wowjili con

wowjili con There is something I want to call early - I think the world is starting to heal itself. The green shoots started some time ago when middle Australia refused to be guilted into voting for the Voice referendum. Despite all the warm fuzziness and the crooning about modest invitations and the like, the Australian people instinctively knew they were being sold a pup by this campaign to insert race into the Constitution. The very notion that an extra layer of bureaucracy was going to improve health and education outcomes for kids in remote areas was laughable - but the purveyors of this drivel were so earnest in their delivery of it, I’m still unsure whether they were misguided or disingenuous. In Europe and the UK, we have seen farmers – the people who actually feed us – fight back against rampant and suffocating bureaucracy dreamt up by middling public servants who are more interested in achieving net-zero than in feeding the populace. As food prices continue to rise in developed nations while China pumps emissions into the atmosphere unabated, the realisation is setting in that everyday people in the West are the sacrificial lambs of this blinkered ideological pursuit which has no care for national security, the economy or living standards. The closing of the Tavistock clinic in the UK and the release of the Cass Report has signalled a rethink of experimental so-called “gender affirming care” for children suffering gender dysphoria. Finally, dissenting experts can again query medicine’s ability to solve teenagers’ troubles through life changing surgery. The results in the US presidential election seems like a shot of adrenalin in the healing process. Black and Hispanic men refused to be cowed by claims of misogyny for not voting for a black woman. Like other Americans, they chose to believe their own eyes that Kamala Harris – regardless of her skin colour – was an objectively hapless presidential candidate. The Republican slogan “Kamala is for they/them, Trump is for you” cut through the political discourse like a hot knife through butter. The Republicans shifted the focus from loud entitled minority groups back to everyday Americans and the notion of the collective “you” became as powerful as it was simple. Elsewhere across the trend driven corporate sphere, pronouns are slowly and quietly been deleted from email footers as the once precious virtue loses its sheen and is no longer worthy of being signalled. Even far-left democratic congresswoman, Alexandra Ocasio-Cortez has removed her she/her pronouns from her bio on X. Then the impossible happened: a white, blonde, blue-eyed European biological woman won Miss Universe. Imagine a person without a penis and an Adam’s apple winning a ‘Miss’ award. How retro. Vintage even. Like when your mum sent you to school dressed in a bonnet and a smock for Pioneer Day. I am eagerly awaiting the death knell of the era when blokes with frock fetishes think its ok to mansplain womanhood to us. It’s become a badge of honour to be called a TERF – a trans exclusionary radical feminist – as biological women push back to reclaim their sex-based rights and spaces. And energy. The narrative that renewables are cheaper because the sun is free is fast falling to pieces. Minister for Climate Change and Energy Chris Bowen still has that weird glint in his eye as he sends our energy security and affordability off a cliff. He either believes his own twaddle or he is surrounded by mindless sycophants who dare not tell him the truth. The precariousness of the energy sector in an energy-rich country like Australia is now so dire that gas is becoming fashionable again amongst the left as they have finally twigged that the lights go out without it. The discussion around nuclear continues to gain ground as people realise it is the only net-zero energy source stable enough to prevent sending our industry and living standards back to the dark ages. Then this week, the Australian Venues Co decided to ban the celebration of Australia Day in their pubs because January 26 apparently causes “sadness” and “hurt” for some staff and patrons. It’s their business, they can do what they want. But it appears, this pandering coterie from the lanyard class failed to take note of the backlash visited on Woolworths earlier in the year when it decided not to sell Australia Day paraphernalia in its stores. The revolt was immediate and harsh, including from Labor politicians who have eased up their attack on Australia Day since the Voice referendum tanked. And within hours, Australian Venues Co issued a grovelling apology claiming they didn’t intend to divide the community or offend anyone. The reality is they are just sorry they copped a bloody nose from an Australian public sick to the back teeth of being lectured to by corporate spivs genuflecting at the feet of each passing progressive fad. When will these people learn that there would be no need for a culture war if they would just stop undermining our culture? On a more practical level, if you are in the business of hospitality, perhaps it’s best not to alienate patrons who might want to go out for a cheerful bevy on a public holiday without a side serve of vacuous moralising. This idea could only have been dreamed up by some department of fluff which has never brushed passed a profit and loss statement - but the fact that it was approved suggests management doesn’t have its eye on core business. And lastly, isn’t it interesting to see the shift in the discussion around immigration in the West? Over the last decade it has been verboten to question immigration numbers and countries of