TEHRAN – The United Nations has underscored the stark reality for children facing the U.S.-backed Israeli genocidal war in the blockaded Gaza Strip. Philippe Lazzarini, the Commissioner-General of the United Nations Relief and Works Agency for Palestine Refugees (UNRWA), took to social media to share a harrowing message about the ongoing tragedy in Gaza. In his post, Lazzarini described the devastating toll the genocidal war is taking, calling Gaza “no place for children.” Citing UNICEF figures, Lazzarini revealed that 14,500 Palestinian children have been killed since the start of the war, amounting to an unimaginable rate of “one child killed every hour”. “These are not numbers. These are lives cut short,” he wrote, stressing the unimaginable loss of young lives. Lazzarini’s post highlighted not only the fatalities but also the lasting scars on those who survive. “Those who survive are scarred physically and emotionally. Deprived of learning, boys and girls in Gaza sift through the rubble,” he said. His words carried a stark warning about the long-term consequences for Gaza’s youth. “The clock is ticking for these children. They are losing their lives, their futures, and mostly their hope,” the Commissioner-General stated. The post has resonated widely on social media, prompting calls for immediate action to protect Gaza’s children and provide humanitarian assistance. Lazzarini ended with a powerful reminder that “Killing children cannot be justified.” Childhood innocence has been overshadowed by devastation, trauma, and deprivation in one of the most heart-wrenching places on earth, UNICEF’s Communication Specialist Rosalia Bollen said. In an emotional statement, Bollen painted a harrowing picture of the daily reality for over a million children trapped in Gaza, urging the global community to take immediate action to save lives and ease suffering. “Children in Gaza are cold, sick, and traumatized,” said Bollen. “Hunger and malnutrition, coupled with dire living conditions, are putting their lives at risk. Over 96% of women and children cannot meet their basic nutritional needs. Most are surviving on rationed flour, lentils, pasta, and canned food, a diet that slowly compromises their health.” The scale of the humanitarian crisis has deepened dramatically, with aid entering Gaza at a trickle. Bollen revealed that in November, an average of only 65 truckloads of assistance entered Gaza per day, compared to 500 daily before the war. The northern part of Gaza, under siege for more than 75 days, has been particularly affected, with children in urgent need unable to access essential aid for over 10 weeks. “Gaza must be one of the most heartbreaking places on earth for humanitarians. Every small effort to save a child’s life is undone by fierce devastation,” she said. According to Bollen, over 14,500 children have been reportedly killed in the past 14 months, with thousands more injured. In a chilling briefing, Bollen shared the story of five-year-old Saad, a boy who lost his eyesight in a bombing and sustained severe injuries. “When I met him, he told me: ‘My eyes went to heaven before I did.’ Hearing those words and seeing his distress was unbearable,” Bollen recounted. As Gaza enters the cold winter months, the situation for children has worsened. Many lack adequate clothing and are forced to search the rubble for scraps of plastic to burn for warmth. Hospitals are overwhelmed, running on limited fuel and lacking basic supplies and medicines. Diseases are spreading, further endangering vulnerable children. “The suffering is not merely physical; it is also psychological,” said Bollen, sharing the heart-wrenching story of a seven-month-old baby boy, also named Saad, who died of malnutrition after months of struggling to survive. “He was born in war and left this world without being given a chance to live in peace. I cannot even start to imagine the depth of suffering of his parents.” As the world prepares for festive celebrations, Bollen called on people to reflect on the plight of Gaza’s children and use their voices, political capital, and diplomatic leverage to push for urgent action. “We must push for the evacuation of grievously injured children to seek life-saving care elsewhere and demand a ceasefire to allow aid to enter at scale,” she said. Bollen’s plea concluded with a stark warning: “Every day without action steals another day from Gaza’s children. Every delay costs more lives. This war should haunt every one of us. Gaza’s children cannot wait.” As winter tightens its grip on Gaza, the world must decide: will it stand by or stand up for the most vulnerable in society?
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Tweet Facebook Mail As festive season gets underway, new research shows Australians continue to pivot to low- or zero- alcohol drinks, as the national consumption shifts. DrinkWise said 62 per cent of Australians aged 25 and over felt more empowered to choose to not drink alcohol compared to 10 years ago. And they said 51 per cent of consumers drank - at least sometimes - zero-alcohol products, compared to 35 per cent in 2021. READ MORE: Home buyer battles neighbours swimming in her $1.29m backyard People are more likely to drink low- and zero-alcohol drinks this holiday season. (Nine) However - and relevant to the season - office parties tend to be the scene of heavier drinking. DrinkWise said 35 per cent of people who drank at parties where employers were footing the bill tended to drink more than four standard drinks, compared to 23 per cent who exceeded that limit when paying for their own alcohol. Nonetheless, 73 per cent of respondents said it was important for people to have access to zero- and low-alcoholic drinks, and 53 per cent said they wanted to cut back. READ MORE: Bank withdrawal fees, cashless trend slammed as 'kick in the gut' Australia's most trusted and distrusted brands View Gallery "We continue to see positive shifts in attitudes and behaviours towards alcohol, with parties and celebrations the main occasion where people alternate between full and lower or zero strength alcohol (71 per cent)," DrinkWise CEO Simon Strahan said. "This demonstrates a growing awareness of the benefits of more responsible drinking habits." DOWNLOAD THE 9NEWS APP : Stay across all the latest in breaking