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slot casino sites By Mike Stone SIMI VALLEY, California (Reuters) -The United States unveiled a $988 million aid package of new arms and equipment to Ukraine for its ongoing fight against Russia's invasion on Saturday. The package nearly halves the available $2.21 billion remaining in Ukraine Security Assistance Initiative as the Biden administration works to commit to buying weapons from industry, rather than pulling from U.S. weapons stocks. The USAI funds will be put toward buying ammunition for High Mobility Artillery Rocket Systems (HIMARS) made by Lockheed Martin as well as drones and spare parts to maintain artillery equipment, according to the Pentagon. Announcement of the package came on Saturday as the defense industry and policy makers meet at the annual Reagan National Defense Forum in California. The Biden administration has often used Presidential Drawdown Authority, which authorizes President Joe Biden to transfer excess articles and services from U.S. stocks without congressional approval during an emergency. The USAI funds are separate and will go to purchase new weapons from industry. The Biden administration still has about $6 billion of congressionally granted presidential drawdown authority, including funds authorized in 2024 and funds discovered by the Pentagon after overestimating the value of arms shipped to Ukraine. Since the Russian invasion in February 2022, the U.S. has committed more than $62 billion worth of security assistance to Ukraine. (Reporting by Mike Stone in Simi Valley, California; Editing by Sandra Maler)The Miami Dolphins have no choice. They have to win their final two games for their slim playoff hopes to come to fruition. Accordingly, they'll need all hands on deck for that contest. One of their biggest names appears to have a chance at a potential return in Cleveland this Sunday. Jaylen Waddle returned to the practice field on Thursday, the team's first day back on the field. The Dolphins did not practice on Wednesday due to the Christmas holiday, so practice participation were just an estimation. Waddle was listed as a "did not practice". However, he returned to the practice field on Thursday in a limited fashion. Waddle suffered a knee injury during the Dolphins' 20-12 loss to the Houston Texans . He was unable to work in and practice last week, and he ended up missing Miami's 29-17 win over the San Francisco 49ers. In Waddle's absence, Malik Washington stepped in and led all wide receivers with 58 snaps against the Niners. Washington finished with 3 catches for 28 yards. River Cracraft logged 18 snaps and Erik Ezukanma had 7. However, it goes without saying that Miami's offense goes up another gear with Waddle back on the field. We'll find out on Friday when the final injury report is issued if Waddle is cleared, or if he has an injury designation going into the weekend. This article first appeared on A to Z Sports and was syndicated with permission.

Gap CFO Katrina O'Connell sells $2.23 million in stockCARBONDALE, Ill. (AP) — Ali Abdou Dibba had 19 points in Southern Illinois' 73-70 win over Southern Indiana on Saturday. Dibba added three steals for the Salukis (4-6, 0-1 Missouri Valley Conference). Jarrett Hensley added 16 points while shooting 4 for 10 (1 for 4 from 3-point range) and 7 of 10 from the free-throw line while he also had 11 rebounds. Kennard Davis finished 5 of 10 from the field to finish with 11 points. Stephen Olowoniyi finished with 24 points for the Screaming Eagles (4-5). Jayland Randall added 22 points and two steals for Southern Indiana. Jack Mielke finished with six points and six rebounds. The Associated Press created this story using technology provided by Data Skrive and data from Sportradar .

NEW ORLEANS (AP) — The largest artificial intelligence data center ever built by Facebook’s parent company Meta is coming to northeast Louisiana, the company said Wednesday, bringing hopes that the $10 billion facility will transform an economically neglected corner of the state. Republican Gov. Jeff Landry called it “game-changing” for his state's expanding tech sector, yet some environmental groups have raised concerns over the center's reliance on fossil fuels — and whether the plans for new natural gas power to support it could lead to higher energy bills in the future for Louisiana residents. Javascript is required for you to be able to read premium content. Please enable it in your browser settings.

An archbishop's knock formally restores Notre Dame to life as winds howl and heads of state look on‘World at dawn of third nuclear age’, armed forces chief warns

Manmohan Singh, the visionary reformer who shaped modern IndiaFrom the Publisher | The Role of a Teacher

When you buy through our links, Business Insider may earn an affiliate commission. Learn more Sophomore year has finally arrived in the long-awaited third season of The Sex Lives of College Girls. We've compiled everything you need to know about where to watch The Sex Lives of College Girls, including global live streaming options. Set at the fictitious Essex College, The Sex Lives of College Girls follows four students who become unlikely friends after being roomed together in the same suite in their freshman year. The comedy, which first premiered in 2021, comes from Mindy Kaling and Justin Noble. The series stars Pauline Chalamet, Alyah Chanelle Scott, Amrit Kaur, and Reneé Rapp, although it was announced that Rapp (who starred in the Mean Girls musical movie earlier this year and has spent much of 2023 and 2024 focusing on her music) would be departing the series in the third season. She'll still appear in some episodes in a recurring capacity before leaving, according to Variety , but it's unknown how or exactly when this season Rapp will officially depart. Fans from around the world can tune into the latest season of The Sex Lives of College Girls. Keep reading to learn how to watch the new episodes, and make sure to check out the trailer below. See also: Where to watch Yellowstone | Where to watch St. Denis Medical | Where to watch Georgie & Mandy's First Marriage US: Max (from $10/month) CA: Crave (from $10/month) UK: ITVX (Free, seasons 1-2 only) AU: Binge (one-week free trial) Access accounts anywhere: ExpressVPN (30-day money-back guarantee) New episodes: Thursdays at 9 p.m. ET / 6 p.m. PT Where to watch The Sex Lives of College Girls in the US All seasons of The Sex Lives of College Girls are available to stream on Max in the US. New episodes from Season 3 drop on Thursdays at 9 p.m. ET / 6 p.m. PT. The season premieres on November 21, 2024, and will last ten episodes, with a finale scheduled for January 23, 2025. Subscriptions start at $10/month for the ad-supported tier, but you can upgrade to an ad-free experience for $17/month. If you're planning to hang onto your subscription for a while, you can find some savings by subscribing to an annual plan. Max is a premium service for fans of prestige television, iconic films, and unscripted programs. Prices start at $10 a month for ad-supported, $17 for ad-free, and $21 if you want to view in 4K. Where to watch The Sex Lives of College Girls in Canada Crave is the streaming home of The Sex Lives of College Girls in Canada. The streaming service currently hosts the first two seasons and will drop new episodes of Season 3 on Thursdays. The service starts at $10/month for the Basic ad-supported plan. For an ad-free experience, you'll need to upgrade to Premium for $22/month since the middle Standard plan still has ads. Where to watch The Sex Lives of College Girls in the UK Seasons 1 and 2 of The Sex Lives of College Girls are available to stream on ITVX in the UK. This is a free streaming option that only requires account creation to use. A Season 3 premiere date hasn't been announced yet, but we'll keep this page updated with any news. Where to watch The Sex Lives of College Girls in Australia The Sex Lives of College Girls streams on Binge in Australia. Basic subscriptions start at $10/month and include a seven-day free trial for new customers. You can upgrade to a Standard plan for $19/month for an ad-free experience. Seasons 1 and 2 are currently available to stream, and new episodes of Season 3 will become available on Fridays. How to watch The Sex Lives of College Girls from anywhere If you're traveling away from home when a new episode drops, you can still keep up with your usual streaming methods with the help of a VPN (virtual private network). VPNs are handy cybersecurity tools that enable people to change their virtual location, allowing their go-to apps and websites to function just like they would back home. Most of the services we've highlighted (the UK aside) require country-specific payment methods, so this option will work best for people who are just traveling abroad at the moment. If you're not sure where to start when it comes to VPNs, ExpressVPN is a great entry point. It's a user-friendly option with a 30-day money-back guarantee and tons of other perks, which we outline in our ExpressVPN review . With its consistent performance, reliable security, and expansive global streaming features, ExpressVPN is the best VPN out there, excelling in every spec and offering many advanced features that makes it exceptional. Better yet, you can save up to 49% and get an extra three months for free today. The Sex Lives of College Girls Season 3 trailer Max dropped the official Season 3 trailer at the end of October. Set to Chappell Roan's "Super Graphic Ultra Modern Girl," the video shows what Kimberly, Bela, Whitney, Leighton, and their friends are up to as Sophomore year finally begins. Check out the full trailer below: Note: The use of VPNs is illegal in certain countries, and using VPNs to access region-locked streaming content might constitute a breach of the terms of use for certain services. Insider does not endorse or condone the illegal use of VPNs. Streaming services How to