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Ousted Syrian leader Assad flees to Moscow after fall of Damascus, Russian state media sayAN POST have given a major update following Storm Darragh disruption as deadline for Xmas delivery closes in. Storm Darragh has caused major disruption to An Post services over the past few days. Ireland's national postal service has now confirmed in a statement that they are gradually returning to normal today. Deliveries are underway across many parts of the country, though some areas affected by the storm will see staff delivering as soon as it is safe to do so. An Post said the situation is an important reminder to customers to post their holiday cards and parcels early, especially when sending to distant destinations. They said: "An Post is making deliveries in many parts of the country today, following yesterday’s storm disruption to national and local services. "In badly impacted areas, local staff will deliver as soon as it’s safe to do so. "Weather disruption is a reminder to get posting early, particular to far flung destinations." If you're planning to send Christmas cards to the United States, the last recommended posting date is Tuesday, December 10 to ensure timely delivery. For parcels being sent across Europe , An Post advises that they should be posted by Thursday, December 12. With the busy Christmas period ahead, An Post expects to deliver up to 3 million parcels this week alone. Following the restoration of power in affected areas by the ESB , all post offices are expected to open for business tomorrow. The postal service also said that Santa has asked children across Ireland to post their letters to him as soon as possible, as it will allow time for the postal elves to send replies from the North Pole. To ensure a quick reply, children should be sure to include their full name and address in their letters. As the Christmas season approaches, the postal service said they are working hard to ensure all holiday mail reaches its destination on time despite any weather challenges. Meanwhile over 20,000 homes still without power as thousands more to go without water following Storm Darragh chaos. Power restoration could take days to come back for thousands of households. ESB Networks announced that its teams and partner contractors will resume work today to restore power to thousands of customers affected by Storm Darragh. The storm caused widespread and major damage to the electricity network, affecting power lines and infrastructure across the country. The number of customers without power has decreased from a peak of 395,000 yesterday, but some areas may remain without electricity for several days due to the extent of the damage. ESB Networks warned that restoration times will vary depending on the severity of the damage in each location. The company will continue to update customers on estimated restoration times, and they can check www.PowerCheck.iefor real-time information.

Sagittarius – (22nd November to 21st December) Daily Horoscope Prediction says, Explore Opportunities with Enthusiasm and Optimism Today offers you a chance to tap into your adventurous spirit. Stay open-minded and optimistic, as new opportunities can enhance both your personal and professional life. Sagittarius, today is filled with promising possibilities. Your natural curiosity and desire for adventure may lead you to discover something exciting. Keep a positive attitude and maintain flexibility as unexpected opportunities may come your way. Balancing optimism with pragmatism will help you make the most of the day. Remember to keep your feet on the ground while letting your heart soar. Sagittarius Love Horoscope Today In your love life, openness and communication will play a key role today. Whether single or in a relationship, it's a perfect time to express your feelings honestly. If you're single, meeting someone new is possible, so keep an eye out for unexpected encounters. Those in relationships should take time to strengthen their connection with a heartfelt conversation or a shared experience. Being genuine and attentive will enhance your romantic bonds. Sagittarius Career Horoscope Today At work, today is ideal for exploring new projects and ideas. Your enthusiasm can inspire colleagues, so don't hesitate to share your insights. Be mindful of balancing your eagerness with patience, as hasty decisions might lead to oversight. It's also a good day to network and build professional relationships. Staying organized and focusing on collaboration can lead to valuable opportunities for career growth and development. Sagittarius Money Horoscope Today Financially, today suggests a careful assessment of your current situation. While you're naturally inclined to take risks, it's wise to review your budget before making any major financial decisions. Look for creative ways to increase your income, but ensure you consider all factors before proceeding. Seek advice if needed, and maintain a balance between spending and saving. Thoughtful planning can lead to stability and future prosperity. Sagittarius Health Horoscope Today Health-wise, it's an opportune day to focus on your well-being. Prioritize activities that boost your physical and mental health. Consider incorporating a new form of exercise or meditation into your routine. Pay attention to your body's signals and ensure you're getting enough rest and nutrition. Social interactions can also contribute to your emotional health, so spend time with loved ones. Overall, a balanced approach will enhance your vitality today. Sagittarius Sign Attributes Strength: Wise, Practical, Audacious, Beautiful, Lively, Energetic, Lovely, Optimistic Weakness: Forgetful, Careless, Irritating Symbol: Archer Element: Fire Body Part: Thighs & Liver Sign Ruler: Jupiter Lucky Day: Thursday Lucky Color: