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Nacta asks sensitive institutions to link databases with National Fusion Centre Institutions to will provide all their database information to Nacta Fusion Centre which will form its central database ISLAMABAD: The National Counter-Terrorism Authority (Nacta) has issued instructions to link the databases of various institutions including sensitive institutions, intelligence agencies, Ministry of Interior, FBR, FIA and Nadra with the National Fusion Center of Nacta. These institutions will provide all their database information to the Nacta Fusion Center which will form its central database. The agencies that have been asked to attach data by Director General (Intelligence Wing) Nacta include ISI, MI, Intelligence Bureau, FIA, Naval Intelligence, Air Intelligence, Anti-Narcotics Force, Nadra, Pakistan Telecom Authority (PTA), FBR, Punjab Information Technology Board (PITB), Federal Ministry of Religious Affairs and Interfaith Harmony, Ministry of Safron, Home Secretaries of all four provinces, Azad Jammu Kashmir and Gilgit. Baltistan, Excise and Taxation Departments of Islamabad, Punjab, Sindh, KP and Balochistan, heads of CTD of four provinces including Azad Kashmir, Gilgit-Baltistan, IG Police of provinces and heads of Special Branch, Anti Money Laundering and Counter Financing Authority Islamabad, CEO Public Safety Wing Islamabad and Commanding Officer FC, Field Intelligence Unit North and South Balochistan.Jigsaw Puzzle Market is Touching New Level | Ceaco ,SunsOut, Jumbo 12-19-2024 08:06 PM CET | IT, New Media & Software Press release from: HTF Market Intelligence Consulting Private Limited Jigsaw Puzzle Market According to HTF Market Intelligence, the Global Jigsaw Puzzle market is expected to grow from USD 7.5 Billion in 2023 to USD 12 Billion by 2032, with a CAGR of 6.5% from 2024 to 2030. HTF MI recently introduced Global Jigsaw Puzzle Market study with 143+ pages in-depth overview, describing about the Product / Industry Scope and elaborates market outlook and status (2024-2032). The market Study is segmented by key regions which is accelerating the marketization. At present, the market is developing its presence and some of the key players from the complete study are Ravensburger, Buffalo Games, Springbok, Clementoni, Eurographics, Cobble Hill, Educa Borras, Ceaco, White Mountain, Schmidt Spiele, Tenyo, Hape, Robotime, Gibsons, Trefl, SunsOut, Castorland, Jumbo, Tomax. Download Sample Report PDF (Including Full TOC, Table & Figures) 👉 https://www.htfmarketreport.com/sample-report/3088572-jigsaw-puzzle-market-1?utm_source=Tina_OpenPR&utm_id=Tina The Jigsaw Puzzle market is segmented by Types (Wooden puzzles, Cardboard puzzles, 3D puzzles, Personalized puzzles, Educational puzzles.), Application (Entertainment, Educational tools, Stress relief, Team building, Cognitive development.) and by Geography (North America, LATAM, West Europe, Central & Eastern Europe, Northern Europe, Southern Europe, East Asia, Southeast Asia, South Asia, Central Asia, Oceania, MEA). Definition: A jigsaw puzzle is a popular recreational activity that involves assembling a picture or design from many small, interlocking pieces, each with a unique shape. Jigsaw puzzles vary in complexity, ranging from simple designs with just a few pieces for young children to intricate puzzles with thousands of pieces for adults. They are designed to improve cognitive skills such as problem-solving, spatial reasoning, and memory. In addition to being a form of entertainment, jigsaw puzzles are also used in therapy, helping individuals with dementia, Alzheimer's, and other cognitive disorders to maintain mental sharpness. Puzzles are produced in various themes, from scenic landscapes and famous artworks to custom designs featuring family photos or personal images. The material used for making the puzzle pieces typically includes cardboard or wood, and many modern puzzles come with a glossy finish or texture to enhance the tactile experience. In the digital age, the puzzle industry has expanded to include virtual jigsaw puzzles, which can be played on computers, tablets, or smartphones, offering a new dimension to the traditional activity. The growing interest in puzzles, particularly during the COVID-19 pandemic, has resulted in a surge in demand for both physical and digital versions, with puzzle enthusiasts creating online communities to share experiences, tips, and new designs. Market Trends: •Increasing popularity of custom and theme-based puzzles. Market Drivers: •Growing focus on educational and stress-relieving activities. Market Opportunities: •Expansion in online platforms and educational institutions. Dominating Region: •Europe Fastest-Growing Region: •Asia-Pacific Have a query? Market an enquiry before purchase 👉 https://www.htfmarketreport.com/enquiry-before-buy/3088572-jigsaw-puzzle-market-1?utm_source=Tina_OpenPR&utm_id=Tina The titled segments and sub-section of the market are illuminated below: In-depth analysis of Jigsaw Puzzle market segments by Types: Wooden puzzles, Cardboard puzzles, 3D puzzles, Personalized puzzles, Educational puzzles. Detailed analysis of Jigsaw Puzzle market segments by Applications: Entertainment, Educational tools, Stress relief, Team building, Cognitive development. Geographically, the detailed analysis of consumption, revenue, market share, and growth rate of the following regions: •The Middle East and Africa (South Africa, Saudi Arabia, UAE, Israel, Egypt, etc.) •North America (United States, Mexico & Canada) •South America (Brazil, Venezuela, Argentina, Ecuador, Peru, Colombia, etc.) •Europe (Turkey, Spain, Turkey, Netherlands Denmark, Belgium, Switzerland, Germany, Russia UK, Italy, France, etc.) •Asia-Pacific (Taiwan, Hong Kong, Singapore, Vietnam, China, Malaysia, Japan, Philippines, Korea, Thailand, India, Indonesia, and Australia). Buy Now Latest Edition of Jigsaw Puzzle Market Report 👉 https://www.htfmarketreport.com/buy-now?format=1&report=3088572 Jigsaw Puzzle Market Research Objectives: - Focuses on the key manufacturers, to define, pronounce and examine the value, sales volume, market share, market competition landscape, SWOT analysis, and development plans in the next few years. - To share comprehensive information about the key factors influencing the growth of the market (opportunities, drivers, growth potential, industry-specific challenges and risks). - To analyze the with respect to individual future prospects, growth trends and their involvement to the total market. - To analyze reasonable developments such as agreements, expansions new product launches, and acquisitions in the market. - To deliberately profile the key players and systematically examine their growth strategies. FIVE FORCES & PESTLE ANALYSIS: In order to better understand market conditions five forces analysis is conducted that includes the Bargaining power of buyers, Bargaining power of suppliers, Threat of new entrants, Threat of substitutes, and Threat of rivalry. • Political (Political policy and stability as well as trade, fiscal, and taxation policies) • Economical (Interest rates, employment or unemployment rates, raw material costs, and foreign exchange rates) • Social (Changing family demographics, education levels, cultural trends, attitude changes, and changes in lifestyles) • Technological (Changes in digital or mobile technology, automation, research, and development) • Legal (Employment legislation, consumer law, health, and safety, international as well as trade regulation and restrictions) • Environmental (Climate, recycling procedures, carbon footprint, waste disposal, and sustainability) Get 10-25% Discount on Immediate purchase 👉 https://www.htfmarketreport.com/request-discount/3088572-jigsaw-puzzle-market-1?utm_source=Tina_OpenPR&utm_id=Tina Points Covered in Table of Content of Global Jigsaw Puzzle Market: Chapter 01 - Jigsaw Puzzle Executive Summary Chapter 02 - Market Overview Chapter 03 - Key Success Factors Chapter 04 - Global Jigsaw Puzzle Market - Pricing Analysis Chapter 05 - Global Jigsaw Puzzle Market Background or History Chapter 06 - Global Jigsaw Puzzle Market Segmentation (e.g. Type, Application) Chapter 07 - Key and Emerging Countries Analysis Worldwide Jigsaw Puzzle Market Chapter 08 - Global Jigsaw Puzzle Market Structure & worth Analysis Chapter 09 - Global Jigsaw Puzzle Market Competitive Analysis & Challenges Chapter 10 - Assumptions and Acronyms Chapter 11 - Jigsaw Puzzle Market Research Methodology Thanks for reading this article; you can also get individual chapter-wise sections or region-wise report versions like North America, LATAM, Europe, Japan, Australia or Southeast Asia. Contact Us: Nidhi Bhavsar (PR & Marketing Manager) HTF Market Intelligence Consulting Private Limited Phone: +15075562445 sales@htfmarketreport.com About Author: HTF Market Intelligence Consulting is uniquely positioned to empower and inspire with research and consulting services to empower businesses with growth strategies, by offering services with extraordinary depth and breadth of thought leadership, research, tools, events, and experience that assist in decision-making. This release was published on openPR.

