Rising NBA superstar Victor Wembanyama went to a park in New York City and played 1-on-1 with fans. He even lost a couple of games. Not in basketball, though. Wemby was playing chess. And this wasn't on a whim: The towering 20-year-old Frenchman knows how to play and even brought his own chess set. Before the San Antonio Spurs left New York for a flight to Minnesota, Wembanyama put out the call on social media: "Who wants to meet me at the SW corner of Washington Square park to play chess? Im there," Wembanyama wrote. It was 9:36am on Saturday. People began showing up almost immediately. Washington Square Park is a known spot for chess in New York - Bobby Fischer among others have famously played there, and it's been used for multiple movie scenes featuring the game. Wembanyama was there for an hour in the rain, from about 10-11am. He played four games, winning two and losing two - he told Bleacher Report afterward that both of the losses were to professional chess players - before departing to catch the Spurs' flight. Wembanyama had been trying to get somewhere to play chess for the bulk of the team's time in New York - the Spurs played the Knicks on Christmas and won at Brooklyn on Friday night. The schedule never aligned, until Saturday morning. And even with bad weather, he bundled up to make it happen. He posed for photos with a couple of dozen people who showed up, braving a morning of cold rain to play chess with one of the NBA's biggest stars. "We need an NBA players only Chess tournament, proceeds go to the charity of choice of the winner," he wrote on social media after his chess trip was over. The No.1 draft pick in 2023, the 221cm Wembanyama is averaging 25.2 points and 10.1 rebounds in his second NBA season after winning rookie of the year last season.VANCOUVER, BC / ACCESSWIRE / December 5, 2024 / Revolve Renewable Power Corp. (TSXV:REVV)(OTCQB:REVVF) ("Revolve" or the "Company"), a North American owner, operator and developer of renewable energy projects, is pleased to announce the results of its Annual and Special General Meeting ("ASGM") of shareholders. The Company elected eight directors to the board, namely, Steve Dalton, Omar Bojorquez, Roger Norwich, Joseph O'Farrell, Susan Shaw, Jonathan Clare, JP Maguire and Craig Lindsay. As per the news release issued on November 6, 2024, Jonathan Clare resigned as director and Michael Clark has been appointed as director to replace him. The shareholders approved all other matters as proposed in the information circular, including the appointment of Kreston GTA LLP, as auditors of the Company and the re-approval of the omnibus equity incentive plan of the Company. For a detailed listing of all resolutions at the ASGM, please go to Information Circular by visiting: https://revolve-renewablepower.com/financials/ For further information contact: Myke Clark, CEO IR@revolve-renewablepower.com 778-372-8499 About Revolve Revolve was formed in 2012 to capitalize on the growing global demand for renewable power. Revolve develops utility-scale wind, solar, hydro and battery storage projects in the US, Canada and Mexico. The Company has a second division, Revolve Renewable Business Solutions which installs and operates sub 20MW "behind the meter" distributed generation (or "DG") assets. Revolve's portfolio includes the following: Operating Assets: 11MW (net) of operating assets under long term power purchase agreements across Canada and Mexico covering wind, solar, battery storage and hydro generation; Under Construction: a 3MW CHP project and a 450kWp rooftop solar project that are both under construction and expected to be operational in 2025; and Development: a diverse portfolio of utility scale development projects across the US, Canada and Mexico with a combined capacity of over 3,000MWs as well as a 140MW+ distributed generation portfolio that is under development. Revolve has an accomplished management team with a demonstrated track record of taking projects from "greenfield" through to "ready to build" status and successfully concluding project sales to large operators of utility-scale renewable energy projects. To-date, Revolve has developed and sold over 1,550MW of projects. Going forward, Revolve is targeting 5,000MW of utility-scale projects under development in the US, Canada and Mexico, and in parallel is rapidly growing its portfolio of revenue-generating DG assets. Forward Looking Information The forward-looking statements contained in this news release constitute ‘‘forward-looking information'' within the meaning of applicable securities laws in each of the provinces and territories of Canada and the respective policies, regulations and rules under such laws and ‘‘forward-looking statements'' within the meaning of the U.S. Private Securities Litigation Reform Act of 1995 (collectively, ‘‘forward-looking statements"). The words "will", "expects", "estimates", "projections", "forecast", "intends", "anticipates", "believes", "targets" (and grammatical variations of such terms) and similar expressions are often intended to identify forward-looking statements, although not all forward-looking statements contain these identifying words. Forward looking statements in this press release include statements with respect to the proposed acquisition of the Project. This forward-looking information and other forward-looking information are based on our opinions, estimates and assumptions considering our experience and perception of historical trends, current conditions and expected future developments, as well as other factors that we currently believe are appropriate and reasonable in the circumstances. Despite a careful process to prepare and review the forward-looking information, there can be no assurance that the underlying opinions, estimates and assumptions will prove to be correct. Material factors underlying forward-looking information and management's expectations include: the receipt of applicable regulatory approvals; the absence of material adverse regulatory decisions being received and the expectation of regulatory stability; the absence of any material equipment breakdown or failure; availability of financing on commercially reasonable terms and the stability of credit ratings of the Company and its subsidiaries; the absence of unexpected material liabilities or uninsured losses; the continued availability of commodity supplies