Latest challenge to North Carolina's power-shifting law focuses on state elections board control

Antioch Baptist Church 332 Elizabeth St., Sewickley. 412-741-7688. antiochfwbaptistsewickley.org. Morning worship and praise service is at 10:45 a.m. First Sunday Sunday School is at 9:30 a.m. First Friday virtual Bible study is at 7 p.m. A link is available via Pastor Dean’s Facebook page. Beth Samuel Jewish Center 810 Kennedy Drive, Ambridge. 412-266-5238. bethsamuel.org. Beth Samuel Jewish Center offers weekly Shabbat services, family services once a month and Kabbalat Shabbat services online once per month. There is also Religious School every Sunday. Additional events are as follows: First Friday: Family Service at 7 p.m. in the sanctuary, followed by an Oneg in the social hall. Shabbat Morning Services: Saturday mornings at 10 a.m. in the sanctuary, followed by a Kiddush in the social hall. Kabbalat Shabbat Services: Usually on the third Friday of the month, at 7 p.m. on Zoom. Contact the office for the link. This get-together frequently includes a visiting musician, cantor, rabbi or other noteworthy guest. Religious School: From preschool through bar-bat mitzvah, every Sunday morning on campus. To learn more, call, go online or email bethsamuel office@comcast.net. Community Presbyterian Church of Ben Avon 7501 Church Ave., Ben Avon. 412-761-1233. cpcba.squarespace.com. Join us as we worship with our newly installed pastor, the Rev. Heather Shoenewolf, on Sunday mornings at 10:30. We are a Matthew 25 church, gay-­affirming and LGBTQ-friendly, and we support racial justice and equity. Divine Redeemer Parish 200 Walnut St., Sewickley. 412-741-6650. divine-redeemer.com. Divine Redeemer Parish celebrates weekend Masses at 4:30 p.m. Saturdays at St. James Church and 5 p.m. at St. Mary Church in Aleppo. Sunday Masses are celebrated at 8 and 11 a.m. at St. James and 9:30 a.m. at St. Mary. Weekday Masses and Adoration are celebrated as well. Check the website for Mass times and other information and events. First Church of Christ, Scientist 222 Beaver St., Sewickley. 412-741-4552. christiansciencepgh.org. Sunday morning services are held at 10:30 a.m. Join us for inspiration, peace and healing. Services include music, hymns and readings from the Bible and “Science and Health with Key to the Scriptures” by Mary Baker Eddy. On Sunday, Dec. 1, join the church for Christmas carols and refreshments after the service. For weekly Bible lessons, call 412-532-2222. Grace Anglican Church 325 Church Lane, Edgeworth. 412-724-1676. edgeworthanglican.com. Join the church Sunday morning for a traditional service of Holy Communion at 10:15 a.m. and on First Saturdays at 4 p.m. for a quiet contemplative service of prayer and Holy Communion. Morning Prayer services are every Monday, Tuesday, Thursday and Friday at 8 a.m. Little Hill United Methodist Church 2350 Magee Road Ext., Franklin Park. 412-741-4920. Morning worship is at 10 a.m. Adult Sunday School takes place at 9 a.m. Holy Communion is every first Sunday of the month. Sewickley Presbyterian Church 414 Grant St., Sewickley. 412-741-4550. sewickleypresby.org. Sunday worship services are held at 8 a.m., 9 a.m. and 11 a.m. The 9 a.m. and 11 a.m. services are livestreamed. Discipleship hour is at 10 a.m. on Sundays. For a complete list of weekly groups and studies, visit the website. Sewickley United Methodist Church 337 Broad St., Sewickley. 412- 741-9430. sewickleyumc.org. The Sewickley United Methodist Church has two services each Sunday: 9 a.m. contemporary, featuring our praise band Leap of Faith; and 11 a.m. traditional, with nursery care and children’s ministries during both services. The church is a reconciling congregation and openly welcomes all people. St. Brendan’s Episcopal Church Corner of Rochester and McAleer roads, Franklin Park. 412-364-5974. stbrendans.org. St. Brendan’s is an open, welcoming and active church that holds in-person worship with Eucharist at 8 a.m. and 10 a.m. Sundays and 6 p.m. Wednesdays. Nursery coverage is available for children at the Sunday 10 o’clock service, which is livestreamed on YouTube. The church holds a monthly Children’s Service at 10 a.m. on the fourth Sunday of each month, inviting young members to take part by reading and serving during the liturgy. On Dec. 22, the Christmas pageant will serve as the Children’s Service. St. Brendan’s is seeking donations of stuffing mix, canned yams and other