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NoneTEHRAN — Iran has unequivocally condemned the recent terrorist bombing in Kabul, which claimed the lives of several individuals, including Khalil Haqqani, the acting Minister for Refugees and Repatriation in Afghanistan's interim government. In a statement issued on Thursday, Esmail Baqaei, the spokesperson for Iran's Ministry of Foreign Affairs, expressed profound sorrow and extended heartfelt condolences to the families of the victims. He emphasized the importance of a united front against terrorism, stating, "Iran stands in solidarity with Afghanistan during this tragic time." The attack, which took place on Wednesday, has been attributed to ISIS, with the Islamic State – Khorasan Province (IS-KP) claiming responsibility. Reports indicate that a terrorist detonated explosives outside the Ministry of Refugees and Repatriation building as Haqqani was leaving his office. The Taliban, who currently govern Afghanistan, have accused ISIS of orchestrating the assassination, labeling it a "cowardly attack." The incident has also attracted widespread condemnation from neighboring countries and the international community. Pakistani Foreign Minister Ishaq Dar condemned the attack, asserting, "Pakistan unequivocally condemns terrorism in all its forms and manifestations." Similarly, Qatar's foreign ministry denounced the assassination, reiterating Doha's rejection of violence, terrorism, and criminal acts. This attack represents one of the most significant losses for the Taliban leadership in recent years, particularly as multiple members of the Haqqani clan hold high-ranking positions within the interim government. Khalil Haqqani's brother, Jalaluddin, was a prominent guerrilla leader who fought against Soviet troops in Afghanistan during the 1980s, and also played a pivotal role in orchestrating many attacks throughout the Taliban's 20-year insurgency against the U.S. Currently, Sirajuddin Haqqani, the son of Jalaluddin and nephew of Khalil Haqqani, holds the position of interior minister in the Taliban government. In recent years, ISIS has escalated its activities in Afghanistan, orchestrating numerous attacks on both military and civilian targets, challenging regional stability and security.90jili game club download 。

Amid divisions, Kurds pursue unified representation in post-Assad SyriaShares of S&P Global Inc. .css-321ztr-OverridedLink.css-321ztr-OverridedLink:any-link{-webkit-text-decoration:none;text-decoration:none;color:rgba(54,119,168,1);border-bottom:1px solid;border-bottom-color:rgba(54,119,168,1);}.css-321ztr-OverridedLink.css-321ztr-OverridedLink:any-link.css-321ztr-OverridedLink.css-321ztr-OverridedLink:any-link svg{fill:rgba(54,119,168,1);}.css-321ztr-OverridedLink.css-321ztr-OverridedLink:any-link:hover{-webkit-text-decoration:none;text-decoration:none;color:rgba(47,112,157,1);border-bottom:1px solid;border-bottom-color:rgba(47,112,157,1);}.css-321ztr-OverridedLink.css-321ztr-OverridedLink:any-link:hover.css-321ztr-OverridedLink.css-321ztr-OverridedLink:any-link:hover svg{fill:rgba(47,112,157,1);} .css-1vykwuz-OverridedLink{display:inline;color:var(--color-interactiveLink010);-webkit-text-decoration:underline;text-decoration:underline;}@media screen and (prefers-reduced-motion: no-preference){.css-1vykwuz-OverridedLink{transition-property:color,fill;transition-duration:200ms,200ms;transition-timing-function:cubic-bezier(0, 0, .5, 1),cubic-bezier(0, 0, .5, 1);}}@media screen and (prefers-reduced-motion: reduce){.css-1vykwuz-OverridedLink{transition-property:color,fill;transition-duration:0ms;transition-timing-function:cubic-bezier(0, 0, .5, 1),cubic-bezier(0, 0, .5, 1);}}.css-1vykwuz-OverridedLink svg{fill:var(--color-interactiveLink010);}.css-1vykwuz-OverridedLink:hover:not(:disabled){color:var(--color-interactiveLink020);-webkit-text-decoration:underline;text-decoration:underline;}.css-1vykwuz-OverridedLink:hover:not(:disabled) svg{fill:var(--color-interactiveLink020);}.css-1vykwuz-OverridedLink:active:not(:disabled){color:var(--color-interactiveLink030);-webkit-text-decoration:underline;text-decoration:underline;}.css-1vykwuz-OverridedLink:active:not(:disabled) svg{fill:var(--color-interactiveLink030);}.css-1vykwuz-OverridedLink:visited:not(:disabled){color:var(--color-interactiveVisited010);-webkit-text-decoration:underline;text-decoration:underline;}.css-1vykwuz-OverridedLink:visited:not(:disabled) svg{fill:var(--color-interactiveVisited010);}.css-1vykwuz-OverridedLink:visited:hover:not(:disabled){color:var(--color-interactiveVisited010);-webkit-text-decoration:underline;text-decoration:underline;}.css-1vykwuz-OverridedLink:visited:hover:not(:disabled) svg{fill:var(--color-interactiveVisited010);}.css-1vykwuz-OverridedLink:focus-visible:not(:disabled){outline-color:var(--outlineColorDefault);outline-style:var(--outlineStyleDefault);outline-width:var(--outlineWidthDefault);outline-offset:var(--outlineOffsetDefault);}@media not all and (min-resolution: 0.001dpcm){@supports (-webkit-appearance: none) and (stroke-color: transparent){.css-1vykwuz-OverridedLink:focus-visible:not(:disabled){outline-style:var(--safariOutlineStyleDefault);}}}.css-1vykwuz-OverridedLink.css-1vykwuz-OverridedLink:any-link{-webkit-text-decoration:none;text-decoration:none;color:rgba(54,119,168,1);border-bottom:1px