Controversial Trump loyalist Kash Patel ‘in battle’ to be CIA No. 2 – which doesn’t need Senate confirmationp777 slot 。

Aggregates Market to Expand by USD 51.86 Billion (2024-2028), Driven by Construction Investments and AI-Powered Market Evolution - Technavio

Wall Street's Santa Rally At Risk, Palantir Dethrones Nvidia, Consumer Confidence Pulls Back: This Week In The MarketsAs the 2024 showbiz calendar winds up, we are taking stock of each genre today. These include music, visual arts (painting, sculpture, and photography), film and television, theatre, fashion, literary arts, and spoken word. This annual stock-take is critical to establish which artists excelled and those who need to up their game in 2025. With the demand for Zimbabwean art collections rising overseas, we certainly need to elevate our standards if we are to maintain the dominance shown in other genres, especially visual arts. The same dominance should also be exhibited on home turf. Without fear or favour, research has shown that the young “Turks” of showbiz, especially in music, excelled beyond expectations. Music, which commands a huge following, was dominated by youthful musicians who showed consistency throughout the year. Killer T’s track “Kana Ndanyura” can easily pass as the song of the year. It remains a hit at parties, weddings, clubs, and even in some church gatherings like picnics. He represented the Zimdancehall genre with pride and aplomb. Consistent Zimdancehall chanter, Sylvester “Freeman” Chizanga, had a successful season, which saw him holding a fully attended HKD Music Festival at Alex Sports Club in Harare. Master H was the best find of 2024, as the youngster has been performing well. Master H He participated in major festivals including the Castle Tankard, OK Grand Challenge, and Chibuku Road to Fame after-party, among other events. His work ethic has made him a favourite of many. There was also Nisha Ts, who did well for the greater part of the year. Born Anisha Tashinga Shonhiwa and raised in Chegutu, she defied the odds of a poor background that could have hindered her progress. She advanced on merit, which is why she remains a favourite among many. Her benefactor, Tinashe Mutarisi, has also helped her realize her potential in this particular genre. She has managed to put the sponsorship to good use, much to the delight of her fans. With sound management, she is destined for the stars. In Zim Hip Hop, it’s hard to ignore the impact of Holy, Saintfloew, Voltz JT, and Bagga, among other rappers. They left their mark each time on stage whether controversial or not but the good thing is that, it is expected in the genre. In gospel world , the old guard in the genre, led by Baba Mechanic Manyeruke, Shuvai Wutawunashe, Pastor Charles Charamba, and his wife Olivia, Carol Mujokoro, Pastor Bonnie Deuschle and Prince Mafukidze among others shocked many as they bounced back on stage as they did their best to revive the genre at the Gospel Legends Night held at the Harare International Conference Centre early this month. Hosted by United Kingdom based Zimbabwean award winning songstress Eleana Makombe, the inaugural event was a success and it was applauded by many locals for such initiative. Eleana and John Makombe The new crop of gospel musicians, including Minister Michael Mahendere, Janet Manyowa, Ellard, Sharon Cherayi, Elenaa Makombe, and Everton Mlalazi, had a successful year. However, the script was not the same for both seasoned and upcoming sungura musicians. There was nothing to write home about this year, as the majority pursuing sungura failed to produce hits. It appears that they need to recharge their waning vocal batteries. Of course, sungura has stood the test of time, but artists in this genre can do better. Major successes were recorded by visual artists who had a year to remember. Many of these artists toured the world and showcased the unique essence of Zimbabwean art on a global scale. Visual art, which encompasses various mediums including painting, photography, sculpture, drawing, installation, and digital arts, is a significant industry internationally. The sad reality is that locals are yet to embrace it despite its impact overseas. A change of mindset is needed to ensure that local entrepreneurs, corporates, and individuals buy our art first. With most visual artists relying on international buyers, credit goes to arts regulatory chiefs, curators, and artists working closely with the National Gallery of Zimbabwe in Harare, Bulawayo, Mutare, and Victoria Falls. NGZ executive director Raphael Chikukwa has done his best to promote this art form. Besides the NGZ headquarters in Harare, other galleries like Dzimbahwe Arts and Cultural Heritage Hub, Nhaka Art Gallery, Mbare Art Space, Chapungu Sculpture Village, and the Swiss-Zim Heritage Gallery in Domboshava have been churning out top creatives. Individuals like Dominic Benhura and David Ngwerume also need no introduction. Zimbabwe’s participation at the 60th International Exhibition of Biennale in Italy was good news to the sector. Often referred to as the “World Cup of Arts,” this prestigious event featured Zimbabwean