vegetables, cranberry sauce and biscuit mix. The foods will be distributed by the North Hills Food Bank. The Justice Ministry is collecting gently used winter coats for the men and women helped through the Neighborhood Resilience Project in Pittsburgh. Gloves, mittens, hats and scarves are welcome as well. Donations may be brought to the church lobby. The Book Club will meet on Dec. 2 at 1 p.m. in the library to discuss by “Tom Lake” by Ann Patchett. The novel is a story of quiet reflection about family life and the development of mature love. Sticks and Strings, the parish crafts group for those who knit, crochet or embroider, continues to meet on the first Friday and third Wednesday of every month, 6 p.m. to 8 p.m., in the church library. Morning Prayer is offered at 8 a.m. Monday through Friday via Zoom. Bible Study is held at 11 a.m. Tuesdays via Zoom. Contact the office for links. St. John’s Lutheran Church 1320 Church St., Ambridge. 724-266-5618. stjohnsambridge.org. The congregation of St. John’s Lutheran Church will present a live outdoor Nativity on Dec.7 beginning at 5 p.m. and repeating every 20 minutes until the last presentation, which starts at 7:20 p.m. New additions to the cast include live animals such as donkeys, camel, sheep, goats and cattle. The dining room, serving authentic German food, will be open from 3-7:30 p.m. The public is invited to join. The historic church building will be open to the public and guided tours will be offered from 2-7:20 p.m. In addition, Old Economy Village will be hosting Christmas at the Village. The event takes place at the beautifully decorated, candlelit 19th century village and will feature local musical performances and holiday lights, along with kids’ crafts and activities, and the opportunity to meet Belsnickel, the Pennsylvania Dutch Santa Claus. St. Luke the Evangelist Parish 2586 Wexford Bayne Road, Franklin Park. saintluke.net. Single adults over the age of 21 are invited to join ASPIRE (Adult Single People: Inspiring, Relating, Evolving) Ministry for a light meal on Dec. 13 at 6:30 p.m. Spiritual director Karen Lehman, ME, will offer a presentation entitled “Gratitude.” Lehman is a former Pittsburgh diocesan educator and previously a Sister of Divine Providence. This event will provide time for discussion and fellowship. Please register at saintluke.net/aspire-events. Every month, Saint Luke the Evangelist hosts a sensory-friendly Mass for those who may find it challenging to attend a typical Sunday Liturgy. This Mass is intentionally designed to lessen environmental stimulus to provide a prayerful, welcoming and non-judgmental worship experience for everyone in the parish. Families with small children, individuals with Autism, asthma, ADHD, sensory processing disorder, Down’s Syndrome, intellectual and developmental disabilities, and adults with dementia and Alzheimer’s can worship in an environment that respects their individuality and lovingly incorporates them as accepted and celebrated members of the parish community. While it is geared toward people with sensory issues, all people are welcome to attend this Mass. St. Matthews AME Zion Church Corner of Walnut and Thorn streets, Sewickley. 412-742-4239. Services at 10:30 a.m. Sundays. Visit the YouTube channel, @StmatthewsAmez1862, where services are streamed. St. Paul’s Lutheran Church 616 Washington St., Sewickley. 412-741-8484. Sunday worship is at 10 a.m.; Sunday school at 9 a.m. Weekly Bible study is at 10 a.m. Tuesdays at the Edgeworth Eat’n Park. The Kids’ Community Closet is a “free-cycle” community space to share kids’ clothes (birth through size 14/16). All clothing is free and in good, very gently used condition — some items still have tags on. There are no applications, income requirements, or donations necessary. The Kids’ Community Closet is located at St. Paul’s Lutheran Church and is open 10 a.m. to 1 p.m. every Saturday, and noon to 2:30 p.m. every Tuesday. St. Stephen’s Anglican Church 405 Frederick Ave., Sewickley. 