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Sri Lanka will soon formulate a national policy on allowing visits by foreign research vessels , Foreign Minister Vijitha Herath said in Colombo on Friday (December 20, 2024), amidst frequent docking requests from Chinese surveillance ships which raised concerns in India. Mr. Herath's comments came days after Sri Lankan President Anura Kumara Dissanayake's visit to India. Also read | After India visit, Dissanayake discusses maritime research and development with China In January, Sri Lanka enforced a year-long moratorium on foreign marine scientific research survey vessels operating in its waters and the Exclusive Economic Zone after strong security concerns were raised by India and the US following frequent docking requests from hi-tech Chinese surveillance vessels. Sri Lanka’s moratorium on allowing research vessels is still in force which would be reviewed appropriately, Herath said. Upon his return to Colombo from India, Mr. Dissanayake held a meeting with a top Chinese government official who expressed China's wish to see Chinese research ships resuming their visits to Colombo. Asked if India had raised concerns over such visits during Mr. Dissanayake's stay in India, Herath said Indian concerns were based on their national security and regional security threats. “We assured that we will not allow any action to threaten Indian security concerns by using our land," Mr. Herath said. “The visit has turned out to be one which has resulted in many achievements for the people of Sri Lanka," Mr. Herath said. "It took the relationship to a new height," he said. vHerath said that India and Sri Lanka did not seal any formal agreements during vDissanayake's visit other than signing two MoUs on training Sri Lankan public service officials and preventing dual taxation. “We have only agreed to take forward the talks related to the Economic and Technology Cooperation Agreement (ETCA). There was no final agreement on anything,” Mr. Herath said. When Mr. Dissanayake's National People's Power was not in power it had expressed bitter opposition to the agreement. Mr. Herath also rejected allegations that Dissanayake finalized an agreement in Delhi for a direct fuel pipeline and a security pact across the Palk Strait. “We were emphatic that we are for promoting trade and investment between the two countries," Mr. Herath said. Published - December 21, 2024 02:05 am IST Copy link Email Facebook Twitter Telegram LinkedIn WhatsApp Reddit Sri Lanka / international relations / diplomacy
Alarm grew in France on Friday over the fate of a prominent French-Algerian novelist detained in the country of his birth, with his publisher urging his immediate release and President Emmanuel Macron closely following the case. Boualem Sansal, a major figure in francophone modern literature, is known for his strong stances against both authoritarianism and Islamism as well as being a forthright campaigner on freedom of expression issues. His detention by Algeria comes against a background of tensions between France and its former colony which have also appear to have spread to the literary world. The 75-year-old writer, granted French nationality this year, was on Saturday arrested at Algiers airport after returning from France, according to several media reports including the Marianne weekly. The Gallimard publishing house, which has published his work for a quarter of a century, in a statement expressed "its very deep concern following the arrest of the writer by the Algerian security services", calling for his "immediate release". There has been no confirmation from the Algerian authorities of his arrest and no other details about his situation. Macron is "very concerned by the disappearance" of Sansal, said a French presidential official, asking not to be named. "State services are mobilised to clarify his situation," the official said, adding that "the president expresses his unwavering attachment to the freedom of a great writer and intellectual." A relative latecomer to writing, Sansal turned to novels in 1999 and has tackled subjects including the horrific 1990s civil war between authorities and Islamists. His books are not banned in Algeria but he is a controversial figure, particularly since making a visit to Israel in 2014. Sansal's hatred of Islamism has not been confined to Algeria and he has also warned of a creeping Islamisation in France, a stance that has made him a favoured author of prominent figures on the right and far-right. Prominent politicians from this side of the political spectrum rushed to echo Macron's expression of concern for the writer. Centre-right former premier and candidate in 2027 presidential elections Edouard Philippe wrote on X that Sansal "embodies everything we cherish: the call for reason, freedom and humanism against censorship, corruption and Islamism." Far-right figurehead Marine Le Pen, another possible 2027 contender, said: "This freedom fighter and courageous opponent of Islamism has reportedly been arrested by the Algerian regime. This is an unacceptable situation." In 2015, Sansal won the Grand Prix du Roman of the French Academy, the guardians of the French language, for his book "2084: The End of the World", a dystopian novel inspired by George Orwell's "Nineteen-Eighty Four" and set in an Islamist totalitarian world in the aftermath of a nuclear holocaust. His publisher said that Sansal's novels and essays "exposed the obscurantisms of all kinds which are tragically affecting the way of the world." The concerns about his reported arrest come as another prominent French-Algerian writer Kamel