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In the past two days, there have been two reports of sharks caught by anglers on the Huntington Beach Pier.

Castonguay, Doherty make final eight; World Cup starts Saturday(TNS) — Indiana State University junior Elaine Hardman played a Valorant video game on the competition stage of ISU’s new eSports lab Tuesday during the grand opening of the new facility in Jones Hall. She wasn’t alone. The room was crowded with visitors and students eager to use the new facility, which has 25 new gaming computers and other technology. Funded through student fees and philanthropy, it will be used for both competitive and recreational gaming. “It’s awesome. It’s nothing short of what I think ISU needs,” said Hardman, who will play competitively on the Valorant eSports team at ISU; her teammates were also on the stage. There are two others teams, Super Smash Brothers and Rocket League; that’s expanded from one Super Smash Brothers team that competed last spring. All three will play teams from other Missouri Valley Conference schools. Said ISU president Mike Godard, “Having a venue like this helps us recruit the next generation of students who want to have this type of space, whether or not they are competitive players or recreational players.” The initiative also will pair up with academic programs, as there are many career opportunities. Esports has become a global phenomenon and a multi-billion dollar industry, Godard said. “We want to make sure that we have opportunities for our students who are interested on the production side, the media side, the business side ... and those who really like to play and are competitive players as well,” he said. Michele Soliz, ISU vice president for student affairs, said the new eSports lab “is important to the student experience. We want all students to feel a sense of belonging on our campus. We know students who get involved in gaming have different interests than other students. This is a way to meet all of our students’ needs.” The idea for the eSports initiative grew out of student interest, she said. Among those pleased with the new lab is Cam Parvin, an ISU staff member who coaches the Super Smash Brothers team, which played in competition this past spring. “I’m astounded by the turnout and the reaction,” he said. “We’re hoping it’s a wonderful asset for the students, both for recreation and education.” The lab also has a production desk as well as Nintendo Switch, Xbox series X and PlayStation 5. It also has some wheelchair accessible desks. Parvin agreed that “something like this is important for actually giving people a sense of community.” Luke Kanter, a student and member of the Super Smash Brothers team, said of the new eSports lab, “I think it’s great ... I didn’t know how big this would be.” He’s not surprised by the level of interest “because there are so many people who really like video games.” Brayton Mier, another student on the Super Smash Brothers team, transferred from Purdue to ISU this year. “It’s incredible,” Mier said of the lab. “It’s so nice to have a whole new space where you can meet in person with people and meet new friends” who share an interest in gaming. Also Tuesday, officials announced Indiana State University’s partnership with the Indiana Association of School Principals. ISU will be the main sponsor of the IASP new eSports program. Todd Bess, an Indiana State alumnus and IASP executive director, spoke at the grand opening. “We’ve been looking and working to develop an eSports program at the middle and high school level,” Bess said. IASP does many academic competitions. “Involving ourselves in eSports or digital sports allows us to connect with a another group of kids,” Bess said. “Our first competition will start this spring.” Students involved in eSports have better attendance and better grades because of their connections to people at school, he said.

California's 'Care Courts' Are Falling Short - KFF Health News

JACKSONVILLE, Fla. (AP) — Zarigue Nutter scored 22 points and secured the victory with a jump shot with two seconds remaining as Georgia State defeated Tulsa 74-71 on Wednesday. Nutter shot 9 of 15 from the field and 4 of 6 from the free-throw line for the Panthers (4-3). Cesare Edwards scored 18 points and added 16 rebounds. Nicholas McMullen had 13 points and shot 4 of 9 from the field and 5 for 8 from the line. The Golden Hurricane (4-4) were led in scoring by Keaston Willis, who finished with 18 points. Tulsa also got 16 points, 11 rebounds and seven assists from Dwon Odom. Tyshawn Archie had 12 points. The Associated Press created this story using technology provided by Data Skrive and data from Sportradar .Phillies signing RHP Jordan Romano

Saudi Arabia banned film for 35 years. The Red Sea festival is just one sign of the industry's riseNEW YORK — A person of interest identified as 26-year-old Luigi Mangione was arrested Monday in connection to the Midtown Manhattan murder of UnitedHealthcare CEO Brian Thompson outside the Hilton Hotel following a five-day manhunt, police said. The break in the shocking case came when a worker at a McDonald’s in Altoona, Penn., recognized Mangione’s face from surveillance images released by the NYPD, authorities said. The worker called in the tip and police in Altoona arrested Mangione on gun charges inside the fast food joint. He was carrying a three-page handwritten manifesto when cops found him, NYPD Commissioner Jessica Tisch told reporters at a press conference at City Hall Monday. His writings were critical of the health care industry and included complaints about how the industry treated a sick relative, police sources told the Daily News. “It does seem he has some ill will toward corporate America,” NYPD Chief of Detectives Joseph Kenny told reporters. The elusive shooter was the suspect of an intense search since the Wednesday shooting, with police scouring surveillance footage and using drones, dogs, scuba divers, and the NYPD’s high-tech “domain awareness system” in attempt to track his moments via bicycle, cab and bus. Mangione was carrying a gun that appears to match the murder weapon seen in security video of the shooting, police sources said. He also had a suppressor for the firearm, “both consistent with the weapon used in the murder,” Tisch said, as well as clothing and a mask “consistent” with the shooter’s garb. He was carrying a fake ID which matched the ID used to check into the hostel, she said. He had several fake IDs, including a U.S. passport, police said. “The gun appears to be a ghost gun, may have been made on a 3D printer,” Kenny added. Mangione was not on investigators’ radar prior to the tip and police didn’t have his name before