artists such as Moffat Takadiwa, Gillian Rosselli, Victor Nyakauru, Sekai Machache, Troy Makaza, and Kombo Chapfika. Their participation exemplifies Zimbabwe’s growing presence on the international art stage. Moffat Takadiwa The legacy of Zimbabwean artists at the Venice Biennale includes luminaries like Portia Zvavahera, Virginia Chihota, Misheck Masamvu, Calvin Dondo, and many others. Their ability to captivate audiences both at home and abroad highlights the country’s rich artistic heritage and the potential for future growth in the global art market. The continued efforts to promote local art appreciation will be crucial in ensuring that Zimbabwean artists receive the recognition and support they deserve. In theatre, credit goes to Daves Guzha, Peter Churu, Jasen Mphepo, and Malawi-based producer and director Stanley Mambo, who is doing well at Madsoc Theatre in Lilongwe. Daniel Maposa and Silvanos Mudzvova are some of the top acts who have ensured that theatre maintains its dominance. The same can be said of United Kingdom theatre practitioners who are still in touch with fellow directors in Zimbabwe. In Zimbabwe, Guzha, Churu, and Mphepo have been holding shows in Harare venues like Theatre in the Park, Jasen Mphepo Little Theatre, and Reps Theatre. Mudzvova and Maposa have been conducting a series of workshops to equip creatives in this genre. Their efforts were meant to ensure that creatives monetise their work and embrace technology, especially the use of artificial intelligence (AI). Stand-up comedians including Doc Vikela, King Kandoro (real name Mukudzei Kandoro Majoni), Nigel “Tha Sleek Pasto” Maritinyu, and Admire “Bhutisi” Kuzhangaira have also shown their potential despite challenges such as a shortage of venues. Like theatre, comedy relies on a live audience and a serene environment where creatives can easily express themselves. In fashion, we have seen the potential that the sector has, although it needs funding, proper regulation, and unity. This was the case when the Fashion Council of Zimbabwe (FCoZ) issued a statement distancing themselves from the organisation and management of the Zimbabwe Fashion Week 2024, which did not live up to expectations. The Zimbabwe Fashion Week 2024 was marred by chaos, with FCoZ’s name being dragged into the mess. FCoZ set the record straight and pledged their commitment towards fostering a vibrant and inclusive fashion industry. Zimbabwean fashion designers have continued to show both locally and internationally, and it takes sacrifices from organizations like FCoZ to regulate the sector. Some fashion enthusiasts also expressed their disappointment in the manner the industry is being run. The refreshing news from the sector was Sakhile Dube’s national dress, designed by Ivhu Tribe Brand, named “The Soaring Eagle,” which she donned at the Miss Universe finals held in Mexico recently The world now knows Zimbabwe’s capacity in this sector, where we have plenty of talented fashion designers. In modelling, Zimbabwe was well represented by Sakhile at Miss Universe, made it into the top 30. Although she missed out on the crown, she performed admirably at the global contest. Sakhile is not the only one who managed to raise the country flag high, there was also model Amanda Peresu-Moyo who won the Miss Intercontinental Africa title at a pageant held at the Sunrise Remal Resort in Sharm el Sheikh, Egypt. Amanda, was in the top five, following the success of Tendai Hunda, who won the same title in 2015. After finishing in the top eight last year at Miss Universe Zimbabwe, Amanda expressed joy over her new crown. On to the dance floor, dancer Victoria Kjær Theilvig (21) of Denmark won the 2024 edition, becoming the first Dane ever to land the crown. People’s favorite and Nigerian beauty queen Chidimma Adetshina was voted first runner-up, and the second runner-up is Mexico’s Maria Fernanda Beltran. The top five finalists at the beauty pageant included Thailand’s Opal Suchata Chuangsri and Venezuela’s Ileana Marquez. In film and television, Zimbabwe has shown a lot of potential despite the lack of funding crippling the sector. However, the recent launch of the five-year blueprint strategy for Film and Television by the National Arts Council of Zimbabwe (NACZ), in conjunction with the Ministry of Sport, Recreation, Arts, and Culture, has brought relief to the sector. A billion-dollar industry globally, Zimbabwe, which boasts some of the best brains in the sector including Stephen Chigorimbo, Aaron Chiundura Moyo, and Nakai Tsuro, can thrive with proper funding. The birth of new awards for this sector, like the Zimbabwe Annual Film and Television Awards (ZAFTAs), which cultural ambassadors like Tongayi Chirisa, Danai Gurira, and Chipo Chung support, is great news for the sector. Zimbabwe can also benefit from utilising the expertise of filmmakers like Joe Njagu, Eddie Sandifolo, and Charlene Furusa, who are dedicated to the sector. The European Union Film Festival (EUFF) roundtable held at Mbare Art Space from October 10-13 was also a game-changer for the sector. In literary arts, the sector has been lamenting the decline of the reading