Sanctuary Advisors LLC purchased a new position in shares of Prosperity Bancshares, Inc. ( NYSE:PB – Free Report ) in the 3rd quarter, according to its most recent Form 13F filing with the Securities & Exchange Commission. The institutional investor purchased 5,165 shares of the bank’s stock, valued at approximately $372,000. Several other large investors have also recently added to or reduced their stakes in PB. M&T Bank Corp grew its position in Prosperity Bancshares by 0.3% during the third quarter. M&T Bank Corp now owns 45,392 shares of the bank’s stock worth $3,272,000 after buying an additional 149 shares during the period. US Bancorp DE grew its position in Prosperity Bancshares by 3.4% during the third quarter. US Bancorp DE now owns 4,720 shares of the bank’s stock worth $340,000 after buying an additional 153 shares during the period. Tectonic Advisors LLC grew its position in Prosperity Bancshares by 3.0% during the third quarter. Tectonic Advisors LLC now owns 7,058 shares of the bank’s stock worth $509,000 after buying an additional 206 shares during the period. GAMMA Investing LLC grew its position in Prosperity Bancshares by 47.9% during the third quarter. GAMMA Investing LLC now owns 701 shares of the bank’s stock worth $51,000 after buying an additional 227 shares during the period. Finally, GHP Investment Advisors Inc. grew its position in Prosperity Bancshares by 1.3% during the third quarter. GHP Investment Advisors Inc. now owns 17,967 shares of the bank’s stock worth $1,295,000 after buying an additional 228 shares during the period. 80.69% of the stock is owned by hedge funds and other institutional investors. Analysts Set New Price Targets Several research analysts have weighed in on PB shares. UBS Group lowered their target price on shares of Prosperity Bancshares from $77.00 to $76.00 and set a “buy” rating on the stock in a research report on Thursday. Raymond James lowered shares of Prosperity Bancshares from a “strong-buy” rating to an “outperform” rating and set a $80.00 price target on the stock. in a research report on Tuesday, September 17th. Wolfe Research reiterated a “peer perform” rating on shares of Prosperity Bancshares in a research report on Thursday, December 5th. Royal Bank of Canada reiterated a “sector perform” rating and issued a $77.00 price target on shares of Prosperity Bancshares in a research report on Thursday, October 24th. Finally, DA Davidson lowered shares of Prosperity Bancshares from a “buy” rating to a “neutral” rating and lowered their price target for the company from $80.00 to $78.00 in a research report on Tuesday, October 15th. One analyst has rated the stock with a sell rating, five have assigned a hold rating and eight have assigned a buy rating to the company. According to MarketBeat.com, Prosperity Bancshares has a consensus rating of “Moderate Buy” and a consensus target price of $81.50. Prosperity Bancshares Stock Down 1.1 % NYSE:PB opened at $75.43 on Friday. The company has a market cap of $7.19 billion, a P/E ratio of 16.01, a P/E/G ratio of 1.19 and a beta of 0.92. Prosperity Bancshares, Inc. has a fifty-two week low of $57.16 and a fifty-two week high of $86.75. The firm’s 50 day moving average is $78.88 and its two-hundred day moving average is $71.99. Prosperity Bancshares ( NYSE:PB – Get Free Report ) last posted its quarterly earnings results on Wednesday, October 23rd. The bank reported $1.34 earnings per share for the quarter, topping analysts’ consensus estimates of $1.31 by $0.03. The company had revenue of $459.00 million for the quarter, compared to the consensus estimate of $299.83 million. Prosperity Bancshares had a net margin of 25.39% and a return on equity of 6.46%. During the same quarter last year, the firm posted $1.20 earnings per share. Research analysts forecast that Prosperity Bancshares, Inc. will post 5.05 earnings per share for the current fiscal year. Prosperity Bancshares Increases Dividend The firm also recently announced a quarterly dividend, which will be paid on Thursday, January 2nd. Stockholders of record on Friday, December 13th will be paid a $0.58 dividend. This represents a $2.32 dividend on an annualized basis and a dividend yield of 3.08%. The ex-dividend date is Friday, December 13th. This is an increase from Prosperity Bancshares’s previous quarterly dividend of $0.56. Prosperity Bancshares’s dividend payout ratio (DPR) is currently 49.26%. Insider Activity In related news, Director Harrison Stafford II sold 4,000 shares of Prosperity Bancshares stock in a transaction on Friday, December 13th. The shares were sold at an average price of $80.07, for a total transaction of $320,280.00. Following the sale, the director now owns 107,137 shares of the company’s stock, valued at $8,578,459.59. The trade was a 3.60 % decrease in their position. The transaction was disclosed in a filing with the SEC, which is accessible through the SEC website . Also, Director Ned S. Holmes sold 500 shares of the firm’s stock in a transaction on Wednesday, December 18th. The stock was sold at an average price of $78.48, for a total transaction of $39,240.00. Following the transaction, the director now directly owns 110,815 shares of the company’s stock, valued at approximately $8,696,761.20. This represents a 0.45 % decrease in their ownership of the stock. The disclosure for this sale can be found here . In the last 90 days, insiders have sold 12,100 shares of company stock valued at $1,004,719. Company insiders own 4.28% of the company’s stock. About Prosperity Bancshares ( Free Report ) Prosperity Bancshares, Inc operates as bank holding company for the Prosperity Bank that provides financial products and services to businesses and consumers. It accepts various deposit products, such as demand, savings, money market, and time accounts, as well as and certificates of deposit. The company also offers 1-4 family residential mortgage, commercial real estate and multifamily residential, commercial and industrial, agricultural, and non-real estate agricultural loans, as well as construction, land development, and other land loans; consumer loans, including automobile, recreational vehicle, boat, home improvement, personal, and deposit account collateralized loans; term loans and lines of credit; and consumer durables and home equity loans, as well as loans for working capital, business expansion, and purchase of equipment and machinery. Featured Articles Five stocks we like better than Prosperity Bancshares About the Markup Calculator S&P 500 ETFs: Expense Ratios That Can Boost Your Long-Term Gains What is an Earnings Surprise? How AI Implementation Could Help MongoDB Roar Back in 2025 What is a support level? Hedge Funds Boost Oil Positions: Is a Major Rally on the Horizon? Want to see what other hedge funds are holding PB? Visit HoldingsChannel.com to get the latest 13F filings and insider trades for Prosperity Bancshares, Inc. ( NYSE:PB – Free Report ). Receive News & Ratings for Prosperity Bancshares Daily - Enter your email address below to receive a concise daily summary of the latest news and analysts' ratings for Prosperity Bancshares and related companies with MarketBeat.com's FREE daily email newsletter .Wray Continues Pattern Of Honoring Institutions Even As Trump Burns Them Down
