A 7-year-old rivalry between tech leaders Elon Musk and Sam Altman over who should run OpenAI and prevent an artificial intelligence "dictatorship" is now heading to a federal judge as Musk seeks to halt the ChatGPT maker's ongoing shift into a for-profit company. Musk, an early OpenAI investor and board member, sued the artificial intelligence company earlier this year alleging it had betrayed its founding aims as a nonprofit research lab benefiting the public good rather than pursuing profits. Musk has since escalated the dispute, adding new claims and asking for a court order that would stop OpenAI’s plans to convert itself into a for-profit business more fully. The world's richest man, whose companies include Tesla, SpaceX and social media platform X, last year started his own rival AI company, xAI. Musk says it faces unfair competition from OpenAI and its close business partner Microsoft, which has supplied the huge computing resources needed to build AI systems such as ChatGPT. “OpenAI and Microsoft together exploiting Musk’s donations so they can build a for-profit monopoly, one now specifically targeting xAI, is just too much,” says Musk's filing that alleges the companies are violating the terms of Musk’s foundational contributions to the charity. OpenAI is filing a response Friday opposing Musk’s requested order, saying it would cripple OpenAI’s business and mission to the advantage of Musk and his own AI company. A hearing is set for January before U.S. District Judge Yvonne Gonzalez Rogers in Oakland. At the heart of the dispute is a 2017 internal power struggle at the fledgling startup that led to Altman becoming OpenAI's CEO. Musk also wanted the job, according to emails revealed as part of the court case, but grew frustrated after two other OpenAI co-founders said he would hold too much power as a major shareholder and chief executive if the startup succeeded in its goal to achieve better-than-human AI known as artificial general intelligence , or AGI. Musk has long voiced concerns about how advanced forms of AI could threaten humanity. “The current structure provides you with a path where you end up with unilateral absolute control over the AGI," said a 2017 email to Musk from co-founders Ilya Sutskever and Greg Brockman. “You stated that you don't want to control the final AGI, but during this negotiation, you've shown to us that absolute control is extremely important to you.” In the same email, titled “Honest Thoughts,” Sutskever and Brockman also voiced concerns about Altman's desire to be CEO and whether he was motivated by “political goals.” Altman eventually succeeded in becoming CEO, and has remained so except for a period last year when he was fired and then reinstated days later after the board that ousted him was replaced. OpenAI published the messages Friday in a blog post meant to show its side of the story, particularly Musk's early support for the idea of making OpenAI a for-profit business so it could raise money for the hardware and computer power that AI needs. It was Musk, through his wealth manager Jared Birchall, who first registered “Open Artificial Technologies Technologies, Inc.”, a public benefit corporation, in September 2017. Then came the “Honest Thoughts” email that Musk described as the “final straw.” “Either go do something on your own or continue with OpenAI as a nonprofit,” Musk wrote back. OpenAI said Musk later proposed merging the startup into Tesla before resigning as the co-chair of OpenAI's board in early 2018. Musk didn't immediately respond to emailed requests for comment sent to his companies Friday. Asked about his frayed relationship with Musk at a New York Times conference last week, Altman said he felt “tremendously sad” but also characterized Musk’s legal fight as one about business competition. “He’s a competitor and we’re doing well,” Altman said. He also said at the conference that he is “not that worried” about the Tesla CEO’s influence with President-elect Donald Trump. OpenAI said Friday that Altman plans to make a $1 million personal donation to Trump’s inauguration fund, joining a number of tech companies and executives who are working to improve their relationships with the incoming administration. —————————— The Associated Press and OpenAI have a licensing and technology agreement allowing OpenAI access to part of the AP’s text archives.Doug Ford dresses up like Santa to grant wishes in Christmas video(The Conversation is an independent and nonprofit source of news, analysis and commentary from academic experts.) Sara Harmouch , American University (THE CONVERSATION) The fall of President Bashar al-Assad has left a critical question: After a half-century of brutal dynastic rule has come to an end, who speaks for Syrians now? One group staking a major claim for that role is Hayat Tahrir al-Sham , which, under the leadership of Abu Mohammad al-Golani, spearheaded the opposition advance that toppled Assad. But what does the group stand for? And who is al-Golani? The Conversation turned to Sara Harmouch , an expert on Islamist militant groups, for answers. What is Hayat Tahrir al-Sham? Hayat Tahrir al-Sham has its roots in the early stages of the Syrian civil war, which began in 2011 as a popular uprising against the autocratic government of Assad. The group originated as an offshoot of the Nusra Front, the official al-Qaida affiliate in Syria. Hayat Tahrir al-Sham was initially recognized for its combat effectiveness and its commitment to global jihadist ideology, or the establishment of strict Islamic rule across the Muslim world. In a shift in 2016, the Nusra Front publicly cut ties with al-Qaida and adopted the new name Jabhat Fateh al-Sham, which means “Front for the Conquest of the Levant.” The following year, it merged with several other factions in the Syrian war to become Hayat Tahrir al-Sham, or the “Organization for the Liberation of the Levant.” This rebranding aimed to move away from al-Qaida’s global jihadist agenda, which had limited the group’s appeal within Syria. It allowed Hayat Tahrir al-Sham to focus on issues specific to Syrians, such as local governance, economic issues and humanitarian aid. Despite these changes, Hayat Tahrir al-Sham’s core ideology continues to be rooted in jihadism, with the primary objective of overthrowing the Assad government and establishing Islamic rule in Syria. Who is al-Golani? How central is he to the group’s success? Abu Mohammed al-Golani was born Ahmed al-Sharaa in 1982 in Saudi Arabia. Al-Golani spent his early years in Damascus, Syria, after his family returned from Saudi Arabia in 1989. His jihadist career began in Iraq, where he joined fighters aligned with al-Qaida after the 2003 U.S.