and stability of commodity prices; the absence of interest rate increases or significant currency exchange rate fluctuations; the absence of significant operational, financial or supply chain disruptions or liability, including relating to import controls and tariffs; the continued ability to maintain systems and facilities to ensure their continued performance; the absence of a severe and prolonged downturn in general economic, credit, social or market conditions; the successful and timely development and construction of new projects; the absence of capital project or financing cost overruns; sufficient liquidity and capital resources; the continuation of long term weather patterns and trends; the absence of significant counterparty defaults; the continued competitiveness of electricity pricing when compared with alternative sources of energy; the realization of the anticipated benefits of the Company's acquisitions and joint ventures; the absence of a change in applicable laws, political conditions, public policies and directions by governments, materially negatively affecting the Company; the ability to obtain and maintain licenses and permits; maintenance of adequate insurance coverage; the absence of material fluctuations in market energy prices; the absence of material disputes with taxation authorities or changes to applicable tax laws; continued maintenance of information technology infrastructure and the absence of a material breach of cybersecurity; the successful implementation of new information technology systems and infrastructure; favourable relations with external stakeholders; our ability to retain key personnel; our ability to maintain and expand distribution capabilities; and our ability to continue investing in infrastructure to support our growth. Such uncertainties and risks may include, among others, market conditions, delays in obtaining or failure to obtain required regulatory approvals in a timely fashion, or at all; the availability of financing, fluctuating prices, the possibility of project cost overruns, mechanical failure, unavailability of parts and supplies, labour disturbances, interruption in transportation or utilities, adverse weather conditions, and unanticipated costs and expenses, variations in the cost of energy or materials or supplies or environmental impacts on operations, disruptions to the Company's supply chains; changes to regulatory environment, including interpretation of production tax credits; armed hostilities and geopolitical conflicts; risks related to the development and potential development of the Company's projects; conclusions of economic evaluations; changes in project parameters as plans continue to be refined; the availability of tax incentives in connection with the development of renewable energy projects and the sale of electrical energy; as well as those factors discussed in the sections relating to risk factors discussed in the Company's continuous disclosure filings on SEDAR+ at sedarplus.ca . There can be no assurance that such statements will prove to be accurate, and actual results and future events could differ materially from those anticipated in such statements. Readers are cautioned that given these risks, undue reliance should not be placed on these forward-looking statements, which apply only as of their dates. Other than as specifically required by law, the Company undertakes no obligation to update any forward-looking statements to reflect new information, subsequent or otherwise. The Company does not intend, and expressly disclaims any intention or obligation to, update or revise any forward-looking statements whether because of new information, future events or otherwise, except as required by law. Such statements and information reflect the current view of the Company. By their nature, forward-looking statements involve known and unknown risks, uncertainties and other factors which may cause our actual results, performance or achievements, or other future events, to be materially different from any future results, performance or achievements expressed or implied by such forward-looking statements.The forward-looking information contained in this press release represents the expectations of the Company as of the date of this press release and, accordingly, is subject to change after such date. Readers should not place undue importance on forward-looking information and should not rely upon this information as of any other date. The Company does not undertake to update this information at any time except as required in accordance with applicable laws. "Neither TSX Venture Exchange nor its Regulation Services Provider (as defined in the policies of the TSX Venture Exchange) accepts responsibility for the adequacy or accuracy of this release." SOURCE: Revolve Renewable Power Corp. View the original on accesswire.com

Syrian authorities crack down on ‘remnants’ of Bashar al-Assad’s rule

The results of Milei’s bold economic planThe United States saw an 18.1% increase in homelessness this year, a dramatic rise driven mostly by a lack of affordable housing as well as devastating natural disasters and a surge of migrants in several parts of the country, federal officials said Friday. The U.S. Department of Housing and Urban Development said federally required tallies taken across the country in January found more than 770,000 people were counted as homeless — a number that misses some people and does not include those staying with friends or family because they don't have a place of their own. That increase comes on top of a 12% increase in 2023, which HUD blamed on soaring rents and the end of COVID-19 pandemic assistance. The 2023 increase also was driven by people experiencing homelessness for the first time. The numbers overall represent 23 of every 10,000 people in the U.S., with Black people being overrepresented among the homeless population. People are also reading... A man walks past a homeless encampment Oct. 25, 2023, in downtown Los Angeles. Jae C. Hong, Associated Press "No American should face homelessness, and the Biden-Harris Administration is committed to ensuring every family has access to the affordable, safe, and quality housing they deserve," HUD Agency Head Adrianne Todman said in a statement, adding that the focus should remain on "evidence-based efforts to prevent and end homelessness." Among the most