Biden pushes new Russia, Iran, Korea, China effort before Trump termRosen Law Firm Encourages Light & Wonder, Inc. Investors to Inquire About Securities Class Action Investigation - LNW

Miami’s skyline is evolving rapidly, cementing the city’s status as a global destination for luxury living. A driving force behind this transformation is the surge in branded residences—luxury properties affiliated with iconic brands such as St. Regis , Aston Martin , Baccarat , and Bentley . But do these branded developments truly raise the bar for luxury real estate, or are they merely a marketing gimmick? Let’s delve into why branded residences are taking Miami by storm and whether they deliver on their promises. Branded residences are high-end residential properties that partner with luxury brands, incorporating the brand’s identity, design ethos, and service standards into the living experience. Although the brands don’t physically build the residences, they work closely with developers through branding agreements, allowing the property to carry the prestige of the brand name. For instance, the Aston Martin Residences doesn’t feature car manufacturing but integrates sleek, automotive-inspired interiors, reflecting the brand’s dedication to craftsmanship and elegance. This partnership adds allure, attracting buyers who identify with the brand’s luxury lifestyle. Miami has become a magnet for branded residential projects, with over 40 branded developments and more in the pipeline. But what makes Miami the ideal location for these luxury properties? ● Booming Real Estate Market: Miami’s real estate sector has seen tremendous growth, especially in the luxury segment. ● Tax-Friendly Jurisdiction: Florida’s lack of state income tax and favorable tax laws attract high-net-worth individuals from across the globe. ● Financial Hub: Miami is growing as an international financial center, drawing in wealthy investors and residents looking for high-end real estate. Furthermore, Miami’s appeal extends beyond economic advantages. The city boasts a vibrant cultural scene, exceptional dining, year-round tropical weather, and direct access to international travel through Miami International Airport. These factors make Miami not just a real estate investment hub but a lifestyle destination, attracting affluent individuals worldwide. Several branded projects stand out in Miami’s luxury real estate market: ● St. Regis Residences: Offers exclusive services like private dining, a wellness center, and a beach club. ● Aston Martin Residences: Features a “sky garage” allowing you to park next to your penthouse, bringing the brand’s sleek automotive aesthetic into daily living. ● Baccarat Residences: Combines the elegance of French design with Miami’s coastal lifestyle, featuring private pools and gourmet dining experiences. Other luxury brands such as Porsche, Bentley, Fendi, and Dolce & Gabbana are also making their mark on Miami’s evolving skyline. These developments reflect a broader trend where buyers increasingly seek alignment between their personal brand preferences and their living environments. Branded residences offer an unparalleled lifestyle, combining luxury with exclusivity. Here’s what sets them apart from standard luxury condos: Branded residences go beyond traditional amenities like pools and gyms. Residents enjoy access to unique features such as: ● Private dining rooms ● Cigar lounges ● Members-only beach clubs ● Private marinas Additionally, many branded residences integrate cutting-edge technology into their design. Smart home systems, biometric security features, and sustainable building practices are becoming standard in these developments, elevating their appeal to tech-savvy and environmentally conscious buyers. These properties offer round-the-clock services like 24/7 concierge, valet parking, personal shopping, and even on-demand spa treatments. Luxury brands like Baccarat and Bentley extend their reputation for excellence into daily living. Need concert tickets, yacht charters, or pet care? The concierge can handle it all, providing a five-star hotel experience in the comfort of your home. Branded residences attract affluent buyers who value privacy and exclusivity. These developments cultivate a sense of community among like-minded residents, whether networking over fine dining or forming friendships at exclusive clubs. In Miami, the diverse international mix of residents in branded residences further enhances the community experience, making these properties hubs for global networking and cultural exchange. The big question for potential buyers: Is the brand name worth the premium? Branded residences typically command a 25-30% price premium over non-branded luxury properties, with higher HOA fees reflecting the premium services and amenities offered. However, branded properties often provide better long-term value, selling faster and commanding higher resale prices. For example, Four Seasons Residences at Surfside saw resale prices soar by up to 180% over pre-construction prices. While branded residences offer unparalleled luxury, buyers should be prepared for higher ongoing costs. These properties are often bound by long-term management agreements with the brand, ensuring the residence maintains its high standards. As a result, HOA fees are significantly higher to cover premium services. Branded residences are not limited to Miami. This trend is global, with projects in cities like Dubai, New York, and London. The sector’s impressive trajectory is supported by an anticipated annual growth rate of 12% through 2026. This rise is fueled by the growing population of ultra-high-net-worth individuals (UHNWIs), projected to increase by 28.5% between 2022 and 2027. Florida, and particularly Miami, emerges as a leader in this market. With its tax benefits, international allure, and vibrant lifestyle, Miami offers the ideal conditions for branded developments to thrive, further cementing their premium status in luxury real estate. Globally, Asia and the Middle East are emerging as strong competitors in the branded residence market. For instance, Dubai has witnessed a surge in branded developments, including the Armani Residences and the Versace Palazzo. This global trend indicates that Miami’s market is not isolated but part of a broader, highly lucrative real estate strategy. Branded residences come with intricate legal agreements. Developers must adhere to strict guidelines set by the luxury brand, which often exceed standard real estate practices. These stipulations ensure that every element of the residence reflects the brand’s image and standards, from the quality of amenities to the governance of shared spaces in mixed-use developments. Buyers should also be aware of the potential challenges that come with these agreements, such as limited flexibility in property modifications and stringent resale conditions designed to protect the brand’s reputation. So, are branded residences the future of luxury living in Miami, or just a passing trend? With their unmatched amenities, personalized services, and exclusivity, it’s clear that they offer much more than just a famous name. For high-net-worth buyers, these properties promise not just a home, but a curated lifestyle aligned with their tastes and values. As Miami continues to attract wealth and talent, the branded residence model is poised for further evolution. Expect to see greater integration of sustainable practices, smart technologies, and even co-branding collaborations between multiple luxury brands to appeal to an increasingly discerning clientele. Branded residences may have started as a marketing tactic, but they have quickly become a new standard for luxury living. Offering more than just a well-known brand name, they provide a complete lifestyle experience, from exclusive services to tight-knit, affluent communities. For those looking to invest in a turnkey, worry-free luxury lifestyle, branded residences are here to stay.