origin for fear of being called a racist or xenophobe. But migration, particularly in the post-COVID era, has opened eyes and impacted social cohesion as infrastructure and culture both groan under the pressure of poorly conceived ‘open border’ policies. Government inflicted housing crises in many parts of the West has exposed incumbent governments as citizens unrepentantly question why immigration remains carelessly uncontained. Everyday people are angry and want answers. They feel left down. For years, sensible people have remained silent observers, watching the march of insidious progressive ideology, for fear of being called cruel names and getting cancelled. But it appears the penny has dropped. And if you want to retain your living standards, your culture and the freedoms that come with it, you must be prepared to fight for it. The backlash against government overreach and corporate hectoring and each victory for common sense, helps to turn the tide. As progressivism becomes increasingly insane, the fear of being cancelled recedes. And as we continue retake sensible ground, though the path may not be linear, the world will continue to heal. Caroline Di Russo is a lawyer with 15 years of experience specialising in commercial litigation and corporate insolvency and since February 2023 has been the Liberal Party President in Western Australia

PARIS — Howling winds couldn’t stop Notre Dame Cathedral ’s heart from beating again. People stand outside Notre-Dame Cathedral on Nov. 29 in Paris. With three resounding knocks on its doors by Paris Archbishop Laurent Ulrich, wielding a specially designed crosier carved from fire-scorched beams, the monument roared back to life Saturday evening. For the first time since a devastating blaze nearly destroyed it in 2019, the towering Gothic masterpiece reopened for worship, its rebirth marked by song, prayer, and awe beneath its soaring arches. The ceremony, initially planned to begin on the forecourt, was moved entirely inside due to unusually fierce December winds sweeping across the Île de la Cité, flanked by the River Seine. Yet the occasion lost none of its splendor. Inside the luminous nave, choirs sang psalms, and the cathedral’s mighty organ, silent for nearly five years, thundered to life in a triumphant interplay of melodies. People are also reading... Nebraska transportation director: Expressway system won't be done until 2042 27-year-old Beatrice man sentenced for May assault Shoplifting investigation leads to arrest for possession of controlled substance At the courthouse, Nov. 30, 2024 Nebraska football signing day preview: Potential flips and a 5-star up for grabs Gage County Sheriff's Office helps catch Fairbury suspect Mother to Mother supporting families Stabler scores 22 in Lady O's season opening win Beatrice company seeks to break China's stranglehold on rare-earth minerals Hospice foundation helps with extra support Orangemen open season with win over Nebraska City Holiday Lighted Parade happening Saturday Shatel: Emotions are still simmering, but Nebraska delivered the bottom line for 2024 — a bowl game Clarissa Ruh Missouri man sentenced for attempted sexual assault The vaulted ceiling of the Notre-Dame cathedral is seen Nov. 29 in Paris. The restoration, a spectacular achievement in just five years for a structure that took nearly two centuries to build, is seen as a moment of triumph for French President Emmanuel Macron, who championed the ambitious timeline — and a welcome respite from his domestic political woes. The evening’s celebration, attended by 1,500 dignitaries, including President-elect Donald Trump, US first lady Jill Biden, Britain’s Prince William, and Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy, underscored Notre Dame’s enduring role as both a spiritual and cultural beacon. Observers see the event as Macron's, and his intention to pivot it into a fully fledged diplomatic gathering, while highlighting France’s ability to unite on the global stage despite internal political crises. The crucial role of Notre-Dame's gargoyles when the cathedral caught fire in 2019 France's iconic Notre Dame Cathedral is formally reopening its doors on Saturday for the first time since a devastating fire nearly destroyed ... As the cathedral’s largest bell, the 13-ton Emmanuel — which was not named after the French leader — tolled into the Paris night, signaling the start of the ceremony, the crowd inside Notre Dame fell into an expectant hush. Emmanuel, a legacy of King Louis XIV, had rung through centuries of French history, and its peal now resonated as a call to witness another epochal moment. Outside the cathedral’s monumental doors, Ulrich raised his fire-scarred crosier. “Brothers and sisters, let us enter now into Notre Dame,” he declared. “It is she who accompanies us on our path to peace.” With the congregation of over 2,500 people watching in silence, Ulrich struck the floodlit doors, the base of his crosier reverberating against the wood. Inside, the choir answered with soaring hymns, their voices filling the nave. Illuminations on the cathedral facade heightened the drama. On the final strike, the heavy doors swung open, revealing the glowing interior of restored blond Lutetian limestone. Adding to the ceremony’s visual splendor, Ulrich and the clergy wore vibrant liturgical garments designed by French fashion designer Jean-Charles de Castelbajac. Known for his signature pop-art aesthetic, Castelbajac created 2,000 colorful pieces for 700 celebrants, blending modern elements with medieval touches. Flooded with light and song, the cathedral came alive in a moment of breathtaking