Light Blue Lucky Number: 6 Lucky Stone: Yellow Sapphire Sagittarius Sign Compatibility Chart Natural affinity: Aries, Leo, Libra, Aquarius Good compatibility: Gemini, Sagittarius Fair compatibility: Taurus, Cancer, Scorpio, Capricorn Less compatibility: Virgo, Pisces By: Dr. J. N. Pandey Vedic Astrology & Vastu Expert Website: www.astrologerjnpandey.com E-mail: djnpandey@gmail.com Phone: 91-9811107060 (WhatsApp Only)LISBON, Portugal (AP) — The goals are flying in again for Arsenal — and it just happens to coincide with the return from injury of Martin Odegaard. Make that eight goals in two games since the international break for Arsenal after its 5-1 hammering of Sporting Lisbon in the Champions League on Tuesday, tying the English team’s heaviest ever away win in the competition. Odegaard is back in Arsenal’s team after missing two months with an ankle injury . In that time, Mikel Arteta’s attack stuttered, with a 2-0 loss to Bournemouth and a 1-0 defeat at Newcastle dropping the Gunners well off the pace in the Premier League. There was also a 0-0 draw at Atalanta in the Champions League as well as a 1-0 loss to Inter Milan last month, when Odegaard made his comeback from injury as an 89th-minute substitute. Since then, Arsenal hasn’t lost and the goals have returned. After a 3-0 win over Nottingham Forest on Saturday came the cruise in Lisbon — and Odegaard was at the heart of everything as Sporting’s unbeaten start to the season came to an end. “He’s an unbelievable player,” Arsenal winger Bukayo Saka said of Odegaard. “The day he returned, there was a big smile on my face. You can see the chemistry we have. I hope he stays fit for the rest of the season.” Odegaard was involved in the build-up to Arsenal’s first two goals against Sporting — scored by Gabriel Martinelli and Kai Havertz — and was fouled to win the penalty converted by Saka in the 65th to restore Arsenal’s three-goal lead at 4-1. Odegaard was seen flexing his leg after that but continued untroubled and was substituted in the 78th minute. The last thing Arteta would want now is another injury to Odegaard as Arsenal attempts to reel in first-place Liverpool in the Premier League. Liverpool is already nine points ahead of fourth-place Arsenal after 12 games. AP soccer: https://apnews.com/hub/soccer

The governor of Jigawa State, Umar Namadi, has faced two tragic losses in his family this week. His eldest son, Abdulwahab, died in a car accident on Thursday, just one day after the governor’s mother, Maryam Namadi, passed away from an illness. Abdulwahab was driving back to Dutse with his friends from Kafin Hausa when his car lost control and flipped over. His friends who were in the car survived but were hurt and are now getting medical care at Dutse General Hospital. The governor’s spokesperson, Hamisu Gumel, officially announced the news, saying: “With a heavy heart, Governor Umar Namadi announces the passing of his beloved son, Abdulwahab Umar Namadi. Read Also: Former Indian Prime Minister Manmohan Singh dies at 92 The 24-year-old departed this world on Thursday, December 26, 2024, due to a ghastly motor accident along the Dutse-Kafin-Hausa Road. The burial rites are currently underway in Kafin Hausa town in accordance with Islamic traditions.” Abdulwahab is survived by his parents – Governor Namadi and his wife – and his brothers and sisters. The statement also noted, “This tragic incident comes just a day after the governor mourned the passing of his mother, Hajia Maryam Namadi.” People across Jigawa State have been deeply affected by these losses and are sharing their sympathy with the governor’s family.( MENAFN - GlobeNewsWire - Nasdaq) ROTTERDAM, Netherlands, Dec. 23, 2024 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) -- Nearfield Instruments, a pioneer in advanced process control metrology solutions, is proud to announce that it has received repeat purchase orders for its flagship QUADRA High-Throughput Process Control Metrology System . This follow-up order highlights Nearfield Instruments' increasing market traction and its success in penetrating high-volume manufacturing operations. The QUADRA system offers cutting-edge capabilities for in-line process control by Nearfield's high-throughput AFM metrology technologies that deliver highly accurate, non-destructive 3D measurements of critical semiconductor parameters. By providing real-time feedback on critical device structures, the system provides good correlation to device yield and enables manufacturers to maintain high yields and optimal performance in their production lines. QUADRA's exceptional throughput allows manufacturers to quickly and accurately analyze large numbers of devices without compromising measurement precision, ensuring both efficiency and quality in the production process. This follow-on order from a leading semiconductor manufacturer reflects the confidence that global manufacturers are placing in the QUADRA platform as they scale to meet the demands of next-generation technologies. “This repeat order is a clear validation of the QUADRA system's performance, both in terms of capability and expected reliability and customer support and responsiveness and its critical role in enabling high-volume manufacturing for cutting-edge semiconductor processes,” said Hamed Sadeghian, CEO of Nearfield Instruments .