Two high school students and their families sued their high school and school district, alleging violations of their First and Fourteenth Amendment rights as well as Title IX protection. A California high school caved to a student uprising after hundreds of students showed up wearing T-shirts that read "Save Girls' Sports" to protest a trans athlete on the cross-country team, defying the school's latest dress code. The school had previously put students in detention for wearing the shirts. But a source told Fox News Digital that the school did not dress-code students when they showed up wearing the shirts on Wednesday. Parents of the school's students provided an update to California Family Council outreach director Sophia Lorey, claiming that administrators had a meeting Wednesday morning where faculty was instructed not to dress-code students, Lorey told Fox News Digital. "Today students once again wore their ‘Save Girls Sports’ shirts," Lorey wrote to Fox News Digital. "According to the email sent out earlier this week from MLK HS Principal Leann Iacuone only the shirts that stated ‘XX=/XY’ should receive a dress code. Yet, as of now no student who is wearing that shirt today has received a dress code. I received information that there was a staff meeting today before school were the staff was told not to dress code." CLICK HERE FOR MORE SPORTS COVERAGE ON FOXNEWS.COM Lorey added that students at neighboring schools have begun to wear the T-shirts as Martin Luther King's situation has garnered national attention. These schools include Arlington High School and Riverside Polytechnical High School, which share a school district with Martin Luther King. Ramona High School in Ramona, California, which is 83 miles south of Riverside, has also seen its students wear the shirts. The students have worn the shirts every Wednesday, resulting in discipline by school administrators. But detention and dress code violations never shuttered their spirit. Many students at the school have gone viral on social media by sharing details of the situation with photos and videos of them wearing the shirts. The student uprising came amid an ongoing lawsuit over two girls' cross-country runners who alleged their T-shirts were compared to swastikas by school administrators. Another student athlete on the school's cross-country team, Rylee Morrow, brought more national attention to the situation when she gave an impassioned speech at a school board meeting in November in a clip that went viral due to her conveyed fears of having to share a locker room with a biological male. Lorey commended the students for taking a stand and pushing the school district to withdraw its discipline on Wednesday. "By wearing their ‘Save Girls Sports’ shirts, these young leaders are showing that they won’t back down in the face of pressure or opposition - even from their own administration. It’s not just about athletics—it’s about standing up for the integrity and rights of female athletes everywhere," Lorey wrote. But anti-trans messaging isn't the only social media activity that has erupted from the school. SJSU TRANSGENDER VOLLEYBALL SCANDAL: TIMELINE OF ALLEGATIONS, POLITICAL IMPACT AND A RAGING CULTURE MOVEMENT On Wednesday, a trans athlete at the school allegedly made a private post on Instagram lashing out against detractors who have questioned and opposed trans inclusion on the school's girls' cross-country team. Multiple sources, including Lorey, have confirmed the message was posted to the athlete's private Instagram story. The athlete also allegedly expressed an intention to compete in girls' pole-vaulting and said that competing against male opponents resulted in disappointing finishes. In a statement previously provided to Fox News Digital, the Riverside Unified School District (RUSD) said it has allowed the transgender athlete to compete on the team because it must comply with California state law. "It is important to remember that RUSD is bound to follow California law which requires that students be 'permitted to participate in sex-segregated school programs and activities, including athletic teams and competitions consistent with his or her gender identity, irrespective of the gender listed on the pupil’s records,'" the statement said. "While these rules were not created by RUSD, the district is committed to complying with the law and CIF regulations. California state law prohibits discrimination of students based on gender, gender identity and gender expression and specifically prohibits discrimination on the basis of gender in physical education and athletics. The protections we provide to all students are not only aligned with the law but also with our core values, which include equity and well-being." The school said those who are upset by it should direct their anger to state and federal lawmakers. "As these matters play out in our courts and the media, opposition and protests should be directed at those in a position to affect those laws and policies, including officials in Washington, D.C., and Sacramento," the statement said. California has had laws in effect to protect transgender athletes in women's sports since 2014. That year, AB 1266 took effect , giving California students at scholastic and collegiate levels the right to "participate in sex-segregated school programs and activities, including athletic teams and competitions, and use facilities consistent with his or her gender identity, irrespective of the gender listed on the pupil’s records." Other high school and college students in California have expressed opposition to trans athletes in girls' sports. CLICK HERE TO GET THE FOX NEWS APP Students at Martin Luther King High School in Riverside, Calif., wear T-shirts with a slogan that says "Save Girls' Sports" to protest a trans athlete on the cross-country team. (Courtesy of Sophia Lorey) The girls' volleyball team at Stone Ridge Christian High School in Merced was scheduled to face San Francisco Waldorf in the Northern California Division 6 tournament in November, but it forfeited in an announcement just before the match over the presence of a trans athlete. Those girls were commended at a ceremony held by women's athletic rights activist Riley Gaines at their own high school on Dec. 4. Meanwhile, another California transgender high school volleyball player was booed and harassed at an Oct. 12 match between Notre Dame Belmont and Half Moon Bay High School, according to ABC 7. Half Moon Bay rostered the transgender athlete. At the college level, San Jose State's volleyball team was at the center of a national media firestorm this season over the presence of a transgender athlete on the team and a teammate being involved in multiple lawsuits over the issue. The team saw eight of its matches forfeited, including a conference tournament match, amid the controversy, which only brought more national attention to the team as it made it all the way to the Mountain West championship game. Follow Fox News Digital’s sports coverage on X and subscribe to the Fox News Sports Huddle newsletter . Jackson Thompson is a sports writer for Fox News Digital. He previously worked for ESPN and Business Insider. Jackson has covered the Super Bowl and NBA Finals, and has interviewed iconic figures Usain Bolt, Rob Gronkowski, Jerry Rice, Troy Aikman, Mike Trout, David Ortiz and Roger Clemens.

