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A key figure in a trucker protest that jammed Canada's capital and sparked a global movement against Covid mandates was found guilty Friday for his role in the blockade. The self-styled "Freedom Convoy" of big rig drivers and protesters rolled into Ottawa in early 2022 from across Canada to express anger at government protocols imposed to contain Covid-19. After three weeks of turmoil, Prime Minister Justin Trudeau invoked rarely used emergency powers to dislodge the protesters. Pat King was among hundreds of people arrested, and the first of the protest leaders to be convicted. Two other organizers, Tamara Lich and Chris Barber faced a separate criminal trial but those verdicts are not expected until 2025. King faces up to 10 years in prison after being convicted on five charges, including mischief, counselling others to commit mischief and disobeying a court order. Acquitted of more serious charges, he smiled at a packed courtroom of supporters as the judge read the verdict. "Mr King was not merely engaging in political speech," Justice Charles Hackland said. "Rather, he was inciting the protesters to continue their ongoing blockade of downtown Ottawa." King led hundreds of big rigs and thousands of protestors to Ottawa, bringing the capital to a standstill for more than three weeks. Residents and business owners complained of incessant honking and harassment. As the demonstrators' demands expanded to a broader anti-establishment agenda, solidarity rallies popped up at Canada-US trade corridors and various places abroad. Most of the evidence at trial consisted of videos King posted on social media in which he urged his nearly 300,000 followers to rail against government overreach. "Hold the line," he said in video posts, appearing also to delight in the gridlock and misery of locals: "Pretty hilarious that people haven't been able to sleep for 10 days." Trudeau faced strong criticisms from civil liberties groups and the opposition Conservatives for invoking the Emergencies Act to dislodge the protestors. But a commission of inquiry ruled it had been "appropriate," calling it "a drastic move, but... not a dictatorial one." amc/bs/bfmStocks on the Rise! Don’t Miss Out
“If gold rust, what then will iron do? For if a priest be foul in whom we trust, no wonder that a common man should rust.” – Geoffrey Chaucer’s The Canterbury Tales. On Sunday, 24 November 2024, I read a Ghana Web reportage carried under the banner headline: “2024 Elections: If your mother is at the funeral, you cannot be denied Tuo Zaafi – Bawumia to Walewale residents.” After reading the news report I became convinced instantly that Mahamudu Bawumia lacked the honesty, high moral character and proven integrity demanded of the high office of the President of Ghana under the 1992 Constitution. My memory sent me to a document I had been privy to as the Special Prosecutor in which the first of Nana Akufo-Addo’s guiding principles which he told to a friend who restated them in a handwritten recollection was as follows: “Ohene sƐ wo foro akoŋwa yi na sƐ wo aŋya sika a, wↄ bƐka sƐ wo yƐ okwasanpa ni”, however, that does NOT mean that ONLY ... [name] and ... [name] alone should make ALL the money ...the money must spread.” I have tried to type out the twi words in twi characters as written in hand using a computer as accurately as I can, which translated in my understanding means that: “ A chief who ascends a stool and does not get rich, would be said to be a foolish old man.” I shall explain how I came by Nana Akufo Addo’s guiding principles in due course. But I was flabbergasted, as I least expected that Dr. Mahamudu Bawunia, the son of my late friend, Alhaji Mumuni Bawumia, a two-time Chairperson of the Council of State under the 1992 Constitution, an honest and leading northern politician who fought tirelessly for the development of the British Protectorate of Northern Territories of the Gold Coast Colony and Ashanti (NT) until the North became part of a unitary Republic of Ghana would be so unlike his father and exhibit the highest degree of moral turpitude and selfishness in public office as a Vice-President wishing to become the next President of Ghana. I was puzzled at how this could happen to Alhaji Mumuni Bawumia’s son years after his demise and burial when the John Agyekum Kufuor government ignored the sad event without any state participation in the burial and funeral rites of such an honourable and distinguished Northerner of impeccable character and integrity. As I pondered upon how this could happen, my bank of knowledge brought to the fore the fact that the trait exhibited by Dr. Mahamadu Bawumia was an adulthood acquisition attributable to socialization through association with persons of a culture that endorses the new philosophy he propounded at the Walewale rally. The answer to the puzzle surfaced when my bank of knowledge rebooted to an incident which occurred in 2018 when I was the Special Prosecutor at the Office of the Special Prosecutor. One morning I was presented, without my asking, through an anti-corruption activist friend of mine with a document with the subject matter: “GUIDING PRINCIPLES???” which was a memorandum addressed in hand to President Nana Akufo Addo recounting a conversation between President Nana Akufo-Addo and a friend of his when he was the Foreign Minister then residing at his East Legon residence on the Ambassadorial Road just next to my late friend, DCOP Mr. J. A . Adams’ residence. I was so alarmed by the content of the document that instead of destroying it after reading it as I was instructed by the sender, I rather sent the document by special delivery to the United Kingdom for safekeeping in case anything untoward befell me as the Special Prosecutor. I had to refresh my memory with the exact words used in stating Nana Akufo-Addo’s guiding principles that rhymed with Dr. Mahamudu Bawumia’s pronounced “guiding principle” should he become President of Ghana. The reader who has been following my discourse on the 2024 elections and the competence of