412-741-1790. ststephenschurch.net. Regular weekend services are held Sundays at 8 a.m., 9:15 a.m. and 11:15 a.m. Groups, classes and events for all ages including Bible Studies, single mom’s groups, memory loss support group, GriefShare, and men’s and women’s service groups. Sunday morning children’s programming is available for birth through fifth grade. Visit ststephenschurc.net/weekend-children to learn more about our events and resources for parents. Join the church on Dec. 4 for the annual Christmas Carnival from 6-8 p.m. New this year is pizza for purchase. Come enjoy a night of festivities including crafts, games, hot cocoa bar, and popcorn bar — and don’t forget to visit the photo booth! Joining in Sewickley Borough’s Light up Night on Dec. 6, the Henning House (Broad Street side of church campus) will be open from 5-9 p.m. offering a festive craft for all ages, hot chocolate and (a limited number) of light sabers for the kiddos. All are welcome to stop by. Gray Matter Roundtable is a fellowship opportunity for those who are retired (or nearing retirement) to strengthen community with each other and with our broader St. Stephen’s family. The group meets on the last Wednesday of every month (1:30 – 3 p.m.) with the specific intent to connect with, learn from and serve one another. Call the church to register. Triumph Church 1293 Mt. Nebo Road, Ohio Twp. 412-630-8204. triumph1293.org. Sunday worship is at 10:30 a.m. Wednesday evening online Bible study takes place at 6:30 p.m. (contact the church for Zoom information). The angel tree provides gifts for teenagers up to age 18 and serves the children of Crisis Center North. The last day to submit a gift is Dec. 8. Youth night is every Tuesday at 6:30 p.m. An online bible study takes place on Wednesdays at 6 p.m. with Pastor Craig Giles. Visit the website for the Zoom link and password. A senior ministry bible study is held in person and online on Fridays at 10:30 a.m. Volunteers are needed for the fourth Friday of every month for Triumph’s food distribution. From 2-4 p.m. volunteers will set up and package food and from 5-7 p.m., volunteers will distribute and breakdown the set up. Visit the website to sign up. To have your church or place of worship’s upcoming events listed in the Sewickley Herald, email information to Katie Green, kgreen@triblive.com.What Does Christmas Mean to Lawyers?Lopetegui came into the game under pressure following some poor displays from the Hammers in recent weeks but they earned a hard-fought victory to end the Magpies’ three-game winning spell. Despite a promising opening from the hosts, Tomas Soucek headed West Ham in front before Aaron Wan-Bissaka’s first goal for the club after the break wrapped up victory. Lopetegui was pleased with his side’s display following a “tough match”. He said: “I am happy for the three points and am very happy against a good team like Newcastle, who have good players and a fantastic coach. “I think today was a tough match and we were able to compete as a team. “I think we deserved to win. Today they had many moments in the first half, but I think the second half we deserved to win and we are happy because you have to do these kind of matches against this type of team if you want to overcome them.” Newcastle started brightly and had plenty of chances in the first half especially, but the visitors responded after the break by retaining possession well. The win eases the pressure on Lopetegui, whose West Ham side face Arsenal on Saturday, and he believes the victory is an important feeling for his players. He said: “I think the only thing that is under our control is to play football, to improve, to defend well, to convince the players we are able to do better. “Today we did, but I think the only thing we can do is to do the things that are under our control, not today but every day. “So we had to keep with this mentality, but above all let me say we are happy for the players because they need this kind of feeling as a team to believe that we are able to do well as a team, to put the best for each player of the team.” Newcastle boss Eddie Howe admitted defeat was a missed opportunity for his side. The Magpies missed a series of chances in the first half, including efforts from Joe Willock and Sean Longstaff, before Alexander Isak blasted a chance off target. Anthony Gordon also rolled an effort just wide of the post after the break and Isak headed wide of goal. Three points could have seen Newcastle move into the top six and Howe admitted his side need to learn from the match. “Yes, massive because the league is so tight that a couple of wins and the whole picture looks very different,” Howe said. “We’ll kick ourselves tonight because we knew the opportunity we had, a home game, Monday night, a great moment for us potentially in our season, so we have to learn from that and come back stronger.”