news, sport, politics and the weather via our news app and get notifications sent straight to your smartphone. Available on the Apple App Store and Google Play .By BRUCE SHIPKOWSKI, Associated Press The large mysterious drones reported flying over parts of New Jersey in recent weeks appear to avoid detection by traditional methods, like helicopters and radio, according to a state lawmaker briefed Wednesday by the Department of Homeland Security. In a post on the social media platform X, Assemblywoman Dawn Fantasia described the drones as up to 6 feet in diameter and sometimes traveling with their lights switched off. The Morris County Republican was among several state and local lawmakers who met with state police and Homeland Security officials to discuss the spate of sightings that range from the New York City area through New Jersey, westward into parts of Pennsylvania, including over Philadelphia. The devices do not appear to be being flown by hobbyists, Fantasia wrote. Dozens of mysterious nighttime flights started last month and have raised growing concern among residents and officials. Part of the worry stems from the flying objects initially being spotted near the Picatinny Arsenal, a U.S. military research and manufacturing facility; and over President-elect Donald Trump’s golf course in Bedminster. Drones are legal in New Jersey for recreational and commercial use, but they are subject to local and Federal Aviation Administration regulations and flight restrictions. Operators must be FAA certified. Most, but not all, of the drones spotted in New Jersey were larger than those typically used by hobbyists. The number of sightings has increased in recent days, though officials say many of the objects seen may have been planes rather than drones. It’s also possible that a single drone has been reported more than once. Gov. Phil Murphy and law enforcement officials have stressed that the drones don’t appear to threaten public safety. The FBI has been investigating and has asked residents to share any videos, photos or other information they may have. Two Republican Jersey Shore-area congressmen, U.S. Reps. Chris Smith and Jeff Van Drew, have called on the military to shoot down the drones. However, Pentagon spokeswoman Sabrina Singh told reporters Wednesday that “our initial assessment here is that these are not drones or activities coming from a foreign entity or adversary.” Many municipal lawmakers have called for more restrictions on who is entitled to fly the unmanned devices. At least one state lawmaker proposed a temporary ban on drone flights in the state. “This is something we’re taking deadly seriously. I don’t blame people for being frustrated,” Murphy said earlier this week. A spokesman for the Democratic governor said he did not attend Wednesday’s meeting. Republican Assemblyman Erik Peterson, whose district includes parts of the state where the drones have been reported, said he also attended Wednesday’s meeting at a state police facility in West Trenton. The session lasted for about 90 minutes. Peterson said DHS officials were generous with their time, but appeared dismissive of some concerns, saying not all the sightings reported have been confirmed to involve drones. So who or what is behind the flying objects? Where are they coming from? What are they doing? “My understanding is they have no clue,” Peterson said. A message seeking comment was left with the Department of Homeland Security. Most of the drones have been spotted along coastal areas and some were recently reported flying over a large reservoir in Clinton. Sightings also have been reported in neighboring states. James Edwards, of Succasunna, New Jersey, said he has seen a few drones flying over his neighborhood since last month. “It raises concern mainly because there’s so much that’s unknown,” Edwards said Wednesday. “There are lots of people spouting off about various conspiracies that they believe are in play here, but that only adds fuel to the fire unnecessarily. We need to wait and see what is really happening here, not let fear of the unknown overtake us.” AP reporters Mike Catalini in Morrisville, Pennsylvania; and Wayne Parry in Point Pleasant, New Jersey, contributed to this report. Boston.com Today Sign up to receive the latest headlines in your inbox each morning. Be civil. Be kind.
The champions crashed to a fifth straight defeat in all competitions – something not experienced by the club in more than 18 years – as they were thrashed 4-0 by Tottenham at the Etihad Stadium on Saturday. The loss, which was also a third in succession in the Premier League and shattered a 52-game unbeaten home run, damaged the club’s hopes of winning an unprecedented fifth title in a row. It is the worst run of Guardiola’s glittering managerial career and the City boss, who extended his contract until 2027 last week, is determined to turn the situation around. The Catalan said: “When we start to lose I say to the people I have to find a way, I have to. It’s my duty, my responsibility, to find a way to be more consistent, that our game will be better and win games. “This is what we have to do.” City have been hampered by injuries to key players in recent weeks, particularly by the absence of Ballon d’Or-winning midfielder Rodri, who has been sidelined for the remainder of the season. Problems have emerged at both ends of the field with a lack of clean sheets – just five in 19 outings this term – and a shortage of goals being scored on occasions, like Saturday, when the prolific Erling Haaland has an off-day. Guardiola said: “We don’t expect to lose important players but it’s happened and you have to find a way. We have to find other abilities. “I don’t think we didn’t create enough chances. We created a lot of chances, clear ones at 0-0, 0-1, 0-2. “Of course we want a lot of players to score but it’s happened now. “I know at the Etihad when we are there and we score goals our momentum is there, but now we are not solid enough. That is the truth. “In both sides normally we are solid but we concede the goals. Now in both sides we are not good enough. “In these situations, what do you have do to? Keep going my friends, keep going. “We have done it in the past – not in terms of results being as bad as now – but we have done it and we face the situation and move forward.”