spectacle. What had been a silent, soot-blackened ruin five years ago now blazed with renewed vitality, marking the culmination of a nearly $1 billion global effort to resurrect it. Speaking inside the cathedral, Macron expressed “gratitude” Saturday to those who saved, helped, and rebuilt Notre Dame, his voice reverberating through the nave. People gather near France's iconic Notre Dame Cathedral, hours before formally reopening its doors for the first time since a devastating fire nearly destroyed the 861-year-old landmark in 2019, on Saturday in Paris. “I stand before you ... to express the gratitude of the French nation,” he said, before voices flooded the space with song, harmonies not heard in over five years. “Tonight, the bells of Notre Dame are ringing again. And in a moment, the organ will awaken,” sending the “music of hope” cascading through the luminous interior to Parisians, France, and the world beyond, he said. The celebration is expected to give a much-needed boost to the embattled French leader, whose prime minister was ousted this week, plunging the nation’s politics into more turmoil. Macron has called Notre Dame’s reopening “a jolt of hope.” Observers say he hoped the occasion would briefly silence his critics and showcase France’s unity and resilience under his leadership — a rare moment of grace in a presidency now facing a grave crisis. Inside Notre Dame, 42,000 square meters of stonework—equivalent to six soccer pitches—gleamed anew, revealing intricate carvings and luminous limestone. Above, 2,000 oak beams, nicknamed “the forest,” restored the cathedral’s iconic spire and roof. The great organ, dormant for over five years, roared back to life like a slumbering giant. With its 7,952 pipes—ranging from pen-sized to torso-wide—and a renovated console featuring five keyboards, 115 stops, and 30 foot pedals, it responded to Archbishop Laurent Ulrich’s command: “Wake up, organ, sacred instrument.” Notre Dame's fabled grand organ reawakened at opening ceremony Notre Dame's thunderous great organ was heard in public for the first time since 2019 at the cathedral's reopening ceremony Saturday night. The first low rumble grew into a triumphant symphony as four organists pulled out the stops, weaving improvised responses to the archbishop’s invocations. Eight times, Ulrich addressed the organ; eight times, its voice filled the nave with breathtaking sound. Guests marveled at the spectacle, many capturing the moment on their phones. “It’s a sense of perfection,” said François Le Page of the Notre Dame Foundation, who last saw the cathedral cloaked in scaffolding in 2021. “It was somber then. Now, it’s night and day.” The Rev. Andriy Morkvas, a Ukrainian priest who leads the Volodymyr Le Grand church in Paris, reflected on his first visit to Notre Dame in over a decade. “I didn’t recognize it,” he said. “God is very powerful; He can change things.” He expressed hope that the cathedral’s revival could inspire peace in his homeland, drawing strength from the presence of Ukraine’s president. “I think that will have a big impact,” he said. “I hope Notre Dame and Mary will help us resolve this conflict.” The reopening of Notre Dame comes at a time of profound global unrest, with wars raging in Ukraine and the Middle East. For Catholics, Notre Dame’s rector said the cathedral “carries the enveloping presence of the Virgin Mary, a maternal and embracing presence.′′ “It is a magnificent symbol of unity,” Olivier Ribadeau Dumas said. “Notre Dame is not just a French monument — it is a magnificent sign of hope.” The international range of dignitaries coming to Paris underline the cathedral’s significance as a symbol of shared heritage and peace. Canadian visitor Noelle Alexandria, who had traveled to Paris for the reopening, was struck by the cathedral’s ability to inspire. “She’s been nearly ruined before, but she always comes back,” Alexandria said. “Not many of us could say the same after such tragedy, but Notre Dame can.” Guests entered through Notre Dame’s iconic western façade, whose arched portals adorned with biblical carvings were once a visual guide for medieval believers. Above the central Portal of the Last Judgment, the Archangel Michael is depicted weighing souls, as demons attempt to tip the scales. These stone figures, designed to inspire both awe and fear, set the stage for a ceremony steeped in history. Inside, the hum of hundreds of guests awaiting the service filled the cathedral with human sounds once more — a stark contrast to the construction din that echoed there for years. Tuners restoring the great organ often worked through the night to find the silence needed to perfect its 7,952 pipes, ranging from pen-sized to torso-wide. Notre Dame echoed to the sound of a sustained standing ovation after the showing of a short movie that documented the gargantuan rebuilding effort. Outside, the word “MERCI” — thank you — was projected against the cathedral’s iconic western facade. The movie showed the terrible wounds left by the inferno — the gaping holes torn into its vaulted ceilings and the burned roof. But that was followed by images of all types of artisans, many using traditional handicraft techniques, who collectively restored Notre Dame to look better now than ever. "We went from night to light," said one of the workers in the movie. Security will be high through the weekend, echoing measures taken during the Paris Olympics earlier this year. The Île de la Cité — the small island in the River Seine that is home to Notre Dame and the historic heart of Paris— is closed to tourists and non-residents. Police vans and barriers blocked