The O.N. Jonas Foundation announces this year’s Arts-in-Education grant recipients. The foundation oversees two major grant entities: the Seretean Foundation grants for elementary schools and the Lorberbaum Foundation grants for middle and high schools. Teachers in Dalton, Murray County and Whitfield County schools may apply for grants to expand and enhance arts instruction in visual arts, music, theater or dance. Students at Westwood, Valley Point and Chatsworth elementary schools will benefit from this year’s Seretean grants. Megan Walker’s Westwood students will create silhouettes of children at play. Under the direction of Kaylee Fissel, additional barred instruments will be incorporated into Valley Point students’ music education. Sheri Carr’s Chatsworth students will create arts and crafts for a Celebration of Cultural Diversity. The Seretean grants began in 2011. Due to their success in enhancing arts learning in area elementary schools, in 2021 the Lorberbaum Foundation established grants for middle and high school arts. Students at Dalton High School, Northwest Whitfield High School and Murray County High School will benefit from this year’s Lorberbaum grants. The addition of a classroom music technology studio will provide Rodney Gipson’s students at Dalton High with hands-on experience and practical knowledge to prepare them for a career in music production. Josh Ruben’s students at Northwest Whitfield High will produce masque theatre — they will construct masks, research storytelling traditions, write scripts and perform short plays. An additional trailer at Murray County High will provide increased storage capacity for Holly Kinsey’s band students, allowing prop and technology inventory to increase. Submitted by the O.N. Jonas Foundation.

Penn State kicks off Sunshine Slam by cruising past Fordham

Turning ideas into thriving venturesStock markets to end 2024 with positive returns despite roller coaster ride PTI Updated: December 29th, 2024, 16:46 IST in Business 0 Share on Facebook Share on Twitter Share on WhatsApp Share on Linkedin New Delhi: Dalal Street had a roller coaster ride in 2024 from shattering record after record to facing heavy correction off-late but equity markets still rewarded investors with positive returns, driven by a surge in domestic fund flows and a resilient macro landscape. The first half of the year saw robust corporate earnings, a surge in domestic flows, and a resilient macro landscape, driving the Nifty to an all-time high of 26,277.35 in September 2024, according to Motilal Oswal Wealth Management. Also Read Rupee falls steepest in almost two years 2 days ago India’s forex reserves drop by $8.478 billion to $644.391 billion 2 days ago “In the last two months, the market has corrected from its all-time high. This correction marked the third major decline since the COVID-19 pandemic in 2020, with unprecedented selling by Foreign Institutional Investors (FIIs) due to a combination of domestic and global factors,” it said in a note. As of December 27, the BSE benchmark Sensex has gained 6,458.81 points or 8.94 per cent while the NSE Nifty climbed 2,082 points or 9.58 per cent. The year was marked by significant events, with the Indian general elections and the US Presidential polls taking centre stage. Equity markets also grappled with two major geopolitical turmoil — the Israel-Iran conflict and the ongoing Russia-Ukraine war. “2024, was a year of tug of war between the bulls & bears marked by volatility majorly driven by global microeconomic data points followed by geopolitical tensions impacting markets. Despite all the uncertainties around the world, Indian markets sustained the pressure and delivered very decent returns. “It was also a year of surge in valuation to the peak making Indian markets the most expensive in the world. While the excess liquidity in the market pushed valuations as high as possible surpassing fundamentals theories which eventually invited corrections in the markets from the top,” Prashanth Tapse, Senior VP Research, Research Analyst, Mehta Equities Ltd, said. The BSE benchmark Sensex hit its record peak of 85,978.25 September 27 this year, and the NSE Nifty also reached the lifetime high of 26,277.35 on the same day. “2024 marked the ninth consecutive year of gains for the Indian equity market. Despite a challenging final quarter, the market delivered strong returns for the year, with midcap and smallcap stocks outperforming and rewarding investors handsomely. “However, benchmark indices like the Nifty and Sensex lagged behind their global counterparts, particularly the US markets. This underperformance was largely driven by persistent and aggressive selling by FIIs,” Santosh Meena, Head of Research, Swastika Investmart Ltd, said. From the all-time highs in September, the BSE benchmark is down 8.46 per cent while Nifty has lost 9.37 per cent from the record peak level. The challenges deepened in the final quarter as disappointing