Dr. Mahamudu Bawumia as the anointed successor of President Akufo-Addo to be the sixth President of Ghana will recollect that I have been doubtful whether the Vice-President and flagbearer of the governing New Patriotic Party (NPP) was going to be any different from the governance style and principles of his mentor and promoter the President. Bawumia’s declaration of principle of one’s mother being at the funeral ensuring that one cannot be denied Tuo Zaafi, rhymes with Nana Akufo-Addo’s guiding principles before he became President as contained in the document I received when I was the Special Prosecutor in 2018. I, therefore, propose to set forth what Dr. Bawumia was quoted as having said to the residents of Walewale in his native West Mamprusi Municipal Assembly area alongside the message that was delivered to me in 2018 to put this matter into proper perspective. Ghana Web with source as 3news.com quoted the NPP flagbearer and incumbent Vice-President Mahamudu Bawumia as stating that: “We have just two weeks to elect a president for Ghana. Imagine the feeling when they say the President of Ghana is from your home. God has given us a great chance, and that power can be beneficial because, per our constitution, whatever the President says is final. Just imagine that the power is in your own house.” The news report paraphrased Dr. Bawumia as: “Citing a local proverb which means that if one has their own in the right places, what they deserve will not be denied them, the NPP flagbearer urged them to vote for none other than him,” and quoted him in the following words: “That is why we say, if your mother is at the funeral, you cannot be denied TZ (Tuo Zaafi). You will just be enjoying TZ with good soup every day. ... Therefore, we must not joke with this opportunity. God has given us a great gift. God has given us a penalty and chosen a goalkeeper for us to score. John Mahama has been President before, and he can only do four years, but I can do eight years by the grace of God,” President Nana Akufo-Addo’s “GUIDING PRINCIPLES???” I received which was dated 18 April 2018 contained three (3) distinct guiding principles , the first two of which the written recollection of the conversation listed as follows: (i) “.... that on the aircraft from Mali/Niger? to Accra, you told K4 that,..”Sir, wo ayƐ mistake” ...you should NOT have bought the Hotel on your name and should have used a TRUST to acquire it...and the answer was very simple; that K4 did NOT trust anybody (to do just that). ...” (ii) ...” “Ohene sƐ wo foro akoŋwa yi na sƐ wo aŋya sika a, wↄ bƐka sƐ wo yƐ okwasanpa ni”, however, that does NOT mean that ONLY ... [name] and ... [name] alone should make ALL the money ...the money must spread.” I have left out the names of the two persons named as not being the ONLY people alone to “make ALL the money...the money must spread.” I have also left out the third listed principle out of discretion and caution. My intention is not to vilify everybody in the government. I am just stating why in my considered view the electorate should not vote for Dr. Mahamudu Bawumia to replace Nana Akufo-Addo as President of Ghana on 7 December 2024. When one puts Nana Akufo-Addo’s suggested “GUIDING PRINCIPLES???” alongside his anointed successor, Dr. Mahamudu Bawumia’s guiding principles one cannot escape the conclusion that Dr. Bawumia has internalized a new cultural, economic, political and social process of socialization that forms his present character through association with the President from 2008 when he chose him as his running mate to date. After refreshing my memory with what I read as Nana Akufo-Addo’s guiding principles I could not resist the fact that his government of family, friends and cronies from 7 January 2017 has reflected the principles contained in the document I received as the Special Prosecutor in 2018. Nana Akufo-Addo’s right hand man in actualizing the create, loot and share philosophy he espoused while he was John Agyekum Kufour’s Foreign Minister and throughout his contest to be President and assuming the Presidency has been none other than Dr. Mahamadu Bawumia. Nana Akufo-Addo actualized his guiding principles during his eight-year tenure of office with Bawumia and still wants more of those governing principles to continue by choosing to anoint his Vice-President and poodle as successor through their long game of election rigging for the succession. My responsibility as a constitutional activist is to inform the electorate of the facts to enable them to make an informed choice of the next President of Ghana. When Mahamudu Bawumia as Vice-President saw the opportunity to locate a STEM Senior High School in the northern sector of Ghana he sent it to his late mother’s home village in Kpasenkpe, in his native West Mamprusi Municipal Assembly Area. When there was an opportunity for a public/private partnership to develop the watermelon industry in the northern sector of Ghana, Dr. Mahamudu Bawumia ensured that the factory was sited at Logri within the environs of Walewale in his native West Mamprusi Municipal Assembly Area. The citizens of Ghana living in the North East Region where Dr. Bawumia hails from have had occasion to complain bitterly of discrimination in the distribution of development in that region. In an article headlined “One-Sided Distribution Of Development In the North East Region” published on Modern Ghana one author lamented as follows: “The North East has experienced some massive development over the last 7 years in the sector of Education, Health, Roads, Sports etc. The question is how are these developmental projects fairly distributed among the various vulnerable and deprived Districts?” The author answers the question as follows: Obviously No, because, some districts have been denied and neglect their share of the Regional Developmental Agenda base on some political merits while others had their shares. All the developmental projects have been shifted to one of the Region, some Districts have had tremendous growth and development while others still remains deprived and neglected. This (sic) simply the division of the Region into two, the Mamprugu areas and non Mamprugu areas.” The author then highlighted the inequality in distribution of development projects in the region by writing that: “West Mamprusi Municipal, East Mamprusi Municipal and Mamprugu Moaduri have gained some massive development in all sectors compare to Chereponi, Yunyoo-Nasua and Bunkpurugu-Nakpanduri. Several people have been asking why the three Mamprugu Districts gained much development than the others. The question remain unanswered....” The foregoing rhymes with the Akufo-Addo/Bawumia principles as stated by Bawumia at his hometown of Walewale in the West Mamprusi Municipality: “That is why we say, if your mother is at the funeral, you cannot be denied TZ (Tuo Zaafi). You will just be enjoying TZ with good soup every day.” As acting President of Ghana Dr. Mahamudu Bawumia has shown zero competence for the protection of the citizens’ human security as evidenced by his inability to manage on-going conflicts in the country in the absence of the President from Ghana. This contrast very sharply with the character, honour, integrity and selflessness of his late distinguished father. Alhaji Mumuni Bawumia, the father of Dr. Mahamudu Bawumia, worked with the Provisional National Defence Council (PNDC) government from 1988 to 7 January 1993 as Ghana’s Ambassador to Saudi Arabia. The NDC Government of Jerry John Rawlings appointed him as the first and second Chairperson of the Council of State under the Fourth Republic during the two tenures of that government. I was present as Deputy Attorney General representing the Attorney-General at a Council of State requested meeting to discuss matters affecting the development of Ghana which was convened at the Castle Gardens. Alhaji Mumuni Bawumia took everybody by surprise when, out of the blue, he raised the question of why the former NT which became part of independent Ghana in 1957 still could not boast of one single justice in the Supreme Court of Ghana responsible for adjudicating on cases for the whole country when the 1992 Constitution had enshrined regional balance in appointments to public office. Alhaji Mumuni Bawumia demanded to know whether the government was telling the public that there were no competent lawyers from Northern Ghana qualified to be appointed to the Supreme Court all those years since independence. President Jerry John Rawlings told the assembled gathering that Alhaji Mumuni Bawumia, had made a valid point but he would have wished that the issue had been raised privately and not to the glare of the media with GBC-TV and other TV houses capturing what he had said. Jerry John Rawlings undertook to handle the aberration in the appointments to the Supreme Court which was not representative of the whole country at the time. The first supreme Court justice from Northern Ghana was nominated, opposed by the Ghana Bar Association and the NPP, and appointed to the Court in 1995. Alhaji Mumuni Bawumia after performing his duty to the North as he had done during the colonial era and since independence, never got himself involved in who was nominated from the North to the Supreme Court. I was most humbled by Alhaji Mumuni Bawumia’s integrity and selflessness for equality in Mother Ghana’s non-discriminatory power distribution in appointments to public office as mandated by the 1992 Constitution. I have tried to follow in the footsteps of the honesty, integrity, selflessness and service of our forebearers from the NT which later became Northern Ghana after independence. This contributed to my shock and trauma when I read Dr. Bawumia’s guiding principles. Dr. Mahamudu Bawumia and his siblings during the lifetime of their father were known NDC sympathizers with Dr. Bawumia’s mother being the women’s organizer for the West Mamprusi Constituency of the NDC. Young Mahamudu after his father had arranged with President Rawlings for him to return home and to be employed at the Bank of Ghana in 2000 became restless in 2004 when the NDC at its delegates congress in Kumasi decided that the next NDC running mate should be a northerner and a Muslim. Mahamudu Bawumia lobbied behind the scenes with Jerry John Rawlings to be nominated, as I was informed by the late President, whilst at the Bank of Ghana but lost out. The choice was for Professor Mills to make and not former President Rawlings. Nana Akufo-Addo had identified and groomed the restless and ambitious Dr. Mahamudu Bawumia whilst he was at the Bank of Ghana and lobbying to become the next Vice Presidential candidate to the NDC and the NPP simultaneously. The established loyalists of the NPP tradition objected to Nana Akufo-Addo’s proposal to make Dr. Bawumia his running mate for the 2008 elections but lost the contest once Nana Akufo-Addo won the presidential primaries to represent the NPP in those elections. The process of grooming, cloning, and the socialization of Dr. Bawumia as Nana Akufo-Addo’s poodle began leading to the sharing of the similar governance principles Bawumia espoused at the Walewale rally. Nana Akufo-Addo has so succeeded in grooming Dr. Bawumia in his own character and image that he can rest assured that when Dr. Bawumia succeeds him as President the fruits of “Ohene sƐ wo foro akoŋwa yi na sƐ wo aŋya sika a, wↄ bƐka sƐ wo yƐ okwasanpa ni”, however, that does NOT mean that ONLY ... [name] and ... [name] alone should make ALL the money ...the money must spread” will be protected from auditing for his family, friends and cronies under his regime to sleep in peace. The choice that faces the electorate on 7 December 2024 is, therefore, to vote Mahamudu Bawumia as Nana Akufo-Addo’s anointed successor and continue suffering under the create loot and share principle they both hold in common or vote for change to enable probity and accountability as demanded by the Constitution to prevail. I cannot as a person born in the then NT recommend Dr. Mahamudu Bawumia as a person with the trait of honesty, integrity and selfless service exhibited by our forebearers from the NT to the Republic of Ghana to be elected