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NoneNew York Jets interim coach Jeff Ulbrich said Aaron Rodgers “absolutely” will remain the team's starting quarterback and start Sunday against the Seattle Seahawks. Rodgers, who turns 41 next Monday, has been hampered at times during the Jets' 3-8 start by various injuries to his left leg, including a sore knee, sprained ankle and balky hamstring. Ulbrich said Monday the quarterback came back from the team's bye-week break ready to go. “All I can say, and you'd have to ask Aaron if he's fully healthy, but he's better off today than he's been as of late,” Ulbrich said. "So he's definitely feeling healthier than he has probably for the past month. A healthy Aaron Rodgers is the Aaron Rodgers we all love. “So, I'm excited about what that looks like.” NFL Network reported on Sunday that Rodgers, who missed all but four snaps last season with a torn left Achilles tendon , has declined having medical scans on his injured leg so he can continue to play. “I have not been informed of that, either way,” Ulbrich said. Rodgers suffered what NFL Network reported was a “significant” hamstring injury against Denver in Week 4. He then sprained his left ankle against Minnesota in London a week later. The four-time MVP has not been able to consistently move around during games as he has in the past, when extending plays and making things happen on the run became such a big part of his game. Rodgers said leading into New York's 28-27 loss to Indianapolis last Sunday that it was the healthiest he felt in a while. But he struggled against the Colts, finishing 22 of 29 for 184 yards after a brutally slow start during which he went 9 of 13 for just 76 yards. The Athletic reported last week that owner Woody Johnson broached the idea during a meeting with the coaching staff of having the banged-up Rodgers sit after the Jets' loss to Denver in Week 4. With Rodgers' struggles and perhaps compromised health the past few games, a hot debate on social media and sports talk shows during the past week has been whether the quarterback should take a seat in favor of Tyrod Taylor. But when asked if there has been any talk of shutting down Rodgers, Ulbrich replied flatly: “There has not.” In a follow-up question, the interim coach was asked if Rodgers will, in fact, be the Jets' starting quarterback at home Sunday against the Seahawks. “Absolutely,” Ulbrich said. He added that he didn't feel the need to sit down with Rodgers and address all the reports and chatter outside the facility. “No, I feel like we are on the same page,” the coach said. Last week, Ulbrich said he and his staff would take “a deep dive” into what the team could do better after losing seven of its past eight and being on the verge of missing the postseason for the 14th consecutive year. Ulbrich opted not to make any changes to the coaching responsibilities of his staff and he will continue to run the defense as the coordinator. He also said there would not be any personnel changes coming out of the bye, barring injuries. “But definitely, we created a really clear vision of where we need to improve and found some things,” Ulbrich said. “Obviously, you find the things that you’re not doing well, you need to improve upon them, but then also found some some things that I think we can really build upon. So I was excited in both ways.” Johnson fired general manager Joe Douglas last Tuesday, six weeks after he also dismissed coach Robert Saleh. On Monday, the team announced it would be assisted by The 33rd Team , a football media, analytics and consulting group founded by former Jets GM Mike Tannenbaum, in its searches for a general manager and coach. Ulbrich insisted that isn't creating an awkward situation for him, in particular, as he and his staff focus on the present while the organization begins planning for the future. “In all honesty, it’s not at all,” Ulbrich said. “My singular focus is just finishing the season off the right way, playing a brand of football we’re all proud of, myself included. And that starts with Seattle.” Injuries LB C.J. Mosley said he's “progressing” in his return from a herniated disk in his neck, but is still uncertain about his availability for Sunday. Mosley said Monday was the first time he put on a helmet since the injury occurred during pregame warmups against New England on Oct. 27. ... Ulbrich said the team is still evaluating LT Tyron Smith, who missed the game against Indianapolis with a neck ailment. ___ AP NFL: https://apnews.com/hub/nfl Dennis Waszak Jr., The Associated Press