Monday, officials said. “The combination of old-school detective work and new-age technology is what lead to this result today,” Tisch said. Added Kenny, “I really couldn’t put it on one thing but if I had to I’d put it on the release of that photograph from the media.” NYPD detectives were on their way to Pennsylvania to interview the suspect Monday afternoon. Mangione graduated top of his high school class and went on to major in computer science at University of Pennsylvania. Included on an online list of books Mangione read this year is Unabomber Theodore Kaczynski’s “Industrial Society and its Future”, which he rated four out of five stars. Police sources said Mangione’s manifesto used language similar to his online writings about Kaczynski. Mangione graduated as valedictorian of the private, all-boys Gilman School in 2016, according to the Baltimore school’s website. In a recap of the graduation ceremony posted on the site, Mangione is quoted as commending his classmates for their “inventive, pioneering mentality that accompanies a strong commitment to Gilman tradition.” Mangione’s last known address is Honolulu, Hawaii, police said. He has connections to San Francisco and no arrest history in New York City. His cousin is Nino Mangione, a GOP lawmaker who represents a suburban Baltimore district in the state’s House of Delegates, the lawmaker’s office confirmed Monday. There is no indication that Nino Mangione had any ties to the shocking assassination. Police were offering a $10,000 reward for any information leading to the gunman’s capture as the search for the masked shooter continued. The FBI also offered $50,000 for information resulting in an arrest and conviction of the suspect. Harrowing surveillance footage shows the suspect creeping up and shooting Thompson in the back on W. 54th St. near Sixth Ave. about 6:45 a.m. Wednesday. The 50-year-old CEO of the Minnesota-based company was approaching the Hilton to help prepare for an investor day conference, officials said. After shooting Thompson in the back, the gunman then coolly clears a jam in his pistol before firing at least three more times, the video shows. He fled the scene on a bicycle and disappeared in Central Park but cops picked up his trail late Wednesday night on the Upper West Side. Cops found the words “Deny,” “Delay,” and “Depose” written on the bullets — a supposed insurance industry mantra for delaying claims and maximizing profits — leading police to believe that the killer has a beef with the insurance industry. The gunman arrived in New York City on a Greyhound bus from Atlanta more than a week before unraveling his murder plot. NYPD detectives, with the help of Port Authority police, managed to track the gunman’s movements from when he first arrived in the city. Police sources said the suspect arrived in the city on a Greyhound bus from Atlanta on the evening of Nov. 24. He found his way to the HI New York City Hostel on Amsterdam Ave. near W. 104th St., where cops recovered images of the suspect without a mask and smiling at someone behind the reception desk. The hostel staffer reportedly got the suspect to smile by flirting with him and asking him to pull down his mask to “see his handsome face.” Police do not believe Mangione was trying to flee the country, Kenny said. When the tipster spotted him, the Chief of Detectives added, “He was sitting there, eating.” (Daily News staff writer David Goldiner contributed to this story.) ©2024 New York Daily News. Visit at nydailynews.com . Distributed by Tribune Content Agency, LLC.

CHICAGO (AP) — Matthew Boyd is thankful for his new opportunity with the Chicago Cubs. He is hoping to help the team reach the playoffs as a key addition to its starting rotation. The fact that his late grandpa John Boyd was a big fan? That makes this signing all the more sweet for him. Javascript is required for you to be able to read premium content. Please enable it in your browser settings. Get updates and player profiles ahead of Friday's high school games, plus a recap Saturday with stories, photos, video Frequency: Seasonal Twice a weekRuben Amorim warned “the storm will come” eventually as Manchester United’s head coach tried to temper expectations ahead of the trip to Arsenal. The 39-year-old has been a breath of fresh air since succeeding Erik ten Hag, with his personality and approach, coupled with promising early performances, bringing hope back to Old Trafford. Amorim has been touched by his warm welcome but repeatedly urged fans to avoid jumping the gun, having followed a draw at Ipswich with home wins against Bodo/Glimt and Everton. Wednesday’s trip to Arsenal is comfortably his biggest challenge yet and victory would see United move within three points of the Premier League title contenders. Put to Amorim it will be hard to manage expectations if they won in the capital, the head coach said: “I would like to say different things, but I have to say it again: the storm will come. “I don’t know if you use that expression, but we are going to have difficult moments and we will be found out in some games. “And I know that because I’m knowing my players and I know football and I follow football, so I understand the difference between the teams. “We are in the point in that we are putting simple things in the team, without training, and you feel it in this game against Everton, they change a little bit the way they were building up. “They are very good team, and we were with a lot of problems because we cannot change it by calling one thing to the captain. A midweek trip to the capital awaits 🚆 #MUFC || #PL pic.twitter.com/1e6VrILJW3 — Manchester United (@ManUtd) December 3, 2024 “So, we don’t have this training, so let’s focus on each game, on the performance, what we have to improve, trying to win games. And that is the focus. “I know it’s really hard to be a Manchester United coach and say these things in press conferences. We want to win all the time. No matter what. “We are going to try to win, but we know that we are in a different point if you compare to Arsenal. “So, it is what it is and we will try to win it and we go with confidence to win, but we know that we need to play very well to win the next football match.” The trip to Arsenal is the second of nine December matches for United, who are looking to avoid suffering four straight league defeats to the Gunners for the first time. The Red Devils have not won a Premier League match at the Emirates Stadium since 2017, but Amorim knows a thing or two about frustrating Mikel Arteta’s men. Arsenal thrashed Sporting Lisbon 5-1 in the Champions League last week, but in 2022-23 he led the Portuguese side to a Europa League last-16 penalty triumph after a 