Down the Line and a raucous Televised Mind raise the temperature. Unlike many of today’s bands, Fontaines DC is not simply a vehicle for the singer. This is very much a full band affair, with guitarist Conor Curley and multi-instrumentalist Carlos O’Connell putting in quite the shift, while Conor Deegan on bass and drummer Tom Coll ensure the performance has a thrilling muscularity. The robustness of the sound is augmented by English touring musician Chilli Jesson, who flits from keys to guitar. The full force of the band’s energy is captured on a gloriously frenetic Hurricane Laughter while Big , the opening song on their much admired debut album Dogrel , is rapturously delivered. The best is yet to come, however. Ever since its 2019 release, Boys in the Better Land , has been hailed as a classic, one that’s very much part of the canon of the best Irish rock songs. And it’s delivered with gusto here, the crowd keeping pace with Chatton’s rapid-fire singing. It’s straight into another of their best songs, but their rendition of Favourite feels a little off and doesn’t quite capture the majesty of the recorded version. It’s not the only song that doesn’t quite connect, but on the whole, they’re in exemplary form. A Palestine flag is draped from the keyboard at the front of the stage and, at one point, it’s deliberately captured on the big screens while the band stamp out a beat and the audience chant “Free Palestine”. Politics of a more local hue arrives during the encore with a furious rendition of I Love You . It’s notable that one line in particular — “the gall of Fine Gael and the fail of Fianna Fáil” — is especially loudly sung by the predominately young crowd. Although each member lives outside Ireland now, their pride in their Irishness is clear — from the green, white and orange tape on Chatton’s microphone to the Monaghan GAA crest on Curley’s guitar and the braided Mayo red and green that’s tied to the neck of Deegan’s bass. The set finishes with the startling Starburster — a nu-metal creation that’s far better than mention of that lame genre suggests. It was inspired by Chatton’s experience of a frightening panic attack. There’s no such worries here, and as the performance reaches its end, it feels like a Fontaines victory lap.

Given India’s strong position in the equities market compared to other global markets, experts believe that the IPO market is expected to stay bullish overall with the total worth of public offerings surpassing $20 Bn as against $16 Bn in 2024 In Q3 2024 alone, India saw 27 IPOs, marking a 29% surge from the corresponding quarter of the previous year Within the tech startup ecosystem, at least 23 companies are gearing up for public listings next year, which would further add to the new-age tech stocks baskets for potential investors India’s new-age tech IPO market saw a massive upswing in 2024, driven by increased investor confidence and a favourable macroeconomic environment. What does 2025 have in store for startups looking to join the IPO spree and enter the big leagues? As many as 13 new-age tech startups made it to the public markets in 2024, cumulatively raising over INR 29K Cr ($3.4 Bn). And in 2025, this number is expected to double with at least 23 new-age tech startups eyeing a public listing, and looking to raise more than INR 55K Cr ($6.4 Bn) cumulatively. As predicted in the beginning of the year, the general elections in 2024 played a pivotal role in the IPO numbers. In fact, in the startup ecosystem, only five startups got listed before the elections while the rest hit the market once there was more stability post the election results. In 2025, while no such major events are due, ongoing macroeconomic uncertainties like GDP downfall might make the public market volatile from time to time. However, given India’s strong position in the equities market compared to other global markets, experts believe that the IPO market is expected to stay bullish overall with the total worth of public offerings surpassing $20 Bn as against $16 Bn in 2024 . In Q3 2024 alone, India saw 27 IPOs, marking a 29% surge from the corresponding quarter of the previous year. These companies cumulatively raised $4.27 Bn or close to INR 35,000 Cr, registering a 142% increase year-on-year (YoY). With that, the domestic market commanded a 36% share of total listings in Q3 2024, surpassing the US, which held a 13% share. To be noted, some of the top IPOs of this season included Swiggy, Bajaj Housing Finance, Ola Electric, FirstCry and India’s largest-ever IPO, Hyundai Motor India. The new year is expected to be more eventful as the highly anticipated