concerning trends was a nearly 40% rise in family homelessness — one of the areas that was most affected by the arrival of migrants in big cities. Family homelessness more than doubled in 13 communities impacted by migrants including Denver, Chicago and New York City, according to HUD, while it rose less than 8% in the remaining 373 communities. Almost 150,000 children experienced homelessness on a single night in 2024, reflecting a 33% jump from last year. Disasters also played a part in the rise in the count, especially last year's catastrophic Maui wildfire, the deadliest U.S. wildfire in more than a century. More than 5,200 people were in emergency shelters in Hawaii on the night of the count. Louisiana Wildlife and Fisheries agents assist state police as they order people living in a homeless encampment to move to a different designated location during a sweep ahead of a Taylor Swift concert in New Orleans. Gerald Herbert, Associated Press "Increased homelessness is the tragic, yet predictable, consequence of underinvesting in the resources and protections that help people find and maintain safe, affordable housing," Renee Willis, incoming interim CEO of the National Low Income Housing Coalition, said in a statement. "As advocates, researchers, and people with lived experience have warned, the number of people experiencing homelessness continues to increase as more people struggle to afford sky-high housing costs." Robert Marbut Jr., the former executive director of the U.S. Interagency Council on Homelessness from 2019 to 2021, called the nearly 33% increase in homelessness over the past four years "disgraceful" and said the federal government needs to abandon efforts to prioritize permanent housing. "We need to focus on treatment of substance use and mental illness, and bring back program requirements, like job training," Marbut said in an email. Listen now and subscribe: Apple Podcasts | Spotify | RSS Feed | SoundStack | All Of Our Podcasts The numbers also come as increasing numbers of communities are taking a hard line against homelessness. People living in a homeless encampment pick up belongings Oct. 23 after Louisiana State Police ordered them to move to a different designated location during a sweep ahead of a Taylor Swift concert in New Orleans. Gerald Herbert, Associated Press Angered by often dangerous and dirty tent camps, communities — especially in Western states — have enforced bans on camping. That follows a 6-3 ruling this summer by the Supreme Court that found outdoor sleeping bans don’t violate the Eighth Amendment. Homeless advocates argued that punishing people who need a place to sleep would criminalize homelessness. There was some positive news in the count, as homelessness among veterans continued to trend downward. Homelessness among veterans dropped 8% to 32,882 in 2024. It was an even larger decrease for unsheltered veterans, declining 11% to 13,851 in 2024. "The reduction in veteran homelessness offers us a clear roadmap for addressing homelessness on a larger scale," Ann Oliva, CEO of the National Alliance to End Homelessness, said in a statement. "With bipartisan support, adequate funding, and smart policy solutions, we can replicate this success and reduce homelessness nationwide. Federal investments are critical in tackling the country's housing affordability crisis and ensuring that every American has access to safe, stable housing." Several large cities had success bringing down their homeless numbers. Dallas, which worked to overhaul its homeless system, saw a 16% drop in its numbers between 2022 to 2024. Los Angeles, which increased housing for the homeless, saw a drop of 5% in unsheltered homelessness since 2023. A rat sniffs the hand of a sleeping man experiencing homelessness Dec. 18 in downtown Los Angeles. Damian Dovarganes, Associated Press California, the most populous state in the U.S., continued to have the nation's largest homeless population, followed by New York, Washington, Florida and Massachusetts. The sharp increase in the homeless population over the past two years contrasts with success the U.S. had for more than a decade. Going back to the first 2007 survey, the U.S. made steady progress for about a decade in reducing the homeless population as the government focused particularly on increasing investments to get veterans into housing. The number of homeless people dropped from about 637,000 in 2010 to about 554,000 in 2017. The numbers ticked up to about 580,000 in the 2020 count and held relatively steady over the next two years as Congress responded to the COVID-19 pandemic with emergency rental assistance, stimulus payments, aid to states and local governments and a temporary eviction moratorium. Emergency housing resources for older Americans in need Emergency housing resources for older Americans in need Homelessness is intertwined with the cost of living, and the high cost of living is hitting older adults fairly hard. A Westat survey for the Department of Health and Human Services found that older adults are the fastest-growing cohort of the homeless population. Emergency housing for seniors can keep that number from climbing higher. Caring.com details how to access it.The number of homeless seniors isn't based solely on people remaining homeless as they age; it also includes those whose first experience with homelessness came after they turned 50. In 2023, The U.S. Department of Housing and Urban Development (HUD) reported that 1 in 5 homeless people were over the age of 55.For seniors and other older adults, fixed incomes make it hard to battle the ever-increasing cost of expenses. Endhomelessness.org cites that 2.35 million older adults are paying over half of their limited income to rent. Based on Caring.com's July 2024 survey of seniors in the workforce, that's exactly why 1 in 15 retired seniors worry about losing their homes. Shelter use in homeless people older than 51 has gone up over 10% from 2007 to 2017, according to the HUD. But luckily, so has the number of shelters. Between 2022 and 2023, the HUD reports that emergency shelters added 28,760 more beds in emergency shelters, though this is a reduction in the amount of beds available during the thick of the COVID-19 pandemic.What Is Emergency Housing?Emergency homeless assistance, or emergency housing, is a temporary solution. It's designed to provide shelter while those