1-1 draw in London made it 3-3 on aggregate. “Arsenal this year, they play a little bit different,” Amorim said. “They are more fluid. “For example, two years ago when we faced them with Sporting, you knew how to press because you can understand better the structure. “Now it’s more fluid with (Riccardo) Calafiori and (Jurrien) Timber in different sides. One coming inside, the other going outside. Also (Martin) Odegaard changed the team, and you can feel it during this season. “So, you can take something from that game, especially because I know so well the opponent so you can understand the weakness of that team. “But every game is different, so you take something, but you already know that you are going to face a very good team.” This hectic winter schedule means Amorim sidestepped talk of January transfer business ahead of facing Arsenal, although he was more forthcoming on Amad Diallo’s future. The 22-year-old, who put in a man of the match display in Sunday’s 4-0 win against Everton, is out of contract at the end of the season, although the club holds an option to extend by a year. Diallo has repeatedly spoken of his desire to stay at United and it has been reported an agreement is close. Amorim said: “I think he wants to stay, and we want him to stay. So that is clear and we will find a solution.”Analysts at US investment firm Oppenheimer expect much higher for the benchmark US equity indes. In breif: S&P 500 Forecast: Predicted to hit 7,100 by end-2025, driven by sustainable monetary policy, strong economy, and favourable labour markets. Earnings Growth: S&P 500 earnings projected to grow 10% to $275 in 2025 ($250 in 2024), with a forward P/E of 25.8x. Key Sectors: Focus on tech, consumer discretionary, industrials, financials, and communication services; small- and mid-cap stocks likely to rally amid Fed rate cuts. AI as a Growth Driver: AI seen as transformative, improving efficiency and productivity across sectors while addressing global challenges. Market Sentiment: Bull market expected to continue in 2025, supported by sector rebalancing, economic activity, and AI growth potential. Cautionary Note: Economic "utopia" is overstated, but markets rest on a strong foundation. On AI, they say it's a transformative force, analagous to the automobile: "This technology could drive efficiency and productivity improvements across all sectors and contribute to solving some of the world's challenges" When your candlestick charts meet the automobile.

NEW YORK — The last of the crystal triangles that make up this year's Times Square New Year's Eve ball were installed Friday morning. It's the first time in 10 years that all 2,688 were replaced at once. Singer Pitbull attends the Times Square New Year's Eve Ball Crystal Installation on Friday at One Times Square in New York. Rapper Pitbull and inventor Joy Mangano were among those on hand to help the organizers of the celebration put the final pieces in place atop One Times Square, the skyscraper from which the 11,875-pound geodesic sphere drops to mark the new year. Singer Pitbull, left, and Joy Mangano, right, founder of CleanBoss, install a crystal Friday during the Times Square New Year's Eve Ball Crystal Installation at One Times Square in New York. A New Year's Eve ball was first dropped in Times Square in 1907. Built by a young immigrant metalworker named Jacob Starr, the 700-pound, 5-foot diameter ball was made of iron and wood and featured 100 25-watt lightbulbs. Six newer versions of the ball were featured in the century-plus since that first celebration. Times Square New Year's Eve Ball is displayed Friday at One Times Square in New York. The only years no ball drop occurred were 1942 and 1943, when the city instituted a nightly "dimout" during World War II to protect itself from attacks. Crowds instead celebrated the new year with a moment of silence followed by chimes rung from the base of One Times Square. As the new year approaches, many people begin thinking about their resolutions—typically focusing on physical health, saving money, or spending more time with family. One area that often gets overlooked is mental health. The pressure to "get fit" or "eat better" is well-known, but taking care of mental well-being is just as important as improving physical health, especially since mental health impacts every aspect of life. At first glance, mental health goals can seem intangible and subjective, but there are scientifically-proven ways to set achievable, measurable, and personalized mental wellness goals that will help anyone thrive in 2025. Vivian Chung Easton, a mental health therapist at Blueprint , a company focused on building AI-powered tools to help therapists, shares recommendations for setting mental health resolutions. One of the most important mental wellness goals for 2025 is to prioritize self-compassion and resilience. In a culture that often celebrates hustle and perfection, it's easy to push yourself too hard, setting unrealistic expectations that only add to stress and anxiety. But research shows that self-compassion and resilience are critical factors in coping with stress and maintaining long-term mental well-being. A 2021 study by Kristin Neff and Christopher Germer highlights that self-compassion—treating yourself with kindness when things don't go as planned—can reduce emotional distress and improve resilience. Instead of criticism for not meeting a goal or making a mistake, practice affirmations or positive self-talk. A simple goal, like being kinder to yourself during setbacks, can help reduce stress and boost mental wellness. A goal can look something like this: Making room for self-compassion this year can be a transformative step toward building resilience and enhancing overall mental health. Social connection is one of the most important factors in mental wellness, yet it's often overlooked in favor of individual self-improvement goals. Physical isolation can lead to loneliness, but social isolation is also strongly linked to mental health challenges like depression and anxiety, according to a study by Juliannee Holt-Lundstad. Meaningful relationships and community support can improve how satisfied you feel in your life on a day-to-day basis. This year, make it a goal to strengthen and nurture social connections, whether that means reconnecting with old friends, regularly scheduling family time, or joining social groups and clubs—like a book club, gym, or church group. For example, a social wellness goal can look like: Building mental wellness isn't just about managing thoughts and feelings; it's also about fostering a strong support network. Social connections are integral to building emotional resilience. Just as physical fitness is