The Onion's bid to buy Infowars goes before judge as Alex Jones tries stopping sale The Onion's bid to buy conspiracy theorist Alex Jones' Infowars has returned to a Texas courtroom. A federal judge in Houston is hearing arguments Monday on whether a bankruptcy auction was run properly as Jones alleges collusion and fraud. The hearing is expected to continue into Tuesday. The Onion satirical news outlet was named the winning bidder last month over a company affiliated with Jones. The auction was held to help pay nearly $1.5 billion in defamation judgments that Jones was ordered to pay families of victims of the 2012 Sandy Hook Elementary School shooting. The families won lawsuits against Jones for calling the shooting a hoax. Juan Soto agrees to record $765 million, 15-year contract with Mets, AP source says DALLAS (AP) — A person familiar with the deal tells The Associated Press that star outfielder Juan Soto and the New York Mets have agreed to a record $765 million, 15-year contract. The person spoke on condition of anonymity because the agreement, first reported by the New York Post, was subject to a successful physical. Soto’s deal is the largest and longest in Major League Baseball history, topping Shohei Ohtani’s $700 million, 10-year contract with the Los Angeles Dodgers and Fernando Tatis Jr.’s $340 million, 14-year contract with San Diego. Soto's deal does not include deferred money, the person said. TikTok asks federal appeals court to bar enforcement of potential ban until Supreme Court review TikTok on Monday asked a federal appeals court to bar the Biden administration from enforcing a law that could lead to a ban on the popular platform until the Supreme Court reviews the case. The legal filing was made after a panel of judges on the same court sided with the government last week and ruled that the law, which requires TikTok to divest from its China-based parent company or face a ban as soon as next month, was constitutional. If the law is not overturned, both TikTok and its parent company ByteDance have said the popular app will shut down by mid-January. Pinheiro Braathen performs snow samba to celebrate Brazil's first podium in a World Cup ski race It’s not just soccer anymore. Brazil is finding World Cup success in skiing now too. Lucas Pinheiro Braathen became the first Brazilian skier to finish on a World Cup podium when he placed second in a giant slalom in Beaver Creek, Colorado, on Sunday. Pinheiro Braathen celebrated the achievement in truly Brazilian style: with a samba dance on the podium, the Brazilian flag wrapped around his waist and cowboy boots on his feet. Pinheiro Braathen’s mother is Brazilian and his father is Norwegian. He raced for Norway until switching his nationality for this season. The end of an Eras tour approaches, marking a bittersweet moment for Taylor Swift fans NASHVILLE, Tenn. (AP) — The global phenomenon that is Taylor Swift’s Eras Tour is coming to an end after the popstar performed more than 150 shows across five continents over nearly two years. Since launching the tour in 2023, Swift has shattered sales and attendance records. It's even created such an economic boom that the Federal Reserve took note. But for many who attended the concerts, and the millions more who eagerly watched on their screens, the tour also became a beacon of joy. It's become a chance not only to appreciate Swift’s expansive music career, but also celebrate the yearslong journey fans have taken with her. College Football Playoff's first 12-team bracket is set with Oregon No. 1 and SMU in, Alabama out SMU captured the last open spot in the 12-team College Football Playoff, bumping Alabama to land in a bracket that placed undefeated Oregon at No. 1. The selection committee preferred the Mustangs, losers of a heartbreaker in the Atlantic Coast Conference title game, who had a far less difficult schedule than Alabama of the SEC but one fewer loss. The inaugural 12-team bracket marks a new era for college football, though the Alabama-SMU debate made clear there is no perfect formula. The tournament starts Dec. 20-21 with four first-round games. It concludes Jan. 20 with the national title game in Atlanta. Dave Parker and Dick Allen elected to baseball's Hall of Fame DALLAS (AP) — Dave Parker and Dick Allen have been elected to baseball’s Hall of Fame by the classic era committee. Parker received 14 of 16 votes and Allen got 13. A vote of 75% or more was needed for election. They will be inducted into the Hall of Fame on July 27 along with players voted in by the Baseball Writers’ Association of America, whose balloting will be announced on Jan. 21. ‘Moana 2’ cruises to another record weekend and $600 million globally “Moana 2” remains at the top of the box office in its second weekend in theaters as it pulled in another record haul. According to studio estimates Sunday, the animated Disney film added $52 million, bringing its domestic total to $300 million. That surpasses the take for the original “Moana” and brings the sequel's global tally to a staggering $600 million. It also puts the film in this year's top five at the box office. “Wicked” came in second place for the weekend with $34.9 million and “Gladiator II” was third with $12.5 million. The 10th anniversary re-release of Christopher Nolan's “Interstellar” also earned an impressive $4.4 million even though it played in only 165 theaters. Hemingway look-alikes visit Cuba and some of the late writer's favorite places HAVANA (AP) — Eighteen white-bearded men who resemble the late U.S. author Ernest Hemingway have arrived in Havana for the weekend to visit some of the his favorite places when he lived on the island decades ago. Members of the Hemingway Look-alike Society visited the author’s favorite bar in Havana, La Floridita, where the music immediately picked up, and tourists and locals gathered around to take photos. The visit comes as Cuba and the United States are in the midst of tense relations. Hemingway lived in Cuba from 1939 to 1960. 