“It demonstrates not only the system's technical excellence but also the trust our customers place in us to support their production goals. With this new repeat orders, our order book for 2025 is fully filled and underlines Nearfield Instruments' dedication to providing innovative solutions that help manufacturers achieve new heights of efficiency and yield.” The continued adoption of QUADRA systems by leading manufacturers further strengthens Nearfield Instruments' position as a driving force in advanced process control metrology for mass production. About Nearfield Instruments Nearfield Instruments is bridging the semiconductor industry's metrology and inspection challenges with in-line, non-destructive process control nanometrology solutions for advanced 3D memory and logic devices. Their groundbreaking technology combines high-resolution with high-throughput, essential for the production of advanced semiconductor nodes. Nearfield is headquartered in Rotterdam with offices in Eindhoven, The Netherlands and Pyeongtaek, South Korea. For more information, visit Media Contact Roland van Vliet Chief Partnership Officer Nearfield Instruments B.V. e-mail: ... Telephone: +31620369741 MENAFN22122024004107003653ID1109021922 Legal Disclaimer: MENAFN provides the information “as is” without warranty of any kind. We do not accept any responsibility or liability for the accuracy, content, images, videos, licenses, completeness, legality, or reliability of the information contained in this article. If you have any complaints or copyright issues related to this article, kindly contact the provider above.

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NEW YORK (AP) — Walmart's sweeping rollback of its diversity policies is the strongest indication yet of a profound shift taking hold at U.S. companies that are revaluating the legal and political risks associated with bold programs to bolster historically underrepresented groups in business. The changes announced by the world's biggest retailer followed a string of legal victories by conservative groups that have filed an onslaught of lawsuits challenging corporate and federal programs aimed at elevating minority and women-owned businesses and employees. The risk associated with some of programs crystalized with the election of former President Donald Trump, whose administration is certain to make dismantling diversity, equity and inclusion programs a priority. Trump's incoming deputy chief of policy will be his former adviser Stephen Miller , who leads a group called America First Legal that has aggressively challenged corporate DEI policies. “There has been a lot of reassessment of risk looking at programs that could be deemed to constitute reverse discrimination,” said Allan Schweyer, principal researcher the Human Capital Center at the Conference Board. “This is another domino to fall and it is a rather large domino,” he added. Among other changes, Walmart said it will no longer give priority treatment to suppliers owned by women or minorities. The company also will not renew a five-year commitment for a racial equity center set up in 2020 after the police killing of George Floyd. And it pulled out of a prominent gay rights index . Schweyer said the biggest trigger for companies making such changes is simply a reassessment of their legal risk exposure, which began after U.S. Supreme Court’s ruling in June 2023 that ended affirmative action in college admissions. Since then, conservative groups using similar arguments have secured court victories against various diversity programs, especially those that steer contracts to minority or women-owned businesses. Most recently, the conservative Wisconsin Institute for Law & Liberty won a victory in a case against the U.S. Department of Transportation over its use of a program that gives priority to minority-owned businesses when it awards contracts. Companies are seeing a big legal risk in continuing with DEI efforts, said Dan Lennington, a deputy counsel at the institute. His organization says it has identified more than 60 programs in the federal government that it considers discriminatory, he said. “We have a legal landscape within the entire federal government, all three branches -- the U.S. Supreme Court, the Congress and the President -- are all now firmly pointed in the direction towards equality of individuals and individualized treatment of all Americans, instead of diversity, equity and inclusion treating people as members of racial groups,” Lennington said. The Trump administration is also likely to take direct aim at DEI initiatives through executive orders and other policies that affect private companies, especially federal contractors. “The impact of the election on DEI policies is huge. It can’t be overstated,” said Jason Schwartz, co-chair of the Labor & Employment Practice Group at law firm Gibson Dunn. With Miller returning to the White House, rolling back DEI initiatives is likely to be a priority, Schwartz said. “Companies are trying to strike the right balance to make clear they’ve got an inclusive workplace where everyone is welcome, and they want to get the best talent, while at the same time trying not to alienate various parts of their employees and customer base who might feel one way or the other. It’s a virtually impossible dilemma,” Schwartz said. A recent survey by Pew Research Center showed that workers are divided on the merits of DEI policies. While still broadly popular, the share of workers who said focusing on workplace diversity was mostly a good thing fell to 52% in the November survey, compared to 56% in a similar survey in February 2023. Rachel Minkin, a research associated at Pew called it a small but significant shift in short amount of time. There will be more companies pulling back from their DEI policies, but it likely won’t be a retreat across the board, said David Glasgow, executive director of the Meltzer Center for Diversity, Inclusion and Belonging at New York University. “There are vastly more companies that are sticking with DEI," Glasgow said. "The only reason you don’t hear about it is most of them are doing it by stealth. They’re putting their heads down and doing DEI work and hoping not to attract attention.” Glasgow advises organizations to stick to their own core values, because attitudes toward the topic can change