-led invasion . In 2011, under the direction of Iraqi militant and then-al-Qaida in Iraq leader Abu Bakr al-Baghdadi, al-Golani was tasked with establishing the Nusra Front in Syria. The group quickly became a formidable force within the Syrian civil war. It was under al-Golani’s leadership that Hayat Tahrir al-Sham sought to portray itself as pragmatic, less focused on global jihad and more on governance issues in the region of Idlib, Syria’s largest rebel stronghold. This shift in strategy forms part of al-Golani’s effort to transform his national and global image from that of a jihadist leader to a more politically viable figure in Syrian politics. Al-Golani’s shift toward a more pragmatic approach, particularly post-2017, has been crucial in helping Hayat Tahrir al-Sham control territories and assert itself as a regional governing force. His recent moves, like adopting a more moderate persona and engaging in traditional public service, reflect al-Golani’s central role in the military and the political evolution of Hayat Tahrir al-Sham – underpinning the group’s hold on power and its efforts at gaining legitimacy both locally and internationally. How did the group rise to become a major force in Syria? To keep power over the territories it controlled, Hayat Tahrir al-Sham employed a mix of strategies that includes establishing governance systems that could provide stability and services while legitimizing their control in the eyes of local populations. Aiming to expand and take more territory, the group’s leaders concluded that it needed to win over the international community to minimize international opposition and effectively work with the broader Syrian revolutionary movement. This involved working with other actors in Syria, aiming to present a united front that could be more palatable to international observers and potential allies. To do that locally, Hayat Tahrir al-Sham brought many groups within Syria under its control. Regionally and internationally, it reshaped its image through public relations campaigns, such as engaging in social services. Since 2017, Hayat Tahrir al-Sham has been the prevailing force in Idlib , which, after government forces retook control of Aleppo in December 2016, emerged as the last major bastion for various rebel groups. Over the years, the group has solidified its control in the region by functioning as a quasi-governmental entity , providing civil services and overseeing local affairs – such as controlling highways and collecting duties on commercial trucking – despite reports of human rights abuses. In recent years, Hayat Tahrir al-Sham’s propaganda has emphasized protecting Syrian territory and its people from the Assad government. This has helped the group enhance its position among local communities and other rebel groups. In an effort to further burnish its image, Hayat Tahrir al-Sham ramped up its public relations efforts, both at home and abroad. For example, it has engaged with international media and humanitarian organizations to negotiate – and film – aid deliveries to the areas it governs. Doing so helped Hayat Tahrir al-Sham gain some local support , positioning itself as a defender of Sunni Muslim interests. Meanwhile, Hayat Tahrir al-Sham bolstered its military capabilities by establishing a military academy, reorganizing its units into a more conventional military structure and creating specialized forces adept at executing coordinated and strategic attacks. The recent advance appears to be proof that this strategy has paid off. What does the US think of the group and al-Golani? The U.S. has long listed al-Golani as a Specially Designated Global Terrorist and the Nusra Front as a Foreign Terrorist Organization. In May 2018, the U.S. State Department expanded this designation to include Hayat Tahrir al-Sham. As a result of these designations, the group and its members face legal restrictions, travel bans, asset freezes and banking restrictions. Additionally, the State Department’s Rewards for Justice program is offering up to US$10 million for information on al-Golani. However, news has been circulating that the U.S. is considering removing the $10 million bounty on the Hayat Tahrir al-Sham leader, while the United Kingdom is thinking of removing the group from its terror list. What happens if al-Golani emerges as a post-Assad leader? First, we should note that these are very early days, and it remains unclear what Syria will look like post-Assad. But based on my years researching Islamic history and Hayat Tahrir al-Sham, I’m willing to venture a few educated guesses. Historically, Islamic empires have used distinct governance frameworks to drive their expansion and administration, which might inform Hayat Tahrir al-Sham’s approach to mirroring these successful strategies. First, I think al-Golani is likely to strive for authentic religious leadership, positioning himself as a leader whose personal piety and adherence to Islamic principles align with the religious sentiments of the population at large. This could be complemented by Hayat Tahrir al-Sham emphasizing the role of Sunni Islam in Syria’s state functions and integrating religious legal practices into the nation’s laws. Just as it has established on a localized scale, effective administration might become a cornerstone of Hayat Tahrir al-Sham governance. In Idlib, for example, the group established systems for taxation and community engagement. This is essential for building trust, especially among previously marginalized groups. Additionally, by allowing some autonomy for regions within Syria, Hayat Tahrir al-Sham could mitigate the risk of unrest, balancing strict Islamic law enforcement with Syria’s cultural and ethnic diversity. Overall, should Hayat Tahrir al-Sham under al-Golani try to steer the formation of Syria’s new government, we might expect a governance approach that aims for a blend of traditional Islamic governance and modern statecraft, striving to stabilize and unify the diverse and war-torn country. However, the group’s controversial status and history of militant activities could pose significant challenges in gaining widespread international recognition and internal support. Sections of this article were first published in an article for The Conversation on Dec. 2, 2024. This article is republished from The Conversation under a Creative Commons license. Read the original article here: https://theconversation.com/abu-mohammed-al-golani-may-become-the-face-of-post-assad-syria-but-who-is-he-and-why-does-he-have-10m-us-bounty-on-his-head-245612 .1-777 。

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‘Not good for tax policy’: Economists question rationale of Ottawa’s new stimulus packageTweet Facebook Mail If there was any doubt a federal election is fast approaching, Anthony Albanese provided a stark reminder in one of his last major speeches of the year . Labor-red billboards, a crowd of supporters, and a childcare policy announcement worth roughly $1.5 billion – this was a campaign event without an election date. That could be as far as five months away, but federal politicians are clearly readying themselves. EXPLAINED: When will Australia's next federal election be held?  