watch your favorite films, TV, sports VPN services for legal streaming DealsPARIS — Howling winds couldn’t stop Notre Dame Cathedral ’s heart from beating again. With three resounding knocks on its doors by Paris Archbishop Laurent Ulrich, wielding a specially designed crosier carved from fire-scorched beams, the monument roared back to life Saturday evening. For the first time since a devastating blaze nearly destroyed it in 2019, the towering Gothic masterpiece reopened for worship, its rebirth marked by song, prayer, and awe beneath its soaring arches. The ceremony, initially planned to begin on the forecourt, was moved entirely inside due to unusually fierce December winds sweeping across the Île de la Cité, flanked by the River Seine. Yet the occasion lost none of its splendor. Inside the luminous nave, choirs sang psalms, and the cathedral’s mighty organ, silent for nearly five years, thundered to life in a triumphant interplay of melodies. People are also reading... Bill Haisten: There still is no resolution, but a Gundy-OSU divorce seems imminent Bill Haisten: As OSU regents meet, Mike Gundy’s contract should be a hot topic How did Oklahoma flip Cowboys QB commit less than 48 hours before signing day? Court 'bulldozes' tribal law in Tulsa case over jurisdiction, attorney says In a flash, OU loses a receiver to the portal and another from its 2025 recruiting class Berry Tramel: Jackson Arnold shows OU should save its high-end shopping for the portal Ben Arbuckle is the new OU offensive coordinator. Have Sooners found the next Lincoln Riley? Deep into Week 2, new names emerge in Tulsa football coaching search These 11 new restaurants are coming to the Tulsa area soon — and 8 that just opened 10 potential candidates to replace Kasey Dunn as offensive coordinator at Oklahoma State Meet Oklahoma's complete 2025 class. 5-star OT commits to Oklahoma Bill Haisten: Cooper Parker and the Bixby Spartans are at home in a new, $12M facility Stitt fires Cabinet secretary at odds with governor's stance on poultry lawsuit Cooper Parker secures Bixby's seventh consecutive state title in OT thriller versus Owasso Jenks football coach Keith Riggs resigns; DC Adam Gaylor named Trojans head coach The restoration, a spectacular achievement in just five years for a structure that took nearly two centuries to build, is seen as a moment of triumph for French President Emmanuel Macron, who championed the ambitious timeline — and a welcome respite from his domestic political woes. The evening’s celebration, attended by 1,500 dignitaries, including President-elect Donald Trump, US first lady Jill Biden, Britain’s Prince William, and Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy, underscored Notre Dame’s enduring role as both a spiritual and cultural beacon. Observers see the event as Macron's, and his intention to pivot it into a fully fledged diplomatic gathering, while highlighting France’s ability to unite on the global stage despite internal political crises. As the cathedral’s largest bell, the 13-ton Emmanuel — which was not named after the French leader — tolled into the Paris night, signaling the start of the ceremony, the crowd inside Notre Dame fell into an expectant hush. Emmanuel, a legacy of King Louis XIV, had rung through centuries of French history, and its peal now resonated as a call to witness another epochal moment. Outside the cathedral’s monumental doors, Ulrich raised his fire-scarred crosier. “Brothers and sisters, let us enter now into Notre Dame,” he declared. “It is she who accompanies us on our path to peace.” With the congregation of over 2,500 people watching in silence, Ulrich struck the floodlit doors, the base of his crosier reverberating against the wood. Inside, the choir answered with soaring hymns, their voices filling the nave. Illuminations on the cathedral facade heightened the drama. On the final strike, the heavy doors swung open, revealing the glowing interior of restored blond Lutetian limestone. Adding to the ceremony’s visual splendor, Ulrich and the clergy wore vibrant liturgical garments designed by French fashion designer Jean-Charles de Castelbajac. Known for his signature pop-art aesthetic, Castelbajac created 2,000 colorful pieces for 700 celebrants, blending modern elements with medieval touches. Flooded with light and song, the cathedral came alive in a moment of breathtaking spectacle. What had been a silent, soot-blackened ruin five years ago now blazed with renewed vitality, marking the culmination of a nearly $1 billion global effort to resurrect it. Speaking inside the cathedral, Macron expressed “gratitude” Saturday to those who saved, helped, and rebuilt Notre Dame, his voice reverberating through the nave. “I stand before you ... to express the gratitude of the French nation,” he said, before voices flooded the space with song, harmonies not heard in over five years. “Tonight, the bells of Notre Dame are ringing again. And in a moment, the organ will awaken,” sending the “music of hope” cascading through the luminous interior to Parisians, France, and the world beyond, he said. The celebration is expected to give a much-needed boost to the embattled French leader, whose prime minister was ousted this week, plunging the nation’s politics into more turmoil. Macron has called Notre Dame’s reopening “a jolt of hope.” Observers say he hoped the occasion would briefly silence his critics and showcase France’s unity and resilience under his leadership — a rare moment of grace in a presidency now facing a grave crisis. Inside Notre Dame, 42,000 square meters of stonework—equivalent to six soccer pitches—gleamed anew, revealing intricate carvings and luminous limestone. Above, 2,000 oak beams, nicknamed “the forest,” restored the cathedral’s iconic spire and roof. The great organ, dormant for over five years, roared back to life like a slumbering giant. With its 7,952 pipes—ranging from pen-sized to torso-wide—and a renovated console featuring five keyboards, 115 stops, and 30 foot pedals, it responded to Archbishop Laurent Ulrich’s command: “Wake up, organ, sacred instrument.” The first low rumble grew into a triumphant symphony as four organists pulled out the stops, weaving improvised responses to the archbishop’s invocations. Eight times, Ulrich addressed the organ; eight times, its voice filled the nave with breathtaking sound. Guests marveled at the spectacle, many capturing the moment on their phones. “It’s a sense of perfection,” said François Le Page of the Notre Dame Foundation, who last saw the cathedral cloaked in scaffolding in 2021. “It was somber then. Now, it’s night and day.” The Rev. Andriy Morkvas, a Ukrainian priest who leads the Volodymyr Le Grand church in Paris, reflected on his first visit to Notre Dame in over a decade. “I didn’t recognize it,” he said. “God is very powerful; He can change things.” He expressed hope that the cathedral’s revival could inspire peace in his homeland, drawing strength from the presence of Ukraine’s president. “I think that will have a big impact,” he said. “I hope Notre Dame and Mary will help us resolve this conflict.” The reopening of Notre Dame comes at a time of profound global unrest, with wars raging in Ukraine and the Middle East. For Catholics, Notre Dame’s rector said the cathedral “carries the enveloping presence of the Virgin Mary, a maternal and embracing presence.′′ “It is a magnificent symbol of unity,” Olivier Ribadeau Dumas said. “Notre Dame is not just a French monument — it is a magnificent sign of hope.” The international range of dignitaries coming to Paris underline the cathedral’s significance as a symbol of shared heritage and peace. Canadian visitor Noelle Alexandria, who had traveled to Paris for the reopening, was struck by the cathedral’s ability to inspire. “She’s been nearly ruined before, but she always comes back,” Alexandria said. “Not many of us could say the same after such tragedy, but Notre Dame can.” Guests entered through Notre Dame’s iconic western façade, whose arched portals adorned with biblical carvings were once a visual guide for medieval believers. Above the central Portal of the Last Judgment, the Archangel Michael is depicted weighing souls, as demons attempt to tip the scales. These stone figures, designed to inspire both awe and fear, set the stage for a ceremony steeped in history. Inside, the hum of hundreds of guests awaiting the service filled the cathedral with human sounds once more — a stark contrast to the construction din that echoed there for years. Tuners restoring the great organ often worked through the night to find the silence needed to perfect its 7,952 pipes, ranging from pen-sized to torso-wide. Notre Dame echoed to the sound of a sustained standing ovation after the showing of a short movie that documented the gargantuan rebuilding effort. Outside, the word “MERCI” — thank you — was projected against the cathedral’s iconic western facade. The movie showed the terrible wounds left by the inferno — the gaping holes torn into its vaulted ceilings and the burned roof. But that was followed by images of all types of artisans, many using traditional handicraft techniques, who collectively restored Notre Dame to look better now than ever. "We went from night to light," said one of the workers in the movie. Security will be high through the weekend, echoing measures taken during the Paris Olympics earlier this year. The Île de la Cité — the small island in the River Seine that is home to Notre Dame and the historic heart of Paris— is closed to tourists and non-residents. Police vans and barriers blocked cobblestoned streets in a large perimeter around the island, while soldiers in thick body armor and sniffer dogs patrolled embankments. A special security detail followed Trump. For many, Notre Dame’s rebirth is not just a French achievement but a global one — after the reopening, the cathedral is set to welcome 15 million visitors annually, up from 12 million before the fire.