quickly in the span of four years. “It’s going to leave them looking a little bit weak if there’s a kind of flip-flopping, depending on whichever direction the political winds are blowing,” he said. One reason DEI programs exist is because without those programs, companies may be vulnerable to lawsuits for traditional discrimination. “Really think carefully about the risks in all directions on this topic,” Glasgow said. Walmart confirmed will no longer consider race and gender as a litmus test to improve diversity when it offers supplier contracts. Last fiscal year, Walmart said it spent more than $13 billion on minority, women or veteran-owned good and service suppliers. It was unclear how its relationships with such business would change going forward. Organizations that that have partnered with Walmart on its diversity initiatives offered a cautious response. The Women’s Business Enterprise National Council, a non-profit that last year named Walmart one of America's top corporation for women-owned enterprises, said it was still evaluating the impact of Walmart's announcement. Pamela Prince-Eason, the president and CEO of the organization, said she hoped Walmart's need to cater to its diverse customer base will continue to drive contracts to women-owned suppliers even if the company no longer has explicit dollar goals. “I suspect Walmart will continue to have one of the most inclusive supply chains in the World,” Prince-Eason wrote. “Any retailer's ability to serve the communities they operate in will continue to value understanding their customers, (many of which are women), in order to better provide products and services desired and no one understands customers better than Walmart." Walmart's announcement came after the company spoke directly with conservative political commentator and activist Robby Starbuck, who has been going after corporate DEI policies, calling out individual companies on the social media platform X. Several of those companies have subsequently announced that they are pulling back their initiatives, including Ford , Harley-Davidson, Lowe’s and Tractor Supply . Walmart confirmed to The Associated Press that it will better monitor its third-party marketplace items to make sure they don’t feature sexual and transgender products aimed at minors. The company also will stop participating in the Human Rights Campaign’s annual benchmark index that measures workplace inclusion for LGBTQ+ employees. A Walmart spokesperson added that some of the changes were already in progress and not as a result of conversations that it had with Starbuck. RaShawn “Shawnie” Hawkins, senior director of the HRC Foundation’s Workplace Equality Program, said companies that “abandon” their commitments workplace inclusion policies “are shirking their responsibility to their employees, consumers, and shareholders.” He said the buying power of LGBTQ customers is powerful and noted that the index will have “record participation” of more than 1,400 companies in 2025." Alexandra Olson And Cathy Bussewitz, The Associated Press

Jurors end 1st day of deliberations without a verdict in the YSL gang and racketeering trial

US President Joe Biden on Sunday said deposed Syrian leader Bashar al-Assad should be "held accountable" but called the nation's political upheaval a "historic opportunity" for Syrians to rebuild their country. In the first full US reaction to Assad's overthrow by an Islamist-led coalition of rebel factions, Biden also warned that Washington will "remain vigilant" against the emergence of terrorist groups, announcing that US forces had just conducted fresh strikes against militants from the Islamic State organization. "The fall of the regime is a fundamental act of justice," Biden said, speaking from the White House. "It's a moment of historic opportunity for the long-suffering people of Syria." Asked by reporters what should happen to the deposed president, who reportedly has fled to Moscow, Biden said that "Assad should be held accountable." Biden -- set to step down in January and make way for Republican Donald Trump's return to power -- said Washington will assist Syrians in rebuilding. "We will engage with all Syrian groups, including within the process led by the United Nations, to establish a transition away from the Assad regime toward independent, sovereign" Syria "with a new constitution," he said. However, Biden cautioned that hardline Islamist groups within the victorious rebel alliance will be under scrutiny. "Some of the rebel groups that took down Assad have their own grim record of terrorism and human right abuses," Biden said. The United States had "taken note" of recent statements by rebels suggesting they had since moderated, he said, but cautioned: "We will assess not just their words, but their actions." Biden said Washington is "clear eyed" that the Islamic State extremist group, often known as ISIS, "will try to take advantage of any vacuum to reestablish" itself in Syria. "We will not let that happen," he said, adding that on Sunday alone, US forces had conducted strikes against ISIS inside Syria. The US military said the strikes were conducted by warplanes against Islamic State operatives and camps. Strikes were carried out against "over 75 targets using multiple US Air Force assets, including B-52s, F-15s, and A-10s," the US Central Command said on social media. Earlier, Biden met with his national security team at the White House to discuss the crisis. Assad's reported departure comes less than two weeks after the Islamist Hayat Tahrir al-Sham (HTS) group challenged more than five decades of Assad family rule with a lightning rebel offensive that broke long-frozen frontlines in Syria's civil war. They announced Sunday they had taken the capital Damascus and that Assad had fled, prompting celebrations nationwide and a ransacking of Assad's luxurious home. A Kremlin source told Russian news agencies that the deposed leader was now in Moscow, along with his family. The US military has around 900 troops in Syria and 2,500 in Iraq as part of the international coalition established in 2014 to help combat the Islamic State jihadist group. It has regularly struck targets in the country including those linked to Iranian-backed militias. Tehran was a major backer of Assad's government. Biden also confirmed US authorities believe the American journalist Austin Tice, who was abducted in Syria in 2012, still lives. "We believe he's alive," Biden said, but the US has yet "to identify where he is." bur-sms/mlmFort Worth cold case families feel ‘forgotten' as small police unit juggles 1,000 cases