public offerings of companies such as Flipkart, PhysicsWallah, Ather Energy, Zepto, HDFC Credila, and even the Indian arm of consumer electronics giant LG are expected to go to the public markets. Lightspeed India managing director Anuj Bhargava believes that the public markets trends of 2024 will continue well into 2025 and the momentum is expected to be strong. “Though we have seen some recent softening, which was expected, fundamentally, nothing has changed. Domestic capital inflows remain strong and are getting stronger. While foreign investment inflows have been sporadic, I think that was also expected. And the market today is held together, in large parts, by domestic institutions, which was not the case a couple of years ago,” said GFC’s Bhargava. In 2025, Lightspeed is looking to book profits from some of its high-profile portfolio startups such as PhysicsWallah, OYO, Zepto, and Zetwerk. Besides Lightspeed, a number of other VCs would be hoping for similar outcomes in 2025. Peak XV Partners managing partner Ishaan Mittal, for example, said that the VC major continues to be excited about the opportunity in the public markets given the trends are extremely positive both on the supply side of securities and the demand side. “On the supply side of securities, which includes the companies going public, we have just seen the tip of the iceberg as we speak. Many market-leading, exciting companies are yet to go public in every sector – whether consumer brands or consumer internet companies like Meesho, fintech companies like Groww, or payments companies like Pine Labs and Razorpay. In the next 12-18 months, many of these companies will go public,” he added. Mittal believes that domestic capital and foreign capital investors are showing great interest in IPOs and their keenness to participate in the Indian public markets is evident from the reception for some stocks. Within the tech startup ecosystem, at least 23 companies are gearing up for public listings next year, which would further add to the new-age tech stocks baskets for potential investors. The list includes Ather Energy, BlueStone, CarDekho, CaptainFresh, Ecom Express, Fractal, Infra Market, IndiQube, ArisInfra, Innoviti, OfBusiness, Ola Cabs, Pure EV, Physics Wallah, Ullu, Smartworks, among several others. These startups are set to raise more than $6 Bn cumulatively in the process of fundraising via IPOs, as things stand. Depending on the market conditions, some of these companies might decide to trim the size of their IPOs. Of this, already nine startups have filed their respective DRHPs with the Securities and Boards of India (SEBI). Coworking space provider Smartworks and logistics startup Ecom Express have already received the market regulator’s approval to file an IPO. Unlike the past three years, when startups that made the public market debut were largely tech companies, in 2025, there is a big wave of tech-enabled startups eyeing public listings. For instance, BlueStone is a D2C jewellery brand with an online presence as a part of its business model. PhysicsWallah, looking to become the first Indian edtech platform to public, is also offline-heavy at the moment. Even though the startup has a major student base online, a significant 40% of its total revenue is from offline coaching centres. Similarly, the coworking space providers Smartworks, IndiQube, ArisInfra, DevX as well as WeWork and Table Space (also preparing for listing within a year or two), are platforms that use technology to enable their business processes, but in terms of the business model, they are largely similar to their traditional counterparts. Pointing to this trend, Aakash Agrawal, associate director, digital and new-age business at brokerage firm Anand Rathi, said that it will be important for the public market investors to be able to differentiate between pure-play tech companies and tech-enabled companies as that would be essential in deciding the valuation premium they can claim and growth opportunities they have. “Take the example of OfBusiness. While it’s a solid company with good profitability, we must also appreciate that it is essentially a trading company with a tech aspect to it. So, what kind of multiples does it find for itself? How does it price its IPO given it’s a technology company as well? These factors are going to be very interesting to see next year,” said Agrawal. Meanwhile, it is also interesting that there is a sudden surge in coworking space IPOs after Awfis made its successful public market debut in 2024. The market is attributing this trend to an increasing demand for flexible workspaces. A CEO at one of the