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Ellensburg trio earns recognition for state volleyball tournament performanceNEW YORK (AP) — Shohei Ohtani won his third Most Valuable Player Award and first in the National League, and Aaron Judge earned his second American League honor on Thursday. Ohtani was a unanimous MVP for the third time, receiving all 30 first-place votes and 420 points in voting by the Baseball Writers’ Association of America. New York Mets shortstop Francisco Lindor was second with 263 points and Arizona second baseman Ketel Marte third with 229. Judge was a unanimous pick for the first time. Kansas City shortstop Bobby Witt Jr. got all 30 second-place votes for 270 points, and Yankees outfielder Juan Soto was third with 21 third-place votes and 229 points. Judge had discussed the MVP award with Philadelphia’s Bryce Harper, the NL winner in 2015 and ’21. “I was telling him, `Man, I’m going to try to catch up to you with these MVPs here, man,’” Judge recalled. “He’d say, hopefully, he could stay a couple ahead of me, which I think he’ll do.” Ohtani was unanimously voted the AL MVP in 2021 and 2023 as a two-way star for the Los Angeles Angels and finished second to Judge in 2022 voting . He didn’t pitch in 2024 following elbow surgery and signed a record $700 million, 10-year contract with the Los Angeles Dodgers last December. He was the first player to twice become an unanimous MVP. He combined with Atlanta outfielder Ronald Acuña Jr. in 2023 for the first year both MVPs were unanimous. Ohtani hit .310, stole 59 bases and led the NL with 54 homers and 130 RBIs exclusively as a designated hitter, becoming the first player with 50 or more homers and 50 or more stolen bases in a season. He helped the Dodgers to the World Series title , playing the final three games with a torn labrum in his left shoulder . Ohtani became the first primary DH to win an MVP. He joined Frank Robinson for Cincinnati in 1961 and Baltimore in 1966 as the only players to win the MVP award in both leagues. Ohtani is the 12th player with three or more MVPs, joining Barry Bonds (seven) and Jimmie Foxx, Joe DiMaggio, Stan Musial, Roy Campanella, Yogi Berra, Mickey Mantle, Mike Schmidt, Alex Rodriguez, Albert Pujols and Mike Trout (three each). Balloting was conducted before the postseason. Judge led the major leagues with 58 homers, 144 RBIs and 133 walks while hitting .322. Witt topped the big leagues with a .332 average, hitting 32 homers with 31 stolen bases and 109 RBIs. Soto batted .288 with 41 homers and 109 RBIs. When Judge won his first MVP award in 2022, he received 28 first-place votes while Ohtani got the other two. When Judge won his first MVP award in 2022, he received 28 first-place votes while Ohtani got the other two. He is the Yankees' 22nd MVP winner, four more than any other team. Judge was hitting .207 with six homers and 18 RBIs through April, then batted .352 with 52 homers and 126 RBIs in 127 games. “March and April were not my friend this year.” Judge said. “Just keep putting in the work and things are going to change. You can’t mope. You can’t feel sorry for yourself. Especially in New York, nobody’s going to feel sorry for you. So you just got to go out there and put up the numbers?” Balloting was conducted before the postseason. AP MLB: https://apnews.com/MLB

'Why fish only cut Pakistan's cable': Bilawal slams PML-N govt over 'internet slowdown' "PML-N's politics is based on motorways [...] they are infrastructure of 90s," says PPP chairman Wondering why fish only cut Pakistan's undersea internet cables, PPP Chairman Bilawal Bhutto reminded the PML-N-led federal government that modern infrastructure revolves around digitalisation, internet, and its speed. "PML-N's politics is based on motorways [...] they are infrastructure of 90s," Bilawal, who also served as the top diplomat during Shehbaz Sharif's previous stint as prime minister, said while speaking to journalists in Ratodero. Users across various cities in Pakistan continue to face sporadic internet disruption and slow speed, resulting in difficulties with browsing, as well as downloading and sharing media. According to a list issued by Ookla Speedtest Global Index, Pakistan was ranked 100 out of 111 countries in mobile internet speeds with a download speed of 20.61Mbps and upload speed of 8.53Mbps. Meanwhile, the index ranked the country at 141 out of 158 countries in broadband speeds with a download speed of 15.60Mbps and upload speed of 15.53Mbps. Talking to media today, Bilawal — whose party is an ally of the PML-N in Centre — said they should have increased the internet speed instead of reducing it. "How can the government retract from its own statements," he asked, noting first they claimed the internet cable had been cut, later they retracted it. "Why bother with VPNs when the public doesn't even have reliable high-speed internet?" the PPP chairman asked. Responding to a question, he said that water is everyone's fundamental right and the PPP has always tried to resolve the problems being faced by the people. "We agreed that the development budget of all four provinces would be chalked out with mutual consultation," he said, adding that it seems the federal government "is not treating smaller provinces well". Furthermore, he said, the PML-N-led government lacks a mandate for "unilateral and controversial" decisions — referring to the federal government’s plan to build new canals to draw additional water from the Indus River for farming purposes. "Such projects are controversial if we move ahead in violation of the IRSA [Indus River System Authority] agreement," he