Trump vows to pursue executions after Biden commutes most of federal death rowGulf Times reporter receives ‘Most Outstanding Kapampangan Award 2024’

Looking at the threat of drone intrusions in the border areas of the country, the central government is working to establish a comprehensive anti-drone unit on the border. Union Home Minister Amit Shah stated this at the 60th Raising Day Parade of the Border Security Force (BSF) in Jodhpur, Rajasthan on Sunday. Shah said that the problem of drones is set to become more significant in the coming days. He mentioned that, recognizing this challenge, a laser-equipped anti-drone gun mount system has been developed through a 'Whole of Government Approach' involving all border security forces guarding the nation’s borders, the Ministry of Defense, DRDO, and various research departments of the Government of India. आज जोधपुर, राजस्थान में सीमा सुरक्षा बल के 60वें स्थापना दिवस परेड समारोह में वीर जवानों से संवाद किया। देश की सीमाओं की सुरक्षा और अंतरराष्ट्रीय अपराधों को रोकने के लिए कटिबद्ध सीमा सुरक्षा बल के जवान रेगिस्तानों से लेकर दुर्गम जंगलों और बर्फीले पहाड़ों पर भी राष्ट्ररक्षा के... pic.twitter.com/ykwH0FJTRp '55% of drone intrusions along the international border with Punjab have been intercepted and neutralized, a significant improvement from around 3% earlier. Within a few years, a comprehensive anti-drone unit will be established to protect the country from threats posed by drones,' said Shah. Elaborating the initiatives made to strengthen the border security, Shah said that the BSF has established the country’s first National Coastal Police Academy in Okha, which trains state police and border guarding forces deployed to secure maritime boundaries. Additionally, the Modi government has introduced a comprehensive Integrated Border Management System (CIBMS) for monitoring sensitive areas along the international border. He mentioned that the CIBMS has been implemented as a pilot project in Dhubri, and the initial results have been very encouraging. After some improvements, this system will be applied across the borders with Pakistan and Bangladesh. He also highlighted that efforts have been made to strengthen border fencing, construct roads on the Indian side of the border, and undertake several other infrastructure projects.Mentioning the border security policy, Shah said that for many years, our border security policy lacked clarity. An integrated approach to border management and the “One Border, One Force” policy was introduced during the Atal Bihari Vajpayee government Which became even more defined after Modi became Prime Minister. "Steps have been taken to develop robust infrastructure in border areas, ensure 100% implementation of welfare schemes in villages, and establish excellent connectivity through rail, road, waterways, and technology in the country's first villages along the borders,' said Shah.Highlighting the contribution of BSF to the security of the borders of the country, Shah said 'contribution of the BSF personnel will be written in Golder words. Fo over six decades, the BSF has strengthened the nation’s first line of defence through courage, valour, and sacrifice. BSF has faced all challenges at the borders and empowered the country’s first line of security,'Unveiling of Patel statue Amit Shah unveiled an 11-foot tall statue of Sardar Vallabhbhai Patel in Jodhpur as well. In his address Shah said that Sardar Patel is the personality to whom both history and the country did not do justice. नाम और प्रसिद्धि की चिंता किये बिना बीमारी की अवस्था में भी देश के सामने खड़ी कठिन से कठिन विपदाओं से देश को मुक्त करने वाले सरदार साहब के कारण ही आज हम भारतीय संघ के रूप में खड़े हैं। pic.twitter.com/I26dP4izXI 'The virtues, sacrifices, hard work, and foresight of a great man like Sardar Patel are benefiting the country today, but he did not receive the proper recognition and respect earlier. For decades, a party steeped in devotion to one family never even built a memorial of Sardar Patel. Such a great personality was overlooked due to the dominance of one family and the party’s vindictive approach, fueled by internal disagreements. Prime Minister Narendra Modi honored Sardar Patel by constructing the world’s tallest Statue of Unity at Kevadia in Gujarat,' said ShahNEW YORK (AP) — U.S. stocks climbed after market superstar Nvidia and another round of companies said they’re making even fatter profits than expected. The S&P 500 pulled 0.5% higher Thursday after flipping between modest gains and losses several times in the morning. The Dow Jones Industrial Average jumped 1.1%, and the Nasdaq composite edged up less than 0.1%. Banks, smaller companies and other areas of the stock market that tend to do best when the economy is strong helped lead the way, while bitcoin briefly broke above $99,000. Crude oil, meanwhile, continued to rise. Treasury yields edged higher in the bond market. THIS IS A BREAKING NEWS UPDATE. AP’s earlier story follows below. Javascript is required for you to be able to read premium content. Please enable it in your browser settings.