leading coworking space provider companies told Inc42 earlier this year that India’s growth narrative, coupled with a commercial real estate boom, is creating a conducive environment for flexible workspace startups. However, as the market gets cluttered, it would be interesting to see if all the impending coworking space IPOs emerge victorious in their IPOs in the coming months. Speaking on the matter, Amit Ramani, CMD at Awfis, said that as coworking spaces prepare to enter a potentially crowded public market over the next 12–18 months, their success in securing favourable investor responses will hinge on several key factors, including financial health and profitability with investors focusing on companies that demonstrate sustainable revenue streams, robust growth trajectories, and resilience to market fluctuations. “Differentiation will play a critical role, with coworking spaces standing out by offering unique value propositions such as advanced technology integration, premium amenities, sustainable features, and services tailored to specific industries... Scalability and market penetration will be vital; companies with a diversified geographical presence and the capacity to scale seamlessly are likely to be viewed as more viable. Lastly, adaptability to evolving work trends – such as hybrid and remote work – through flexible offerings and innovative solutions will be crucial,” Awfis’ Ramani told Inc42. With the tech startup IPO boom, profitable exits are becoming super critical for VC funds and PEs. After the 2021 IPO boom, 2024 brought a deja-vu moment for the PEs and VCs in India as the total gross exit value was $1.8 Bn in 2024, close to $2.3 Bn in 2021. Amid a global IPO market slump that had also adversely affected India’s stock market, the total gross exit value dipped to $700 Mn in 2022 and $1 Bn in 2023. Next year, top private investors including the likes of Lightspeed, PeakXV, Accel, and SoftBank are eyeing far more gains by offloading stakes in both pre-IPO rounds and during the IPOs. Even though some VCs and PEs might sell some stakes at a loss, it will be compensated by high returns from other portfolios. “Our focus is to continue to invest with a strong belief that we, in the venture capital industry, now have a very viable path to exit, not just a very strong IPO market about that, but also a strong pre-IPO market,” added Lightspeed’s Bhargava. The concept of pre-round IPO is also undergoing a shift. As Bhargava pointed out, traditionally this term was narrowly defined and it was a financing round just ahead of a company’s IPO to set a benchmark for the eventual IPO. “Now anything up to two years before an IPO is also a pre-IPO round. In addition to traditional crossover funds, lots of new pre-IPO funds have come up. We’ve seen family offices and HNIs being exceptionally active in this market. We expect this trend to continue,” he said, adding that the firm will certainly use pre-IPO rounds as an opportunity to exit some of its portfolio startups. Meanwhile, the Lightspeed MD also noted that several technical and fundamental dynamics decide the VC firms’ decision around partial and complete liquidation. “I think investors largely use IPOs as a partial liquidity sort of event, and then gradually exit over time. Similarly, on the pre-IPO side, people look to monetise also because we don’t want to go into an IPO with a very large shareholding from one shareholder. It places a bit of an overhang on the stock,” he added. Besides, it’s important to note that in most cases, these VCs are also reaching the end of their fund cycles and they have to realise profits to give return to their investors. With the successful IPOs of Hyundai and Swiggy in 2024, which were two of the largest IPOs in the history of the Indian equity market, the trend of large-sized IPOs are set to persist in the new year. Anand Rathi’s Agrawal said that while the small and mid-sized IPOs will be more frequent, there will also be 10-20% of the companies, which are eyeing large IPOs such as PhysicsWallah, Infra.Market and OfBusiness. “We think the IPO market will have secular growth next year. And these companies that will have large IPOs are private equity backed, raised a lot of private capital, and scaled up significantly, which warrants a large IPO,” he added. Even though it was evident this year that many new-age tech startups, including ixigo, FirstCry, Ola Electric, MobiKwik reduced their respective IPO sizes from earlier planned, Peak XV’s Mittal believes that the scale of offering have no bearing on the success or failure of IPOs if the fundamentals are strong. The verdict of