The next federal is fast approaching. (Nine) Albanese announced candidates for two Tasmanian seats in early November, before a flurry of Senate activity on the final sitting day of the year that saw a number of key government policies, including the social media ban for under-16s, Reserve Bank reforms, and two housing and three migration bills, become law. The prime minister lauded that as his government doing more to help out Australian families, but those families haven't been returning the love. Opinion polls have unanimously shown a drop in support for Albanese and Labor this year, raising the prospect that it could become the first government in almost 100 years to be voted out after a single term. Opposition Leader Peter Dutton has said it's possible he wins the next election. READ MORE: Liberal frontbencher Paul Fletcher to retire from politics  Anthony Albanese was in campaign mode during one of his last major speeches of the year. (William Davis) Like Albanese, he's also been gearing up for the election with a flurry of media appearances in December, attacking the government over antisemitism and cost-of-living pressures. The latter topic has seen him take a leaf out of the Trump playbook. "Part of the problem in the United States was that people didn't believe that the government was listening to them when they couldn't pay their bills... they just felt a real disconnect, seems to be some of the analysis," Dutton said after the US election . "To be honest, there's an eerie parallel with what's happening here in Australia, in that sense." Sure enough, he's been asking the same questions of voters that Trump did of Americans before storming back to the White House. "Ask yourself this question; are you better off today than you were two and a half years ago?" Dutton said in late December. "Heaven knows how bad it will be in three years' time." Dutton, however, has maintained his Coalition is the underdog for next year's vote. READ MORE: Shorten reflects on failures, sausage regret in valedictory speech  Opinion polls have been grim reading as of late for the government. (Alex Ellinghausen) Part of that comes down to simple electoral maths. The opposition would need to gain 21 seats to govern in its own right – history says parties just don't make up that much ground one term after being voted out. Dutton has also been extremely effective in campaigning against the government's policies, but has offered few of his own. There's a commitment to reduce migration beyond the government's targets, but an exact number won't come until after the election. There had been a suggestion that stage 3 tax cuts would be reworked, but that was walked back in November. READ MORE: What apps will and won't be covered by social media ban  Peter Dutton says he can win the next election, but maintains he's the underdog. (Alex Ellinghausen/SMH) Costings for the much-publicised nuclear power push weren't released until a fortnight before Christmas (after several false starts), and have been highly disputed by experts. When other policies are announced, that will give the government a chance to attack the opposition, just as it has over the Coalition's commitment to wind back some of the workplace laws introduced this term. Albanese's unofficial campaign speech was significant not just for the childcare announcement, but for some attack lines he rolled out – just as Dutton has relentlessly criticised the government over the cost of living, the prime minister returned the favour. "Every Australian would have been worse off if Peter Dutton had blocked our tax cuts, cut people's wages, stopped energy bill relief and made it harder and more expensive for people to see a doctor," he said. Expect to hear a lot more of that in the new year, even if the election date remains a mystery. DOWNLOAD THE 9NEWS APP : Stay across all the latest in breaking news, sport, politics and the weather via our news app and get notifications sent straight to your smartphone. Available on the Apple App Store and Google Play .

Peter Dutton says he'll never stand in front of an Aboriginal flag as prime minister

DAMASCUS, Syria — Syria's prime minister said Monday that most cabinet ministers were back at work after rebels overthrew President Bashar Assad , but some state workers failed to return to their jobs, and a United Nations official said the country's public sector had come “to a complete and abrupt halt." Meanwhile, streams of refugees crossed back into Syria from neighboring countries, hoping for a more peaceful future and looking for relatives who disappeared during Assad's brutal rule. There were already signs of the difficulties ahead for the rebel alliance now in control of much of the country. The alliance is led by a former senior al-Qaida militant who severed ties with the extremist group years ago and has promised representative government and religious tolerance. The rebel command said Monday they would not tell women how to dress. “It is strictly forbidden to interfere with women’s dress or impose any request related to their clothing or appearance, including requests for modesty,” the command said in a statement on social media. Nearly two days after rebels entered the capital, some key government services had shut down after state workers ignored calls to go back to their jobs, the U.N. official said, causing issues at airports and borders and slowing the flow of humanitarian aid. Rebel leader Ahmad al-Sharaa, who was long known by his nom de guerre Abu Mohammed al-Golani, also met for the first time with Prime Minister Mohammad Ghazi Jalali, who stayed in Syria when Assad fled. “You will see there are skills" among the rebels, al-Sharaa said in a video shared on a rebel messaging channel. Israel said it carried out airstrikes on suspected chemical weapons sites and long-range rockets to keep them from falling into the hands of extremists. Israel also seized a buffer zone inside Syria after Syrian troops withdrew. In northern Syria, Turkey said allied opposition forces seized the town of Manbij from Kurdish-led forces backed by the United States, a reminder that even after Assad's departure, the country remains split among armed groups that have fought in the past. The Kremlin said Russia has granted political asylum to Assad , a decision made by President Vladimir Putin . Kremlin spokesperson Dmitry Peskov declined to comment on Assad’s specific whereabouts and said Putin did not plan to meet with him. Damascus was quiet Monday, with life slowly returning to normal, though most shops and public institutions were closed. In public squares, some people were still celebrating. Civilian traffic resumed, but there was no public transport. Long lines formed in front of bakeries and other food stores. There was little sign of any security presence though in some areas, small groups of armed men were stationed in the streets. Across swathes of Syria, families are now waiting outside prisons , security offices and courts, hoping for news of loved ones who were imprisoned or who disappeared. Just north of Damascus in the feared Saydnaya military prison, women detainees, some with their children, screamed as rebels broke locks off their cell doors. Amnesty International and other groups say dozens of people were secretly executed every week in Saydnaya, and they estimate that up to 13,000 Syrians were killed between 2011 and 2016. “Don’t be afraid," one rebel said as he ushered women from packed cells. "Bashar Assad has fallen!” In southern Turkey , Mustafa Sultan was among hundreds of Syrian refugees waiting at border crossings to head home. He was searching for his older brother, who was imprisoned under Assad. “I haven’t seen him for 13 years," he said. "I am going to go see whether he’s alive.” Jalali, the prime minister, has sought to project normalcy since Assad fled. “We are working so that the transitional period is quick and smooth,” he told Sky News Arabia TV on Monday, saying the security situation had already improved from the day before. At the court of Justice in Damascus, which was stormed by the rebels to free detainees, Judge Khitam Haddad, an aide to the justice minister in the outgoing government, said Sunday that judges were ready to