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In the ever-evolving world of artificial intelligence, accuracy and reliability are paramount. Recently, Google has found itself at the center of controversy regarding the methods it employs to fact-check the responses generated by its latest AI model, Gemini. Reports have emerged alleging that the tech giant is utilizing contract workers without specific domain expertise to evaluate the veracity of Gemini’s answers, raising concerns about the potential for misinformation and compromised quality control. This issue came to light last week when internal guidance documents, reviewed by TechCrunch, revealed that Google instructed GlobalLogic, an outsourcing firm responsible for evaluating AI-generated output, to have their contractors assess all prompts, regardless of their knowledge in the relevant field. Previously, contractors had the option to skip prompts that fell outside their area of expertise, such as a doctor being asked to evaluate legal advice. This change in policy has sparked debate and apprehension among industry experts and the public alike. The Implications of Using Non-Experts for Fact-Checking The implications of using novices to fact-check complex AI-generated responses are significant and far-reaching. Firstly, it raises concerns about the accuracy and reliability of the information being produced by Gemini. Without subject matter experts evaluating the responses, there is a heightened risk of errors, biases, and misleading information going undetected. This could have serious consequences, especially in fields where accuracy is crucial, such as healthcare, finance, and law. Secondly, this practice undermines the public’s trust in AI technology. As AI becomes increasingly integrated into various aspects of our lives, it is essential that the information it provides is trustworthy and accurate. If users cannot rely on the veracity of AI-generated content, it could lead to skepticism and reluctance to embrace this transformative technology. Furthermore, this situation raises ethical concerns about the exploitation of contract workers. By requiring them to evaluate information outside their expertise, Google may be placing undue pressure on these individuals and potentially jeopardizing the quality of their work. This practice could also be seen as undervaluing the importance of specialized knowledge and expertise in ensuring the accuracy of AI systems. Google’s Response and the Path Forward In response to these allegations, Google has defended its practices, stating that the evaluation process is multifaceted and involves multiple layers of review. They emphasize that the feedback from contractors is just one component of a broader system that includes automated checks and expert evaluation. However, critics argue that relying on non-experts for initial fact-checking could still allow inaccuracies to slip through the cracks, potentially compromising the integrity of the entire system . To address these concerns and ensure the accuracy and trustworthiness of Gemini’s responses, Google should prioritize the following steps: My Personal Experience with AI and the Importance of Expert Knowledge As someone who has been closely following the development of AI for many years, I have witnessed both its incredible potential and its limitations. In my own work, I have used AI tools for various tasks, such as generating content and analyzing data. However, I have always emphasized the importance of human oversight and expert knowledge to ensure the accuracy and reliability of the results. I believe that AI can be a powerful tool for augmenting human capabilities and solving complex problems. However, it is crucial to recognize that AI systems are not infallible and require careful monitoring and evaluation. By prioritizing expert knowledge and investing in robust quality control processes, we can harness the full potential of AI while mitigating the risks associated with misinformation and bias. The Future of AI and the Need for Responsible Development The controversy surrounding Google’s fact-checking practices serves as a reminder of the importance of responsible AI development. As AI continues to evolve and become more sophisticated, it is crucial that we prioritize ethical considerations and ensure that these technologies are used for the benefit of humanity. This includes ensuring that AI systems are accurate, reliable, and free from bias. It also means being transparent about the limitations of AI and providing users with the information they need to make informed decisions. By working together and adhering to ethical principles, we can create a future where AI is a force for good, empowering us to solve some of the world’s most pressing challenges. The allegations against Google highlight the critical need for rigorous fact-checking processes in the development and deployment of AI systems. By relying on non-experts to evaluate the accuracy of Gemini’s responses , Google risks compromising the integrity of its AI model and eroding public trust in this transformative technology. Moving forward, it is essential that Google prioritizes the engagement of subject matter experts, refines its evaluation guidelines, and maintains transparency and accountability in its AI development practices. By doing so, Google can help to ensure that AI is used responsibly and ethically, paving the way for a future where this technology benefits all of humanity.