Daoud is under attack over his novel "Houris", which won France's top literary prize, the Goncourt. A woman has claimed the book was based on her story of surviving 1990s Islamist massacres and used without her consent. She alleged on Algerian television that Daoud used the story she confidentially recounted to a therapist -- who is now his wife -- during treatment. His publisher has denied the claims. The controversies are taking place in a tense diplomatic context between France and Algeria, after Macron renewed French support for Moroccan sovereignty over the disputed territory of Western Sahara during a landmark visit to the kingdom last month. Western Sahara, a former Spanish colony, is de facto controlled for the most part by Morocco. But it is claimed by the Sahrawi separatists of the Polisario Front, who are demanding a self-determination referendum and are supported by Algiers. Daoud meanwhile has called for Sansal's release, writing in the right-wing Le Figaro: "I sincerely hope that my friend Boualem will return to us very soon", while expressing his bafflement in the face of the "imprudence" that Sansal allegedly showed in going to Algeria. dax-vl-sjw/givJustus McNair's midcourt 3-pointer at the buzzer gives Valparaiso a 76-73 win over Western MichiganDoing business in US? Don't wait for state ruling on AI to act, warns former Senate chief of staff
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Luigi Mangione’s arrest thrust his family into the spotlight. Who are the Mangiones of Baltimore?WASHINGTON — Treasury Secretary Janet Yellen said her agency will need to start taking “extraordinary measures,” or special accounting maneuvers intended to prevent the nation from hitting the debt ceiling , as early as January 14, in a letter sent to congressional leaders Friday afternoon. "Treasury expects to hit the statutory debt ceiling between January 14 and January 23," she wrote in a letter addressed to House and Senate leadership, at which point extraordinary measures would be used to prevent the government from breaching the nation's debt ceiling — which was suspended until Jan. 1, 2025. The department in the past deployed what are known as “extraordinary measures” or accounting maneuvers to keep the government operating. Once those measures run out, the government risks defaulting on its debt unless lawmakers and the president agree to lift the limit on the U.S. government’s ability to borrow. "I respectfully urge Congress to act to protect the full faith and credit of the United States," Yellen said. FILE - U.S. Treasury Secretary Janet Yellen speaks during a visit to the Financial Crimes Enforcement Network (FinCEN) in Vienna, Va., on Jan. 8, 2024. (AP Photo/Susan Walsh, File) The news came after Democratic President Joe Biden signed a bill into law last week that averted a government shutdown but did not include Republican President-elect Donald Trump’s core debt demand to raise or suspend the nation’s debt limit. Congress approved the bill only after a fierce internal debate among Republicans over how to handle Trump's demand. “Anything else is a betrayal of our country,” Trump said in a statement. After a protracted debate in the summer of 2023 over how to fund the government, policymakers crafted the Fiscal Responsibility Act, which included suspending the nation's $31.4 trillion borrowing authority until Jan. 1, 2025. Notably however, Yellen said, on Jan. 2 the debt is projected to temporarily decrease due to a scheduled redemption of nonmarketable securities held by a federal trust fund associated with Medicare payments. As a result, “Treasury does not expect that it will be necessary to start taking extraordinary measures on January 2 to prevent the United States from defaulting on its obligations," she said. The federal debt stands at about $36 trillion — after ballooning across both Republican and Democratic administrations. The spike in inflation after the COVID-19 pandemic pushed up government borrowing costs such that debt service next year will exceed spending on national security. Republicans, who will have full control of the White House, House and Senate in the new year, have big plans to extend Trump's 2017 tax cuts and other priorities but are debating over how to pay for them. Many consumers may remember receiving their first credit card, either years ago in a plain envelope, or months ago from a smartphone app. Still other consumers may remember their newest card, maybe because it's the credit card they're now using exclusively to maximize cash back rewards or airline miles. But for most consumers, there's also a murky in-between where they add, drop and generally accumulate credit cards over time. Over the years, consumers may close some credit card accounts or leave some of their credit cards dormant as a backup form of payment, or perhaps left forgotten in a desk drawer. In the data below, Experian reveals the changes in consumers wallets in recent years. U.S. consumers, on average, carry fewer cards today than they did in 2017, when the typical wallet held 4.2 active credit cards. As of the third quarter (Q3) of 2023, consumers carried 3.9 cards on average. This average is up slightly since the early days of the pandemic, when consumers reduced their average credit card debt and number of accounts as the economy slowed. As Experian revealed earlier this year, credit card balances are still climbing, despite (and partially because of) higher interest rates. And while average balances are increasing, they are spread across fewer accounts than in recent years. Alternative financing—including buy now, pay later plans for