cobblestoned streets in a large perimeter around the island, while soldiers in thick body armor and sniffer dogs patrolled embankments. A special security detail followed Trump. For many, Notre Dame’s rebirth is not just a French achievement but a global one — after the reopening, the cathedral is set to welcome 15 million visitors annually, up from 12 million before the fire. Photos: Notre Dame Cathedral unveils its new interior People stand outside Notre-Dame Cathedral in Paris, Friday Nov. 29 2024 before French President Emmanuel Macron's final visit to the construction site to see the restored interiors before the iconic monument's reopening for worship on Dec. 8. (Sarah Meyssonnier, Pool via AP) The tabernacle of Notre-Dame de Paris cathedral is seen while French President Emmanuel Macron visits the restored interiors of the monument, Friday Nov. 29, 2024, in Paris. (Stephane de Sakutin, Pool via AP) The vaulted ceiling of the Notre-Dame cathedral is seen while French President Emmanuel Macron visits the restored interiors of the monument, Friday, Nov. 29, 2024 in Paris. (Sarah Meyssonnier/Pool via AP) Windows in the heart of Notre-Dame de Paris cathedral are seen while French President Emmanuel Macron visits the restored interiors of the monument, Friday Nov. 29, 2024, in Paris. (Stephane de Sakutin, Pool via AP) People stroll in Notre-Dame de Paris cathedral while French President Emmanuel Macron visits the restored interiors the monument, Friday, Nov.29, 2024 in Paris. (Christophe Petit Tesson, Pool via AP) French President Emmanuel Macron, center, and his wife Brigitte Macron visit the restored interiors of the Notre-Dame de Paris cathedral, Friday, Nov.29, 2024 in Paris. (Christophe Petit Tesson, Pool via AP) French President Emmanuel Macron, third right, and his wife Brigitte Macron visit the restored interiors of the Notre-Dame de Paris cathedral, Friday, Nov.29, 2024 in Paris. (Christophe Petit Tesson, Pool via AP) People gather as French President Emmanuel Macron visits the renovated Notre Dame Cathedral Friday, Nov. 29, 2024 in Paris. (AP Photo/Michel Euler) French President Emmanuel Macron gestures as he visits the restored interiors of the Notre-Dame de Paris cathedral, Friday, Nov.29, 2024 in Paris. (Christophe Petit Tesson, Pool via AP) The nave, the western Rose window and the organ of Notre-Dame de Paris cathedral are seen while French President Emmanuel Macron visits the restored interiors of the monument, Friday Nov. 29, 2024, in Paris. (Stephane de Sakutin, Pool via AP) A man takes a picture of Notre Dame Cathedral as French President Emmanuel Macron visits the renovated cathedral, Friday, Nov. 29, 2024 in Paris. (AP Photo/Michel Euler) The nave of Notre-Dame de Paris cathedral is seen while French President Emmanuel Macron visits the restored interiors of the cathedral, Friday Nov. 29, 2024, in Paris. (Stephane de Sakutin, Pool via AP) People stroll in Notre-Dame de Paris cathedral while French President Emmanuel Macron visits the restored interiors the monument, Friday, Nov.29, 2024 in Paris. (Christophe Petit Tesson, Pool via AP) The South Rose stainglass window of Notre-Dame de Paris cathedral is seen while French President Emmanuel Macron visits the restored interiors of the cathedral, Friday Nov. 29, 2024, in Paris. (Stephane de Sakutin, Pool via AP) The South Rose stainglass window of Notre-Dame de Paris cathedral is seen while French President Emmanuel Macron visits the restored interiors of the cathedral, Friday Nov. 29, 2024, in Paris. (Stephane de Sakutin, Pool via AP) The nave of Notre-Dame de Paris cathedral is seen while French President Emmanuel Macron visits the restored interiors of the cathedral, Friday Nov. 29, 2024, in Paris. (Stephane de Sakutin, Pool via AP) Part of the nave and the organ of Notre-Dame de Paris cathedral are seen while French President Emmanuel Macron visits the restored interiors of the cathedral, Friday Nov. 29, 2024, in Paris. (Stephane de Sakutin, Pool via AP) The altar designed by French artist and designer Guillaume Bardet is seen in the heart of Notre-Dame de Paris cathedral while French President Emmanuel Macron visits the restored interiors of the monument, Friday Nov. 29, 2024, in Paris. (Stephane de Sakutin, Pool via AP) The altar designed by French artist and designer Guillaume Bardet is seen in the heart of Notre-Dame de Paris cathedral while French President Emmanuel Macron visits the restored interiors of the monument, Friday Nov. 29, 2024, in Paris. (Stephane de Sakutin, Pool via AP) The facade of Notre-Dame de Paris cathedral in Paris, is seen Friday Nov. 29, 2024, ahead of French President Emmanuel Macron's final visit to the construction site to see the restored interiors. (Stephane de Sakutin, Pool via AP) The facade of Notre-Dame Cathedral is seen in Paris, Friday Nov., 29 2024 ahead of French President Emmanuel Macron's final visit to the construction site to see the restored interiors before the iconic monument's reopening for worship on Dec. 8. (Christophe Petit Tesson, Pool via AP) Part of the facade of Notre-Dame Cathedral is seen in Paris, Friday Nov., 29 2024 ahead of French President Emmanuel Macron's final visit to the construction site to see the restored interiors before the iconic monument's reopening for worship on Dec. 8. (Christophe Petit Tesson, Pool via AP) People stand inside Notre-Dame Cathedral in Paris, Friday Nov. 29 2024 before French President Emmanuel Macron's final visit to the construction site to see the restored interiors before the iconic monument's reopening for worship on Dec. 8. (Sarah Meyssonnier, Pool via AP) Get local news delivered to your inbox!