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WASHINGTON (AP) — President-elect Donald Trump is promising expedited federal permits for energy projects and other construction worth more than $1 billion. But like other Trump plans, the idea is likely to run into regulatory and legislative hurdles, including a landmark law that requires federal agencies to consider the environmental impact before deciding on major projects. In a post on his Truth Social site Tuesday, Trump said anyone making a $1 billion investment in the United States “will receive fully expedited approvals and permits, including, but in no way limited to, all Environmental approvals.” “GET READY TO ROCK!!!" he added. While Trump did not specify who would be eligible for accelerated approvals, dozens of energy projects proposed nationwide, from natural gas pipelines and export terminals to solar farms and offshore wind turbines, meet the billion-dollar criteria. Environmental groups slammed the proposal, calling it illegal on its face and a clear violation of the National Environmental Policy Act, a 54-year-old law that requires federal agencies to study the potential environmental impact of proposed actions and consider alternatives. “Trump is unabashedly and literally offering to sell out America to the highest corporate bidder,'' said Lena Moffitt, executive director of Evergreen Action, an environmental group. She said the plan was “obviously illegal” and another example of Trump “putting special interests and corporate polluters in the driver’s seat, which would result in more pollution, higher costs and fewer energy choices for the American people.” Alexandra Adams, chief policy advocacy officer at the Natural Resources Defense Council, said Trump should be careful what he wishes for. “What if someone wants to build a waste incinerator next to Mar-a-Lago or a coal mine next to Bedminster golf course?" she asked, referring to Trump's Florida home and New Jersey golf club, respectively. “There’s a reason Congress requires the government to take a hard look at community impacts to make sure we don’t greenlight projects that do more harm than good. Cheerleading on social media doesn’t change that reality,” Adams said. Energy analyst Kevin Book said Trump's post showed his usual flair for showmanship but said there was a real concern underlying it: a bipartisan push for permitting reform to speed up major environmental projects that now take years to win approval. READ: “The substance here is he is really serious about trying to get permitting reform done," said Book, managing partner at ClearView Energy Partners, a Washington research firm. “Permitting delays are an impediment in many sectors — including energy — and there are multiple billion-dollar investments waiting for permitting reform," Book said. A bipartisan plan championed by Senate Energy Committee Chairman Joe Manchin of West Virginia and Wyoming Sen. John Barrasso, the committee's top Republican, would speed up permitting for major energy and mineral projects, but its chances are uncertain in the final few weeks of the current Congress. Their plan would boost energy projects of all types, bringing down prices, creating domestic jobs and allowing the U.S. to continue as a global energy leader, Barrasso and Manchin say. Critics say the bill would open major expanses of public lands and waters for oil and gas drilling and gut executive and judicial review. “Checking off wish lists for oil, gas and mining companies is not permitting reform,” said Rep. Raul Grijalva of Arizona, the top Democrat on the House Natural Resources Committee. He called the bill “a dirty deal” that would exempt some oil and gas drilling projects from federal review and “let mining companies dump even more toxic waste on our public lands.” Jason Miller, a senior adviser to Trump, said Trump's second term will be a “golden age of regulation-cutting,'' including a promise to “drill, baby, drill.'' “If you want to bring in money, he’s going to move heaven and earth to get that money in the door and get it invested in the United States,'' Miller said Tuesday at a conference organized by the Wall Street Journal. The plan applies to both domestic and foreign investment, Miller said: “He wants to get the money and he wants to get the regulations cut and get the economy moving again. ” In the short term, Trump's post makes permitting reform less likely this year, Book said, as Republicans seek to wait until next year when they will control both chambers of Congress and the White House. But the issue is likely to return quickly in the new year. ___ Associated Press writer Jill Colvin contributed to this story. Copyright 2024 The Associated Press . All rights reserved. This material may not be published, broadcast, rewritten or redistributed.After 10 months of work, the bipartisan Task Force on Artificial Intelligence in the US house of Congress has unveiled its report, outlining recommendations for federal AI policy. The sweeping 253-page report [PDF] makes 89 recommendations based on 66 key findings in 15 different areas. The 24-member (evenly split between Democrats and Republicans) Task Force – an offshoot of the committee on science and space technology – said the aim of all these is to keep the US competitive in AI while simultaneously taking action to address some of the problems that have already arisen due to its rapid rise in relevance. "AI has tremendous potential to transform society and our economy for the better and address complex national challenges," Task Force chairman Jay Obernolte (R-CA) and co-chairman Ted Lieu (D-CA) wrote in an introductory letter accompanying the report. "Nevertheless, we also recognize that AI can be misused and lead to various types of harm. "This report encapsulates a targeted approach that balances the need to promote vibrant AI innovation while safeguarding Americans from potential harms as we enter an era of widespread adoption of AI," the chairs added. The report, which the Task Force said it spent 10 months working on in consultation with "business leaders, government officials, technical experts, academics and legal scholars," covers a lot of ground. It examines government AI use, finding that the feds "should be wary" of using algorithms to inform decisions and recommending the development of AI standards. It also highlights the need to invest in AI education to ensure the identified gap in "talent needed to research, develop, and deploy AI applications" doesn't continue to grow. Additionally, the Task Force suggests clarifying intellectual property laws to address challenges posed by GenAI to the creative community, "appropriately countering the growing harm of AI-created deepfakes," and developing methods to ensure content authenticity can be verified. The members also say Congress needs to act to ensure new privacy laws are written in a "generally applicable and technology-neutral" manner to conform with future AI challenges, a need to support the Defense Department in the development of safe and responsible AI, the establishment of AI research standards, and providing resources and support for small businesses to adopt AI technologies effectively. Healthcare, agriculture, and financial services are mentioned as three distinct areas in which AI could play a huge role in coming years – the report identifies the need to properly guide development in those sectors to ensure farmers, patients, and consumers benefit from advancements. The report also expresses concern with the "increased risk that malicious actors could use open [source AI] models to cause harm." It recommends the need to monitor such models for risk without restricting their development, as the Task Force found "limited evidence that open models should be restricted." As for civil rights and civil liberties, the Task Force acknowledges the potential for misuse of AI by the government and law enforcement agencies. "AI models, and software systems more generally, can produce misleading or inaccurate outputs," the report finds. "Acting or making decisions based on flawed outputs can deprive Americans of constitutional rights." To counter those issues, the report recommends agencies "understand and protect against using AI in discriminatory decision making" and suggests the creation of standards and evaluation procedures "to mitigate flawed decision-making involving AI systems." The American Civil Liberties Union commended the report, with senior policy