facing housing instability figure out their next step. Emergency housing for homeless seniors gives someone the immediate ability to remain housed and safely sheltered. Local nonprofits are often involved in placing people experiencing homelessness or housing instability into emergency shelters. Low-income seniors, seniors who are low on funds and might not make rent, or seniors who need to leave their homes for other reasons can use emergency housing.How To Find Emergency Housing For SeniorsMany cities have their own emergency housing programs. There are also nationwide programs that provide emergency housing for seniors. The internet is the fastest tool for locating local emergency housing. Libraries have free internet access, for those who might not have a computer or Wi-Fi to begin their search. The list below leads to websites that include phone numbers for emergency homeless assistance.Senior Programs for Emergency Housing Crisis Hotline 2-1-1Seniors in need of immediate assistance and resources should call 2-1-1 or contact the United Way online. The 2-1-1 crisis hotline partners with United Way, which is committed to helping homeless seniors find local shelters or access transitional housing. The service can also connect seniors with other resources, including food, mental health support, or funding for health care expenses. Calling 2-1-1 is often required as a prerequisite before trying to get into a shelter or obtaining other assistance.Eligibility informationBecause 2-1-1 is for people in crisis, there are no eligibility requirements. However, some programs seniors may access through 2-1-1 do have eligibility requirements.Application informationSeniors can simply dial 2-1-1 from nearly anywhere in the U.S. to be put in touch with the programs and resources they need.Housing Choice Voucher ProgramDesigned specifically for seniors, people with disabilities, and low-income families, the Housing Choice Voucher Program is a federal program offering low-income housing options and rent assistance. These vouchers are available through your local public housing agency (PHA).This program enables and encourages participants to choose their own housing. Housing options don't need to be a part of subsidized housing projects, but there are limits on unit size. Typically, participants must pay 30% of their monthly adjusted income towards their rent, and the voucher program pays the remainder.Eligibility information Applicant income and family size help the PHA determine eligibility. Citizenship and eligible immigration status also play a factor. The family's income cannot exceed 50% of the median income for the county or metropolitan area where they're applying to live. Of the vouchers, 75% must go to people whose income is at or less than 30% of their area's median income.Application information Contact your local public housing agency.Section 202 Supportive Housing for the Elderly ProgramThe Section 202 program helps expand the supply of affordable housing with supportive services for seniors. This program gives low-income seniors options that allow them to live independently, with support for cooking, cleaning, transportation, etc.Eligibility information This program is open to any very low-income household that has at least one person 62 years old or older.Application information Applicants must submit an application in response to a Notice of Funding Availability (NOFA) posted on Grants.gov.U.S Department of Housing and Urban Development-VA Supportive Housing Voucher (HUD-VASH)The HUD-VASH program was created as emergency homeless assistance for veterans. Its goal is to give homeless veterans access to permanent housing through public housing authorities. Veterans receive rental assistance through the HUD Housing Choice Voucher program and additional case management services through the VA. By December 2023, the HUD had allocated nearly 112,000 vouchers to help house veterans nationwide.To help veterans achieve stability and remain housed, VA case managers may connect veterans with support services such as health care, mental health treatment, and substance use counseling. Eligibility information If you or your loved one is a low-income senior with eligible military service, you may apply. Your local VA can tell you if your service qualifies you for HUD-VASH.Application informationSenior veterans may apply online or call (877) 424-3838.Emergency Housing Resources by StateClick here to learn more about the emergency housing options for seniors available in your state.The Bottom LineLow-income seniors who aren't in assisted living or independent living communities might find themselves facing housing instability. Emergency housing for seniors can help you or your loved one seek shelter. Crisis hotlines and public housing agencies can offer support.Senior Emergency Housing FAQHow long does it take to find emergency senior housing?Finding emergency housing for seniors depends heavily on your area. The first step is to call the Crisis Hotline at 2-1-1. Finding a shelter takes less time than applying and getting approved for low-income housing voucher programs. The 2-1-1 hotline can direct you to local resources and locators.Is there a limit to how long a senior can live in emergency housing?Yes and no. The duration depends on the type of housing. Shelters have limits that vary. Some shelters allow people to stay for up to six months, though that can vary based on demand. Seniors can remain in Section 202 supportive housing as long as they meet age and income requirements.Is there additional assistance for disabled seniors facing homelessness?Yes. Many counties have financial emergency programs that help seniors handle home repairs or short-term financial crises like utility shutoff. These programs allow the senior to focus their funds on their rent or mortgage.This story was produced by Caring.com and reviewed and distributed by Stacker Media. ShotPrime Studio // Shutterstock What Is Emergency Housing? How To Find Emergency Housing For Seniors Senior Programs for Emergency Housing Crisis Hotline 2-1-1 Housing Choice Voucher Program Section 202 Supportive Housing for the Elderly Program U.S Department of Housing and Urban Development-VA Supportive Housing Voucher (HUD-VASH) Emergency Housing Resources by State The Bottom Line Senior Emergency Housing FAQ Get Government & Politics updates in your inbox!