associated with physical health, mindfulness is often associated with mental fitness. However, practicing mindfulness is just as important as going for a run or lifting weights when it comes to mental wellness. Mindfulness-based practices—such as meditation, yoga, or breathing exercises—have been shown to reduce symptoms of anxiety and depression, improve focus, and boost emotional well-being according to research by Stefan Hofman in the Journal of Consulting and Clinical Psychology. Incorporating mindfulness into a routine doesn't have to be time-consuming or difficult. Start small by committing to 5–10 minutes of mindfulness practice a few times a week . Focus on breath, practice guided meditation, or even engage in mindful walking or eating. A simple goal might be: These exercises are called a practice for a reason: doing them consistently and often can strengthen your ability over time. These practices not only reduce stress in the moment but also help to build resilience over time, making it easier to handle future challenges. Whatever New Year's resolution you might have, a large obstacle is setting goals that are too ambitious or unrealistic. Whether it's aiming to exercise every day or cutting out all sugar, overambitious goals can lead to burnout and disappointment when progress isn't immediate. This is especially true for mental health goals, which often require patience and consistency. Using these suggestions for mental health goals, focus on how to personalize them to make them realistic and achievable for your life. Research from the American Psychological Association shows that people are more likely to succeed in their resolutions when they set realistic and incremental goals. Instead of vague, broad goals like "be happier" or "stress less," focus on small, concrete actions that can lead to big changes over time. One effective approach is to use SMART goals—goals that are Specific, Measurable, Achievable, Relevant, and Time-bound. For example: These specific, measurable actions make it easier to track progress and feel a sense of accomplishment along the way. Plus, they're more realistic and achievable, which increases your chances of success. It happens every year—gyms always seem to empty out before spring starts. One of the challenges of New Year's resolutions is that many people abandon their goals as early as January. However, mental health goals require ongoing attention and flexibility. Unlike weight loss or fitness goals, mental wellness is a journey, not an endpoint. Regularly tracking progress is essential. By setting aside time to evaluate personal progress, it's easier to adjust your goals and make necessary changes to keep things on track. Research shows that regular goal check-ins increase the likelihood of long-term success. Consider setting quarterly check-ins with yourself to assess your mental health goals: If you're not meeting your targets, adjust them to make them more realistic. Mental health progress doesn't always follow a straight line, so it's important to be flexible and forgiving with yourself. The new year is inherently a time of change, and that can be a helpful mindset in seeing new potential for growth and taking action. As you set your resolutions for 2025, don't forget to prioritize mental wellness. By focusing on achievable, realistic goals—you're setting yourself up for a healthier, more fulfilling year. Mental health is just as important as physical health, and nurturing it can help to reach other goals more effectively. Even if, in a month or two, you feel like you're falling behind—mental health goals can and should be flexible and adaptable. You can always adjust your approach if things aren't serving you, and check in with yourself regularly to stay on track. Goals are personal, and you're always in control. Here's to a year of growth, balance, and emotional well-being in 2025. This stor y was produced by Blueprint and reviewed and distributed by Stacker. Photo Credit: Alberto Menendez Cervero / Shutterstock As anyone who’s ever started a business knows, getting one off the ground is not for the faint of heart. Entrepreneurs face numerous challenges in the early years, from solidifying business plans to navigating the complexities of hiring employees and acquiring licenses and insurance. These hurdles often determine the fate of a startup, making the journey from an idea to a successful enterprise both difficult and uncertain. Each year, millions of Americans file new business applications , but only a fraction of these ventures transition to hiring employees. Among those that do, surviving the critical first few years can still be an uphill battle. However, survival rates differ significantly by location, influenced by a variety of factors such as economic conditions, state policies, and industry-specific demand. The good news is that businesses that weather the initial hurdles see a much greater likelihood of long-term success. This analysis explores the states where new businesses are most likely to survive their earliest years based on the latest data from the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS). The findings reveal important insights into how location and time impact the chances of business success. The chances of staying in business increase dramatically after the first few years Source: Simply Business analysis of U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics data | Image Credit: Simply Business One of the most significant challenges for new business owners is simply staying in operation. The risk of failure is highest during the first year, but it diminishes considerably over time. For those businesses that survive the initial hurdles, the likelihood of long-term success grows each year. According to recent BLS data, only about 79% of businesses survive their first year, making it the most difficult period for startups. However, for businesses that survive their first year, roughly 85% make it to the next. By the fifth year, 91% of businesses manage to continue operations, and for those that reach the 10-year mark, an impressive 93% make it through to another year. These figures underscore the importance of persistence and adaptability, especially during the critical early years when the risk of failure is highest. They also highlight that while starting a business is undeniably challenging, those who endure the startup years enjoy far better odds moving forward. Washington & California lead the country in new business survival rates Source: Simply Business analysis of U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics data | Image Credit: Simply Business New business success varies widely across the United States, with some