resume work quickly. “We want to give everyone their rights,” Haddad said outside the courthouse. “We want to build a new Syria and to keep the work, but with new methods.” But a U.N. official said some government services had been paralyzed as worried state employees stayed home. The public sector “has just come to a complete and abrupt halt," said U.N. Resident and Humanitarian Coordinator for Syria Adam Abdelmoula, noting, for example, that an aid flight carrying urgently needed medical supplies had been put on hold after aviation employees abandoned their jobs. “This is a country that has had one government for 53 years and then suddenly all of those who have been demonized by the public media are now in charge in the nation’s capital,” Abdelmoula told The Associated Press. "I think it will take a couple of days and a lot of assurance on the part of the armed groups for these people to return to work again.” Britain and the U.S. are both considering whether to remove the main anti-Assad rebel group from their lists of designated terrorist organizations. Hayat Tahrir al-Sham began as an offshoot of al-Qaida but cut ties with the group years ago and has worked to present a more moderate image. The group's leader, al-Sharaa, “is saying some of the right things about the protection of minorities, about respecting people’s rights,” British Cabinet minister Pat McFadden said, adding that a change would be considered “quite quickly.” But British Prime Minister Keir Starmer, speaking later during a visit to Saudi Arabia, said it was "far too early” to make that decision. In Washington, a Biden administration official noted that HTS will be an “important component” in Syria's future and that the U.S. needs to “engage with them appropriately.” Another administration official said the U.S. remains in a “wait and see” mode on whether to remove the designation. Both officials requested anonymity to discuss the ongoing internal deliberations. State Department spokesman Matthew Miller told reporters that such designations are constantly under review. Even while it is in place, the designation does not bar U.S. officials from speaking with members or leaders of the group, he said. The U.S. also announced it was sending its special envoy for hostage affairs to Beirut to seek information about the whereabouts of Austin Tice, a journalist who vanished in Syria 12 years ago and who President Joe Biden has said is believed to be alive. Israelis welcomed the fall of Assad, who was a key ally of Iran and Lebanon's Hezbollah militant group, while expressing concern over what comes next. Israel says its forces temporarily seized a buffer zone inside Syria dating back to a 1974 agreement after Syrian troops withdrew in the chaos. “The only interest we have is the security of Israel and its citizens," Israeli Foreign Minister Gideon Saar told reporters Monday. Saar did not provide details about the targets, but the British-based Syrian Observatory for Human Rights said they included weapons warehouses, research centers, air defense systems and aircraft squadrons. Israel has carried out hundreds of airstrikes in Syria in recent years, targeting what it says are military sites related to Iran and Hezbollah . Israeli officials rarely comment on individual strikes. Syria agreed to give up its chemical weapons stockpile in 2013, after the government was accused of launching an attack near Damascus that killed hundreds of people . But it is widely believed to have kept some of the weapons and was accused of using them again in subsequent years. Officials in Turkey, which is the main supporter of the Syrian opposition to Assad, say its allies have taken full control of the northern Syrian city of Manbij from a U.S.-supported and Kurdish-led force known as the Syrian Democratic Forces, or SDF. The SDF said a Turkish drone struck in the village of al-Mistriha in eastern Syria, killing 12 civilians, including six children. Turkey views the SDF, which is primarily composed of a Syrian Kurdish militia, as an extension of the banned Kurdistan Workers’ Party, or PKK, which has waged a decades-long insurgency in Turkey. The SDF has also been a key ally of the United States in the war against the Islamic State group. Turkish Foreign Minister Hakan Fidan on Monday warned against allowing Islamic State or Kurdish fighters to take advantage of the situation, saying Turkey will prevent Syria from turning into a “haven for terrorism.” Mroue reported from Beirut and Goldenberg from Tel Aviv, Israel. Associated Press writers Suzan Fraser in Ankara, Turkey, Mehmet Guzel at the Oncupinar border crossing in Turkey, Jamey Keaten in Geneva, and Aamer Madhani and Matthew Lee in Washington contributed to this report. Follow the AP's Syria coverage at https://apnews.com/hub/syria

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Walker & Dunlop Arranges 2nd Largest Sale in San Diego in 2024Hindu organisations have started a signature campaign appealing to the Prime Minister and theMinister for Law and Justiceto fast-track the court hearings in the Kashi Gyanvapi and Mathura Shri Krishna Janmabhoomi disputes. The groups, including the Hindu Janjagruti Sangh, said that the cases are of historical, religious, and social importance and restoration of the Kashi and Mathura shrines are 'of national importance' and 'a pivotal point in the struggle for the existence of Hindus'. Temples hold extraordinary significance in Sanatan Dharma and have played a crucial role in preserving, protecting, and upholding Bharatiya culture and traditions, the letter says.The groups said that there is historical evidence that the Kashi Vishwanath Temple in Varanasi was demolished during the reign of Mughal king Aurangzeb in 1669 and the Gyanvapi mosque constructed on the remains of the temple. A study by the Archaeological Survey of India confirms the existence of a temple beneath the site, the letter says. Similarly, the Shri Krishna Janmabhoomi temple in Mathura was also demolished on the orders of Aurangzeb in 1670, the letter says.The letter further adds that the Kashi and Mathura are as emotionally significant to Hindus as the Ram Mandir and while it took over 75 years for the Ram Mandir case to be resolved in independent India's courts, Hindus hope that such prolonged delays do not occur for Kashi and Mathura. Following the Supreme Court’s verdict handing over the Shri Ram Janmabhoomi to the Hindus, there is a fervent demand among Hindus for the restoration of sacred sites like Kashi and Mathura, which were similarly desecrated during the Mughal invasions, the letter says. The groups have called for fast-track courts similar to the ones established to ensure swift justice in important legal cases. '... similar urgency must be shown for cases concerning the faith of a billion Hindus. These are not ordinary temples but central to the spiritual and cultural lives of Hindus', the letter adds.'It is unfortunate that while the truth regarding Hindu temples is there for all to see, these cases remain unresolved. These sites of historical and religious significance still await justice. Justice delayed is justice denied — therefore, the prolonged delay in delivering judgments on the Kashi and Mathura matters amounts to injustice.'Delays in cases concerning Kashi and Mathura may lead to unrest and erode the common man’s faith in the judiciary, the letter adds.