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India's 26 major listed real estate firms have sold properties worth nearly Rs 35,000 crore during the September quarter with Godrej Properties reporting highest sales bookings. Lodha Group, Godrej Top The Charts According to the data compiled from regulatory filings, the 26 major listed realty firms have reported a combined sales bookings of Rs 34,985 crore in the second quarter of the current fiscal year. Bulk of pre-sales (sales bookings) came from the residential segment. In terms of sales bookings, Godrej Properties emerged as the largest listed player during July-September quarter with pre-sales of Rs 5,198 crore. Mumbai-based Macrotech Developers Ltd, which sells properties under the Lodha brand, reported sales bookings of Rs 4,290 crore during the quarter under review. Macrotech Developers Ltd, which sells properties under the Lodha brand, reported sales bookings of Rs 4,290 crore. | Wikipedia Delhi-NCR-based Max Estates sold properties worth Rs 4,100 crore, while Bengaluru-based Prestige Estates Projects Ltd clocked sales bookings of Rs 4,022.6 crore during the quarter. Delhi-NCR based Signature Global achieved sales bookings of Rs 2,780 crore in the September quarter, driven by strong demand for its housing projects at Gurugram. DLF Ltd, the country's largest realty firm in terms of market capitalisation, sales bookings declined sharply during the July-September period to Rs 692 crore as it did not launch any new housing project. Among other major listed players, Bengaluru-based Brigade Enterprises Ltd reported a sales bookings of Rs 1,821 crore during July-September period of this fiscal year, while Mumbai-based Oberoi Realty did pre-sales of Rs 1,442.46 crore. Major Companies Report Sales Of Rs 500-1000 Crore Mumbai-based Aditya Birla Real Estate sold properties worth Rs 1,412 crore. Bengaluru-based Puravankara Ltd and Sobha Ltd clocked sales bookings of Rs 1,331 crore and Rs 1,178.5 crore, respectively. Delhi-based TARC Ltd also performed well and achieved pre-sales of Rs 1,012 crore during the September quarter. There were many players that reported sales between Rs 500 crore and Rs 1,000 crore during the second quarter of this fiscal year. Pune-based Kolte-Patil Developers Ltd sold properties worth Rs 770 crore, while Mumbai-based Keystone Realtors (Rustomjee brand) achieved pre-sales of Rs 700 crore. Delhi-based Ashiana Housing Ltd reported sales bookings of Rs 673 crore during the September quarter while Bengaluru-based Shriram Properties clocked pre-sales of Rs 568 crore. Mumbai-based firms Raymond Ltd and Sunteck Realty Ltd sold properties worth Rs 562 crore and Rs 524 crore, respectively. Mumbai-based Mahindra Lifespace Developers Ltd achieved a sales bookings of Rs 397 crore. | Among listed firms that booked less than Rs 500 crore, Ahmedabad-based Arvind Smartspaces sold properties worth Rs 464 crore during the July-September period. Mumbai-based Mahindra Lifespace Developers Ltd achieved a sales bookings of Rs 397 crore. Mumbai-based realtors Arihant SuperstructuresLtd, Ajmera Realty & Infrastructure Ltd and Arkade Developers Ltd reported sales bookings of Rs 270.8 crore, Rs 254 crore and Rs 215 crore, respectively. Suraj Estate Developers sold properties worth Rs 107 crore, while Lucknow-based Eldeco Housing & Industries Ltd clocked pre-sales of Rs 102.9 crore. Mumbai-based Equinox India Developments Ltd (earlier Indiabulls Real Estate Ltd) achieved pre-sales of mere Rs 98 crore during the second quarter of this fiscal year. Sales bookings of many listed entities have declined in the second quarter of 2024-25 because of inauspicious Shraadh period, monsoon rain and also lack of regulatory approvals to launch their projects. For example, DLF Ltd's pre-sales plunged to Rs 692 crore in the September quarter from Rs 6,404 crore in the first quarter of this fiscal. Sales bookings data of many listed players was not available on the stock exchanges. Post-Covid pandemic, the residential real estate segment has revived strongly because of pent-up demand growing desire to have homeownership. Aditya Birla Real Estate sold properties worth Rs 1,412 crore. | Focus Of Companies That Deliver Housing prices too have appreciated significantly. Housing market is witnessing a shift in consumer demand towards those realty companies and brands which have better track record of executing real estate projects. Real estate developers, who are not listed on stock exchanges, generally do not report their quarterly and annual sales bookings. Branded and reputed players, including both listed and unlisted ones, have benefited most in this revival cycle as homebuyers do not want to take risk of getting stuck in real estate projects after making payments. Thousands of buyers of many NCR-based builders, like Unitech and Jaypee Infratech, are stuck and fighting legal cases in real estate regulatory authorities at the state-level, tribunals, and courts.HomeStreet Stock Rises On Agreement To Sell $990M Multifamily Loans To Bank Of AmericaSANTA CLARA — No Brock Purdy. No Nick Bosa. No chance for the 49ers on Sunday in Green Bay? “We’re missing two good players definitely but we’ll have a lot of good players out there,” 49ers coach Kyle Shanahan countered. “By no means do we not have a chance to win. We’ll fight our tails off. We’ll expect a real good game.” will force him to miss his first game due to injury since becoming the 49ers’ starting quarterback nearly two years ago, and that thrusts ninth-year journeyman Brandon Allen into his 10th career start and first since 2021 with Cincinnati. Bosa’s oblique and hip injuries will sideline him for his first game of this wobbly season. Also ruled out were cornerback Charvarius Ward (personal), return specialist Jacob Cowing (concussion), defensive tackle Kevin Givens (groin) and linebacker Tatum Bethune (knee), while left tackle Trent Williams (ankle) is questionable as a game-time decision for a second straight game. Tight end George Kittle (hamstring) and running back Christian McCaffrey (Achilles) are good to go for an offense that must make do without Purdy at the NFL’s most historic venue. Allen, who last threw a regular-season pass in 2022 as Joe Burrow’s backup in Cincinnati, will guide the 49ers’ offense in a key game as San Francisco aims to make a playoff push. “It’s an opportunity,” Allen said. “The circumstances are what they are. Our team all year long, we’ve been dealing with injuries here or there. It’s been a big next-man-up mentality. It’s definitely an opportunity for me to go out, play well, put our guys in a good position to win the game. “Obviously we want Brock back and healthy and all that,” Allen added. “For the time being, it is an opportunity for me.” Josh Dobbs, who lost out to Allen in training camp and the preseason for the QB2 role, will serve in that capacity Sunday at Lambeau Field, where neither quarterback has played a regular-season game. Rookie Tanner Mordecai likely will be elevated from the practice squad Saturday to serve as the emergency No. 3 quarterback. Purdy wore a resigned, dour expression but offered upbeat words as he walked through the locker room, saying: “We’re all good.” This is not how Shanahan scripted it earlier in the week. “(Purdy) got the MRI on Monday, we thought he just needed some rest and really weren’t concerned about not being there this week,” Shanahan said Friday. “I don’t want to say there’s long-term concern,” Shanahan said Friday. “We got the MRI on Monday. We thought he just needed some rest and really weren’t concerned about him not being good this week.” Purdy rested his arm Wednesday, then left the practice field Thursday after a few light throws. “It surprised him, surprised us how it felt, so we had to shut him down,” Shanahan said. “The MRI doesn’t look like (it’s serious) so it should be alright. But the way it responded this week, it’s really up in the air for next week. We’ll have to see on Monday.” The 49ers follow this week’s