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As the woman weighed her options, she delved deeper into the factors influencing the cost of root canal treatment. The reputation and expertise of the dental professionals, the location and setting of the clinic, the quality of materials and equipment used, and the complexity of the case all played a role in determining the price of the procedure.On the other hand, Inter Milan will also be looking to maintain their strong form in the Champions League. The Italian giants have been in scintillating form domestically and will be keen to translate that success onto the European stage. With players of the caliber of Edin Dzeko, Nicolo Barella, and Denzel Dumfries in their ranks, Inter possess the quality and experience to trouble any opponent. Having already secured wins against Real Madrid and Sheriff Tiraspol, the Nerazzurri will be aiming to build on those results and make a statement against Leverkusen. With their attacking prowess and defensive solidity, Inter Milan will be a formidable opponent for the German side.Furthermore, the DJI Flip is rumored to feature intelligent flight modes, such as Follow Me, ActiveTrack, and Point of Interest, which will make it easier for users to achieve dynamic and engaging shots without the need for manual piloting skills. These automated features are designed to enhance the creative possibilities for users and unlock new ways of capturing aerial footage.With the ongoing fluctuations in global oil prices, the month of December brings another round of good news for consumers worldwide as oil prices hit a new low for the year. This significant drop in oil prices has sparked discussions and speculations on the possibility of further decreases in the near future. As we witness this downward trend in oil prices, it is important to understand the factors contributing to this decline and how it may impact various sectors and economies.
WASHINGTON — Special counsel Jack Smith moved to abandon two criminal cases against Donald Trump on Monday, acknowledging that Trump’s return to the White House will preclude attempts to federally prosecute him for retaining classified documents or trying to overturn his 2020 election defeat. The decision was inevitable, since longstanding Justice Department policy says sitting presidents cannot face criminal prosecution. Yet it was still a momentous finale to an unprecedented chapter in political and law enforcement history, as federal officials attempted to hold accountable a former president while he was simultaneously running for another term. Trump emerges indisputably victorious, having successfully delayed the investigations through legal maneuvers and then winning re-election despite indictments that described his actions as a threat to the country's constitutional foundations. People are also reading... FILE - Special counsel Jack Smith speaks to the media about an indictment of former President Donald Trump, Aug. 1, 2023, at an office of the Department of Justice in Washington. (AP Photo/J. Scott Applewhite, File) J. Scott Applewhite “I persevered, against all odds, and WON," Trump exulted in a post on Truth Social, his social media website. He also said that “these cases, like all of the other cases I have been forced to go through, are empty and lawless, and should never have been brought.” The judge in the election case granted prosecutors' dismissal request. A decision in the documents case was still pending on Monday afternoon. The outcome makes it clear that, when it comes to a president and criminal accusations, nothing supersedes the voters' own verdict. In court filings, Smith's team emphasized that the move to end their prosecutions was not a reflection of the merit of the cases but a recognition of the legal shield that surrounds any commander in chief. “That prohibition is categorical and does not turn on the gravity of the crimes charged, the strength of the Government’s proof, or the merits of the prosecution, which the Government stands fully behind,” prosecutors said in one of their filings. They wrote that Trump’s return to the White House “sets at odds two fundamental and compelling national interests: on the one hand, the Constitution’s requirement that the President must not be unduly encumbered in fulfilling his weighty responsibilities . . . and on the other hand, the Nation’s commitment to the rule of law.” In this situation, “the Constitution requires that this case be dismissed before the defendant is inaugurated,” they concluded. Smith’s team said it was leaving intact charges against two co-defendants in the classified documents case — Trump valet Walt Nauta and Mar-a-Lago property manager Carlos De Oliveira — because “no principle of temporary immunity applies to them.” Steven Cheung, Trump's incoming White House communications director, said Americans “want an immediate end to the political weaponization of our justice system and we look forward to uniting our country.” Trump has long described the investigations as politically motivated, and he has vowed to fire Smith as soon as he takes office in January. Now he will start his second term free from criminal scrutiny by the government that he will lead. The election case brought last year was once seen as one of the most serious legal threats facing Trump as he tried to reclaim the White House. He was indicted for plotting to overturn his defeat to Joe Biden in 2020, an effort that climaxed with his supporters' violent attack on the U.S. Capitol on Jan. 6, 2021. President-elect Donald Trump arrives before the launch of the sixth test flight of the SpaceX Starship rocket Tuesday, Nov. 19, 2024 in Boca Chica, Texas. (Brandon Bell/Pool via AP) Brandon Bell But the case quickly stalled amid legal fighting over Trump’s sweeping claims of immunity from prosecution for acts he took while in the White House. The U.S. Supreme Court in July ruled for the first time that former presidents have broad immunity from prosecution, and sent the case back to U.S. District Judge Tanya Chutkan to determine which allegations in the indictment, if any, could proceed to trial. Listen now and subscribe: Apple Podcasts | Spotify | RSS Feed | SoundStack | All Of Our Podcasts The case was just beginning to pick up steam again in the trial court in the weeks leading up to this year’s election. Smith’s team in October filed a lengthy brief laying out new evidence they planned to use against him at trial, accusing him of “resorting to crimes” in an increasingly desperate effort to overturn the will of voters after he lost to Biden. In dismissing the case, Chutkan acknowledged prosecutors' request to do so “without prejudice,” raising the possibility that they could try to bring charges against Trump when his term is over. She wrote that is “consistent with the Government’s understanding that the immunity afforded to a sitting President is temporary, expiring when they leave office.” But such a move may be barred by the statute of limitations, and Trump may also try to pardon himself while in office. immunity afforded to a sitting President is temporary, expiring when they leave office. The separate case involving classified documents had been widely seen as legally clear cut, especially because the conduct in question occurred after Trump left the White House and lost the powers of the presidency. The indictment included dozens of felony counts accusing him of illegally hoarding classified records from his presidency at his Mar-a-Lago estate in Palm Beach, Florida, and obstructing federal efforts to get them back. He has pleaded not guilty and denied wrongdoing. The case quickly became snarled by delays, with U.S. District Judge Aileen Cannon slow to issue rulings — which favored Trump’s strategy of pushing off deadlines in all his criminal cases — while also entertaining defense motions and arguments that experts said other judges would have dispensed with without hearings. In May, she indefinitely canceled the trial date amid a series of unresolved legal issues before dismissing the case outright two months later. Smith’s team appealed the decision, but now has given up that effort. Trump faced two other state prosecutions while running for president. One them, a New York case involving hush money payments, resulted in a conviction on felony charges of falsifying business records. It was the first time a former president had been found guilty of a crime. The sentencing in that case is on hold as Trump's lawyers try to have the conviction dismissed before he takes office, arguing that letting the verdict stand will interfere with his presidential transition and duties. Manhattan District Attorney Alvin Bragg's office is fighting the dismissal but has indicated that it would be open to delaying sentencing until Trump leaves office. Bragg, a Democrat, has said the solution needs to balance the obligations of the presidency with “the sanctity of the jury verdict." Trump was also indicted in Georgia along with 18 others accused of participating in a sprawling scheme to illegally overturn the 2020 presidential election there. Any trial appears unlikely there while Trump holds office. The prosecution already was on hold after an appeals court agreed to review whether to remove Fulton County District Attorney Fani Willis over her romantic relationship with the special prosecutor she had hired to lead the case. Four defendants have pleaded guilty after reaching deals with prosecutors. Trump and the others have pleaded not guilty. Associated Press writers Colleen Long, Michael Sisak and Lindsay Whitehurst contributed to this story. ___ Special Counsel Jack Smith plans to step down before Trump’s inauguration, according to The New York Times. Straight Arrow News 12 political cartoons size up Donald Trump's Cabinet picks Here are the people Trump has picked for key positions so far President-elect Donald Trump Among President-elect Donald Trump's picks are Susie Wiles for chief of staff, Florida Sen. Marco Rubio for secretary of state, former Democratic House member Tulsi Gabbard for director of national intelligence and Florida Rep. Matt Gaetz for attorney general. Evan Vucci, Associated Press Susie Wiles, White House Chief of Staff Susie Wiles, 67, was a senior adviser to Trump's 2024 presidential campaign and its de facto manager. Evan Vucci, Associated Press Marco Rubio, Secretary of State Trump named Florida Sen. Marco Rubio to be secretary of state, making a former sharp critic his choice to be the new administration's top diplomat.Rubio, 53, is a noted hawk on China, Cuba and Iran, and was a finalist to be Trump's running mate on the Republican ticket last summer. Rubio is the vice chairman of the Senate Intelligence Committee and a member of the Senate Foreign Relations Committee.