states providing a more favorable environment for startups to thrive. Based on survival rates for the first three years of operation, Washington and California stand out as the nation’s leading states. Washington claims the top spot, with businesses in the state enjoying an 86.4% chance of surviving their first year, 89.3% in their second year, and an impressive 91.8% in their third year. These figures highlight Washington's robust support for young businesses, likely fueled by its thriving tech ecosystem and a generally favorable economic climate. California ranks second, with survival rates of 86.0% in the first year, 89.8% in the second, and 91.4% in the third. Despite challenges such as high costs of living and regulatory complexities, California’s strong economy, innovation hubs, and access to venture capital contribute to its high ranking. Outside of the West Coast, West Virginia —whose economy is deeply rooted in energy production, natural resources, and manufacturing—ranks third, boasting the highest third-year survival rates at 91.9%. North Carolina —a major banking center and home of the Research Triangle—follows closely with similar numbers. At the opposite end of the spectrum, Minnesota businesses face the toughest challenges in their early years, with only 72.3% surviving their first year and 80.2% their second. These regional differences highlight the importance of local economic conditions in shaping a startup's odds of success. For entrepreneurs planning their next move, this analysis offers insight into where businesses are thriving and where challenges are more pronounced. Factors like industry presence, regulatory environments, and access to resources can create opportunities—or hurdles—that significantly affect survival rates in the critical early years. Choosing the right location isn’t just about personal preference; it can mean the difference between failure and success. This analysis was conducted by Simply Business —an online insurance marketplace for small businesses—using 2024 data from the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics. For complete results, see the original post: States Where New Businesses Are Most Likely to Succeed . Photo Credit: Alberto Menendez Cervero / Shutterstock The data in this report comes from the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics’ Business Employment Dynamics . To determine the states where new businesses are most likely to succeed, researchers at Simply Business developed a business survival index. This index is based on a weighted average of the most recent survival rates for private-sector establishments during their first, second, and third years of operation, as of March 2024. The survival rates were calculated using sequential benchmarks. The first-year survival rate is the percentage of businesses still active one year after opening. The second-year rate is the percentage of those first-year survivors that remained operational for another year. Similarly, the third-year rate is the percentage of second-year survivors that continued into the following year. The data focuses exclusively on private-sector businesses with at least one employee. For complete results, see States Where New Businesses Are Most Likely to Succeed on Simply Business. Stay up-to-date on what's happening Receive the latest in local entertainment news in your inbox weekly!None

Valladolid loses again and Getafe ends winless run in La LigaPreview: Heidenheim vs. Stuttgart - prediction, team news, lineupsNEW YORK (AP) — Free agent pitchers Luis Gabriel Moreno and Alejandro Crisostomo were suspended for 80 games each by Major League Baseball on Friday following positive tests for performance-enhancing substances under the minor league drug program. Moreno tested positive for Nandrolone, and Crisostomo tested positive for Boldenone and Nandrolone, the commissioner’s office said. A 26-year-old right-hander, Moreno was released by the New York Mets’ Class A Brooklyn Cyclones on Tuesday. He was 5-1 with a 5.33 ERA in 12 relief appearances this season for Brooklyn after spending 2016-23 in the San Francisco Giants organization. Crisostomo, a 24-year-old right-hander, was released by Minnesota on Aug. 24 after going 0-1 with a 7.13 ERA this year with the Florida Complex League Twins. He signed with Boston in 2017, spent 2018 in the Dominican Summer League with the Red Sox, then signed with Minnesota and spent 2023 with the Twins DSL team. Nineteen players have been suspended this year for positive drug tests, including eight under the minor league program and nine under the new program for minor league players assigned outside the United States and Canada. Two players have been suspended this year under the major league drug program. , a 22-year-old infielder who is the Cincinnati Reds’ top prospect, missed the first 80 games following a positive test for boldenone. Toronto Blue Jays infielder was suspended for 80 games on June 23 following a positive test for the performance-enhancing drug clomiphene, an announcement made . ___ AP MLB:

Middle East latest: Syrians celebrate Assad's fall as US seeks a peaceful political transition

Timeline: Jimmy Carter, 1924-2024NoneLuke Doty confirms it: He’ll be a Gamecock for one last season in 2025

Syria's De Facto Leader Wants To Maintain 'Respectful' Ties With Iran, RussiaTop DEI official's word salad meltdown when asked if she supports legalized drug dealing By JOE HUTCHISON FOR DAILYMAIL.COM Published: 21:53 GMT, 13 December 2024 | Updated: 22:00 GMT, 13 December 2024 e-mail 6 shares 14 View comments Canada 's top DEI official struggled to answer a simple question about whether she supports legalizing drug dealing. Kamal Khera, Minister of Diversity, Inclusion & Persons with Disabilities, was being grilled by Conservative MP Jamil Jivani over the current liberal governments policies. Jivani had been quizzing the official over the countries Black Justice Strategy, a document to help them tackle anti-black racism in the justice system. One of the suggestions put forward was the decriminalization of the possession of a 30-day supply of drugs of hard drugs. After frequently asking Khera if she supported that policy, she refused to give a straight answer. Jivani continues: 'Your government calls this history making and a milestone for black people in this country. 'I think it's fair for black people to look at it, and say is this what you want intend to do to our communities. 