counsel Cody Venzke expressing satisfaction that the Task Force admitted AI is leading to real harms for Americans due to misuse. "Curbing those abuses of AI is not a partisan issue, and more concrete action is needed to protect civil rights, while maintaining states' authority to build on those protections," Venzke said. The report also mentions the need for the federal government to take action while being careful not to illegally preempt state laws. "The Task Force is appropriately cautious when wrestling with issues around deepfakes, open source AI, digital identity, and other issues, recognizing that legislators should consider a wide array of tailored tools to address real, not speculative, harms while respecting civil rights and civil liberties," Venzke added. The Lawyers' Committee for Civil Rights Under Law (LCCRUL) was less impressed. "We can't allow Congress to sign blank checks funding AI development, while Black people and other communities of color pay the cost of AI adoption," said LCCRUL policy counsel Alex Ault. "It is imperative that our lawmakers do more than just discuss the necessary measures needed to ensure that AI serves the public good and doesn't exacerbate longstanding inequities." While there's no sure way to know what the incoming administration of president elect Donald Trump has planned for AI policy, Task Force chair Obernolte seems to think Trump and his team are at least willing to entertain the recommendations. "We met with the Trump technology transition team last week, and I believe we're meeting with the AI czar this afternoon," Obernolte said during a press conference discussing the report yesterday. "Obviously, this is not the last word in AI - it's the beginning of the conversation and it will only be effective if future Congresses implement some of the recommendations we have created. "We need to be a partner with the executive branch in making that happen ... this has to be a team effort," Obernolte continued, citing the need for cooperation between the House, Senate and White House. "We think all of those entities are up to the challenge." Speaking to reporters afterward, Obernolte mentioned he was delighted by Trump's appointment of billionaire tech entrepreneur and venture capitalist David Sacks as " AI czar " to help steer policy, citing it as evidence the incoming administration was paying attention to the issue. "We hope [the report] sets a thoughtful and deliberate path for future Congresses to implement in achieving a balance between protecting Americans against the potential harms of AI and enabling AI innovation to flourish," Obernolte said at the end of the press conference. In short, decent AI policy is now in the hands of the US Congress. With that in mind, your mileage may vary. ®

Alexander: Is diminished USC-UCLA game another reminder of what we’ve lost?Highlights of the Quarter Ended September 30, 2024 (Unless otherwise noted, all financial amounts in this news release are expressed in U.S. dollars) IBC is reporting the performance of "continuing operations" at its Copper Alloy division, "discontinued operations" at its Massachusetts facility, and a combination of continued and discontinued operations.1 FRANKLIN, IN / ACCESSWIRE / November 27, 2024 / IBC Advanced Alloys Corp. ("IBC" or the "Company") (TSXV:IB)(OTCQB:IAALF) announces its financial results for the quarter ended September 30, 2024. The Company will host a live investor webcast to discuss these results on Friday, November 29 at 12 Noon Eastern. To register, please go here: https://events.gov.teams.microsoft.us/event/8c3611f7-e3f7-4d3b-8809-d6f7e9e21916@a7c6e2dc-c188-46da-80af-dd3453bd7361 Sales at IBC's continuing operations1 (its Copper Alloys Division) totaled $4.898 million, largely unchanged from sales of $4.906 million in the quarter ended September 30, 2023. The division's gross profit of $857,000 and gross margin of 17.5% largely equaled its performance in the prior-year period ($865,000 and 17.6%, respectively), as did its Adjusted EBITDA of $479,000 ($479,000 in the prior-year period). Discontinued operations at the IBC's Engineered Materials ("EM") division had no sales, as all contracts were completed in June 2024, but continued to incur closing costs. IBC expects these to wind down in the coming months, potentially putting the company on a substantially stronger footing. On a consolidated basis, IBC booked a loss of $1.2 million, or $0.01 per share, driven largely by the lack of revenue and ongoing closing costs at its discontinued EM division, by higher-than-normal corporate SG&A costs (largely due to the EM division closure), and by debt service payments. IBC expects to incur a charge to operations in respect to the discontinuation of the Engineered Materials division's operations and is negotiating with the building landlord to minimize such costs. "In spite of slightly softer quarterly demand in copper alloy markets, our Copper Alloys division continued to drive healthy sales revenue and maintained its gross profit, gross margin, and adjusted earnings as compared to the prior-year period," said Mark A. Smith, Chairman and CEO of IBC. "As closing costs at our discontinued EM division wind down over the coming months, I see IBC moving to a substantially stronger footing with significant opportunity for growth in the Copper Alloys division. On a parallel path, as we continue to pay down debt and strengthen our balance sheet through organic growth, I see a great deal of upside for the Company going forward." Selected Results Except as noted, all financial amounts are determined in accordance with IFRS.1 Full results can be seen in the Company's financial statements and management's discussion and analysis ("MD&A"), available at sedarplus.ca and on the Company's website at https://ibcadvancedalloys.com/investors-center/ . INVESTOR WEBCAST SCHEDULED FOR FRIDAY, NOVEMBER 29, 2024 at 12 NOON EASTERN IBC will host a live investor webcast on Friday, November 29, 2024 at 12 noon Eastern featuring Mark A. Smith, CEO and Board Chairman, who will discuss the Company's financial results for the quarter. Participants can register to participate by going here: https://events.gov.teams.microsoft.us/event/8c3611f7-e3f7-4d3b-8809-d6f7e9e21916@a7c6e2dc-c188-46da-80af-dd3453bd7361 NON-IFRS MEASURES To supplement its consolidated financial statements, which are prepared and presented in accordance with IFRS, IBC uses "Adjusted EBITDA," which a non-IFRS financial measure. IBC believes that Adjusted EBITDA is a useful indicator for cash flow generated by the business that is independent of IBC's capital structure. Operating income (loss) and Adjusted EBITDA should not be considered in isolation or construed as an alternative to loss for the period or any other measure of performance or as an indicator of our operating performance. Operating income (loss) and Adjusted EBITDA presented here may not be comparable to similarly titled measures presented by other companies. Other companies may calculate similarly titled measures differently, limiting their usefulness as comparative measures to IBC's data. ADJUSTED EBITDA Adjusted EBITDA in the Company's continuing operations represents the income (loss) for the period, and year-to-date, before interest, income taxes, depreciation, amortization, and share-based compensation. A reconciliation of the quarter loss to Adjusted EBITDA in IBC's continuing operations follows: For more information on IBC and its innovative alloy products, go here . On Behalf of the Board of Directors: "Mark A. Smith " Mark A. Smith, CEO & Chairman of the Board # # # CONTACTS: Mark A. Smith, Chairman of the Board Jim Sims, Director of Investor and Public Relations +1 (303) 503-6203 Email: jim.sims@ibcadvancedalloys.com Website: www.ibcadvancedalloys.com ABOUT IBC ADVANCED ALLOYS CORP. IBC is a leading advanced copper alloys manufacturer serving a variety of industries such as defense, aerospace, automotive , telecommunications, precision manufacturing, and others. At its vertically integrated production facility in Franklin, Indiana, IBC manufactures and distributes a variety of copper alloys as castings and forgings, including beryllium copper, chrome copper, and aluminum bronze. The Company's common shares are traded on the TSX Venture Exchange under the symbol "IB" and the OTCQB under the symbol "IAALF". CAUTIONARY STATEMENTS REGARDING FORWARD LOOKING STATEMENTS Neither TSX Venture Exchange nor its Regulation Services Provider (as that