ESTERO, Fla. (AP) — Sydney Shaw scored 20 points and made four 3-pointers, JJ Quinerly added 14 points and No. 12 West Virginia handed Boise State its first loss, 82-47 on Saturday in the Gulf Coast Showcase. West Virginia advances to the championship game on Sunday, while Boise State plays for third place. The Mountaineers have started 8-0 in back-to-back seasons after last year's 11-0 beginning. Quinerly also had three steals to help West Virginia reach double figures in that category in every game this season. The Mountaineers also forced 20-plus turnovers for the eighth straight game. Boise State was held to just six points in the first and third quarters. West Virginia went on two 10-0 runs in the first quarter to build a 16-point lead. The Mountaineers led by double figures the rest of the way. It was 45-23 at halftime then Quinerly scored four straight points to begin a 9-0 run that ended in a 32-point lead. Freshman Jordan Thomas, coming off her first career double-double, had 10 points and six rebounds for West Virginia. Elodie Lalotte scored 11 points for Boise State (7-1). Teryn Gardner addd 10. West Virginia was coming off an 89-54 victory over High Point on Friday to begin the tournament. The Mountaineers led by as many as 39 points and forced 22 turnovers in that one. ___ Get poll alerts and updates on the AP Top 25 throughout the season. Sign up here . AP women’s college basketball: https://apnews.com/hub/ap-top-25-womens-college-basketball-poll and https://apnews.com/hub/womens-college-basketball

A year ago, a gripping ITV drama triggered outrage over the Post Office scandal. Lead campaigner Sir Alan Bates hoped a new Government would at last deliver compensation. Sadly, he was wrong... By KATHRYN KNIGHT Published: 23:39, 27 December 2024 | Updated: 23:39, 27 December 2024 e-mail View comments The letters tumbling on to the mat come from across the world – France , Australia, the US and many more – some just addressed to 'Alan Bates, North Wales.' 'They always seem to find me,' says Alan Bates (now Sir Alan) with a smile. 'I've kept some of the envelopes as it's quite amusing.' But then 70-year-old Bates is something of a worldwide name, much to his surprise. It's all courtesy of his David-versus-Goliath fight for justice for victims of the Post Office Horizon IT scandal – and the ITV drama, Mr Bates vs the Post Office – that brought the story to the world, the first episode of which was broadcast a year ago, on New Year's Day. Against the expectations of the producers, who worried it would not stand up to more obviously bankable programmes, it became the biggest drama of the year. It got 14 million viewers, provoked widespread outrage and made a hero of the unassuming but dogged ex-subpostmaster Bates. And it's been quite the year since: knighted by Princess Anne at a ceremony at Windsor Castle in September, he also married long-term partner Suzanne Sercombe on Sir Richard Branson 's Necker Island. The Virgin tycoon even officiated. Throughout it all there's been the Post Office inquiry, which ended last week after nearly three years and 300 witnesses. It included the extraordinary spectacle of shamed ex-Post Office boss Paula Vennells sobbing in the packed inquiry room. Sir Alan Bates with his wife Suzanne after he was knighted at an investiture ceremony at Windsor Castle in September Sir Richard Branson officiates at their wedding on Necker Island, which took place a month before Alan's knighthood ceremony Alan and Suzanne, speaking exclusively to the Mail from their cottage in Colwyn Bay, Denbighshire, were not exactly moved by this. 'We caught sight of a headline that said Vennells thinks the media were not fair to her. And I just thought "diddums",' says Suzanne, 69. 'She always stuck to the same line – she didn't know anything because she wasn't told anything.' 'It's like saying, "I wasn't in charge really", isn't it?' says Bates, his eyebrows raised. Make no mistake, while the couple have much to celebrate after this busy year, both are still feel a burning injustice, at the 'corporate amnesia' of post office mandarins and the marathon struggle for financial redress. 'That's still my number one role, and I will not settle until that happens,' says Bates. 'But the Government refuses to have deadlines, and they've changed the rules along the way. It's disgusting and it's continuing the injury. It's also wasting a huge amount of money: there's about £700million that has been spent on lawyers' fees so far.' 'I don't think anyone realised it would take so long,' adds Suzanne. Clearly, the pair have an extraordinary stamina – particularly Suzanne, now by Alan's side for 34 years. A steadfast presence in his life, a role she admits has not always been easy – 'you do feel a bit left out sometimes,' she confides – their long-standing relationship took a unexpected turn when, in June, Alan was knighted. He'd turned down an OBE earlier in the year, on principle. 'Paula Vennells got her CBE for services to the Post Office,' he says. 'What service was that, other than ruin a national institution? It's absolutely diabolical, so it would have been an insult to everyone involved. I couldn't take it.' In February, however, Vennells had her CBE stripped for 'bringing the honours system into disrepute'. So in June, Alan felt able to accept a knighthood for services to justice in King Charles' birthday honours. 'It's quite funny actually, as the day I got offered the knighthood was Paula Vennells's first day at the tribunal,' recalls Alan. Toby Jones as Alan in ITV’s hit drama Mr Bates vs the Post Office - that brought the story to the world, the first episode of which was broadcast a year ago, on New Year's Day What the couple – more specifically Suzanne – hadn't anticipated was that, despite being together for over three decades, the fact they were unmarried would come with its own issues when Alan was knighted. 