“He will be a strong Advocate for our Nation, a true friend to our Allies, and a fearless Warrior who will never back down to our adversaries,” Trump said of Rubio in a statement.The announcement punctuates the hard pivot Rubio has made with Trump, whom the senator called a “con man" during his unsuccessful campaign for the 2016 GOP presidential nomination.Their relationship improved dramatically while Trump was in the White House. And as Trump campaigned for the presidency a third time, Rubio cheered his proposals. For instance, Rubio, who more than a decade ago helped craft immigration legislation that included a path to citizenship for people in the U.S. illegally, now supports Trump's plan to use the U.S. military for mass deportations. Wilfredo Lee, Associated Press Pete Hegseth, Secretary of Defense Pete Hegseth, 44, is a co-host of Fox News Channel’s “Fox & Friends Weekend” and has been a contributor with the network since 2014, where he developed a friendship with Trump, who made regular appearances on the show.Hegseth lacks senior military or national security experience. If confirmed by the Senate, he would inherit the top job during a series of global crises — ranging from Russia’s war in Ukraine and the ongoing attacks in the Middle East by Iranian proxies to the push for a cease-fire between Israel, Hamas and Hezbollah and escalating worries about the growing alliance between Russia and North Korea.Hegseth is also the author of “The War on Warriors: Behind the Betrayal of the Men Who Keep Us Free,” published earlier this year. George Walker IV, Associated Press Pam Bondi, Attorney General Trump tapped Pam Bondi, 59, to be attorney general after U.S. Rep. Matt Gaetz withdrew his name from consideration.She was Florida's first female attorney general, serving between 2011 and 2019. She also was on Trump’s legal team during his first impeachment trial in 2020.Considered a loyalist, she served as part of a Trump-allied outside group that helped lay the groundwork for his future administration called the America First Policy Institute.Bondi was among a group of Republicans who showed up to support Trump at his hush money criminal trial in New York that ended in May with a conviction on 34 felony counts. A fierce defender of Trump, she also frequently appears on Fox News and has been a critic of the criminal cases against him. Derik Hamilton Kristi Noem, Secretary of Homeland Security Trump picked South Dakota Gov. Kristi Noem, a well-known conservative who faced sharp criticism for telling a story in her memoir about shooting a rambunctious dog, to lead an agency crucial to the president-elect’s hardline immigration agenda.Noem used her two terms leading a tiny state to vault to a prominent position in Republican politics.South Dakota is usually a political afterthought. But during the COVID-19 pandemic, Noem did not order restrictions that other states had issued and instead declared her state “open for business.” Trump held a fireworks rally at Mount Rushmore in July 2020 in one of the first large gatherings of the pandemic.She takes over a department with a sprawling mission. In addition to key immigration agencies, the Department of Homeland Security oversees natural disaster response, the U.S. Secret Service, and Transportation Security Administration agents who work at airports. Matt Rourke, Associated Press Doug Burgum, Secretary of the Interior The governor of North Dakota, who was once little-known outside his state, Burgum is a former Republican presidential primary contender who endorsed Trump, and spent months traveling to drum up support for him, after dropping out of the race.Burgum was a serious contender to be Trump’s vice presidential choice this summer. The two-term governor was seen as a possible pick because of his executive experience and business savvy. Burgum also has close ties to deep-pocketed energy industry CEOs.Trump made the announcement about Burgum joining his incoming administration while addressing a gala at his Mar-a-Lago club, and said a formal statement would be coming the following day.In comments to reporters before Trump took the stage, Burgum said that, in recent years, the power grid is deteriorating in many parts of the country, which he said could raise national security concerns but also drive up prices enough to increase inflation.“There's just a sense of urgency, and a sense of understanding in the Trump administration,” Burgum said. AP Photo/Alex Brandon Robert F. Kennedy Jr., Secretary of Health and Human Services Robert F. Kennedy Jr. ran for president as a Democrat, than as an independent, and then endorsed Trump. He's the son of Democratic icon Robert Kennedy, who was assassinated during his own presidential campaign.The nomination of Kennedy to lead the Department of Health and Human Services alarmed people who are concerned about his record of spreading unfounded fears about vaccines. For example, he has long advanced the debunked idea that vaccines cause autism. Evan Vucci, Associated Press Scott Bessent, Treasury Secretary Scott Bessent, 62, is a former George Soros money manager and an advocate for deficit reduction.He's the founder of hedge fund Key Square Capital Management, after having worked on-and-off for Soros Fund Management since 1991. If confirmed by the Senate, he would be the nation’s first openly gay treasury secretary.He told Bloomberg in August that he decided to join Trump’s campaign in part to attack the mounting U.S. national debt. That would include slashing government programs and other spending.“This election cycle is the last chance for the U.S. to grow our way out of this mountain of debt without becoming a sort of European-style socialist democracy,” he said then. Matt Kelley, Associated Press Lori Chavez-DeRemer, Labor Secretary Oregon Republican U.S. Rep. Lori Chavez-DeRemer narrowly lost her reelection bid this month, but received strong backing from union members in her district.As a potential labor secretary, she would oversee the Labor Department’s workforce, its budget and put forth priorities that impact workers’ wages, health and safety, ability to unionize, and employer’s rights to fire employers, among other responsibilities.Chavez-DeRemer is one of few House Republicans to endorse the “Protecting the Right to Organize” or PRO Act would allow more workers to conduct organizing campaigns and would add penalties for companies that violate workers’ rights. The act would also weaken “right-to-work” laws that allow employees in more than half the states to avoid participating in or paying dues to unions that represent workers at their places of employment. Andrew Harnik, Associated Press Scott Turner, Housing and Urban Development Scott Turner is a former NFL player and White House aide. He ran the White House Opportunity and Revitalization Council during Trump’s first term in office. Trump, in a statement, credited Turner, the highest-ranking Black person he’s yet selected for his administration, with “helping to lead an Unprecedented Effort that Transformed our Country’s most distressed communities.” Andrew Harnik, Associated Press Sean Duffy, Secretary of Transportation Sean Duffy is a former House member from Wisconsin who was one of Trump's most visible defenders on cable news. Duffy served in the House for nearly nine years, sitting on the Financial Services Committee and chairing the subcommittee on insurance and housing. He left Congress in 2019 for a TV career and has been the host of “The Bottom Line” on Fox Business.Before entering politics, Duffy was a reality TV star on MTV, where he met his wife, “Fox and Friends Weekend” co-host Rachel Campos-Duffy. They have nine children. Jacquelyn Martin, Associated Press Chris Wright, Secretary of Energy A campaign donor and CEO of Denver-based Liberty Energy, Write is a vocal advocate of oil and gas development, including fracking — a key pillar of Trump’s quest to achieve U.S. “energy dominance” in the global market.Wright also has been one of the industry’s loudest voices against efforts to fight climate change. He said the climate movement around the world is “collapsing under its own weight.” The Energy