the market is clear when it comes to profitability – become profitable ahead of the IPOs or show a clear path to profitability in the near term. This sentiment is not going to change in 2025. However, the recent IPOs of MobiKwik, Ola Electric and Swiggy (to some extent) have proven contrary to these expectations. Some investors believe that sometimes household names, clear growth opportunities, and exposure to niche market segments might cause such exceptions but largely, profitability and strong unit economics are a must for the public market. Peak XV’s Mittal said that profitability must be and will continue to be key for companies going IPO, however, this factor also needs to be contextualised. “This is a good time where founders and investors alike are focusing on profits. They are able to generate those profits without hurting the core of the business or without taking away from the future of the business. While profitability is important, we don’t want to compromise on the future potential of the company to optimise for short-term profits, we would rather optimise for long-term profits.” Taking a slightly different perspective, Lightspeed’s Bhargava argued that unlike in the US where companies with less than $10 Bn or $15 Bn in valuation do not receive much attention in the IPO market, Indian investors are open to much smaller valuations. “Promoters, founders, and early-stage investors are also conscious that you cannot price an IPO where you bring nothing to the table near term for incoming investments. At the same time, the IPOs cannot be very small because the companies need institutional investors following, index inclusion, liquidity in the market. But the point is, you also do not need to be a billion-dollar company to list in India,” Bhargava said. On the other hand, it goes without saying that profitable companies can command a premium in terms of the valuation. “Ultimately it boils down to growth, free cash flow, and profitability. Wherever there is an opportunity to grow, we will see promising valuations. Sometimes valuations might be slightly steep given that they are accounting for a future market opportunity and scalability. Zomato has been an example of it earlier. Swiggy too cashed on that,” said Anand Rathi’s Agrawal. As per various publicly available data, Foreign Institutional Investors (FIIs) sold a net of INR 1.14 Lakh Cr in October 2024, the highest selling in a month so far, surpassing the numbers of Covid-19 pandemic period in March 2020. Amid many currently seeing the Indian market as overvalued, rising inflation, and a few other global macroeconomic factors, in 2024, FIIs have been the biggest sellers. Even though this has caused volatility in the market, the Domestic Institutional Investors (DIIs) kept buying. In October alone they made the highest purchase of more than INR 1 Lakh Cr. The market experts believe that FIIs selling will not impact the upcoming IPOs of 2025 as DIIs will remain strong and mutual funds are booming. Even retail investors are expected to show continued support even to the new-age tech startup IPOs given these investors now have an improved understanding of the peculiarities of these businesses. “If FIIs stop deploying capital, then it causes a larger problem. But currently, there’s no sign of that. And in fact, India is looked at as a sweet spot in the developing world,” Agrawal said. Sector-focussed policies play an important role in driving stock performances and even the companies going public. Devang Kabra, fund manager at Wallfort PMS, said that the policies the government tabled in the winter session of the Parliament will be one of the areas to watch out for. “For example, there is an Insurance Amendment Bill proposing 100% FDI, allowing relaxations for net worth requirements for companies to become insurance companies is tabled. Once it passes, we will see many big insurance brokers turning themselves into insurance companies and coming out with IPOs,” Kabra said. He said that once a policy decision happens, it impacts several other industries down the line. This Insurance Amendment Bill might lead to IPOs of more hospitals. To quote global brokerage Bernstein, “Trump’s return through high-profile US elections added new layers of complexity to inflation dynamics and geopolitical assessments... How will global inflation pan out with Trump at the helm, and will export be a more critical area to focus on than domestic cycles?” It is important to note that Trump’s win strengthens US’ “China+1” strategy, which is expected to give India a boost in its manufacturing sector. JM Financial said in a research report