culture. However, some literary arts gurus reckon there is not enough reading material in certain communities, which should be made available first. On a sad note, 2024 was the year we lost historian Phathisa Nyathi after a long illness at the age of 73. Many are still reeling from the loss of the popular arts practitioner, famed for his research as a preservationist and his writing style. In summary, a collective mindset shift is vital for the arts sector to thrive and create more opportunities. ELECTIONS by their nature and at any level of society, are a delicate process often characterised by controversy, mudslinging, contestations and a lot of jockeying. Elections are emotional, too. The intensity of those characteristics also varies with the kind of interest, which the elections in question, would have generated and the players involved in those [...] Brandon Moyo, Zimpapers Sports Hub LED by three centurions, Zimbabwe broke records on Day Two of the historic Boxing Day Test against Afghanistan at Queens Sports Club in Bulawayo. The Chevrons began Day Two on 363/4 and ended their innings on a mammoth 586 runs from 135.2 overs. The 586 runs scored over the five [...] Nqobile Tshili, Bulawayo Bureau VICTORIA Mudyanembwa, a brilliant young student from the rural heartland of Lukosi in Hwange District, who just earned a first class honours degree from the University of Zimbabwe in Pharmaceutical Chemistry as the top student in her year, is now moving to Oxford University for a post-graduate degree on the prestigious [...]AP Top 25: Alabama, Mississippi out of top 10 and Miami, SMU are in; Oregon remains unanimous No. 1 Alabama and Mississippi tumbled out of the top 10 of The Associated Press college football poll and Miami and SMU moved in following a chaotic weekend in the SEC. Oregon is No. 1 for the sixth straight week and Ohio State, Texas and Penn State held their places behind the Ducks. The shuffling begins at No. 5, where Notre Dame returned for the first time since Week 2 after beating Army for its ninth straight win. No. 6 Georgia and No. 7 Tennessee each moved up two spots. Miami, SMU and Indiana round out the top 10. Jannik Sinner leads Italy past the Netherlands for its second consecutive Davis Cup title MALAGA, Spain (AP) — Jannik Sinner clinched Italy's second consecutive Davis Cup title and capped his breakthrough season at the top of tennis by beating Tallon Griekspoor 7-6 (2), 6-2 for a 2-0 win over the Netherlands in the final of the team competition in Malaga, Spain. Matteo Berrettini won Sunday's opening singles match 6-4, 6-2 against Botic van de Zandschulp. The Italians are the first country to win the Davis Cup twice in a row since the Czech Republic in 2012 and 2013. The No. 1-ranked Sinner stretched his unbeaten streak in singles to 14 matches and 26 sets. Netherlands reached the Davis Cup final for the first time. Chuck Woolery, smooth-talking game show host of 'Love Connection' and 'Scrabble,' dies at 83 NEW YORK (AP) — Chuck Woolery, the affable, smooth-talking game show host of “Wheel of Fortune,” “Love Connection” and “Scrabble” who later became a right-wing podcaster, skewering liberals and accusing the government of lying about COVID-19, has died. He was 83. Mark Young, Woolery’s podcast co-host and friend, said in an email early Sunday that Woolery died at his home in Texas with his wife, Kristen, present. Woolery, with his matinee idol looks, coiffed hair and ease with witty banter, was inducted into the American TV Game Show Hall of Fame in 2007 and earned a daytime Emmy nomination in 1978. He teamed up with Young for the podcast “Blunt Force Truth” and became a full supporter Donald Trump. St. Louis Blues fire Drew Bannister and hire Jim Montgomery as coach The St. Louis Blues have fired coach Drew Bannister and hired Jim Montgomery as his replacement. The 2022 Jack Adams Award winner, Montgomery joins the Blues five days after he was fired by the Boston Bruins. Bannister had been on the job in St. Louis for less than a year since succeeding Stanley Cup-winning coach Craig Berube and getting the interim tag removed after last season. The Blues have lost 13 of their first 22 games. Montgomery spent two seasons as an assistant on Berube's staff in St. Louis between coaching Dallas and Boston. The team signed Montgomery to a five-year contract. Rico Carty, who won the 1970 NL batting title with the Atlanta Braves, dies at 85 Rico Carty, who won the 1970 NL batting title when he hit a major league-best .366 for the Atlanta Braves, has died. He was 85. Major League Baseball, the players’ association and the Braves have paid tribute to Carty on social media. A family friend told Listín Diario — a newspaper in Carty’s native Dominican Republic — that he died Saturday night in an Atlanta hospital. Carty made his big league debut with the Braves in September 1963. He batted .330 with 22 homers and 88 RBIs in his first full season in 1964, finishing second to Dick Allen in voting for NL Rookie of the Year. The Braves moved from Milwaukee to Atlanta after the 1965 season, and Carty got the franchise’s first hit in its new home on April 12, 1966, against