The OP title paraphrases James Joyce's observation of Ireland in the early 20th century. While Ireland has high incomes today, it is outrageous that a majority of young people can't afford to buy a home despite a surplus of vacant sites, even in Dublin. On Newstalk's Pat Kenney morning show yesterday, the veteran economist Colm McCarthy mentioned that a major housing project on land the size of a farm in inner Dublin has unjustifiably been delayed for a decade with politicians from major political parties hypocritically objecting despite official party policies supposedly favouring housing development. He believes NIMBY objectors have far too much scope to object to housing projects on specious environmental objections, such as protection of species nobody heard of. Optimists could pin hopes for accelerated planning on the radical new planning act passed this year. But its radical changes could result in years of judicial reviews. Major questions arise on the powers of the revamped Bord Pleanala that is getting increased staffing to cope with heavy workloads. Similarly, the High Court is getting extra judges to cope with backlogs of planning cases. Compared to the billions annually in unnecessary housing costs caused by planning delays, the costs of staffing these bodies is tiny. Maybe many more judges should be appointed than just the few announced. The planning act introduces scope for councils to increase their input into planning. But since councillors depend heavily on the NIMBY home owner vote, will such input just add to planning objections as opposed to creative and constructive ideas? Given the general opposition of councils to broadly based housing projects, planning permissions should be decided at regional levels, though with council planners providing inputs. Regional planning boards could be staffed by councillors and council planners who could decide on the housing needs of the regions with far less pressure from NIMBYS and their barristers. This could make life easier for the revamped Bord Pleanala planning board which will continue to be viewed as a somewhat undemocratic institution. For the sake ofthe country's future, the dismal fact that a major share of the population are paying nearly half or more of their incomes in rent should be seen as a national emergancy. This is the major cause of low living standards and poverty. The resulting income and social inequality could give rise to extremist political parties as has been happening across the EU. Patslatt1 said: The OP title paraphrases James Joyce's observation of Ireland in the early 20th century. While Ireland has high incomes today, it is outrageous that a majority of young people can't afford to buy a home despite a surplus of vacant sites, even in Dublin. On Newstalk's Pat Kenney morning show yesterday, the veteran economist Colm McCarthy mentioned that a major housing project on land the size of a farm in inner Dublin has unjustifiably been delayed for a decade with politicians from major political parties hypocritically objecting despite official party policies supposedly favouring housing development. He believes NIMBY objectors have far too much scope to object to housing projects on specious environmental objections, such as protection of species nobody heard of. Optimists could pin hopes for accelerated planning on the radical new planning act passed this year. But its radical changes could result in years of judicial reviews. Major questions arise on the powers of the revamped Bord Pleanala that is getting increased staffing to cope with heavy workloads. Similarly, the High Court is getting extra judges to cope with backlogs of planning cases. Compared to the billions annually in unnecessary housing costs caused by planning delays, the costs of staffing these bodies is tiny. Maybe many more judges should be appointed than just the few announced. The planning act introduces scope for councils to increase their input into planning. But since councillors depend heavily on the NIMBY home owner vote, will such input just add to planning objections as opposed to creative and constructive ideas? Given the general opposition of councils to broadly based housing projects, planning permissions should be decided at regional levels, though with council planners providing inputs. Regional planning boards could be staffed by councillors and council planners who could decide on the housing needs of the regions with far less pressure from NIMBYS and their barristers. This could make life easier for the revamped Bord Pleanala planning board which will continue to be viewed as a somewhat undemocratic institution. For the sake ofthe country's future, the dismal fact that a major share of the population are paying nearly half or more of their incomes in rent should be seen as a national emergancy. This is the major cause of low living standards and poverty. The resulting income and social inequality could give rise to extremist political parties as has been happening across the EU. Click to expand... Ireland builds the most houses per capita in the EU. Putting all the emphasis on planning or needing to build more houses is missing the point. feedmelies said: Ireland builds the most houses per capita in the EU. Putting all the emphasis on planning or needing to build more houses is missing the point. Click to expand... Ireland needs to build way more housing to reduce the huge drag of housing costs on incomes and house the rapidly growing population. France builds quite a lot of housing per head. Why is it outrageous? Lots of middle-aged people who failed to get on the property ladder can't afford to buy either. Some handed back keys post the property crash, some, like myself, kept getting priced out and then due to the crash couldn't get a mortgage. I never see anyone giving a rat's arse about us, or wondering what will happen to us, or what kind of burden we will be on the state as we get older. Are any of these proposed new housing units going to have special mortgage arrangements for first-time buyers in their fifties? I doubt it. My sympathy for people in their 30s who have the option of living with their parents in order to save money to buy a home is limited and something I'd have given my eye teeth to have had. But for once I agree with your substantial point as you seem to have finally got with the programme that the housing issue in this country has always been about planning, zoning, and keeping the cost of land artificially high. If they fixed that, I could buy a small plot of land, install a prefabricated house for a fraction of the cost, and be a burden to no-one.