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The best option to battle Winnipeg’s mosquitoes is to find a new fogging product, city officials say. Read this article for free: Already have an account? To continue reading, please subscribe: * The best option to battle Winnipeg’s mosquitoes is to find a new fogging product, city officials say. Read unlimited articles for free today: Already have an account? The best option to battle Winnipeg’s mosquitoes is to find a new fogging product, city officials say. The city currently fogs adult nuisance mosquitoes with DeltaGard, but has been studying options to replace the fogging agent after the company stopped selling it in Canada in 2023. While the city has stocked enough of the product to cover two to three years of mosquito control, depending on weather, the issue led it to explore other options, a new report notes. “Of all the options presented, the easiest to implement and least costly control method is to find a new adult mosquito control product. Failing this, the recommended course of action would be to invest in improving the larviciding program,” the report notes. While another pesticide company plans to introduce a new adult mosquito control product within five years, which could replace DeltaGard, that hasn’t happened yet, the report adds. In an interview Friday, the city’s superintendent of insect control said it’s difficult to determine how likely the city is to run out of the fogging product years before a replacement is available. “I wouldn’t say it’s a high risk. We are also still trying to work with the supplier (of DeltaGard) to see if they would change their mind (about selling their product in Canada). We’re still looking at other options,” said David Wade. Wade said the possible replacement product, which he did not name, is used in the United States but is not yet regulated for use in Canada. “There is a risk, obviously, of running out and not having another option available, so that’s why we want to bring this information forward,” he said. Wade noted the city could also stretch out its DeltaGard supply by raising the threshold to trigger a fogging operation, though that option hasn’t been approved. The city could also ramp up larviciding resources or switch to longer-lasting larvicides and reduce mosquito larval development sites, among other options, the report notes. “Potential alternatives to traditional mosquito control include introducing natural predators, a backyard mosquito trapping program, and releasing sterile males,” it states. The report doesn’t recommend a specific action but notes council’s community services committee could order another report to cost out the options. Longer lasting methoprene-based larvicides cost about three times more than a more basic option Winnipeg’s insect control branch uses in mosquito abatement zones beyond city limits, Wade said. However, the pricier option lasts 21 days, whereas others are only effective for a day or two. Whether the more potent product pays off in fewer mosquitoes largely depends on how often it rains, he said. The report notes Winnipeg has fogged adult nuisance mosquitoes on an as-required basis since 1950 and used DeltaGard as a less toxic option since 2017. Coun. Vivian Santos, chairwoman of the community services committee, did not respond to a request for comment. Coun. Evan Duncan, a former community services chairman, said he’s been impressed by how effective Winnipeg’s larviciding program is in warding off mosquitoes, especially in dry years. However, Duncan said it’s important for the city to ensure it is never left without a fogging product. “Going without any option for fogging makes me nervous... If we have a super wet season... where there’s no other option but to fog and we don’t have anything to fog with, that’s trouble,” he said. The report lists seven options the committee could consider: -Option 1: increase larviciding resources to inspect all known mosquito development sites within seven days, which would require a new mosquito control facility to accommodate more staff, vehicles and equipment. -Option 2: Expand the use of methoprene-based larvicides, which are effective over a longer period but are more expensive. -Option 3: Reduce the amount of mosquito larval development sites, such as by reducing standing water sites through drainage, which would require support from the province and rural municipalities. This could also include education for private landowners to reduce standing water. -Option 4: Introduce natural predators, such as adult dragonflies, certain birds, and bats, though that may not be cost effective. -Option 5: Add a backyard mosquito trap program, which could be subsidized, though this wouldn’t have much impact on parks and natural areas. -Option 6: Creating sterile lab-grown insects to release into the environment and reduce numbers of viable eggs. -Option 7: Obtain a new fogging product. -Option 8: Explore novel control options developed by academics, including new “sterile insect techniques,” though this research is not expected to be ready for at least 10 years. joyanne.pursaga@freepress.mb.ca X: @joyanne_pursaga Joyanne is city hall reporter for the Winnipeg Free Press. A reporter since 2004, she began covering politics exclusively in 2012, writing on city hall and the Manitoba Legislature for the before joining the in early 2020. . Every piece of reporting Joyanne produces is reviewed by an editing team before it is posted online or published in print — part of the ‘s tradition, since 1872, of producing reliable independent journalism. Read more about , and . Our newsroom depends on a growing audience of readers to power our journalism. If you are not a paid reader, please consider . Our newsroom depends on its audience of readers to power our journalism. Thank you for your support. Joyanne is city hall reporter for the Winnipeg Free Press. A reporter since 2004, she began covering politics exclusively in 2012, writing on city hall and the Manitoba Legislature for the before joining the in early 2020. . Every piece of reporting Joyanne produces is reviewed by an editing team before it is posted online or published in print — part of the ‘s tradition, since 1872, of producing reliable independent journalism. Read more about , and . Our newsroom depends on a growing audience of readers to power our journalism. If you are not a paid reader, please consider . Our newsroom depends on its audience of readers to power our journalism. Thank you for your support. Advertisement AdvertisementXRAY Investors Have Opportunity to Lead Dentsply Sirona Inc. Securities Fraud Lawsuit