on 7 December 2024 as President symbolizing a representation of northerners on an NPP ticket for Ghana. Dr. Mahamudu Bawumia is not only an opportunist and pretender, he has lost track of the high moral character associated with his own biological family and the forebearers of Northern Ghana. The Dr. Mahamudu Bawumia principle of “That is why we say, if your mother is at the funeral, you cannot be denied TZ (Tuo Zaafi). You will just be enjoying TZ with good soup every day” is inconsistent with and contravenes the Presidential Oath which Mahamudu Bawumia took as Vice-President which from his own Walewale confession he will abuse again should the electorate vote for him on 7 December 2024. Ghana needs a President from one of the two dominant political parties who can audit the economic mess the Nana Akufo-Addo/Bawumia inept government is going to leave behind. I have demonstrated hereinbefore that Dr. Mahamudu Bawumia is a clone and poodle of the incumbent President and is incapable of doing such an audit. With Dr. Mahamudu Bawumia, it is the same old wine in a new bottle! We may as well put lipstick on a pig, as the saying goes. John Dramani Mahama is not a saint, but he is nobody’s poodle. He has the experience as a former President to audit the mess the Nana Akufo-Addo/ Bawumia government will leave behind. I have had problems with John Dramani Mahama in the past which are documented on my website. The constitutional situation on our hands, however, demands pragmatism to ensure probity and accountability after an eight year tenure of government. We need a candidate who can command a sizeable parliamentary representation to actualize an audit of the previous government. John Dramani Mahama whose audit Nana Akufo-Addo fears ought to be the best bet for the integrity of the 1992 Constitution in our present circumstances. The 1992 Constitution does not enshrine dynasty or inheritance by cronyism, that is why the electorate should aim for a change in government on 7 December 2024 to defend and preserve the Constitution of our Fourth Republic. Ghana must always come first! Martin A. B. K. Amidu 3 December 2024
NonePresident-elect Donald Trump's pick for intelligence chief Tulsi Gabbard faced fresh scrutiny Monday on Capitol Hill about her proximity to Russian-ally Syria amid the sudden collapse of that country's hardline Assad rule. Gabbard ignored shouted questions about her 2017 visit to war-torn Syria as she ducked into one of several private meetings with senators who are being asked to confirm Trump's unusual nominees. But the Democrat-turned-Republican Army National Reserve lieutenant colonel delivered a statement in which she reiterated her support for Trump's America First approach to national security and a more limited U.S. military footprint overseas. “I want to address the issue that’s in the headlines right now: I stand in full support and wholeheartedly agree with the statements that President Trump has made over these last few days with regards to the developments in Syria,” Gabbard said exiting a Senate meeting. The incoming president’s Cabinet and top administrative choices are dividing his Republican allies and drawing concern, if not full opposition, from Democrats and others. Not just Gabbard, but other Trump nominees including Pentagon pick Pete Hegseth, were back at the Capitol ahead of what is expected to be volatile confirmation hearings next year. The incoming president is working to put his team in place for an ambitious agenda of mass immigrant deportations, firing federal workers and rollbacks of U.S. support for Ukraine and NATO allies. “We’re going to sit down and visit, that’s what this is all about,” said Sen. Mike Rounds, R-S.D., as he welcomed Gabbard into his office. Meanwhile, Defense Secretary pick Hegseth appeared to be picking up support from once-skeptical senators, the former Army National Guard major denying sexual misconduct allegations and pledging not to drink alcohol if he is confirmed. The president-elect's choice to lead the FBI, Kash Patel, who has written extensively about locking up Trump's foes and proposed dismantling the Federal Bureau of Investigation, launched his first visits with senators Monday. “I expect our Republican Senate is going to confirm all of President Trump’s nominees,” said Sen. Tom Cotton, R-Ark., on social media. Despite widespread concern about the nominees' qualifications and demeanors for the jobs that are among the highest positions in the U.S. government, Trump's team is portraying the criticism against them as nothing more than political smears and innuendo. Nearly 100 former senior U.S. diplomats and intelligence and national security officials have urged Senate leaders to schedule closed-door hearings to allow for a full review of the government’s files on Gabbard. Trump's allies have described the criticisms of Hegseth in particular as similar to those lodged against Brett Kavanaugh, the former president's Supreme Court nominee who denied a sexual assault allegation and went on to be confirmed during Trump's first term in office. Said Sen. Lindsey Graham, R-S.C., about Hegseth: “Anonymous accusations are trying to destroy reputations again. We saw this with Kavanaugh. I won’t stand for it.” One widely watched Republican, Sen. Joni Ernst of Iowa, herself a former Army National Guard lieutenant colonel and sexual assault survivor who had been criticized by Trump allies for her cool reception to Hegseth, appeared more open to him after their follow-up meeting Monday. “I appreciate Pete Hegseth’s responsiveness and respect for the process,” Ernst said in a statement. Ernst said that following “encouraging conversations,” he had committed to selecting a senior official who will "prioritize and strengthen my work to prevent sexual assault within the ranks. As I support Pete through this process, I look forward to a fair hearing based on truth, not anonymous sources.” Ernst also had praise for Patel — “He shares my passion for shaking up federal agencies" — and for Gabbard. Once a rising Democratic star, Gabbard, who represented Hawaii