NASA alerts about airplane sized Asteroid 2024 XN1 approaching Earth on Christmas eveFour favorite Northern New Mexico hikes from 2024A Non-Governmental Organizations, Stand to End Rape Initiative (STER) have urged women to come out, participate in politics and not remain at the back seat. This was made known on Wednesday in Lagos by the program officer of the group, Mr Adeniyi Hussain at a two days training for journalists, civil society and others with a theme: “Amplifying Women’s Political Participation in Nigeria for the 2027 Elections.” Hussain said as a group we are committed to building a society where all individuals, particularly women and girls, can fully participate in politics, social, and economic life without discrimination or violence.Supported by the German Embassy. According to Hussain, the essence of the town hall meeting was as a result of the research carried out by their group in 2021. “The research was a result of violence women face during politics and the result we got was very alarming such as sexual violence, physical assault and part of efforts to reduced the violence is to support advocacy, when that special seat bill about women is being pass into law, men we know that a particular seat is for female alone they will not want to compete with the female in governance. “And that will reduce the violence women face. We also noticed that globally and seen that women participation have brought about national development, country that have high representation of women governance are united Kingdom, United States and Rwanda has six per cent of women in government and one of the thriving African country due to high representation of women in governance. “The goal of this project is to secure the adoption of a legislative quota that guarantees a minimum representation of women in the Nigerian National Assembly by 2027. This is a critical step toward achieving balanced governance and ensuring women’s voices are represented in shaping Nigeria’s future.” He added that through this initiative, we are advocating for the passage of the Special Seats Bill, sensitise the general public on the advantages of women’s representation and drive forward gender-responsive political reforms that ensure women’s leadership in governance. “Part of what we are doing is that we noticed the advocacy was just in Abuja and other places, we decided to bring the discussion to the community in other to engage them and get their views and used it to empower them and to let them know that it’s important for women to participate in politics they are not just meant to seat in the kitchen and home alone.”

FBI Director Wray says he intends to resign at the end of Biden's term in January

How cold is too cold to drive an electric car? Here's a rundown of how to make your EV more efficient to adapt to winter conditions. As become increasingly popular, many potential buyers are concerned about their performance in winter conditions. Are electric cars cut out for driving in the cold? From reduced range to slower charging, here’s how to get the most from your EV during winter weather. Like humans, cars prefer ambient temperatures and cold weather will cause all cars - petrol, diesel, and electric - to function less efficiently. A flat battery, a faulty alternator, or a problem with the starter motor can result in an internal combustion engine (ICE) car struggling to start in winter. EVs, however, face unique challenges due to battery chemistry. Low temperatures reduce battery capacity and range. Capacity is essentially the amount of energy the battery can hold and how quickly it can discharge it so recharging will take longer. In extreme cold, the charging points can also be affected and the result can be a considerably slower charging time so you can expect to spend longer at charging stations during winter. EV batteries store and release energy; colder weather slows down this process. Models with heat pumps and advanced thermal systems perform better, retaining more range than those without. Generally, an can drop up to 30 per cent in moderate winter weather, with reductions reaching 32 per cent in harsher conditions. The Norwegian Automobile Federation (NAF) regularly tests EVs in winter and summer to provide insights into range loss. In a recent winter test, 23 vehicles drove on a mix of urban and rural roads at temperatures between -2°C and -10°C, each starting on a full charge and being driven until depleted. Results showed that while all models lost range, the extent varied significantly. For example, the top-performing models retained most of their advertised range: the HiPhi Z led with 522 km, just 5.9 per cent below its Worldwide Harmonized Light Vehicles Test Procedure (WLTP) rating, followed by the NIO ET5 at 481 km and Hyundai’s IONIQ 6 at 468 km. Tesla’s Model 3, however, achieved almost 30 per cent less than its advertised range. Other results varied widely, BMW's i5 lost only 12.2 per cent of its range, while Toyota's bZ4X, Volvo's