'I had been warned before that if it should happen, I wouldn't be entitled to call myself Lady,' Suzanne recalls. 'I thought, 'I'm just going to have to live with that'. 'But it was actually quite difficult as it made things very awkward. Some people were a bit cruel about it, and kept pointing it out, which I thought was very unnecessary. 'I began to have a bit of an uncomfortable time, and Alan picked up on that. So I think that's what gave it a little bit of a kick as well.' 'It' being the surprise wedding, a month before the knighthood ceremony, on the Caribbean island of Necker – organised behind Suzanne's back with Sir Richard Branson as officiant. The business magnate offered the couple a holiday there after reading they'd not had a proper break in decades. Today, Bates has nothing but praise for Branson. 'We spent quite a bit of time with Richard and he put us very much at ease,' he says. He was also able to give him a useful insight ahead of Bates's big day at Windsor. 'Because he'd been knighted, he knew the ropes and he said when you go, it's a bit strange, because you don't get offered a cup of tea or anything. And it's true. It's very in and out.' Today, Suzanne confides she's more than happy to be Lady Bates. 'I think it's very useful, you're in an awkward situation, and you can exert or give a little impression of power,' she says with a wry smile. 'So yes. I'm very happy to use it.' Titles aside though, the Bates's priorities haven't changed and they remain determined to fight for those whose lives have been ruined. The backdrop to their battle barely needs retelling, so well cemented is it in the public mind as one of the biggest miscarriages of justice in modern British history. From the mid-1990s, the Post Office rolled out faulty software, Horizon, provided by the Japanese firm Fujitsu, which led them to wrongly conclude that hundreds of postmasters were stealing money. Many were taken to court, convicted of fraud and imprisoned. Others took their own lives due to financial pressures and shame. 'People have died since the fight began without clearing their names, says Bates. 'There are people being backed into settlements because of age and illness. I know someone in their 80s who has been at this for 20 odd years, and they just accepted an offer as they cannot go on further.' The shamed ex-Post Office boss Paula Vennells. In February, she had her CBE stripped for 'bringing the honours system into disrepute' Despite the length of Alan and Suzanne's battle, it wasn't until last January that interest peaked when the ITV drama introduced millions of viewers to the injustice done to subpostmasters and mistresses It says much that Bates thinks of himself as one of the 'lucky' ones –despite a fight that has consumed over two decades. With Suzanne, then a special needs teacher, in May 1998 Alan Bates took over The Wool Post, a post office and haberdashery in Craig-y-Don, Llandudno, North Wales, investing £65,000. Five years later – after repeated attempts to raise concerns over the accounting system – his contract was terminated and while he was not prosecuted, his £65,000 investment wasn't returned. Convinced corporate chicanery was at play, Bates sought out other subpostmasters in the same position and went on to found the Justice For Subpostmasters Alliance, comprising 555 subpostmasters who went on to successfully take the Post Office to court. It was a debilitating fight. While following two favourable judgments the group accepted a settlement of £57.75 million, the 555 claimants were left with little money after legal fees were paid. So the fight went on. An independent inquiry was set up in September 2020, becoming a statutory inquiry six months later. This gave the chair powers to call witnesses – including Vennells and other senior figures who seemed unable to recall key decisions. The Metropolitan Police are now investigating whether criminality is involved. 'If they hadn't, we as a group would have been looking at going after private prosecutions. But it's great that the Met are involved. 'I certainly wouldn't be surprised if custodial sentences come out of it,' Bates says. Despite the length of their battle – and support from the Mail and others – it wasn't until last January that interest peaked when the ITV drama introduced millions of viewers to the injustice done to subpostmasters and mistresses. 'I remember the producer saying that on the day it was aired there was lots of other stuff on – don't expect too much. then it took everyone by surprise,' Bates says. Played by actor Toby Jones, Bates admits seeing himself brought to life on screen discombobulating. 'There were a few odd things,' he smiles. 'In the drama, Toby used to go down to London in his windcheater and I think every time I went to London I was in a suit. Things like that. Read More EXCLUSIVE Exactly what happened to the Outnumbered cast: Revealed by KATHRYN KNIGHT 'But Toby did a great job, and it must have been awkward for him, because I have certain mannerisms, and I really do nag at people. He was a bit more laidback.' Adds Suzanne: 'The house they put us in in the drama is a beautiful house, but nothing like the one we actually live in. people were thinking, 'What's their problem? They live in a lovely house'.' Four different compensation schemes are currently running to reflect the different experiences of the subpostmasters involved. But while the Post Office has so far paid about £438 million to 3,100 claimants, many still have not been paid, while other families have been offered what Bates calls 'arbitrary' amounts. The scheme he is involved in – the GLO or Group Litigation Order scheme to cover the 555 involved in the original lawsuit –has already had deadlines moved, and Bates has not received a penny, having turned down an offer for around a sixth of the amount he first claimed for. With no end game in sight, he has resorted to writing to Sir Keir Starmer to expedite matters. 