that China, Mexico and Canada will likely attract higher tariffs, which could provide India with the benefits in a number of manufacturing segments — chemicals, auto components, electrical components, solar panels and solar cells, tiles and other categories. Wallfort PMS’ Kabra also believes that the manufacturing sector will now pick pace further and there will be stronger ground built for their IPOs. However, domestic IT companies now might have to deal with stronger immigration rules in the US. Plus, there is higher inflationary pressure and increasing pressure on the Indian rupee. These volatile situations are less likely to impact the IPO sentiment in the long run in 2025, however, some short-term cautiousness is likely to linger in the early months. As the domestic market braces for a record year in the history of public markets, as predicted by market experts, it will also be key for the companies, especially new-age tech startups, to ensure transparent governance and clear strategic vision. After all, public markets are sensitive to these core factors. The recent incident of hoards of complaints against Ola Electric’s products and services and the negative impact of it on its stock is a case in point. While many believe that startups are riding the IPO boom without being ready enough to function in a public market, Gautham Srinivas, Partner, capital markets at Khaitan & Co., said that all the companies preparing to go public have the utmost checks in place to meet the regulatory requirements. “Public issues are not a one-month process. To file DRHP, a company needs two to three months. So, an absolutely thorough check gets done. All the upcoming new-age companies are equipped to handle a public issue from a regulatory point of view given the standards of governance they already maintain,” Srinivas added. Edited By Nikhil SubramaniamJeep owners file class-action over alleged engine-fire issueThanksgiving is coming. Do I have to worry about overeating and weight gain during the holidays?

Guardiola denies rift with De Bruyne during Man City's dramatic slump

The stock market has a well-documented tendency to deliver gains during the final trading days of December, a phenomenon known as the “Santa Claus rally.” This period of optimism has historically brought cheer to investors, with the S&P 500 gaining in 64 out of the last 96 years during the Dec. 24–Dec. 31 window, averaging a respectable 0.85% return, according to data from Seasonax. The Santa Claus rally's most memorable performance occurred in 2018, when the S&P 500 surged 6.6%, its strongest year-end rally on record. Close on its heels was 1933, which delivered a 5.5% rally. On the flip side, 1937 and 2000 stand out as exceptions, with losses of 4.6% and 2.4%, respectively, over the same period. The pattern holds true even during election years, offering hope to traders as 2024 wraps up. In the past 24 election years, the S&P 500 has posted gains in 15 instances, averaging a modest 0.7% return. Notable rallies occurred in 2008, with a 4% rise, and in 1928, when the index climbed 3.4%. 10 Santa Rally Hyper Responders For traders looking to capitalize on this seasonal tailwind, certain stocks have consistently outperformed during the Santa Claus rally window. Here are 10 notable S&P 500 stocks that have historically shone between Dec. 24 and Dec. 31 over the last 20 years: Company Avg. Return Median Return Max Profit Max Loss Win Ratio Newmont Mining Corporation NEM +1.68% +1.36% +10.76% -2.97% 65% Illumina, Inc ILMN +1.49% +1.25% +10.08% -2.64% 60% Western Digital Corporation WDC +1.42% +0.96% +10.96% -3.60% 60% Assurant, Inc AIZ +1.41% +0.56% +14.33% -4.07% 65% Mohawk Industries, Inc MHK +1.32% +1.22% +8.81% -3.94% 65% Global Payments Inc GPN +1.32% +0.95% +8.14% -1.51% 75% Walt Disney Co. DIS +1.28% +0.52% +9.27% -2.89% 60% Goldman Sachs Group, Inc GS +1.27% +0.39% +10.40% -1.41% 70% ON Semiconductor Corporation ON +1.25% +1.13% +9.63% -4.70% 60% Ralph Lauren Corp. (NYSE RL) +1.19% +0.51% +8.21% -2.36% 65% Read Next: Investors Aggressively Bought Stocks, ETFs In Volatile Fed Week: Bank Of America Reveals Largest Inflows Since 2017 Photo: Shutterstock © 2024 Benzinga.com. Benzinga does not provide investment advice. All rights reserved.Jinnah’s youth as the architects of modern Pakistan Today, youth of our country face numerous challenges, leading to a growing sense of purposelessness The youth are the architects of a nation’s future, and no one understood this better than Quaid-i-Azam Muhammad Ali Jinnah. His timeless words, “Education is a matter of life and death for our country,” continue to resonate, urging