solid;border-bottom-color:rgba(54,119,168,1);}.css-1vykwuz-OverridedLink.css-1vykwuz-OverridedLink:any-link.css-1vykwuz-OverridedLink.css-1vykwuz-OverridedLink:any-link svg{fill:rgba(54,119,168,1);}.css-1vykwuz-OverridedLink.css-1vykwuz-OverridedLink:any-link:hover{-webkit-text-decoration:none;text-decoration:none;color:rgba(47,112,157,1);border-bottom:1px solid;border-bottom-color:rgba(47,112,157,1);}.css-1vykwuz-OverridedLink.css-1vykwuz-OverridedLink:any-link:hover.css-1vykwuz-OverridedLink.css-1vykwuz-OverridedLink:any-link:hover svg{fill:rgba(47,112,157,1);} SPGI inched 0.07% higher to $522.87 Monday, on what proved to be an all-around mixed trading session for the stock market, with the S&P 500 Index SPX rising 0.24% to 6,047.15 and the Dow Jones Industrial Average DJIA falling 0.29% to 44,782.00. S&P Global Inc. closed $10.42 short of its 52-week high ($533.29), which the company reached on October 15th.

LAHORE: The Pakistan Cricket Board (PCB) has appointed Sumair Ahmad Syed, Chief Operating Officer of the PCB, as the Tournament Director for the ICC Champions Trophy 2025, scheduled to take place in Pakistan from February 19 to March 9. PCB Chair Mohsin Naqvi said, “Sumair is an exceptionally organised professional with a wealth of administrative expertise. Coupled with his unwavering passion for cricket, I am confident he will deliver an unforgettable ICC Champions Trophy 2025 for players, officials and fans alike.” He stated that the ICC Champions Trophy 2025 promises to showcase Pakistan’s ability to host world-class cricketing events, welcoming players and fans from around the globe to experience the country’s passion for the game and renowned hospitality. “This tournament marks a historic milestone as the biggest sporting event in Pakistan’s recent history. With Sumair leading the way, the global cricket community can rest assured that the event will meet the highest standards of excellence synonymous with Pakistan,” Mohsin Naqvi said.Sumair said that he is committed to working closely with them as well as the International Cricket Council, leaving no stone unturned to exceed the benchmarks set by previous ICC Champions Trophy editions. Copyright Business Recorder, 2024Are you tracking your health with a device? Here’s what could happen with the dataStrictly Come Dancing's Dianne Buswell was visibly moved to tears on the spin-off show It Takes Two. The emotional moment came during Friday night's final episode of It Takes Two, as hosts Fleur East and Janette Manrara recapped the journey of this year's finalists and welcomed the contestants into the studio to discuss their final dances. Dianne, who is partnered with comedian Chris McCausland in the current series, couldn't contain her emotions after watching a montage of their time on the show. Following the touching video, Janette paused the interview to offer tissues to both Dianne and Chris as tears streamed down the dancer's face. Overwhelmed, Dianne expressed her gratitude towards Chris, saying, "Chris has taught me so much. Mostly about honesty. He's the most honest man I've ever met. He wears his heart on his sleeve, and he's taught me just to be myself." Dianne Buswell was left in floods of tears (Image: BBC) Read More Related Articles BBC Strictly Come Dancing's Vito Coppola and Sarah Hadland declare love just before final Read More Related Articles BBC Strictly Come Dancing's Pete Wicks declares love after sweet tribute - but it's not to Maura Higgins She continued to reflect on the lessons she learned from Chris, adding: "I think you put a lot of pressure on yourself to be this perfect dancer or this perfect person. Chris has just brought out of me something that not many people can," reports the Mirror . Emphasising the value of effort over perfection, she said, "Just giving it your best go, and it doesn't matter if things are perfect like I said before on here. Things can be beautiful without the perfectionism of things." Janette then interjected, reminding them that "winning isn't everything," a sentiment Dianne concurred with. Reflecting on his own experience, Chris shared, "It's just been way more than I thought it would be." Dianne and Chris shared their experience throughout this year's show (Image: BBC) Chris made history on Strictly by becoming the first blind contestant. He's quickly become a beloved fan favourite . After watching Chris with Dianne on It Takes Two, a fan went onto social media and expressed enthusiasm, saying, "The truly wonderful Chris and Dianne for the win... they will, 100%, be getting all my votes." Another supporter was confident in their victory: "Chris and Dianne will win so the others might as well go home now. Either way I'll be happy for him as he's brilliant." And a third viewer praised Chris's journey: "Chris did not have # Strictly on his radar, but now he is in the final. Dianne is now in her second final in a row. The waltz was emotional and Couple's Choice is showmanship and selling it more. The showdance is high energy but ballroom!" It Takes Two is available to watch on BBC IPlayer.