'Reindeer' volunteers bring holiday magic to Ukrainian children living on the frontlines IZIUM, Ukraine (AP) — A volunteer group is trying to fulfill the holiday dreams of thousands of children living near the frontlines in Ukraine. The St. Nicholas’ Reindeers initiative publishes letters online detailing the children's wishes. Some ask for gifts, such as a bicycle or a pet mouse, alongside more complicated requests for their family members to be released from captivity or to be able to return to their homes. Donors fulfill the gift requests and volunteer “reindeers,” named for the magical beasts that pull Santa's sleigh, deliver them in the weeks following Dec. 6, when Ukraine celebrates St. Nicholas Day. Project co-founder Inna Achkasova says the reindeer volunteers aim to ensure that every child feels seen, heard and loved.On paper, Luigi Mangione had it all: wealth, intellect, athleticism, good looks. But the child of a prominent Maryland family may have spurned it all in a spasm of violence, in a killing that has mesmerized Americans. The 26-year-old was arrested Monday and charged with the murder of Brian Thompson, a health insurance chief executive and father of two who was gunned down in Manhattan last week by someone who, evidence suggests, has endured his own debilitating health crises and grew angry with the privatized US medical system. The cold-blooded killing has laid bare the deep frustration many Americans feel toward the country's labyrinthine health care system: while many have condemned the shooting, others have praised Mangione as a hero. It has also prompted considerable interest in how a young engineer with an Ivy League education could have gone off the rails to commit murder. News of his capture at a Pennsylvania McDonald's triggered an explosion of online activity, with Mangione quickly amassing new followers on social media as citizen sleuths and US media tried to understand who he is. As Americans have looked for clues about a political ideology or potential motive, a photo on his X account (formerly Twitter) includes an X-ray of an apparently injured spine. Mangione lived in Hawaii in 2022 and, according to his former roommate R.J. Martin, suffered from back pain, and was hoping to strengthen his back. After a surfing lesson, Mangione was "in bed for about a week" because of the pain, Martin told CNN. Earlier this year, Martin said, Mangione confirmed he'd had back surgery and sent him photos of the X-rays. Police said the suspect carried a hand-written manifesto of grievances in which he slammed America's "most expensive health care system in the world." "He was writing a lot about his disdain for corporate America and in particular the health care industry," New York police chief detective Joseph Kenny told ABC. According to CNN, a document recovered when Mangione was arrested included the phrase "these parasites had it coming." Meanwhile, memes and jokes proliferated, many riffing on his first name and comparing him to the "Mario Bros." video game character Luigi. Many expressed at least partial sympathy, having had their own harrowing experiences with the US health care system. "Godspeed. Please know that we all hear you," wrote one user on Facebook. Mangione hails from the Baltimore area. His wealthy Italian-American family owns local businesses, including the Hayfields Country Club, according to local outlet the Baltimore Banner, and cousin Nino Mangione is a Maryland state delegate. A standout student, Luigi graduated at the top of his high school class in 2016. A former student who knew Mangione at the elite Gilman School told AFP the suspect struck him as "a normal guy, nice kid." "There was nothing about him that was off, at least from my perception," the person said. Mangione attended the prestigious University of Pennsylvania, where he completed both a bachelor's and master's degree in computer science by 2020, according to a university spokesperson. While at Penn, Mangione co-led a group of 60 undergraduates who collaborated on video game projects, as noted in a now-deleted university webpage. On Instagram Mangione shared snapshots of his travels, and shirtless images of himself flaunting a six-pack. X users have scoured Mangione's posts for potential motives. His header photo includes an X-ray of a spine with bolts attached. Finding a political ideology that fits neatly onto the right-left divide has proved elusive, though he had written a review of Ted Kaczynski's manifesto on online site Goodreads, calling it "prescient." Kaczynski, known as the Unabomber, carried out multiple bombings in the United States from 1978 to 1995, in a campaign he said was aimed at halting the advance of modern society and technology. Mangione has also linked approvingly to posts criticizing secularism as a harmful consequence of Christianity's decline, and retweeted posts on the impact mobile phones and social media have on mental health. ia/abo-mlm/nroNathan Demian, a Langley native and Surrey United soccer product who’s a redshirt junior defender with Ohio State, was the victim of an off-campus shooting at about 2 a.m. on Sunday, according to the school’s athletic department. Ohio State had defeated visiting Wake Forest 3-0 on Saturday to advance to the NCAA Tournament semifinals. “He was an innocent bystander, is not a suspect in any way, and was not involved in any altercation,” the university said in a statement posted on X. “The soccer program is thankful for the incredible university support and medical care available to Nathan and his family during this difficult time. “Nathan’s family is with him, and the team is extremely close. The family has asked that everyone keep Nathan in their prayers. The department will do all it can to support Nathan, his family and the men’s soccer program in every way possible.” According to the Columbus Dispatch , Demian was taken to OSU Wexner Medical Center in serious condition but is expected to survive. He’s one of seven children to David