in Congress, arrived a decade ago in Washington, her surfboard in tow, a new generation of potential leaders. She ran unsuccessfully for president in 2020. But Gabbard abruptly left the party and briefly became an independent before joining with Trump's 2024 campaign as one of his enthusiasts, in large part over his disdain for U.S. involvement overseas and opposition to helping Ukraine battle Russia. Her visit to Syria to meet with then-President Bashar Assad around the time of Trump's first inauguration during the country's bloody civil war stunned her former colleagues and the Washington national security establishment. The U.S. had severed diplomatic relations with Syria. Her visit was seen by some as legitimizing a brutal leader who was accused of war crimes. Gabbard has defended the trip, saying it's important to open dialogue, but critics hear in her commentary echoes of Russia-fuelled talking points. Assad fled to Moscow over the weekend after Islamist rebels overtook Syria in a surprise attack, ending his family's five decades of rule. She said her own views have been shaped by “my multiple deployments and seeing firsthand the cost of war and the threat of Islamist terrorism.” Gabbard said, “It's one of the many reasons why I appreciate President Trump’s leadership and his election, where he is fully committed, as he has said over and over, to bring about an end to wars.” Last week, the nearly 100 former officials, who served in both Democratic and Republican administrations, said in the letter to Senate leaders they were “alarmed” by the choice of Gabbard to oversee all 18 U.S. intelligence agencies. They said her past actions “call into question her ability to deliver unbiased intelligence briefings to the President, Congress, and to the entire national security apparatus.” The Office of the Director of National Intelligence was created after the Sept. 11, 2001, attacks to coordinate the nation’s intelligence agencies and act as the president’s main intelligence adviser. ___ Associated Press writer Stephen Groves contributed to this report.
Dow Jones closes above 45,000 for the first time after Jerome Powell says economy is 'remarkably good'
ALBANY, N.Y. (AP) — Jojo Uga's 2-yard touchdown run capped a 24-point fourth quarter and Albany beat Hampton 41-34 on Saturday in a season finale. Jack Iuliano recovered a fumble by Malcom May at the Hampton 24, and though it took 10 plays, Uga went in for the touchdown and the game's final lead. Malcolm Mays scored on a 25-yard run for Hampton (5-7, 2-6 Coastal Athletic Association) but the PAT was blocked and Kevon Angry ran it back for Albany (4-8, 2-6), leaving Hampton with a 34-27 lead with 10 minutes remaining. Alex Jreige's 53-yard run then tied the game. Hampton led 28-0 before Van Weber threw a 12-yard touchdown pass to Carter Moses with a couple minutes left in the first half. Albany added 10 points in the third quarter, including Jackson Parker's 38-yard touchdown catch. Nick Totten's pick-6 early in the fourth quarter got the Great Danes within 28-25. Weber threw for 184 yards with two scores and an interception. Jreige rushed for 110 yards. Robinson rushed for 80 yards and 21 carries and scored four times for Hampton, all in the first half. ___ AP college football: and . Sign up for the AP’s college football newsletter: The Associated PressHours after the publication of a bombshell report revealing “substantial evidence” that Matt Gaetz paid tens of thousands of dollars for sex, including with a 17-year-old girl, the former congressman issued a fundraising plea through his recently launched political action committee. Gaetz — who was Donald Trump ’s first pick for U.S. attorney general — is accused of violating federal and state laws against statutory rape, prostitution, illicit drug use and abusing the power of his office. The results of a years-long House Ethics Committee investigation is a “sham witch hunt — just like the ones they conducted against President Trump ,” Gaetz said in an email through his Florida Firebrand PAC Monday. “I need your help. Can you chip in any amount before midnight?” the message asked. “I need your help,” the message continued. “I’ve fought for you in Congress for eight years against the worst of the Radical Left and Uniparty. Now, they’re seeking their revenge. Can you chip in anything you can spare before midnight to help me defend myself?” The former representative from Florida resigned from Congress last month after Trump announced his intention to nominate Gaetz for the top job at the Department of Justice. Facing mounting scrutiny over allegations at the center of the ethics committee probe, Gaetz withdrew his name from consideration, then announced a new role as a host at right-wing outlet One America News Network . Gaetz has denied wrongdoing, and has characterized the witnesses who testified against him in the committee probe and a parallel federal investigation as not credible. “I’ve had no chance to ever confront any accusers. I’ve never been charged. I’ve never been sued,” he wrote in his fundraising message. “Instead, House Ethics posted a report online that I have no opportunity to debate or rebut as a former member of the body.” The ethics committee’s report details Gaetz’s alleged conduct beginning shortly after he was sworn into the House, including a sexual encounter with a high school student in 2017 when he was 35 years old. He denied ever having “sexual contact” with someone under 18 years old, and he repeated his statement that his 30s “were an era of working very hard — and playing hard too.” “It’s embarrassing, though not criminal. I live a different life now,” he added. Through the PAC, Gaetz “hopes to keep Florida Red while supporting President Trump’s mission to Make America Great Again,” according to a description on the PAC’s website and in fundraising messages. “Matt is standing strong for Florida’s values and America’s future,” the description says. “As Chairman of the Florida Firebrand PAC, Matt will fight alongside President Trump to protect the values that make this nation great.”