Department is responsible for advancing energy, environmental and nuclear security of the United States.Wright also won support from influential conservatives, including oil and gas tycoon Harold Hamm. Hamm, executive chairman of Oklahoma-based Continental Resources, a major shale oil company, is a longtime Trump supporter and adviser who played a key role on energy issues in Trump’s first term. Andy Cross, The Denver Post via AP Linda McMahon, Secretary of Education President-elect Donald Trump tapped billionaire professional wrestling mogul Linda McMahon to be secretary of the Education Department, tasked with overseeing an agency Trump promised to dismantle.McMahon led the Small Business Administration during Trump’s initial term from 2017 to 2019 and twice ran unsuccessfully as a Republican for the U.S. Senate in Connecticut.She’s seen as a relative unknown in education circles, though she expressed support for charter schools and school choice. She served on the Connecticut Board of Education for a year starting in 2009 and has spent years on the board of trustees for Sacred Heart University in Connecticut. Manuel Balce Ceneta, Associated Press Brooke Rollins, Secretary of Agriculture Brooke Rollins, who graduated from Texas A&M University with a degree in agricultural development, is a longtime Trump associate who served as White House domestic policy chief during his first presidency.The 52-year-old is president and CEO of the America First Policy Institute, a group helping to lay the groundwork for a second Trump administration. She previously served as an aide to former Texas Gov. Rick Perry and ran a think tank, the Texas Public Policy Foundation. Evan Vucci Howard Lutnick, Secretary of Commerce Trump chose Howard Lutnick, head of brokerage and investment bank Cantor Fitzgerald and a cryptocurrency enthusiast, as his nominee for commerce secretary, a position in which he'd have a key role in carrying out Trump's plans to raise and enforce tariffs.Trump made the announcement Tuesday on his social media platform, Truth Social.Lutnick is a co-chair of Trump’s transition team, along with Linda McMahon, the former wrestling executive who previously led Trump’s Small Business Administration. Both are tasked with putting forward candidates for key roles in the next administration.The nomination would put Lutnick in charge of a sprawling Cabinet agency that is involved in funding new computer chip factories, imposing trade restrictions, releasing economic data and monitoring the weather. It is also a position in which connections to CEOs and the wider business community are crucial. AP Photo/Evan Vucci Doug Collins, Secretary of Veterans Affairs Doug Collins is a former Republican congressman from Georgia who gained recognition for defending Trump during his first impeachment trial, which centered on U.S. assistance for Ukraine. Trump was impeached for urging Ukraine to investigate Joe Biden in 2019 during the Democratic presidential nomination, but he was acquitted by the Senate.Collins has also served in the armed forces himself and is currently a chaplain in the United States Air Force Reserve Command."We must take care of our brave men and women in uniform, and Doug will be a great advocate for our Active Duty Servicemembers, Veterans, and Military Families to ensure they have the support they need," Trump said in a statement about nominating Collins to lead the Department of Veterans Affairs. John Bazemore, Associated Press Karoline Leavitt, White House press secretary Karoline Leavitt, 27, was Trump's campaign press secretary and currently a spokesperson for his transition. She would be the youngest White House press secretary in history.The White House press secretary typically serves as the public face of the administration and historically has held daily briefings for the press corps.Leavitt, a New Hampshire native, was a spokesperson for MAGA Inc., a super PAC supporting Trump, before joining his 2024 campaign. In 2022, she ran for Congress in New Hampshire, winning a 10-way Republican primary before losing to Democratic Rep. Chris Pappas.Leavitt worked in the White House press office during Trump's first term before she became communications director for New York Republican Rep. Elise Stefanik, Trump's choice for U.S. ambassador to the United Nations. Ted Shaffrey, Associated Press Tulsi Gabbard, National Intelligence Director Former Hawaii Rep. Tulsi Gabbard has been tapped by Trump to be director of national intelligence, keeping with the trend to stock his Cabinet with loyal personalities rather than veteran professionals in their requisite fields.Gabbard, 43, was a Democratic House member who unsuccessfully sought the party's 2020 presidential nomination before leaving the party in 2022. She endorsed Trump in August and campaigned often with him this fall.“I know Tulsi will bring the fearless spirit that has defined her illustrious career to our Intelligence Community,” Trump said in a statement.Gabbard, who has served in the Army National Guard for more than two decades, deploying to Iraq and Kuwait, would come to the role as somewhat of an outsider compared to her predecessor. The current director, Avril Haines, was confirmed by the Senate in 2021 following several years in a number of top national security and intelligence positions. Evan Vucci, Associated Press John Ratcliffe, Central Intelligence Agency Director Trump has picked John Ratcliffe, a former Texas congressman who served as director of national intelligence during his first administration, to be director of the Central Intelligence Agency in his next.Ratcliffe was director of national intelligence during the final year and a half of Trump's first term, leading the U.S. government's spy agencies during the coronavirus pandemic.“I look forward to John being the first person ever to serve in both of our Nation's highest Intelligence positions,” Trump said in a statement, calling him a “fearless fighter for the Constitutional Rights of all Americans” who would ensure “the Highest Levels of National Security, and PEACE THROUGH STRENGTH.” Manuel Balce Ceneta, Associated Press Lee Zeldin, Environmental Protection Agency Administrator Trump has chosen former New York Rep. Lee Zeldin to serve as his pick to lead the Environmental Protection Agency.Zeldin does not appear to have any experience in environmental issues, but is a longtime supporter of the former president. The 44-year-old former U.S. House member from New York wrote on X, “We will restore US energy dominance, revitalize our auto industry to bring back American jobs, and make the US the global leader of AI.” “We will do so while protecting access to clean air and water,” he added.During his campaign, Trump often attacked the Biden administration's promotion of electric vehicles, and incorrectly referring to a tax credit for EV purchases as a government mandate. Trump also often told his audiences during the campaign his administration would “Drill, baby, drill,” referring to his support for expanded petroleum exploration.In a statement, Trump said Zeldin “will ensure fair and swift deregulatory decisions that will be enacted in a way to unleash the power of American businesses, while at the same time maintaining the highest environmental standards, including the cleanest air and water on the planet.” Matt Rourke, Associated Press Brendan Carr, Chairman of the Federal Communications Commission Trump has named Brendan Carr, the senior Republican on the Federal Communications Commission, as the new chairman of the agency tasked with regulating broadcasting, telecommunications and broadband.Carr is a longtime member of the commission and served previously as the FCC’s general counsel. He has been unanimously confirmed by the Senate three times and was nominated by both Trump and President Joe Biden to the commission.Carr made past appearances on “Fox News Channel," including when he decried Democratic Vice President Kamala Harris' pre-Election Day appearance on “Saturday Night Live.” He wrote an op-ed last month defending a satellite company owned by Trump supporter Elon Musk. Jonathan Newton - pool, ASSOCIATED PRESS Elise Stefanik, Ambassador to the United Nations Rep. Elise Stefanik is a representative from New York and one of Trump's staunchest defenders going back to his first impeachment.Elected to the House in 2014, Stefanik was selected by her GOP House colleagues as House Republican Conference chair in 2021, when former Wyoming Rep. Liz Cheney was removed from the post after publicly criticizing Trump for falsely claiming he won the 2020 election. Stefanik, 40, has served in that role ever since as the third-ranking member of House leadership.Stefanik’s questioning of university presidents over antisemitism on their campuses helped lead to two of those presidents resigning, further raising her national profile.If confirmed, she would represent American interests at the U.N. as Trump vows to end the war waged by Russia against Ukraine begun in 2022. He has also called for peace as Israel continues its offensive against Hamas in Gaza and its invasion of Lebanon to target Hezbollah. Jose Luis Magana, Associated Press Matt Whitaker, Ambassador to NATO President-elect Donald Trump says he's chosen former acting Attorney General Matt Whitaker to serve as U.S. ambassador to NATO. Trump has expressed skepticism about the Western military alliance for years. Trump said in a statement Wednesday that Whitaker is “a strong warrior and loyal Patriot” who “will ensure the United States’ interests are advanced and defended” and “strengthen relationships with our NATO Allies, and stand firm in the face of threats to Peace and Stability.” The choice of Whitaker as the nation’s representative to the North Atlantic Treaty Organization is an unusual one, given his background is as a lawyer and not in foreign policy. Andrew Harnik, Associated Press Mike Huckabee, Ambassador to Israel Trump will nominate former Arkansas Gov. Mike Huckabee to be ambassador to Israel.Huckabee is a staunch defender of Israel and his intended nomination comes as Trump has promised to align U.S. foreign policy more closely with Israel's interests as it wages wars against the Iran-backed Hamas and Hezbollah.