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I had a few merry evenings playing Escape Simulator back in 2022. Of the co-op escape room games I've played, it was the best, both in terms of its relatively neutral framing (with little heavyhanded storytelling) and its pretty solid puzzle design. The game was expanded in the time since with a versus mode and several crossover DLC, and now there comes a sequel. Escape Simulator 2 will explore "darker escape room themes", looks visually more detailed, and comes with a new editor for those who wish to design their own escape rooms. Why a sequel, when the original was already being so regularly updated? "A sequel gives us a fresh start and lets us push the limits of the genre further," says the Steam page . "We were inspired to explore darker escape room themes and experiment with new gameplay and puzzle ideas. Splitting from the original game let us focus on improving key features like rendering, networking, physics, and animations." I'm not really sure what "darker" means in the context of solving silly pattern matching puzzles with my pals, but Pine Studio also clarify that although "darker and has a more mysterious vibe, it's not a horror game." It does not feature "any jump scares or gore." Good! That's not what I play these games for. I play them for the feeling of inferiority that comes from having my co-op mates solve all the puzzles faster than I can. The original Escape Simulator came with a toolkit with which community members made many, many escape rooms of their own. The sequel follows suit, but promises that Room Editor 2.0 will be "more powerful and intuitive", with fewer restrictions when compared the way they make the official rooms. There's no release date yet, but some of the locations at launch include Dracula's castle, a starship stranded after a collision, and a pirate ship. Until you can escape those you might like to try the original, and it's currently 50% reduced on Steam - and it ain't exactly pricey to begin with.

Kigali : Rwanda has published the fifth Strategic Plan for Agriculture Transformation (PSTA5) in the Rwandan capital of Kigali to build resilient, sustainable agri-food systems. The ambitious plan, themed Building Resilient and Sustainable Agri-Food Systems , serves as a blueprint for transforming the agriculture sector to achieve food security, sustainable land use, and economic development, Xinhua news agency reported. Speaking at the launch Friday, Minister of Agriculture and Animal Resources Mark Cyubahiro Bagabe emphasised the transformative potential of PSTA5, calling it a unique approach to agricultural development. "PSTA5 is unique because it is centered on agri-food systems-that is the central pivot," he said. Bagabe urged Rwanda's youth to play a pivotal role in implementing the plan, highlighting the integration of advanced technologies such as the Internet of Things and artificial intelligence. "When you talk about using technology tools like the Internet of Things and AI to move agriculture forward, I can tell you we are together. I see young people as the pillar of productivity," he said. He also stressed the importance of translating the strategy into tangible results. "We must chip into this strategic plan and ensure this blueprint is translated into actions," he added. Bagabe also emphasised that the success of the strategy lies in collective action to ensure resilient, sustainable, and equitable agri-food systems for all. PSTA5 focuses on modernising agriculture and animal resource production, fostering inclusive markets, and creating jobs within agriculture and food systems. The five-year strategy aims to address pressing challenges such as low productivity, food insecurity, and limited commercialisation in the sector while enhancing resilience to climate shocks like droughts and floods. It aligns with national priorities and global frameworks, including the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs). PSTA5 incorporates lessons from its predecessor, PSTA4, which made significant progress in areas such as marshland development, agroforestry, and irrigation infrastructure. Challenges like climate change and limited investment in agriculture, however, persist, necessitating further innovation and funding. The expected impact of PSTA5 is transformative. The plan targets an average annual agricultural growth rate of 6.5 per cent, increasing export revenues to 1.54 billion US dollars and creating over 644,000 off-farm jobs in agri-food systems, according to the Ministry of Agriculture and Animal Resources. The strategy also aims to empower 72 per cent of women in agriculture and improve food and nutrition security nationwide. With the launch of PSTA5, Rwanda has reaffirmed its commitment to driving inclusive and sustainable agricultural development. Rwanda's agricultural sector remains vital to the country's economy, with about 69 per cent of households engaged in farming and around 400,000 people employed in agri-food systems, according to the Fifth Population and Housing Census (2022).