By Elizabeth Ayoola, NerdWallet The investing information provided on this page is for educational purposes only. NerdWallet, Inc. does not offer advisory or brokerage services, nor does it recommend or advise investors to buy or sell particular stocks, securities or other investments. Kids are often pretty good at being consumers. If you’re a parent with a small business, you have the opportunity to show your kids firsthand what it means to be a producer. Small Business Saturday, which takes place on Nov. 30 this year, may be a great time to do just that. Small Business Saturday was established by American Express in 2010 and encourages consumers to patronize their local stores as a way to keep dollars circulating within their community. Here are three reasons you should consider getting your kids involved in Small Business Saturday, according to two mompreneurs. Ronne Brown is the owner of HERLISTIC, a plant-derived beauty and feminine care brand in Washington, D.C. She’s been participating in Small Business Saturday since she established her business in 2020. The entrepreneur gets her kids (ages 24, 18 and 12), plus her bonus daughter, 10, to help out on Small Business Saturday and beyond. Brown’s kids help with customer service, shipping and fulfillment tasks. That could include counting inventory, quality control or packaging boxes. Other times, help looks like Brown’s 12-year-old daughter keeping her up-to-date with TikTok trends and influencers in the beauty field. “I just want them to understand the price and the value of a dollar and what it actually costs to make it,” Brown says. The mompreneur also hopes her kids learn the benefits of commitment and hard work. “What I want to show them is that you have to work hard every day. And there are gonna be moments where you’re gonna be tired, you’re gonna be exhausted, and you’re not gonna want to do things, and you’re going to have to push through,” she says. Hiring your kids to do legitimate work during Small Business Saturday provides a chance for them to learn pillars needed for a strong financial foundation: earning money , saving money and investing. That said, before hiring kids, it’s critical to understand the child labor laws for your state in addition to the IRS’ rules around hiring kids. Brown says she pays all of her children, including her 24-year-old son who is on payroll. Additionally, she teaches them about investing in the stock market. “I want them to understand the importance of making money, but also investing the money that they’re making,” she says. “Because when I pay them, I always ask them, ‘so what are you gonna do to double this money?’” If you hire your minor kids, they could get a headstart on investing by putting some of their income into a custodial Roth IRA , which requires earned income to open. You could also open them a custodial brokerage account. Another perk of your kids earning income by working for you is that they may be exempt from paying federal income taxes if they earn less than the standard deduction . In 2024, that threshold is $14,600. Having your kids add helping hands, whether it be doing administrative tasks or helping customers, can ensure you keep up with a potential increase in sales. A 2024 NerdWallet holiday spending report found that 16% of 2024 holiday shoppers plan to shop on Small Business Saturday this year. Lisset Tresvant, owner of Glow Esthetics Spa in Hollywood, Florida, has been participating in Small Business Saturday since the genesis of her business in 2019. “I do tend to sell more because people are usually more inclined to purchase because of the sales, and it gives them a reason to support us,” she says. To help with the demand, Tresvant’s daughter, 12, and son, 9, fill her skincare products, add labels and help prep items for shipping. Tresvant says she decided to let her kids get involved in her business so they have a better understanding of what she does. Looking beyond Small Business Saturday, hiring your child can also help with succession planning , which is about planning for your departure from your business. Tresvant hopes to pass hers down to her kids one day. “They understand that I’m building this legacy just for not myself, but for them as well,” says Tresvant. More From NerdWallet Elizabeth Ayoola writes for NerdWallet. Email: eayoola@nerdwallet.com. The article 3 Reasons to Involve Your Kids in Small Business Saturday originally appeared on NerdWallet .