“He loves Israel, and likewise the people of Israel love him,” Trump said in a statement. “Mike will work tirelessly to bring about peace in the Middle East.”Huckabee, who ran unsuccessfully for the Republican presidential nomination in 2008 and 2016, has been a popular figure among evangelical Christian conservatives, many of whom support Israel due to Old Testament writings that Jews are God’s chosen people and that Israel is their rightful homeland.Trump has been praised by some in this important Republican voting bloc for moving the U.S. embassy in Israel from Tel Aviv to Jerusalem. Oded Balilty, Associated Press Steven Witkoff, Special Envoy to the Middle East Trump on Tuesday named real estate investor Steven Witkoff to be special envoy to the Middle East.The 67-year-old Witkoff is the president-elect's golf partner and was golfing with him at Trump's club in West Palm Beach, Florida, on Sept. 15, when the former president was the target of a second attempted assassination.Witkoff “is a Highly Respected Leader in Business and Philanthropy,” Trump said of Witkoff in a statement. “Steve will be an unrelenting Voice for PEACE, and make us all proud."Trump also named Witkoff co-chair, with former Georgia Sen. Kelly Loeffler, of his inaugural committee. Evan Vucci, Associated Press Mike Waltz, National Security Adviser Trump asked Rep. Michael Waltz, R-Fla., a retired Army National Guard officer and war veteran, to be his national security adviser, Trump announced in a statement Tuesday.The move puts Waltz in the middle of national security crises, ranging from efforts to provide weapons to Ukraine and worries about the growing alliance between Russia and North Korea to the persistent attacks in the Middle East by Iran proxies and the push for a cease-fire between Israel and Hamas and Hezbollah.“Mike has been a strong champion of my America First Foreign Policy agenda,” Trump's statement said, "and will be a tremendous champion of our pursuit of Peace through Strength!”Waltz is a three-term GOP congressman from east-central Florida. He served multiple tours in Afghanistan and also worked in the Pentagon as a policy adviser when Donald Rumsfeld and Robert Gates were defense chiefs.He is considered hawkish on China, and called for a U.S. boycott of the 2022 Winter Olympics in Beijing due to its involvement in the origin of COVID-19 and its mistreatment of the minority Muslim Uighur population. Ted Shaffrey, Associated Press Stephen Miller, Deputy Chief of Staff for Policy Stephen Miller, an immigration hardliner, was a vocal spokesperson during the presidential campaign for Trump's priority of mass deportations. The 39-year-old was a senior adviser during Trump's first administration.Miller has been a central figure in some of Trump's policy decisions, notably his move to separate thousands of immigrant families.Trump argued throughout the campaign that the nation's economic, national security and social priorities could be met by deporting people who are in the United States illegally. Since Trump left office in 2021, Miller has served as the president of America First Legal, an organization made up of former Trump advisers aimed at challenging the Biden administration, media companies, universities and others over issues such as free speech and national security. Evan Vucci, Associated Press Tom Homan, ‘Border Czar’ Thomas Homan, 62, has been tasked with Trump’s top priority of carrying out the largest deportation operation in the nation’s history.Homan, who served under Trump in his first administration leading U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement, was widely expected to be offered a position related to the border, an issue Trump made central to his campaign.Though Homan has insisted such a massive undertaking would be humane, he has long been a loyal supporter of Trump's policy proposals, suggesting at a July conference in Washington that he would be willing to "run the biggest deportation operation this country’s ever seen.”Democrats have criticized Homan for his defending Trump's “zero tolerance” policy on border crossings during his first administration, which led to the separation of thousands of parents and children seeking asylum at the border. John Bazemore, Associated Press Dr. Mehmet Oz, Centers for Medicaid and Medicare Services administrator Dr. Mehmet Oz, 64, is a former heart surgeon who hosted “The Dr. Oz Show,” a long-running daytime television talk show. He ran unsuccessfully for the U.S. Senate as the Republican nominee in 2022 and is an outspoken supporter of Trump, who endorsed Oz's bid for elected office. Matt Rourke, Associated Press Elon Musk and Vivek Ramaswamy to advise White House on government efficiency Elon Musk, left, and Vivek Ramaswamy speak before Republican presidential nominee former President Donald Trump at an Oct. 27 campaign rally at Madison Square Garden in New York.Trump on Tuesday said Musk and former Republican presidential candidate Ramaswamy will lead a new “Department of Government Efficiency" — which is not, despite the name, a government agency.The acronym “DOGE” is a nod to Musk's favorite cryptocurrency, dogecoin. Trump said Musk and Ramaswamy will work from outside the government to offer the White House “advice and guidance” and will partner with the Office of Management and Budget to “drive large scale structural reform, and create an entrepreneurial approach to Government never seen before.” He added the move would shock government systems. It's not clear how the organization will operate.Musk, owner of X and CEO of Tesla and SpaceX, has been a constant presence at Mar-a-Lago since Trump won the presidential election. Ramaswamy suspended his campaign in January and threw his support behind Trump. Trump said the two will “pave the way for my Administration to dismantle Government Bureaucracy, slash excess regulations, cut wasteful expenditures, and restructure Federal Agencies.” Evan Vucci, Associated Press photos Russell Vought, Office of Management and Budget Russell Vought held the position during Trump’s first presidency.After Trump’s initial term ended, Vought founded the Center for Renewing America, a think tank that describes its mission as “renew a consensus of America as a nation under God.”Vought was closely involved with Project 2025, a conservative blueprint for Trump’s second term that he tried to distance himself from during the campaign.Vought has also previously worked as the executive and budget director for the Republican Study Committee, a caucus for conservative House Republicans. He also worked at Heritage Action, the political group tied to The Heritage Foundation, a conservative think tank. Evan Vucci, Associated Press Additional selections to the incoming White House Dan Scavino, deputy chief of staffScavino, whom Trump's transition referred to in a statement as one of “Trump's longest serving and most trusted aides,” was a senior adviser to Trump's 2024 campaign, as well as his 2016 and 2020 campaigns. He will be deputy chief of staff and assistant to the president.Scavino had run Trump's social media profile in the White House during his first administration. He was also held in contempt of Congress in 2022 after a month-long refusal to comply with a subpoena from the House committee’s investigation into the Jan. 6, 2021, attack on the U.S. Capitol.James Blair, deputy chief of staffBlair was political director for Trump's 2024 campaign and for the Republican National Committee. He will be deputy chief of staff for legislative, political and public affairs and assistant to the president.Blair was key to Trump's economic messaging during his winning White House comeback campaign this year, a driving force behind the candidate's “Trump can fix it” slogan and his query to audiences this fall if they were better off than four years ago.Taylor Budowich, deputy chief of staffBudowich is a veteran Trump campaign aide who launched and directed Make America Great Again, Inc., a super PAC that supported Trump's 2024 campaign. He will be deputy chief of staff for communications and personnel and assistant to the president.Budowich also had served as a spokesman for Trump after his presidency.William McGinley, White House counselMcGinley was White House Cabinet secretary during Trump's first administration, and was outside legal counsel for the Republican National Committee's election integrity effort during the 2024 campaign.In a statement, Trump called McGinley “a smart and tenacious lawyer who will help me advance our America First agenda, while fighting for election integrity and against the weaponization of law enforcement.” Jose Luis Magana, Associated Press Get Government & Politics updates in your inbox!