and Ruth Demian. Columbus police said two vehicles were chasing each other, and occupants were firing at each other when a stray bullet struck Demian, the newpaper reported. Longtime Surrey United sporting director Jeff Clarke called Nathan “one of the most enjoyable kids to work with because of his spirit and his positive energy ... just a joy to work with.” “He’s one of the most well-rounded teammates you could have,” said Clarke, who’s a former Vancouver Whitecaps midfielder/defender. “Very popular, very supportive in the locker-room. He keeps things light but is also an incredible competitor on the field.” Clarke believes that knowing “Nathan for 10 years, knowing the family, I’d put my house on it being wrong place, wrong time.” Demian attending Burnaby Central and University Hill for high school. After Surrey United, he moved onto the Whitecaps Academy youth program from 2015-21. He played internationally for Canada in 2017 (U-15) and 2019 (U-17). More to come ... sewen@postmedia.com
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Our community members are treated to special offers, promotions and adverts from us and our partners. You can check out at any time. More info I'm A Celebrity...Get Me Out Of Here! star Dean McCullough was forced to leave main camp during the latest episode - but all was not as it seemed. The Radio 1 DJ entered the jungle on Sunday (November 17) as one of the main cast, which includes WAG Coleen Rooney, Corrie's Alan Halsall, N-Dubz singer Tulisa Contostavlos and TikTok sensation GK Barry. During Thursday (November 21) night Maura Higgins and Reverend Richard Coles joined the reality show as late arrivals and were separated from the rest of the stars. The duo was banished to live in the Jungle Junkyard, which the main camp believes is rundown, despite the junkyard having hidden luxuries. In Friday (November 22) night's programme, hosts Ant McPartlin and Dec Donnelly presented an unexpected twist that required Maura and Richard to recruit a campmate to join them in the junkyard, letting him into their life of luxury. After completing the day's Bushtucker trial, Maura and Richard invited the Northern Irish celebrity into their living quarters, keeping up the ruse that they don’t even have beds. The ex-Love Islander then spilt the secret, telling Dean: "The only half-decent thing we have over here, this red button, press that, it’s actually quite interesting. It’s not great but it’s something." Once Dean pressed the button, he was let in on the Jungle Junkyard secret. Initially left speechless by the twist, the BBC presenter then whispered: "You’ve got to be kidding me!" He praised the new campers' acting skills, and quipped: " The BAFTA is coming!" While Dean was settling in, newcomer Maura took full advantage of the junkyard and relaxed in a bubble bath. Meanwhile, the main camp was still in the dark about the Jungle Junkyard and reflected on their fellow campmate's fate, saying: "Poor Dean." Dean has become one of the most talked-about contestants this year after repeatedly quitting trials early. Ahead of entering the jungle, the star was transparent about his fears, he told ITV: "I’m terrified of everything and the more I think about being put in the ground with 50 snakes or getting those green fly things that bite poured over me – well there's just no point thinking about it, as otherwise I won’t get on the plane." Despite his previous challenge hiccups, the 32-year-old won a total of eight stars alongside Danny Jones in tonight's game. I’m A Celebrity...Get Me Out Of Here! returns tomorrow at 9pm on ITV1 and ITVX.Who is Luigi Mangione? Person of interest in UnitedHealthcare CEO killing praised Unabomber
IOWA CITY, Iowa — Lucy Olsen scored 25 points and No. 21 Iowa stormed past No. 18 Iowa State in the fourth quarter to take a 75-69 win on Wednesday night before a sold-out crowd of 14,998 at Carver-Hawkeye Arena. Sydney Affolter added 16 points and Hannah Stuelke 13 points and nine rebounds for the Hawkeyes (9-1), who shot 43% to Iowa State's 52% but scored 24 points off 21 turnovers with nine of those turnovers coming in the fourth quarter when Iowa outscored the Cyclones 22-13. Audi Crooks scored 31 points with 10 rebounds and Addy Brown added 13 points for Iowa State (8-3). The Cyclones hurt themselves with the turnovers but also at the line where they made just 6 of 16 to 15 of 25 for Iowa. Iowa State led for nearly 33 minutes but Iowa's defense fed a 13-2 run over the final five minutes. After Crooks was called for traveling, Aaliyah Guyton hit a 3-pointer with 45 seconds left and Stuelke added two free throws for a 10-point lead. Iowa State led by three after one quarter and the teams matched each other in the next two quarters, though the Cyclones had a 10-point lead with a few minutes left in the third. Iowa State announced earlier Wednesday that junior guard Kenzi Hare would miss the rest of the season because of an ongoing hip injury. Hare started eight games, averaging 8.3 points in her first season with the Cyclones after two years at Marquette. Iowa State is home against Eastern Illinois on Monday. Iowa is at Michigan State on Sunday in the Big Ten opener for both teams. Iowa guard Lucy Olsen (33) shoots over Iowa State guard Arianna Jackson (2) during the first half of an NCAA college basketball game, Wednesday, Dec. 11, 2024, in Iowa City, Iowa. Credit: AP/Charlie NeibergallGill: We Foresee Significant Growth in RemittancesHouse Ethics Committee accuses Gaetz of 'regularly' paying for sex, including with 17-year-old girl WASHINGTON (AP) — The House Ethics Committee has accused Matt Gaetz of “regularly” paying for sex, including with a 17-year-old girl, and purchasing and using illicit drugs as a member of Congress. The 37-page report was released Monday by the bipartisan panel after a nearly four-year investigation that helped sink his nomination for attorney general. The report includes explicit details of sex-filled parties and vacations that Gaetz took part in while representing Florida’s western panhandle. The congressional investigators conclude that he violated multiple state laws related to sexual misconduct while in office. Gaetz has denied all wrongdoing and he filed a lawsuit Monday trying to block the report’s release. Biden gives life in prison to 37 of 40 federal death row inmates before Trump can resume executions WASHINGTON (AP) — President Joe Biden is commuting the