purchases—may account for at least some of this discrepancy, as consumers gravitate toward these newer financing methods. In general, residents of higher-population states tend to carry more credit cards than those who live in states with fewer and smaller population centers. Nonetheless, the difference between the states is relatively small. Considering that the national average is around four credit cards per consumer, the four states with the fewest cards per consumer (Alaska, South Dakota, Vermont and Wyoming) aren't appreciably different, with "only" about 3.3 credit cards per consumer. Similarly, the four states on the higher end of the scale where consumers have 4.2 or more credit cards are Connecticut, Delaware, Florida, New Jersey and Rhode Island. The disparity in average credit card counts is more apparent when the population is segmented by age, thanks in part to Generation Z, many of whom have yet to receive their first credit card. The average number of credit cards for these consumers was two, less than half of what older generations keep on hand. We're always interested in hearing about news in our community. Let us know what's going on! Stay up-to-date on the latest in local and national government and political topics with our newsletter.Global Nephropathic Cystinosis Treatment Market to Surpass US$ 744.3 Million by 2034 | TMR Analysis 12-24-2024 04:50 PM CET | Health & Medicine Press release from: Transparency Market Research The global nephropathic cystinosis treatment market, which was valued at US$ 332.5 million in 2023, is projected to grow at a compound annual growth rate (CAGR) of 7.4%, reaching US$ 744.3 million by 2034, according to the latest market analysis. This promising growth trajectory highlights significant advancements in treatment options and rising awareness about this rare genetic disorder. Access an overview of significant conclusions from our Report in this sample - https://www.transparencymarketresearch.com/sample/sample.php?flag=S&rep_id=32210 Market Overview Nephropathic cystinosis is a rare lysosomal storage disorder characterized by the accumulation of cystine in various organs, leading to progressive kidney damage and other systemic complications. The increasing focus on improving early diagnosis and the availability of advanced therapeutic solutions are expected to drive market growth over the forecast period. The market is segmented based on treatment type (drugs and renal transplant) and treatment availability (medication and surgery). While medications remain the cornerstone of treatment, renal transplants are often required for advanced cases, offering a critical solution to patients with end-stage renal disease. Key Drivers 1.Advancements in Therapeutics: Ongoing research and development efforts have led to the introduction of innovative drugs designed to delay disease progression and improve the quality of life for patients. The availability of cysteamine-based therapies, such as delayed-release capsules and oral solutions, has significantly improved treatment adherence and outcomes. 2.Increasing Awareness and Diagnosis Rates: Public and private initiatives aimed at raising awareness about nephropathic cystinosis are contributing to earlier diagnoses and timely interventions. This is particularly significant in regions where genetic screening programs are being implemented. 3.Rising Healthcare Expenditure: Increased healthcare spending, particularly in emerging economies, is enhancing access to advanced treatment options and specialized care for rare diseases, including nephropathic cystinosis. Market Challenges and Opportunities While the market outlook is positive, several challenges persist: •High Cost of Treatment: The expensive nature of drugs and renal transplantation procedures can limit access, especially in low-income countries. •Limited Patient Population: As a rare disease, nephropathic cystinosis has a small patient base, which poses challenges for large-scale commercialization of treatments. However, these challenges also present opportunities for innovation. Pharmaceutical companies are focusing on developing cost-effective and patient-friendly treatment modalities, such as improved formulations of cysteamine and potential gene therapies. Visit our report to explore the detailed insights and key takeaways - https://www.transparencymarketresearch.com/nephropathic-cystinosis-treatment-market.html Regional Analysis The market exhibits significant regional variations: •North America dominates the global market, owing to robust healthcare infrastructure, high awareness levels, and ongoing research initiatives. •Europe holds a substantial share, driven by government support for rare disease treatment and well-established diagnostic facilities. •Asia Pacific is anticipated to witness the fastest growth, fueled by increasing healthcare investments and rising awareness in emerging economies like China and India. •Other regions, including Latin America and the Middle East & Africa, are gradually improving access to specialized treatments through international collaborations and policy initiatives. Market Segmentation The market is primarily categorized into two segments: •Treatment Type: oDrugs: Oral and delayed-release formulations of cysteamine remain the standard of care. oRenal Transplant: Critical for advanced cases, with demand increasing as the patient population ages. •Treatment Availability: oMedication: Widely available and accessible, particularly in developed nations. oSurgery: Renal transplants are less common but essential for severe cases. Future Outlook The nephropathic cystinosis treatment