Ranchi, Nov 23 (PTI) In a stunning comeback, Hemant Soren’s JMM-led alliance on Saturday stormed to power in Jharkhand for a second consecutive term, winning 56 seats in the 81-member assembly, despite an all-out blitz by the BJP-led NDA which managed only 24 seats. The majority mark in the state assembly is 41 seats. The BJP was confident that it could turn the tide in its favour through an aggressive campaign that targeted CM Soren’s leadership, and raised issues like “infiltration” from Bangladesh and the government’s alleged “corruption.” Though the BJP failed to replicate the Maharashtra triumph, where it secured a landslide, its vote share in the eastern state was more than the JMM. The BJP contested 68 seats and registered a 33.18 per cent vote share as compared to JMM’s 23.44 per cent. The BJP won 21 seats and emerged as the second largest party. JMM contested 43 seats and won 34, the highest-ever seats won by the party. The Congress got 16 seats, RJD 4 and the CPI (ML) secured 2 seats in the INDIA bloc. The aggressive BJP campaign by its top brass, including Union Home Minister Amit Shah, failed to resonate in front of the ‘Adivasi’ card played by the JMM, which also sought the people’s sympathy over the arrest of chief minister Soren. The JMM’s campaign also focused on promises of welfare schemes and accused the BJP-led Centre of using the ED and CBI as tools against rival parties. Both Hemant Soren and his wife Kalpana managed to create a wave of sympathy among the tribal electorate, and despite the anti-incumbency sentiment, the BJP failed to capitalise on it, according to poll analysts. Soren, who retained the Barhait seat by defeating BJP’s Gamliyel Hembrom by a margin of 39,791 votes, had to resign as the CM in January before being arrested by the ED in a money laundering case. He was released on bail by the high court in June, and in July, he returned as the chief minister of the state, replacing Champai Soren. In his first reaction to the poll outcome, Soren termed the INDIA bloc’s strong performance in the Jharkhand elections as a “passing of the exam of democracy.” “I express my gratitude to the people for this stupendous performance,” he said. Assam chief minister and Jharkhand BJP election co-in-charge Himanta Biswa Sarma described the BJP’s loss as “painful.” Sarma aggressively campaigned against the JMM and accused it of sheltering “infiltrators”. “The loss in Jharkhand is deeply painful for me personally, even though we secured victory in all five by-elections in Assam,” Sarma said. Internal bickering within the BJP, especially over nominations for turncoats, seemed to have further hampered the party’s prospects. The RJD also made a surprise showing, winning four of the six seats it contested. The CPI(ML) Liberation secured two out of four seats. The LJP (Ram Vilas) won its lone contested seat, and the JD(U) won one of the two seats it fought. The AJSU party, which contested 10 seats, was almost wiped out, retaining only one seat in Mandu by a slender margin of 231 votes. Its leader, Sudesh Mahto, lost the Sili seat. Soren’s wife, Kalpana, who played a key role in revitalising the JMM following her husband’s arrest, won from Gandey by a margin of 17,142 votes defeating BJP’s Muniya Devi. Kalpana won the seat in a bypoll on June 4 this year after it fell vacant following the resignation of JMM MLA Sarfaraz Ahmad. Kalpana’s political journey, which was never her initial choice, began in earnest after her husband’s arrest by the ED in connection with a money laundering case. Despite the personal and political challenges posed by her husband’s legal battles, Kalpana has proven to be a resilient and dynamic leader. Another key plank of the BJP’s campaign was the removal of Champai Soren as chief minister shortly after Hemant Soren’s release on bail in June. The BJP framed this as an issue of how a tribal leader had been insulted by the JMM-led coalition. Hemant Soren also accused the BJP of spending over Rs 500 crore on “malicious campaigns” against him. JMM’s populist schemes like Maiyan Samman Yojna, which provides financial assistance of Rs 1,000 to women in the 18-50 years age bracket and promises to increase it to Rs 2,500 post results, went well with the masses across the state. Soren waived farm loans up to Rs 2 lakh aimed at benefiting over 1.75 lakh farmers. Additionally, his government waived outstanding electricity bills and introduced a scheme providing free electricity for up to 200 units besides introducing welfare schemes like a universal pension. Babulal Marandi, state BJP president, won the Dhanwar seat by 35,438 votes, and former CM Champai Soren won in Seraikela by 20,447 votes. However, Leader of Opposition Amar Kumar Bauri faced a crushing defeat in Chandankiyari, losing by 33,733 votes. The elections recorded a voter turnout of 67.74%, the highest since the state’s formation in 2000. In 2019, the JMM-led alliance won 47 seats, snatching power from the BJP. JMM had won 30 seats, while Congress bagged 16, apart from the one seat bagged by the RJD. The BJP had secured 25 seats, JVM-P three, AJSU Party two, and CPI-ML and NCP one each, besides two Independents emerging victorious. PTI NAM SAN BDC SBN SOM RBT BDC NN RG MNB ACD This report is auto-generated from PTI news service. ThePrint holds no responsibility for its content. var ytflag = 0;var myListener = function() {document.removeEventListener('mousemove', myListener, false);lazyloadmyframes();};document.addEventListener('mousemove', myListener, false);window.addEventListener('scroll', function() {if (ytflag == 0) {lazyloadmyframes();ytflag = 1;}});function lazyloadmyframes() {var ytv = document.getElementsByClassName("klazyiframe");for (var i = 0; i < ytv.length; i++) {ytv[i].src = ytv[i].getAttribute('data-src');}} Save my name, email, and