Pakistan’s young generation to rise above their struggles and take charge of their destiny. Today, the youth of our country face numerous challenges, leading to a growing sense of purposelessness. The younger generation is undoubtedly going through a difficult phase, with many drifting away morally, ethically, and spiritually. The Ministry of Health reports that 80 million adults in the country suffer from mental health issues, with a considerable proportion being young individuals. This highlights the frustration and alienation felt by a generation often caught in a lifestyle perceived as devoid of meaning. In stark contrast to the empowered, focused, and aspiring youth of the pre-independence era, today’s generation appears adrift. This decline can be attributed to various factors, including rapid urbanisation, technological advancements, globalisation, political instability, unemployment, and the erosion of traditional values. While globalisation has brought both opportunities and challenges, it has also shaped the living standards of youth in recent decades. Most importantly, political dependence, rising unemployment, and the erosion of value systems are the primary factors making the lives of our generation increasingly difficult and complicated. To overcome this dilemma, it is essential to instill the teachings and values of the Quaid-i-Azam in our youth for their overall development and nation-building. Quaid-i-Azam Muhammad Ali Jinnah was not only the founder of this country but also a philosopher, visionary, and one of the world’s greatest leaders. His vision for a new homeland for Indian Muslims of the subcontinent transformed not only the lives of Muslims of the region but also the demography of the subcontinent. After Pakistan’s triumph, Jinnah’s focus shifted to training, disciplining, and building the character of the youth to ensure Pakistan’s development and stability is in the right hands. Recognising youth as the future of the country, he advised and guided the youth to shape Pakistan’s futurein more than one way, while guiding them at every front. Strive for excellence through education Jinnah placed education at the heart of his vision for Pakistan. He was inspired by Sir Syed Ahmed Khan’s efforts to introduce Indian Muslims to modern scientific education and consistently emphasised its transformative power. “Without education, it is complete darkness, and with education, it is light,” he famously stated. During his early political career, Jinnah fought for universal education in British India. In 1911, he supported Gokhale’s Elementary Education Bill, advocating for free and compulsory education despite opposition from the colonial administration. He criticised the British education system for producing clerks to serve the empire, calling for a curriculum that would empower individuals to think critically and innovate. After Pakistan’s independence, Quaid-i-Azam repeatedly highlighted the importance of education in his speeches, urging the youth to acquire knowledge and skills that would enable them to navigate the complexities of a rapidly changing world. He envisioned a progressive society where education was not merely a means of earning a livelihood but a tool for intellectual growth and societal transformation. Unity, faith, and discipline Jinnah’s famous slogan-”Unity, faith, and discipline”-was a call to action for the youth of Pakistan. He believed these three qualities were essential for nation-building and repeatedly emphasised their importance in his speeches. On October 30, 1947, he urged the youth: “Unity, faith, and discipline are the three essential qualities you must possess to rebuild the nation and bring progress.” Moral and ethical integrity Jinnah believed that no nation could achieve greatness without a foundation of moral and ethical integrity. He was deeply concerned about the dangers of nepotism, corruption, and favouritism, warning that these practices could undermine Pakistan’s development. In his inaugural speech to the Constitutional Assembly of Pakistan, he stressed the importance of meritocracy and fairness, urging the youth to uphold high ethical standards in all aspects of life. He said, “Character is the foundation of all greatness. Build yourselves as men and women of high principles and unshakable moral standards.” Tolerance and coexistence Jinnah’s vision for Pakistan was rooted in the principles of tolerance and coexistence. While the country was founded on the two-nation theory, he consistently advocated for a society where people of all religions, ethnicities, and classes could live together in harmony. In