trip at Green Bay with a prime-time appearance next Sunday, Dec. 1 in Buffalo. “I know this is like the first time Brock’s missed a game probably in his life,” Allen said. “He’s a tough guy and I’m not too worried about it. I don’t think any of our guys are. He’ll rehab and get back as fast as he can.” No one is saying when Purdy got hurt in Sunday’s 20-17 loss to Seattle, whether it was from diving for the goal line on his first-quarter touchdown scramble or later in the game. Shanahan did note that Purdy struggled to keep his shoulder loose and threw on the sideline, then the pain intensified after the game and into Monday. “It was somewhere during that Seattle game and I’m not sure Brock knows,” general manager John Lynch said on KNBR. “He fought through it through the course of the game. I did see him during the course of the game, anytime there was a pause, he kept throwing. At that point, you’re feeling something but he was so focused on trying to win.” Shanahan lauded Allen as a “really good thrower” who “runs our offense well” and that “guys believe in him.” The feeling is mutual on Allen’s side, as he explained what it was like as Purdy’s stand-in on the starting unit in practice this week: “It’s been a blessing to have them in the huddle with me and the leadership that’s in the huddle, so I can just come in and fill the spot for Brock for now, just try to make some plays and get the ball in their hands.” Added Shanahan: “It’s not a big game-plan adjustment. This is something we didn’t think would happen early in the week. We were fully preparing for Brock to go.” The Packers prepared that way, too. Allen is no total stranger, however. Packers coach Matt LaFleur told reporters Friday in Green Bay, prior to Purdy’s no-show practice: “I know Brandon. I was with him in L.A. (in 2017). He’s been in the league a long time. But I wouldn’t expect their offense to change a whole bunch.” While Purdy traveled with the 49ers to Green Bay, Bosa was staying behind to rehabilitate the upper-body injuries that forced him to miss Sunday’s fourth-quarter collapse against Seattle. It will be the first game Bosa has missed since Oct. 16, 2022 with a groin injury. The 49ers lost a road game that day to Atlanta 28-14 during a season in which Bosa was the NFL’s Defensive Player of the Year. Sam Okuayinonu figures to make his first career start in place of Bosa while Leonard Floyd makes his 11th start at the other defensive end slot. Williams, with the help of a pain-killing injection, made it through the Seattle loss at what he said afterwards was 65 percent. Although listed as questionable, Shanahan reiterated Williams’ status could go right up to kickoff. Jaylon Moore likely would start in place of Williams, if needed. Ward, mourning the death of his 23-month-old daughter, was declared out but Shanahan hoped to have the All-Pro cornerback next week when the 49ers visit Buffalo. “He’s taken three full weeks off,” Shanahan said. “It’s not like dealing with all that stuff he’s getting workouts in and all that. We’re just happy to get him back in the building this week. We don’t want to put any pressure on him, hopefully he’ll be good to go next week.” Among those listed as questionable is guard/center Jon Feliciano, whose 21-day window of practicing while on injured reserve is about to expire. If the 49ers don’t put Feliciano on the 53-man roster by Monday, he’ll spend the rest of the season on injured reserve. Cornerback Jaire Alexander (knee) was ruled out after being unable to practice all week, and linebacker Edgerrin Cooper (hamstring) also will not suit up for Green Bay’s defense. Defensive tackle Colby Wooden is questionable as the only other Packers player on their injury report.
Robert Anderson chosen for Virginia High School Hall of FameISLAMABAD, (UrduPoint / Pakistan Point News - 24th Nov, 2024) Chief Executive Officer (CEO) of COMEX, Amar A. Babood during his recent to , underscored the importance of strengthening the economic and cultural ties between and . In an interview with APP, Babood emphasized the shared history, culture, and potential that bind the two nations and also focussed on expanding trade, interactions, and collaborative initiatives, "This is my first to , and I’ve had the opportunity to both and ," said Babood. "We are close neighbors, with just an hour's distance , and we a deep connection in history, society, and culture. We have been following ’s developments closely, and now, we are looking to deepen our and diplomatic relations." COMEX, one of ’s leading organizations in the ICT sector, has long been eyeing for its untapped potential. The two countries, despite having a robust cultural connection, have seen relatively low trade volumes, which Babood believes is an area ripe for growth. " and have a lot to offer each other," he added. "There is great potential, particularly in sectors like ICT, where has impressive expertise. ’s Vision 2040 underscores the importance of working closely with global partners to unlock these opportunities, and we are eager to explore ways we can collaborate with ." Oman is already working closely with the Embassy in to facilitate business-to-business interactions, with a focus on expanding trade in key areas such as ICT, , and tourism. Babood also highlighted the ongoing GCC-Pakistan Free Trade negotiations, which are expected to create new avenues for bilateral trade and investment. " is committed to fostering an environment of open trade and . With the introduction of policies like 100% foreign ownership in certain sectors, we are positioning ourselves as an attractive destination for global investors," Babood said. "In , we see a unique opportunity to tap into a vast and growing , especially with its strong agricultural and tourism sectors. We are also exploring joint ventures that will benefit both countries." During his trip, Babood attended the IDEAS Expo 2024, where he interacted with ministers for Energy, Science and , as well as various entrepreneurs. The provided valuable insights into new trends, especially in sectors like AgriTech, which Babood sees as a key area for future cooperation. " is making significant strides in AgriTech, and can learn a great deal these innovations," he remarked. "Likewise, ’s tourism sector is evolving rapidly, with a growing emphasis on sustainable tourism and the protection of indigenous culture. There’s potential for collaboration in cultural tourism, which will benefit both our nations." Oman is also increasingly focused on green energy, particularly solar power and green hydrogen, as part of its commitment to renewable energy. Babood mentioned that while is a late developer in the renewable energy sector, it has made substantial in solar energy and is now prioritizing green hydrogen as a critical area of focus. "We believe that green hydrogen will play a major role in the future of energy, and is keen to explore this sector further," he explained. "Our investment tools are designed to make it easier for businesses to enter these emerging sectors, which will contribute to both national and regional sustainability goals." Looking ahead, Babood reaffirmed ’s strategic role in fostering cooperation across the Gulf Cooperation Council (GCC) and beyond. He pointed out that ’s diplomatic ties with various nations, including and , allow it to play a vital role in resolving regional conflicts and fostering peace. "As a nation, values its neutrality and diplomatic relations. We are proud to be a bridge between nations, fostering peace, stability, and prosperity in the region," Babood concluded. "We look forward to continued cooperation with , as we work together to realize the untapped potential in trade, , and culture." COMEX is a leading Omani specializing in information and communication (ICT). With a focus on fostering innovation and digital transformation, COMEX is committed to building bridges between businesses and governments to drive economic growth and technological advancement in and beyond.