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No. 22 Xavier faces South Carolina St., eyes rebound from lone lossMONTGOMERY, Ala. (AP) — Brandon Gilliam made field goals of 42, 29 and 30 yards and Alabama State beat Prairie View A&M 9-6 on Saturday to secure a third straight winning season under coach Eddie Robinson. The last time Alabama State had three straight winnings seasons was under coach Reggie Barlow, who had five consecutive from 2010-15. Javascript is required for you to be able to read premium content. Please enable it in your browser settings.Dick Spotswood: Marin precinct results for presidential election are interesting
Experience an unparalleled auditory adventure with the , a remarkable product available on at a 25% discount. If you're seeking the perfect combination of cutting-edge technology, comfort, and style in a set of headphones, look no further. The has seized the spotlight with its immaculate design and functional excellence, offering users an exclusive opportunity to elevate their audio experience. Let’s delve into why the should be your next purchase. First and foremost, the exceptional noise cancellation technology provided by these headphones is second to none. Armed with two powerful processors managing eight microphones, the ensures that your listening is free from any external interruptions. Whether you are at home or on the go, these headphones create an immersive environment, offering a serene escape into your world of music. Furthermore, the stands out for its superior hands-free calling feature. 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The sleek design is not only about aesthetics; it complements the high-quality sound experience, ensuring that style doesn’t come at the expense of substance. Finally, convenience is at your fingertips with the intuitive touch controls of the . With just a simple touch, you can manage your music, control volume, activate voice assistants, and answer calls effortlessly. Take advantage of this limited-time offer on and upgrade to the today. Elevate your listening experience and discover true audio immersion.Wheel of Fortune’s most prized tradition is the bonus round, where each episode’s winner is faced with one last puzzle and a mere 10 seconds to come away with an even bigger bundle of cash (or not). But fans want a word with host Ryan Seacrest about how he’s presenting the prizes after giving a puzzling amount of build-up to a player’s $40,000 win. On Friday, November 22’s episode, Brittany Brock, a kindergarten teacher from Chicago, Illinois, was the player to proceed to the coveted bonus round. By then she had won $17,300 in cash, a trip to Kauai, and selected “Living Thing” as her category. With the savvy additional letters of “DPBI” the two-word puzzle read as, “‘_ _ DDL_’ ‘P_PP_'”. Near-instantly, she correctly solved it as “Cuddly Puppy.” The broadcast cut to Seacrest and an excited Brock, and it was time to reveal how much she won from the prize wedge she picked. Seacrest opened the gold prize card and glanced at the figure. “And...” he told her with a surprised grin (below). After a few seconds he added, “Ready?” Broke clasped her hands over her mouth in anticipation as Seacrest then revealed she won an extra $40,000, the least one can win in the bonus round. “$40,000!” he exclaimed. This brought her to a grand total of $57,381 and she was overjoyed nonetheless, embraced her husband. On Social media, many fans celebrated the big win while left wondering why Seacrest presented the prize with such a prolonged rollout that it seemed like a bigger value and as if the confetti was about to overflow onto the Sony Pictures Studios parking lot. “Ryan acting like it’s $75,000 or $100,000 with the slow way he shows the amount,” one fan wrote when the game show shared the clip to YouTube. Over on the WoF Reddit, a fan dedicated a discussion thread to the moment titling it, “Bonus Reveal... lolz.” They continued, “I like Seacrest, but gotta admit, I’m not a fan of the dramatic 40K reveals lol.” “Agreed...” a second user wrote, arguing that a contestant in the future could be “disappointed” it’s not more. “The Mrs. and I commented on that last night. He presents it like it’s something more than the minimum prize amount! One of these days, the contestant is going to react disappointedly.” A third wrote, “He also contorts his body awkwardly and bounces around to just flip the card open. Then says ‘it was this much’ as if he can’t say the amount. Kind of weird. But the lack of higher amounts lately is noticed. I’m glad it’s been all cash so far. A lot of the cars prior were 30k, which is nice, but they were lowest prize.” “I agree, feels like he’s forcing it,” wrote a fourth. A fifth was even more critical, “I’m sorry I know a lot of people are going to get mad at me but I just don’t like him. There’s something about him, that I just don’t enjoy watching him in anything at all.” Meanwhile , Seacrest, of course, had huge shoes to fill replacing the legendary Pat Sajak alongside the iconic Vanna White after four decades for Season 42. His debut month was the strongest ratings month for WoF in the past three years, and viewers were already treated to a viral moment (via a round of sausage) . That said, there have been some other questionable moments according to fans. In September, Seacrest suffered what fans dubbed his “first blooper” , involving a prolonged reaction to rewarding a bonus round. Fans also called out the host for ruling against another player before the timer was up. There have also been a few on-screen “glitches,” and a minor spelling error in a Thanksgiving puzzle . Many fans also blamed a lack of experience on Seacrest’s mishandling of a contestant’s $1million wedge, which she instantly forfeited. Wheel of Fortune , Weeknights, Check your local listings More Headlines: ‘Outlander’: Richard Rankin Teases ‘Shock After Shock’ for Roger & Buck’s Season 7 Adventure ‘Countdown’: Jensen Ackles Shares Look at Filming New Prime Video Show (PHOTOS) Courtney B. Vance Is ‘Percy Jackson’s New Zeus: See His Tribute to Lance Reddick ‘Wheel of Fortune’ Fans Beg Ryan Seacrest to Change His ‘Forced’ Bonus Round Move ‘The Boys’ Season 5 Begins Filming & Everything Else We Know About the Final Chapter