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Maher, 28, helped the USA to a bronze medal at this summer's Olympic Games in Paris and is the sport's most popular player on social media. "This is a huge coup to be able to bring Ilona Maher to Bristol Bears on a short-term deal," Bristol head coach Dave Ward said. "She is one of the biggest names in women's sport, let alone rugby, and we believe she will add real value to our programme on and off the field." Last week Maher finished second on US television show "Dancing with the Stars", and she was on the cover of Sports Illustrated's swimsuit edition in July. Maher has signed a three-month deal with Bristol ahead of the World Cup, which starts in England in August. She made her 15-a-side debut for the USA in 2021. "I am excited to join the Bristol Bears and put myself in the best position to earn a spot to represent USA in the 2025 Rugby World Cup alongside such a talented and driven group as the Bears," Maher said in a club statement. Bristol's first game next month is on January 4 against local rivals and Premiership Women's Rugby champions Gloucester-Hartpury, in a repeat of last season's final. obo/iwd/mwNone

( MENAFN - EIN Presswire) How to Get Security Contracts Discover actionable strategies to secure government and private sector security contracts through proven methods and USPA's Certified Contractor Program. NEW YORK, NY, UNITED STATES, December 26, 2024 /EINPresswire / -- As 2025 approaches, security contractors are exploring how to capitalize on evolving opportunities in government and private sector contracts. With key legislative changes, such as the National Defense Authorization Act (NDAA) FY24, reshaping the landscape, now is the time to act. USPA, a leader in the security industry , provides the tools, expertise, and financial support that contractors need to succeed. Legislative Updates Pave the Way for Small Business Success The NDAA FY24 introduces significant changes designed to empower small businesses, including those in the security sector. Highlights include enhanced inflation relief measures, faster payment protocols, and expanded small business participation requirements. For service-disabled veteran-owned small businesses (SDVOSBs), participation goals have risen from 3% to 5%, creating more opportunities for firms to win lucrative contracts. However, navigating the government procurement process isn't without challenges. Contractors must adhere to stringent compliance requirements, such as conflict-of-interest certifications, detailed documentation, and adherence to government timelines. For many small firms, the complexity and financial strain of waiting for payment under traditional net terms-often 30, 60, or even 90 days-can make pursuing government contracts seem unattainable. How USPA Helps Contractors Secure Contracts and Maintain Cash Flow This is where USPA steps in to bridge the gap. Through its Certified Contractor Program , USPA takes the risk out of long payment cycles. Unlike traditional contracts, where payment delays can cripple cash flow, USPA ensures its partners are paid weekly. In fact, payments are processed just one day after invoices are submitted. This rapid turnaround gives smaller firms the financial stability they need to grow and invest in their operations. “USPA's Certified Contractor Program has been empowering security contractors for 20 years,” said Michael Evans, Founder of USPA.“We understand the challenges small businesses face, and we're here to provide the financial and operational support they need to thrive in this competitive industry.” Balancing Government and Private Sector Contracts While government contracts offer stability and long-term opportunities, private sector contracts provide flexibility and faster execution. USPA helps contractors navigate both spaces by offering guidance on compliance, technology integration, and proposal development. By partnering with USPA, firms can pursue both government and private contracts confidently, knowing their cash flow and operational needs are secure. Strategies for Securing Contracts in 2025 USPA's Certified Contractor Program also provides actionable strategies for landing contracts, including: - Understanding key provisions of the NDAA FY24, such as inflation relief and small business requirements. - Leveraging technology to offer innovative security solutions. - Building strong proposals that highlight past performance and compliance with government standards. - Networking with prime contractors to gain subcontracting opportunities. Your Next Step to Success For contractors wondering how to get security contracts in 2025 , USPA offers a proven path to success. By addressing financial challenges and providing expert guidance, USPA empowers its partners to compete effectively in