'I wrote to the Prime Minister on two occasions recently to ask him to set deadlines to resolve the whole of this for the GLO group, but all I got back was standard civil service letters,' he says. 'I don't know if he actually even read anything. 'Someone asked me whether the change of Government had made any difference? And I said no, because the civil service is still the same, they're the tail that's wagging the dog.' One fact remains: no amount of prosecutions or cash can buy back the years lost for those involved. 'It doesn't matter what money people get because they'll never get back those 20 years of misery,' Bates says. 'All that this money is going to do is hopefully cushion people a little bit for what's left of their lives.' He plans to write a book. 'It'll be about the early years. That's one of the things I get contacted about most – people with other fights on their hands asking how did we manage, what can we do?' 'They tend to think Alan has the answer to everything,' interjects Suzanne with a smile. Not quite everything of course. But it's clear that Sir Alan Bates could certainly teach many people a thing or two. ITV France Richard Branson Share or comment on this article: A year ago, a gripping ITV drama triggered outrage over the Post Office scandal. Lead campaigner Sir Alan Bates hoped a new Government would at last deliver compensation. Sadly, he was wrong... e-mail Add commentAP Trending SummaryBrief at 5:52 p.m. EST

Facebook Twitter WhatsApp SMS Email Print Copy article link Save DENVER — Amid renewed interest in the killing of JonBenet Ramsey triggered in part by a new Netflix documentary, police in Boulder, Colorado, refuted assertions this week that there is viable evidence and leads about the 1996 killing of the 6-year-old girl that they are not pursuing. JonBenet Ramsey, who competed in beauty pageants, was found dead in the basement of her family's home in the college town of Boulder the day after Christmas in 1996. Her body was found several hours after her mother called 911 to say her daughter was missing and a ransom note was left behind. The gravesite of JonBenet Ramsey is covered with flowers Jan. 8, 1997, at St. James Episcopal Cemetery in Marietta, Ga. JonBenet was bludgeoned and strangled. Her death was ruled a homicide, but nobody was ever prosecuted. The details of the crime and video footage of JonBenet competing in pageants propelled the case into one of the highest-profile mysteries in the United States. The police comments came as part of their annual update on the investigation, a month before the 28th anniversary of JonBenet's killing. Police said they released it a little earlier due to the increased attention on the case, apparently referring to the three-part Netflix series "Cold Case: Who Killed JonBenet Ramsey." People are also reading... City officials admit Corvallis' flag is 'bad.' Will it change? 2 bucks illegally killed with crossbow in Corvallis The real reason Corvallis' Pastega Lights moved to Linn County Commentary: Gulbranson shows he should be starter in thrilling win over Cougars Head-on crash on Highway 228 kills 1, injures 2 OSU football: Three takeaways from Oregon State's loss at Boise State Linn County deputy resigns during menacing case More allegations against ex-OSU coach Corvallis homes in on layout options for a new government center Corvallis man gets prison for armed robbery case OSU football: Boise State's pass rush is formidable A busy day: A series of crashes in Sweet Home OSU football: Preview and prediction for regular-season finale against Boise State OSU football: Game notes for the Beavers' win over Washington State Prosecutor: Driver on laughing gas caused double fatal in Sweet Home In a video statement, Boulder Police Chief Steve Redfearn said the department welcomes news coverage and documentaries about the killing of JonBenet, who would have been 34 this year, as a way to generate possible new leads. He said the department is committed to solving the case but needs to be careful about what it shares about the investigation to protect a possible future prosecution. "What I can tell you though, is we have thoroughly investigated multiple people as suspects throughout the years and we continue to be open-minded about what occurred as we investigate the tips that come in to detectives," he said. The Netflix documentary focuses on the mistakes made by police and the "media circus" surrounding the case. A police officer sits in her cruiser Jan. 3, 1997, outside the home in which 6-year-old JonBenet Ramsey was found murdered Dec. 26, 1996, in Boulder, Colo. Police were widely criticized for mishandling the early investigation into her death amid speculation that her family was responsible. However, a prosecutor cleared her parents, John and Patsy Ramsey, and brother Burke in 2008 based on new DNA evidence from JonBenet's clothing that pointed to the involvement of an "unexplained third party" in her slaying. The announcement by former district attorney Mary Lacy came two years after Patsy Ramsey died of cancer. Lacy called the Ramseys "victims of this crime." John Ramsey continued to speak out for the case to be solved. In 2022, he supported an online petition asking Colorado's governor to intervene in the investigation by putting an outside agency in charge of DNA testing in the case. In the Netflix documentary, he said he advocated for several items that were not prepared for DNA testing to be tested and for other items to be retested. He said the results should be put through a genealogy database. In recent years, investigators identified suspects in unsolved cases by comparing DNA profiles from crime scenes and to DNA testing results shared online by people researching their family trees. In 2021, police said in their annual update that DNA hadn't been ruled out to help solve the case, and in 2022 noted that some evidence could be "consumed" if DNA testing is done on it. Last year, police said they convened a panel of outside experts to review the investigation to give recommendations and determine if updated technologies or forensic testing might produce new leads. In the latest update, Redfearn said that review ended but police continue to work through and evaluate a "lengthy list of recommendations" from the panel. True crime's popularity brings real change for defendants and society. It's not all good TRAVIS LOLLER Associated Press How The Monkees ended up with an FBI File | Late Edition: Crime Beat Chronicles podcast Lee Media Studio 13 min to read Receive the latest in local entertainment news in your inbox weekly!Iceland votes for new a parliament after coalition dissolved