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The upcoming eleventh season of is set to premiere on January 19, with hosts and welcoming a brand new group of stars to the jungle. Ahead of the launch, has started dropping clues for which celebrities will be donning an Akubra, facing their fears and flying to South Africa. The show’s official Instagram account shared that the cast will include a Star of the Silver Screen, a Matinée Idol, a Football Strongman, a Leading Lady, a Sporting Hero, a Chart-Topper, a Comedy Genius, a Pop Culture Icon, a Radio Star and a Stadium Superstar, amongst others. The guessing game has begun, so here’s everyone who may be appearing on 2025. One contestant tipped to cause drama in camp is a Spicy Reality Star who Channel 10 has described as “controversial”. “Our digs in South Africa are known for making an impression, so will it be love at first sight, or will this Reality Star get a reality check?” the clue reads, all but confirming it will be someone from . Fans in the comments have guessed it’s , Beck Zemek or , who recently competed on . However, a Channel 10 insider has told it could be 2023 groom . The production source revealed last month that the father-of-one had been brought up “several times” within the network's discussions, although it's unclear if he’s received an actual offer to appear. “Channel 10 wants the show to go back to being talked about in every office across Australia every morning, with huge personalities clashing in every episode,” our source detailed. “Harrison may not be the biggest name, but his views on women and feminism will infuriate people across the country and generate discussion - and they need a villain.” The show has teased that “one of Australia’s most famous funny guys” is heading into the jungle, prompting fans to guess Tom Gleeson, Carl Barron, Dave ‘Hughesy’ Hughes and Aaron Chen. Many people are also convinced it’s star Glenn Robbins after the show’s official Instagram account recently started following him - which is often a telltale sign as the account only follows former contestants. Meanwhile, others have suggested the clue is about Hamish Blake, writing: “Hamish Blake won [the] 2011 New York bodybuilding championship in the heavyweight category. It was a joke and he was the only one heavy enough in his category so the heavyweight clue fits, and he is a legend.” Reality TV fans are convinced a star will be joining the cast as the Romantic Leading Man, following in the footsteps of former Bachelors Tim Robards and Nick ‘Honey Badger’ Cummins. “Can Mr Smooth sweet talk his way through camp?” the promo teases. “Hope he doesn’t break his heart!” There are 13 possible contenders if it is a former Bachelor, although many think it could be season seven star Matt Agnew as he’s recently been increasing his media appearances and even popped up on last month. Another celebrity who has been teased is an AFL premiership winner who is “fresh from the game”. “From the roar of the crowd to the roar of the lions,” Robert says in the promo, prompting fans to guess Brisbane Lions premiership player Joe Daniher. The 30-year-old made his debut with the Lions in 2021 and announced his retirement in October, just five days after winning the 2024 premiership. A Footy Legend is heading into the jungle, with the clue saying he’s “swapping his glory days for gory days”. Most fans are convinced it’s someone who has played for the Brisbane Lions as the clue package uses maroon and gold colours and hints that they have something to do with an iconic African animal. The specific clue ‘A Footy Legend’ also appears to confirm it’s an AFL star based on the first letters, and social media users think it might be Jason Akermanis, Ben Hunt or Jonathan Brown. The new season is set to feature a mega movie star who will “steal the spotlight in Africa”, with her clue reading: “This multi-award winning actress has had some massive roles, but will this be her biggest role yet?” Many fans think the celebrity might be Sigrid Thornton, best known for her roles in and , as the clue package features horses and a river. The 65-year-old has also won multiple awards, including two Logies and an AACTA. Others have guessed Claudia Karvan, Jessica McNamee and , who won in 2019 and is rumoured to have turned down an appearance in . Another star packing their bags for South Africa is a TV Host who is “no stranger to the fame game”, with the clue reading: “This TV host is trading the fame game for the fun and games of the jungle, and we think it’ll be a scream!” Fans have guessed the TV Host heading into the jungle will be Georgia Love, Sonia Kruger or former judge - who has previously been tipped to join the new season. An insider previously told that Channel 10 likely won’t renew for a third season next year due to low ratings, however, they “don’t want to lose their relationship” with the food critic and are hoping to cast her on another show. “What has happened in the past with Channel 10’s ‘network talent’ after their flagship show gets cancelled is that they get offered a significant pay cheque to enter the jungle,” our source shared. “We saw that with Tristan McManus last year after was axed. He was reluctant but eventually agreed as the network promised him more work if he signed up for the reality show.” This could also be the case for , whose shows and were put on hold in 2024. ’s official Instagram account has recently started following Osher, which may be another clue that he’s joined the cast. The first celebrity Channel 10 teased is a Headline-Grabbing Olympian who is “no stranger to making headlines”, writing: “They’re a freestyle lover, but how much will they love being free with creepy crawlies when they land in the jungle?” Viewers immediately took to social media to predict that the celebrity is none other than , who broke the internet and became a household name thanks to her performance at the 2024 Olympics. “I’m boycotting the show if it’s Raygun,” one person commented, while another added, “I will not watch if Raygun goes into the jungle”. A third remarked: “If Raygun is there, just vote her in for EVERY SINGLE tucker trial.” A source close to production told earlier this month that Raygun had changed her mind after previously anytime soon and was “very close to signing on”. “Raygun is one name at the top of the list who bosses have been working on since she went viral,” they shared. “Initially Raygun’s team declined, but now she’s realising her window to make big money is quickly closing - and it’s unlikely she’ll ever get a six-figure sum to do a show ever again.”How deepfake technology works

New York, United States — The man accused of gunning down a health insurance executive in a brazen hit in New York that sparked fierce debate about the industry pleaded not guilty Monday to state charges including "terrorist" murder. Luigi Mangione wore a white shirt, burgundy sweatshirt and was shackled during his appearance in a Manhattan court where he was flanked by police officers. Monday's hearing came after Mangione, 26, appeared in a New York court last week to face federal charges also including murder following his dramatic extradition by plane and helicopter from Pennsylvania, where he was arrested at a McDonald's restaurant. The suspect is charged in both state and federal court in the 4 December shooting of UnitedHealthcare chief executive Brian Thompson. Thompson's murder brought to the surface deep public frustration with the expensive and opaque US medical insurance system, with many social media users painting Mangione as a hero. People demonstrating against the industry gathered outside court Monday brandishing banners reading "free Luigi" and "innocent until proven guilty." If convicted in the state case, Mangione could face life imprisonment with no parole. In the federal case, he could technically face the death penalty. Mangioni's attorney Karen Friedman Agnifilo has previously sought clarity on how simultaneous federal and state charges would work, calling the situation "highly unusual." 