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Trump aims to appoint son-in-law’s father as US ambassador to FranceYour horoscope for Tuesday, November 26, 2024None‘Wheel of Fortune’ Fans Beg Ryan Seacrest to Change His ‘Forced’ Bonus Round Move
Share Tweet Share Share Email The convergence of automation and performance optimization has become a turning point for organizations aiming to achieve operational excellence and sustainability. At the forefront of this transformation is Padmaja Pulivarthy, a distinguished innovator whose contributions have significantly advanced the integration of artificial intelligence (AI) and machine learning (ML) into database management systems. Profile of Padmaja Pulivarthy With over a decade of experience in the IT industry, Padmaja Pulivarthy has established herself as an expert in database management, specializing in Oracle, SQL Server, and Greenplum databases. Her proficiency extends to optimizing queries, ensuring data integrity, and implementing scalable solutions. Notably, she has adeptly navigated big data technologies such as Hadoop, Spark, and Kafka, effectively processing and analyzing large datasets to drive actionable insights for strategic decision-making. Padmaja Pulivarthy Advancements in AI-Driven Database Management Pulivarthy’s research has been instrumental in integrating AI techniques with traditional database systems to enhance data processing, analysis, and decision-making capabilities. Her work emphasizes the role of machine learning in enabling databases to autonomously adapt and optimize their performance, thereby transforming data-driven decision-making by allowing systems to process massive volumes of data with greater precision and responsiveness. In the realm of database query efficiency, Pulivarthy has explored the integration of AI-driven Natural Language Processing (NLP) within Oracle databases. This innovation allows users to interact with data using natural language queries, streamlining data retrieval, minimizing query complexity, and enhancing overall user experience. Industry Trends and Projections The global cloud computing market is experiencing unprecedented growth, with projections estimating its value to reach $947.3 billion by 2026. This surge is driven by the widespread adoption of public cloud services, with 96% of companies utilizing at least one public cloud and 84% employing private cloud solutions. By 2025, it is anticipated that 200 zettabytes of data will be stored worldwide, underscoring the critical need for efficient data management and optimization strategies. In response to these demands, the database automation market is poised for significant expansion, with expectations to grow from USD 2.35 billion in 2024 to USD 6.99 billion by 2029, at a compound annual growth rate (CAGR) of 24.38%. This growth is propelled by the increasing volume of data across industries and the necessity to automate redundant database management processes. The Role of Automation and Performance Optimization Automation in database management encompasses the use of AI and machine learning to provide end-to-end automation for provisioning, security, updates, availability, performance, change management, and error prevention. This includes query optimization, automatic memory management, and storage management, resulting in self-tuning databases that reduce administration costs and enhance efficiency. Performance optimization in cloud databases is crucial as it directly impacts application performance, user experience, and business outcomes. In cloud environments, where databases are hosted on virtual machines or serverless platforms, resource allocation and usage can be complex and variable. Implementing optimization techniques tailored to specific workloads is essential to achieve cost-effectiveness without compromising performance. Future Outlook Looking ahead, the integration of AI and ML into database management systems is expected to become more pervasive, driving further advancements in automation and performance optimization. Organizations are anticipated to increasingly adopt AI-driven solutions to manage the growing complexity and scale of data, aiming for enhanced efficiency and sustainability in their operations. In conclusion, Padmaja Pulivarthy’s trailblazing work in driving excellence and sustainability in database cloud computing through automation and performance optimization exemplifies the transformative potential of integrating AI and machine learning into database management systems. Her contributions continue to inspire and lead the industry towards more intelligent and efficient data management solutions. Leadership in Sustainability through Database Innovations One of Padmaja Pulivarthy’s defining traits is her commitment to sustainability in the technology ecosystem. With the environmental impacts of data centers becoming increasingly scrutinized, her work emphasizes not just efficiency but also eco-responsible innovation. By streamlining database processes, reducing redundancy, and optimizing computational workloads, Pulivarthy has significantly contributed to decreasing the carbon footprint associated with cloud computing. Green Database Computing: A