Pittsburgh. Dartmouth sorority, two members of fraternity face charges after student who attended party drowned HANOVER, N.H. (AP) — A sorority at Dartmouth College and two members of a fraternity faces charges related to the death of a student who drowned after attending an off-campus party. The Hanover, New Hampshire police department, where Dartmouth is located, said Friday that Alpha Phi was charged with one count of facilitating an underage alcohol house. Two members of the Beta Alpha Omega face a charge of providing alcohol to a person under 21. Won Jang, 20, of Middletown, Delaware, had attended an off-campus party in July hosted by Alpha Phi sorority. Police said the alcohol was provided by Beta Alpha Omega. Tens of thousands of Spaniards protest housing crunch and high rents in Barcelona BARCELONA, Spain (AP) — Tens of thousands of Spaniards are marching in downtown Barcelona to protest the skyrocketing cost of renting an apartment in the popular tourist destination. Protesters cut off traffic on main avenues in the city center, holding up homemade signs in Spanish reading “Fewer apartments for investing and more homes for living." The lack of affordable housing has become one of the leading concerns for the southern European Union country, mirroring the housing crunch across many parts of the world, including the United States. The average rent for Spain has doubled in the last decade. In cities like Barcelona, rental prices have also been driven up by short-term renters including tourists. Verstappen captures 4th F1 championship after Mercedes sweep of Las Vegas Grand Prix LAS VEGAS (AP) — Max Verstappen cruised to a fourth consecutive Formula 1 championship Saturday night by finishing fifth in the Las Vegas Grand Prix. Verstappen needed only to finish ahead of Lando Norris of McLaren to give Red Bull a fourth straight driver championship. The Dutchman started fifth but was already up to second by the 10th lap around the street circuit that includes the famed Las Vegas Strip. Norris, who had to score at least three points more than Verstappen to extend the championship fight, finished sixth. The race was won by George Russell who was followed by Lewis Hamilton in the first 1-2 sweep for the Mercedes drivers since 2022. 'Wicked' and 'Gladiator' make gravity-defying theater debuts NEW YORK (AP) — “Wicked” and “Gladiator II” have debuted in theaters with a combined $270 million in ticket sales. Their worldwide performance breathed fresh life into global box office results that have struggled lately. Together the films turned the moviegoing weekend into one of the busiest of the year. Jon M. Chu’s lavish big-budget musical “Wicked,” starring Ariana Grande and Cynthia Erivo, debuted with $114 million domestically and $164.2 million globally. Ridley Scott’s “Gladiator II” is a sequel to his 2000 best picture-winning original and launched with $55.5 million in ticket sales. “Moana 2” is being released Wednesday, so it looks like Hollywood might be looking at historic sales over the Thanksgiving holiday. Jason Kelce's wife announces she is pregnant with the couple's fourth child Former Philadelphia Eagles center Jason Kelce's wife is announcing she's pregnant with the couple's fourth child. Kylie Kelce posted a photo on Instagram on Friday of the couple's three young daughters reacting to the news. The oldest daughter, Wyatt, appears to be cupping her head in shock. The middle daughter, Ellioette, is smiling. The youngest, Bennett, is in tears. A caption attached to the photo reads: “I feel like we captured a very accurate representation of how each of the girls feel about getting another sister. At least Ellie, mom and dad are on the same page!”By HALELUYA HADERO, Associated Press President-elect Donald Trump asked the Supreme Court on Friday to pause the potential TikTok ban from going into effect until his administration can pursue a “political resolution” to the issue. The request came as TikTok and the Biden administration filed opposing briefs to the court, in which the company argued the court should strike down a law that could ban the platform by Jan. 19 while the government emphasized its position that the statute is needed to eliminate a national security risk. “President Trump takes no position on the underlying merits of this dispute. Instead, he respectfully requests that the Court consider staying the Act’s deadline for divestment of January 19, 2025, while it considers the merits of this case,” said Trump’s amicus brief, which supported neither party in the case. The filings come ahead of oral arguments scheduled for Jan. 10 on whether the law, which requires TikTok to divest from its China-based parent company or face a ban, unlawfully restricts speech in violation of the First Amendment. Earlier this month, a panel of three federal judges on the U.S. Court of Appeals for the District of Columbia Circuit unanimously upheld the statute , leading TikTok to appeal the case to the Supreme Court. The brief from Trump said he opposes banning TikTok at this junction and “seeks the ability to resolve the issues at hand through political means once he takes office.”