In a remarkable display of strength and investor confidence, the A-share market in China saw a staggering volume surge of over 200 billion yuan within the first 10 minutes of opening for trading today. This unexpected and significant spike caught many analysts and investors off guard, leading to a flurry of activity and excitement in the trading halls.Vijay's letter begins by addressing the students as his "dear sisters" and expressing his distress over the increasing number of social atrocities and crimes against women in Tamil Nadu. He questions who the students can turn to for protection, emphasizing that the rulers and authorities have failed to provide adequate safety and security. Chennai: Actor-politician and president of Tamizhaga Vettri Kazhagam (TVK) Vijay has written a heartfelt letter to students, expressing his deep concern and pain over the rising social injustices, law and order violations, and sexual crimes against women in Tamil Nadu. The letter comes in the wake of the shocking sexual assault incident involving a student at Anna University in Chennai. Vijay’s letter begins by addressing the students as his “dear sisters” and expressing his distress over the increasing number of social atrocities and crimes against women in the state. He questions who the students can turn to for protection, emphasizing that the rulers and authorities have failed to provide adequate safety and security. Vijay’s Emotional Appeal: Actor Writes to Students, Urges Govt to Ensure Women’s Safety The actor reassures the students that he will stand firm with them as a brother and a fortress, urging them not to worry and focus on their education. He vows to work together with the students to create a safe Tamil Nadu, where women can live without fear of violence or harassment. Earlier, Vijay had condemned the Anna University sexual assault incident on social media platform, X. He had urged the Tamil Nadu government to take prompt legal action against the accused and ensure that he is punished. Vijay had also suggested that the government utilize the Nirbhaya fund to install smart poles with emergency buttons, CCTV cameras, and telephones in public places, particularly in areas where women are not safe. The Tamil Nadu government has faced criticism for its handling of the Anna University incident, with many accusing the authorities of failing to provide adequate support and protection to the victim. Meanwhile, sources told us that Vijay plans to meet Tamil Nadu Governor RN Ravi at 1 pm today. He is likely to petition the Governor over the Anna University sexual assault case. Click for more latest Tamil Nadu news . Also get top headlines and latest news from India and around the world at News9. Assistant News Editor who covers Tamil Nadu affairs ranging from politics to crime. He has over ten years of versatile experience in Journalism including print, TV & digital. Bike & Jeep lover ❤️
The New Zealand Government has launched a science-based, standardized methodology for measuring farm-level greenhouse gas emissions, delivering on its Q4 commitment to restore certainty and credibility in the agriculture sector. The initiative was announced today by Agriculture Minister Todd McClay. A Simplified and Trustworthy System “Our farmers are among the most carbon-efficient food producers globally, but they need reliable tools to measure and manage emissions effectively,” said Mr. McClay. The new methodology aims to reduce complexity for farmers by replacing the more than 10 existing calculators with a consistent approach. It leverages farm-specific inputs, including: Stock counts and supplementary feed usage . Dairy production , fertilizer application , and farm region data . This methodology is designed to be accessible, low-cost , and auditable , utilizing readily available farm data while ensuring alignment across all calculators. Updates will be made regularly to integrate advancements in science and technology. Addressing Sector Demands The initiative was developed collaboratively with industry stakeholders to meet the sector's demand for transparent and reliable tools. “This is a direct response to what our farmers have been asking for,” Mr. McClay added. Farmers previously faced administrative burdens and inconsistencies due to the varying methods used by existing calculators. By unifying these tools under a single science-based framework, the Government seeks to simplify compliance while maintaining the credibility of New Zealand's agricultural sustainability. Investment in Emission-Reducing Technologies To complement this effort, the Government has allocated $400 million over four years to develop and deploy emission-reducing technologies. This funding will support innovations like methane-reducing feed additives, advanced livestock genetics, and improvements in soil management techniques. Ensuring Competitiveness and Sustainability The Government emphasized its commitment to striking a balance between environmental obligations and economic sustainability. “We are committed to working with farmers to meet emissions goals without shutting down farms or sending jobs and production overseas,” Mr. McClay said. This methodology aligns with New Zealand's ambition to remain a global leader in sustainable, high-quality food production. Farmers will now have the tools and resources necessary to measure, manage, and reduce their environmental footprint while preserving the country's reputation for carbon-efficient agriculture. Looking Ahead The rollout of the standardized methodology is expected to improve data transparency and foster collaboration across the agriculture sector. By providing a reliable foundation for emissions management, the initiative supports farmers in making informed decisions that contribute to New Zealand's environmental and economic goals. Further details about training programs and integration with existing farm management systems will be shared in the coming months.Ola Electric Stock Faces 3% Drop Following Exit of CMO Anshul Khandelwal and CTO Suvonil ChatterjeeGirona, a Spanish football club, recently made headlines by extending an invitation to Pep Guardiola, the highly successful manager of Manchester City, to join their ranks. Guardiola, a renowned figure in the football world, is known for his tactical acumen and successful stints at Barcelona, Bayern Munich, and Manchester City. The invitation from Girona came as a surprise to many, as Guardiola is currently leading a formidable team at Manchester City. While the prospect of Guardiola joining Girona may seem enticing, it is unlikely that he will make the move. As a seasoned manager with a track record of success in top-tier leagues, Guardiola is likely to continue his work at Manchester City, where he has already achieved great success.