Federal appeals court upholds law requiring sale or ban of TikTok in the US A federal appeals court panel on Friday unanimously upheld a law that could lead to a ban on TikTok as soon as next month, handing a resounding defeat to the popular social media platform as it fights for its survival in the U.S. The U.S. Court of Appeals for the District of Columbia Circuit ruled that the law - which requires TikTok to break ties with its China-based parent company ByteDance or be banned by mid-January — is constitutional, rebuffing TikTok’s challenge that the statute ran afoul of the First Amendment and unfairly targeted the platform. TikTok and ByteDance — another plaintiff in the lawsuit — are expected to appeal to the Supreme Court. Executive of Tyler Perry Studios dies when plane he was piloting crashes in Florida ATLANTA (AP) — The president of Atlanta-based Tyler Perry Studios has died when the small plane he was piloting crashed on Florida’s Gulf Coast. The studio confirmed on Saturday that Steve Mensch, its 62-year-old president and general manager, had died Friday. The crash happened in Homosassa, about 60 miles north of Tampa. Photos from the scene show the plane having come to rest upside down on a road. Mensch helped advocate for Georgia’s film tax credit of more than $1 billion a year. Perry hired Mensch to run his namesake studio in 2016. Mensch died as Perry released his war drama, “The Six Triple Eight." The film was shot at the Atlanta studio. US added a strong 227,000 jobs in November in bounce-back from October slowdown WASHINGTON (AP) — America’s job market rebounded in November, adding 227,000 workers in a solid recovery from the previous month, when the effects of strikes and hurricanes had sharply diminished employers’ payrolls. Last month’s hiring growth was up considerably from a meager gain of 36,000 jobs in October. The government also revised up its estimate of job growth in September and October by a combined 56,000. Friday’s report also showed that the unemployment rate ticked up from 4.1% in October to a still-low 4.2%. The November data provided the latest evidence that the U.S. job market remains durable even though it has lost significant momentum from the 2021-2023 hiring boom, when the economy was rebounding from the pandemic recession. Stock market today: Wall Street hits more records following a just-right jobs report NEW YORK (AP) — U.S. stocks rose to records after data suggested the job market remains solid enough to keep the economy going, but not so strong that it raises immediate worries about inflation. The S&P 500 climbed 0.2%, just enough top the all-time high set on Wednesday, as it closed a third straight winning week in what looks to be one of its best years since the 2000 dot-com bust. The Dow Jones Industrial Average dipped 0.3%, while the Nasdaq composite climbed 0.8% to set its own record. Treasury yields eased after the jobs report showed stronger hiring than expected but also an uptick in the unemployment rate. Killing of UnitedHealthcare CEO spotlights complex challenge companies face in protecting top brass NEW YORK (AP) — In an era when online anger and social tensions are increasingly directed at the businesses consumers count on, Meta last year spent $24.4 million to surround CEO Mark Zuckerberg with security. But the fatal shooting this week of UnitedHealthcare CEO Brian Thompson while walking alone on a New York City sidewalk has put a spotlight on the widely varied approaches companies take to protect their leaders against threats. And experts say the task of evaluating threats against executives and taking action to protect them is getting more difficult. One of the primary worries are loners whose rantings online are fed by others who are like-minded. It’s up to corporate security analysts to decide what represents a real threat. Days after gunman killed UnitedHealthcare's CEO, police push to ID him and FBI offers reward NEW YORK (AP) — Nearly four days after the shooting of UnitedHealthcare CEO Brian Thompson, police still do not know the gunman’s name or whereabouts or have a motive for the killing. But they have made some progress in their investigation into Wednesday's killing of the leader of the largest U.S. health insurer, including that the gunman likely left New York City on a bus soon after fleeing the scene. The also found that the gunman left something behind: a backpack that was discovered in Central Park. Police are working with the FBI, which on Friday night announced a $50,000 reward for information leading to an arrest and conviction. USDA orders nationwide testing of milk for bird flu to halt the virus The U.S. government has ordered testing of the nation’s milk supply for bird flu to better monitor the spread of the virus in dairy cows. The Agriculture Department on Friday said raw or unpasteurized milk from dairy farms and processors nationwide must be tested on request starting Dec. 16. Testing will begin in six states — California, Colorado, Michigan, Mississippi, Oregon and Pennsylvania. The move is aimed at eliminating the virus, which has infected more than 700 dairy herds in 15 states. Words on ammo in CEO shooting echo common phrase on insurer tactics: Delay, deny, defend A message left at the scene of an insurance executive’s fatal shooting echoes a phrase commonly used to describe insurer tactics to avoid paying claims. The words “deny,” “defend” and “depose” were written on the ammunition used to kill UnitedHealthcare's CEO. That's according to two officials who spoke to The Associated Press on condition of anonymity Thursday. The words are similar to the phrase “delay, deny, defend.” That's how attorneys describe insurers denying services and payment, and the title of a 2010 book critical of the industry. Police haven’t officially commented on the words. But Thompson’s shooting and the messages on the ammunition have sparked outrage on social media and elsewhere, reflecting frustration Americans have over the cost and complexity of getting care. Michigan Democrats move to protect reproductive health data before GOP takes control of House LANSING, Mich. (AP) — Democrats in Michigan are pressing to pass reproductive health care legislation before the party loses its majority with the new legislative session next year. A bill to protect digital reproductive health data including data logged on menstrual cycle tracking apps is a Democratic priority as lawmakers meet this month. Democratic women and supporters of the legislation say they are acting with new urgency before President-elect Donald Trump takes office because they don't believe his campaign promise to leave abortion to the states. The rush is also a reaction to Republicans taking control of the state House in January. Democrats kept control of the state Senate in the November election. Japan's Nippon Steel sets sights on a growing overseas market in its bid to acquire US Steel KASHIMA, Japan (AP) — The signs at Nippon Steel read: “The world through steel,” underlining why Japan’s top steelmaker is pursuing its $15 billion bid to acquire U.S. Steel. Japan's domestic market isn't growing, so Nippon Steel has its eyes on India, Southeast Asia and the United States, where populations are still growing. Nippon Steel gave reporters a tour of one of its plants in Japan on Friday. The bid for U.S. Steet is opposed by President-elect Donald Trump, President Joe Biden and American steelworkers. If the deal goes through, U.S. Steel will keep its name and its headquarters in Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania, but become subsidiary of Nippon Steel.