both government and private markets. Learn how USPA can help your business thrive by reading the full article here: How to Get Security Contracts in 2025 Albina Beici USPA Nationwide Security +1 800-214-1448 email us here Visit us on social media: Facebook LinkedIn Instagram YouTube TikTok Legal Disclaimer: EIN Presswire provides this news content "as is" without warranty of any kind. We do not accept any responsibility or liability for the accuracy, content, images, videos, licenses, completeness, legality, or reliability of the information contained in this article. If you have any complaints or copyright issues related to this article, kindly contact the author above. MENAFN26122024003118003196ID1109033738 Legal Disclaimer: MENAFN provides the information “as is” without warranty of any kind. We do not accept any responsibility or liability for the accuracy, content, images, videos, licenses, completeness, legality, or reliability of the information contained in this article. If you have any complaints or copyright issues related to this article, kindly contact the provider above.'We had nothing to give': Sarnia food banks struggle to meet demands as food banks across province face increased pressures

Friday's Mega Millions drawing is worth an estimated $1.15 billion, one of the game's top jackpotsIs that a chill in the air? Perhaps your boots are starting to feel colder and damper with each passing day. Maybe your cheeks are turning pink every time you step outside. Whether we like it or not, winter is here, which means it’s the perfect time to avoid the cold and hurry to your nice, warm movie house. With the holidays right around the corner, repertory theaters are stocking up on Christmas classics and seasonal favorites. For those looking for something more traditional than Brady Corbet’s “The Brutalist” and Robert Eggers’ “Nosferatu,” which release December 20 and December 25, respectively, cinemas in New York and Los Angeles have plenty of options for the whole family, as well as more festive adult fare for those looking to spice things up. Selections this month come from the Metrograph located on the Lower East Side in New York City and Village East by Angelika, as well as American Cinematheque in Los Angeles, which is responsible for the programming at The Egyptian Theater, the Aero Theater, and the Los Feliz 3, and Quentin Tarantino’s theater, the New Beverly Cinema. December has a wide array of choices dating back to 1944, with some film ‘s having been released within the last 10 years and even within the last few months. Keep reading to find out IndieWire’s picks for the last month of 2024. The holidays are a time of romance, celebration and, let’s face it, inebriation. And what better way to celebrate all three than with a viewing of Federico Fellini’s epic satire of Roman life, “La Dolce Vita.” The film won the Palme d’Or at Cannes in 1960 and stars one of Fellini’s muses, Marcello Mastroianni, as a tabloid journalist on a week-long bacchanalia through the ancient, yet modern city in search of love and happiness. Running at nearly three hours, “La Dolce Vita” offers plenty of time to kick back and live as the Romans do, with multiple screenings happening across the month on December 6, 8, 11, 18, and 26, all of which will be shown in 35mm. In need of a little romance this time of year? Metrograph has you covered with its 2024 installment of “The Holidays at Metrograph,” featuring three films that are sure to set your heart aflutter. First up is Paul Thomas Anderson’s cheeky peek behind the curtain of the 1950s London fashion world starring Daniel Day-Lewis, “Phantom Thread,” screening in 35mm on December 20, 24, and 26. Are the 1950s not far enough back for your taste in period romances? Try Greta Gerwig’s take on Louisa May Alcott’s classic family tale, “Little Women,” featuring performances from Saoirse Ronan, Timothée Chalamet, Florence Pugh, Eliza Scanlen, Laura Dern, Meryl Streep, and Chris Cooper. There are many opportunities to catch the film, starting on December 21 and playing every day up to Christmas. Last on the list is another 1950s affair, this time starring Cate Blanchett and Rooney Mara as a housewife and department store clerk drawn to each other by some magic magnetic force at a time where falling in love with one another could put them both at great risk. Todd Haynes’ “Carol” may be a holiday film for adults, but it still feeds the soul in the same way films like “It’s a Wonderful Life” and “A Christmas Carol” do. It can be seen in DCP on December 21 and 26 and in 35mm on December 23 and 25. On its own, Vincente Minelli’s “Meet Me in St. Louis” is a trite, unsubstantial musical filled with catchy but forgettable standards and a wasted Judy Garland pushing her talent across every inch of the frame as best she can. However, as