'Do you intend to decriminalize a 30 day supply of drugs in the name of diversity, equity and inclusion. Why is this such a difficult question to answer?' Kamal Khera, Minister of Diversity, Inclusion & Persons with Disabilites, seen here, was being grilled by Conservative MP Jamil Jivani Jivani had been quizzing the official over the countries Black Justice Strategy, a document to help them tackle anti-black racism in the justice system Amazingly, Khera responds: ' Mr. Chair, clearly the member does not understand what diversity, inclusion and equity actually means.' Jivani quickly goes on the offense and quotes an EDI expert who said in a statement that EDI programs had made anti-Semitism worse in the country. He continues: 'Who deserves equity and inclusion in your mind?' She gives a stock response, saying: 'My goal is to ensure we are creating equal opportunities for every single person in this country. 'That takes fundamental changes to our institution to do that work, you have to be deliberate about that change.' Jivani continues to try and interrupt her comments, saying: 'You can keep trying to filibuster if you like.' After the chair of the panel interrupts, Jivani is allowed to continue with his questioning. He adds: 'So when a university student from our country says that diversity, equity and inclusion is disadvantaging her community, you response to that is "well I'm just going to keep making these blanket fluff statements?" Canadian Prime Minister Justin Trudeau attends a fireside chat with the Halifax Chamber of Commerce in Halifax Monday Dec. 9, 2024 The Drug User Liberation Front hand out clean, tested doses of drugs at a demonstration demanding the legalization and regulation of safe alternatives to the toxic street drug supply in Vancouver, British Columbia, Canada April 14, 2022 'She's asking you clearly, how do you decide who deserves equity and who deserves inclusion? Why are there Canadians who feel excluded by your DEI framework.' Clearly rattled, she then repeats a similar statement that she delivered at the start of their exchange, saying: 'The honorable member does not really understand. 'He does not understand that there are systems in place, that anti-black racism, systemic racism is a real thing.' He shared the video of their interaction to his X page, saying: 'The top DEI official in Canada shows exactly what the DEI industry is all about. Superficial, empty, hollow virtue signaling.' Since he shared the video he has been inundated with comments from people attacking Khera over her word salad. One person commented: 'Well done Jamil, she showed her colors and where she stands in pushing division politics under the guise of compassion.' Another added: 'Please tell me when Conservatives take over, all these DEI Ministries and programs will be removed and all those working in them will be fired.' Changes around drug policy have been rolled out across the country in the last few years, following a rise in opioid deaths since the pandemic. In 2022, British Columbia passed a law decriminalizing the small-scale possession of certain drugs including cocaine and MDMA until 2025. They hoped that the policy change would help reduce overdose deaths by easing a fear of arrest by those who need help. Canada Share or comment on this article: Top DEI official's word salad meltdown when asked if she supports legalized drug dealing e-mail 6 shares Add comment

5️⃣ things we learned from Wednesday's eye-opening UCL actionPresident-elect Donald Trump’s lawyers urge judge to toss his hush money conviction

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NEW YORK — The last of the crystal triangles that make up this year's Times Square New Year's Eve ball were installed Friday morning. It's the first time in 10 years that all 2,688 were replaced at once. Singer Pitbull attends the Times Square New Year's Eve Ball Crystal Installation on Friday at One Times Square in New York. Yuki Iwamura, Associated Press Rapper Pitbull and inventor Joy Mangano were among those on hand to help the organizers of the celebration put the final pieces in place atop One Times Square, the skyscraper from which the 11,875-pound geodesic sphere drops to mark the new year. Singer Pitbull, left, and Joy Mangano, right, founder of CleanBoss, install a crystal Friday during the Times Square New Year's Eve Ball Crystal Installation at One Times Square in New York. Yuki Iwamura, Associated Press A New Year's Eve ball was first dropped in Times Square in 1907. Built by a young immigrant metalworker named Jacob Starr, the 700-pound, 5-foot diameter ball was made of iron and wood and featured 100 25-watt lightbulbs. People are also reading... Six newer versions of the ball were featured in the century-plus since that first celebration. Times Square New Year's Eve Ball is displayed Friday at One Times Square in New York. Yuki Iwamura, Associated Press The only years no ball drop occurred were 1942 and 1943, when the city instituted a nightly "dimout" during World War II to protect itself from attacks. Crowds instead celebrated the new year with a moment of silence followed by chimes rung from the base of One Times Square. How to set your 2025 mental health new year's resolutions How to set your 2025 mental health new year's resolutions As the new year approaches, many people begin thinking about their resolutions—typically focusing on physical health, saving money, or spending more time with family. One area that often gets overlooked is mental health. The pressure to "get fit" or "eat better" is well-known, but taking care of mental well-being is just as important as improving physical health, especially since mental health impacts every aspect of life. At first glance, mental health goals can seem intangible and subjective, but there are scientifically-proven ways to set achievable, measurable, and personalized mental wellness goals that will help anyone thrive in 2025. Vivian Chung Easton, a mental health therapist at Blueprint , a company focused on building AI-powered tools to help therapists, shares recommendations for setting mental health resolutions. Prioritize Self-Compassion and Resilience Building One of the most important mental wellness goals for 2025 is to prioritize self-compassion and resilience. In a culture that often celebrates hustle and perfection, it's easy to push yourself too hard, setting unrealistic expectations that only add to stress and anxiety. But research shows that self-compassion and resilience are critical factors in coping with stress and maintaining long-term mental well-being. A 2021 study by Kristin Neff and Christopher Germer highlights that self-compassion—treating yourself with kindness when things don't go as planned—can reduce emotional distress and improve resilience. Instead of criticism for not meeting a goal or making a mistake, practice affirmations or positive self-talk. A simple goal, like being kinder to yourself during setbacks, can help reduce stress