his historic address to the Constitutional Assembly of Pakistan on August 11, 1947, he emphasised the importance of unity and mutual respect, urging the youth to rise above divisive ideologies. He said, “You are free; you are free to go to your temples, you are free to go to your mosques or to any other place of worship in this State of Pakistan. You may belong to any religion, caste, or creed-that has nothing to do with the business of the State.” The responsibility of nation-building Jinnah saw the youth as the torchbearers of Pakistan’s future. While addressing young civil servants on October 11, 1947, he urged them, “Be the torchbearers of justice and fairness, for only then can a nation thrive and prosper.” He emphasised their vital role in shaping the country’s destiny, further reiterating this message in his speech at Dhaka University in March 1948. He stated, “Pakistan is proud of its youth. You are the nation-builders of tomorrow, and your efforts today will determine the future of this country.” Jinnah encouraged the youth to take an active interest in global politics and economic trends, stressing that a well-informed and educated generation was essential for Pakistan’s development. He believed that education should not be seen merely as a path to employment but as a tool for fostering critical and rational thinking. This, he argued, would empower the youth to address the nation’s challenges and contribute to its progress. Jinnah’s timeless vision calls on the youth to rise above personal interests and build a modern, prosperous Pakistan. In today’s turbulent times, his principles of unity, discipline, and moral integrity offer the roadmap we desperately need. By embracing his teachings, we can transform our nation and realise the greatness he dreamt of-a Pakistan defined by progress, strength, and unity.Biden gives life in prison to 37 of 40 federal death row inmates before Trump can resume executions WASHINGTON (AP) — President Joe Biden is commuting the sentences of 37 of the 40 people on federal death row. He's converting their punishments to life imprisonment just weeks before Donald Trump, an outspoken proponent of expanding capital punishment, takes office. Biden says the commutations are consistent with a pause on executions put in place by his administration in cases other than terrorism and hate-motivated mass murder. Biden says he couldn't let a new administration resume executions. Trump has talked about subjecting drug dealers and human smugglers to the death penalty. A spokesperson for Trump says Biden's decision is “abhorrent" and a “slap in the face” to victims and their families. House Ethics Committee accuses Gaetz of paying for sex, including with 17-year-old girl WASHINGTON (AP) — The House Ethics Committee has accused Matt Gaetz of “regularly” paying for sex, including once with a 17-year-old girl, and purchasing and using illicit drugs as a member of Congress. The 37-page report was released Monday by the bipartisan panel after a nearly four-year investigation that helped sink his nomination for attorney general. The report includes explicit details of sex-filled parties and vacations that Gaetz took part in while representing Florida in the House. Congressional investigators concluded that he violated multiple state laws related to sexual misconduct while in office. Gaetz has denied all wrongdoing and he filed a lawsuit Monday trying to block the report’s release. Luigi Mangione pleads not guilty to murder and weapons charges in UnitedHealthcare CEO's death NEW YORK (AP) — The man accused of fatally shooting the CEO of UnitedHealthcare has pleaded not guilty to murder and terror charges in a state case that will run parallel to his federal prosecution. The Manhattan district attorney formally charged Luigi Mangione last week with multiple counts of murder, including murder as an act of terrorism. Mangione's attorney complained during a brief hearing Monday that statements coming from New York’s mayor would make it tough for him to receive a fair trial. Mangione was shackled and seated in a Manhattan court when he leaned over to a microphone to enter his not guilty plea. Man faces murder charges in the death of a woman who was lit on fire in New York City subway A man is facing murder charges in New York City for allegedly setting a woman on fire inside a subway train and then watching her die after she was engulfed in flames. Police on Monday said the man, identified as 33-year-old Sebastian Zapeta, had been taken into custody as a person of interest in the case hours after the woman died. U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement spokesman Jeff Carter said he is a Guatemalan citizen who entered the U.S. illegally after he had been previously removed in 2018. Transit police apprehended the man hours after the fatal fire. Middle East latest: Defense minister acknowledges Israel killed Hamas leader Israel’s defense minister has confirmed that Israel assassinated Hamas’ top leader last summer and is threatening to take similar action against the leadership of the Houthi rebel group in Yemen. The comments by Israel Katz appeared to mark the first time that Israel has acknowledged killing Ismail Haniyeh, who died in an explosion in Iran in July. Israel was widely believed to be behind the blast and leaders have previously hinted at its involvement. In a speech Monday, Katz said the Houthis would meet a similar fate as the other members of an Iranian-led alliance in the region, including Haniyeh. He also noted that Israel has killed other leaders of Hamas and Hezbollah, helped topple Syria’s Bashar Assad and destroyed Iran’s anti-aircraft systems. Trump again calls to buy Greenland after eyeing Canada and the Panama Canal WEST PALM BEACH, Fla. (AP) — First it was Canada, then the Panama Canal. Now, Donald Trump again wants Greenland. The president-elect is renewing calls he made during his first term for the U.S. to buy Greenland, the ice-covered semi-autonomous Danish territory. That's added to the list of allied countries he’s picking fights with, even before taking office on Jan. 20. Greenland insists it's not for sale and Trump's initial calls to purchase it in 2019 came to nothing. But his latest suggestion comes after the president-elect suggested the U.S. could retake control of the Panama Canal and that Canadians wanted their county to become the 51st U.S. state. Nissan and Honda to attempt a merger that would create the world's No. 3 automaker TOKYO (AP) — Japanese automakers Nissan and Honda have announced plans to work toward a merger that would catapult them to a top position in an industry in the midst of tectonic shifts as it transitions away from its reliance on fossil fuels. The two companies said they signed an agreement on integrating their businesses on Monday. Smaller Nissan alliance member Mitsubishi Motors agreed to join the talks. News of a possible merger surfaced earlier this month. Japanese automakers face a strong challenge from their Chinese rivals and Tesla as they make inroads into markets at home and abroad. Magdeburg mourns Christmas market attack victims as fears swirl of deeper German social divisions MAGDEBURG, Germany (AP) — Mourners are laying flowers near the scene of the deadly Christmas market attack as investigators puzzle over the motive of the suspect and his previous encounters with authorities are scrutinized. At the same time there are fears that the rampage could deepen divisions in German society. A church a short walk from the scene of the attack has become a central place of mourning since the suspect drove a car into the busy market on Friday evening and killed five people. Authorities have identified the suspect as a Saudi doctor who arrived in Germany in 2006 and had received permanent residency. They say he doesn't fit the usual profile of perpetrators of extremist attacks. How faith communities can be welcoming of believers with disabilities this holiday season and beyond This holiday season, some religious congregations across the U.S. are holding events designed to be accommodating to and inclusive of people with intellectual and developmental disabilities. They range from a “Calm Christmas” in West Virginia to an inclusive Hanukkah in New Jersey. Many disabled people, advocates and families want more houses of worship to know that there are ways to fully incorporate and welcome people with these and other disabilities and their families — and not just during the holidays but year round. Tennessee and Auburn remain 1-2 in AP Top 25 poll featuring 10 SEC teams Tennessee and Auburn remained Nos. 1-2 atop The Associated Press men’s college basketball poll. They were the headliners among the Southeastern Conference's haul of 10 ranked teams. Iowa State, Duke and Alabama rounded out the top five. Kentucky had the week's biggest fall, sliding six spots to No. 10 after a loss to Ohio State. Mississippi State, Arkansas, Illinois and Baylor rejoined the poll after stints in the rankings earlier this season. They replaced Memphis, Dayton, Michigan and Clemson. The Big 12 and Big Ten were tied for second with five teams each in the AP Top 25.

Atal was Ajatshatru of Indian politics, says CM

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