The international community has been quick to react to the Israeli airstrikes, with calls for de-escalation and a return to diplomatic efforts to resolve the conflict. The United Nations has expressed its deep concern about the situation and called on all parties to exercise restraint and respect international law. The ongoing violence in Syria has already had devastating consequences for the Syrian people, and any further escalation could have far-reaching implications for regional stability.In this episode of , Jason Fitz and Frank Schwab dive into the fallout from every game of Week 17 NFL action, from a looming monster matchup to a coaching decision that could change the landscape of the 2024 season. Fitz and Frank agree: next week’s showdown between the Minnesota Vikings and Detroit Lions is one of the most high-stakes regular season games of all time, and Campbell has a huge decision to make about whether or not to sit players on Monday night. As the duo breaks down the week’s key matchups, they touch on Sam Darnold’s explosive performance for the Vikings, why the Green Bay Packers still haven't proven they can beat top teams and how the Los Angeles Chargers are shaping up for a playoff run. The Denver Broncos suffered a heartbreaking loss to the Cincinnati Bengals with playoff hopes on the line, while the New York Jets’ disastrous performance against the Buffalo Bills raised even more questions about their future. Fitz and Schwab also dig into Brock Bowers breaking records and the Indianapolis Colts’ playoff chances crumbling with a disastrous performance. Fitz and Schwab also weigh in on the fate of Mike McCarthy after the Dallas Cowboys’ embarrassing loss to the Philadelphia Eagles and the rest of the Sunday slate before giving their uncertain predictions for an awkward Monday night matchup between the Detroit Lions & San Francisco 49ers. (1:50) - Week 18 battle for home field advantage (11:00) - Green Bay Packers @ Minnesota Vikings (22:00) - Atlanta Falcons @ Washington Commanders (31:00) - Los Angeles Chargers @ New England Patriots (35:00) - Denver Broncos @ Cincinnati Bengals (39:00) - Arizona Cardinals @ Los Angeles Rams (40:50) - New York Jets @ Buffalo Bills (44:30) - Dallas Cowboys @ Philadelphia Eagles (47:50) - Las Vegas Raiders @ New Orleans Saints (52:00) - Indianapolis Colts @ New York Giants (57:20) - Tennessee Titans @ Jacksonville Jaguars (58:20) - Miami Dolphins @ Cleveland Browns (59:40) - Carolina Panthers @ Tampa Bay Buccaneers (1:02:50) - MNF preview
NEW ORLEANS — Raiders rookie tight end Brock Bowers didn’t set any statistical goals for his rookie season, he said, because he had “no clue what to expect, coming from college to the NFL.” Then he proceeded to break a 63-year-old record in his first 16 games as a pro — just one of three notable marks he set Sunday during the Las Vegas Raiders’ 25-10 victory over the New Orleans Saints on Sunday. Javascript is required for you to be able to read premium content. Please enable it in your browser settings.Embarking on an Adventure, Unveiling the Heroic Epic: Journey of Kings with Samsung Monitor and "The Lion King: Mufasa's Legend"
From a broader perspective, the increased focus on automotive finance underscores the importance of the industry in driving economic growth. The automotive sector plays a significant role in creating jobs, supporting ancillary industries, and contributing to overall economic development. By facilitating easier access to car loans, banks are not only supporting individual consumers but also fueling growth in a key sector of the economy.
TORONTO, Nov. 25, 2024 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) -- Quisitive Technology Solutions Inc. (“Quisitive” or the “Company”) (TSXV: QUIS, OTCQX: QUISF), a premier Microsoft Cloud and AI solutions provider, today reported financial results for the third quarter ended September 30, 2024. Management Commentary “Our Cloud business maintained stability as we experienced modest sequential growth and saw an expanding pipeline of AI-driven customer engagements,” said Quisitive CEO Mike Reinhart. “The hiring process of specialized staff from Microsoft’s investment in our Blackbelt Team has been completed and will enhance our ability to further establish a strong pipeline of customer opportunities. We have also developed new IP for our AI Innovation Center, designed for customers in the Azure environment to accelerate their AI use case testing and to facilitate successful custom AI deployments. Looking ahead to the new year, we remain committed to further investing in our sales engine in alignment with Microsoft, with early 2025 positioned as a key momentum-building phase to drive growth in the latter part of the year.” Third Quarter 2024 Financial Results The Company’s condensed consolidated interim financial statements for the three and nine months ended September 30, 2024 and related management’s discussion and analysis will be posted on the Company’s website and on the Company’s issuer profile on SEDAR+ at www.sedarplus.com on November 25, 2024 subject to completion of the interim review by the Company's external auditors. All figures are expressed in United States dollars unless otherwise stated. Financial highlights include: Revenue from continuing operations sequentially improved to $30.7 million compared to $29.6 million for the second quarter ended June 30, 2024. Results improved slightly when compared to $30.68 million for the third quarter ended September 30, 2023. Gross profit from continuing operations as a percentage of revenue sequentially improved to 42.9% compared to 42.1% for the second quarter ended June 30, 2024. Results remained steady and relatively unchanged when compared to 42.9% for the third quarter ended September 30, 2023. Gross profit from continuing operations sequentially improved to $13.2 million compared to $12.5 million for the second quarter ended June 30, 2024. Results remained steady when compared to $13.2 million for the third quarter ended September 30, 2023. Adjusted EBITDA from continuing operations sequentially improved to $4.2 million compared to $3.9 million for the second quarter ended June 30, 2024. Results decreased when compared to $4.9 million for the third quarter ended September 30, 2023. The Company’s total senior debt to Adjusted EBITDA ratio was approximately 1.9:1.0 on a pro forma basis at September 30, 2024. Third Quarter 2024 and Recent Operational Highlights Successfully completed the hiring process of specialized roles within Quisitive’s AI Blackbelt Team through Microsoft’s AI program investment. Development of AI Innovation Center, an IP platform for AI readiness designed for customers operating in the Azure environment. Sponsored Microsoft’s SMC Sales and Tech Summit event. Officially awarded 2024 Microsoft Analytics Partner of the Year at Microsoft Ignite. Fiscal Year 2024 Guidance Quisitive is providing the following guidance for fiscal year 2024: Conference Call Quisitive management will hold a conference call today (November 25, 2024) at 5:00 p.m. Eastern time (2:00 p.m. Pacific time) to discuss these results. Company CEO Mike Reinhart and CFO Scott Meriwether will host the call, followed by a question-and-answer period. Toll Free dial-in: 1-877-704-4453 International dial-in: 1-201-389-0920 Webcast Link: Here Please call the conference telephone number 10 minutes prior to the start time. An operator will register your name and organization. If you have any difficulty connecting with the conference call, please contact Gateway Group at 949-574-3860. A telephonic replay of the conference call will be available after 8:00 p.m. Eastern time today and will expire after Monday, December 9, 2024. Toll-free replay number: 1-844-512-2921 International replay number: 1-412-317-6671 Replay ID: 13750196 For additional information, please visit the Investor Relations section of Quisitive’s website at: https://quisitive.com/investor-relations/ . The following tables summarize results for the three and nine months ended September 30, 2024 and 2023: About Quisitive: Quisitive (TSXV: QUIS, OTCQX: QUISF) is a premier, global Microsoft partner leveraging the power of the Microsoft cloud platform and artificial intelligence, alongside custom and proprietary technologies, to drive transformative outcomes for its customers. The Company focuses on helping enterprises across industries leverage the Microsoft platform to adopt, innovate, and thrive in the era of AI. For more information, visit www.Quisitive.com and follow @BeQuisitive. Quisitive Investor Contact Matt Glover and John Yi Gateway Group QUIS@gateway-grp.com 949-574-3860 Tami Anders Chief of Staff tami.anders@quisitive.com 972.573.0995 Reconciliation of Non-GAAP Financial Measures - Adjusted EBITDA Financial Measures and Adjusted EBITDA There are measures included in this news release that do not have a standardized meaning under generally accepted accounting principles (GAAP) and therefore may not be comparable to similarly titled measures and metrics presented by other publicly traded companies. The Company includes these measures because it believes certain investors use these measures and metrics as a means of assessing financial performance. EBITDA (earnings before interest, taxes, depreciation and amortization is calculated as net earnings before finance costs (net of finance income), income tax expense, and depreciation and amortization of intangibles) is a non-GAAP financial measure that does not have any standardized meaning prescribed