‘An appalling tragedy’: Tributes paid to Leinster House usher killed while cycling in CastleknockWith three resounding knocks on its doors by Paris Archbishop Laurent Ulrich, wielding a specially designed crosier carved from fire-scorched beams, the monument roared back to life Saturday evening. For the first time since a devastating blaze nearly destroyed it in 2019, the towering Gothic masterpiece reopened for worship, its rebirth marked by song, prayer, and awe beneath its soaring arches. The ceremony, initially planned to begin on the forecourt, was moved entirely inside due to unusually fierce December winds sweeping across the Île de la Cité, flanked by the River Seine. Yet the occasion lost none of its splendor. Inside the luminous nave, choirs sang psalms, and the cathedral’s mighty organ, silent for nearly five years, thundered to life in a triumphant interplay of melodies. The restoration, a spectacular achievement in just five years for a structure that took nearly two centuries to build, is seen as a moment of triumph for French President Emmanuel Macron, who championed the ambitious timeline — and a welcome respite from his domestic political woes. The evening’s celebration, attended by 1,500 dignitaries, including President-elect Donald Trump, US first lady Jill Biden, Britain’s Prince William, and Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy, underscored Notre Dame’s enduring role as both a spiritual and cultural beacon. Observers see the event as Macron's, and his intention to pivot it into a fully fledged diplomatic gathering, while highlighting France’s ability to unite on the global stage despite internal political crises. As the cathedral’s largest bell, the 13-ton Emmanuel — which was not named after the French leader — tolled into the Paris night, signaling the start of the ceremony, the crowd inside Notre Dame fell into an expectant hush. Emmanuel, a legacy of King Louis XIV, had rung through centuries of French history, and its peal now resonated as a call to witness another epochal moment. Outside the cathedral’s monumental doors, Ulrich raised his fire-scarred crosier. “Brothers and sisters, let us enter now into Notre Dame,” he declared. “It is she who accompanies us on our path to peace.” With the congregation of over 2,500 people watching in silence, Ulrich struck the floodlit doors, the base of his crosier reverberating against the wood. Inside, the choir answered with soaring hymns, their voices filling the nave. Illuminations on the cathedral facade heightened the drama. On the final strike, the heavy doors swung open, revealing the glowing interior of restored blond Lutetian limestone. Adding to the ceremony’s visual splendor, Ulrich and the clergy wore vibrant liturgical garments designed by French fashion designer Jean-Charles de Castelbajac. Known for his signature pop-art aesthetic, Castelbajac created 2,000 colorful pieces for 700 celebrants, blending modern elements with medieval touches. Flooded with light and song, the cathedral came alive in a moment of breathtaking spectacle. What had been a silent, soot-blackened ruin five years ago now blazed with renewed vitality, marking the culmination of a nearly $1 billion global effort to resurrect it. Speaking inside the cathedral, Macron expressed “gratitude” Saturday to those who saved, helped, and rebuilt Notre Dame, his voice reverberating through the nave. “I stand before you ... to express the gratitude of the French nation,” he said, before voices flooded the space with song, harmonies not heard in over five years. “Tonight, the bells of Notre Dame are ringing again. And in a moment, the organ will awaken,” sending the “music of hope” cascading through the luminous interior to Parisians, France, and the world beyond, he said. The celebration is expected to give a much-needed boost to the embattled French leader, whose prime minister was ousted this week, plunging the nation’s politics into more turmoil. Macron has called Notre Dame’s reopening “a jolt of hope.” Observers say he hoped the occasion would briefly silence his critics and showcase France’s unity and resilience under his leadership — a rare moment of grace in a presidency now facing a grave crisis. Inside Notre Dame, 42,000 square meters of stonework—equivalent to six soccer pitches—gleamed anew, revealing intricate carvings and luminous limestone. Above, 2,000 oak beams, nicknamed “the forest,” restored the cathedral’s iconic spire and roof. The great organ, dormant for over five years, roared back to life like a slumbering giant. With its 7,952 pipes—ranging from pen-sized to torso-wide—and a renovated console featuring five keyboards, 115 stops, and 30 foot pedals, it responded to Archbishop Laurent Ulrich’s command: “Wake up, organ, sacred instrument.” The first low rumble grew into a triumphant symphony as four organists pulled out the stops, weaving improvised responses to the archbishop’s invocations. Eight times, Ulrich addressed the organ; eight times, its voice filled the nave with breathtaking sound. Guests marveled at the spectacle, many capturing the moment on their phones. “It’s a sense of perfection,” said François Le Page of the Notre Dame Foundation, who last saw the cathedral cloaked in scaffolding in 2021. “It was somber then. Now, it’s night and day.” The Rev. Andriy Morkvas, a Ukrainian priest who leads the Volodymyr Le Grand church in Paris, reflected on his first visit to Notre Dame in over a decade. “I didn’t recognize it,” he said. “God is very powerful; He can change things.” He expressed hope that the cathedral’s revival could inspire peace in his homeland, drawing strength from the presence of Ukraine’s president. “I think that will have a big impact,” he said. “I hope Notre Dame and Mary will help us resolve this conflict.” The reopening of Notre Dame comes at a time of profound global unrest, with wars raging in Ukraine and the Middle East. For Catholics, Notre Dame’s rector said the cathedral “carries the enveloping presence of the Virgin Mary, a maternal and embracing presence.′′ “It is a magnificent symbol of unity,” Olivier Ribadeau Dumas said. “Notre Dame is not just a French monument — it is a magnificent sign of hope.” The international range of dignitaries coming to Paris underline the cathedral’s significance as a symbol of shared heritage and peace. Canadian visitor Noelle Alexandria, who had traveled to Paris for the reopening, was struck by the cathedral’s ability to inspire. “She’s been nearly ruined before, but she always comes back,” Alexandria said. “Not many of us could say the same after such tragedy, but Notre Dame can.” Guests entered through Notre Dame’s iconic western façade, whose arched portals adorned with biblical carvings were once a visual guide for medieval believers. Above the central Portal of the Last Judgment, the Archangel Michael is depicted weighing souls, as demons attempt to tip the scales. These stone figures, designed to inspire both awe and fear, set the stage for a ceremony steeped in history. Inside, the hum of hundreds of guests awaiting the service filled the cathedral with human sounds once more — a stark contrast to the construction din that echoed there for years. Tuners restoring the great organ often worked through the night to find the silence needed to perfect its 7,952 pipes, ranging from pen-sized to torso-wide. Notre Dame echoed to the sound of a sustained standing ovation after the showing of a short movie that documented the gargantuan rebuilding effort. Outside, the word “MERCI” — thank you — was projected against the cathedral’s iconic western facade. The movie showed the terrible wounds left by the inferno — the gaping holes torn into its vaulted ceilings and the burned roof. But that was followed by images of all types of artisans, many using traditional handicraft techniques, who collectively restored Notre Dame to look better now than ever. "We went from night to light," said one of the workers in the movie. Security will be high through the weekend, echoing measures taken during the Paris Olympics earlier this year. The Île de la Cité — the small island in the River Seine that is home to Notre Dame and the historic heart of Paris— is closed to tourists and non-residents. Police vans and barriers blocked cobblestoned streets in a large perimeter around the island, while soldiers in thick body armor and sniffer dogs patrolled embankments. A special security detail followed Trump. For many, Notre Dame’s rebirth is not just a French achievement but a global one — after the reopening, the cathedral