market is poised for significant growth over the next decade. Innovations in therapeutic approaches, coupled with increasing global efforts to improve diagnosis and management, are likely to reshape the market landscape. The advent of gene editing technologies and targeted therapies may revolutionize treatment paradigms, offering hope for a potential cure. Companies Profiled Several leading players are contributing to the growth of the nephropathic cystinosis treatment market, including: Amgen Inc., Recordati Rare Diseases, Chiesi Farmaceutici S.p.A., Eloxx Pharmaceuticals Inc., Viatris Inc. (Mylan) These companies are actively investing in research and development to introduce novel therapies and expand their presence in emerging markets. Explore Latest Research Reports by Transparency Market Research: Paresthesia Treatment Market: https://www.transparencymarketresearch.com/paresthesia-treatment-market.html PCSK9 Inhibitor Market: https://www.transparencymarketresearch.com/pcsk9-inhibitors-market.html About Transparency Market Research Transparency Market Research, a global market research company registered at Wilmington, Delaware, United States, provides custom research and consulting services. Our exclusive blend of quantitative forecasting and trends analysis provides forward-looking insights for thousands of decision makers. Our experienced team of Analysts, Researchers, and Consultants use proprietary data sources and various tools & techniques to gather and analyses information. Our data repository is continuously updated and revised by a team of research experts, so that it always reflects the latest trends and information. With a broad research and analysis capability, Transparency Market Research employs rigorous primary and secondary research techniques in developing distinctive data sets and research material for business reports. Contact: Transparency Market Research Inc. CORPORATE HEADQUARTER DOWNTOWN, 1000 N. West Street, Suite 1200, Wilmington, Delaware 19801 USA Tel: +1-518-618-1030 USA - Canada Toll Free: 866-552-3453 Website: https://www.transparencymarketresearch.com Email: sales@transparencymarketresearch.com Follow Us: LinkedIn| Twitter| Blog | YouTube This release was published on openPR.
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The Impact Of Reservations On Open Merit Candidates The current reservation policy needs reforms for a fairer and more inclusive approach The reservation system is executed globally to boost justice for all and promote fairness for all. It aims to provide marginalized communities who have formerly endured discrimination, inequality, or deprivation, a room for progress. However, the implementation of this system may occasionally result in unfairness for open merit candidates, emphasizing the necessity for reforms to create a more balanced and just system. The objective of the reservation system is to include socially, educationally, or economically disadvantaged groups in the broader society. Yet, at times, this system deviates from its intended goal, benefiting individuals or groups who are already in a favourable socio-economic position. Consequently, not only do deserving individuals miss out on their rightful opportunities, but it also reduces the chances available to open merit candidates. The existing reservation setup in Kashmir is enforced to open doors in education, employment, and other fields to oppressed classes. When it comes to reservations in Kashmir, the government of Jammu and Kashmir currently made a decision and initiated a recruitment policy. Under this, 575 lecturer posts were announced, with 238 reserved for open merit candidates and 337 for reserved categories. It’s clear that while reservations are valid for reserved category candidates, we also need to affirm that open-merit candidates are placed in a welcoming environment so that they don’t feel segregated. This reservation policy is not confined to the Education Department but is common in all departments in Kashmir. The government needs to pay attention to this reservation approach, analyze how it affects open-merit candidates, and find ways to protect their rights. It’s imperative to maintain their career advancement and ensure they are given equitable chances without feeling neglected. The Effects of the Reservation System Positive Effects 1. Social integration: The reservation framework has empowered historically excluded populations (Scheduled Castes, Scheduled Tribes, and Other Backward Classes) to approach education, employment, and public representation. In Jammu and Kashmir, the participation of Gujjars, Bakerwals, and other groups under Scheduled Tribe categories has enhanced their social hierarchy. 2. Intellectual growth: Many people from deprived communities have achieved from avenues in higher education and scholarships, providing to a reduction in illiteracy and shrinking the educational break. In Kashmir, reservations for backward areas (such as far-flung villages) have promoted educational access in underdeveloped areas. 3. Economic upliftment: Proactive measures in public sector employment have increased economic access for excluded groups, reducing poverty in some areas. In Kashmir, reservations for defined groups have encouraged in incorporation of underprivileged communities into primary economic sectors. 4. Representation in Politics: The reservation of seats in legislatures has allowed marginalized communities to have a voice in governance. Negative Effects 1. Perceived discrimination: Critics contend that reservations can occasionally result in reverse discrimination, fostering resentment among marginalized groups, especially the economically disadvantaged sections of upper castes. In Jammu and Kashmir, certain communities feel marginalized from the advantages of the reservation system, prompting calls for their integration. 