one of the films that fueled the relationship between Minelli and Garland and led to the birth of their daughter, Liza Minelli, one can’t help but bask in its mediocre glory. Following a year in the life of a family at the turn of the 20th century, “Meet Me in St. Louis” would cement Minelli’s talents as a musical film director, leading to a long career at MGM helming projects like “An American in Paris” and “The Band Wagon.” To see where it all started, catch “Meet Me in St. Louis” at the Village East on Monday, December 23. Tired of seeing Hugh Grant plays villains and creeps? Go back to a time when the handsome Brit charmed and romanced with a viewing of the 2003 seminal classic, “Love Actually.” Comprised of an all-star cast that includes Grant, Emma Thompson, Alan Rickman, Laura Linney, Colin Firth, Keira Knightley, and many more, the Richard Curtis film follows a string of Londoners experiencing the highs and lows of love around Christmas time and cemented Mariah Carey’s “All I Want for Christmas Is You” as one of the greatest holiday tunes of all time. Catch it with your favorite loved ones on Wednesday, December 18 at 7pm. And of course, no Christmas would be complete without a viewing of Frank Capra’s touching drama, “It’s a Wonderful Life,” starring Jimmy Stewart, Donna Reed, and Lionel Barrymore. Following building and loan manager George Bailey on an odyssey of rediscovery, the film continues to hold a place in the hearts of multiple generations with its message of value and appreciation for the everyman in America just trying to help his fellow neighbor get by. It screens twice on Wednesday, December 11. It may still be reaching 70 degrees and higher here in Los Angeles, but with lights strung up and preparations underway for Jeremy Renner to serve as Grand Marshal of the 92nd Annual Hollywood Christmas Parade, it’s hard not to feel in a festive mood. If you’re wanting to feed that spirit, take your pick of two holiday gems screening on December 21 through American Cinematheque. The television version of Ingmar Bergman’s childhood tale “Fanny and Alexander” screens in all its glorious 312 minutes at The Egyptian Theater in Hollywood starting at 12pm and follows a pair of siblings during turn of the 20th century Sweden as they have their first experiences with familial strife. At 4pm , Tyler Taormina’s loving ode to family and community, “Christmas Eve in Miller’s Point,” screens at the Los Feliz 3. Featuring Maria Dizzia, Francesca Scorsese, Ben Shankman, Elsie Fisher, and a host of unknown, yet terrific talent, the film premiered at Cannes this year and hit theaters in November, but if you missed it, there’s no better opportunity to catch this soon-to-be-holiday-classic than later this month. Another modern favorite returns to the screen for the holiday season and in glorious 35mm. Starring Will Ferrell, James Caan, Zooey Deschanel, Ed Asner, Peter Dinklage, and Mary Steenburgen, Jon Favreau’s “Elf” is a classic fish-out-of-water tale with a healthy dose of silly winter cheer. It plays at the Egyptian on Christmas Eve at 7:30pm . Need a shift from all the candy canes and holly jolly after Christmas? Stanley Kubrick’s “2001: A Space Odyssey” has you covered. Screening in 70mm at the Aero Theater on December 27, Kubrick’s dark journey through the cosmos is a visual feast that defies description and the perfect film to cap off a year that truly showed us the horrors technology can bring forth. Run, don’t walk to tonight’s screening of “On Her Majesty’s Secret Service” at New Beverly Cinema, shown in glorious 70mm from an IB Tech Print and featuring the only performance from then-model George Lazenby as James Bond. Set mostly in a chilly research institute in the Swiss Alps, Lazenby’s Bond is as debonair as he is deadly, courting multiple women at the same time as he’s trying to stop the spread of a biological weapon. If you can’t make it tonight, there’s another showing tomorrow night, December 7 , as well. Later in the month, for those adults seeking out some mature, yet festive fare, Kubrick’s dizzying erotic epic “Eyes Wide Shut,” starring Tom Cruise and Nicole Kidman, plays on December 19 and 20 , while the action thriller “Die Hard,” starring Bruce Willis and Alan Rickman, screens December 23 and 24 . For our last selection, something the entire family can enjoy: “The Muppets Christmas Carol.” While the film does follow all of the beats and much of the traditional dialogue from Charles Dickens’ holiday classic, by surrounding Michael Caine’s forceful, yet grounded performance as Ebenezer Scrooge with the Muppet players, the story is given a new buoyancy that pulls audiences into the fantastical journey more than ever before. There are two matinee showings of the film this month, on Saturday, December 21 and Sunday, December 22 .