term is defined in the policies of the TSX Venture Exchange) accepts responsibility for the adequacy or accuracy of this release. Certain information contained in this news release may be forward-looking information or forward-looking statements as defined under applicable securities laws. Forward-looking information and forward-looking statements are often, but not always identified by the use of words such as "expect", "anticipate", "believe", "foresee", "could", "estimate", "goal", "intend", "plan", "seek", "will", "may" and "should" and similar expressions or words suggesting future outcomes. This news release includes forward-looking information and statements pertaining to, among other things, the Company's expectation of further growth in revenue and market demand, and the ability of the Copper Alloy division to increase its production capacity, reduce unit costs of production, expand its product portfolio and expand into new markets, the closure of the Engineered Materials division and the expected charge to operations in connection therewith, and the completion of existing contracts by the Engineered Materials division. Forward-looking statements involve substantial known and unknown risks and uncertainties, certain of which are beyond the Company's control including: the risk that the Company may not be able to make sufficient payments to retire its debt, the impact of general economic conditions in the areas in which the Company or its customers operate, including the semiconductor manufacturing and oil and gas industries, risks associated with manufacturing activities, changes in laws and regulations including the adoption of new environmental laws and regulations and changes in how they are interpreted and enforced, increased competition, the lack of availability of qualified personnel or management, limited availability of raw materials, fluctuations in commodity prices, foreign exchange or interest rates, stock market volatility and obtaining required approvals of regulatory authorities. As a result of these risks and uncertainties, the Company's future results, performance or achievements could differ materially from those expressed in these forward-looking statements. All statements included in this press release that address activities, events or developments that the Company expects, believes or anticipates will or may occur in the future are forward-looking statements. These statements are based on assumptions made by the Company based on its experience, perception of historical trends, current conditions, expected future developments and other factors it believes are appropriate in the circumstances. Please see "Risks Factors" in our Annual Information Form available under the Company's profile at www.sedarplus.ca , for information on the risks and uncertainties associated with our business. Readers should not place undue reliance on forward-looking information and statements, which speak only as of the date made. The forward-looking information and statements contained in this release represent our expectations as of the date of this release. We disclaim any intention or obligation or undertaking to update or revise any forward-looking information or statements whether as a result of new information, future events or otherwise, except as required under applicable securities laws. 1 IBC reports non-IFRS measures such as "Adjusted EBITDA", "Operating Income," "Continuing Operations," "Discontinued Operations" and "'Combined Continuing and Discontinued Operations." Please see information on this and other non-IFRS measures in the "Non-IFRS Measures" section of this news release and in IBC's MD&A, available on sedarplus.ca . SOURCE: IBC Advanced Alloys Corp. View the original on accesswire.com

By KAREEM CHEHAYEB BEIRUT (AP) — In 2006, after a bruising monthlong war between Israel and Lebanon’s powerful Hezbollah militant group, the United Nations Security Council unanimously voted for a resolution to end the conflict and pave the way for lasting security along the border. But while there was relative calm for nearly two decades, Resolution 1701’s terms were never fully enforced. Now, figuring out how to finally enforce it is key to a U.S.-brokered ceasefire deal approved by Israel on Tuesday. In late September, after nearly a year of low-level clashes , the conflict between Israel and Hezbollah spiraled into all-out war and an Israeli ground invasion . As Israeli jets pound deep inside Lebanon and Hezbollah fires rockets deeper into northern Israel, U.N. and diplomatic officials again turned to the 2006 resolution in a bid to end the conflict. Years of deeply divided politics and regionwide geopolitical hostilities have halted substantial progress on its implementation, yet the international community believes Resolution 1701 is still the brightest prospect for long-term stability between Israel and Lebanon. Almost two decades after the last war between Israel and Hezbollah, the United States led shuttle diplomacy efforts between Lebanon and Israel to agree on a ceasefire proposal that renewed commitment to the resolution, this time with an implementation plan to try to bring the document back to life. What is UNSC Resolution 1701? In 2000, Israel withdrew its forces from most of southern Lebanon along a U.N.-demarcated “Blue Line” that separated the two countries and the Israeli-annexed Golan Heights, which most of the world considers occupied Syrian territory. U.N. peacekeeping forces in Lebanon, known as UNIFIL , increased their presence along the line of withdrawal. Resolution 1701 was supposed to complete Israel’s withdrawal from southern Lebanon and ensure Hezbollah would move north of the Litani River, keeping the area exclusively under the Lebanese military and U.N. peacekeepers. Up to 15,000 U.N. peacekeepers would help to maintain calm, return displaced Lebanese and secure the area alongside the Lebanese military. The goal was long-term security, with land borders eventually demarcated to resolve territorial disputes. The resolution also reaffirmed previous ones that call for the disarmament of all armed groups in Lebanon — Hezbollah among them. “It was made for a certain situation and context,” Elias Hanna, a retired Lebanese army general, told The Associated Press. “But as time goes on, the essence of the resolution begins to hollow.” Has Resolution 1701 been implemented? For years, Lebanon and Israel blamed each other for countless violations along the tense frontier. Israel said Hezbollah’s elite Radwan Force and growing arsenal remained, and accused the group of using a local environmental organization to spy on troops. Lebanon complained about Israeli military jets and naval ships entering Lebanese territory even when there was no active conflict. “You had a role of the UNIFIL that slowly eroded like any other peacekeeping with time that has no clear mandate,” said Joseph Bahout, the director of the Issam Fares Institute for Public Policy at the American University of Beirut. “They don’t have permission to inspect the area without coordinating with the Lebanese army.” UNIFIL for years has urged Israel to withdraw from some territory north of the frontier, but to no avail. In the ongoing war, the peacekeeping mission has accused Israel, as well as Hezbollah , of obstructing and harming its forces and infrastructure. Hezbollah’s power, meanwhile, has grown, both in its arsenal and as a political influence in the Lebanese state. The Iran-backed group was essential in keeping Syrian President Bashar Assad in power when armed opposition groups tried to topple him, and it supports Iran-backed groups in Iraq and Yemen. It has an estimated 150,000 rockets and missiles, including precision-guided missiles pointed at Israel, and has introduced drones into its arsenal . Hanna says Hezbollah “is something never seen before as a non-state actor” with political and military influence. How do mediators hope to implement 1701 almost two decades later? Israel’s security Cabinet approved the ceasefire agreement late Tuesday, according to Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu’s office. The ceasefire is set to take hold at 4 a.m. local time Wednesday. Efforts led by the U.S. and France for the ceasefire between Israel and Hezbollah underscored that they still view the resolution as key. For almost a year, Washington has promoted various versions of a deal that would gradually lead to its full implementation. International mediators hope