Yankees star Aaron Judge wins his second AL MVP award in three seasonsNEW YORK (AP) — Walmart's sweeping rollback of its diversity policies is the strongest indication yet of a profound shift taking hold at U.S. companies that are revaluating the legal and political risks associated with bold programs to bolster historically underrepresented groups in business. The followed a string of legal victories by conservative groups that have filed an onslaught of lawsuits challenging corporate and federal programs aimed at elevating minority and women-owned businesses and employees. The risk associated with some of programs crystalized with the election of former President Donald Trump, whose administration is certain to make dismantling diversity, equity and inclusion programs a priority. Trump's incoming deputy chief of policy will be his former adviser , who leads a group called America First Legal that has aggressively challenged corporate DEI policies. “There has been a lot of reassessment of risk looking at programs that could be deemed to constitute reverse discrimination,” said Allan Schweyer, principal researcher the Human Capital Center at the Conference Board. “This is another domino to fall and it is a rather large domino,” he added. Among other changes, Walmart said it will no longer give priority treatment to suppliers owned by women or minorities. The company also will not renew a five-year commitment for a racial equity center set up in 2020 after the police killing of George Floyd. And it pulled out of a . Schweyer said the biggest trigger for companies making such changes is simply a reassessment of their legal risk exposure, which began after that ended affirmative action in college admissions. Since then, conservative groups using similar arguments have secured court victories against various diversity programs, especially those that steer contracts to minority or women-owned businesses. Most recently, the conservative Wisconsin Institute for Law & Liberty won a victory in a case against the U.S. Department of Transportation over its use of a program that gives priority to minority-owned businesses when it awards contracts. Companies are seeing a big legal risk in continuing with DEI efforts, said Dan Lennington, a deputy counsel at the institute. His organization says it has identified more than 60 programs in the federal government that it considers discriminatory, he said. “We have a legal landscape within the entire federal government, all three branches -- the U.S. Supreme Court, the Congress and the President -- are all now firmly pointed in the direction towards equality of individuals and individualized treatment of all Americans, instead of diversity, equity and inclusion treating people as members of racial groups,” Lennington said. The Trump administration is also likely to take direct aim at DEI initiatives through executive orders and other policies that affect private companies, especially federal contractors. “The impact of the election on DEI policies is huge. It can’t be overstated,” said Jason Schwartz, co-chair of the Labor & Employment Practice Group at law firm Gibson Dunn. With Miller returning to the White House, rolling back DEI initiatives is likely to be a priority, Schwartz said. “Companies are trying to strike the right balance to make clear they’ve got an inclusive workplace where everyone is welcome, and they want to get the best talent, while at the same time trying not to alienate various parts of their employees and customer base who might feel one way or the other. It’s a virtually impossible dilemma,” Schwartz said. A recent survey by Pew Research Center showed that workers are divided on the merits of DEI policies. While still broadly popular, the share of workers who said focusing on workplace diversity was mostly a good thing fell to 52% in the November survey, compared to 56% in a similar survey in February 2023. Rachel Minkin, a research associated at Pew called it a small but significant shift in short amount of time. There will be more companies pulling back from their DEI policies, but it likely won’t be a retreat across the board, said David Glasgow, executive director of the Meltzer Center for Diversity, Inclusion and Belonging at New York University. “There are vastly more companies that are sticking with DEI," Glasgow said. "The only reason you don’t hear about it is most of them are doing it by stealth. They’re putting their heads down and doing DEI work and hoping not to attract attention.” Glasgow advises organizations to stick to their own core values, because attitudes toward the topic can change quickly in the span of four years. “It’s going to leave them looking a little bit weak if there’s a kind of flip-flopping, depending on whichever direction the political winds are blowing,” he said. One reason DEI programs exist is because without those programs, companies may be vulnerable to lawsuits for traditional discrimination. “Really think carefully about the risks in all directions on this topic,” Glasgow said. Walmart confirmed will no longer consider race and gender as a litmus test to improve diversity when it offers supplier contracts. Last fiscal year, Walmart said it spent more than $13 billion on minority, women or veteran-owned good and service suppliers. It was unclear how its relationships with such business would change going forward. Organizations that that have partnered with Walmart on its diversity initiatives offered a cautious response. The Women’s Business Enterprise National Council, a non-profit that last year named Walmart one of America's top corporation for women-owned enterprises, said it was still evaluating the impact of Walmart's announcement. Pamela Prince-Eason, the