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By Krystal Hu and Niket Nishant (Reuters) -Databricks is in talks to raise up to $8 billion from investors that would value the data analytics company at $55 billion, in one of the largest fundraises in Silicon Valley, according to a source familiar with the matter. Most of the new funding would be in the form of a secondary share sale, where early investors and employees are allowed to cash out some of their stock holdings, the source said. It would also be used to cover the tax cost associated with the share sales, which could cost billions. Such deals can boost employee morale, since stock-based payouts typically comprise a big chunk of the compensation at startups, while allowing the company to sidestep an initial public offering under a deadline before the stock unit expires. Several high-flying startups are seeking to stay private for longer to avoid the regulatory burden and market volatility associated with being public. The flexibility via secondary sales also gives them more time to strengthen their finances. Fintech giant Stripe is reportedly seeking a valuation of $70 billion in a similar deal, according to a report by Bloomberg News. Sam Altman's OpenAI also raised $6.6 billion at a valuation of $157 billion last month. Major venture capital investors Thrive Capital and DST Global are participating in the fundraising by Databricks, two sources said. Databricks did not immediately respond to a Reuters request for comment. Its latest move was reported by CNBC earlier on Tuesday. The company had notched up a valuation of $43 billion after a $500 million funding round last year. Its global revenue jumped to $1.6 billion in the fiscal year ended Jan. 31, more than 50% higher than the year before. (Reporting by Krystal Hu in New York and Niket Nishant in Bengaluru; Editing by Shilpi Majumdar)Presbyterian 67, Youngstown St. 42

MONTEVIDEO, Uruguay (AP) — Balloting in Uruguay’s runoff election came to a close on Sunday, starting a countdown to the announcement of official results in a tight battle for the presidency between the conservative ruling coalition candidate and his left-wing challenger. Independent polling firms will start releasing so-called quick counts now that polls have closed, but the official results are not likely to be released for hours. Depending on how tight the vote turns out to be, electoral officials may not call the race for days, as happened in the contentious 2019 runoff that brought center-right President Luis Lacalle Pou to office and ended 15 years of rule by Uruguay’s center-left Broad Front coalition. Though polls show Uruguayans largely satisfied with the current government’s performance, complaints about sluggish growth, persistent violent crime and stagnant wages could add Uruguay to a long list of countries where frustrated voters have punished incumbents in elections around the world this year. THIS IS A BREAKING NEWS UPDATE. AP’s earlier story follows below. MONTEVIDEO, Uruguay (AP) — Uruguayans went to the polls Sunday for a second round of voting to choose their next president , with the conservative governing party and the left-leaning coalition locked in a close runoff after failing to win an outright majority in last month's vote . The staid election has turned into a hard-fought race between Álvaro Delgado, the incumbent party's candidate, and Yamandú Orsi from the Broad Front, a coalition of leftist and center-left parties that governed for 15 years until the 2019 victory of center-right President Luis Lacalle Pou . The Broad Front oversaw the legalization of abortion, same-sex marriage and the sale of marijuana in the small South American nation of 3.4 million people. Orsi's Broad Front took 44% of the vote while Delgado's National Party won 27% in the first round of voting Oct. 27. But other conservative parties that make up the government coalition — in particular, the Colorado Party — notched 20% of the vote collectively, enough to give Delgado an edge over his challenger. Congress ended up evenly split in the October vote. Most polls have shown a virtual tie between Delgado and Orsi, with nearly 10% of Uruguayan voters undecided even at this late stage. Many said they believed turnout would be low if voting weren't compulsory in the country. “Neither candidate convinced me and I feel that there are many in my same situation," said Vanesa Gelezoglo, 31, in the capital, Montevideo, adding she would make up her mind at “the last minute.” Analysts say the candidates' lackluster campaigns and broad consensus on key issues have generated extraordinary indecision and apathy in an election dominated by discussions about social spending and concerns over income inequality but largely free of the anti-establishment rage that has vaulted populist outsiders to power elsewhere . “The question of whether Frente Amplio (the Broad Front) raises taxes is not an existential question, unlike what we saw in the U.S. with Trump and Kamala framing each other as threats to democracy," said Nicolás Saldías, a Latin America and Caribbean senior analyst for the London-based Economist Intelligence Unit. “That doesn't exist in Uruguay.” Both candidates are also appealing to voter angst over a surge in violent crime that has shaken a nation long regarded as one of the region’s safest, with Delgado promising tough-on-crime policies and Orsi advocating a more community-oriented approach. Delgado, 55, a rural veterinarian with a long career in the National Party, campaigned on a vow to continue the legacy of current President Lacalle Pou — in some ways making the election into a referendum on his leadership. He campaigned under the slogan “re-elect a good government." While a string of corruption scandals rattled Lacalle Pou's government last year, the president — who constitutionally cannot run for a second consecutive term — now enjoys high approval ratings and a strong economy expected to grow 3.2% this year, according to the International Monetary Fund. Inflation has also eased in recent months, boosting his coalition. Delgado served most recently as Secretary of the Presidency for Lacalle Pou and promises to pursue his predecessor's pro-business policies. He would continue pushing for a trade deal with China that has raised hackles in Mercosur, an alliance of South American countries promoting regional