added. Bilawal pointed out that Kalabagh Dam was also a unilateral decision, which the PPP did not allow to be implemented. "It is challenging to get work done from any government in Pakistan," he said, hoping that the issues of the provinces would be resolved through negotiations. He vowed that the PPP would leave no stone unturned to provide relief despite limited resources. In response to a question, the PPP chairman said that the economy was performing better "on paper", which his party welcomes. "If the economy is improving, its benefits should reach the people," he added. When asked about the pro-Imran Khan statements by United States (US) politicians, Bilawal termed them "political statements" and said those who are doing politics under the pretext of US conspiracy were "dangerous for Pakistan and its people". "Such people who play politics on conspiracies instead of focusing on public issues are dangerous for the country," he added. A day earlier, the PPP chairman said the international powers were "casting an evil eye on nuclear technology gifted by Zulfiqar Ali Bhutto and Benazir Bhutto." Expressing annoyance over “foreign interference” in Pakistan’s internal affairs, he said: “Statements are being issued from the US about our internal politics; these statements are just excuses.” He said that the US lawmakers had nothing to do with democracy in Pakistan, adding: “PTI founder is just an excuse, their real target is Pakistan’s nuclear and missile programme.” All power centres should be part of negotiation process: Asif Forces repel 'joint attack' by Afghan Taliban, khawarij at border Karachi endures coldest night of season with mercury dropping to 8.5°C Karachi road blockades' issue likely to be resolved today: mayorIT’S 5pm on Saturday night in Leeds City Centre where bars are already packed full of gangs of raucous women letting their hair down whilst cocktail shakers clatter noisily in the background. An hour later, tables are strewn with empty porn star martini glasses and half-downed bottles of Prosecco, as the lively crowd takes to the dance floor. Following a boozy afternoon it feels like the punters here have already had their fill, and it’s a scene which will play out between now and Christmas in this buzzing northern city where I was born and bred. It’s a place where women certainly know how to let their hair down and I used to be one of them. I've encountered all sorts on nights out - from my mate flashing her t**s and running through a car wash, witnessing an amorous couple having sex in a car park, me backflipping off a table, to another pal being sprayed with a fire extinguisher by a bouncer. That was until I ended up so paralytic after a daytime drinking session with friends in the city I ended up in a car at midnight with strangers who saw me stranded and offered me a lift home. I vaguely remember getting into a taxi just before, but minutes into the six-mile journey home the driver told me to get out. I’m not sure whether I offended him, or if he was worried I was so drunk that I might be sick in the car, but my next memory is shuffling my way along the side of the road in high heels, completely alone. I was incredibly lucky and made it home unscathed to my husband and two young children, but it’s terrifying to think how differently that night could’ve turned out. And it was all because I didn’t know my alcohol limits and when I got started I simply couldn’t stop. While I've now been predominantly sober since 2020, before I was your 'classic binge drinker' - I didn't see the point in drinking if it wasn't to get p****d. Now, women like me are under the spotlight and the latest statistics are concerning. According to the most up-to-date Department of Health and Social Care figures for Leeds from 2022/23, there were 1,330 female alcohol-related admissions to the city’s two hospitals Leeds General Infirmary and St James’s. The city was also rated the second most dangerous binge drinking city after London in a study by private alcohol rehab clinic, Delamere. Its research looked at the numbers of bars and nightclubs, alcohol-related hospital admissions, off-licences and alcoholism rates combined. Experts say fuelling the statistics are bottomless brunches which are a staple of Leeds, a city which has also been ranked 8th on the list of the booziest cities in the UK according to research by reduced-alcohol retailer DrinkWell - and a huge hit with women rather than men. In a one-mile radius, Leeds City Centre offers 25 bottomless brunch locations which start as low as £26 per person for 90 minutes of unlimited beer, wine and cocktails. Even now in the run up to Christmas when alcohol consumption increases as office parties and boozy nights kick off, one bar has a sign on the window claiming to be the number one bottomless brunch spot in the city. Who is going to pay for a bottomless brunch if you’re only going to have a glass or two? It’s just not worth it. The whole idea of it is to get absolutely smashed. I was no stranger to a bottomless brunch where me and my friends made the most of the unlimited drinks. The ethos is simple and that’s to binge drink as much alcohol during the time slot. I did around five bottomless brunches before realising they were the devil - they took my binge drinking attitude and multiplied it by five. Women love them, they’re touted as being drinking sophistication, aimed at girls who want to get dressed up and spend the day in a classy bar. We worked our absolute hardest to make sure we got as many refills for the money as possible. Who is going to pay for a bottomless brunch if you’re only going to have a glass