corporate earnings and weaker-than-expected economic growth further dampened investor confidence, contributing to the subdued performance of the headline indices, Meena said. Markets came under bear attack from October onwards amid concerns of foreign investors fleeing the domestic market and stretched valuations. In October alone, the BSE benchmark slumped 4,910.72 points or 5.82 per cent, and the Nifty tumbled 1,605.5 points or 6.22 per cent. So far in December, the benchmark gauge Sensex is down 1,103.72 points or 1.38 per cent. October saw an unprecedented foreign fund outflow of Rs 94,017 crore — the largest monthly withdrawal on record — amid increased allocations to China, muted corporate earnings, and high valuation of Indian stocks. “On a positive note, the commencement of the rate cut cycle in the US provided a key tailwind for global equity markets. However, the Indian equity market faced headwinds due to record levels of aggressive selling by FIIs. Adding to the challenges, disappointing Q2 earnings by India Inc. and a slowdown in GDP growth further dampened investor sentiment,” Meena said. In 2023, the BSE benchmark jumped 11,399.52 points or 18.73 per cent, and the Nifty climbed 3,626.1 points or 20 per cent. This year, apart from the general elections in India, markets saw tight rate cycle by RBI to tackle inflation, unwinding of Yen carry trade, rate cut by the US FED, election in the US and Trump getting elected as the President of the US and stimulus by China, Manish Bhandari, CEO & Portfolio Manager, Vallum Capital Advisors, said. The recent market correction has improved valuations, and the overall outlook for the Indian equity market remains robust, Meena said. “On the global front, the trajectory of the world economy under Trump’s leadership will play a significant role in shaping investor sentiment and market dynamics. Additionally, FII flows will remain a crucial factor in determining the performance and direction of largecap stocks, given their outsized influence on market sentiment,” he added. “Factors dependent for growth would again be similar to last year like geopolitical tussle, US Fed interest rate trajectory and Donald Trump’s tariff policies along with revival of local corporate earnings followed by domestic government policies to support growth. High focus would be on the dynamic relationship between the US and China,” Tapse of Mehta Equities Ltd, said. PTI Tags: BSE Business NSE Stock market Share Tweet Send Share Suggest A Correction Enter your email to get our daily news in your inbox. Leave this field empty if you're human:Some quotations from Jimmy Carter: We have a tendency to exalt ourselves and to dwell on the weaknesses and mistakes of others. I have come to realize that in every person there is something fine and pure and noble, along with a desire for self-fulfillment. Political and religious leaders must attempt to provide a society within which these human attributes can be nurtured and enhanced. — from 1975 book “Why Not the Best?” Our government can express the highest common ideals of human beings — if we demand of government true standards of excellence. At this Bicentennial time of introspection and concern, we must demand such standards. — “Why Not the Best?” I am a Southerner and an American, I am a farmer, an engineer, a father and husband, a Christian, a politician and former governor, a planner, a businessman, a nuclear physicist, a naval officer, a canoeist, and among other things a lover of Bob Dylan’s songs and Dylan Thomas’s poetry. — “Why Not the Best?” Christ said, “I tell you that anyone who looks on a woman with lust has in his heart already committed adultery.” I’ve looked on a lot of women with lust. I’ve committed adultery in my heart many times. This is something that God recognizes I will do — and I have done it — and God forgives me for it. But that doesn’t mean that I condemn someone who not only looks on a woman with lust but who leaves his wife and shacks up with somebody out of wedlock. — Interview, November 1976 Playboy. This inauguration ceremony marks a new beginning, a new dedication within our Government, and a new spirit among us all. A President may sense and proclaim that new spirit, but only a people can provide it. — Inaugural address, January 1977. It’s clear that the true problems of our nation are much deeper — deeper than gasoline lines or energy shortages, deeper even than inflation and recession. ... All the legislation in the world can’t fix what’s wrong with America. ... It is a crisis of confidence. — So-called “malaise” speech, July 1979. But we know that democracy is always an unfinished creation. Each generation must renew its foundations. Each generation must rediscover the meaning of this hallowed vision in the light of its own modern challenges. For this generation, ours, life is nuclear survival; liberty is human rights; the pursuit of happiness is a planet whose resources are devoted to the physical and spiritual