NEW YORK, Dec. 24, 2024 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) -- Color Star Technology Co., Ltd. (Nasdaq: ADD) ("Color Star" or the "Company"), an entertainment technology company with a global network that focuses on the application of technology and artificial intelligence in the entertainment industry, announces today that His Highness Shaikh Humaid Abdulla Rashed Ahmed Almualla, a prominent member of the United Arab Emirates royal family, has officially joined the company as an independent director of the Company's board of directors. This appointment not only introduces strong leadership to Color Star but also strengthens the company's ties with the Middle East, particularly the UAE. His Highness Shaikh Humaid Abdulla Rashed Ahmed Almualla is a distinguished figure in UAE politics, wielding considerable influence in the Al Mualla region. As a core member of the ruling family of the Umm Al-Quwain Emirate, he plays a vital role on the UAE's political stage. Born in Ajman, the nation's capital, His Highness Shaikh Humaid is also the nephew of the current UAE President, a connection that underscores his esteemed reputation both domestically and internationally. The Al Mualla family, one of the oldest royal lineages in the Middle East, has historically governed the Umm Al-Quwain Emirate. In June 2023, His Highness Shaikh Humaid spearheaded the launch of the UAE Royal HH Investment Fund, a venture that garnered enthusiastic support from royal families and government officials in Saudi Arabia, Oman, Kuwait, and Qatar. Beyond his financial achievements, His Highness Shaikh Humaid's appointment as an independent director on Color Star's board of directors brings fresh perspectives and strategic insights to the company. Having a member of the UAE royal family join Color Star is expected to unlock new investment opportunities and project support, accelerating Color Star's continuous planned investment and innovation in AI entertainment and related technologies. Leveraging these resources, Color Star aims to develop cutting-edge technologies and deliver richer, more innovative entertainment experiences to global audiences. His Highness Shaikh Humaid 's extensive network will undoubtedly energize Color Star's globalization strategy, paving the way for even greater success on the international stage. About Color Star Technology Co., Ltd. Color Star Technology Co., Ltd. (Nasdaq: ADD) is an entertainment and education company that provides online entertainment performances and online music education services. Its business operations are conducted through its wholly-owned subsidiaries, Color Metaverse Pte. Ltd. and CACM Group NY, Inc. The Company 's online education is provided through its Color World music and entertainment education platform. More information about the Company can be found at www.colorstarinternational.com and www.colorstar.investorroom.com . Forward-Looking Statement This press release contains forward-looking statements as defined by the Private Securities Litigation Reform Act of 1995. Forward-looking statements include statements concerning plans, objectives, goals, strategies, future events or performance, and underlying assumptions and other statements that are other than statements of historical facts. When the Company uses words such as "may," "will," "intend," "should," "believe," "expect," "anticipate," "project," "estimate" or similar expressions that do not relate solely to historical matters, it is making forward-looking statements. Forward-looking statements are not guarantee of future performance and involve risks and uncertainties that may cause the actual results to differ materially from the Company's expectations discussed in the forward-looking statements. These statements are subject to uncertainties and risks including, but not limited to, the following: the Company's goals and strategies; the Company's future business development, including the development of the metaverse project; product and service demand and acceptance; changes in technology; economic conditions; the growth of the educational and training services market internationally where ADD conducts its business; reputation and brand; the impact of competition and pricing; government regulations; the occurrence of any event, change or other circumstances that could give rise to the terms of the LOI nothereafter being memorialized in a definitive agreement; the outcome of any legal proceedings that have been, or will be, instituted against Color Star or other parties to the LOI following announcement of the LOI and transactions contemplated therein; the ability of Color Star to meet NASDAQ listing standards in connection with the consummation of the transaction contemplated therein; the inability to complete the transactions contemplated by the LOI due to the failure to meet certain closing conditions; risks that the proposed transaction disrupts current plans and operations and the potential difficulties in employee retention as a result of the announcement of the LOI and consummation of the transaction described therein; costs related to the proposed acquisition; changes in applicable laws or regulations; the ability of the combined company to meet its financial and strategic goals, due to, among other things, competition, the ability of the combined company to grow and manage growth profitability, maintain relationships with customers and retain its key employees; the possibility that the combined company may be adversely affected by other economic, business, and/or competitive factors; and other risks and uncertainties described herein, as well as those risks and uncertainties discussed from time to time in other reports and other public filings with the Securities and Exchange Commission by Color Star. For these reasons, among others, investors are cautioned not to place undue reliance upon any forward-looking statements in this press release. Additional factors are discussed in the Company's filings with the U.S. Securities and Exchange Commission, which are available for review at www.sec.gov. The Company undertakes no obligation to publicly revise these forward-looking statements to reflect events or circumstances that arise after the date hereof unless required by applicable laws, regulations or rules. For more information, please contact: Color Star Investor Relations Office Number No. 1003, 9th Floor, 7 World Trade Center, Suite 4621 New York NY 10007 Office: (212) 410-5186 Email ir@colorstarint ernational.comSANTA CRUZ, Calif. (AP) — Persistent high surf and flooding threats along California’s coast had residents on high alert a day after a major storm was blamed for one man’s death and the partial collapse of a pier , which propelled three people into the Pacific Ocean. The National Weather Service on Christmas Eve warned of dangerous, large-breaking waves of up to 35 feet (10.7 