commerce. "We have to give the government coalition a chance to consolidate its proposals,” said Ramiro Pérez, a street vendor voting for Delgado on Sunday. Orsi, 57, a former history teacher and two-time mayor from a working-class background, is widely seen as the political heir to iconic former President José “Pepe” Mujica , an ex-Marxist guerilla who raised Uruguay's international profile as one of the region's most socially liberal and environmentally sustainable nations during his 2010-2015 term. “He's my candidate, not only for my sake but also for my children's,” Yeny Varone, a nurse, said of Orsi. “In the future they'll have better working conditions, health and salaries.” Mujica, now 89 and recovering from esophageal cancer , was among the first to cast his ballot after polls opened. “Uruguay is a small country, but it has earned recognition for being stable, for having a citizenry that respects institutional formalities,” he told reporters from his local polling station. “This is no small feat.” While promising to forge a “new left” in Uruguay, Orsi plans no dramatic changes. He proposes tax incentives to lure investment and social security reforms that would lower the retirement age but fall short of a radical overhaul sought by Uruguay's unions. The contentious plebiscite on whether to boost pension payouts failed to pass in October, with Uruguayans rejecting generous pensions in favor of fiscal constraint. Both candidates pledged full cooperation with each other if elected. “I want (Orsi) to know that my idea is to form a government of national unity,” Delgado told reporters after casting his vote in the capital's upscale Pocitos neighborhood. He said that if he won, he and Orsi would chat on Monday over some yerba mate, the traditional herbal drink beloved by Uruguayans. Orsi similarly pledged a smooth and respectful transition of power, describing Sunday's democratic exercise as “an incredible experience" as he voted in Canelones, the sprawling town of beaches and cattle ranches just north of Montevideo where he served as mayor for a decade. “The essence of politics is agreements,” he said. “You never end up completely satisfied.” Associated Press writer Isabel DeBre in Villa Tunari, Bolivia, contributed to this report.Republican Senators On Matt Gaetz Dropping Out: Phew

A peep into the past that brings alive the spirit of HyderabadButler 69, Mass.-Lowell 44

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, /PRNewswire/ -- Loc Performance ("Loc") is pleased to announce significant capital investments at its facility, following recently won defense contracts for missile system structures. These pivotal contracts position Loc as a key supplier for several missile programs that are expected to be in production for multiple years going forward. The manufacturing of missile structures began low-rate initial production at plant in 2024, with expansion planned at Loc's plant in 2025. This strategic move not only enhances our operational capabilities but also strengthens our competitive edge in the market. "As we continue to elevate our skills and technology, we see an exciting opportunity for growth in both Loc's commercial and defense sectors," said , Director of Business Development, Loc Performance. "Missile structures represent a key area for expansion within our defense market strategy." To meet the demands for these large-scale missile structures, Loc is actively investing in high-precision 4-axis and 5-axis CNC Machining Centers, with two new machines already installed and operational. Additionally, Loc is enhancing its manufacturing support by installing large-capacity and highly accurate coordinate measuring machines, ensuring the highest standards of quality and precision. These developments will create new job opportunities for skilled CNC multi-axis machinists at both Loc's and locations. Additionally, Loc plans to expand its skilled manufacturing and quality engineering teams to support this growth. Loc Performance is committed to advancing its capabilities and contributing to the defense industry, reinforcing its position as a leader in innovative manufacturing solutions. Loc Performance, headquartered in , provides track systems, mechanical systems, armor products, fabricated structures, and rubberized products for military, agricultural, and construction applications. With proven capabilities in product design and development through production, Loc offers comprehensive solutions and exceptional customer service to produce the highest quality products at competitive pricing. Loc has over 1,750,000 square feet of manufacturing space with facilities in , , and , and with more than 1000 total employees. Learn more at . View original content to download multimedia: SOURCE Loc Performance ProductsMorgan Rogers looked to have given Emery’s side another famous win when he slammed a loose ball home in stoppage time, but referee Jesus Gil Manzano ruled Diego Carlos to have fouled Juve goalkeeper Michele Di Gregorio and the goal was chalked off. Contact seemed minimal but VAR did not intervene and Villa had to settle for a point in a 0-0 draw. “With the last action, it is the interpretation of the referee,” the Spaniard said. “In England, 80 per cent of those is given a goal and it’s not a foul. It’s very soft. “But in Europe, it could be a foul. We have to accept. “Everybody will know, in England the interpretation is different. The England referees, when actions like that the interpretation is a clear no foul but in Europe that interpretation is different. “They have to be working to get the same decision when some action like that is coming. I don’t know exactly why but we knew before in the Premier League that it is different. A very controversial finish at Villa Park 😲 Morgan Rogers' late goal is ruled out for a foul on Juventus goalkeeper Michele Di Gregorio and the match ends 0-0 ❌ 📺 @tntsports & @discoveryplusUK pic.twitter.com/MyYL5Vdy3r — Football on TNT Sports (@footballontnt) November 27, 2024 “In Europe for example we are not doing a block like in England and we are not doing in front of the goalkeeper in offensive corners the same situations like in England. “When the action happened, I was thinking here in Europe it’s a foul. In England not, but in Europe I have to accept it. “At first, I thought the referee gave us a goal. In cases like that, it’s