C40 Recharge, and Polestar's Long Range models dropped close to 30-31 per cent. Energy consumption also fluctuated, with Ford’s F-150 Lightning consuming 49.2 per cent more energy per 100 km than rated. A study by Recurrent in the US also found similar range differences across models, noting that the Audi e-tron retains up to 80 per cent of its range at 0°C, while the Ford F-150 Lightning retains only 64 per cent. Thanks to well-designed thermal systems, models like the Hyundai Kona Electric can even exceed their official rated range in cold temperatures. These tests underscore the importance of transparent range expectations. Real-world testing like this offers crucial insights into how EVs handle winter’s chill, equipping consumers with vital knowledge for cold-weather driving. You may not be able to control the weather but there is a host of ways to minimise the impact of cold temperatures on your range. When charging overnight, you can schedule preconditioning for the time you’re setting off. This allows you to pre-heat the car's cabin before you start your journey that way you reduce the strain on the battery by using external power rather than the EV’s stored energy. Once on the road, turning the heating on is the quickest way to lose range so use heated seats and a heated steering wheel instead as these use less energy than heating the entire cabin, making them an efficient choice for staying warm. Look out also for an EV with a heat pump. A heat pump transfers heat from cooler areas to warmer ones managing temperature control for the cabin and the battery. It’s worth buying a car equipped with one or spending extra on one if offered as an option. Finally, ensure your tyres are properly inflated as this helps the battery last longer and check tyre pressure regularly as any imbalance in tyre pressure can affect your energy efficiency. Recent advancements are making EVs more resilient in cold climates, addressing the challenges of reduced range and slower charging times. A new high-energy lithium-ion battery from China’s Dalian Institute of Chemical Physics performs reliably at temperatures as low as -60°C and boasts an energy density over 280 Wh/kg. Similarly, an electrolyte blend with ethyl acetate and high lithium salt concentrations, highlighted in New Scientist, allows EVs to function down to -20°C, with potential future operability between -40°C and 60°C. Winter charging improvements include StoreDot’s silicon-based batteries, which reach 80 per cent capacity at -10°C and retain up to 85 per cent of their range. Greater Bay Technology’s Phoenix cell can charge to 80 per cent in just six minutes at -20°C, supported by electric pulse heating technology that warms batteries quickly without damaging their lifespan. Thermal management systems are also evolving, with innovations like Valeo’s smart heat pump, which extends EV range by 30 per cent in winter. These technological strides help EVs maintain efficiency and reliability year-round, equipping drivers to navigate winter conditions with confidence, and paving the way for broader adoption in cold climates.

If you come to Melbourne and do not visit the St Kilda area, your trip is incomplete. Now you may wonder what is so special here... let us tell you that this is the birthplace of the greatest spin bowler in world cricket, . From this area, Shane Warne learned the art of spin and made many of the world's finest batsmen dance to his spin. Warne has many fans worldwide, but there is one person who, in memory of his hero, created a painting of Warne on the wall outside his home. Anton Whitehead, who lives just three streets away from the Junction Oval in St Kilda, is one of Shane Warne's biggest admirers. After Warne's sudden passing in Thailand in March 2022 at the age of 52, Anton commissioned a caricature of Warne on the doorway of his home. Speaking to Mid-Day, Anton Whitehead shares, "In this area of Melbourne, Warne played his first first-class match in 1991. With his spin magic, Warne raised the flag of success on various grounds around the world. Since we are of the same age, we have been fans of his game since childhood. After Warne's passing, as a fan, I wanted to preserve a memory that future generations would remember alongside me." Anton Whitehead contacted 's renowned street painter Ling. On the outer wall of Anton's house, Ling suggested creating a painting of Warne. Anton loved this idea and told Ling, "Put such life into this painting that it immortalizes Warne in the hearts of many people forever." And Ling did just that... he created a painting of Warne that looks like it could come to life right off the wall. Everyone has their own perspective on how to love and remember their favourite players. Even though Warne has left this world, Anton Whitehead has ensured his hero lives on for the people of Melbourne in the streets of Dalgety Lane.Stock Market Today: JSW Energy share price gained almost 8% on Monday in the morning trades as it announced plans