nourishment of its inhabitants. — Farewell Address, January 1981. We appreciate the past. We are grateful for the present and we’re looking forward to the future with great anticipation and commitment. — October 1986, at the dedication of the Carter Presidential Library and Museum. War may sometimes be a necessary evil. But no matter how necessary, it is always an evil, never a good. We will not learn to live together in peace by killing each other’s children. — December 2002, Nobel Peace Prize acceptance speech. Fundamentalists have become increasingly influential in both religion and government, and have managed to change the nuances and subtleties of historic debate into black-and-white rigidities and the personal derogation of those who dare to disagree. ... The influence of these various trends poses a threat to many of our nation’s historic customs and moral commitments, both in government and in houses of worship. — From 2005 book “Our Endangered Values.” I think that this breakthrough by Barack Obama has been remarkable. When he made his speech (on race) a few months ago in Philadelphia, I wept. I sat in front of the television and cried, because I saw that as the most enlightening and transforming analysis of racism and a potential end of it that I ever saw in my life. — August 2008, commenting on then-Sen. Barack Obama’s candidacy. I think it’s based on racism. There is an inherent feeling among many in this country that an African-American should not be president. ... No matter who he is or how much we disagree with his policies, the president should be treated with respect. — September 2009, reacting to Rep. Joe Wilson’s shout of “You lie!” during a speech to Congress by President Barack Obama. I’m still determined to outlive the last guinea worm. — 2010, on The Carter Center’s work to eradicate guinea worm disease. You know how much I raised to run against Gerald Ford? Zero. You know how much I raised to run against Ronald Reagan? Zero. You know how much will be raised this year by all presidential, Senate and House campaigns? $6 billion. That’s 6,000 millions. — September 2012, reacting to the 2010 “Citizens United” U.S. Supreme Court decision permitting unlimited third-party political spending. I have become convinced that the most serious and unaddressed worldwide challenge is the deprivation and abuse of women and girls, largely caused by a false interpretation of carefully selected religious texts and a growing tolerance of violence and warfare, unfortunately following the example set during my lifetime by the United States. — From 2014 book “A Call to Action.” I don’t think there’s any doubt now that the NSA or other agencies monitor or record almost every telephone call made in the United States, including cellphones, and I presume email as well. We’ve gone a long way down the road of violating Americans’ basic civil rights, as far as privacy is concerned. — March 2014, commenting on U.S. intelligence monitoring after the Sept. 11, 2001, terror attacks We accept self-congratulations about the wonderful 50th anniversary – which is wonderful – but we feel like Lyndon Johnson did it and we don’t have to do anything anymore. — April 2014, commenting on racial inequality during a celebration of the Civil Rights Act’s 40th anniversary. I had a very challenging question at Emory (University) the other night: “How would you describe the United States of America today in one word?” And I didn’t know what to say for a few moments, but I finally said, “Searching.” I think the country in which we live is still searching for what it ought to be, and what it can be, and I’m not sure we’re making much progress right at this moment. — October 2014 during a celebration of his 90th birthday. The life we have now is the best of all. We have an expanding and harmonious family, a rich life in our church and the Plains community, and a diversity of projects at The Carter Center that is adventurous and exciting. Rosalynn and I have visited more than 145 countries, and both of us are as active as we have ever been. We are blessed with good health and look to the future with eagerness and confidence, but are prepared for inevitable adversity when it comes. — From 2015 book, “A Full Life.”Percentages: FG .526, FT .625. 3-Point Goals: 5-14, .357 (Hicks 3-5, P.Johnson 2-3, Carter 0-1, Dilione 0-1, Dunn 0-1, Kern 0-1, Baldwin 0-2). Team Rebounds: 1. Team Turnovers: 1. Blocked Shots: 1 (Konan Niederhauser). Turnovers: 11 (Baldwin 4, Dilione 4, Carter, Dunn, Nzeh). Steals: 5 (Kern 2, Baldwin, Hicks, P.Johnson). Technical Fouls: None. Percentages: FG .481, FT .500. 3-Point Goals: 4-18, .222 (Dean 2-5, Tripp 1-1, Medor 1-2, Pettis 0-1, Smith 0-1, Richardson 0-2, Rivera 0-2, J.Johnson 0-4). Team Rebounds: 3. Team Turnovers: None. Blocked Shots: 1 (Smith). Turnovers: 14 (Tsimbila 3, Dean 2, J.Johnson 2, Medor 2, Richardson 2, Rivera 2, Tripp). Steals: 9 (Tripp 4, J.Johnson 3, Medor, Rivera). Technical Fouls: None. .