that by boosting financial support for the Lebanese army — which was not a party in the Israel-Hezbollah war — Lebanon can deploy some 6,000 additional troops south of the Litani River to help enforce the resolution. Under the deal, an international monitoring committee headed by the United States would oversee implementation to ensure that Hezbollah and Israel’s withdrawals take place. It is not entirely clear how the committee would work or how potential violations would be reported and dealt with. The circumstances now are far more complicated than in 2006. Some are still skeptical of the resolution’s viability given that the political realities and balance of power both regionally and within Lebanon have dramatically changed since then. “You’re tying 1701 with a hundred things,” Bahout said. “A resolution is the reflection of a balance of power and political context.” Now with the ceasefire in place, the hope is that Israel and Lebanon can begin negotiations to demarcate their land border and settle disputes over several points along the Blue Line for long-term security after decades of conflict and tension.Two high school students and their families sued their high school and school district, alleging violations of their First and Fourteenth Amendment rights as well as Title IX protection. A California high school caved to a student uprising after hundreds of students showed up wearing T-shirts that read "Save Girls' Sports" to protest a trans athlete on the cross-country team, defying the school's latest dress code. The school had previously put students in detention for wearing the shirts. But a source told Fox News Digital that the school did not dress-code students when they showed up wearing the shirts on Wednesday. Parents of the school's students provided an update to California Family Council outreach director Sophia Lorey, claiming that administrators had a meeting Wednesday morning where faculty was instructed not to dress-code students, Lorey told Fox News Digital. "Today students once again wore their ‘Save Girls Sports’ shirts," Lorey wrote to Fox News Digital. "According to the email sent out earlier this week from MLK HS Principal Leann Iacuone only the shirts that stated ‘XX=/XY’ should receive a dress code. Yet, as of now no student who is wearing that shirt today has received a dress code. I received information that there was a staff meeting today before school were the staff was told not to dress code." CLICK HERE FOR MORE SPORTS COVERAGE ON FOXNEWS.COM Lorey added that students at neighboring schools have begun to wear the T-shirts as Martin Luther King's situation has garnered national attention. These schools include Arlington High School and Riverside Polytechnical High School, which share a school district with Martin Luther King. Ramona High School in Ramona, California, which is 83 miles south of Riverside, has also seen its students wear the shirts. The students have worn the shirts every Wednesday, resulting in discipline by school administrators. But detention and dress code violations never shuttered their spirit. Many students at the school have gone viral on social media by sharing details of the situation with photos and videos of them wearing the shirts. The student uprising came amid an ongoing lawsuit over two girls' cross-country runners who alleged their T-shirts were compared to swastikas by school administrators. Another student athlete on the school's cross-country team, Rylee Morrow, brought more national attention to the situation when she gave an impassioned speech at a school board meeting in November in a clip that went viral due to her conveyed fears of having to share a locker room with a biological male. Lorey commended the students for taking a stand and pushing the school district to withdraw its discipline on Wednesday. "By wearing their ‘Save Girls Sports’ shirts, these young leaders are showing that they won’t back down in the face of pressure or opposition - even from their own administration. It’s not just about athletics—it’s about standing up for the integrity and rights of female athletes everywhere," Lorey wrote. But anti-trans messaging isn't the only social media activity that has erupted from the school. SJSU TRANSGENDER VOLLEYBALL SCANDAL: TIMELINE OF ALLEGATIONS, POLITICAL IMPACT AND A RAGING CULTURE MOVEMENT On Wednesday, a trans athlete at the school allegedly made a private post on Instagram lashing out against detractors who have questioned and opposed trans inclusion on the school's girls' cross-country team. Multiple sources, including Lorey, have confirmed the message was posted to the athlete's private Instagram story. The athlete also allegedly expressed an intention to compete in girls' pole-vaulting and said that competing against male opponents resulted in disappointing finishes. In a statement previously provided to Fox News Digital, the Riverside Unified School District (RUSD) said it has allowed the transgender athlete to compete on the team because it must comply with California state law. "It is important to remember that RUSD is bound to follow California law which requires that students be 'permitted to participate in sex-segregated school programs and activities, including athletic teams and competitions consistent with his or her gender identity, irrespective of the gender listed on the pupil’s records,'" the statement said. "While these rules were not created by RUSD, the district is committed to complying with the law and CIF regulations. California state law prohibits discrimination of students based on gender, gender identity and gender expression and specifically prohibits discrimination on the basis of gender in physical education and athletics. The protections we provide to all students are not only aligned with the law but also with our core values, which include equity and well-being." The school said those who are upset by it should direct their anger to state and federal lawmakers. "As these matters play out in our courts and the media, opposition and protests should be directed at those in a position to affect those laws and policies, including officials in Washington, D.C., and Sacramento," the statement said. California has had laws in effect to protect transgender athletes in women's sports since 2014. That year, AB 1266 took effect , giving California students at scholastic and collegiate levels the right to "participate in sex-segregated school programs and activities, including athletic teams and competitions, and use facilities consistent with his or her gender identity, irrespective of the gender listed on the pupil’s records." Other high school and college students in California have expressed opposition to trans athletes in girls' sports. CLICK HERE TO GET THE FOX NEWS APP Students at Martin Luther King High School in Riverside, Calif., wear T-shirts with a slogan that says "Save Girls' Sports" to protest a trans athlete on the cross-country team. (Courtesy of Sophia Lorey) The girls' volleyball team at Stone Ridge Christian High School in Merced was scheduled to face San Francisco Waldorf in the Northern California Division 6 tournament in November, but it forfeited in an announcement just before the match over the presence of a trans athlete. Those girls were commended at a ceremony held by women's athletic rights activist Riley Gaines at their own high school on Dec. 4. Meanwhile, another California transgender high school volleyball player was booed and harassed at an Oct. 12 match between Notre Dame Belmont and Half Moon Bay High School, according to ABC 7. Half Moon Bay rostered the transgender athlete. At the college level, San Jose State's volleyball team was at the center of a national media firestorm this season over the presence of a transgender athlete on the team and a teammate being involved in multiple lawsuits over the issue. The team saw eight of its matches forfeited, including a conference tournament match, amid the controversy, which only brought more national attention to the team as it made it all the way to the Mountain West championship game. Follow Fox News Digital’s sports coverage on X and subscribe to the Fox News Sports Huddle newsletter . Jackson Thompson is a sports writer for Fox News Digital. He previously worked for ESPN and Business Insider. Jackson has covered the Super Bowl and NBA Finals, and has interviewed iconic figures Usain Bolt, Rob Gronkowski, Jerry Rice, Troy Aikman, Mike Trout, David Ortiz and Roger Clemens.