confusing because he has to wait for VAR. I don’t know what happened but I think so (the referee changed his mind with VAR).” It was a disappointment for Villa, who remain unbeaten at home in their debut Champions League campaign and are still in contention to qualify automatically for the last 16. “We were playing a favourite to be in the top eight and usually a contender to win this competition,” Emery added. “We are a team who for a long time didn’t play in Europe and the Champions League and this year is very important. “We wanted to play competitive and we are in the right way. Today to get one point is very good, we wanted to win but wanted to avoid some mistakes we made in previous games. “We have 10 points and we’re happy.” Before the game Emery called Juventus one of the “best teams in the world, historically and now”, but this was an Italian side down to the bare bones. Only 14 outfield players made the trip from Turin, with striker Dusan Vlahovic among those who stayed behind. Juve boss Thiago Motta, whose side are 19th but still in contention to reach the top eight, said: “There’s just three games left to qualify. The next home against Man City, then Brugge, then Benfica. “One at a time, as we always did with the goal to qualify for the next round. “In the end we will try and reach our goal which is to go to the next round.”Lea en español For many people, this time of year is all about the shopping. And there's a fair chance many feel less than joyful about the prospect. If fulfilling your lengthy list feels overwhelming, learning what brain science and evolutionary psychology say about shopping and gift-giving might help you understand exactly why you're stressed – and even point you toward a healthier, happier holiday season. Our reactions are encoded into our nervous system, said Dr. Beth Frates, a part-time associate professor in the department of physical medicine and rehabilitation at Harvard Medical School in Boston. "By understanding these brain responses, people can develop strategies to manage stress better, such as setting realistic expectations, focusing on mindfulness and simplifying holiday preparations," said Frates, who also is the immediate past president of the American College of Lifestyle Medicine. The idea of exchanging gifts at this time of year can be traced back to pagan solstice celebrations. But the drive to share with another is as old as humanity itself, said Dr. Diego Guevara Beltran, a postdoctoral fellow in psychology at the University of Arizona in Tucson who studies cooperation and generosity. The science of generosity is more about survival than stocking stuffers, Guevara Beltran said. Sharing food gave early humans an evolutionary advantage. "Generosity is just one of the ways by which we can accumulate resources, be it wealth itself or friendships or work partners or more attractive, more intelligent mates," he said. Sharing with other people, Guevara Beltran said, is "a signal that communicates how much you value them, their welfare, your relationship with them." Research has shown that helping people makes us feel good. Part of that, he said, is because when someone is part of a community, they feel protected. One way this manifests is through the act of giving gifts. But to derive happiness from gift-giving, the giver needs to feel both that it was not an obligation and that it was effective, according to the 2019 World Happiness Report . That means it could be stressful to be in a culture where gift-giving feels mandatory, or if we can't see that a gift helped someone, Guevara Beltran speculated. It also might be stressful if gift-giving becomes a competition to show that you care about somebody more than the others around them. Our brains on shopping Stressful shopping can cause several physiological responses to kick in, Frates said. First is the "fight or flight" reaction that comes with stress. The release of chemicals that increase our heart rate, raise our blood pressure and intensify our breathing evolved to give us bursts of energy to escape danger. Frates said that while holiday stressors are not life-threatening, they can still trigger the stress response. The pressure to stay within budget could create a sense of scarcity, she said. "This taps into an evolutionary response, where the fear of losing resources like money can feel urgent and distressing." The holiday season also involves a lot of choices. "The brain has limited capacity for decision-making, and making multiple decisions can lead to decision fatigue," Frates said. "This fatigue reduces the ability to self-regulate and cope, which can lead to heightened stress responses when confronted with even minor setbacks, like a long line or out-of-stock item." The stress of needing to complete tasks within a limited time can intensify the fight-or-flight response, she said, as the brain interprets the ticking clock as a sense of urgency or threat. Meanwhile, Frates said, holiday shopping can also trigger brain chemicals that affect our feelings. "Dopamine, a neurotransmitter associated with pleasure and reward, is released when we anticipate something exciting or enjoyable, like finding a great gift or finding a good deal," she said. "This anticipation can feel rewarding even before any actual purchase is made." For some people, this dopamine boost can make shopping a relaxing experience. "It provides a temporary distraction from other stressors and allows them to focus on something positive, creating a 'holiday high,'" Frates said. For some people, that can be problematic. "When shopping becomes a way to chase that next dopamine hit, it can lead to excessive spending or impulsive purchases," she said. "This can become a trap, particularly during the holidays, when deals, sales and gift-giving pressures are everywhere." Understanding how all these processes work can help people recognize why they feel the way they do and adopt strategies to cope, Frates said. Here are some of her suggestions. 1. Start with self-care before shopping Prioritizing self-care means people can be their best selves and make good decisions, Frates said. So, "eat food that is delicious and nutritious. Get seven to nine hours of sleep. Make sure to enjoy physical activity. Take walks when you can and invite friends along. Practice stress reduction like meditation or yoga to help you calm your body and mind." Before going shopping, try taking deep breaths using stress-relieving techniques such as 4-7-8 breathing (inhale through your nose for four counts, hold for seven counts, and exhale through your mouth for eight) or box breathing (inhale through the nose for four counts, hold your breath for four, exhale for four, then hold for four). 