sentences of 37 of the 40 people on federal death row. He's converting their punishments to life imprisonment just weeks before Donald Trump, an outspoken proponent of expanding capital punishment, takes office. Biden says the commutations are consistent with a pause on executions put in place by his administration in cases other than terrorism and hate-motivated mass murder. Biden said he couldn't allow a new administration to resume executions. Trump will be sworn into office on Jan. 20. The president-elect has talked subjecting drug dealers and human smugglers to the death penalty. Luigi Mangione pleads not guilty to murder and weapons charges in UnitedHealthcare CEO's death NEW YORK (AP) — The man accused of fatally shooting the CEO of UnitedHealthcare has pleaded not guilty to murder and terror charges in a state case that will run parallel to his federal prosecution. The Manhattan district attorney formally charged Luigi Mangione last week with multiple counts of murder, including murder as an act of terrorism. Mangione's attorney complained during a brief hearing Monday that statements coming from New York’s mayor would make it tough for him to receive a fair trial. Mangione was shackled and seated in a Manhattan court when he leaned over to a microphone to enter his not guilty plea. Nissan and Honda to attempt a merger that would create the world's No. 3 automaker TOKYO (AP) — Japanese automakers Nissan and Honda have announced plans to work toward a merger that would catapult them to a top position in an industry in the midst of tectonic shifts as it transitions away from its reliance on fossil fuels. The two companies said they signed an agreement on integrating their businesses on Monday. Smaller Nissan alliance member Mitsubishi Motors agreed to join the talks. News of a possible merger surfaced earlier this month. Japanese automakers face a strong challenge from their Chinese rivals and Tesla as they make inroads into markets at home and abroad. Middle East latest: Israeli airstrikes on Gaza kill at least 20 people, Palestinian medics say Palestinian medics say Israeli airstrikes on the Gaza Strip have killed at least 20 people. One of the strikes overnight and into Monday hit a tent camp in the Muwasi area, an Israel-declared humanitarian zone, killing eight people, including two children. The Israeli military says it only strikes militants, accusing them of hiding among civilians. It said late Sunday that it had targeted a Hamas militant in the humanitarian zone. The war began when Hamas-led militants attacked southern Israel on Oct. 7, 2023, killing some 1,200 people, mostly civilians, and taking around 250 hostage. Israel’s air and ground offensive has killed over 45,200 Palestinians, according to Gaza’s Health Ministry. Trump again calls to buy Greenland after eyeing Canada and the Panama Canal WEST PALM BEACH, Fla. (AP) — First it was Canada, then the Panama Canal. Now, Donald Trump again wants Greenland. The president-elect is renewing calls he made during his first term for the U.S. to buy Greenland, the ice-covered semi-autonomous Danish territory. That's added to the list of allied countries he’s picking fights with, even before taking office on Jan. 20. Greenland insists it's not for sale and Trump's initial calls to purchase it in 2019 came to nothing. But his latest suggestion comes after the president-elect suggested the U.S. could retake control of the Panama Canal and that Canadians wanted their county to become the 51st U.S. state. Magdeburg mourns Christmas market attack victims as fears swirl of deeper German social divisions MAGDEBURG, Germany (AP) — Mourners are laying flowers near the scene of the deadly Christmas market attack as investigators puzzle over the motive of the suspect and his previous encounters with authorities are scrutinized. At the same time there are fears that the rampage could deepen divisions in German society. A church a short walk from the scene of the attack has become a central place of mourning since the suspect drove a car into the busy market on Friday evening and killed five people. Authorities have identified the suspect as a Saudi doctor who arrived in Germany in 2006 and had received permanent residency. They say he doesn't fit the usual profile of perpetrators of extremist attacks. Shohei Ohtani wins 3rd AP Male Athlete of the Year award, tying Michael Jordan for 1 shy of record LOS ANGELES (AP) — Shohei Ohtani has been named The Associated Press Male Athlete of the Year for the third time. That ties the two-way superstar with Michael Jordan, an athlete Ohtani followed while growing up in Japan. He trails only Lance Armstrong, Tiger Woods and LeBron James, who each won the award four times. Ohtani received 48 votes in balloting by 74 sports journalists from the AP and its members. He earned his third National League Most Valuable Player award after helping the Dodgers win their eighth World Series title. Ohtani hit 54 home runs and stole 59 bases as the first player with a 50-50 season. His dog, Decoy, became a celebrity, too, helping Ohtani deliver a ceremonial first pitch at a game. A Holy Year is about to start in Rome. Here's what you need to know VATICAN CITY (AP) — Pope Francis is formally inaugurating the 2025 Holy Year, reviving an ancient church tradition encouraging the faithful to make pilgrimages to Rome. At the start of Christmas Eve Mass on Tuesday, Francis will push open the Holy Door on St. Peter’s Basilica. It stay open throughout the year to allow the estimated 32 million pilgrims projected to visit Rome to pass through. The first Holy Year was called in 1300, and in recent times they are generally celebrated every 25 to 50 years. The last regular Jubilee was in 2000, when St. John Paul II ushered in the church’s third millennium. How faith communities can be welcoming of believers with disabilities this holiday season and beyond This holiday season, some religious congregations across the U.S. are holding events designed to be accommodating to and inclusive of people with intellectual and developmental disabilities. They range from a “Calm Christmas” in West Virginia to an inclusive Hanukkah in New Jersey. Many disabled people, advocates and families want more houses of worship to know that there are ways to fully incorporate and welcome people with these and other disabilities and their families — and not just during the holidays but year round.