‘Our youth have started thinking about future that they want’ Jammu: Lieutenant Governor Manoj Sinha today interacted with the youth delegation from Tamil Nadu, who are on a five-day visit to J&K for Yuva Sangam, under Ek Bharat Shreshtha Bharat initiative. The Lieutenant Governor welcomed the Youth and learned about the experiences and multi-dimensional exposure they gained during their visit to the UT of J&K. “Tamil Nadu and Jammu Kashmir are eternally connected since time immemorial. When I look at the two regions, I see the inspiring chapters of rich ancient Indian history, contribution of men and women who shaped the destiny of our country,” he said. The Lieutenant Governor also commended the Yuva Sangam initiative of Ministry of Education, aimed at strengthening people-to-people connect among youth across different States and Union Territories. “I am truly grateful to Prime Minister Narendra Modi for unlocking the power of diversity with the spirit of oneness,” the Lieutenant Governor said. He also spoke on the Youth specific and youth-related policies and programmes launched in the last 10 years to create an enabling environment to realize their dreams. “The social consciousness of our youth is sharp and they have big dreams not just for themselves but for the development of this great nation. Our youth have started thinking about the future that they want. They are also working towards constructive change for a prosperous society based on equality and social justice,” the Lieutenant Governor said. Jammu Kashmir is paired with Tamil Nadu under Yuva Sangam to promote unity in diversity by facilitating meaningful interactions, cultural exchange and knowledge sharing among youth.P rime Minister Narendra Modi flagging off work on the Ken-Betwa river interlinking project signalled that the national government is unbothered by the wide-ranging opposition to it. At a budgeted cost of ₹44,605 crore, the project will draw supposedly “excess” water away from the Ken river basin towards the Betwa river basin and thereon to farmland and human settlements. When the Union Cabinet approved the project in 2021, the National Green Tribunal was still deliberating a challenge to its green clearance. This was typical of the state’s tendency to pardon businesses found in violation of environmental laws after they had made considerable investments. The government itself has ignored critical comments from experts, including members of an empowered committee appointed by the Supreme Court, and bypassed due process. The law has strict terms for allowing hydroelectric power projects in ecologically sensitive areas — the Daudhan Dam will be erected inside the Panna Tiger Reserve — but there is little evidence of such scrutiny. Work on the dam will destroy lakhs of trees and destabilise fragile ecosystems. The government has also refused to release hydrological data of the basins claiming they are sensitive by virtue of being subsets of the international Ganga basin. That a river interlink will water fields and quench thirst is irrefutable, but for how long? Various studies have asserted that the Ken and the Betwa basins suffer floods and droughts together, that the subcontinent’s rainfall and sedimentation patterns stand to be altered, and that the Betwa basin can be replenished more affordably by maintaining environmental flows and bolstering natural storage. The government’s principal claim is that the Ken and the Betwa basins are respectively water-surplus and water-deficient. This is disingenuous: the Betwa basin is water-deficient strictly because it hosts several lakh hectares of irrigated cropland. Should the demand in the Ken basin increase, both areas will suffer. Experts have instead suggested that the project is a ploy to pacify the electorate in Bundelkhand — as its approval months ahead of State polls in Uttar Pradesh also suggested — and/or to improve water supply to reservoirs in the lower Betwa thanks to other upstream blockades. The project seems more the product of political expediency and self-image than current ecological sense. The more resources the government sinks into it, the more unlikely changing or reversing course will become in the face of adverse developments. When they come to pass, the responsibility and costs of mitigating the adverse consequences of this and other projects, including the recently launched Parbati-Kalisindh-Chambal link, will fall to the people. Published - December 27, 2024 02:15 am IST Copy link Email Facebook Twitter Telegram LinkedIn WhatsApp Reddit natural resources (general) / natural resources / rivers / environmental issues

AUSTIN, Texas (AP) — Texas’ education board voted Friday to allow Bible-infused teachings in elementary schools under optional new curriculum that could test boundaries between religion and public classrooms in the U.S. The material adopted by the Texas State Board of Education, which is controlled by elected Republicans, passed in a 8-7 final vote over criticism that the lessons would proselytize to young learners and alienate students of faiths other than Christianity. Supporters argued the Bible is a core feature of American history and that teaching it will enrich lessons. The vote allows schools in Texas, which has more than 5 million public school students, to begin using the material in kindergarten through fifth grade classrooms as early as next year. Republican lawmakers celebrated the vote, including Texas' powerful lieutenant governor, who has pledged to pass legislation next year that would follow Louisiana in trying to require schools to display the Ten Commandments in classrooms. Texas' approval “is an important step to boosting student outcomes statewide,” Republican Lt. Gov. Dan Patrick posted on social media. Schools are not required to use the material, but those that do would receive extra funding from the state. In the newly approved kindergarten materials, one lesson on helping one’s neighbor instructs teachers to talk about the Golden Rule using lessons from the Bible. It also instructs the teachers to explain that the Bible is “a collection of ancient texts” and that its different parts are “the core books of the Jewish and Christian