Paradigm Shift Pulivarthy champions green computing principles, advocating for the use of energy-efficient algorithms and intelligent workload management. Through AI-driven automation, she has successfully demonstrated how intelligent resource allocation can lead to a dual benefit: reduced energy consumption and improved system performance. This approach aligns with global sustainability goals, especially as data centers are estimated to consume over 2% of the world’s electricity annually by 2025. Her initiatives include: Dynamic Load Balancing: Using predictive analytics to distribute database workloads efficiently, minimizing idle computing power. Energy-Aware Algorithms: Developing protocols that adapt resource usage based on energy availability, prioritizing renewable energy sources for processing tasks. Carbon Metrics Monitoring: Introducing tools that measure the carbon impact of specific database queries, encouraging developers to write environmentally efficient code. Enabling Democratized Access to AI-Optimized Databases Pulivarthy also strongly advocates for democratizing access to cutting-edge database technologies. She emphasizes creating tools that are not only powerful but also accessible and user-friendly for organizations of all scales. In her vision, small and medium enterprises (SMEs) should be equipped with the same AI-powered database optimization tools as industry giants, leveling the playing field in the data economy. Key Partnerships and Industry Impact Pulivarthy has collaborated with several leading tech firms and research organizations to advance the adoption of AI and ML in database optimization. These partnerships have facilitated the development of tools that address industry-wide challenges, including: Cloud Resource Optimization Frameworks: Collaborating with cloud service providers to create frameworks that adjust resource usage dynamically based on real-time application demands. Intelligent Data Replication: Working with global partners to develop systems that replicate data across geographic regions, reducing latency and increasing system reliability. Zero-Downtime Migration Solutions: Assisting enterprises in transitioning from legacy database systems to cloud-native environments without service disruptions. Her work has not only garnered industry accolades but has also paved the way for tangible advancements in database technologies. Pulivarthy’s strategies have been adopted across finance, healthcare, retail, and logistics industries, showcasing her innovations’ broad applicability. A Glimpse into the Future Autonomous Databases at Scale The next evolution in database technology, as envisioned by Padmaja Pulivarthy, lies in the widespread adoption of autonomous databases. These systems utilize self-learning algorithms to adapt and self-heal without human intervention. While major players like Oracle have pioneered such technologies, Pulivarthy’s contributions focus on making these systems more efficient, less resource-intensive, and universally adoptable. Her future-forward projects include: Next-Gen Query Optimization Engines: Designing engines that adapt in real-time to changing data patterns, ensuring optimal query performance regardless of workload complexity. AI-Augmented Governance Models: Creating systems where AI ensures compliance with data governance regulations while maintaining high efficiency and security standards. Sustainable Data Lake Management: Introducing methodologies to manage unstructured data lakes with a minimal environmental footprint. The Intersection of Cloud and Edge Computing Pulivarthy also foresees a world where cloud and edge computing synergize seamlessly. In this model, critical data processing happens closer to the source (edge computing), while deep analytics and historical data management occur in the cloud. This dual approach reduces latency and energy consumption, making it ideal for real-time applications like IoT and autonomous vehicles. Quantum Computing in Databases Another promising frontier that Pulivarthy is exploring is quantum computing’s application in database management. By leveraging quantum algorithms, she aims to solve problems currently deemed computationally infeasible, such as breaking down massive datasets into actionable insights in seconds. Educational Contributions and Mentorship Beyond her technical contributions, Pulivarthy is a staunch advocate for education and mentorship in technology. She regularly delivers keynote addresses at industry conferences, inspiring the next generation of tech innovators. Her initiatives include: Workshops for Women in Tech: Encouraging greater gender diversity in database and cloud computing fields by hosting skill-building workshops tailored for aspiring female technologists. Open-Source Contributions: Leading community-driven projects to develop open-source tools for database management and performance optimization. University Collaborations: Partnering with academic institutions to bridge the gap between theoretical database research and real-world applications. Recognition and Legacy Pulivarthy’s pioneering efforts have been recognized globally, earning her accolades from organizations like the Data Science Society and the International Cloud Computing Consortium. Her achievements serve as a testament to her unwavering dedication to excellence, sustainability, and inclusivity in database technologies. Based on her significant contributions and research work, Padmaja Pulivarthy has been given the opportunity to serve as a peer reviewer for IEEE, IGI Global, and Springer. Padmaja Pulivarthy has been honored with a fellowship from prestigious organizations such as IETE. Padmaja Pulivarthy has been an Award Jury Member for Customer