Inter beats Como and closes gap at the top of Serie A while Bove back on Fiorentina sidelineBen Stokes has been ruled out of all cricket for at least three months due to a torn left hamstring. The injury occurred while bowling on day three of the third Test in England's recent 2-1 series victory over New Zealand. The 33-year-old will undergo surgery in January, just months after he was sidelined by an injury on the same hamstring earlier this year. "Something else to overcome...go on then," Stokes wrote on social media. "I've got so much more left in this tank and so much more blood, sweat and tears to go through for my team and this shirt. Trending "There's a reason I have a phoenix permanently inked on my body." Stokes missed out on four Tests after he was injured during The Hundred and has been ruled out of England's white-ball tour of India next year, as well as the Champions Trophy in Pakistan. Also See: Stream England cricket and more with NOW England homepage - news and views Listen to the Sky Sports Cricket Podcast Latest cricket videos and highlights Stokes had bowled 66.3 overs during the New Zealand away series - his most in a single series as captain. England's next Test is not until May 2025 when they face Zimbabwe at Trent Bridge. England will also face India at home in a five-match Test series during the summer before they attempt to regain the Ashes in Australia over the 2025/26 winter. Stokes was forced to watch the final stages of his side's 423-run thrashing by New Zealand in Hamilton from the sidelines and following their defeat he vowed to dig deep on his return from injury. "No, I ain't holding back," Stokes said after the series finale at Seddon Park. "I was obviously incredibly disappointed walking off the other day, I was very emotional about the whole thing. But you sleep on it, take the emotion out and realise that every time you walk out on the field as an athlete you're putting yourself at risk of injury. "I worked really hard to get myself in a position to play the role I did in this game and it's just sod's law that the first time in a while I feel like I'm young again something happens. "Every setback, I come back stronger. There's no doubt I'll be going away from here, working hard as I always do and getting myself back to where I was. That's my job." Hussain: England are diminished when Stokes can't bowl Please use Chrome browser for a more accessible video player Stokes' injury has raised concerns about whether he is fit enough to perform his duties as an all-rounder. "Because he is a captain and an all-rounder, he is so important to that team, but England are diminished when Stokes can't bowl and when he misses Test matches," said Nasser Hussain on Sky Sports News earlier this month. "I do think there needed to be a conversation in this Test match about him bowling the 37th over when he's just coming back from a serious hamstring injury. "Hamstring injuries at that age [33 years old] are recurring and you need him to be firing fit in the summer and next winter. "At some stage someone just needs to tap him on the shoulder and say: 'Look I think you've done your bit now. I think it's up to someone else just to carry a burden'. "The problem with England is that their other seamers were already also struggling and their speeds were down. "[Brydon] Carse was carrying niggles, [Gus] Atkinson's speeds were down and [Matthew] Potts was playing in his first game of the series." Stokes to miss start of big year for England England are due to play six Test matches at home before they head to Australia for the Ashes, with Stokes set to miss the start of an important year for England. The England skipper missed three Tests against Sri Lanka at home this year and one in Pakistan after tearing his hamstring playing for Northern Superchargers in The Hundred. One-off Test at home to Zimbabwe (May) Test series at home to India (June-July) The Ashes in Australia (November 2025-January 2026) Sky Sports+ has officially launched and will be integrated into Sky TV , streaming service NOW and the Sky Sports app , giving Sky Sports customers access to over 50 per cent more live sport this year at no extra cost. Find out more here.