and boost mental wellness. A goal can look something like this: Create 10 positive affirmations (like "It's ok, I'm doing the best I can") to use for positive self-talk when you make a mistake. Practice mindfulness for 10 minutes a day, five days a week. Practicing mindfulness doesn't have to just mean meditating, being present in the moment can look different for everyone. The goal of mindfulness is to do one thing and only that thing—not multi-tasking. Whether reading, stretching, or washing the dishes, do what makes sense for your life. Use three coping strategies during stressful situations each week, like grounding exercises, breaking things down into smaller tasks, or rethinking a challenge positively. This can improve your ability to handle different situations with resilience and self-compassion. Making room for self-compassion this year can be a transformative step toward building resilience and enhancing overall mental health. Incorporate Social Connections Into Your Mental Health Goals Social connection is one of the most important factors in mental wellness, yet it's often overlooked in favor of individual self-improvement goals. Physical isolation can lead to loneliness, but social isolation is also strongly linked to mental health challenges like depression and anxiety, according to a study by Juliannee Holt-Lundstad. Meaningful relationships and community support can improve how satisfied you feel in your life on a day-to-day basis. This year, make it a goal to strengthen and nurture social connections, whether that means reconnecting with old friends, regularly scheduling family time, or joining social groups and clubs—like a book club, gym, or church group. For example, a social wellness goal can look like: Reconnect with a friend or family member once a month. Join a support group to build a community of people who understand individual challenges. Attend social events (virtual events count too) to foster a sense of belonging. Building mental wellness isn't just about managing thoughts and feelings; it's also about fostering a strong support network. Social connections are integral to building emotional resilience. Mindfulness and Stress Reduction Techniques as a Foundation Just as physical fitness is associated with physical health, mindfulness is often associated with mental fitness. However, practicing mindfulness is just as important as going for a run or lifting weights when it comes to mental wellness. Mindfulness-based practices—such as meditation, yoga, or breathing exercises—have been shown to reduce symptoms of anxiety and depression, improve focus, and boost emotional well-being according to research by Stefan Hofman in the Journal of Consulting and Clinical Psychology. Incorporating mindfulness into a routine doesn't have to be time-consuming or difficult. Start small by committing to 5–10 minutes of mindfulness practice a few times a week . Focus on breath, practice guided meditation, or even engage in mindful walking or eating. A simple goal might be: Meditate for five minutes daily . Practice mindful eating by turning off electronic devices, like your phone, TV, and computer when eating. These exercises are called a practice for a reason: doing them consistently and often can strengthen your ability over time. These practices not only reduce stress in the moment but also help to build resilience over time, making it easier to handle future challenges. Set Realistic and Achievable SMART Goals Whatever New Year's resolution you might have, a large obstacle is setting goals that are too ambitious or unrealistic. Whether it's aiming to exercise every day or cutting out all sugar, overambitious goals can lead to burnout and disappointment when progress isn't immediate. This is especially true for mental health goals, which often require patience and consistency. Using these suggestions for mental health goals, focus on how to personalize them to make them realistic and achievable for your life. Research from the American Psychological Association shows that people are more likely to succeed in their resolutions when they set realistic and incremental goals. Instead of vague, broad goals like "be happier" or "stress less," focus on small, concrete actions that can lead to big changes over time. One effective approach is to use SMART goals—goals that are Specific, Measurable, Achievable, Relevant, and Time-bound. For example: Instead of resolving to "be happier," aim to journal for 10 minutes every morning, identifying one thing that brought you joy that day . Instead of "reduce stress," try committing to eating one meal without your electronic devices . Rather than "improve mental health," set a goal to find activities that lead to better mental health for you—like hiking or meeting a friend for coffee—and do it once a month. These specific, measurable actions make it easier to track progress and feel a sense of accomplishment along the way. Plus, they're more realistic and achievable, which increases your chances of success. Monitor Progress and Adjust Mental Health Goals Throughout the Year It happens every year—gyms always seem to empty out before spring starts. One of the challenges of New Year's resolutions is that many people abandon their goals as early as January. However, mental health goals require ongoing attention and flexibility. Unlike weight loss or fitness goals, mental wellness is a journey, not an endpoint. Regularly tracking progress is essential. By setting aside time to evaluate personal progress, it's easier to adjust your goals and make necessary changes to keep things on track. Research shows that regular goal check-ins increase the likelihood of long-term success. Consider setting quarterly check-ins with yourself to assess your mental health goals: Have you been practicing mindfulness regularly? Are you feeling more self-compassionate during setbacks? Are you meeting your social connection goals? If you're not meeting your targets, adjust them to make them more realistic. Mental health progress doesn't always follow a straight line, so it's important to be flexible and forgiving with yourself. Your Resolutions are Personal and Evolving The new year is inherently a time of change, and that can be a helpful mindset in seeing new potential for growth and taking action. As you set your resolutions for 2025, don't forget to prioritize mental wellness. By focusing on achievable, realistic goals—you're setting yourself up for a healthier, more fulfilling year. Mental health is just as important as physical health, and nurturing it can help to reach other goals more effectively. Even if, in a month or two, you feel like you're falling behind—mental health goals can and should be