to acquire 100% interest in O2 Power Midco Holdings, O2 Energy SG Pte. Limited and their subsidiaries JSW NErgy shre price opened at ₹ 650.20 on the BSE on Monday , more than 5% higher than its previous close of ₹ 625.05. The JSW Energy share price theerafter gained to highs of ₹ 673.05, marking gains of almost 8%. JSW Energy on Friday pot market hours had announced that JSW Neo Energy Limited, a wholly owned subsidiary of JSW Energy Limited, has agreed to acquire 100% interest in O2 Power Midco Holdings Pte. Limited and O2 Energy SG Pte. Limited and their subsidiaries having a consolidated operational and under construction /development renewable energy portfolio of 4.7 GW in India. (more to come) having a consolidated operational and under construction / development renewable energy portfolio of 4.7 GW in IndiaAllurion Technologies files to sell common stock, warrants

With its rich cultural history, stunning landscapes, and vibrant modernity, South Korea has become a favoured travel destination for families from Qatar and across the GCC. Often referred to as “The Land of Morning Calm,” South Korea offers much more than just calm mornings. It is a country where tradition meets innovation, and where every family member can find something exciting, enriching, and memorable to enjoy. From its thriving K-culture scene to its world-class medical tourism offerings, South Korea’s allure continues to captivate travelers from the Middle East. Here are ten reasons why South Korea should top your family’s travel list: 1. Safe and welcoming environment Renowned for its safety and hospitality, South Korea provides a reassuring sense of security for families travelling from the GCC. The Korean culture values respect, warmth, and kindness, which creates a welcoming atmosphere for visitors. Whether you’re exploring bustling markets or strolling through tranquil parks, you’ll experience the generosity of the Korean people. Basic Korean etiquette, such as showing respect to elders and polite interactions with strangers, enhances the visitor experience and ensures that families feel comfortable and embraced. 2. Natural beauty The Songaksan Mountain on Jeju Island, a famous coastal drive with breathtaking scenic views, South Korea. South Korea offers a diverse range of landscapes, perfect for families who appreciate nature. From the snow-capped mountains of the winter season to the vibrant autumn foliage, the country’s natural beauty is awe-inspiring. The eastern coast features beautiful beaches, ideal for a family vacation by the sea, while the western coastline offers expansive shores perfect for water sports and outdoor activities. Jeju Island, a UNESCO World Heritage site, boasts lush gardens and volcanic landscapes, making it a paradise for nature lovers. The changing seasons provide a variety of experiences, ensuring that every visit to South Korea offers something new. 3. Diverse seasons The country’s four distinct seasons offer unique experiences throughout the year. In the summer, temperatures range from 23°C to 30°C, providing ideal conditions for sightseeing and outdoor adventures. The winter transforms South Korea into a winter wonderland, perfect for activities like skiing, snowboarding, and ice fishing. Spring and autumn bring moderate temperatures and stunning scenery, with cherry blossoms in spring and brilliant fall colors making for unforgettable family moments. Whether you visit in the warmth of summer or the chill of winter, South Korea’s climate accommodates all kinds of travel experiences. 4- Variety of accommodations Accommodations in South Korea range from traditional Korean houses (hanok) to luxurious international hotels, offering a variety of experiences to suit every traveler’s needs. For a truly immersive experience, families can stay in a hanok, which allows them to explore Korea’s traditional architecture and lifestyle. Alternatively, modern hotels and guesthouses cater to international travelers seeking comfort and convenience. Whether you’re looking for a high-end experience or a more authentic stay, South Korea offers options that cater to families of all preferences. 5. Kids-friendly attractions South Korea is packed with family-friendly attractions that cater specifically to children. Amusement parks such as Everland and Lotte World offer a wealth of exciting rides, parades, and themed attractions suitable for all ages. These parks also feature educational elements, combining fun with learning. Kids can dress up in traditional Korean hanbok, explore royal palaces, or visit museums like the Samsung Innovation Museum, which introduces young visitors to the world of technology through interactive exhibits. South Korea ensures that young travellers will have an enriching and exciting experience. 