Stock market today: Nvidia drags Wall Street from its records as oil and gold riseRepublicans pick Mast to lead House Foreign Affairs panelNational Insurance increase will cost Ceredigion council an extra £4 million

Ranjan Lanka Ltd., has stepped into the air conditioning (AC) market with the introduction of the Zero brand ACs. Imported from Zero Technologies in China, these ACs are designed to cater to small offices, houses, and apartments. The Zero brand ACs are available in two ranges: non-inverter units with capacities from 9,000 to 12,000 British Thermal Units (BTU), and inverter units ranging from 12,000 to 18,000 BTU. These models are being introduced to the general market for the first time, with the initial launch held in Gampaha. The company plans to distribute the units island-wide from its warehouse in Gampaha and is also seeking dealers to expand their reach. Zero ACs are known for their superior durability and energy efficiency. The copper tubes used in these units are thicker than those of other brands, reducing the risk of corrosion and enhancing their lifespan. Additionally, the branded compressor operates on low wattage, ensuring lower electricity consumption for both inverter and non-inverter models. One-year warranty is offered for the entire machine and a five-year warranty for the compressor. The company also guarantees availability of spare parts, a common concern in the local market. To further enhance customer satisfaction, the company is offering three free services within the first year. Despite these features, the prices of Zero ACs are highly competitive compared to other brands, making them an affordable option without compromising on quality. Ranjan Lanka, known for its supermarket located at No. 04, Rest House Road, Gampaha, has been serving customers with groceries, stationery, garments, and electronics for 30 years. Its legacy dates back even further, to its beginnings in D.S. Senanayake Street, Ampara, nearly 50 years ago.The PGA Tour is making the most sweeping changes to its eligibility in more than 40 years by eliminating 25 tour cards, along with shrinking the size of its fields. The all-exempt tour had been in place since 1983, meaning the top 125 players from the official money list — now the FedEx Cup standings — kept a full PGA Tour card the following season. That changes in 2026 after the PGA Tour policy board approved a new priority list on Monday. Only the top 100 players will earn full tour cards for the following year. The top 30 from the developmental Korn Ferry Tour used to advance to the PGA Tour. That number now goes to 20. Five players from qualifying school will get cards — it previously was the top five and ties. The tour also is doing away with 156-man fields except for two tournaments held on multiple courses. Most tournaments will have 120 players before Daylight Saving Time, then 132 players in spring and a maximum of 144 players in the summer months. Here's a look at what's behind the changes and what it means: The all-exempt tour led to a bloated membership in which nearly 200 players were on the membership rolls through one exemption or another, and those toward the bottom of the priority list could not get into all the tournaments they wanted to play. Those who graduated from the Korn Ferry Tour, for example, could only get in three or four tournaments over the first few months of the season, giving them a disadvantage. The PGA Tour believes that limited full status to the top 100 instead of the top 125 will give everyone who earns a card a fair chance at getting into regular tournaments. Priority to get into tournaments starts with winners of the majors and The Players Championship over the last five years; winners of the Arnold Palmer Invitational, Memorial and Genesis Invitational the last three years; tournament winners the last two years and career money leaders. Next are the top 125; players who have been given a medical extension; and then the 45 players who earned cards from the Korn Ferry Tour, European tour and Q-school. After that are those who finished from No. 126 to No. 150 in the FedEx Cup. All of them have PGA Tour cards. But there's not room for them in every tournament. The most common refrain in golf is to play better to get better status. Those who perennially finish in the top 100 should have no trouble keeping their cards, and they will have fewer players to beat because the fields will be smaller. It also helps newcomers from the Korn Ferry Tour, European tour and Q-school. They can expect to get into every regular tournament, increasing their odds of getting into some of the $20 million signature events. The PGA Tour, already the strongest circuit in golf, is likely to be even more competitive with a greater chance of the top names in contention. The tour also hopes — this is still to be determined — it will improve the pace of play and keep rounds from spilling over into the next day. Players like Peter Malnati and Taylor Pendrith come to mind. Under the new system, neither would have had a full PGA Tour card this year and likely would not have been in the fields for the tournaments they won — Malnati at the Valspar Championship and Pendrith at the CJ Cup Byron Nelson. Those wins make them exempt through 2026. Players who have not performed consistently well, who seem to struggle each year just to finish in the top 125, will have to be at their best to stay on tour. The PGA Tour also is reducing the four spots from Monday qualifiers at open tournaments. Now there will only two spots for the 132-man fields and none for fields of 120 players. One of golf's charms is how one week can change a career. Then again, there has been only one Monday qualifier to win in the last five years — Corey Conners in the 2019 Texas Open. The new eligibility starts in 2026, so that puts a huge emphasis on playing well this year knowing that only the top 100 will keep full status. The four majors are not run by the PGA Tour. The Masters has the smallest field, typically fewer than 100 players. The U.S. Open, British Open and PGA Championship have 156-man fields. The Players Championship, the premier event run by the PGA Tour, is reducing its field from 144 players to 120. AP golf: https://apnews.com/hub/golf

DeepSeek unveils one of the first AI models to rival OpenAI’s o1