Centricity World And QS Reimagine Education Awards Awards and Achievements 2024 Titan Business Awards – Best Technical Support Strategy and Implementation Bharat Vibhushan Puraskar – 2024 – For Excellence in Information Technology Data Management . The Road Ahead As technology continues to evolve, Padmaja Pulivarthy remains a beacon of innovation in the database cloud computing sector. Her work is a clarion call to embrace the transformative potential of AI, automation, and sustainable practices in an increasingly data-driven world. In the words of Pulivarthy herself: “Innovation is not just about solving today’s problems; it’s about anticipating the needs of tomorrow and building solutions that inspire trust, efficiency, and sustainability.” With leaders like her driving the industry forward, the future of database cloud computing is undoubtedly bright, resilient, and inclusive. Related Items: AWS , bigdata , cloud computing , database , Exadata , Goldengate , Greenplum , it industry , Oracle DBA , Padmaja Pulivarthy , PostgreSQL , RAC Share Tweet Share Share Email Recommended for you A New Era in Cloud Infrastructure Deployment: Firefly’s Self-Service Solution Bridging the Cloud Gap: A Conversation with Richard Hatherall of Appercept on Bringing AWS to Delphi Developers Amazon Introduces Buy With AWS Button Comments
Denton Walmart tries body cameras for workers to tackle shoplifting, conflictWinter Break: A Time To Recharge And ReplenishMr Trump made the announcement in a Truth Social post, calling Charles Kushner “a tremendous business leader, philanthropist, & dealmaker”. Mr Kushner is the founder of Kushner Companies, a real estate firm. Jared Kushner is a former senior Trump adviser who is married to Trump’s eldest daughter, Ivanka. The elder Mr Kushner was pardoned by Trump in December 2020 after pleading guilty years earlier to tax evasion and making illegal campaign donations. Prosecutors alleged that after Charles Kushner discovered his brother-in-law was co-operating with federal authorities in an investigation, he hatched a scheme for revenge and intimidation. Mr Kushner hired a prostitute to lure his brother-in-law, then arranged to have the encounter in a New Jersey motel room recorded with a hidden camera and the recording sent to his own sister, the man’s wife, prosecutors said. Mr Kushner eventually pleaded guilty to 18 counts including tax evasion and witness tampering. He was sentenced in 2005 to two years in prison – the most he could receive under a plea deal, but less than what Chris Christie, the US attorney for New Jersey at the time and later governor and Republican presidential candidate, had sought. Mr Christie has blamed Jared Kushner for his firing from Mr Trump’s transition team in 2016, and has called Charles Kushner’s offences “one of the most loathsome, disgusting crimes that I prosecuted when I was US attorney”. Mr Trump and the elder Mr Kushner knew each other from real estate circles and their children were married in 2009.
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The AP Top 25 men’s college basketball poll is back every week throughout the season! Get the poll delivered straight to your inbox with AP Top 25 Poll Alerts. Sign up here . LOUISVILLE, Ky. (AP) — Billy Smith scored 18 points as Bellarmine beat Bowling Green 80-68 on Saturday. Smith also contributed three steals for the Knights (1-5). Jack Karasinski added 15 points while going 6 of 9 (2 for 4 from 3-point range) while they also had five rebounds. Ben Johnson shot 4 for 12 (2 for 6 from 3-point range) and 4 of 4 from the free-throw line to finish with 14 points. Derrick Butler and Javontae Campbell each scored 21 points for the Falcons (2-4). Youssef Khayat also had 11 points. Karasinski led his team in scoring with nine points in the first half to help put them up 34-29 at the break. Bellarmine extended its lead to 58-46 during the second half, fueled by an 8-0 scoring run. Smith scored a team-high 12 points in the second half. ___ The Associated Press created this story using technology provided by Data Skrive and data from Sportradar .When and where a vote takes place is a decision reserved for the municipal clerk, but the method is up to council, which settled on an online only election. The Municipal Elections Act sets out limits on what council can decide – only the method of the vote. It also outlines the many responsibilities of the clerk. Grey Highlands Clerk Amanda Fines-VanAlstine said that the help centre at the municipal office in Markdale will be open throughout the election period. Details on help centres in other locations will be released when those decisions are made. People who are confident with technology can just vote on their own devices after inputting a code that will be mailed out. DIFFERING OPINIONS The method had to be chosen now, so that the municipality could put out a tender for contracted services for the 2026 election. Originally, council considered a motion for telephone and internet voting. Coun. Tom Allwood shared that he heard criticisms of the phone voting, as did others, so that option was dropped. The vote to limit the vote to internet only with no polling stations and paper ballots was a narrow one – 4 to 3. Mayor Paul McQueen, Deputy Mayor Dane Nielsen and Coun. Dan Wickens were opposed. The Deputy Mayor said that while internet was a good option, he strongly supported that in-person voting be kept in a rural municipality such as Grey Highlands. “We need to have a voting booth on voting day – it’s a strong part of the democratic pride in our voting system,” he said. Mayor McQueen observed that many people like to vote on “Election Day”, even though there is a wider window for voting with alternate methods. And on