is set to welcome 15 million visitors annually, up from 12 million before the fire.The remaining members of are to reunite onstage for a show next week at the 1100-capacity Showbox in Seattle, WA. Billed as Nudedragons, the name Soundgarden initially reunited under in 2010 (and an anagram of Soundgarden), the December 14 show will be Kim Thayil, Ben Shepherd and Matt Cameron's first together since joining Brandi Carlisle for performances of and during her show at the Gorge Amphitheatre in Gorge, WA, in 2021. "Nudedragons will be returning to the stage, and the Showbox, for the first time in 14+ years as part of the SMooCH benefit for Seattle Children’s Hospital on Saturday, December 14," say the band on social media. "Shaina Shepherd will be featured on vocals for their brief encore performance. Shepherd is a Seattle-based singer, songwriter, music educator and community organizer who released a cover of Sam Cooke's classic in 2000 accompanied by bassist Duff McKagan and drummer Chad Smith. SMooCH was started by musicians Pete and Brandy Nordstrom in 2012 after their infant son received life-saving treatment from Seattle Children’s Hospital. Previous benefit shows have starred the likes of Modest Mouse, Iron And Wine, Jason Isbell, J. Mascis, the Afghan Whigs and Redd Kross. Last year’s event generated more than $2.6 million. Tickets and VIP packages for the show, which also features McKagan, Sebadoh and Doug Martsch of Built Spill (VIP only), are already sold out. . Sign up below to get the latest from Classic Rock, plus exclusive special offers, direct to your inbox! “Over the last 10 years, I’ve been a bit disillusioned by popular music. The business sucks.” A revitalised Trent Reznor is ready to to be “back in the driver’s seat” again with a new Nine Inch Nails project “This one shifts gears from the fast and furious energy of our two recent singles”: Hear Arch Enemy put the “melodic” into “melodic death metal” on new single Blood Dynasty Live Is But A Dream...: Avenged Sevenfold announce European summer tour for 2025 Online Editor at Louder/Classic Rock magazine since 2014. 38 years in music industry, online for 25. Also bylines for: Metal Hammer, Prog Magazine, The Word Magazine, The Guardian, The New Statesman, Saga, Music365. Former Head of Music at Xfm Radio, A&R at Fiction Records, early blogger, ex-roadie, published author. Once appeared in a Cure video dressed as a cowboy, and thinks any situation can be improved by the introduction of cats. Favourite Serbian trumpeter: Dejan Petrović.

MIAMI , Dec. 26, 2024 /PRNewswire/ -- Gary Brecka , wife Sage Workinger and respective entities, IJS and TPH, today filed significant lawsuits related to their partnership with Cardone Ventures, LLC. The first complaint is a $100M defamation lawsuit filed by Brecka and Workinger against Elena Cardone , wife of Grant Cardone who co-founded 10X Health with Brecka and Workinger. It details the process by which Mrs. Cardone launched an allegedly intentional smear campaign designed to damage Brecka's reputation, including making false incendiary social media posts and nefarious public statements. The second complaint names Cardone Ventures LLC, a consulting firm claiming to help founders scale their businesses, and its CEO Brandon Dawson as defendants. The complaint details predatory efforts by Dawson and Cardone Ventures to take over 10X Health and edge out Brecka and Workinger through nefarious means and breaches of contractual agreements. Individuals who have worked with Cardone Ventures or CEO Brandon Dawson and may have information or similar complaints may call 305-603-0805 to leave confidential information for legal team review. Editor's Note #1: Copies of both complaints are included with this press release or available upon request. Exhibit information is also available upon request. Editor's Note #2: Brecka and Workinger are available for phone and on-camera interviews. Contact: Josh Merkin rbb communications (954) 789-5530 View original content to download multimedia: https://www.prnewswire.com/news-releases/renowned-human-biologist-and-longevity-expert-gary-brecka-files-100m-defamation-claim-against-elena-cardone-and-lawsuit-against-cardone-ventures-in-response-to-questionable-business-practices-302339380.html SOURCE IJS and TPH

On 11 March 2014, a short video of Natalia Poklonskaya went viral on YouTube . The footage shows Natalia as Crimea's newly appointed chief prosecutor at a press conference. Internet users, particularly Japanese and Chinese, loved Natalia Poklonskaya's baby face and created manga and anime art of her. Where is this internet sensation now? TABLE OF CONTENTS Profile Summary Natalia Poklonskaya's bio Natalia Poklonskaya's age Natalia Poklonskaya's height and weight Why is Natalia Poklonskaya famous? Natalia Poklonskaya's art and memes Educational Background Career Prosecutor, Ukraine Appointment as the Prosecutor General of Crimea Political career, Russia Diplomatic Career, Russia The campaign against Matilda Voting against the retirement bill Author: Crimean Spring: Before And After What is Natalia Poklonskaya's nickname? Who is Natalia Poklonskaya's husband? Natalia Poklonskaya's net worth Anti-War comments on the Russian invasion of Ukraine Is Natalia Poklonskaya pagan? Where is Natalia Poklonskaya now? Fast Facts about Natalia Poklonskaya Who is Natalia Poklonskaya, and how did she become a meme lord? Did the fame that followed affect her life and profession? Learn more about the Ukrainian-born Russian prosecutor. Profile Summary Natalia Poklonskaya's bio Poklonskaya is a Ukranian-born Russian lawyer currently serving as the adviser to the Prosecutor General of Russia. Natalia Poklonskaya became a meme online when a video of her at a press conference went viral. People marvelled at her appearance at the meeting. Read also Bloody Civilian responds to N200bn lawsuit over alleged defamation of Pastor Helen Ukpabio Natalia Poklonskaya's family moved to Yevpatoria, Crimea, in 1990 when she was 10. Her parents are both retired and live in Crimea. Natalia's grandfathers perished in World War II, while one of her grandmothers survived the fascist occupation. The Russian politician is 44 years old as of 2024. She was born on March 18, 1980, in Mykhailivka, Luhansk Oblast, Ukraine. How tall is Natalia Poklonskaya? Poklonskaya is 5' 6" and weighs 59 kg. Her eye colour is blue, and her hair is blonde. She has an hourglass body shape, and her body measurements are 32-24-33 inches. Natalia Poklonskaya became a meme overnight when a clip of her at a press conference went viral. In the middle of the Russian occupation of Crimea in March 2014, Natalia Poklonskaya was appointed prosecutor of the Autonomous Republic of Crimea. A clip of the press conference made her an internet sensation. Read also UNIBEN: Mother of best graduating student wears Chosen apron to meet VC during convocation The video was initially uploaded to a Japanese YouTube channel and became a sensation, especially among Chinese and Japanese internet users and streamers . Interest grew and spread to platforms like 4chan, Reddit, and VKontakte. Eventually, the story was picked up by international media outlets, including the BBC . She became a viral trend, with her press conference gaining over 1.7 million views within a month. Natalia Poklonskaya's memes and cute photos circulated on the internet as people admired her looks. A Russian journalist informed Poklonskaya of her internet fame and asked what she thought of being called the new Russian love symbol. She responded with surprise and said she was not so sure about it. No, I want everyone to consider me as an attorney. And I'll achieve it with my job. Natalia Poklonskaya has said she views her beauty as an asset since it allows people to underestimate her, which is excellent for deceiving enemies. Read also Magi Sadeq's biography: Who is Mohamed Salah's wife? Internet users found Natalia Poklonskaya's looks appealing, especially in contrast to her military uniform. The internet virality led to many memes and anime and manga drawings inspired by her. Fan art was made and uploaded on different platforms. These were shared widely and made news internationally. The famous politician graduated from the Yevpatoria branch of the Kharkiv National University of Internal Affairs in 2002. In 2022, Natalia Poklonskaya completed her master's degree in international relations at the Diplomatic Academy of the Russian Federation. Natalia has served in several roles including lawyer, politician, diplomat and adviser. She is also