2. Restricted access: The advantages of reservations often fail to reach the most needy within the reserved categories because of a “top-tier” effect, where the more wealthy individuals within these groups gain the majority of the benefits. 3. Impact on Meritocracy: The system is criticized for potentially compromising merit in education and employment, leading to inefficiencies in some sectors. 4. Political manipulation: The reservation system is usually used as a political agenda, with parties assuring increased benefits for political advantage, periodically deepening divisions. 5. Intergroup conflict: In regions like Kashmir, the reservation system has sometimes triggered tensions between communities, especially when new groups are included in the list or when quotas are regarded as limited. While the reservation system has played a vital role in addressing historical injustices and improving the socio-economic conditions of disadvantaged groups, it also faces challenges related to its implementation and perceived fairness in both India and Jammu and Kashmir. The reservation system is a vital step toward promoting social justice, but flaws in its implementation can negatively impact open-merit candidates. To address these issues, it is essential to reform the reservation system so that it reaches the genuinely deserving and preserves the importance of merit. A balanced and transparent system will not only advance social justice but also protect the rights of open-merit candidates. Further contemplation and practical steps on this subject are the need of the hour. The writer is an English Lecturer By Athar Ul Islam [email protected]
The New York Post has published what it reports as new footage of the suspect in the shooting of UnitedHealthcare CEO Brian Thompson . In the surveillance video obtained from a cigar store on Sixth Avenue, the suspected gunman can be seen leaving a subway station at around 6:15 a.m., 30 minutes before the fatal shooting occurred in front of the Hilton Hotel in midtown Manhattan. The Post writes that it appears the suspect was leaving the 57th Street subway station, which is nearby the hotel’s location. The report did not include comment from the NYPD surrounding the footage. The NYPD previously released photos of the alleged suspect on Tuesday and Wednesday, with some taken at a nearby Starbucks before the shooting and others seemingly showing him unmasked and grinning. The suspect has yet to be identified, but several clues have since risen including the purchase of a gun seemingly linked to that used in the shooting and a phone dropped at the crime scene. A Catholic nun was among a group of 25 people arrested in Italy on Monday as part of a mafia bust for a laundry list of crimes that included extortion, drug trafficking, and money laundering. Anna Donelli, 57, of the Sisters of Charity Institute in Milan, volunteered at prisons around the city of Brescia—but a police investigation determined that her ostensibly spiritual services concealed a seedy criminal underside to her interactions with inmates, according to CNN. Prosecutors allege that she was “exploiting the very spiritual role she carried out” to run information back and forth between mob bosses and imprisoned foot soldiers for the infamous ’Ndrangheta crime syndicate. “She carried orders, directives, moral and material aid to associates, receiving in turn from the prisoners useful information to better plan criminal strategies,” prosecutor Francesco Prete said Thursday, according to CNN. Donelli’s cover story was that she was a liaison between prisoners and prison officials, in addition to refereeing soccer games at the prison. The anti-mafia operation that landed the nun and over two dozen other mobsters under arrest was carried out by over 300 officers and also resulted in the recovery of drugs, weapons, and the equivalent of nearly $2 million in cash. If you’re trying to pick up gifts for the loved ones on your list, here’s a tip: everyone appreciates the gift of softer and more manageable hair and skin. The Avon Company, North America has been in the beauty industry for over a century and stocks some of the trendiest skin care, fragrances, and personal care items on the market. These curated picks ensure your giftee will be glowing even on the dullest winter day. This moisturizer tackles one of winter’s biggest annoyances—chapped lips. It has a hydration-boosting formula that counteracts dry air while visibly softening lips and adding a glossy hint of color. 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Speaking to CNN’s Scott Jennings on his radio show , the media mogul explained the meter would allow readers to view different perspectives on a news or opinion article in real time and allow them to write or read comments on the subject matter. “What we need to do is not have what we call ‘confirmation bias’ and then that story, automatically, the reader can press a button and get both sides of that exact same story based on that story and then give comments,” Soon-Shiong explained. “Now I’m giving you some little breaking news here but this is what we’re currently building behind the scenes. And I’m hoping that by January we launch this.” The billionaire proceeded to explain his hope for the module in building “respectful disagreement” and starting a “conversation.” Following his announcement, the L.A. Times ’ editorial guild