Fianna Fail leader Micheal Martin has said he would like to see homelessness figures to fall “within 12 months”. The number of people accessing emergency accommodation has risen at a near consistent rate in recent years, repeatedly breaking new records. The housing portfolio is held by Fianna Fail’s Darragh O’Brien. In the last of Virgin Media’s “Big Interviews” with party leaders, Mr Martin said homelessness was his party’s number one priority and the reason it sought the housing portfolio in the coalition. The official figures from the Department of Housing look at the number of people accessing emergency accommodation services over the last week of each month, and are published at 2pm on the last Friday of the following month. October’s figures are due at on polling day, November 29. The latest figures for the end of September show there were 14,760 people accessing such services, including 4,561 children – record highs for both metrics. The figures do not include people sleeping rough, those that may be couch surfing or homeless in hospitals or prisons, and those in a shelter for asylum seekers or domestic violence centres. Mr Martin said his party would not interfere with the agreed process by publishing the figures in advance of polling day. However, he accepted that there are “too many people homeless” and said homelessness is “very traumatic” for families. Speaking on Wednesday night, he said there was a need to” build more houses faster”, prevent homelessness and reduce the amount of time people rely on emergency accommodation. “The obligation is to get people out of emergency accommodation as quickly as we can, and get them a house as quickly as we can. “That is why building 40,000 social houses is progress, and we need to build 12,000 social houses a year, I think, to deal with the homelessness issue.” Asked if he was expecting the figures to be uncomfortable, he said: “We’re already uncomfortable with the homelessness figures, so next Friday isn’t going to change that to any significant degree.” Pressed on when he expected the figures to peak, Mr Martin said he did not have exact timelines and added supply needed to be increased. Asked when the figure would come down, he said: “I would like to see that within the next 12 months but I can’t give a guarantee on that. “Population is growing, and that is a factor in all of this. But we have to get up to 50,000 houses per annum.” Elsewhere, he doubled down on ruling out a Fianna Fail coalition with Sinn Fein. Mr Martin said Sinn Fein’s tax proposals would “destroy” Ireland’s enterprise economy, as he made an appeal to Irish voters before polling day on Friday. Asked how big the differences are between the two parties, he said: “They’re very substantial, fundamentally, in terms of the economic model that we have in this country.” Mr Martin said the vast majority of Fianna Fail members agreed with his position. Pressed on Fianna Fail’s past history of entering into coalition with Fine Gael in 2020 after initially ruling it out, the party leader defended that decision. He said there were a number of factors, including the argument about obligations to elect a government. He said the Fianna Fail-Fine Gael-Green coalition was able to “protect a pro-European, pro-Enterprise” model. Mr Martin said the Government was also formed in the context of a “one in 100-year” pandemic. The Fianna Fail stalwart also refused to rule out a future bid for President of Ireland, but said: “I haven’t considered it.”By CHRISTOPHER RUGABER WASHINGTON (AP) — President-elect Donald Trump on Tuesday named Andrew Ferguson as the next chair of the Federal Trade Commission . He will replace Lina Khan, who became a lightning rod for Wall Street and Silicon Valley by blocking billions of dollars’ worth of corporate acquisitions and suing Amazon and Meta while alleging anticompetitive behavior . Ferguson is already one of the FTC’s five commissioners, which is currently made up of three Democrats and two Republicans. “Andrew has a proven record of standing up to Big Tech censorship, and protecting Freedom of Speech in our Great Country,” Trump wrote on Truth Social, adding, “Andrew will be the most America First, and pro-innovation FTC Chair in our Country’s History.” Related Articles National Politics | Donald Trump is returning to the world stage. So is his trolling National Politics | Biden says he was ‘stupid’ not to put his name on pandemic relief checks like Trump did National Politics | Biden issues veto threat on bill expanding federal judiciary as partisan split emerges National Politics | Trump lawyers and aide hit with 10 additional felony charges in Wisconsin over 2020 fake electors National Politics | After withdrawing as attorney general nominee, Matt Gaetz lands a talk show on OANN television The replacement of Khan likely means that the FTC will operate with a lighter touch when it comes to antitrust enforcement. The new chair is expected to appoint new directors of the FTC’s antitrust and consumer protection divisions. “These changes likely will make the FTC more favorable to business than it has been in recent years, though the extent to which is to be determined,” wrote Anthony DiResta, a consumer protection attorney at Holland & Knight, in a recent analysis . Deals that were blocked by the Biden administration could find new life with Trump in command. For example, the new leadership could be more open to a proposed merger between the country’s two biggest supermarket chains, Kroger and Albertsons, which forged a $24.6 billion deal to combine in 2022. Two judges halted the merger Tuesday night. The FTC had filed a lawsuit in federal court earlier this year to block the merger, claiming the deal would eliminate competition, leading to higher prices and lower wages for workers. The two companies say a merger would help them lower prices and compete against bigger rivals like Walmart. One of the judges said the FTC had shown it was likely to prevail in the administrative hearing. Yet given the widespread public concern over high grocery prices, the Trump administration may not fully abandon the FTC’s efforts to block the deal, some experts have said. And the FTC may continue to scrutinize Big Tech firms for any anticompetitive behavior. Many Republican politicians have accused firms such as Meta of censoring conservative views, and some officials in Trump’s orbit, most notably Vice President-elect JD Vance, have previously expressed support for Khan’s scrutiny of Big Tech firms. In addition to Fergson, Trump also announced Tuesday that he had selected Jacob Helberg as the next undersecretary of state for economic growth, energy and the environment.Kings vs. Pelicans Injury Report Today – December 12