Shares of retail giant Costco Wholesale ( COST -0.87% ) jumped 11.2% during November, according to data provided by S&P Global Market Intelligence . The company reported monthly sales results early in the month and that's all the encouragement that investors needed to send the stock to an all-time high approaching $1,000 per share. Costco's sales results for October were released on Nov. 6, showing a 7% increase from October 2023. Interestingly, management believes that sales would have been up by an even higher amount. But hurricane preparations in September pulled some sales forward. While a single-digit increase might not seem like much, Costco is one of the biggest businesses in the world with annual sales in excess of $250 billion . Therefore, gaining even a single percentage point translates to billions of dollars. Costco stock has been one of the best performing stocks of the past decade with shares up nearly 600%. And it's also been a great performer in 2024, considering the stock is up 49% year to date as of this writing. And with ongoing strong sales results, investors are reluctant to sell. More all-time highs than one Costco's stock price is hitting all-time highs but so is its valuation. The company went public nearly 40 years ago. But at a price-to-earnings (P/E) ratio of 60, Costco stock has never been more expensive than it is right now, as the chart below shows. COST PE Ratio data by YCharts. In fact, the P/E ratio for Costco stock is more than double its all-time average, which is definitely something that investors today need to take into account when making decisions to buy or sell shares. How should investors process this? In investing, there are various risks, including competition, new technologies, and changing regulations. But valuation can also present a risk. If investors today pay more than Costco is worth, they risk seeing little return on their investment even if the business performs well. This is the only pressing risk that I see with an investment in Costco stock today. And that provides a measure of comfort. Consider that the business uses a membership-based model. And right now, retention rates are high, new members are signing up, and the average age of its members is getting younger, which are all really good signs for the long-term health of the business. For this reason, I find it unlikely that Costco would post financial results bad enough to sink shares back down to more reasonable valuations. It's more likely that shares won't pull back unless there's a broad market decline. If I were a shareholder, I'd take comfort in knowing that the business is as solid as ever, and October financial results showed that. Moreover, the company just released its net sales for November, showing another 6% sales jump. So I wouldn't necessarily consider selling. That said, for those looking to buy Costco stock, it may be prudent to wait for a better price with the valuation now at unprecedented levels.Miami (Ohio), Colorado State take adjustments into Arizona Bowl

MAPUTO, Mozambique (AP) — Violence that engulfed Mozambique after the country's highest court confirmed ruling Frelimo party presidential candidate Daniel Chapo as the winner of disputed Oct. 9 elections killed at least 21 people, including two police officers, authorities said Tuesday. Mozambique Interior Minister Pascoal Ronda told a news conference in Maputo late Tuesday that a wave of violence and looting was sparked by the court's announcement a day earlier. He said it was led by mostly youthful supporters of losing candidate Venancio Mondlane, who received 24% of the vote, second to Chapo, who got 65%. “From the preliminary survey, in the last 24 hours, 236 acts of violence were recorded throughout the national territory that resulted in 21 deaths, of which two members of the Police of the Republic of Mozambique also died," Ronda said. He said 13 civilians and 12 police were injured. Ronda said 25 vehicles were set on fire, including two police vehicles. He added that 11 police subunits and a penitentiary were attacked and vandalized and 86 inmates were freed. Tensions were high in the country ahead of the The Constitutional Council ruling on Monday and violent protests started immediately after the announcement was made. Footage circulating on various social media platforms showed protesters burning and looting shops in the capital Maputo and the city of Beira, where some city officials were reported to have fled the city. Mondlane has called for a “shutdown” starting Friday but violence in the country has already escalated and the situation remained tense in the capital on Tuesday night following a day of violence and looting by protesters. The country of 34 million people has been on edge since the Oct. 9 general elections . Mondlane’s supporters, mostly hundreds of thousands of young people, have since taken to the streets, and have been met by gunfire from security forces. This brings to more than 150 the number of people who have died from post-election violence since the initial results were announced by the country's electoral body.