Trump calls Florida meeting with PM Trudeau productive amid stiff tariff threatLPGA, USGA to require players to be assigned female at birth or transition before puberty
Dodgers' Shohei Ohtani Unlikely to Pitch in Opener Amid Injury Rehab, per Roberts
As the crypto market ushers in a new year, investors are keeping a close eye on promising projects like Lightchain AI, Internet Computer (ICP), and Solana (SOL). Leading the conversation is the Lightchain AI Presale , which is already making waves with its groundbreaking AI-focused blockchain ecosystem. Meanwhile, Internet Computer (ICP) continues to push boundaries in decentralized web solutions, and Solana (SOL) holds its position as a top choice for high-performance blockchain applications. In this article, we’ll explore whether it’s the right time to buy, sell, or hold these standout altcoins, helping you craft a smart investment strategy in today’s ever-evolving market. Lightchain AI- Analyzing Its Potential and Market Trends Lightchain AI (LCAI) is a new kind of digital money that mixes smart machines with the block chain tech, wanting to change how apps work and how groups are run. Its special Proof of Intelligence (PoI) way gives rewards to parts for doing useful smart machine tasks which help͏s make the network better and last longer. Also, the Artificial Intelligence Virtual Machine (AIVM) offers a setting just for doing smart machine jobs making it easier and bigger for decentralized apps. Right now, in the early sale stage, LCAI coins cost $0.004, with $5.1 million collected, showing good trust from the market. Experts think there is a lot of growth likely, with some guesses saying it could go up to $2 by 2025; this means big gains for first buyers. Lightchain AI's aim on real world uses in areas like health care, money, and supply chain manage put it as a flexible player in market. Its promise to free governance make sure the platform grows with community needs, helping clear sight and togetherness. Lightchain AI's fresh way and smart plan make it a good choice for people who want to mix up their investments in the changing world of digital money. Internet Computer (ICP)- Is It a Buy, Sell, or Hold? Internet Computer (ICP) is a Layer-1 blockchain developed by the DFINITY Foundation, aiming to decentralize the internet by enabling backend software hosting and transforming it into a global, decentralized computer. As of December 2024, ICP is trading at approximately $10.31, reflecting a significant decline from its all-time high of $750.73 in May 2021. Analysts project a gradual price increase, with forecasts suggesting a potential rise to around $16.37 by the end of 2024 and up to $26.40 by 2025. Given the current market conditions and future projections, investors might consider holding ICP, monitoring its development and adoption within the blockchain ecosystem. Solana (SOL)- Evaluating Its Position in the Altcoin Market Solana (SOL) is a high-performance Layer 1 blockchain renowned for its rapid transaction speeds and low fees, making it a formidable competitor to Ethereum. As of December 2024, SOL is trading at approximately $189.41, reflecting a significant appreciation over the past year. In November 2024, Solana reached an all-time high of $260, driven by increased adoption and a surge in decentralized finance (DeFi) and non-fungible token (NFT) activities on its platform. Despite facing challenges, including network outages and regulatory scrutiny, Solana has demonstrated resilience, maintaining a strong developer community and expanding its ecosystem. Analysts remain optimistic about Solana's future, citing its technological advancements and growing user base as key factors that could drive further growth. Investors should monitor Solana's development trajectory and market dynamics to make informed decisions regarding its potential in the altcoin market. So, Lightchain AI, Internet Computer (ICP), and Solana (SOL) continue to be viable options for investors looking to tap into the potential of promising altcoins. Lightchain AI presale is already underway, while ICP and SOL remain stable choices for long-term investments. https://lightchain.ai https://lightchain.ai/lightchain-whitepaper.pdf https://x.com/LightchainAI https://t.me/LightchainProtocol Join our WhatsApp Channel to get the latest news, exclusives and videos on WhatsApp _____________ Disclaimer: Analytics Insight does not provide financial advice or guidance. Also note that the cryptocurrencies mentioned/listed on the website could potentially be scams, i.e. designed to induce you to invest financial resources that may be lost forever and not be recoverable once investments are made. You are responsible for conducting your own research (DYOR) before making any investments. Read more here.Don’t Expect Donald Trump to Tackle America’s Record Homelessness
Jimmy Carter passes at 100( MENAFN - AFP) Asia Stocks mostly fell in thin holiday trade on Monday after tech losses killed off the traditional year-end lift on Wall Street at the end of last week. The "Santa Claus rally" got off to a good start but US stocks then fell across the board on Friday, with the S&P 500 and the nasdaq both dropping more than one percent. Tech stocks led the way, with Elon Musk's electric car giant Tesla closing around five percent lower and AI chipmaker Nvidia shedding around two percent. Weighing on investor sentiment were worries about the pace of US interest rate cuts and possible higher import tariffs under incoming US president Donald Trump. "As US stock markets concluded with a downturn on Friday, Asia-Pacific markets are bracing for a slippery penultimate trading day of 2024," said Stephen Innes at SPI Asset Management. "With US (bond) yields climbing and liquidity essentially non-existent, there's always the potential for outsized moves. This comes during a critical phase of year-end rebalancing, intensified by hefty equity positions across portfolios," Innes said in a note. In Tokyo, the Nikkei was down 0.75 percent at 40,020.00 points on the last day of trading until January 6. The yen was little changed after hitting 158.08 against the dollar on Thursday, the lowest in almost six months. That came after Bank of Japan governor Kazuo Ueda failed to give a clear signal on a possible interest rate increase next month. In Seoul, Jeju Air shares tumbled more than eight percent after one