or two? It’s just not worth it. The whole idea of it is to get absolutely smashed. In the most recent health survey for England published in September, 78 per cent of women said they had drunk alcohol in the previous 12 months, with 15 per cent drinking at increasing or higher levels of harm per week. Four per cent of women admitted drinking over 35 units per week. According to the most recent ONS statistics, from 2018, liver disease is consistently among the top three causes of death each year among women aged 39-45. And when the Organisation for Economic Co-operation and Development (OECD) compared alcohol consumption across 33 countries, British women topped the global chart for binge drinking - defined as at least six drinks in one session. Amin Bini, 49, who owns popular takeaway, Dixy Chicken in Leeds city centre which is open until 4am on weekends, says some female customers - like me - often need help getting home safely. He said: "Sometimes we have to get customers a taxi or you have to charge their phones. “I've woken some people up, given them a free bottle of water and helped them outside so they can get some fresh air. "One woman came in once and we had to call the police and when they arrived they had to call an ambulance." Amin sees his job as being much more than just serving food and he sees it as his responsibility to keep women safe. He said: "You have to be very, very patient with them.. You have to take care of them - when they come into my takeaway, I want them to feel safe. "Especially with females because if they don't know what they're doing, they can put themselves in danger and people outside can take advantage of them. "It's not just serving takeaways, it's managing the situation that you see in front of you.” Alcohol-specific deaths are at their highest levels in the UK, since records began in 2001. Although the problem is undoubtedly bigger in men, more women under the age of 45 are dying due to alcohol-related liver disease, or ARLD, than ever before, according to Office for National Statistics (ONS) figures from 2001-22. Meanwhile, Dr Richard Piper, CEO at Alcohol Change UK said alcohol and binge drinking are often dangerously associated with ‘self-care’ for women. He says: “We need only look to sponsorships in prime-time television shows aimed at women, highly visible advertising as they travel to and from work, and the often inescapable (but false) associations between alcohol and self-care - ‘me time’ and ‘girls’ night’ - to see how much effort and investment from alcohol companies goes into placing it in the spotlight of our day-to-day lives and society.” The NHS defines binge drinking as ‘drinking heavily over a short space of time’. More than 8 units of alcohol in a single session for males, or more than 6 units in a single session for females is the technical definition, according to Drinkaware. That’s equivalent to about four pints of normal strength beer for a man or three pints for a woman. When you binge drink, other than getting drunk, your heart rate and blood pressure will rise. It can cause irregular heartbeats, known as arrhythmias. Alcohol increases stomach acid production - queue the nausea and potentially vomiting. You're also likely to experience impaired judgement, coordination, memory blackouts and poor decision making. This could lead to accidents, falls, drownings and other mistakes. Long term, binge drinking can cause acute liver damage and increase the risk of chronic liver diseases such as cirrhosis and liver cancer. Cardiovascular problems include cardiomyopathy - which is when the heart loses the ability to pump blood efficiently - and an increased risk of stroke. Over time, binge drinking can contribute to permanent brain damage. This may present as a mental health condition, such as anxiety or depression. Binge drinking can also lead to alcohol dependence, or "addiction". Dr Katherine Severi, Chief Executive of the Institute of Alcohol Studies agrees that the ‘targeted tactics’ to encourage binge drinking come at a high cost to women’s health and well-being. She said: “Alarmingly, over the past 20 years, deaths from alcohol among women have increased by 91 per cent. "One major factor behind this trend is the alcohol industry’s targeted marketing towards women. “The recent emergence of ‘bottomless brunches’ is an example of how women are nudged towards social occasions that revolve around heavy drinking. “These targeted tactics are not only effective; they come at a high cost to women’s health and well-being." Now I'm about to turn 50 later this month, and while I might have the odd glass here and there I steer clear of wine completely and I’m adamant that I won’t slip back into my old ways. Alcohol is the second biggest risk factor for death in the UK - I’m actually thankful that I was pushed into making a decision to quit drinking to excess. The day I reach my sixth decade is a milestone I want to remember. A spokesperson for Leeds City Council said: “Teams across the council work closely together and with our partners to ensure that people can enjoy Leeds’ thriving hospitality sector safely. “Our licensing team liaises closely with licensed venues supporting them to operate responsibly and meet their legal obligations, such as not supplying alcohol to those who are intoxicated. "Our guidance includes providing a substantial food offering and drinking water, pacing the provision of drinks, ensuring all staff are vigilant and door supervisors monitor customers leaving the premises. Anyone who is struggling with the impact of drug or alcohol use is encouraged to seek help from Forward Leeds .