CEO killer suspect: golden boy who soured on US health system
A musical inspired by viral Olympic breakdancer Raygun was shut down hours before it was due to open on Saturday, after lawyers representing the athlete threatened legal action, the show's creator said on social media. Steph Broadbridge, an Australian comedian who wrote and intended to star in "Raygun: The Musical," said in a video posted on Instagram that the breakdancer's "lawyers got in touch with the venue and threatened legal action." In its debut performance at Sydney venue Kinselas, the parody musical intended to retell the story of Australian breaker Rachael Gunn, widely known as Raygun, whose performance at the Paris Olympics spawned countless memes on social media as well as a backlash against her and the sport itself. The 37-year-old dancer's routine consisted of moves including a kangaroo hop, a backward roll and various contortions with her body while lying or crawling on the floor. She did not register a single point across her Olympic battles against breakers from the United States, France and Lithuania in August, losing 18-0 in all three rounds. "They were worried I was damaging her brand, which I would never do," said Broadbridge, adding: "They were very concerned that people would think that Rachael Gunn was affiliated with the musical. "I want to assure everyone that she will not be part of the show. She's very welcome to come; I would love for her to see it." Broadbridge said that anyone who had bought a ticket would be refunded their 10 Australian dollars ($6.45). The proceeds from the event were originally intended to be donated to the Women's and Girls Emergency Centre - a charity that supports women and children affected by homelessness, domestic violence and systemic disadvantage. She added that Gunn's lawyers trademarked the musical's poster, which featured a silhouette of the breakdancer's famous kangaroo hop and said she couldn't perform that dance as Gunn "owns" it. "That one did puzzle me - I mean, that's an Olympic-level dance. How would I possibly be able to do that without any formal breakdancing training?" Broadbridge said. The musical was advertised as including songs like "You May Be a B-girl But You'll Always Be an A-girl To Me," "I'm Breaking Down," and "I Would Have Won But I Pulled a Muscle," according to its Eventbrite listing. That listing now says the show is called "Breaking: The Musical." CNN has contacted Gunn's management team at the agency Born Bred for comment. In a statement to CNN affiliate 7news, the agency said that "Gunn's management and legal team is committed to protecting her intellectual property and ensuring that her brand remains strong and respected." "While we have immense respect for the credible work and effort that has gone into the development of the show, we must take necessary steps to safeguard Rachael's creative rights and the integrity of her work," it said. "This action is not intended to diminish the contributions of others, but rather to ensure her brand is properly represented and protected in all future endeavours." After the furor, Broadbridge apologized to Gunn for "any negativity" she had received as a result of the musical and told The Project that this was "supposed to be me trying to make you feel like the icon I believe that you can be in Australia." The-CNN-Wire & 2024 Cable News Network, Inc., a Warner Bros. Discovery Company. All rights reserved.The Global Sleep Tech Devices Market to Grow at a Significant CAGR of ~17% by 2030, etimates DelveInsight
CEO killer suspect: golden boy who soured on US health system
On paper, Luigi Mangione had it all: wealth, intellect, athleticism, good looks. But the child of a prominent Maryland family may have spurned it all in a spasm of violence, in a killing that has mesmerized Americans. The 26-year-old was arrested Monday and charged with the murder of Brian Thompson, a health insurance chief executive and father of two who was gunned down in Manhattan last week by someone who, evidence suggests, has endured his own debilitating health crises and grew angry with the privatized US medical system. The cold-blooded killing has laid bare the deep frustration many Americans feel toward the country's labyrinthine health care system: while many have condemned the shooting, others have praised Mangione as a hero. It has also prompted considerable interest in how a young engineer with an Ivy League education could have gone off the rails to commit murder. News of his capture at a Pennsylvania McDonald's triggered an explosion of online activity, with Mangione quickly amassing new followers on social media as citizen sleuths and US media tried to understand who he is. As Americans have looked for clues about a political ideology or potential motive, a photo on his X account (formerly Twitter) includes an X-ray of an apparently injured spine. Mangione lived in Hawaii in 2022 and, according to his former roommate R.J. Martin, suffered from back pain, and was hoping to strengthen his back. After a surfing lesson, Mangione was "in bed for about a week" because of the pain, Martin told CNN. Earlier this year, Martin said, Mangione confirmed he'd had back surgery and sent him photos of the X-rays. Police said the suspect carried a hand-written manifesto of grievances in which he slammed America's "most expensive health care system in the world." "He was writing a lot about his disdain for corporate America and in particular the health care industry," New York police chief detective Joseph Kenny told ABC. According to CNN, a document recovered when Mangione was arrested included the phrase "these parasites had it coming." Meanwhile, memes and jokes proliferated, many riffing on his first name and comparing him to the "Mario Bros." video game character Luigi. Many expressed at least partial sympathy, having had their own harrowing experiences with the US health care system. "Godspeed. Please know that we all hear you," wrote one user on Facebook. Mangione hails from the Baltimore area. His wealthy Italian-American family owns local businesses, including the Hayfields Country Club, according to local outlet the Baltimore Banner, and cousin Nino Mangione is a Maryland state delegate. A standout student, Luigi graduated at the top of his high school class in 2016. A former student who knew Mangione at the elite Gilman School told AFP the suspect struck him as "a normal guy, nice kid." "There was nothing about him that was off, at least from my perception," the person said. Mangione attended the prestigious University of Pennsylvania, where he completed both a bachelor's and master's degree in computer science by 2020, according to a university spokesperson. While at Penn, Mangione co-led a group of 60 undergraduates who collaborated on video game projects, as noted in a now-deleted university webpage. On Instagram Mangione shared snapshots of his travels, and shirtless images of himself flaunting a six-pack. X users have scoured Mangione's posts for potential motives. His header photo includes an X-ray of a spine with bolts attached. Finding a political ideology that fits neatly onto the right-left divide has proved elusive, though he had written a review of Ted Kaczynski's manifesto on online site Goodreads, calling it "prescient." Kaczynski, known as the Unabomber, carried out multiple bombings in the United States from 1978 to 1995, in a campaign he said was aimed at halting the advance of modern society and technology. Mangione has also linked approvingly to posts criticizing secularism as a harmful consequence of Christianity's