flexible and adaptable. You can always adjust your approach if things aren't serving you, and check in with yourself regularly to stay on track. Goals are personal, and you're always in control. Here's to a year of growth, balance, and emotional well-being in 2025. This stor y was produced by Blueprint and reviewed and distributed by Stacker. PeopleImages.com - Yuri A // Shutterstock States Where New Businesses Are Most Likely to Succeed States Where New Businesses Are Most Likely to Succeed Photo Credit: Alberto Menendez Cervero / Shutterstock As anyone who’s ever started a business knows, getting one off the ground is not for the faint of heart. Entrepreneurs face numerous challenges in the early years, from solidifying business plans to navigating the complexities of hiring employees and acquiring licenses and insurance. These hurdles often determine the fate of a startup, making the journey from an idea to a successful enterprise both difficult and uncertain. Each year, millions of Americans file new business applications , but only a fraction of these ventures transition to hiring employees. Among those that do, surviving the critical first few years can still be an uphill battle. However, survival rates differ significantly by location, influenced by a variety of factors such as economic conditions, state policies, and industry-specific demand. The good news is that businesses that weather the initial hurdles see a much greater likelihood of long-term success. This analysis explores the states where new businesses are most likely to survive their earliest years based on the latest data from the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS). The findings reveal important insights into how location and time impact the chances of business success. Alberto Menendez Cervero How Likely Are New Businesses to Remain Open? The chances of staying in business increase dramatically after the first few years Source: Simply Business analysis of U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics data | Image Credit: Simply Business One of the most significant challenges for new business owners is simply staying in operation. The risk of failure is highest during the first year, but it diminishes considerably over time. For those businesses that survive the initial hurdles, the likelihood of long-term success grows each year. According to recent BLS data, only about 79% of businesses survive their first year, making it the most difficult period for startups. However, for businesses that survive their first year, roughly 85% make it to the next. By the fifth year, 91% of businesses manage to continue operations, and for those that reach the 10-year mark, an impressive 93% make it through to another year. These figures underscore the importance of persistence and adaptability, especially during the critical early years when the risk of failure is highest. They also highlight that while starting a business is undeniably challenging, those who endure the startup years enjoy far better odds moving forward. Where New Businesses Are Most Likely to Succeed Washington & California lead the country in new business survival rates Source: Simply Business analysis of U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics data | Image Credit: Simply Business New business success varies widely across the United States, with some states providing a more favorable environment for startups to thrive. Based on survival rates for the first three years of operation, Washington and California stand out as the nation’s leading states. Washington claims the top spot, with businesses in the state enjoying an 86.4% chance of surviving their first year, 89.3% in their second year, and an impressive 91.8% in their third year. These figures highlight Washington's robust support for young businesses, likely fueled by its thriving tech ecosystem and a generally favorable economic climate. California ranks second, with survival rates of 86.0% in the first year, 89.8% in the second, and 91.4% in the third. Despite challenges such as high costs of living and regulatory complexities, California’s strong economy, innovation hubs, and access to venture capital contribute to its high ranking. Outside of the West Coast, West Virginia —whose economy is deeply rooted in energy production, natural resources, and manufacturing—ranks third, boasting the highest third-year survival rates at 91.9%. North Carolina —a major banking center and home of the Research Triangle—follows closely with similar numbers. At the opposite end of the spectrum, Minnesota businesses face the toughest challenges in their early years, with only 72.3% surviving their first year and 80.2% their second. These regional differences highlight the importance of local economic conditions in shaping a startup's odds of success. For entrepreneurs planning their next move, this analysis offers insight into where businesses are thriving and where challenges are more pronounced. Factors like industry presence, regulatory environments, and access to resources can create opportunities—or hurdles—that significantly affect survival rates in the critical early years. Choosing the right location isn’t just about personal preference; it can mean the difference between failure and success. This analysis was conducted by Simply Business —an online insurance marketplace for small businesses—using 2024 data from the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics. For complete results, see the original post: States Where New Businesses Are Most Likely to Succeed . Methodology Photo Credit: Alberto Menendez Cervero / Shutterstock The data in this report comes from the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics’ Business Employment Dynamics . To determine the states where new businesses are most likely to succeed, researchers at Simply Business developed a business survival index. This index is based on a weighted average of the most recent survival rates for private-sector establishments during their first, second, and third years of operation, as of March 2024. The survival rates were calculated using sequential benchmarks. The first-year survival rate is the percentage of businesses still active one year after opening. The second-year rate is the percentage of those first-year survivors that remained operational for another year. Similarly, the third-year rate is the percentage of second-year survivors that continued into the following year. The data focuses exclusively on private-sector businesses with at least one employee. For complete results, see States Where New Businesses Are Most Likely to Succeed on Simply Business. Alberto Menendez Cervero Stay up-to-date on what's happening