'Political fodder' Agnifilo raised concerns on Monday that Mangione could not receive a fair trial, and questioned why New York mayor Eric Adams had been present when Mangione was brought off a police helicopter at a Manhattan helipad last week. Aginifilo told local media Monday that officials "are treating him like he is like some sort of political fodder." She said the sight of Mangione flanked by rifle-wielding tactical officers during the final stage of his extradition that was widely broadcast was "utterly political." Mangione was arrested in Altoona, Pennsylvania, on 9 December following a tip from staff at a McDonald's restaurant, after a days-long manhunt. He had traveled to New York by bus from Atlanta about 10 days before the crime, the Department of Justice said. After checking into a Manhattan hostel with false identification, he allegedly performed reconnaissance near the victim's hotel and the conference venue where the shooting took place. Early on 4 December, Mangione allegedly tracked Thompson, walked up behind him and fired several gunshots from a pistol with a silencer, prosecutors allege. Afterward, he fled on a bicycle. Police say a "life-changing, life-altering" back injury may have motivated Mangione, although there was no indication he was ever a client of UnitedHealthcare. When he was arrested, Mangione had a three-page handwritten text criticizing the US health care system, authorities have said. Reports that the casings of the bullets fired at Thompson had "depose, deny, delay" inscribed on them prompted stories on social media about health insurers who allegedly used those terms to get out of covering medical care. Such disputes are among the grievances that many have with a health system criticized for mysterious billing practices, profit-seeking middlemen, confusing jargon and costly drugs. (Source: Andréa BAMBINO, AFP)Amber Heard has broken her silence on the sexual harassment lawsuit Blake Lively filed against her It Ends with Us co-star , Justin Baldoni. The pair were cast as leads in the film adaptation of Colleen Hoover's best-selling novel by the same name. Despite their initial mutual admiration in interviews, rumors of a fallout surfaced around the film's release. Both Blake, 37, and Justin, 40, declined to promote the film together, opting for separate red carpet photos and interviews. Blake has since shocked Hollywood by filing a sexual harassment lawsuit against Justin , alleging inappropriate behavior towards her and other cast and crew members. Justin is reportedly employing PR manager Melissa Nathan, who represented Johnny Depp during his defamation trial with Amber, which resulted in Depp being awarded $10million in compensatory damages and an additional $5million in punitive damages. Blake Lively's sister breaks silence after actress files a sexual harassment lawsuit against Justin Baldoni Blake Lively was 'alarmed' that Justin Baldoni cast 'best friend' for intimate scene in It Ends With Us, says lawsuit The pregnant actress, currently residing in Spain, shared her perspective with NBC News, noting: "Social media is the absolute personification of the classic saying 'A lie travels halfway around the world before truth can get its boots on.' I saw this firsthand and up close. It's as horrifying as it is destructive." In the lawsuit, Blake claims he allowed his "friends" to watch her film certain sex scenes and added unapproved sexual scenes to the film. Justin, a married father of two, has refuted these allegations, labeling the lawsuit a "desperate attempt to 'fix' her negative reputation" following backlash over Blake's own conduct. The actress previously accused the film's director of sexual harassment, creating a hostile work environment, and attempting to smear her reputation through a targeted social media campaign in an undated complaint submitted to the California Civil Rights Department. Blake had been embroiled in controversy over the promotion of her movie, receiving criticism from fans who deemed her "tone deaf" for overlooking the film's deeper themes of domestic abuse. In a widely shared social media post, she encouraged her followers: "Grab your friends, wear your florals, and head out to see it" a statement that some argued trivialized the film's serious content. Amidst the fallout, there were concerns for Blake's future in the industry. An insider confided to Daily Mail in August: "Blake is definitely saddened by the hate she is getting and is trying not to let it affect her, but it is." The insider continued, explaining Blake's disappointment and fears: "She thought this was her moment to shine, but is now looking at it like the end of her career. She's fearing no one will want to work with her after this. She really wants to continue producing and directing and acting, but she knows she needs to take a step back for a minute to reassess the future." Click here to follow the Mirror US on Google News to stay up to date with all the latest news, sport and entertainment stories. All the latest news, showbiz, lifestyle and sports updates, brought to you by our dedicated American team. Follow the Mirror US News page on Facebook to make sure you're not missing out. DAILY NEWSLETTER: Sign up here to get the latest news and updates from the Mirror US straight to your inbox with our FREE newsletter.

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CM Omar opens doors to protesting studentsNova Scotia non-profit groups trying to save huge Acadian church now facing lawsuit HALIFAX — The Roman Catholic Church in southwestern Nova Scotia has filed a lawsuit against two Acadian groups trying to save a huge, deconsecrated church. Michael MacDonald, The Canadian Press Dec 13, 2024 1:30 PM Share by Email Share on Facebook Share on X Share on LinkedIn Print Share via Text Message An aerial photo of St. Bernard Roman Catholic Church in St. Bernard, N.S., on the province’s southwestern coast, is seen in an undated handout photo. THE CANADIAN PRESS/HO-Travis Baker, *MANDATORY CREDIT* HALIFAX — The Roman Catholic Church in southwestern Nova Scotia has filed a lawsuit against two Acadian groups trying to save a huge, deconsecrated church. The Roman Catholic Episcopal Corporation of Yarmouth says Heritage Saint Bernard and Nation Prospere Acadie Inc. have fallen behind in their mortgage payments and owe $200,000 for their purchase last year of the former Saint Bernard Church. The massive building in St. Bernard, N.S., is a historic landmark along the province's Acadian shore. Construction began in 1910 under the leadership of Rev. Edouard LeBlanc, who in 1912 became the Roman Catholic Church's first ever Acadian bishop. The 1,300-square-metre church southwest of Digby, N.S., opened in 1942 after local workmen spent three decades assembling the massive structure from 8,000 granite blocks. But the years have taken a toll on the building, and the number of people attending mass shrunk to the point where the church was closed in 2022. The surrounding parish in the Municipality of Clare now includes about 250 people. The church used to seat more than 1,000 people during