religions.” In a third-grade lesson about the first Thanksgiving, the material directs teachers to discuss how the governor of Plymouth said a prayer and gave a speech that included references to “several passages from the Christian Bible in the book of Psalms.” Teachers are then instructed to tell students the book of Psalms is a collection of songs, poems and hymns “that are used in both Jewish and Christian worship.” With the new curriculum, Texas would be the first state to introduce Bible lessons in schools in this manner, according to Matthew Patrick Shaw, an assistant professor of public policy and education at Vanderbilt University. Whether the lesson plans will be considered constitutional is up in the air, he said. The Texas Education Agency, which oversees public education for more than 5 million students statewide, created its own instruction materials after a law passed in 2023 by the GOP-controlled Legislature required the agency to do so. The lesson plans were publicly released this spring. “This curriculum is not age-appropriate or subject matter appropriate in the way that it presents these Bible stories,” said Amanda Tyler, executive director of the Baptist Joint Committee for Religious Liberty. Children who would read the material, she said, “are simply too young to tell the difference between what is a faith claim and what is a matter of fact.” Mary Castle, director of government relations for Texas Values, a right-leaning advocacy group, said there are “close to 300 common-day phrases that actually come from the Bible” and that students “will benefit from being able to understand a lot of these references.” More than 100 people testified at a board meeting this week that rung with emotion from parents, teachers and advocates. One Democrat on the board, Rebecca Bell-Metereau, said the inclusion of religions in addition to Christianity in the materials was not an “adequate attempt to change that bias.” “It seems to me like it is trying to place a Band-Aid on a gaping wound,” she said. One of the board members, Leslie Recine, is a Republican who was appointed to the board just weeks ago by Republican Texas Gov. Greg Abbott to temporarily fill a vacant seat. She voted in favor of the curriculum. Days after her appointment, a Democrat who ran unopposed was elected to fill that same board seat starting next year. Texas' plans to implement Biblical teachings in public school lesson plans is the latest effort by Republican-controlled states to bring religion into the classroom. In Louisiana, a law to place the Ten Commandments in all public classrooms was blocked by a federal judge earlier this month. Republican Gov. Jeff Landry signed the bill into law in June, prompting a group of Louisiana public school parents of different faiths to sue. In Oklahoma, the state's top education official has tried to incorporate the Bible into lesson plans for children in fifth through 12th grades. A group of teachers and parents recently filed a lawsuit to stop the Republican state superintendent's plan and his efforts to spend $3 million to purchase Bibles for public schools. Lathan is a corps member for the Associated Press/Report for America Statehouse News Initiative. Report for America is a nonprofit national service program that places journalists in local newsrooms to report on undercovered issues. LaFleur reported from Dallas. Associated Press writer Jamie Stengle in Dallas contributed to this report.Damson Technologies has officially inaugurated its new manufacturing facility in Ahmedabad, Gujarat, marking a significant investment of Rs 200 crore aimed at enhancing local production of smart accessories and lifestyle products. This state-of-the-art facility is expected to create around 500 jobs and bolster the company’s commitment to the ‘Make in India’ initiative. Key Takeaways Overview Of The Facility The new manufacturing hub will serve as the core production site for Damson Technologies, focusing on high-quality audio systems, including TWS earbuds and personal audio devices. The investment breakdown includes: This facility is designed to meet the growing demand for smart accessories in both domestic and international markets, aligning with the company’s vision of reducing import dependency. Production Capacity And Expansion Plans The facility will commence operations with six assembly lines, targeting an initial monthly production capacity of 3 lakh units. The expansion plan includes: This strategic approach ensures that Damson Technologies can effectively meet the rising demand for smart accessories while optimizing production efficiency. Commitment To Innovation Under the leadership of Ritesh Goenka, Managing Director of Damson Technologies, the company is investing $10 million in research and development. This investment will focus on integrating cutting-edge technologies, including: Additionally, the facility will support the development of a new line of gaming accessories, catering to the increasing demand for specialized products in the market. Global Expansion Strategy The establishment of this manufacturing facility is a crucial part of Damson Technologies’ global expansion strategy. By localizing production, the company aims to: This aligns with India’s vision of becoming a global manufacturing hub, enhancing the company’s market presence and operational capabilities. Financial Goals And Future Outlook Damson Technologies aims to achieve a revenue target of Rs 500 crore in the next fiscal year, with expectations of capturing a 3-4% market share in the mobile accessories and personal audio segments. The new facility is set to play a pivotal role in supporting these ambitious financial goals, solidifying the company’s position as a leader in the smart accessories manufacturing sector. In conclusion, the inauguration of the new manufacturing facility in Ahmedabad represents a significant milestone for Damson Technologies, reflecting its commitment to quality, innovation, and the ‘Make in India’ initiative. With a focus on local production and technological advancement, the company is poised for substantial growth in the coming years. Sources

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