released a statement in response writing, “the newspaper’s owner has publicly suggested his staff harbors bias, without offering evidence or examples” and that they value “an earnest search to understand all sides of an issue.” Soon-Shiong notably blocked the paper from publishing a Kamala Harris endorsement in October which was met with opposition from some staff. Timothée Chalamet thanked Bob Dylan for the shoutout after the legendary singer-songwriter praised his new biopic A Complete Unknown . “Floored. I am so grateful. Thank you Bob,” Chalamet posted on X . The film, set to be released on Dec. 25, stars Chalamet as a young Dylan. “Timmy’s a brilliant actor so I’m sure he’s going to be completely believable as me. Or a younger me. Or some other me,” Dylan posted on X . Though Dylan didn’t share if he’s seen the film yet, he did recommend the book the biopic is based off of. “The film’s taken from Elijah Wald’s Dylan Goes Electric – a book that came out in 2015. It’s a fantastic retelling of events from the early ‘60s that led up to the fiasco at Newport,” he added. “After you’ve seen the movie read the book.” Dylan also gave a nod to the film’s title, A Complete Unknown , which references lyrics from Dylan’s 1965 song “Like a Rolling Stone.” “What a title!” he wrote. Scouted selects products independently. If you purchase something from our posts, we may earn a small commission. It’s not every day that you can score a deal on a high-quality printer at a lower cost. Investing in a quality printer for your home or office is a game-changer, and while it’s not the most fun purchase, it’ll pay for itself in a couple of months. Fortunately, you don’t have to pay full price for a solid printer, thanks to HP’s current sale . Right now, you can score the HP Envy Inspire 7955e , the brand’s premium at-home photo printer for $70 off. If you’re looking for a solid holiday gift that they’ll actually use, the deluxe multi-purpose printer is a great choice—especially for photographers and anyone who works from home. The all-in-one printer is also designed with HP’s Wolf Essential Security system to keep your information secure and keep hackers out. Plus, unlike other printers that require you to get your hands dirty to replenish the ink, this one offers a 15-second mess-free ink refill experience with bottles that can be plugged into the tank. Say goodbye to messes and hello to your new printer . Best of all? For a limited time, score three months of Instant Ink with HP+. The slain UnitedHealthcare CEO had a criminal record for drunk driving and was secretly separated from his wife for years before he was shot dead in Manhattan on Wednesday, according to public records. Minnesota court filings show that in 2017 Brian Thompson was arrested and convicted on charges of fourth-degree driving while impaired, for which he received probation. In addition to legal troubles, the executive, who was gunned down in what NYPD has labeled a “premeditated, pre-planned, targeted attack,” also seems to have faced recent marital issues. Based on property records, voter registration forms, and reports from neighbors, Brian and Paulette Thompson had lived in different homes less than a mile apart in Maple Grove, Minnesota, for the past several years, The Wall Street Journal reported . In 2018, Thompson bought a five-bedroom second house for around $1 million, while his wife’s residence remained in another house nearby, also worth about $1 million, based on Zillow listings and public records. Paulette Thompson told MSNBC her husband had received threats related to his company’s “lack of coverage” and said in a statement to a local Fox affiliate in Minnesota that his killing had left her and their two sons “shattered.” About 12 hours after his killing, someone made a bomb threat at his Minnesota home, but authorities did not find any evidence of explosives, TMZ reported . UnitedHealthcare and the Hennepin County District Court did not immediately respond to a Daily Beast inquiry about Thompson’s DUI. A top health insurance provider has scrapped a controversial plan to limit anesthesia coverage for surgical patients in at least one state. Anthem Blue Cross Blue Shield will no longer try to implement the much-ridiculed cap—which would have required patients to pay out-of-pocket for any anesthesia administered after their surgery went over an arbitrary time limit—on plans in Connecticut, the state’s comptroller, Sean Scanlon, shared Thursday. “After hearing from people across the state about this concerning policy, my office reached out to Anthem,” he said in a statement. “I’m pleased to share this policy will no longer be going into effect here in Connecticut.” The controversial plan was announced last month for customers in Connecticut, New York, and Missouri. The pending policy went viral on Wednesday, however, after the CEO of UnitedHealthcare, Brian Thompson, was gunned down in Manhattan in a “targeted attack.” It remains unclear if the cap will still go into place next year for New Yorkers or those in the Show Me State. Anthem is yet to say what drove it to pull its plan in Connecticut. Bill Lawrence, creator of Scrubs , is currently developing a reboot of the widely loved sitcom for ABC, Variety reported. Despite having a deal with Warner Bros. Television, the studio is reportedly carving out space for Lawrence to work on the show. Citing a source familiar with the matter, Variety adds that Lawrence will not be serving as the reboot’s showrunner if it gets fully greenlit. Cast members have also yet to be attached, and no other deals for the reboot are reportedly in place. Running for