website in this browser for the next time I comment. Δ document.getElementById( "ak_js_1" ).setAttribute( "value", ( new Date() ).getTime() );November 23, 2024 (SINJAH) – The Sudanese army announced on Saturday it had retaken the strategic city of Sinjah, the capital of Sennar state, from the paramilitary Rapid Support Forces (RSF) after fierce fighting. Thousands of residents celebrated the liberation of Sinjah, which had been under RSF control since June. Similar celebrations erupted in Al Hawata, a city in Gedaref state where many had sought refuge from the fighting. The army released a video on social media showing its troops inside the headquarters of the 17th Infantry Division in Sinjah. “The armed forces and other regular forces are inside the 17th Infantry Division headquarters in Sinjah,” the army said in a statement. “We are on the path to completely cleansing the homeland of the terrorist RSF militia.” Military sources told Sudan Tribune that the army had secured all entry and exit points to Sinjah after intense battles involving drones and artillery strikes. Following the capture of Sinjah, the army advanced towards areas east of the city, including Al Dali, Al Mazmoum, and Abu Hajar. The army’s recapture of Sinjah comes after a concerted effort to mobilize forces from Al Dinder, Al Suki, Sennar, and Blue Nile. Troops slowly advanced towards the city, retaking towns and villages along the way. The army congratulated the Sudanese people on the liberation of Sinjah and the 17th Infantry Division. “We dedicate this victory to our people who have suffered killing, displacement, oppression, looting, and all kinds of atrocities from the militia of the Hemeti family,” the army said, referring to RSF leader Mohamed Hamdan Daglo, also known as Hemetti. Government spokesman and Information Minister Khalid Al-Awais said in a statement that the recapture of Sinjah reflects the resilience of the Sudanese people and their armed forces. “This steadfastness confirms that the people and their forces are on a date with achieving more victories that will restore security and stability to the country,” he said. Al-Awais added that a “moment of justice and accountability is coming” for those who committed crimes during the conflict. The army’s capture of Sinjah follows its successful operation in October to cut off RSF supply lines by taking control of the Moya Mountains, where the RSF had established a key base.Russia security chief meets Taleban officials

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Alexa's without fanfare and, in particular, without the major AI update we were . Now, though, as Amazon invests over $4b (on top of a +) in Claude AI maker Anthropic, the question becomes more urgent: What is Amazon's AI strategy, and when will consumers and their get the long-promised AI update? More pertinently, could that change ultimately be Claude in disguise? Amazon announced the and characterized it as a deepening "strategic collaboration." It is a two-way street in that Anthropic is set to use the vast Amazon Web Services server army as its "primary training partner." That's a big deal because one of the key stumbling blocks for these fast-developing generative AI platforms and large language models (LLM) is the processing power needed to train them. , , has made a huge business out of this. Anthropic, still a startup, needs a tech giant like Amazon to back its AI aspirations. It is, though, the other side of the deal that interests me and likely interests most consumers, and that's Amazon's growing investment in the Anthropic AI platform, specifically Claude models. Currently, they're underpinning much of the cloud-based AI Amazon provides to partners through its Amazon Bedrock platform. The missing connection, or at least not spelled out, is how this might affect Alexa, which doesn't even warrant a mention in Amazon's blog post. Still waiting on Alexa AI Launched a decade ago alongside the Echo, Alexa was not the first digital assistant, but most regarded it as better than the first mover, Siri. Echo's instant popularity and pervasiveness in the home meant that millions of people who had never talked to a digital assistant were soon engaged with something that at least sounded like a basic AI . Today's Alexa is generations behind leading chatbots like , Gemini, Claude, and Copilot. This is even though Amazon demonstrated a far more intelligent and conversational The absence of any Alexa mention in the Anthropic news leads me to believe somewhat counterintuitively that the next Alexa AI will be powered almost entirely by Claude. This will start, I think, with Amazon finally buying Anthropic. I know, it doesn't have to; has gotten away with holding firmly at 's length, pouring in money, and getting first dibs on the best stuff without making it an official Microsoft brand. Anthropic and Claude do not have the brand cache of OpenAI and ChatGPT. Alexa is the bigger and more interesting brand, so why not make Anthropic part of Amazon and Claude the true brains of one of the best-known and most widely used digital assistants on the planet? I've asked Amazon to comment on the progress of Alexa AI and how Claude might factor in but have yet to hear back. In the meantime, I asked Claude, "Will you power the next version of Amazon Alexa?" As is often the case with these generative AI chatbots, the answer arrived swiftly: When I asked Alexa the same question, it cited the Reuters report from August: At least Alexa knows which way the wind is blowing. Now, we just have to wait for Amazon to confirm and then finally deliver the Alexa AI we all deserve.‘Gladiator II’ review: Are you not moderately entertained?Starmer says ‘bulging benefits bill’ is ‘blighting our society’

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