of its planes crashed in South Korea on Sunday, killing all but two of the 181 people on board. South Korea's transport ministry said on Monday it was "reviewing plans to conduct a special inspection on (Boeing) B737-800 aircraft" after the crash. South Korea was also hit with further political turmoil, with authorities issuing an arrest warrant for suspended President Yoon Suk Yeol. Yoon briefly imposed martial law this month and was then impeachment by parliament. Lawmakers also impeached his acting successor Han Duck-soo last week. Chinese stocks also opened lower on Monday, with the benchmark Shanghai Composite Index down 0.09 percent at 3,397.12. China's purchasing managers' index (PMI) for manufacturing was due on Tuesday. The reading was expected to stay at 50.3, above the 50 line dividing expansion and contraction, according to Bloomberg. - Key figures around 0300 GMT - Tokyo - Nikkei 225: DOWN 0.75 percent at 40,020.00 points Hong Kong - Hang Seng Index: DOWN 0.40 percent at 20,001.00 Shanghai - Composite: DOWN 0.1 percent at 3,397.12 Euro/dollar: DOWN at $1.0423 from $1.0429 on Friday Pound/dollar: DOWN at $1.2577 from $1.2579 Dollar/yen: DOWN at 157.82 yen from 157.89 yen Euro/pound: UP at 82.88 pence from 82.87 pence West Texas Intermediate: UP at $70.63 per barrel Brent North Sea Crude: UP at $74.23 per barrel MENAFN29122024000143011026ID1109040187 Legal Disclaimer: MENAFN provides the information “as is” without warranty of any kind. We do not accept any responsibility or liability for the accuracy, content, images, videos, licenses, completeness, legality, or reliability of the information contained in this article. If you have any complaints or copyright issues related to this article, kindly contact the provider above.
World reacts to the death of former President Jimmy Carter
European markets head for negative open after France's government loses confidence voteNVIDIA: A Success Story in Tech Investment Over the past 15 years, NVIDIA has shown extraordinary performance in the stock market, beating market averages and showcasing the power of compounded returns. For those who trusted NVIDIA’s potential early on, the financial rewards have been significant. A 15-Year Financial Transformation If you had invested $1000 in NVIDIA stock 15 years ago, your investment would have grown tremendously. With the stock price currently standing at $139.78, that initial investment would now be valued at an impressive $311,254.16. This remarkable growth highlights NVIDIA’s average annual return of 46.28%, outperforming the market by an annualized 34.46%. Market Reach and Influence Today, NVIDIA boasts a substantial market capitalization of $3.42 trillion, underlining its impressive growth and influence in the tech industry. This market cap reflects the company’s enduring success and its pivotal role in technology innovation. The Lesson of Compounded Returns The story of NVIDIA over the past 15 years underscores an essential investment lesson: the profound impact of compounded returns over time. While past performance does not guarantee future results, NVIDIA’s trajectory illustrates how a well-chosen investment can yield significant financial gains. Investors are reminded of the potential rewards of long-term investing, as demonstrated by NVIDIA’s exceptional journey from a pioneering tech company to a market leader. The Astonishing Rise of NVIDIA: Insights and Innovations NVIDIA’s Revolutionary Innovations: Shaping the Tech Landscape In the ever-evolving tech industry, NVIDIA has not only outperformed market expectations but has also set new benchmarks in innovation and technological advancement. From graphics processing units (GPUs) to artificial intelligence (AI) applications, NVIDIA’s innovations continue to redefine the boundaries of technology. Key Innovations: Driving the Future of Computing NVIDIA has been a trailblazer in several cutting-edge technologies. Their GPUs have revolutionized computer graphics, making them a staple in gaming, professional visualization, and data centers. Additionally, NVIDIA’s AI-powered platforms, such as the NVIDIA DRIVE for autonomous vehicles and NVIDIA Clara for healthcare, showcase their commitment to transforming industries through innovation. Market Analysis: Trends and Predictions NVIDIA’s ability to anticipate and capitalize on emerging trends has been instrumental in its success. The global demand for AI and machine learning technologies is surging, with NVIDIA positioned at the forefront of this growth. The company’s focus on developing AI infrastructure indicates a promising future, with analysts predicting continued expansion in sectors such as autonomous driving, robotics, and cloud computing. Compatibility and Ecosystem: Enhancing User Experience Another aspect contributing to NVIDIA’s success is its robust compatibility within a diverse tech ecosystem. The company’s products seamlessly integrate with various hardware and software platforms, resulting in a comprehensive suite of solutions. This compatibility enhances user experience, making NVIDIA a preferred choice across multiple sectors. Security Aspects: Ensuring Robust Protection With technology becoming integral to infrastructure and security, NVIDIA places a strong emphasis on safeguards within its products. The company invests heavily in security protocols, ensuring that its products meet the highest standards of data protection and cybersecurity. This focus on security enhances trust and reliability among NVIDIA’s vast customer base. Sustainability: Committed to a Greener Future In line with global sustainability trends, NVIDIA is actively pursuing eco-friendly initiatives. The company is committed to reducing its carbon footprint and has implemented greener practices across its operations to promote sustainability in the tech industry. This dedication not only benefits the environment but also aligns NVIDIA’s goals with global environmental standards. The Bottom Line: A Promising Road Ahead Looking forward, NVIDIA’s strategy indicates a commitment to harnessing technology for societal benefit, continuing its legacy of innovation and unparalleled growth. For investors and tech enthusiasts, NVIDIA stands as a beacon of ingenuity, adaptability, and sustainable progress in a rapidly changing world. For more insights into NVIDIA’s journey and innovations, visit their official website .