James Argent reveals he's moving in with his girlfriend Nicoline Artursson and they already 'want a family' just four months after they met at a supermarket Do YOU have a story? Email tips@dailymail.com By POPPY ATKINSON GIBSON Published: 20:51, 30 November 2024 | Updated: 20:54, 30 November 2024 e-mail View comments James Argent has revealed he's already moving in with his new girlfriend Nicoline Artursson, just months after meeting her outside a supermarket. The TOWIE star, 36, previously battled drink and drug abuse but after attending rehabilitation, which involved a gastric band operation, and shedding 14 stone, he has turned his life around. The star is also so smitten with his model girlfriend that he's even ready to settle down and have children. Speaking to OK! Magazine in their first joint interview, James and Nicoline, 31, revealed that it was love at first sight for the pair after they bumped into each other outside a Spanish supermarket. And since that fateful meeting, Nicoline moved to the UK and has now moved into Arg's Essex home. Describing the moment they met, James revealed he thought Nicoline was out of his league but decided he had nothing to lose. James Argent, 36, has revealed he's already moving in with his new girlfriend Nicoline Artursson, 31, just months after meeting her outside a supermarket The star revealed that just months after their fateful meeting, they're so smitten that they're already planning to start a family He said: 'I was walking to my gig at Elliott Wright's restaurant in Marbella. 'All of a sudden I see this woman coming towards me. I was like, 'Wow, she's beautiful.' She was just in her gym clothes, wearing no make-up. She'd actually just fed a stray cat.' And after summoning up the courage, James asked her out. Nicole described James as a handsome man with a big smile, before adding that he makes her laugh, and it was these traits that helped cement their relationship. James and Nicoline went on their first date a week later, where James explained about his past addiction issues and his weight loss, and the couple were so engrossed in one another that they forgot to order anything to eat. Despite James's confession about his seven-year drug addiction which saw him go through a near-fatal overdose, a hospitalisation and a stint on rehab, the model was unfazed. He explained: 'I've been through a lot over the years. I've been to rehab, I've had to get help. I also had to explain that I used to be morbidly obese, I was a big guy and I've lost a lot of weight. I've had an operation which has helped with my portion control. I have to eat little and often. 'It was probably quite a lot to take in, but she was really cool. She was fine about everything. Being open and honest and putting your cards on the table from the start is so important.' James explained they would both 'love to have a family one day, absolutely.' while Nicoline added that one her favourite things about James is 'he’s very family-oriented' And Nicoline echoed James adding that the pair had decided to be completely open with each other from the start. And now, several months later, the pair seem more loved up than ever and during the interview, the blonde beauty who previously modelled for Abercrombie & Fitch pointed out her Christmas stocking on the fireplace in the reality star's living room. James explained they would both 'love to have a family one day, absolutely.' while Nicoline added that one her favourite things about James is 'he’s very family-oriented'. James said: 'We’re both at the right stage in our lives. We’ve both lived a life, we’ve both had experiences with previous partners, but now it’s a really good time to be sure of who you are with.' But for the moment they seem to be enjoying each other's company. In September, James packed on the PDA with his Nicoline as the couple were spotted snogging in St Tropez. The former TOWIE star seemed besotted with his former Miss Sweden love as the pair enjoyed a dip in the sea. James said: 'We’re both at the right stage in our lives. We’ve both lived a life, we’ve both had experiences with previous partners' Read More James Argent goes Instagram official with Miss Sweden girlfriend Nicoline Artursson James showed off his toned physique as he went shirtless and wore a pair of blue patterned shorts. James whisked his new girlfriend away for a lavish long weekend at Indie Beach at Plague de Pampelonne, The Sun revealed. Nicoline, 31, won the Miss World Sweden beauty pageant in 2011 and modelled for Abercrombie & Fitch. She was also asked to take part in the French version The Bacherlorette but declined to focus on her studies. It is James's first relationship since splitting from his ex Stella Turian last November and the star previously opened up about feeling he would never find someone. In March, Arg told the My Dirty Laundry podcast that he really struggled on Valentine's day because of his single status - and had to stay off social media because it got him down so much. Having tackled his demons, staying sober for two years and losing 15 stone in weight, James said: 'I'm in a really good place. Everything in my life is perfect, apart from my love life. It would be nice if that would change. 'I'll be completely honest, this year I really struggled on Valentine's Day. I remember, I woke up and thought, I am not going to look at social media. 'It's not that I'm heartbroken or upset, but just because I knew it's not going to make me feel great because I didn't have a Valentine, I don't have a girlfriend. James broke up with Stella Turian in November after a year-long romance and said 'It's not that I'm heartbroken or upset, but just because I knew social media was not going to make me feel great because I didn't have a Valentine, I don't have a girlfriend. 'But, I couldn't help it. There was times where I'd just have a little glance and all you would see was couples. Everyone's madly in love. Everyone's happy. 'Everyone's out on dates. There's flowers, there's balloons, there's chocolates, there's date nights or trips or happily married couples - and yeah, it did start to affect me a little bit.' James also admitted to OK! magazine that following the breakdown of his last relationship he lost his confidence. He explained he was worried he wouldn't meet anyone new or have the chance to settle down but he revealed that's all changed now. He added that Nicoline is his biggest supporter and knew it was love when she said she liked his singing. And Nicoline has slotted into the reality star's life with ease with James exposing her to a proper Essex night out and even a Sunday roast which the model says is her new favourite food. The beauty has also been welcomed with open arms into the TOWIE family, meeting many of James's friends, including Mark Wright and Joey Essex. TOWIE James Argent Share or comment on this article: James Argent reveals he's moving in with his girlfriend Nicoline Artursson and they already 'want a family' just four months after they met at a supermarket e-mail Add comment