a weekend mass. "It's hard enough to try to save this building without the diocese putting sticks in our wheels," Jean LeBlanc, president of Heritage Saint Bernard, said in an interview Friday. "It's been an iconic structure on the shores of St. Marys Bay. We're trying to repurpose it for the community and the diocese is saying no, we want it back." LeBlanc said the two groups succeeded in making the first $50,000 mortgage payment in July 2023, but they failed to pay the next $50,000 instalment in August 2024. He said the groups had raised another $40,000, but much of that money was used to repair the building's doors and leaking roof. "If we didn't spend that $40,000 we couldn't have gotten in the church," LeBlanc said, adding that local residents remain worried it will eventually be sold off and possibly demolished. At a meeting in May with Archbishop Brian Joseph Dunn, the groups asked to renegotiate the mortgage. Those requests led nowhere and the corporation filed its lawsuit with the Supreme Court of Nova Scotia on Oct. 30. On Friday, the archdiocese issued a statement saying it had received more than 100 offers for the property, which it valued at $250,000. The statement says the non-profits were chosen as the winning bidder because "it would be a means to preserve the building and its historic and cultural value to the Acadian people." The statement goes on to say Dunn made the decision after consulting with the local parish, which would get the money from the sale. "Because this money goes directly to the local community in Clare through ... the local parish, the archdiocese could not accept less than the amount originally agreed upon," the statement says. "After reaching out to (the non-profits) and waiting several months for payment to be made, it was decided to take legal action." LeBlanc says the two groups are still seeking more time to pay or easier terms. "We were trying to negotiate with them, but they kept saying, no, no, no," he said. "I don't know why they want to do something like this." LeBlanc said the next step is finding a lawyer. "We're hoping to avoid going to court because that would be a very long and expensive process," he said. "Hopefully, we can reach a settlement." This report by The Canadian Press was first published Dec. 13, 2024. Michael MacDonald, The Canadian Press See a typo/mistake? Have a story/tip? This has been shared 0 times 0 Shares Share by Email Share on Facebook Share on X Share on LinkedIn Print Share via Text Message More National Business S&P/TSX composite down more than 100 points, U.S. stock markets mixed Dec 13, 2024 1:32 PM Court approves The Body Shop Canada sale, about 100 to lose jobs as some stores close Dec 13, 2024 1:21 PM Federal minister asks labour board to intervene in Canada Post strike Dec 13, 2024 1:13 PM Featured FlyerAccording to Google’s Year in Search report, 2024 was a standout year for sports. Major sporting events – Copa America, UEFA European Championship, and ICC Men’s T20 World Cup – topped the list of overall searches, while the Olympics ranked third among the biggest news items on Google. Notable athletes such as Algerian boxer Imane Khelif, legendary boxer Mike Tyson, Spanish footballer Lamine Yamal, and US gymnast Simone Biles were also among the top 10 most searched individuals on Google in 2024. Two Indians – Hardik Pandya and Shashank Singh – featured among the world’s top 10 most searched athletes while Virat Kohli, Rohit Sharma, Lionel Messi, and Cristiano Ronaldo missed out. The most searched athlete of the year was Imane Khelif , who won the welterweight gold medal at the Paris Olympics but has consistently faced questions over her female gender. Tyson is second on the list of most searched sportspersons in 2024. The 58-year-old iconic boxer returned to professional boxing in November when he took on YouTuber-turned-boxer Jake Paul in a Netflix-backed match. Barcelona’s 17-year-old football Yamal, who led Spain to Euro 2024 title, is third in the list followed by Biles, who won three gold medals at the Paris Olympics, and Paul. Hardik Pandya and Shashank Singh are seventh and ninth respectively on the list. Pandya, who captained Mumbai Indians during the Indian Premier League (2024), was constantly in the news after replacing Rohit Sharma in the leadership role and also helped India win the T20 World Cup 2024 . Shashank had a memorable IPL with Punjab Kings, scoring 354 runs in 14 matches at a strike rate of 164.65. The list of most searched teams was dominated by American sides with MLB side New York Yankees featuring at the top followed by Los Angeles Dodgers and Lionel Messi’s Inter Miami, who play in MLS. The only European football team in the top 10 list is Bayer Leverkusen, who set a European record of 51 games in a row without loss across all competitions in the 2023-24 season. Searches (Global) Copa América UEFA European Championship ICC Men’s T20 World Cup India vs England Liam Payne Donald Trump India vs Bangladesh iPhone 16 Olympic Games Paris 2024 Catherine, Princess of Wales News (Global) US Election Excessive heat Olympics Hurricane Milton 台風 気象 情報 台風 第 10 号 (Japanese for “Typhoon Weather Information Typhoon No.10”) Iran Rafah Crowdstrike Trump shot Menendez brothers Most searched people (Global) Donald Trump Catherine, Princess of Wales Kamala Harris Imane Khelif Joe Biden Mike Tyson JD Vance Lamine Yamal Simone Biles Diddy Most searched athlete (Global) Imane Khelif Mike Tyson Lamine Yamal Simone Biles Jake Paul Nico Williams Hardik Pandya Scoie Scheer Shashank Singh Rodri Most searched sports team (Global) New York Yankees Los Angeles Dodgers Inter Miami CF Bayer 04 Leverkusen Boston Celtics New York Mets Dallas Mavericks Argentina national football team Minnesota Timberwolves Edmonton Oilers

SAN DIEGO, Dec. 13, 2024 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) -- Shareholder rights law firm Robbins LLP is investigating Paycor HCM, Inc. (NASDAQ: PYCR) to determine whether certain Paycor officers and directors violated securities laws and breached fiduciary duties to shareholders. Paycor HCM, together with its subsidiaries, engages in the provision of human capital management solutions for small and medium-sized businesses primarily in the United States. What Now: If you own shares of Paycor HCM, Inc. and have lost money in your investment, contact us for more information about your rights. All representation is on a contingency fee basis. Shareholders pay no fees or expenses. Contact us to learn more: Aaron Dumas, Jr. (800) 350-6003 adumas@robbinsllp.com Shareholder Information Form About Robbins LLP : A recognized leader in shareholder rights litigation, the attorneys and staff of Robbins LLP have been dedicated to helping shareholders recover losses, improve corporate governance structures, and hold company executives accountable for their wrongdoing since 2002. Since our inception, we have obtained over $1 billion for shareholders. To be notified if a class action against Paycor HCM, Inc. settles or to receive free alerts when corporate executives engage in wrongdoing, sign up for Stock Watch today. Attorney Advertising. Past results do not guarantee a similar outcome.Judge in Alex Jones' bankruptcy case orders new hearing on The Onion's bid for Infowars