2. Be strategic Don't shop when you're hungry, tired, lonely or stressed, Frates said. And don't start shopping 15 minutes before a store closes or a website's online deals end, she said. That's setting yourself up for triggering the fight-or-flight response. 3. Be mindful Before making a purchase, take a moment to consider whether it's truly needed or whether it's an impulsive choice. To avoid overindulging, set a specific budget or limit yourself to a couple of hours or specific shopping days. "This keeps dopamine-driven spending in check while still allowing for the enjoyable aspects of holiday shopping," Frates said. Look for post-shopping activities that provide rewards without the financial cost. That can satisfy your brain's desire for more dopamine in a healthier way. "Plan enjoyable, stress-relieving activities after shopping, like going for a walk, spending time with friends or indulging in a hobby," she said. 4. Bring a friend Not only does this support healthy social connections, Frates said, but if things start feeling stressful, "you have a buddy, and you have a support system right there for you." 5. Rethink the focus of the season "With gift-giving, we need to change mindsets in order to be able to manage the stress," Frates said. The holidays could be used to emphasize social connections, she said. "Thinking about the connection with the person and making gift-giving more about deepening the connection than anything else, I think, will really help to reduce the stress around the process," she said. So instead of scouring shops and websites for the "perfect" gift, think about making a meaningful and personal one, she suggested. It could be a poem, a painting, a song or a framed photograph that captured a special time. 6. Lessons for children It's easy to get caught up in the hunt for a hard-to-get item, Frates said. But ask yourself what the holiday means in your family's traditions. "Is it about getting that perfect gift for the child? Or is it about celebrating the meaning of that holiday?" So instead of having children ask for one specific toy, or a specific brand of clothing, teach them to leave a little leeway on their lists. "It is a good reminder to express to children that this season is about giving and sharing what we can in the best way that we can," she said, "and sometimes the exact gift is not available." Encouraging such an attitude can be a tall order, Frates said, but it's a place to start. "A simple mindset shift could be the difference between a stressful holiday shopping season or a joyful journey to find meaningful gifts for people you care about." American Heart Association News covers heart and brain health. Not all views expressed in this story reflect the official position of the American Heart Association. Copyright is owned or held by the American Heart Association, Inc., and all rights are reserved. Sign up here to get the latest health & fitness updates in your inbox every week!

Aston Villa’s disallowed goal would have counted in England – Unai Emery

By HALELUYA HADERO, Associated Press President-elect Donald Trump asked the Supreme Court on Friday to pause the potential TikTok ban from going into effect until his administration can pursue a “political resolution” to the issue. The request came as TikTok and the Biden administration filed opposing briefs to the court, in which the company argued the court should strike down a law that could ban the platform by Jan. 19 while the government emphasized its position that the statute is needed to eliminate a national security risk. “President Trump takes no position on the underlying merits of this dispute. Instead, he respectfully requests that the Court consider staying the Act’s deadline for divestment of January 19, 2025, while it considers the merits of this case,” said Trump’s amicus brief, which supported neither party in the case. The filings come ahead of oral arguments scheduled for Jan. 10 on whether the law, which requires TikTok to divest from its China-based parent company or face a ban, unlawfully restricts speech in violation of the First Amendment. Earlier this month, a panel of three federal judges on the U.S. Court of Appeals for the District of Columbia Circuit unanimously upheld the statute , leading TikTok to appeal the case to the Supreme Court. The brief from Trump said he opposes banning TikTok at this junction and “seeks the ability to resolve the issues at hand through political means once he takes office.”

Suspect in the UnitedHealthcare’s CEO Killing Struggles, Shouts Entering CourthouseHappy scores 18 as Princeton defeats Nazareth 99-63President-elect Donald Trump asked the Supreme Court on Friday to pause the potential TikTok ban from going into effect until his administration can pursue a “political resolution” to the issue. The request came as TikTok and the Biden administration filed opposing briefs to the court, in which the company argued the court should strike down a law that could ban the platform by Jan. 19 while the government emphasized its position that the statute is needed to eliminate a national security risk. “President Trump takes no position on the underlying merits of this dispute. Instead, he respectfully requests that the Court consider staying the Act’s deadline for divestment of January 19, 2025, while it considers the merits of this case,” said Trump’s amicus brief, which supported neither party in the case. The filings come ahead of oral arguments scheduled for Jan. 10 on whether the law, which requires TikTok to divest from its China-based parent company or face a ban, unlawfully restricts speech in violation of the First Amendment. Earlier this month, a panel of three federal judges on the U.S. Court of Appeals for the District of Columbia Circuit unanimously upheld the statute, leading TikTok to appeal the case to the Supreme Court. The brief from Trump said he opposes banning TikTok at this junction and “seeks the ability to resolve the issues at hand through political means once he takes office.”