Opinion: How the science of child development can help parents stress less this holiday seasonUS stocks take a breather, Asian bourses rise in post-Christmas tradeThe U.S. Election's Impact On REITs

BEIJING, Dec. 28, 2024 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) -- Aqueous Film-Forming Foam (AFFF) has long been praised for its ability to extinguish fires swiftly, thanks to the inclusion of PFOS (Perfluorooctane Sulfonic Acid). Despite its effectiveness, the presence of PFOS has raised serious concerns about environmental pollution and potential risks to public health – according to a new article by China News Network. In an effort to address these issues, the Foreign Environmental Cooperation Center (FECO) of the Ministry of Ecology and Environment, in partnership with the World Bank and supported by the Global Environment Facility (GEF), has launched the “Reduction and Phase-Out of PFOS in Priority Sectors Project in China.” This program aims to develop and implement safer, more sustainable alternatives for firefighting across the country. Beyond simply improving fire suppression technology, the initiative is designed to protect ecosystems, safeguard public health, and foster a greener future for generations to come. Through innovative research and collaborative action, China is making significant strides in managing and ultimately eliminating the use of PFOS in firefighting foam. PR Contact Name: Wen Tianxia Email: guojixinwenbu@chinanews.com.cn Phone Number: +86(010)68315046 A video accompanying this announcement is available at https://www.globenewswire.com/NewsRoom/AttachmentNg/65c26b6b-0ff4-4f12-9794-882d1f71bdb6The Ministry of National Security has issued a press release dismissing rumours circulating on social media that the Minister for National Security, Albert Kan-Dapaah, has been kidnapped. The Ministry described these claims as entirely false, baseless, and without merit. This development comes at a time when Ghana’s national security has been under scrutiny. In recent months, the country has witnessed efforts to strengthen its national security architecture. For instance, the Vice President, Dr. Mahamudu Bawumia, has emphasized the government’s commitment to dealing with cyber-related crimes, particularly as Ghana prepares for the 4th industrial revolution. Additionally, the Ministry of National Security has been working to implement the National Security Strategy, which aims to protect and safeguard Ghana from threats, risks, and challenges to its security and stability. The strategy involves coordinating a national response effort and ensuring effective border management. In this context, the Ministry’s swift response to the kidnapping rumours is seen as a proactive measure to maintain public confidence and security. The Ministry cautioned individuals behind such fabrications to refrain from spreading unverified information, which has the potential to undermine national security. -BY Daniel BampoeASML LEGAL DEADLINE: ASML Holding N.V. Class Action Deadline is Approaching – Contact BFA Law if You Suffered Losses (NASDAQ:ASML)

ISRO’s SpaDEX to make history in space docking: Min Jitendra SinghNational Security Denies Kidnapping Rumours Of Kan-Dapaah49ers vs. Lions final injury report: 4 ruled out, 4 questionable for Monday night showdown

Strictly Come Dancing fans were left fuming and heartbroken after the show Fans of Strictly Come Dancing have expressed outrage over what they believe to be 'unfair' scoring from the judges. The hit BBC programme graced screens once again on Saturday, November 30, showcasing the talents of the six remaining dance pairs. Among the performances were Montell Douglas and Johannes Radebe's Rumba to I'm Here from The Colour Purple, Sarah Hadland and Vito Coppola's Charleston to Popular from Wicked, Tasha Ghouri and Aljaz Skorjanec with an Argentine Tango set to Ex-Wives from SIX. Chris McCausland and Dianne Buswell did a Quickstep to You're The Top from Anything Goes, JB Gill and Lauren Oakley performed a Viennese Waltz to Let's Go Fly A Kite from Mary Poppins, and Pete Wicks and Jowita Przysta's Waltz accompanied Somewhere from West Side Story. However, the disparity in marks for various contestants has left viewers incensed, prompting them to air their grievances across social media platforms. One upset fan commented: "Craig doesn't want to overlook JB's thumb but Pete can botch the whole dance and it's fine! #Strictly," while another said: "Feel Chris and Dianne are underscored there. Better than his paso doble but 3 marks less." Further complaints included remarks such as: "Judges undermarking Chris and Dianne again #Strictly," and: "Should've been 40...again. Always undermarking Sarah! #Strictly," reports the Mirror . Another disappointed viewer noted: "Three judges scoring Pete the same as Craig did for Chris. Score Chris higher." Strictly Come Dancing fans are now certain that the recent scoring could spell trouble for Montell or Chris, with one fan lamenting on social media: "Chris and Montell undermarked, i wouldn't be surprised if Montell is in the dance off yet again, feel so bad for her, Pete should be voted out now #strictly." In the same vein, another viewer remarked: "About time for Pete to leave but it will probably be Montell #Strictly." This follows the stunning exit of EastEnders actor Jamie Borthwick from the dance floor. His leaving has been met with disappointment from fans who were sad to see him go. Partnered with professional dancer