the author of Crimean Spring: Before And After . After Natalia Poklonskaya graduated, she worked in the Ukrainian Prosecutor's Office. She was employed as an assistant prosecutor to the Acting Prosecutor of the Republic of Crimea. From 2002 to 2010, she was assistant attorney general of the Krasnogvardeisky and Yevpatoria districts of Crimea. From 2010 to 2011, she was deputy chief of a surveillance law enforcement unit of the Prosecutor's Office of Crimea. Read also Who is Fayza Lamari? All there is to know about Kylian Mbappé’s mother Among the first cases she handled during this period in her career include that of the organized racket gang 'Bashmaki.' In 2012, she worked as a state prosecutor at the trial against the ex-deputy of the Crimean Council Ruvim. From December 2012 to March 2014, Natalia Poklonskaya worked as a senior attorney of the 2nd division of the General Directorate of Internal Affairs in Crimea. In February 2014, Russia invaded Ukraine to occupy Crimea and annex it from Ukrainian control. The military occupation started on 20 February, which led to the successful Russian annexation of Crimea. During Russian military occupation in preparation for the annexation, Natalia Poklonskaya was appointed Prosecutor of the Autonomous Republic of Crimea. Four others had rejected the position before Natalia Poklonskaya accepted it. She resigned from the Ukrainian judicial service and joined the occupying Russian forces in Crimea. She has been termed a traitor in Ukraine even to this day. Read also How much is Andile Jali's salary? Top details about the football star Following her appointment, Natalia Poklonskaya was declared a wanted criminal by the Ukrainian judicial authorities due to her alleged involvement in a conspiracy to overthrow the constitutional order. Natalia held a press conference after her appointment, reacting to the situation. Her video went viral, making her an internet sensation. In her speech, she criticized the opposition protests in Ukraine and described the change of government in Kyiv as an "anti-constitutional coup." Following her remarks, the Ukrainian government launched a criminal case against Natalia and stripped her of the civil service rank of "counsellor of justice." In October 2016, Russian President Vladimir Putin terminated Natalia's appointment as the prosecutor of Crimea. The move came a few weeks after she was elected MP of the Russian parliament by the United Russia party on September 18. Natalia started serving as the Deputy of the State Duma of Russia on October 5, 2016. The famous politician also served as the deputy chairman of the State Duma Committee on Foreign Affairs. Read also Top 30 best defensive midfielders in the world as of 2024 ranked While in office, Poklonskaya initiated a ban on the Mejlis of Crimean Tatar people, describing it as an extremist organization. She also gave the course of numerous lawsuits over the Crimean Tatars on charges of extremism and terrorism. Natalia Poklonskaya began her diplomatic career on October 13 2021. She was appointed the Russian Federation's ambassador to the Republic of Cabo Verde but could not take the position. After graduating in February 2022, she received another appointment as the deputy chief of Rossotrudnichestvo, also known as the Federal Agency for the Commonwealth of Independent States Affairs, Compatriots Living Abroad, and International Humanitarian Cooperation. In November 2016, Natalia led a campaign to block the release of Matilda for allegedly insulting believers' feelings, which is a criminal offence in Russia, according to a law passed in 2013. The film tells the story of the romance between prima ballerina Matilda Kshesinskaya and the last Russian tsar, Nicholas II. She filed 43 complaints against the movie despite receiving rejections from the prosecution each time. Read also Meet Marcia Aoki, legendary footballer Pelé’s widow She received support from famous figures, including Chechen President Ramazan Kadyrov and Orthodox Church clerics. Despite her efforts, the film premiered in St Petersburg's Marinski Theatre in October 2017 under tight security. In July 2018, Poklonskaya was the only United Russian MP to vote against a government bill to raise the retirement age. The State Duma voted on the first reading of legislation to pass the bill. After Natalia's rebellion, United Russia leaders discussed her future in the party but did not include her in the newly formed Joint Commission of Ethics and Income Monitoring. Natalia remained the deputy chairperson of the Security and Countering Corruption Commission and an ordinary member of the National Security Budgetary Spending Commission. Poklonskaya also co-authored a book , Crimean Spring: Before and After , with her ex-husband, Ivan Solovyev. Read also Aya Tanjali’s age, birthday, parents, why is she famous? The book launch occurred on March 10, 2019, at Livadia Palace in Crimea. The 15-chapter book highlights her childhood, family, and career. Her book shows the Ukrainian intelligence services and describes the events in which she participated. What is Natalia Poklonskaya's nickname? Natalia is often called 'Nyasha' because of her appearance. The word originates from 'Nyashniy,' which means attractive, cheerful, desirable things or characters in anime. 'Nyasha' is also often used to describe an adorable girl. Who is Natalia Poklonskaya's husband? The Russian diplomat married Ivan Nikolaevich Soloview in 2018. Their wedding took place in Crimea. Ivan is a veteran of law enforcement agencies. After over one year of marriage, the couple divorced in 2019. The politician is currently single and living with her daughter. Natalia Poklonskaya's daughter is called Anastasiya Poklonskaya. Natalia Poklonskaya's net worth The 44-year-old has earned quite a lot as a lawyer and politician. Her estimated net worth is $1 million, per The City Celeb . Read also Who is Thierry Henry’s wife? Get to know Andrea Rajacic Anti-War comments on the Russian invasion of Ukraine In 2022, Natalia Poklonskaya made anti-war sentiments on her Telegram channel. She decried the devastation that the Russian invasion of Ukraine had caused. Following her remarks, she was dismissed as deputy chief of Rossotrudnichestvo. After the dismissal, Natalia Poklonskaya thanked Russian President Vladimir Putin for his support and said she would move to another job. The following day, she was appointed as the adviser to the Prosecutor General of Russia. Since then, she has been largely silent on social media, which has led to speculations of a strict ban on public speaking. Is Natalia Poklonskaya pagan? Natalia Poklonskaya is an orthodox Christian. However, she came under fire in November 2024 when she shared pictures on Telegram wearing face paint and Celtic garb to celebrate the Gaelic festival of Samhain. The head of the Russian Orthodox Church criticized her outfit and called it an attempt to revive paganism. Read also Shawty Bae’s age, height, real name, net worth, boyfriend Where is Natalia Poklonskaya now? Natalia Poklonskaya currently advises the Prosecutor General of Russia. She reposts and reports stories on her Telegram channel but has not been as active on social media. Fast Facts about Natalia Poklonskaya She was born in Ukraine and was a citizen of Ukraine before Russian invasion. She joined the Russian military occupation of Crimea and became of the Autonomous Republic of Crimea. She has one daughter, Anastasiya Poklonskaya. She is a high-ranking official in the Russian government and currently serves as an adviser to the Prosecutor General of Russia. She was accused of treason by the Prosecutor General’s office of Ukraine for assisting Russia in occupying Crimea. To Russians, Natalia Poklonskaya is a prosecutor, diplomat and adviser trusted by Putin and proof of beauty with brains. While to Ukrainians, she is a traitor who betrayed the country and joined the occupying forces. Despite her controversies and decisions, Poklonskaya remains an influential figure in Russia. Read also 15 hottest weather women to ever grace your TV screen Legit.ng recently shared an article on the Top 30 countries with the most beautiful women in 2024. This ranking was sourced from multiple publications to bring you the most beautiful women based on different metrics. Find out which countries are considered to have the most beautiful women and if your country is on the list. The countries featured here are frequently celebrated in global media, beauty pageants, and cultural narratives for the unique attributes of their women. Source: Legit.ng