meters). Its latest high surf warning will be in effect until 6 p.m. Tuesday. “Large waves can sweep across the beach without warning, pulling people into the sea from rocks, jetties and beaches,” the weather service said in a Christmas Eve bulletin. In Santa Cruz, where a municipal wharf under construction partially collapsed on Monday, most beaches were cordoned off as they were inundated with high surf and debris. Residents received an alert on their phones Tuesday morning notifying them to “avoid all beaches including coastal overlook areas such as rocks, jetties or cliffs.” It warned powerful waves could sweep entire beaches unexpectedly. Local officials said there could be further damage to the wharf, but no more pieces broke off overnight. The wharf collapsed and fell into the ocean midday Monday, taking three people with it. Two people were rescued by lifeguards and a third swam to safety. No one was seriously injured. Santa Cruz Mayor Fred Keeley said in the weeks and months ahead officials will have to assess long-term solutions for protecting the coastal city from the impacts of climate change . “Hallelujah that no one was hurt in this, which could have been orders of magnitude worse in terms of any injuries to human beings and damage to property onshore and offshore,” he said at a media briefing Tuesday. “But I think we have somewhat of a question mark as we move through time,” he added. “And I don't think we're by ourselves. I think this is what coastal communities around the world are probably dealing with.” The structure was in the middle of a $4 million renovation following destructive storms last winter about 70 miles (112 kilometers) south of San Francisco. “It’s a catastrophe for those down at the end of the wharf,” said David Johnston, who was allowed onto the pier on Monday to check on his business, Venture Quest Kayaking. Tony Elliot, the head of the Santa Cruz Parks & Recreation Department, estimated that about 150 feet (45 meters) of the end of the wharf fell into the water. It was immediately evacuated and will remain closed indefinitely. Some of the wharf’s pilings are still in the ocean and remain “serious, serious hazards” to boats, the mayor said. Each piling weighs hundreds of pounds and is being pushed by powerful waves. “You are risking your life, and those of the people that would need to try and save you by getting in or too close to the water,” the National Weather Service’s Bay Area office said on the social platform X. Building inspectors were looking at the rest of the pier’s structural integrity. Some California cities ordered beachfront homes and hotels to evacuate early Monday afternoon as forecasters warned that storm swells would continue to increase throughout the day. In Watsonville along the Monterey Bay, first responders were called to Sunset State Beach, a state park, around 11:30 a.m. Monday for a report of a man trapped under debris. The Santa Cruz County Sheriff’s Office believes a large wave pinned him there. The man was pronounced dead at a hospital. The storm’s high surf also likely pulled another man into the Pacific Ocean around noon Monday at Marina State Beach, nearly 13 miles (21 kilometers) south of Watsonville, authorities said. Strong currents and high waves forced searchers to abandon their efforts roughly two hours later as conditions worsened. The man remained missing Monday evening. In a post on X, the National Weather Service office in Portland, Oregon, said, “It will likely go down as some of the highest surf this winter.” Dazio reported from Los Angeles. Associated Press writer Sophie Austin in Sacramento contributed.
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The “It Ends With Us” drama has deepened. Justin Baldoni’s ex-publicist is suing the actor, his film studio and his crisis PR team over an alleged breach of contract, the New York Times reported Tuesday. Stephanie Jones, notably, runs Jonesworks and represented the “Jane the Virgin” alum, 40, before his and Blake Lively’s alleged feud made headlines. When Baldoni allegedly began to fear in August that “allegations of misogynistic and toxic on-set behavior ... would be harmful to his reputation and career,” his point person, Jones’ employee Jennifer Abel, hired “crisis fixer” Melissa Nathan to help her, according to court docs obtained by Page Six. Jones claims in the lawsuit that Abel and Nathan “coordinated with Baldoni and Wayfarer to implement an aggressive media smear campaign” against Lively. She further alleges in court docs that this was used “as an opportunity to drive a wedge between Jones and Baldoni, and to publicly pin blame for this smear campaign on Jones — when Jones had no knowledge or involvement in it.” Jones, who claimed in court docs that she fired Abel for attempting to steal documents in an attempt to poach clients and start her own business, shared subpoenaed texts from Abel’s company phone in her lawsuit. Abel currently works for Baldoni, whom she continued to rep after opening her firm. In the alleged messages, Abel blasted Baldoni as a “pompous” man who was “not that important” and needed “to be humbled.” “When this movie flops, he’s going to try to blame every person around him for it,” Abel allegedly wrote, adding that she “can’t stand” him. In another text, Abel allegedly criticized “his face,” to which an unidentified person replied, “Blake was probably grossed out too.” Reps for Baldoni, Abel and Nathan have yet to respond to Page Six’s request for comment. However, a source provided documents to Page Six appearing to show that Abel resigned on July 10 via Zoom and left the company on August 23 with an expressed desire to be on amicable terms. The insider alleged that Jones’ subsequent lawsuit is “retaliatory” behavior, claiming, “Justin and Wayfarer chose to leave with Jennifer Abel and were not ‘stolen.’ “Nor were any other clients,” the source continued. “The rest of the clients that came with her were either ones she had represented for years prior to joining Jonesworks, and she received written approval, and one she had personally signed while at Jonesworks who had no relationship with Stephanie Jones.” Meanwhile, a source close to Joneswork claimed to Page Six, “Jen Abel stole a number of clients. Any claim otherwise is preposterous on its face,” referencing Abel working with Baldoni and Wayfarer since her time at Jones’ company. Lively was the first to accuse Baldoni and his team of attempting to “destroy” her reputation in a sexual harassment complaint that went public over the weekend. In addition to allegedly inappropriate behavior on the set of the adaptation of Colleen Hoover’s 2016 book, Lively claimed Baldoni used “a digital army ... to create, seed, and promote content” portraying her in a negative light. The director has denied any wrongdoing, calling her claims “fabricated” and “salacious” via his and Wayfarer Studios’ lawyer, Bryan Freedman. The attorney also defended Baldoni’s PR team’s work in a statement to Page Six, claiming they took part in “standard scenario planning” as opposed to an “insidious PR effort.” Lively and Baldoni’s co-stars have come to the “Gossip Girl” alum’s defense, with Jenny Slate and Brandon Sklenar sharing their support . While Lively’s husband, Ryan Reynolds, has yet to comment on the scandal, he made headlines for a cryptic Instagram Story post on Monday. The “Deadpool” star noted that he suited up as the character for a charity promotion “during a time [when he] really didn’t feel like” it. Reynolds, who has been married to Lively since 2012 , allegedly blocked Baldoni on social media prior to “It Ends With Us” premiering over the summer. In addition, Reynolds was reportedly present at a previous “all hands on deck” meeting held to address Baldoni’s alleged bad behavior, which ranged from allegedly improvising during intimate scenes and discussing his past porn addiction, according to Lively’s lawsuit.Google released a pretty cool feature in its recent December Feature Drop. The update, which helps extend a user’s battery life by limiting charging to only 80 percent, was pushed out as part of the feature drop. However, spotted by Redditor takaxia, the update also allows for the Pixel 8 and Pixel 9 series to run directly on AC power completely bypassing the battery. Pixel phones finally support bypass charging by u/takaxia in GooglePixel Users can do this by heading to Settings > Battery > Charging optimization and enabling the Limit to 80 percent option. Once you charge your handset to 80 percent, it will stop using its battery and directly use the AC to keep it running. This will reduce battery decay over time, extending a user’s battery. Additionally, this can help reduce the heat the Pixel generates. The handset can get pretty hot when gaming, depending on what title you’re playing. When plugged in, the handset won’t produce any heat when playing titles because the device won’t be using its battery and will use the AC adapter instead. The feature works if you’ve downloaded the latest Pixel Drop and are using the Android 15 QPR1 build for the Pixel 8 and Pixel 9. Source: Android PoliceAP Business SummaryBrief at 12:10 p.m. EST
TEHRAN – The United Nations has underscored the stark reality for children facing the U.S.-backed Israeli genocidal war in the blockaded Gaza Strip. Philippe Lazzarini, the Commissioner-General of the United Nations Relief and Works Agency for Palestine Refugees (UNRWA), took to social media to share a harrowing message about the ongoing tragedy in Gaza. In his post, Lazzarini described the devastating toll the genocidal war is taking, calling Gaza “no place for children.” Citing UNICEF figures, Lazzarini revealed that 14,500 Palestinian children have been killed since the start of the war, amounting to an unimaginable rate of “one child killed every hour”. “These are not numbers. These are lives cut short,” he wrote, stressing the unimaginable loss of young lives. Lazzarini’s post highlighted not only the fatalities but also the lasting scars on those who survive. “Those who survive are scarred physically and emotionally. Deprived of learning, boys and girls in Gaza sift through the rubble,” he said. His words carried a stark warning about the long-term consequences for Gaza’s youth. “The clock is ticking for these children. They are losing their lives, their futures, and mostly their hope,” the Commissioner-General stated. The post has resonated widely on social media, prompting calls for immediate action to protect Gaza’s children and provide humanitarian assistance. Lazzarini ended with a powerful reminder that “Killing children cannot be justified.” Childhood innocence has been overshadowed by devastation, trauma, and deprivation in one of the most heart-wrenching places on earth, UNICEF’s Communication Specialist Rosalia Bollen said. In an emotional statement, Bollen painted a harrowing picture of the daily reality for over a million children trapped in Gaza, urging the global community to take immediate action to save lives and ease suffering. “Children in Gaza are cold, sick, and traumatized,” said Bollen. “Hunger and malnutrition, coupled with dire living conditions, are putting their lives at risk. Over 96% of women and children cannot meet their basic nutritional needs. Most are surviving on rationed flour, lentils, pasta, and canned food, a diet that slowly compromises their health.” The scale of the humanitarian crisis has deepened dramatically, with aid entering Gaza at a trickle. Bollen revealed that in November, an average of only 65 truckloads of assistance entered Gaza per day, compared to 500 daily before the war. The northern part of Gaza, under siege for more than 75 days, has been particularly affected, with children in urgent need unable to access essential aid for over 10 weeks. “Gaza must be one of the most heartbreaking places on earth for humanitarians. Every small effort to save a child’s life is undone by fierce devastation,” she said. According to Bollen, over 14,500 children have been reportedly killed in the past 14 months, with thousands more injured. In a chilling briefing, Bollen shared the story of five-year-old Saad, a boy who lost his eyesight in a bombing and sustained severe injuries. “When I met him, he told me: ‘My eyes went to heaven before I did.’ Hearing those words and seeing his distress was unbearable,” Bollen recounted. As Gaza enters the cold winter months, the situation for children has worsened. Many lack adequate clothing and are forced to search the rubble for scraps of plastic to burn for warmth. Hospitals are overwhelmed, running on limited fuel and lacking basic supplies and medicines. Diseases are spreading, further endangering vulnerable children. “The suffering is not merely physical; it is also psychological,” said Bollen, sharing the heart-wrenching story of a seven-month-old baby boy, also named Saad, who died of malnutrition after months of struggling to survive. “He was born in war and left this world without being given a chance to live in peace. I cannot even start to imagine the depth of suffering of his parents.” As the world prepares for festive celebrations, Bollen called on people to reflect on the plight of Gaza’s children and use their voices, political capital, and diplomatic leverage to push for urgent action. “We must push for the evacuation of grievously injured children to seek life-saving care elsewhere and demand a ceasefire to allow aid to enter at scale,” she said. Bollen’s plea concluded with a stark warning: “Every day without action steals another day from Gaza’s children. Every delay costs more lives. This war should haunt every one of us. Gaza’s children cannot wait.” As winter tightens its grip on Gaza, the world must decide: will it stand by or stand up for the most vulnerable in society?Premier League 2024/25: Crystal Palace and Leicester City secure three points