Michelle, she became emotional as she sang Jamie's praises. She conveyed to him: "I just want to say it goes without saying Jamie is an amazing dancer, and he's improved so much week by week. He's worked so hard to get to where he is." She further reflected: "It's my first year with a partner and I've realised that it's so much more than just the dancing and the technique, it's the bonds and the friendships that you make. I waited two years for a partner and I wouldn't have had it any other way." Additionally, Jamie shared his own heartfelt sentiment: "Strictly is magic. That is all I can say. Strictly is magic. Not just everyone who you see in front of the camera, these four here [the judges], but everyone who works on this show." "I have such a good bond and relationship with and that's what made me want to do this show, it's the people, not what I'm doing. I've had the best time. I could ramble on all day about this one [Michelle]. She's a new pro and she's absolutely been the most amazing teacher. We have laughed like you wouldn't believe. I have nothing but the utmost respect for everyone on the show, so thank you." Strictly Come Dancing is on BBC One and BBC iPlayerNEW YORK (AP) — President-elect Donald Trump’s lawyers formally asked a judge Monday to throw out his hush money criminal conviction , arguing that continuing the case would present unconstitutional “disruptions to the institution of the Presidency.“ In a filing made public Tuesday, Trump’s lawyers told Manhattan Judge Juan M. Merchan that anything short of immediate dismissal would undermine the transition of power, as well as the “overwhelming national mandate" granted to Trump by voters last month. They also cited President Joe Biden’s recent pardon of his son, Hunter Biden, who had been convicted of tax and gun charges . “President Biden asserted that his son was ‘selectively, and unfairly, prosecuted,’ and ‘treated differently,’" Trump’s legal team wrote. Manhattan District Attorney Alvin Bragg, they claimed, had engaged in the type of political theater "that President Biden condemned.” Prosecutors will have until Dec. 9 to respond. They have said they will fight any efforts to dismiss the case but have indicated a willingness to delay the sentencing until after Trump’s second term ends in 2029. In their filing Monday, Trump's attorneys dismissed the idea of holding off sentencing until Trump is out of office as a “ridiculous suggestion.” Following Trump’s election victory last month, Merchan halted proceedings and indefinitely postponed his sentencing, previously scheduled for late November, to allow the defense and prosecution to weigh in on the future of the case. He also delayed a decision on Trump’s prior bid to dismiss the case on immunity grounds. Trump has been fighting for months to reverse his conviction on 34 counts of falsifying business records to conceal a $130,000 payment to porn actor Stormy Daniels to suppress her claim that they had sex a decade earlier. He says they did not and denies any wrongdoing. The defense filing was signed by Trump lawyers Todd Blanche and Emil Bove, who represented Trump during the trial and have since been selected by the president-elect to fill senior roles at the Justice Department. Taking a swipe at Bragg and New York City, as Trump often did throughout the trial, the filing argues that dismissal would also benefit the public by giving him and “the numerous prosecutors assigned to this case a renewed opportunity to put an end to deteriorating conditions in the City and to protect its residents from violent crime.” Clearing Trump, the lawyers added, would also allow him to “to devote all of his energy to protecting the Nation.” Merchan hasn’t yet set a timetable for a decision. He could decide to uphold the verdict and proceed to sentencing, delay the case until Trump leaves office, wait until a federal appeals court rules on Trump’s parallel effort to get the case moved out of state court or choose some other option. An outright dismissal of the New York case would further lift a legal cloud that at one point carried the prospect of derailing Trump’s political future. Last week, special counsel Jack Smith told courts that he was withdrawing both federal cases against Trump — one charging him with hoarding classified documents at his Florida estate, the other with scheming to overturn the 2020 presidential election he lost — citing longstanding Justice Department policy that shields a president from indictment while in office. The hush money case was the only one of Trump’s four criminal indictments to go to trial, resulting in a historic verdict that made him the first former president to be convicted of a crime. Prosecutors had cast the payout as part of a Trump-driven effort to keep voters from hearing salacious stories about him. Trump’s then-lawyer Michael Cohen paid Daniels. Trump later reimbursed him, and Trump’s company logged the reimbursements as legal expenses — concealing what they really were, prosecutors alleged. Trump has said the payments to Cohen were properly categorized as legal expenses for legal work. A month after the verdict, the Supreme Court ruled that ex-presidents can’t be prosecuted for official acts — things they did in the course of running the country — and that prosecutors can’t cite those actions to bolster a case centered on purely personal, unofficial conduct. Trump’s lawyers cited the ruling to argue that the hush money jury got some improper evidence, such as Trump’s presidential financial disclosure form, testimony from some White House aides and social media posts made during his first term. Prosecutors disagreed and said the evidence in question was only “a sliver” of their case. If the verdict stands and the case proceeds to sentencing, Trump’s punishments would range from a fine to probation to up to four years in prison — but it’s unlikely he’d spend any time behind bars for a first-time conviction involving charges in the lowest tier of felonies. Because it is a state case, Trump would not be able to pardon himself once he returns to office. Copyright 2024 The Associated Press. All rights reserved. This material may not be published, broadcast, rewritten or redistributed without permission. Get local news delivered to your inbox!