the last day in the 2018 election, the only polling station open was at the municipal office. Mayor McQueen said he had heard from voters who turned out to spots where there had been prior help centres but there was nothing there. Clerk Fines VanAlstine said that communication would be a big part of the lead-up to the election. She said that, on election day itself, it’s easier if it’s one location. Computers to use for voting will be provided at other help centres and at the municipal office, as well as any assistance needed. The clerk commented that the electronic voting received many compliments when used at Grey Gables in 2022. Election Day is a Monday, when libraries are normally closed, Coun. Paul Allen noted. The clerk steered the conversation away from the topics of the operations side of the election, which for reason of impartiality is placed in the hands of the municipal clerk. MORE DISCUSSION Coun. Dan Wickens also argued in favour of the paper ballot. “I think there’s a large part of the population that are not comfortable even with telephone voting,” he said. “They don’t trust it – they want to see that piece of paper go in the box and they want to see a person count it”. With paper ballots tabulators are often used, and the clerk said those communicate online with voters’ lists, and there are very few suppliers. Mayor Paul McQueen said that both provincial and federal elections are in-person and that is what people are accustomed to, so keeping it consistent has advantages. While it has been argued that internet voting could increase participation levels in elections, that has not been the case. In 2018, there were server issues that caused long delays. An emergency was declared and the voting period extended. Another voting method that has been used in Grey Highlands in the past is a mail-in ballot. Both that method and computer voting are attempts to make it easier for property-owners who don’t live in the municipality to vote. The clerk said she had heard recently that there was one other municipality which had not chosen its voting method. All the others were using internet and telephone voting except Chatsworth, which is strictly the mail-in ballot, she said. During the discussion, Coun. Paul Allen asked if any member was opposed to computer voting, and no one spoke. So, it was really what if any alternatives would be provided that constituted the debate. The pricing for various options was provided in the staff report Internet voting is cost-effective, but councillors also raised participation levels and people’s trust in the process as other concerns. Coun. Joel Loughead said he finds the electronic voting at a help centre much like a paper ballot – “it’s about the act of being there and pressing the button”. Deputy Mayor Nielsen commented before the final vote, that going to a singular electronic voting method was a mistake. “I think this will turn off a segment of our population – I think the goal is to get as much buy-in and response as possible.” Coun. Wickens agreed. “I do think we will be alienating – maybe only a small portion of voters – but I think there are lots of people out there that do not trust the internet.” He said that using people to count ballots mean the vote would be independent of any possible interference or technical glitches. When facing the same decision for the election of 2022, members of the 2018 to 2022 council commented that with codes being issued by mail, they could go to the wrong households or be used by other individuals than those to whom they are addressed,. Other questions they raised were: -How many people thought they had voted, who actually hadn’t? -How many people gave up who would otherwise have voted? -How many were blocked by the system, because it had the wrong year of birth information or for some other reason? -If there were fraudulent votes cast – for example, by people voting in place of other household members, who would be able to prove it? What does acquiring assistance do to the principle of a secret ballot?
BEIRUT (AP) — Israel's military launched airstrikes across Lebanon on Monday, unleashing explosions throughout the country and killing at least 12 while Israeli leaders appeared to be closing in on a negotiated ceasefire with the Hezbollah militant group. Israeli strikes hit commercial and residential buildings in Beirut as well as in the port city of Tyre. Military officials said they targeted areas known as Hezbollah strongholds. They issued evacuation orders for Beirut's southern suburbs, and strikes landed across the city, including meters from a Lebanese police base and the city's largest public park. The barrage came as officials indicated they were nearing agreement on a ceasefire, while Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu's Security Cabinet prepared to discuss an offer on the table. Airstrikes kill at least 12 Massive explosions lit up Lebanon's skies with flashes of orange, sending towering plumes of smoke into the air as Israeli airstrikes pounded Beirut’s southern suburbs Monday. The blasts damaged buildings and left shattered glass and debris scattered across nearby streets. No casualties were reported after many residents fled the targeted sites. Some of the strikes landed close to central Beirut and near Christian neighborhoods and other targets where Israel had issued evacuation warnings, including in Tyre and Nabatieh province. Israeli airstrikes also hit the northeast Baalbek-Hermel region without warning. Lebanon’s Health Ministry said Monday that at least 12 people were killed in the strikes in the Tyre province, adding to the more than 3,700 people in Lebanon who have been killed since Israel launched its invasion two months ago. Many of those killed since the start of the war between Israel and Hezbollah have been civilians , and health officials said some of the recovered bodies were so severely damaged that DNA testing would be required to confirm their identities. Israel says it has killed more than 2,000 Hezbollah members. Lebanon's Health Ministry says the war has displaced 1.2 million people. The latest round of airstrikes came weeks after Israeli ground forces invaded southern Lebanon in early October, meeting heavy resistance in a narrow strip of land along the border. The military had previously exchanged attacks across the border with Hezbollah, an Iran-backed militant group that began firing rockets into Israel the day after the war in Gaza began last year. Lebanese politicians have decried the ongoing airstrikes and said they are impeding U.S.