With three resounding knocks on its doors by Paris Archbishop Laurent Ulrich, wielding a specially designed crosier carved from fire-scorched beams, the monument roared back to life Saturday evening. For the first time since a devastating blaze nearly destroyed it in 2019, the towering Gothic masterpiece reopened for worship, its rebirth marked by song, prayer, and awe beneath its soaring arches. The ceremony, initially planned to begin on the forecourt, was moved entirely inside due to unusually fierce December winds sweeping across the Île de la Cité, flanked by the River Seine. Yet the occasion lost none of its splendor. Inside the luminous nave, choirs sang psalms, and the cathedral’s mighty organ, silent for nearly five years, thundered to life in a triumphant interplay of melodies. The restoration, a spectacular achievement in just five years for a structure that took nearly two centuries to build, is seen as a moment of triumph for French President Emmanuel Macron, who championed the ambitious timeline — and a welcome respite from his domestic political woes. The evening’s celebration, attended by 1,500 dignitaries, including President-elect Donald Trump, US first lady Jill Biden, Britain’s Prince William, and Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy, underscored Notre Dame’s enduring role as both a spiritual and cultural beacon. Observers see the event as Macron's, and his intention to pivot it into a fully fledged diplomatic gathering, while highlighting France’s ability to unite on the global stage despite internal political crises. As the cathedral’s largest bell, the 13-ton Emmanuel — which was not named after the French leader — tolled into the Paris night, signaling the start of the ceremony, the crowd inside Notre Dame fell into an expectant hush. Emmanuel, a legacy of King Louis XIV, had rung through centuries of French history, and its peal now resonated as a call to witness another epochal moment. Outside the cathedral’s monumental doors, Ulrich raised his fire-scarred crosier. “Brothers and sisters, let us enter now into Notre Dame,” he declared. “It is she who accompanies us on our path to peace.” With the congregation of over 2,500 people watching in silence, Ulrich struck the floodlit doors, the base of his crosier reverberating against the wood. Inside, the choir answered with soaring hymns, their voices filling the nave. Illuminations on the cathedral facade heightened the drama. On the final strike, the heavy doors swung open, revealing the glowing interior of restored blond Lutetian limestone. Adding to the ceremony’s visual splendor, Ulrich and the clergy wore vibrant liturgical garments designed by French fashion designer Jean-Charles de Castelbajac. Known for his signature pop-art aesthetic, Castelbajac created 2,000 colorful pieces for 700 celebrants, blending modern elements with medieval touches. Flooded with light and song, the cathedral came alive in a moment of breathtaking spectacle. What had been a silent, soot-blackened ruin five years ago now blazed with renewed vitality, marking the culmination of a nearly $1 billion global effort to resurrect it. Speaking inside the cathedral, Macron expressed “gratitude” Saturday to those who saved, helped, and rebuilt Notre Dame, his voice reverberating through the nave. “I stand before you ... to express the gratitude of the French nation,” he said, before voices flooded the space with song, harmonies not heard in over five years. “Tonight, the bells of Notre Dame are ringing again. And in a moment, the organ will awaken,” sending the “music of hope” cascading through the luminous interior to Parisians, France, and the world beyond, he said. The celebration is expected to give a much-needed boost to the embattled French leader, whose prime minister was ousted this week, plunging the nation’s politics into more turmoil. Macron has called Notre Dame’s reopening “a jolt of hope.” Observers say he hoped the occasion would briefly silence his critics and showcase France’s unity and resilience under his leadership — a rare moment of grace in a presidency now facing a grave crisis. Inside Notre Dame, 42,000 square meters of stonework—equivalent to six soccer pitches—gleamed anew, revealing intricate carvings and luminous limestone. Above, 2,000 oak beams, nicknamed “the forest,” restored the cathedral’s iconic spire and roof. The great organ, dormant for over five years, roared back to life like a slumbering giant. With its 7,952 pipes—ranging from pen-sized to torso-wide—and a renovated console featuring five keyboards, 115 stops, and 30 foot pedals, it responded to Archbishop Laurent Ulrich’s command: “Wake up, organ, sacred instrument.” The first low rumble grew into a triumphant symphony as four organists pulled out the stops, weaving improvised responses to the archbishop’s invocations. Eight times, Ulrich addressed the organ; eight times, its voice filled the nave with breathtaking sound. Guests marveled at the spectacle, many capturing the moment on their phones. “It’s a sense of perfection,” said François Le Page of the Notre Dame Foundation, who last saw the cathedral cloaked in scaffolding in 2021. “It was somber then. Now, it’s night and day.” The Rev. Andriy Morkvas, a Ukrainian priest who leads the Volodymyr Le Grand church in Paris, reflected on his first visit to Notre Dame in over a decade. “I didn’t recognize it,” he said. “God is very powerful; He can change things.” He expressed hope that the cathedral’s revival could inspire peace in his homeland, drawing strength from the presence of Ukraine’s president. “I think that will have a big impact,” he said. “I hope Notre Dame and Mary will help us resolve this conflict.” The reopening of Notre Dame comes at a time of profound global unrest, with wars raging in Ukraine and the Middle East. For Catholics, Notre Dame’s rector said the cathedral “carries the enveloping presence of the Virgin Mary, a maternal and embracing presence.′′ “It is a magnificent symbol of unity,” Olivier Ribadeau Dumas said. “Notre Dame is not just a French monument — it is a magnificent sign of hope.” The international range of dignitaries coming to Paris underline the cathedral’s significance as a symbol of shared heritage and peace. Canadian visitor Noelle Alexandria, who had traveled to Paris for the reopening, was struck by the cathedral’s ability to inspire. “She’s been nearly ruined before, but she always comes back,” Alexandria said. “Not many of us could say the same after such tragedy, but Notre Dame can.” Guests entered through Notre Dame’s iconic western façade, whose arched portals adorned with biblical carvings were once a visual guide for medieval believers. Above the central Portal of the Last Judgment, the Archangel Michael is depicted weighing souls, as demons attempt to tip the scales. These stone figures, designed to inspire both awe and fear, set the stage for a ceremony steeped in history. Inside, the hum of hundreds of guests awaiting the service filled the cathedral with human sounds once more — a stark contrast to the construction din that echoed there for years. Tuners restoring the great organ often worked through the night to find the silence needed to perfect its 7,952 pipes, ranging from pen-sized to torso-wide. Notre Dame echoed to the sound of a sustained standing ovation after the showing of a short movie that documented the gargantuan rebuilding effort. Outside, the word “MERCI” — thank you — was projected against the cathedral’s iconic western facade. The movie showed the terrible wounds left by the inferno — the gaping holes torn into its vaulted ceilings and the burned roof. But that was followed by images of all types of artisans, many using traditional handicraft techniques, who collectively restored Notre Dame to look better now than ever. "We went from night to light," said one of the workers in the movie. Security will be high through the weekend, echoing measures taken during the Paris Olympics earlier this year. The Île de la Cité — the small island in the River Seine that is home to Notre Dame and the historic heart of Paris— is closed to tourists and non-residents. Police vans and barriers blocked cobblestoned streets in a large perimeter around the island, while soldiers in thick body armor and sniffer dogs patrolled embankments. A special security detail followed Trump. For many, Notre Dame’s rebirth is not just a French achievement but a global one — after the reopening, the cathedral is set to welcome 15 million visitors annually, up from 12 million before the fire.