Trump asks Supreme Court to delay TikTok ban so he can weigh in after he takes office

Stocks closed higher on Wall Street as the market posted its fifth straight gain and the Dow Jones Industrial Average notched another record high. The S&P 500 rose 0.3%. The benchmark index’s 1.7% gain for the week erased most of its loss from last week. The Dow rose 1% as it nudged past its most recent high set last week, and the Nasdaq composite rose 0.2%. Markets have been volatile over the last few weeks, losing ground in the runup to elections in November, then surging following Donald Trump’s victory, before falling again. The S&P 500 has been steadily rising throughout this week to within close range of its record. It’s now within about 0.5% of its all-time high set last week. “Overall, market behavior has normalized following an intense few weeks,” said Mark Hackett, chief of investment research at Nationwide, in a statement. Several retailers jumped after giving Wall Street encouraging financial updates. Gap soared 12.8% after handily beating analysts’ third-quarter earnings and revenue expectations, while raising its own revenue forecast for the year. Discount retailer Ross Stores rose 2.2% after raising its earnings forecast for the year. EchoStar fell 2.8% after DirecTV called off its purchase of that company’s Dish Network unit. Smaller company stocks had some of the biggest gains. The Russell 2000 index rose 1.8%. A majority of stocks in the S&P 500 gained ground, but those gains were kept in check by slumps for several big technology companies. Nvidia fell 3.2%. Its pricey valuation makes it among the heaviest influences on whether the broader market gains or loses ground. The company has grown into a nearly $3.6 trillion behemoth because of demand for its chips used in artificial-intelligence technology. Intuit, which makes TurboTax and other accounting software, fell 5.7%. It gave investors a quarterly earnings forecast that fell short of analysts’ expectations. Facebook owner Meta Platforms fell 0.7% following a decision by the Supreme Court to allow a multibillion-dollar class action investors’ lawsuit to proceed against the company. It stems from the privacy scandal involving the Cambridge Analytica political consulting firm. All told, the S&P 500 rose 20.63 points to 5,969.34. The Dow climbed 426.16 points to 44,296.51, and the Nasdaq picked up 42.65 points to close at 2,406.67. European markets closed mostly higher and Asian markets ended mixed. Crude oil prices rose. Treasury yields held relatively steady in the bond market. The yield on the 10-year Treasury fell to 4.41% from 4.42% late Thursday. In the crypto market, bitcoin hovered around $99,000, according to CoinDesk. It has more than doubled this year and first surpassed the $99,000 level on Thursday. Retailers remained a big focus for investors this week amid close scrutiny on consumer spending habits headed into the holiday shopping season. Walmart, the nation’s largest retailer, reported a quarter of strong sales and gave investors an encouraging financial forecast. Target, though, reported weaker earnings than analysts’ expected and its forecast disappointed Wall Street. Consumer spending has fueled economic growth, despite a persistent squeeze from inflation and high borrowing costs. Inflation has been easing and the Federal Reserve has started trimming its benchmark interest rates. That is likely to help relieve pressure on consumers, but any major shift in spending could prompt the Fed to reassess its path ahead on interest rates. Also, any big reversals on the rate of inflation could curtail spending. Consumer sentiment remains strong, according to the University of Michigan’s consumer sentiment index. It revised its latest figure for November to 71.8 from an initial reading of 73 earlier this month, though economists expected a slight increase. It’s still up from 70.5 in October. The survey also showed that consumers’ inflation expectations for the year ahead fell slightly to 2.6%, which is the lowest reading since December of 2020. Wall Street will get another update on how consumers feel when the business group The Conference Board releases its monthly consumer confidence survey on Tuesday. A key inflation update will come on Wednesday when the U.S. releases its October personal consumption expenditures index. The PCE is the Fed’s preferred measure of inflation and this will be the last PCE reading prior to the central bank’s meeting in December. Stocks closed higher on Wall Street as the market posted The owners of a Colorado funeral home who let nearly The Supreme Court on Friday stepped into a major legal Oil company Phillips 66 has been federally indicted in connectionPeople In USA Left Amazed When They're Calling 1-800-242-8478. Here's WhyIT’S 5pm on Saturday night in Leeds City Centre where bars are already packed full of gangs of raucous women letting their hair down whilst cocktail shakers clatter noisily in the background. An hour later, tables are strewn with empty porn star martini glasses and half-downed bottles of Prosecco, as the lively crowd takes to the dance floor. Following a boozy afternoon it feels like the punters here have already had their fill, and it’s a scene which will play out between now and Christmas in this buzzing northern city where I was born and bred. It’s a place where women certainly know how to let their hair down and I used to be one of them. I've encountered all sorts on nights out - from my mate flashing her t**s and running through a car wash, witnessing an amorous couple having sex in a car park, me backflipping off a table, to another pal being sprayed with a fire extinguisher by a bouncer. That was until I ended up so paralytic after a daytime drinking session with friends in the city I ended up in a car at midnight with strangers who saw me stranded and offered me a lift home. READ MORE FABULOUS REAL LIFE I vaguely remember getting into a taxi just before, but minutes into the six-mile journey home the driver told me to get out. I’m not sure whether I offended him, or if he was worried I was so drunk that I might be sick in the car, but my next memory is shuffling my way along the side of the road in high heels, completely alone. I was incredibly lucky and made it home unscathed to my husband and two young children, but it’s terrifying to think how differently that night could’ve turned out. Binge drinking danger And it was all because I didn’t know my alcohol limits and when I got started I simply couldn’t stop. Most read in Fabulous While I've now been predominantly sober since 2020, before I was your 'classic binge drinker' - I didn't see the point in drinking if it wasn't to get p****d. Now, women like me are under the spotlight and the latest statistics are concerning. According to the most up-to-date Department of Health and Social Care figures for Leeds from 2022/23, there were 1,330 female alcohol-related admissions to the city’s two hospitals Leeds General Infirmary and St James’s. The city was also rated the second most dangerous binge drinking city after London in a study by private alcohol rehab clinic, Delamere. Its research looked at the numbers of bars and nightclubs, alcohol-related hospital admissions, off-licences and alcoholism rates