nine seasons between 2001 and 2008, Scrubs followed the daily hijinks of a hospital staff and starred Zach Braff, Donald Faison, Sarah Chalke, Judy Reyes, Ken Jenkins, John C. McGinley, and Neil Flynn. A reboot of the show has been thrown around for some time, with Lawrence sharing at a 2022 ATX Festival panel , “We’re gonna do it, you guys know. If you ever have an excuse to work with people you want to spend time with anyway, run to it.” Lawrence also famously created or co-created series like Cougar Town , Ted Lasso , and Shrinking . A 7.0-magnitude earthquake struck Northern California on Thursday morning, briefly triggering a tsunami warning for nearly 5 million people . The earthquake hit at 10:44 a.m. PST west of Petrolia, California in the Pacific Ocean, the US Geological Survey said. A 5.8-magnitude aftershock was recorded minutes later near Cobb, California, and several other apparent aftershocks between 2.5 to 4.2 magnitude followed. A tsunami warning issued for parts of the Northern California and Oregon coastlines, however, was called off by the early afternoon. California officials are responding to earthquake activity Gov. Gavin Newsom said in a post on X . The California Governor’s Office of Emergency Services is said to be coordinating with local officials in Humboldt and Lake counties, where significant earthquake activity was reported. More than 10,000 Humboldt County customers are reportedly without power. While no damage has been reported in San Francisco, the city’s Bay Area Rapid Transit, announced it is experiencing significant service disruptions due to the earthquake. Scouted selects products independently. If you purchase something from our posts, we may earn a small commission. Apparently, boosting prostate health can actually be pleasurable—at least, that’s what premium sexual wellness brand MysteryVibe says. The Molto, an ultra-slim and bendable prostate vibrator designed by a doctor, is engineered to be the same size and width as a doctor’s finger and to mimic similar motions to that performed during an exam, allowing for not only intense prostate (the prostate is often hailed as the male ‘G-spot’) and anal stimulation but also a release of prostatic fluids. According to the brand, some studies have found that excess prostatic fluid can lead to inflammation and pressure, so not only is this a sex toy , but it’s also possibly an investment in your prostate health. Think of it almost like a lymphatic massage for your prostate—except one that can give you intense orgasms, too. Made with body-safe silicone, the multifunctional and gender-fluid vibrator is powered by one “anatomically-placed” motor that delivers potent yet precise vibration to the anus and prostate without feeling bulky or inflexible. It’s a great sex toy for those new to anal play or who are looking for an ultra-sleek vibrator with possible health-boosting benefits. The prostate vibrator is equipped with 16 vibration settings and eight pre-set vibration patterns, allowing for superior control and customization. Plus, the device comes with access to a catalog of vibration patterns with the free MysteryVibe smartphone app. Best of all? Because the Molto vibrator is an FDA-registered class II medical device, it’s also FSA/HSA eligible. Associates of the right-wing firebrand Ric Grenell sought the help of MAGA influencers to secure him Donald Trump ’s nomination for s ecretary of state . Shortly after Trump’s election victory, an ally of Grenell’s approached conservative social media influencers, offering paid contracts up to five figures to post favorable content about Grenell, Politico reported Thursday. Influencers, the contract stipulated, would post pro-Grenell content and do so during “peak posting times,” ensure that “content must appear genuine,” and not “as an overt advertisement or promotional message.” Grenell denied the alleged influencer conspiracy to Politico. However, his desire for the highly coveted Cabinet position was no secret. Trump’s former ambassador to Germany and acting director of national intelligence spent the past three years reportedly telling people in the president-elect’s orbit that it was secretary of state “or bust.” Despite being one of Trump’s most loyal cohorts, Trump ultimately chose Florida Sen. Marco Rubio to lead the State Department . Grenell is said to have been offered other posts, including director of national intelligence, but has turned the offers down. Actress Amber Heard has announced that she is expecting her second baby. “It is still quite early in the pregnancy, so you will appreciate that we do not want to go into much detail at this stage,” a spokesman for Heard said Thursday to People . “Suffice to say that Amber is delighted both for herself and Oonagh Paige.” Heard welcomed her daughter in 2021. “I wanted to do it on my own terms,” Heard wrote in a post announcing Oonagh’s birth via a surrogate. “I hope we arrive at a point in which it’s normalized to not want a ring in order to have a crib.” Heard has never commented on who the biological father is. The actress relocated to Madrid, Spain after the highly publicized defamation battle with ex-husband Johnny Depp . Heard told NBC News after the trial in 2022 that she was hoping to focus more on her growing family. “I get to be a mom, like, full time, you know? Where I’m not having to juggle calls with lawyers,” she said.Australia urged to power ahead on EV charger rollout