SANTA CLARA — No Brock Purdy. No Nick Bosa. No chance for the 49ers on Sunday in Green Bay? “We’re missing two good players definitely but we’ll have a lot of good players out there,” 49ers coach Kyle Shanahan countered. “By no means do we not have a chance to win. We’ll fight our tails off. We’ll expect a real good game.” Purdy’s throwing-shoulder soreness will force him to miss his first game due to injury since becoming the 49ers’ starting quarterback nearly two years ago, and that thrusts ninth-year journeyman Brandon Allen into his 10th career start and first since 2021 with Cincinnati. Bosa’s oblique and hip injuries will sideline him for his first game of this wobbly season. Also ruled out were cornerback Charvarius Ward (personal), return specialist Jacob Cowing (concussion), defensive tackle Kevin Givens (groin) and linebacker Tatum Bethune (knee), while left tackle Trent Williams (ankle) is questionable as a game-time decision for a second straight game. Tight end George Kittle (hamstring) and running back Christian McCaffrey (Achilles) are good to go for an offense that must make do without Purdy at the NFL’s most historic venue. Allen, who last threw a regular-season pass in 2022 as Joe Burrow’s backup in Cincinnati, will guide the 49ers’ offense in a key game as San Francisco aims to make a playoff push. “It’s an opportunity,” Allen said. “The circumstances are what they are. Our team all year long, we’ve been dealing with injuries here or there. It’s been a big next-man-up mentality. It’s definitely an opportunity for me to go out, play well, put our guys in a good position to win the game. “Obviously we want Brock back and healthy and all that,” Allen added. “For the time being, it is an opportunity for me.” Josh Dobbs, who lost out to Allen in training camp and the preseason for the QB2 role, will serve in that capacity Sunday at Lambeau Field, where neither quarterback has played a regular-season game. Rookie Tanner Mordecai likely will be elevated from the practice squad Saturday to serve as the emergency No. 3 quarterback. Purdy wore a resigned, dour expression but offered upbeat words as he walked through the locker room, saying: “We’re all good.” This is not how Shanahan scripted it earlier in the week. “(Purdy) got the MRI on Monday, we thought he just needed some rest and really weren’t concerned about not being there this week,” Shanahan said Friday. “I don’t want to say there’s long-term concern,” Shanahan said Friday. “We got the MRI on Monday. We thought he just needed some rest and really weren’t concerned about him not being good this week.” Purdy rested his arm Wednesday, then left the practice field Thursday after a few light throws. “It surprised him, surprised us how it felt, so we had to shut him down,” Shanahan said. “The MRI doesn’t look like (it’s serious) so it should be alright. But the way it responded this week, it’s really up in the air for next week. We’ll have to see on Monday.” The 49ers follow this week’s trip at Green Bay with a prime-time appearance next Sunday, Dec. 1 in Buffalo. “I know this is like the first time Brock’s missed a game probably in his life,” Allen said. “He’s a tough guy and I’m not too worried about it. I don’t think any of our guys are. He’ll rehab and get back as fast as he can.” No one is saying when Purdy got hurt in Sunday’s 20-17 loss to Seattle, whether it was from diving for the goal line on his first-quarter touchdown scramble or later in the game. Shanahan did note that Purdy struggled to keep his shoulder loose and threw on the sideline, then the pain intensified after the game and into Monday. “It was somewhere during that Seattle game and I’m not sure Brock knows,” general manager John Lynch said on KNBR. “He fought through it through the course of the game. I did see him during the course of the game, anytime there was a pause, he kept throwing. At that point, you’re feeling something but he was so focused on trying to win.” Shanahan lauded Allen as a “really good thrower” who “runs our offense well” and that “guys believe in him.” The feeling is mutual on Allen’s side, as he explained what it was like as Purdy’s stand-in on the starting unit in practice this week: “It’s been a blessing to have them in the huddle with me and the leadership that’s in the huddle, so I can just come in and fill the spot for Brock for now, just try to make some plays and get the ball in their hands.” Added Shanahan: “It’s not a big game-plan adjustment. This is something we didn’t think would happen early in the week. We were fully preparing for Brock to go.” The Packers prepared that way, too. Allen is no total stranger, however. Packers coach Matt LaFleur told reporters Friday in Green Bay, prior to Purdy’s no-show practice: “I know Brandon. I was with him in L.A. (in 2017). He’s been in the league a long time. But I wouldn’t expect their offense to change a whole bunch.” BOSA WILL REMAIN HOME While Purdy traveled with the 49ers to Green Bay, Bosa was staying behind to rehabilitating the upper-body injuries that forced him to miss Sunday’s fourth-quarter collapse against Seattle. It will be the first game Bosa has missed since Oct. 16, 2022 with a groin injury. The 49ers lost a road game that day to Atlanta 28-14 during a season in which Bosa was the NFL’s Defensive Player of the Year. Sam Okuayinonu figures to make his first career start in place of Bosa while Leonard Floyd makes his 11th start at the other defensive end slot. WILLIAMS QUESTIONABLE Williams, with the help of a pain-killing injection, made it through the Seattle loss at what he said afterwards was 65 percent. Although listed as questionable, Shanahan reiterated Williams’ status could go right up to kickoff. Jaylon Moore likely would start in place of Williams, if needed. WARD BACK NEXT WEEK? Ward, mourning the death of his 23-month-old daughter, was declared out but Shanahan hoped to have the All-Pro cornerback next week when the 49ers visit Buffalo. “He’s taken three full weeks off,” Shanahan said. “It’s not like dealing with all that stuff he’s getting workouts in and all that. We’re just happy to get him back in the building this week. We don’t want t put any pressure on him, hopefully he’ll be good to go next week.” Among those listed as questionable is guard/center Jon Feliciano, whose 21-day window of practicing while on injured reserve is about to expire. If the 49ers don’t put Feliciano on the 53-man roster by Monday, he’ll spend the rest of the season on injured reserve. PACKERS INJURIES Cornerback Jaire Alexander (knee) was ruled out after being unable to practice all week, and linebacker Edgerrin Cooper (hamstring) also will not suit up for Green Bay’s defense. Defensive tackle Colby Wooden is questionable as the only other Packers player on their injury report.