6- Public transportation South Korea is known for its efficient and affordable public transportation system. The subway systems in cities like Seoul are world-renowned for their punctuality, cleanliness, and ease of use. Travellers can easily navigate the city using a rechargeable T-money card, which works for both buses and subways. The transportation system’s ease of use and widespread accessibility make it incredibly convenient for families to travel around the country. For added convenience, taxis are also readily available, including luxury taxis for a more comfortable experience. 7- Korean shopping South Korea is a paradise for shoppers, offering everything from street markets to high-end malls. Myeongdong in Seoul is a bustling shopping district filled with fashionable boutiques, cosmetics stores, and street food vendors. For luxury shopping, districts like Gangnam feature high-end international brands and sleek modern malls. What sets South Korea apart is its combination of tradition and innovation—families can shop for both cutting-edge products and traditional Korean goods. K-beauty products, Korean fashion, and unique handicrafts are just some of the items you can discover while exploring the local shopping scene. 8- Delicious food Korean cuisine is a sensory experience that families can enjoy together. From spicy Tteokbokki (rice cakes) to savory hotteok (pancakes), Korean street food offers delicious flavors in every bite. Family-friendly restaurants serve a range of traditional dishes like bibimbap (mixed rice) and bulgogi (marinated beef), often accompanied by banchan, small side dishes that bring added variety to the meal. Food markets like Gwangjang Market and Jagalchi Fish Market provide an opportunity to savor authentic Korean delicacies while soaking in the vibrant atmosphere of local culture. 9- Medical and beauty tourism South Korea is a leading destination for medical tourism, offering high-quality healthcare services at competitive prices. The country is renowned for its expertise in cosmetic surgery, dermatology, and advanced medical procedures. For families seeking medical care or wellness treatments, South Korea’s hospitals are equipped with the latest technology and staffed by skilled professionals. Moreover, the country’s beauty industry—famous for its innovative skincare products and treatments—attracts many visitors looking to experience the best in self-care and rejuvenation. 10. Year-round festivities South Korea’s calendar is filled with vibrant festivals that celebrate the country’s rich cultural heritage. From the colorful Lantern Festival in the spring to the lively Dano Festival in the summer, there is always something exciting happening. In the fall, the Chuseok harvest festival brings families together to celebrate and share traditional foods, while the winter season lights up with festive events like the Seoul Christmas markets and the Jinju Namgang Yudeung Festival, where glowing lanterns light up the river. These festivals are an excellent way for families to immerse themselves in the culture and traditions of South Korea, with modern K-pop influences adding a dynamic edge to some of the celebrations. Related Story Qatar establishes WEF's Centre for Fourth Industrial Revolution Difi conference explores ways to support familiesA butterfly collector in Africa with more than 4.2 million seeks to share them for the future NAIROBI, Kenya (AP) — What began as a childhood hobby more than six decades ago has led to what might be Africa’s largest butterfly collection in a suburb of Kenya’s capital. Steve Collins has a collection of 4.2 million butterflies representing hundreds of species. Now, running out of space and time, he hopes to hand it over to the next generation. One expert familiar with Collins and his work suggests that the collection should be digitized for global access. Chess grandmaster Magnus Carlsen returns to a tournament after a dispute over jeans is resolved NEW YORK (AP) — Top ranked chess player Magnus Carlsen is headed back to the World Blitz Championship on Monday. That's after its governing body agreed to loosen a dress code that got him fined and denied a late-round game in another tournament for refusing to change out of jeans. The International Chess Federation president said in a statement Sunday that he’d let World Blitz Championship tournament officials consider allowing “appropriate jeans” with a jacket, as well as other "minor deviations” from the dress code. Carlsen quit the World Rapid and Blitz Chess Championships on Friday. He said Sunday he would play — and wear jeans — in the World Blitz Championship. 