decline, and retweeted posts on the impact mobile phones and social media have on mental health. ia/abo-mlm/nroRICHMOND - Mounties in Richmond, B.C., say a man has been arrested for allegedly uttering threats against police while livestreaming on a social media platform. RCMP say they received the complaint about the man on Friday morning as he stood outside Richmond City Hall. Police say officers flooded the area and made an arrest without any incident. Insp. Michael Cohee, with RCMP investigative services, says they commend the person who recognized the potential risk and called police. He says they take public safety and threats of violence “very seriously,” whether they are online or in person. Police haven’t said what charges are being considered but say the investigation is ongoing.Nationally, 2024 will go down as an important year for elections, with the incumbent presidential candidate running for re-election, then bowing out and his running mate taking his place, versus an opponent that the present candidate who dropped out defeated four years ago, who actually won the seat this year. Sounds quite confusing, but luckily, local elections were not. Or were they? 2024 saw many new faces replacing familiar ones in government, some due to resignations, some due to elections and some due to business decisions, such as at Tennova Healthcare-Cleveland. The hospital was purchased by Vitruvian Health in 2024, and with that purchase, a change in the CEO occurred. Jarrett Millsaps, who had taken over the helm of the hospital in January 2023, was replaced by Lisa Lovelace, the hospital’s first female CEO, and the hospital changed its name to Bradley Medical Center. (See related story in today’s Cleveland Daily Banner.) Though the name didn’t change, two local government entities did have some alterations, including the Cleveland City Council. Both Dale Hughes and Avery Johnson, longtime members of the council, decided not to run for reelection, and their open seats drew a fair amount of interest. When the votes were counted in May, political newcomers Dan Moore and Duane Goff tallied the most votes, and are now members of the council. Changes within the Charleston City Commission did not go quite as smoothly as Cleveland, but in the end, three new commissioners are now in place. The August election saw David Lattimore, Faye Callaway and Donna McDermott tallying the most votes among the eight candidates running for the three seats. McDermott had earlier in the year said she would not run for reelection, but changed her mind after talking with some of her constituents. She had served as mayor since the death of Walter Goode, and as commissioner for 24 years. She stated, once elected, it would be better for her not to continue to serve on the commission, so the three-member panel was missing a commissioner. Matt Wiley, who had tallied the fourth most votes in the election, was selected to fill that seat. Earlier in the year, McDermott had selected Brandy Bishop to serve as city manager and Scott Bonk as city recorder. Both served the city for several months until the election, at which time McDermott relieved Bishop of her duties, with Bonk also terminated. Another local change is actually a “district” change, as Stephen Hatchett was practically elected in March as the new 10th Judicial District Attorney General, defeating Shari Tayloe and Jeff Miller in the Republican primary. He had no opposition in August, so he was sworn in as District Attorney General in September. However, Hatchett asked to begin serving as DA prior to September, to take over the post that was then held by Tayloe. Tayloe had been appointed by Governor Lee to serve in that position until the 2024 election due to the resignation of Steve Crump. The chancery court decided not to allow Hatchett to begin serving until his scheduled swearing in occurred on Sept. 1. Though no changes occurred within the Bradley County Board of Education due to the 2024 election, one change happened afterward. Jeff Lovingood, who had been selected to serve in the 7th District school board seat left vacated due to the death of Jerry Frazier in December 2020, turned in his resignation in November. Lovingood, who served as senior associated pastor at First Baptist Church of Cleveland since 2015, had accepted a new ministry position in Birmingham, Alabama, with the Scott Dawson Evangelistic Association. The Bradley County Commission opened up the position to the public, and three individuals vied for the seat. On Dec. 16, Alan Smith, a banking advisor/consultant and adjunct professor business at Lee University, was chosen from the trio, and was sworn in that same day by County Mayor D. Gary Davis. The change in the school board was not the only adjustment in education in Cleveland and Bradley County in 2024. Following Russell Dyer’s resignation as director of Cleveland City Schools in late 2023, the city’s school board began a search for a new director, and narrowed that down to three individuals. Two of those were from outside the area (Tampa, Florida, and San Marcos, Texas), but the board decided to go with the local candidate: Jeff Elliott, who was serving as chief of staff for Cleveland City Schools at the time. Announcement of the choice of Elliott, a 30-year employee of the city school system, was made on May 7. Earlier in 2024, the Tennessee Board of Regents announced that Andrew White was chosen to be the next president of Cleveland State Community College. He became the eighth president of the school, relieving Ray Brooks, who had served as CSCC’s interim president since July 2023. White wasn’t the only new face at Cleveland State, as the school introduced its first K9 officer — Flex. The 17-month-old German Shorthair Pointer will join Deputy Chief Officer Tim Fowler to provide service to the school. One familiar face at CSCC has stepped down from one of his duties, but will remain at the school. Mike Policastro, who has coached the school’s baseball team, retired from that position, but will keep his athletic director job at CSCC. Susan Willcutt announced she would be retiring as finance director for Bradley County Schools in June, effective at the end of 2024. Ellen Smith will serve as interim director. Tammy Johnson announced her resignation as executive director/CEO at Habitat for Humanity of Cleveland in November, but said she will stay at the non-profit organization for a few months in 2025 to help with the selection of a new director. She had served in that position since 2017. In Johnson’s case, her husband had accepted a new job in Alabama which precipitated the move. A new job also led Mike Garren to resign as director at the Bradley County Emergency Medical Service in April to accept a position with the Hamilton County EMS. His replacement was someone the department was familiar with, as Adam Lewis, who serves as assistant to the Bradley County mayor, added that position to his list of duties, and has received praise from BCEMS employees as well as others for the job he has been doing since. Chris Bates moved up from the ranks of firefighter to become the new chief of the Cleveland Fire Department in February. He replaced Bobby Gaylor, who had served as chief since August 2021. Bates has been with the fire department for 28 years, and was serving as fire marshal when chosen as chief. Keith McAfee, who has previously served with the U.S. Marine Corps and the Federal Aviation Administration at the Chattanooga Airport, is now the new director of operations at the Cleveland Regional Jetport. He was chosen to head operations there in November.