Tis the season to be jolly, thankful — and disciplined. And where better to get some timely tips on investing in stocks than the holiday classics "Rudolph the Red-Nosed Reindeer," "Frosty the Snowman" and "A Christmas Carol," featuring the reformed curmudgeon Scrooge. Using ( ), ( ), ( ) and ( ), and like ( ) as examples, we'll reveal a few of the secrets to stock market success hidden within these beloved holiday specials. Rudolph The Red-Nosed Reindeer On Investing In Stocks We all know it's Rudolph's unique red nose that makes him the "most famous reindeer of all." It's the same for the best stocks to watch. As one of the key pillars of , have a product or service that is unique, innovative and in demand. It's these attributes that ultimately drive the big earnings and sales growth that attracts the buying power of institutional investors. Think about what drove the powerful moves of , , and over the years. Each company has been a game-changing innovator. Nvidia's chip technology has been at the cutting edge of computer graphics, and the self-driving car revolution. Those groundbreaking innovations have fueled explosive growth, which continues to push Nvidia stock to record highs. A and other AI chipmakers just gave it another boost. Netflix has gone through multiple industry-changing innovations since its founding in 1997. From delivering DVDs with no late fees to pioneering online streaming to becoming a major creator of original content, Netflix has continued to develop new businesses. Meta-owned Facebook, of course, remains at the forefront of the social media revolution it helped pioneer. And as the world moved from desktop to mobile in the early 2010s, CEO Mark Zuckerberg and team found their mobile mojo to avoid being left behind before evolving into a major . Back to trading near its all-time high, Tesla also continues its pioneering spirit. From spearheading the mainstream emergence of to pushing , the company continues to innovate. Frosty the Snowman On Stock Investing And Market Cycles Frosty teaches us how the market and individual stocks move in cycles. America's favorite snowman melts each year, but always returns the following winter. It's the same with the stock market. After every market "meltdown," a new bullish uptrend eventually emerges. That's an important point to remember in times of sharp market volatility. The coronavirus crash and subsequent rebound reminded all investors of that fact. So did the sharp drop in tech stocks like Nvidia, Meta and other Magnificent Seven stocks in 2022, followed by a robust bull market. Massive moves in Nvidia, Meta and Netflix only reinforce that point. Although it took longer to emerge from its slump, Tesla has also regained traction. But keep these two important facts in mind. Most leading stocks in the prior bull market do come back to lead in the next one. In fact, only about one in eight past leaders returns to lead again. So when a new bull market begins, be on the lookout for a new crop of leading stocks. When a bear market hits, former leading stocks decline 72% on average. So understand the dangers of a "buy and hold" strategy, and be sure to lock in your profits and cut short any losses when the market rolls over. Frosty the Snowman also teaches us about the importance of . In the classic TV show, it's the magic black hat that brings Frosty to life. In the stock market, the magic hat is the buying power of mutual fund managers and other large institutional investors. They provide the fuel that pushes a stock higher. Without that support from the institutions, a stock is unlikely to make a big, sustained upward move. Scrooge On The Importance Of Post-Analysis The famously stingy and grumpy Scrooge teaches us about the importance of reflection — and that we all deserve a second chance. By the end of "The Christmas Carol," Scrooge has transformed from "Bah humbug" to "Merry Christmas! God bless us, every one!" How did he make that transformation? By doing a post-analysis of his life. All investors make mistakes, but not all investors learn from them. That's the difference. To make sure you learn from your mistakes (and your successes), do a regular post-analysis of your trades. It's a profitable use of your time, and much more pleasant than being visited by ghosts in the middle of the night. Related Books: |
Ahmedabad: The Enforcement Directorate 's (ED) Ahmedabad zonal office on Tuesday attached bank accounts with a balance of Rs 19 lakh, along with ‘incriminating documents, digital devices, and two vehicles' belonging to Bhavesh Ashokbhai Patel , one of the accused in the deaths of four family members from Dingucha in Gandhinagar on the Canada-US border in Jan 2022. ED's social media account on Tuesday evening mentioned, ‘ED, Ahmedabad conducted search operations on Dec 10, 2024, and Dec 19, 2024, under the provisions of PMLA, 2002, at eight locations in Mumbai, Nagpur, Gandhinagar and Vadodara as part of the ongoing probe in the case of Bhavesh Ashokbhai Patel and others (Dingucha case) for hatching a well-planned conspiracy to send the victims/persons to the USA through Canada via illegal channels, thereby committing the offence of human trafficking .' Local investigators mentioned that Patel was among the three – Yogesh Patel, Bhavesh Patel, and Dashrath Chaudhary – who were reportedly working with Bharat Patel alias Bobby, the primary agent who sent Jagdish Patel and his family to Canada to illegally cross the border into the US. The family of four froze to death in the attempt. The three were arrested by the city crime branch in connection with the case. Stay updated with the latest news on Times of India . Don't miss daily games like Crossword , Sudoku , Location Guesser and Mini Crossword . Spread love this holiday season with these Christmas wishes , messages , and quotes .