'Sonic 3' and 'Mufasa' battle for No. 1 at the holiday box office Two family films are dominating the holiday box office, with “Sonic the Hedgehog 3” winning the three-day weekend over “Mufasa” by a blue hair. According to studio estimates Sunday, the Sonic movie earned $38 million, while “Mufasa” brought in $37.1 million from theaters in the U.S. and Canada. The R-rated horror “Nosferatu” placed third with an unexpectedly strong $21.2 million. Thanksgiving release holdovers “Wicked” and “Moana 2” rounded out the top five. Christmas Day had several big film openings, including the Bob Dylan biopic “A Complete Unknown,” the Nicole Kidman erotic drama “Babygirl” and the boxing drama “The Fire Inside.” Charles Shyer, ‘Father of the Bride’ and ‘Baby Boom’ filmmaker, dies at 83 An Oscar-nominated writer and filmmaker known for classic comedies like “Private Benjamin,” “Baby Boom” and “Father of the Bride," Charles Shyer has died. He was 83. On Sunday his daughter Hallie Meyers-Shyer told The Associated Press that he died Friday in Los Angeles. No cause was disclosed. Born in Los Angeles in 1941 to a filmmaker father, Shyer's big breakthrough came with co-writing “Private Benjamin” for which he and Nancy Meyers received an Oscar nomination. He and Nancy Meyers were frequent collaborators through their nearly 20-year marriage, including on the remake of “The Parent Trap," starring Lindsay Lohan. LeBron James at 40: A milestone birthday arrives Monday for the NBA's all-time scoring leader When LeBron James broke another NBA record earlier this month, the one for most regular-season minutes played in a career, his Los Angeles Lakers teammates handled the moment in typical locker room fashion. They made fun of him. Dubbed The Kid from Akron, with a limitless future, James is now the 40-year-old from Los Angeles with wisps of gray in his beard, his milestone birthday coming Monday, one that will make him the first player in NBA history to play in his teens, 20s, 30s and 40s. He has stood and excelled in the spotlight his entire career. Belgium will ban sales of disposable e-cigarettes in a first for the EU BRUSSELS (AP) — Belgium will ban the sale of disposable electronic cigarettes as of Jan. 1 on health and environmental grounds in a groundbreaking move for European Union nations. Health minister Frank Vandenbroucke tells The Associated Press that the inexpensive e-cigarettes have turned into a health threat since they are an easy way for teenagers to be drawn into smoking and get hooked on nicotine. Australia outlawed the sale of “vapes” outside pharmacies earlier this year in some of the world’s toughest restrictions on electronic cigarettes. Now Belgium is leading the EU drive. Belgium's minister wants tougher tobacco measures in the 27-nation bloc. Charles Dolan, HBO and Cablevision founder, dies at 98 Charles F. Dolan, who founded some of the most prominent U.S. media companies including Home Box Office Inc. and Cablevision Systems Corp., has died at age 98. Newsday reports that a statement issued Saturday by his family says Dolan died of natural causes. Dolan’s legacy in cable broadcasting includes founding HBO in 1972, Cablevision in 1973 and the American Movie Classics television station in 1984. He also launched News 12 in New York City, the first U.S. 24-hour cable channel for local news. Dolan also held controlling stakes in companies that owned Madison Square Garden, Radio City Music Hall and the New York Knicks and New York Rangers sports franchises. Snoop's game: Snoop Dogg thrills the crowd in the bowl that bears his name TUCSON, Ariz. (AP) — Miami of Ohio beat Colorado State in the Arizona Bowl, but Snoop Dogg was the main attraction. The Snoop Dogg Arizona Bowl presented by Gin & Juice by Dre and Snoop was much a spectacle as a football game. Snoop Dogg seemed to be everywhere all at once, from a pregame tailgate to the postgame trophy presentation. Snoop Dog donned a headset on Colorado State's sideline, spent some time in the broadcast and even led both marching bands as conductor during their halftime performance. Snoop Dogg saved the best for last, rolling out in a light green, lowrider Chevy Impala with gold rims and accents, the shiny Arizona Bowl trophy in his hand as fans screamed his name. Mavs star Luka Doncic is latest pro athlete whose home was burglarized, business manager says DALLAS (AP) — Luka Doncic of the Dallas Mavericks is the latest professional athlete whose home has been burglarized. The star guard’s business manager tells multiple media outlets there was a break-in at Doncic’s home Friday night. Lara Beth Seager says nobody was home, and Doncic filed a police report. The Dallas Morning News reports that jewelry valued at about $30,000 was stolen. Doncic is the sixth known pro athlete in the U.S. whose home was burglarized since October. Star NFL quarterbacks Patrick Mahomes of Kansas City and Joe Burrow of Cincinnati are among them. The NFL and NBA have issued security alerts to players over the break-ins. Victor Wembanyama plays 1-on-1 chess with fans in New York Victor Wembanyama went to a park in New York City and played 1-on-1 with fans on Saturday. He even lost a couple of games. Not in basketball, though. Wemby was playing chess. Before the San Antonio Spurs left New York for a flight to Minnesota, Wembanyama put out the call on social media: “Who wants to meet me at the SW corner of Washington Square park to play chess? Im there,” Wembanyama wrote. It was 9:36 a.m. And people began showing up almost immediately.

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