president and CEO of the organization, said she hoped Walmart's need to cater to its diverse customer base will continue to drive contracts to women-owned suppliers even if the company no longer has explicit dollar goals. “I suspect Walmart will continue to have one of the most inclusive supply chains in the World,” Prince-Eason wrote. “Any retailer's ability to serve the communities they operate in will continue to value understanding their customers, (many of which are women), in order to better provide products and services desired and no one understands customers better than Walmart." Walmart's announcement came after the company spoke directly with conservative political commentator and activist Robby Starbuck, who has been going after corporate DEI policies, calling out individual companies on the social media platform X. Several of those companies have subsequently announced that they are pulling back their initiatives, including , Harley-Davidson, and . Walmart confirmed to The Associated Press that it will better monitor its third-party marketplace items to make sure they don’t feature sexual and transgender products aimed at minors. The company also will stop participating in the Human Rights Campaign’s annual benchmark index that measures workplace inclusion for LGBTQ+ employees. A Walmart spokesperson added that some of the changes were already in progress and not as a result of conversations that it had with Starbuck. RaShawn “Shawnie” Hawkins, senior director of the HRC Foundation’s Workplace Equality Program, said companies that “abandon” their commitments workplace inclusion policies “are shirking their responsibility to their employees, consumers, and shareholders.” She said the buying power of LGBTQ customers is powerful and noted that the index will have record participation of more than 1,400 companies in 2025.

Selling Christmas gifts online could make Aussies $1 billion, says eBayStock market today: Wall Street gains ground as it notches a winning week and another Dow recordVikings rookie edge rusher Dallas Turner didn’t have a big role on Sunday in Seattle, but defensive coordinator Brian Flores said he took a step in the right direction. It was during Turner’s first defensive snap against the Seahawks, midway through the second quarter, when he lined up at off-ball linebacker next to Blake Cashman and intercepted Seahawks quarterback Geno Smith . Turner, the athletic 17th overall pick out of Alabama, had more coverage snaps (6) than he did pass rushes (5) for the first time this season, according to Pro Football Focus. Coaches have focused on improving Turner’s zone coverage drops, which Vikings defenders of all positions are asked to do under Flores. “There’s been extra work on that in particular,” Flores said Tuesday. “Lo and behold, it shows up. So it’s good for us as a coaching staff to see that. ... He was right there where he was supposed to be and he was able to make a play. Now, I wish he would’ve stayed on his feet, because there was some space there, but we’ll just take it one step at a time.” “Kind of the practice reps showing up in game, and kind of gives him a little bit of — reinforces a lot of things we say,” Flores added. “Hopefully, he continues to kind of grow and learn and practice it a certain way, and then apply it again.” Who’s your most underrated Vikings? Tell us what you think. Flores continues to rely on four veteran edge rushers in Jonathan Greenard , Andrew Van Ginkel , Jihad Ward , and Pat Jones II ahead of Turner, who is often the fifth player in his group to take the field. Coaches preach patience with Turner and most rookies in a defensive scheme that prides itself on complexity and asking defenders to do a little bit of everything. Even defensive tackle Harrison Phillips dropped into coverage for just the fourth time this season, but Smith quickly threw his way toward tight end Noah Fant for a 17-yard gain during Seattle’s go-ahead touchdown drive in the fourth quarter. “Looking back on that one, maybe we do something a little different next time,” Flores said. “But with enough practice reps ... most guys will get to a functional level [in coverage]. Dallas, you know, with his amount of ability he has, athleticism, he can get to a high level. He can get to wherever he wants to get based on his overall talent.” The Vikings officially opened the 21-day practice window for linebacker Ivan Pace Jr. , who has missed the last four games on injured reserve due to a hamstring strain. The team also signed cornerback Ambry Thomas , a 2021 third-round pick by the 49ers, to the practice squad. He started 11 games over three years for San Francisco, but he had spent this season on IR before being released on Dec. 17. McCain helping offense, too Veteran safety Bobby McCain has started 88 games, including a playoff game, but he had played just three defensive snaps all season before Sunday’s win in Seattle . Flores relied on McCain and safety Theo Jackson , who had the game-sealing interception , to replace the injured Harrison Smith . But the 31-year-old McCain’s impact went beyond the defense. He also helped the Vikings offense convert an early fourth down to tight end T.J. Hockenson by sniffing out a weakness in the original play design during practice last week. “We ran that in practice and Bobby took it away,” coach Kevin O’Connell said, “and my immediate dialogue was not, ‘Hey, let’s get the look right.’ It was, ‘Bobby, what’d you think on that? What would help it?’ So, we made some adjustments to it that ended up playing out in the game.” To get exclusive analysis on the Vikings in your inbox every Friday, sign up for the free Access Vikings newsletter . Email your Vikings questions to accessvikings@startribune.com .