NoneMichigan Takes Final Shot at Ohio State Following Rivalry Game
Could comeback spark winning streak for West Virginia or NCCU?Number of seats: 3 Seats filled: 0 7.30pm: Here are the results for Count 3 in the Dublin Fingal East constituency: 6.30pm: In the second count for Dublin Fingal East, the total electorate stood at 62,465, with 38,055 voters participating. Of these, 156 ballots were spoiled, leaving a valid poll of 37,899 votes. The quota required for candidates to be elected was 9,475 votes. Ben Gilroy of Liberty Republic was eliminated in this count. Redistribution of votes commenced from Independent candidates Fergal O'Connell and Tony 'Theo' Donnelly. Results of the second count for Fingal East: 5.49pm: Here is the first count results for Fingal East Electorate : 62,465 Total Poll: 38,055 Spoiled: 156 Valid Poll: 37,899 Quota: 9,475 Candidates' Results on Count 1: Outgoing Housing Minister Darragh O'Brien arrived to cheers of celebration at the Fingal East count centre Tallies indicate first major wins and casualties in tight race 4.30pm: Outgoing Housing Minister and Fianna Fáil TD Darragh O’Brien arrived to a warm welcome at the Fingal East count centre. He is expected to top the poll with around 23.5pc of the first preference vote. "I have the best team in the country here,” he said. "We are really absolutely delighted with the results. I spoke to the Tánaiste about an hour ago and Fianna Fáil are performing well. "We are hoping the first count here will be done very shortly but it’s amazing to receive nearly 25pc of first preference votes in this area. "I think this is the start of a really significant chapter of history for Fianna Fáil and in Dublin in particular we are doing really well, and it looks like we will retain what we have and possibly gain three or four additional seats. "I want to thank all the Dubs who have come out and supported us and we acknowledge there is many more challenges that need to be addressed,” he added. Asked if he wants to continue with his work as Housing Minister, he said that if he is fortunate to be a part of a government he will serve “in whatever capacity” he’s asked to serve in. Outgoing Housing Minister Darragh O'Brien will likely be elected on the second count 1pm: The first count is well underway with rumours that we will get results after 3pm. 11:05am: 85pc of boxes so far have been tallied here in Fingal East. 100pc of the boxes from Malahide have been tallied and 92pc of Swords has also been sorted through. 10.45am: Box sorting is progressing very well in the Dublin Fingal East constituency at the National Show Centre. With an electorate of 62,934, a total of 96 boxes are to be counted. So far, just under 44pc of the boxes have been processed, with tallies from Malahide 59pc, Donabate 50pc, Portmarnock 21.43pc, and Swords 42.5pc. Boxes in Kinsealy haven’t been opened yet. The current TDs, Darragh O'Brien (FF) from Malahide and Duncan Smith (LAB) from Swords, are performing strongly with 3,970 and 2,711 first preference votes, respectively. Fianna Fail staff are confident that O'Brien, the outgoing housing minister, will hold on to his seat and will likely be elected upon the first count. The race for the third and final seat is tightly contested among Fine Gael’s Alan Farrell from Malahide, Sinn Féin’s Ann Graves from Swords, and Social Democrats councillor Joan Hopkins. Early tallies suggest that Independent 4 Change Councillor Dean Mulligan is lagging behind. There have been 92 spoiled votes so far. The first count is well underway in Fingal East at 2.30pm TALLIES SO FAR 10am: Early tallies are giving us indications that the current TDs in this constituency notably Fianna Fáil’s Minister for Housing Darragh O’Brien is looking strong to hold onto his seat. Leading the race at the moment is Fianna Fáil TD Darragh O’Brien with 2,381 first preference votes, he is currently making up 22pc of the total votes counted so far. Following him is current Labour TD Duncan Smith who has a total of 1,885 first preference votes making up 17.4pc of the total votes so far. In third place is Sinn Féin’s Ann Graves who is looking to snap up a seat, she has 1,561 first preference votes so far. Right behind her is current TD Fine Gael’s Alan Farrell who may have to battle Ms Graves for the final seat in the constituency. Also doing well is Social Democrats candidate Joan Hopkins with 10.9pc of the first preference votes counted so far. Votes by candidate in Fingal East at 10am 9am: Boxes have opened in Fingal East and the counting of first preference votes has gotten underway.