-led ceasefire negotiations. The country's deputy parliament speaker accused Israel of ramping up its bombardment in order to pressure Lebanon to make concessions in indirect ceasefire negotiations with Hezbollah. Elias Bousaab, an ally of the militant group, said Monday that the pressure has increased because “we are close to the hour that is decisive regarding reaching a ceasefire.” Hopes grow for a ceasefire Israeli officials voiced similar optimism Monday about prospects for a ceasefire. Mike Herzog, the country's ambassador to Washington, earlier in the day told Israeli Army Radio that several points had yet to be finalized. Though any deal would require agreement from the government, Herzog said Israel and Hezbollah were “close to a deal." “It can happen within days,” he said. Israeli officials have said the sides are close to an agreement that would include withdrawal of Israeli forces from southern Lebanon and a pullback of Hezbollah fighters from the Israeli border. But several sticking points remain. Two Israeli officials told The Associated Press that Netanyahu’s security Cabinet had scheduled a meeting for Tuesday, but they said it remained unclear whether the Cabinet would vote to approve the deal. The officials spoke on condition of anonymity because they were discussing internal deliberations. Danny Danon, Israel’s U.N. ambassador, told reporters Monday that he expected a ceasefire agreement with Hezbollah to have stages and to be discussed by leaders Monday or Tuesday. Still, he warned, “it’s not going to happen overnight.” After previous hopes for a ceasefire were dashed, U.S. officials cautioned that negotiations were not yet complete and noted that there could be last-minute hitches that either delay or destroy an agreement. "Nothing is done until everything is done," White House national security spokesman John Kirby said Monday. The proposal under discussion to end the fighting calls for an initial two-month ceasefire during which Israeli forces would withdraw from Lebanon and Hezbollah would end its armed presence along the southern border south of the Litani River. The withdrawals would be accompanied by an influx of thousands more Lebanese army troops, who have been largely sidelined in the war, to patrol the border area along with an existing U.N. peacekeeping force . Western diplomats and Israeli officials said Israel is demanding the right to strike in Lebanon if it believes Hezbollah is violating the terms. The Lebanese government has said that such an arrangement would authorize violations of the country's sovereignty. A ceasefire could mark a step toward ending the regionwide war that ballooned after Hamas-led militants stormed into southern Israel on Oct. 7, 2023, killing some 1,200 people, mostly civilians, and abducting another 250 . The lack of a ceasefire has emerged as a political liability for Israeli leaders including Netanyahu, particularly while 60,000 Israelis remain away from their homes in the country's north after more than a year of cross-border violence. Hezbollah rockets have reached as far south into Israel as Tel Aviv. At least 75 people have been killed, more than half of them civilians. More than 50 Israeli soldiers died fighting in the ground offensive in Lebanon. The Israeli military said about 250 projectiles were fired Sunday, with some intercepted. A ceasefire between Israel and Hezbollah, the strongest of Iran’s armed proxies , is expected to significantly calm regional tensions that have led to fears of a direct, all-out war between Israel and Iran. It’s not clear how the ceasefire will affect the Israel-Hamas war in Gaza. Hezbollah had long insisted that it would not agree to a ceasefire until the war in Gaza ends, but it dropped that condition. While the proposal is expected to be approved if Netanyahu brings it to a vote in his security Cabinet, one hard-line member, National Security Minister Itamar Ben-Gvir, said he would oppose it. He said on X that a deal with Lebanon would be a “big mistake” and a “missed historic opportunity to eradicate Hezbollah.” If the ceasefire talks fail, Jordanian Foreign Minister Ayman Safadi said, “it will mean more destruction and more and more animosity and more dehumanization and more hatred and more bitterness.” Speaking at a G7 meeting in Fiuggi, Italy, the last summit of its kind before U.S. President Joe Biden leaves office, Safadi said such a failure "will doom the future of the region to more conflict and more killing and more destruction.” ___ Federman reported from Jerusalem and Metz from Rabat, Morocco. Associated Press writers Edith M. Lederer at the United Nations, Nicole Winfield in Fiuggi, Italy, and Aamer Madhani in Washington contributed to this report. ___ Find more of AP’s war coverage at https://apnews.com/hub/israel-hamas-warArrests made after Kosovo blast called terrorism by premier
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