combined. Endless boozy bottomless brunches Experts say fuelling the statistics are bottomless brunches which are a staple of Leeds, a city which has also been ranked 8th on the list of the booziest cities in the UK according to research by reduced-alcohol retailer DrinkWell - and a huge hit with women rather than men. In a one-mile radius, Leeds City Centre offers 25 bottomless brunch locations which start as low as £26 per person for 90 minutes of unlimited beer, wine and cocktails. Even now in the run up to Christmas when alcohol consumption increases as office parties and boozy nights kick off, one bar has a sign on the window claiming to be the number one bottomless brunch spot in the city. Who is going to pay for a bottomless brunch if you’re only going to have a glass or two? It’s just not worth it. The whole idea of it is to get absolutely smashed. I was no stranger to a bottomless brunch where me and my friends made the most of the unlimited drinks. The ethos is simple and that’s to binge drink as much alcohol during the time slot. I did around five bottomless brunches before realising they were the devil - they took my binge drinking attitude and multiplied it by five. Women love them, they’re touted as being drinking sophistication, aimed at girls who want to get dressed up and spend the day in a classy bar. We worked our absolute hardest to make sure we got as many refills for the money as possible. Who is going to pay for a bottomless brunch if you’re only going to have a glass or two? It’s just not worth it. The whole idea of it is to get absolutely smashed. Sobering statistics In the most recent health survey for England published in September, 78 per cent of women said they had drunk alcohol in the previous 12 months, with 15 per cent drinking at increasing or higher levels of harm per week. Four per cent of women admitted drinking over 35 units per week. According to the most recent ONS statistics, from 2018, liver disease is consistently among the top three causes of death each year among women aged 39-45. And when the Organisation for Economic Co-operation and Development (OECD) compared alcohol consumption across 33 countries, British women topped the global chart for binge drinking - defined as at least six drinks in one session. Relying on kindness of strangers Amin Bini, 49, who owns popular takeaway, Dixy Chicken in Leeds city centre which is open until 4am on weekends, says some female customers - like me - often need help getting home safely. He said: "Sometimes we have to get customers a taxi or you have to charge their phones. “I've woken some people up, given them a free bottle of water and helped them outside so they can get some fresh air. "One woman came in once and we had to call the police and when they arrived they had to call an ambulance." Amin sees his job as being much more than just serving food and he sees it as his responsibility to keep women safe. He said: "You have to be very, very patient with them.. You have to take care of them - when they come into my takeaway, I want them to feel safe. "Especially with females because if they don't know what they're doing, they can put themselves in danger and people outside can take advantage of them. "It's not just serving takeaways, it's managing the situation that you see in front of you.” 'Girls' night' association Alcohol-specific deaths are at their highest levels in the UK, since records began in 2001. Although the problem is undoubtedly bigger in men, more women under the age of 45 are dying due to alcohol-related liver disease, or ARLD, than ever before, according to Office for National Statistics (ONS) figures from 2001-22. Meanwhile, Dr Richard Piper, CEO at Alcohol Change UK said alcohol and binge drinking are often dangerously associated with ‘self-care’ for women. He says: “We need only look to sponsorships in prime-time television shows aimed at women, highly visible advertising as they travel to and from work, and the often inescapable (but false) associations between alcohol and self-care - ‘me time’ and ‘girls’ night’ - to see how much effort and investment from alcohol companies goes into placing it in the spotlight of our day-to-day lives and society.” The NHS defines binge drinking as ‘drinking heavily over a short space of time’. More than 8 units of alcohol in a single session for males, or more than 6 units in a single session for females is the technical definition, according to Drinkaware. That’s equivalent to about four pints of normal strength beer for a man or three pints for a woman. When you binge drink, other than getting drunk, your heart rate and blood pressure will rise. It can cause irregular heartbeats, known as arrhythmias. Alcohol increases stomach acid production - queue the nausea and potentially vomiting. You're also likely to experience impaired judgement, coordination, memory blackouts and poor decision making. This could lead to accidents, falls, drownings and other mistakes. Long term, binge drinking can cause acute liver damage and increase the risk of chronic liver diseases such as cirrhosis and liver cancer. Cardiovascular problems include cardiomyopathy - which is when the heart loses the ability to pump blood efficiently - and an increased risk of stroke. Over time, binge drinking can contribute to permanent brain damage. This may present as a mental health condition, such as anxiety or depression. Binge drinking can also lead to alcohol dependence, or "addiction". A high health cost Dr Katherine Severi, Chief Executive of the Institute of Alcohol Studies agrees that the ‘targeted tactics’ to encourage binge drinking come at a high cost to women’s health and well-being. She said: “Alarmingly, over the past 20 years, deaths from alcohol among women have increased by 91 per cent. "One major factor behind this trend is the alcohol industry’s targeted marketing towards women. “The recent emergence of ‘bottomless brunches’ is an example of how women are nudged towards social occasions that revolve around heavy drinking. “These targeted tactics are not only effective; they come at a high cost to women’s health and well-being." 'I won't slip back into old ways' Now I'm about to turn 50 later this month, and while I might have the odd glass here and there I steer clear of wine completely and I’m adamant that I won’t slip back into my old ways. Alcohol is the second biggest risk factor for death in the UK - I’m actually thankful that I was pushed into making a decision to quit drinking to excess. The day I reach my sixth decade is a milestone I want to remember. A spokesperson for Leeds City Council said: “Teams across the council work closely together and with our partners to ensure that people can enjoy Leeds’ thriving hospitality sector safely. “Our licensing team liaises closely with licensed venues supporting them to operate responsibly and meet their legal obligations, such as not supplying alcohol to those who are intoxicated. READ MORE SUN STORIES "Our guidance includes providing a substantial food offering and drinking water, pacing the provision of drinks, ensuring all staff are vigilant and door supervisors monitor customers leaving the premises. Anyone who is struggling with the impact of drug or alcohol use is encouraged to seek help from Forward Leeds .