Walmart's DEI rollback signals a profound shift in the wake of Trump's election victoryThe Dow Jones Industrial Average, a benchmark index in the stock market, might not be the first thing that comes to mind in the gaming world. However, with the integration of new technologies like blockchain and artificial intelligence, this traditional financial indicator could soon find its place within the innovative realm of gaming. Blockchain Technology in Gaming Blockchain promises to bring transparency and security that appeal to both gamers and developers. It can track in-game assets and ensure authenticity, making it an exciting technology for the virtual economy in gaming. Imagine a game where the prices of virtual items are pegged to real-world financial indices like the Dow Jones. This connection could enhance the gaming experience, creating a dynamic link between financial markets and virtual worlds. AI and Predictive Analysis With artificial intelligence advancing rapidly, gaming manufacturers could incorporate AI to interpret the dynamics of the Dow Jones Index and simulate economic conditions within games. Players might engage in scenarios where they make strategic decisions based on fluctuating market trends, simulating a high-stakes financial environment. This development could introduce a new genre of educational financial strategy games. The Future of Reality and Simulation As gaming continues to evolve, the barriers between reality and digital experiences diminish. Integrating the Dow Jones Index into gaming not only broadens the horizon for game developers but also educates players about economic principles. As technology blurs the lines between virtual and reality, expect the unexpected, where even the staid Dow Jones finds its influence in pixels and polygons. The Revolutionary Fusion of Gaming and Finance: What’s Next? The integration of cutting-edge technologies into the gaming industry is no longer a future prospect but a present reality. With innovations like blockchain and artificial intelligence (AI) extending their reach, the walls between traditional financial indicators, such as the Dow Jones Industrial Average, and the gaming world are gradually crumbling. Here’s how these technologies are reshaping gaming and what new trends and possibilities they bring into the limelight. Blockchain and Gaming: A Perfect Match Blockchain continues to redefine security and transparency in gaming, emerging as a vital component in the digital economy. By utilizing blockchain, developers can not only secure in-game transactions and prevent fraud but also ensure players gain genuine ownership of digital assets. This technology offers a unique opportunity to tie in-game economies to real-world market indices like the Dow Jones, potentially pegging virtual item prices to actual financial performance. Imagine games where your virtual investments are directly influenced by global market movements — a thrilling addition to gameplay that introduces players to economic risk management and investment strategies. AI: The Strategic Game Changer Artificial intelligence is a formidable force in creating immersive gaming experiences. The ability of AI to predict and simulate market trends based on Dow Jones dynamics opens a new frontier where gaming and financial education converge. These AI-driven games can help players understand complex economic conditions, encouraging strategic thinking and decision-making in virtual stock markets. This intersection of gaming and finance not only entertains but also imparts valuable real-world skills, potentially sparking interest in financial careers among younger audiences. Innovations Bridging Virtual and Real Worlds The convergence of gaming with financial indices signifies an exciting trend — the dissolution of boundaries between the digital and physical realms. As game developers harness the power of financial data, new simulation genres emerge, offering players insights into economic principles and market operations. This approach can transform gaming from mere entertainment to a sophisticated educational tool, cultivating financial literacy in engaging ways. Predictions and Market Trends The path forward for the gaming industry includes more profound integrations with financial technologies. Future trends suggest a rise in games that not only entertain but also teach and simulate real-world scenarios. Moreover, these innovations pave the way for collaborations between tech companies and traditional financial institutions, aiming to diversify and enrich user experiences. As we stand on the brink of this innovative fusion, the potential for gaming is limitless. Whether enhancing virtual economies or providing thrilling new ways to engage with the stock market, the amalgamation of finance and gaming offers a rich landscape for exploration and growth. For more information on gaming innovations, check out Ubisoft .