DUBAI, United Arab Emirates (AP) — An Israeli-Moldovan rabbi living in the United Arab Emirates has gone missing, with Israeli authorities raising the suspicion Saturday he may have been kidnapped as tensions remain high with Iran . Israeli media citing unnamed security sources reported that Zvi Kogan, who has been missing since noon Thursday, may have been kidnapped. The Israeli prime minister’s office on Saturday night acknowledged Kogan’s disappearance, without elaborating. His disappearance comes as Iran has been threatening to retaliate against Israel after it launched a strike in October hitting sensitive military bases in the country . Tehran twice has launched missile attacks on Israel amid the Israel-Hamas war in the Gaza Strip and the Israeli ground offensive in Lebanon. “Since (Kogan’s) disappearance, and against the backdrop of information that this was a terrorist incident, an extensive investigation has been opened in the country,” the prime minister’s office said. “Israeli intelligence and security agencies are working continuously out of concern for the well-being and safety of Zvi Kogan.” Israeli media described the rabbi as a veteran of the Israeli military’s 84th Givati Brigade. RELATED COVERAGE As airlines avoid Israel, UAE’s FlyDubai and Etihad keep up flights for both diplomacy and dollars French weapons system found in Sudan is likely violation of U.N. arms embargo, says Amnesty The UAE opens its annual oil-and-gas summit as industry weathers Mideast wars and awaits US election The Chabad Lubavitch movement, a prominent and highly observant branch of Orthodox Judaism, said Kogan was last seen in Dubai. A video circulating on social media showed him earlier in the week at a Kosher grocery store in the city-state. The Chabad Lubavitch movement also described Kogan as being an emissary of the branch, which is based in Brooklyn’s Crown Heights neighborhood in New York. “Our emissaries are working closely with authorities as they investigate his disappearance,” the movement’s chairman, Rabbi Yehuda Krinsky, said in a statement. Early Sunday, the UAE’s state-run WAM news agency acknowledged Kogan’s disappearance but pointedly did not acknowledge he held Israeli citizenship, referring to him only as being Moldovan. The Emirati Interior Ministry described Kogan as being “missing and out of contact.” “Specialized authorities immediately began search and investigation operations upon receiving the report,” the Interior Ministry said. The Emirati Foreign Ministry separately described the Interior Ministry search as involving “extensive measures.” The Foreign Ministry “is in close contact with his family to provide them with all means of necessary support,” it added. The UAE is an autocratic federation of seven sheikhdoms on the Arabian Peninsula and is also home to Abu Dhabi. Local Jewish officials in the UAE declined to comment. While the Israeli statement did not mention Iran, Iranian intelligence services have carried out past kidnappings in the UAE. Western officials believe Iran runs intelligence operations in the UAE and keeps tabs on the hundreds of thousands of Iranians living across the country. Iran is suspected of kidnapping and later killing British Iranian national Abbas Yazdi in Dubai in 2013, though Tehran has denied involvement. Iran also kidnapped Iranian German national Jamshid Sharmahd in 2020 from Dubai, taking him back to Tehran, where he was executed in October . Iranian state media later acknowledged Kogan’s disappearance, without elaborating. The UAE diplomatically recognized Israel in 2020 . Since then, Israelis have come to the UAE to set up businesses and vacation. Emirati airlines have been a key link for Israel to the rest of the world as other carriers have stopped flying to Ben Gurion International Airport in Tel Aviv amid the wars. The UAE also has a burgeoning Jewish community, with synagogues and businesses catering to kosher diners. However, the Mideast wars have sparked deep anger among Emiratis, Arab nationals from other states and others living in the UAE. ___ Reich reported from New York.If you visit Barcelona right now, as the high season has firmly come to an end, it’s likely that you’ll have nothing but lovely interactions with the locals. This couldn’t be said for the city’s earlier visitors this summer, who had to endure being sprayed by water pistols and were driven out of the city centre by anti-tourism protests. But there are still remnants of a particularly tense summer in Barca, with “tourists go home” graffiti near the local landmarks serving as a semi-permanent reminder. But don’t let it put you off visiting the city. Barcelona needs tourism, it just doesn’t need centralised throngs of totally un-self aware tourists blocking traffic, holding selfie sticks and making their very lived-in city centre unlivable. So, if you’re considering paying the place a visit soon, make like the locals and explore the El Poblenou neighbourhood instead. This is the place to go if you’re the type of person who likes to visit European cities to get a taste of what it’s actually like to live there. The chic, up-and-coming area is popular among young Barcelonans due to its relative distance from the busy, visitor-heavy citadel and its closeness to some of Barcelona’s best beaches. El Poblenou is just 30 minutes drive from Barcelona-El Prat Airport airport, and prominent hotel chains are starting to base themselves there, including Meliá Barcelona Sky, a 4-star hotel that is housed within an ultra-modern skyscraper designed by legendary French architect Dominique Perrault. If views are your thing, this is the place to be, with Meliá Barcelona Sky currently standing as the fourth tallest building in the city (rooms from £144 a night, melia.com ). While Barcelona Sky is closer to the sea, there’s also a The Hoxton by Ennismore property in the area — offering that classic London hotel charm — and it is situated just 21 minutes walk from the Sagrada Familia (rooms from £153 a night, thehoxton.com ). But don’t feel like you need to walk everywhere: Poblenou is a station on one of the city’s most useful Metro lines, L4, making it easy to get to and from. For this reason, if you’d rather stay central and venture out to El Poblenou, we recommend ME Barcelona, Meliá Barcelona Sky’s luxurious, avant-garde sister hotel nearer the centre of the city, which has a rooftop pool so stunning it practically demands to be photographed (rooms from £273 a night, melia.com ). As for what do in Poblenou? Drink, firstly. This isn’t a party area, but it is a social one — like a Spanish Hackney, if Hackney wasn’t so extortionately expensive now, or so full of Australians. So, enjoy the slow paced Mediterranean drinking culture. Recently opened Masa Vins ( instagram.com/masa.vins ) is an uber-trendy wine bar with mirrored interiors and despicably good looking, well-dressed customers. Oh, and the wine’s good too. Then there’s Henry’s Bar, located a seven minute walk away, via Carrer de Pere IV. Henry’s feels like a Spanish version of Ridley Road Disco — the type of place you should end a lively night in Poblenou with some dancing and drunk inhaling of chicken wings. “Chicken wings?!” you scoff. Line your stomach before then, with something more authentically Spanish, like tapas at El 58 ( instagram.com/restauranteel58 ) or Galician razor clams and locally caught lobster at Racó de la Vila ( racodelavilla.com ). But the best food will be found on the other side of Poblenou, nearer the station, at Bar Andalucía (Carrer d'Espronceda, 51, Sant Martí, 08005), with its hand-written menus and exceptional home cooking. A former worker’s bar from back when Poblenou was an entirely industrial area. The menu changes ever slightly day by day according to which ingredients are fresh and in season. Shrimps, sardines, pork knuckle, tripe, steak of beef, paella, home-baked tarts, you name it, Bar Andalucia has it. In the daytime, pass your time picking up sourdough buns and challah at Barbara Bakery, or visiting the ultra-stylish, appointment-only Vasto Gallery (Carrer de Llull, 109, 08005), which is part architecture project, part art space ( vasto.es ). But be sure to spend most of your time on the pristine nearby beaches, with Barcelona situated on the northeast coast of the Iberian Peninsula, like Playa de Bogatell and Nova Icaria, or brave the local nudist beach Mar Bella. If there’s one way to ensure an anti-tourism free holiday, it’s blending in with the locals like this — it might just cost you your clothes.