by IFRS and may not be comparable to similar measures presented by other companies. We prepare and release quarterly unaudited and annual audited financial statements prepared in accordance with IFRS. We also disclose and discuss certain non-GAAP financial information, used to evaluate our performance, in this and other earnings releases and investor conference calls as a complement to results provided in accordance with IFRS. We believe that current shareholders and potential investors in the Company use non-GAAP financial measures, such as Adjusted EBITDA, in making investment decisions about the Company and measuring our operational results. The term "Adjusted EBITDA" refers to a financial measure that we define as earnings before certain charges that management considers to be non-operating expenses and which consist of interest, taxes, depreciation, amortization, stock-based compensation (for which we include related fees and taxes), changes in fair value of derivatives, transaction and acquisition-related expenses, US payroll protection plan loan forgiveness, and earn-out settlement losses. Management considers these non-operating expenses to be outside the scope of Quisitive' ongoing operations and the related expenses are not used by management to measure operations. Accordingly, these expenses are excluded from Adjusted EBITDA, which we reference to both measure our operations and as a basis of comparison of our operations from period-to-period. Management believes that investors and financial analysts measure our business on the same basis, and we are providing the Adjusted EBITDA financial metric to assist in this evaluation and to provide a higher level of transparency into how we measure our own business. However, Adjusted EBITDA is a non-GAAP financial measure and may not be comparable to similarly titled measures reported by other companies. Adjusted EBITDA should not be construed as a substitute for net income determined in accordance with IFRS or other non-GAAP measures that may be used by other companies, such as EBITDA. The use of Adjusted EBITDA does have limitations as, some investors may consider these charges and expenses as a recurring part of operations rather than expenses that are not part of operations. Cautionary Note Regarding Forward Looking Information This news release contains certain “forward-looking information” and “forward-looking statements” (collectively, “forward-looking statements”) within the meaning of applicable Canadian securities legislation regarding Quisitive and its business. Any statement that involves discussions with respect to predictions, expectations, beliefs, plans, projections, objectives, assumptions, future events or performance (often but not always using phrases such as “expects”, or “does not expect”, “is expected”, “anticipates” or “does not anticipate”, “plans”, “budget”, “scheduled”, “forecasts”, “estimates”, “believes” or “intends” or variations of such words and phrases or stating that certain actions, events or results “may” or “could, “would”, “might” or “will” be taken to occur or be achieved) are not statements of historical fact and may be forward-looking statements. Forward-looking statements are necessarily based upon a number of estimates and assumptions that, while considered reasonable, are subject to known and unknown risks, uncertainties, and other factors which may cause the actual results and future events to differ materially from those expressed or implied by such forward-looking statements. These forward-looking statements include, but are not limited to, statements relating to: the future growth potential of the Company and its cloud solutions business and AI offerings; the financial outlook of the Company, including growth projections, capital allocation and cost savings; potential for growth and expectations regarding the Company’s ability to capitalize on the expanding opportunities emerging from AI advancements. These forward-looking statements are based on reasonable assumptions and estimates of management of the Company at the time such statements were made. Actual future results may differ materially as forward-looking statements involve known and unknown risks, uncertainties and other factors which may cause the actual results, performance or achievements of the Company to materially differ from any future results, performance or achievements expressed or implied by such forward-looking statements. Such factors, among other things, include: fluctuations in general macroeconomic conditions; fluctuations in securities markets; the ability to realize on cost saving measures; the Company’s limited operating history; future capital needs and uncertainty of additional financing; the competitive nature of the technology industry; unproven markets for the Company’s product offerings; lack of regulation and customer protection; the need for the Company to manage its future strategic plans; the effects of product development and need for continued technology change; protection of proprietary rights; network security risks; the ability of the Company to maintain properly working systems; foreign currency trading risks; use and storage of personal information and compliance with privacy laws; use of the Company’s services for improper or illegal purposes; global economic and financial market conditions; uninsurable risks; changes in project parameters as plans continue to be evaluated; and those factors described under the heading "Risks Factors" in the Company's annual information form dated May 23, 2023 available on SEDAR+ at www.sedarplus.ca. Although the forward-looking statements contained in this news release are based upon what management of the Company believes, or believed at the time, to be reasonable assumptions, the Company cannot assure shareholders that actual results will be consistent with such forward-looking statements, as there may be other factors that cause results not to be as anticipated, estimated or intended. Accordingly, readers should not place undue reliance on forward-looking statements and information. There can be no assurance that forward-looking information, or the material factors or assumptions used to develop such forward-looking information, will prove to be accurate. The Company does not undertake any obligations to release publicly any revisions for updating any voluntary forward-looking statements, except as required by applicable securities law. Neither the TSX Venture Exchange nor its Regulation Services provider (as that term is defined in the policies of the TSX Venture Exchange) accepts responsibility for the adequacy or accuracy of this release.One of the most anticipated aspects of "The Lord of the Rings: The Battle of Rohan" is the voice cast, which includes a mix of seasoned actors and rising stars. The talented performers lend their voices to iconic characters such as Aragorn, Gandalf, Legolas, and Eowyn, bringing depth and emotion to their roles. Fans of the original book series will no doubt be thrilled to hear these characters come to life in a new and exciting way.
In the latest news from the world of table tennis, the formidable pair of Wang Chuqin and Sun Yingsha continues to dominate the world rankings, securing their positions as number one in the mixed doubles category. Meanwhile, Lin Shidong and Wang Manyu have cemented their places as the second best in the world, showcasing the undeniable strength of the Chinese national team.As the world eagerly anticipates the arrival of Zhang Meng's baby, one thing is certain: her pregnancy journey is a testament to the power of love, kindness, and togetherness. In the face of adversity, she stands tall, her smile radiant, her heart full, her spirit unbreakable. Zhang Meng's pregnancy journey is not just about her; it is about the beauty of new beginnings, the joy of creating life, and the magic of love in its purest form. May her story continue to inspire and uplift us all, reminding us that with a little love and a lot of courage, anything is possible.PARADIGM CAPITAL MANAGEMENT LIVE WITH INDATAPrime Minister Narendra Modi yesterday said that Constitution is the guiding light of the nation and stated that it is a matter of great honour that the Indian Constitution is completing 75 years on 26th January next year. Addressing the nation in his Mann Ki Baat programme on Akashvani, Mr Modi said the Constitution has stood the test of time in every sense of the term. The Prime Minister noted that on the occasion of Constitution Day this year, many activities have commenced that will continue throughout the year. He mentioned that a special website constitution75.com has been created to connect citizens with the legacy of the Constitution. Prime Minister urged the listeners of Mann Ki Baat, children and youth to visit the website. People can read the Preamble of the Constitution and upload their video in the website. The website also offers the opportunity to read the Constitution in many different languages and ask questions pertaining to the Constitution. The Maha Kumbh is going to be held in Prayagraj from the 13th of January. Prime Minister highlighted that mammoth preparations are going on at the banks of Sangam in Prayagraj. He shared that he went to Prayagraj a few days ago and viewed the entire Kumbh area from a helicopter. Prime Minister exuded pride that the speciality of Maha Kumbh is not only in its vastness, but also in its diversity. He underscored that crores of people congregate for this event, including lakhs of saints, hundreds of sects and many Akharas. He said no discrimination is done and such unity in diversity is not witnessed anywhere else in the world. He stated that Kumbh is also the Maha Kumbh of unity. Mr. Modi urged people to embrace the spirit of unity while participating in the Maha Kumbh. He also called upon them to pledge to annihilate the feelings of division and hatred in the society. Giving the slogan of Mahakumbh Ka Sandesh, Ek Ho Poora Desh, he expressed hope for an undivided society, just like the uninterrupted flow of the Ganga. The Prime Minister highlighted that this time in Prayagraj, devotees from the country and the world will also be witness to the digital Maha Kumbh. With the help of digital navigation, people will be able to reach different ghats, temples, and akharas of sadhus. The same navigation system will also help people reach parking spaces. Mr Modi said that for the first time, an AI chatbot will be used in the Kumbh event. All kinds of information related to Kumbh will be available in 11 Indian languages through the AI chatbot. Prime Minister also said that the entire Fair area is being covered with AI-powered cameras. If someone gets separated from one’s kith and kin during the Kumbh, these cameras will help in finding them. Devotees will also get the facility of a digital lost and found center. They will also be provided information about government-approved tour packages, accommodation and homestay on their mobile phones. Prime Minister asked people to avail these facilities and upload their selfie with #EktaKaMahakumbh. Touching the topic of animation, Mr Modi was pleased to note that Krish, Trish and Baltiboy, KTB, is a superhit animation series among children. Prime Minister elaborated that these three animation characters tell people about the heroes and bravehearts associated with Indian freedom struggle who are not discussed much. Recently, its second season was launched at the International Film Festival of India in Goa. Mr Modi added that this series is broadcast not only in many Indian languages but also in foreign languages. It can be watched on Doordarshan as well as other OTT platforms. Prime Minister Modi said that the popularity of Indian animation films, regular films, and TV serials shows how much potential India’s creative industry has. He noted that this industry is not only contributing to the country’s progress but also taking the economy to new heights. He congratulated the film and entertainment industry because it has strengthened the sentiment of ‘Ek Bharat – Shreshtha Bharat’. In 2024, the nation is celebrating the 100th birth anniversary of many great personalities of the film world. Prime Minister emphasised that these personalities have accorded recognition to Indian cinema at the world level. He said that Raj Kapoor introduced the world to the soft power of India through films, while Mohammed Rafi’s voice had that magic which touched every heart. Mr Modi said Akkineni Nageswara Rao has taken Telugu cinema to new heights and Tapan Sinha’s films gave a new vision to the society. He added that their films always carried the message of social consciousness and national unity, and these personalities are an inspiration for the entire film industry. Prime Minister was pleased to share that for the first time, the World Audio Visual Entertainment Summit, WAVES Summit, is going to be organised in India next year. He said that during the WAVES summit, giants from the media and entertainment industry and people from the creative world will come to India. He said this summit is an important step towards making India a hub of global content creation. He expressed pride that young creators of the country are joining with full enthusiasm in the preparations for this summit. He stated that as India is moving towards a 5 trillion dollar economy, the creator economy is bringing in new energy. He urged the entire entertainment and creative industry of India to be a part of the WAVES summit. In this edition of Mann Ki Baat, Mr Modi highlighted two (adsbygoogle = window.adsbygoogle || []).push({}); big achievements of India in the field of health. He said the first achievement has been in the fight against malaria. Prime Minister expressed satisfaction that the World Health Organization report mentions that there has been an 80 percent reduction in India in the number of malaria cases and deaths due to it between 2015 & 2023. He said that this is no mean achievement. He termed it heartening that this success has been achieved through everyone’s participation. Mr Modi mentioned that in the tea gardens of Jorhat in Assam, malaria used to be a major cause of concern for people until four years ago. But when the tea garden dwellers united to eradicate it, they started getting success to a great extent. Prime Minister also praised Kurukshetra district of Haryana for presenting a very good model for controlling malaria. In Kurukshetra, public participation for monitoring Malaria has been quite successful and street plays and radio helped in spreading awareness towards reducing the breeding of mosquitoes. The Prime Minister also shared a study of the world-renowned Medical Journal Lancet, which found that the chances of starting cancer treatment on time in India have increased a lot. He elaborated that timely treatment means starting the treatment of a cancer patient within 30 days and the ‘Ayushman Bharat Yojana’ has played a big role in this. Because of this scheme, 90 percent of cancer patients have been able to start their treatment on time. Mr Modi said the Ayushman Bharat Yojana has reduced the financial problems in cancer treatment to a great extent. He said that people have become more aware than ever before about timely treatment of cancer. He stressed that there is only one mantra to fight cancer – Awareness, Action and Assurance. Prime Minister noted that in this winter season, several activities related to sports and fitness are being organised across the country. He expressed happines that people are making fitness a part of their daily routine. He said that enthusiasm for sports can be seen everywhere, from Skiing in Kashmir to kite flying in Gujarat. He also took note of campaigns like #SundayOnCycle and #CyclingTuesday which promote cycling. Mr Modi shared that a unique Olympic has started in Bastar called Bastar Olympics. He expressed happiness that this is taking place in the region which was once a witness to Maoist violence. The mascot of the Bastar Olympics is – ‘Wild Water Buffalo’ and ‘Hill Myna’. Prime Minister said this reflects the rich culture of Bastar. In the first edition of Bastar Olympics, one lakh 65 thousand players from 7 districts participated. Mr Modi said that the youth of Bastar displayed their talent in every sport, be it Athletics, Archery, Badminton, Football, Hockey, Weightlifting, Karate, Kabaddi, Kho-Kho and Volleyball. Kari Kashyap, who won a silver medal in archery, shared that Bastar Olympics has given them an opportunity to move ahead in life. Payal Kawasi from Sukma, who won a gold medal in Javelin Throw, said that no goal is impossible with discipline and hard work. Prime Minister said the story of Punem Sanna from Dornapal in Sukma is an inspiring tale of New India. Punem, who was once under Naxal influence, is today winning medals by racing on a wheelchair. Archer Ranju Sori from Kondagaon has been chosen as the ‘Bastar youth icon’. She believes that Bastar Olympics is giving the youth from remote areas an opportunity to reach the national stage. Prime Minister hailed the Bastar Olympics as a platform where development and sports are merging together. He urged listeners to encourage such sports events in their areas and share stories of sports talents with #KhelegaBharat – JeetegaBharat. Prime Minister Modi mentioned that the radiance of Indian culture is spreading to every nook and corner of the world today. He spoke about students from Egypt who have made paintings of Indian Gods and Goddesses, dance forms and great personalities. A painting of Taj Mahal has been made by a 13 year old Divyang girl. Mr Modi said that a few weeks ago, around 23 thousand students from Egypt participated in a painting competition, depicting Indian culture and historical relations between the two countries. He appreciated all the youth who participated in this competition. Prime Minister spoke about the Ayurveda Consultation being offered by Erica Huber at the Indian Embassy in Paraguay. He said that a large number of local people are reaching out to her to get Ayurveda based advice. Prime Minister also expressed pride that a Tamil Teaching Programme was started in Fiji with the support of the Indian Government. He added that this is the first time in the last 80 years that trained Tamil teachers are teaching the language in Fiji. Speaking about success stories, Mr Modi mentioned the vegetable revolution in Kalahandi, Odisha. He said the Golamunda block of Kalahandi has become a vegetable hub. A small group of 10 farmers established a Farmers Producer Organisation, FPO, called ‘Kisan Utpad Sangh’ and started using modern technology in farming. Today, their FPO is doing business worth crores, and more than 200 farmers are associated with this FPO, including 45 women farmers. Prime Minister Modi said that 2025 is knocking at the door, and extended best wishes to everyone. He exuded pride that India will touch new heights in the coming year. He urged listeners to keep sharing the unique efforts around them with #Mannkibaat.