Clay scores 16, Morehead State defeats Kentucky Christian 86-63Groom tracks his trading graph amid ceremony. Internet says 'wedding expenses covered'
NoneHow Much Does A Cessna Citation Longitude Cost To Purchase?Wireless Medical Device Connectivity Market Analysis By Top Keyplayers - Baxter, Bridge-Tech, Cerner Corporation, Cisco Systems, Digi International, General Electric, Hill-Rom Services, Iatric Systems, Infosys Limited, Koninklijke Philips N.V., Lantronix,The advancement of Point of Sale (POS) systems is transforming small business operations and their future in the global marketplace. Clover, the developer of the largest open-architecture point-of-sale solutions, has been at the forefront of this movement. Merchant services pioneer Slice is evolving the company’s capacity to power small businesses by offering Clover POS systems alongside attractive benefits like unlimited 0% processing, and 24/7 customer service through the SliceCare application, all for a flat monthly fee. Modern small businesses are relying on technology now more than ever to reduce costs and optimize customer experiences. Implementing cutting-edge technology can offer a suite of benefits ranging from streamlined employee management to omnichannel integration and data-driven reporting. Today’s POS systems, which were once only capable of simple transaction processing offer a host of services to take a business to the next level. Clover’s POS systems have garnered praise from leading retailers for their inventory management, customer relationship management, and more. Slice has released exclusive apps that accommodate popular contactless payment solutions and enable convenient QR technology to drive self-service experiences among other improvements. This technology offers a wealth of opportunities for the average small business to tap into greater profitability, but innovation generally comes at a cost. Many small businesses are hesitant to adopt new technology because of high prices, training requirements, and an underlying fear of modernization. However, retail technology reports are urging small businesses to embrace change as consumers demand more convenient, tech-driven shopping experiences. The top five trends poised to take hold in the coming years include legacy system modernization, AI, omnichannel experiences, augmented shopping, and voice commerce. These shifts may seem like a burden to small businesses operating on a shoestring budget, but they offer companies an opportunity to drive value creation while lowering their overhead costs. Legacy retail technology systems are outdated, incompatible with new programs, and lack scalability. This prevents companies from gaining an edge over mounting competition. Technology heightens customer experiences, improving transaction times, personalization, inventory costs, and reputation. These added efficiencies can foster greater customer loyalty and sustainable growth. Slice, a merchant services provider leveraging Clover POS systems to empower small businesses, testifies to the impact of technology on their clients’ bottom line. “Harnessing the power of technology helps small businesses lower labor, inventory, and operating costs, while also building a modern company image that attracts young, tech-savvy consumers,” says Slice CEO Alex Groyzburg. As a leading provider of innovative services like zero-cost credit card processing, Slice has crafted novel solutions to the longstanding challenges small businesses face. The company, which values long-term partnership over profit, stimulates American entrepreneurship by providing best-in-class Clover POS systems and other comprehensive services at a fixed monthly price. The company takes Clover’s powerful architecture a step further with features competitors lack. Around-the-clock customer support, unlimited 0% processing, lifetime price guarantees, and next-day replacements are just a few of the perks of working with Slice. Slice helps clients go beyond the basics, addressing current challenges and offering impressive tools anticipating future needs. The company shatters obstacles to small business growth through app integrations like free QR menu creation and personalization, and self-service kiosks. For small enterprises looking to reduce their labor costs, Slice provides tailored options to instantly connect customer orders to outsourced delivery teams. These services are a powerful way for small businesses to boost their credibility, increase sales, and better compete in an increasingly digital marketplace. Small businesses represent 99.9% of all American businesses. They employ millions of people, providing them with a source of income and fulfillment. Their existence fuels the creation of innovative products and services and allows individuals to build wealth and give back to local communities. Without robust technical integrations, small businesses bring a sliver of the positive impact they’re capable of to the world. Women, minorities, and immigrants are some of the most common small business owners. These groups play a vital role in strengthening local economies, creating more jobs, and lowering taxes. Outside of financial benefits, small businesses enhance community connections and shape the unique character of different cities. When small businesses succeed, these wins translate to entrepreneurship that improves local development and quality of life. Slice , who donates monthly to various charities and funds local development initiatives, is rewriting the future of American small businesses through leading digital transformations. “Small businesses are the backbone of the global economy. They’re your favorite coffee shop, stationery store, or local bar, that goes the extra mile to make you feel valued. Despite their generosity and vital function in our society, it’s hard for them to access technology that’s affordable and effective. Slice is working to change that,” says Alex.
One week into a new Syria, rebels aim for normalcy and Syrians vow not to be silent again DAMASCUS (AP) — A transformation has started to take place in the week since the unexpected overthrow of Syria’s President Bashar Assad. Suddenly in charge, the rebels have been met with a mix of excitement, grief and hope. And so far the transition has been surprisingly smooth. Reports of reprisals, revenge killings and sectarian violence are minimal, looting and destruction has been quickly contained. But there are a million ways it could go wrong. Syria is broken and isolated after five decades of Assad family rule. Families have been torn apart by war, former prisoners are traumatized, and tens of thousands of detainees remain missing. The economy is wrecked, poverty is widespread, inflation and unemployment are high. Corruption seeps through daily life. Christians in Syria mark country's transformation with tears as UN envoy urges an end to sanctions DAMASCUS, Syria (AP) — In churches across long-stifled Syria, Christians have marked the first Sunday services since Bashar Assad’s ouster in an air of transformation. Some were in tears, others clasped their hands in prayer. The U.N. envoy for Syria is calling for a quick end to Western sanctions as the country’s new leaders and regional and global powers discuss the way forward. The Syrian government has been under sanctions by the United States, the European Union and others for years as a result of Assad’s brutal response to what began as peaceful anti-government protests in 2011 and spiraled into civil war. Israel will close its Ireland embassy over Gaza tensions as Palestinian death toll nears 45,000 DEIR AL-BALAH, Gaza Strip (AP) — Israel says it will close its embassy in Ireland as relations deteriorate over the war in Gaza, where Palestinian medical officials say new Israeli airstrikes have killed over 30 people including children. Israel's decision to close the embassy came in response to what Israel’s foreign minister has described as Ireland's “extreme anti-Israel policies.” Ireland earlier announced that it would recognize a Palestinian state. And the Irish cabinet last week decided to formally intervene in South Africa’s case against Israel at the International Court of Justice, which accuses Israel of committing genocide in Gaza. The Palestinian death toll in the war is approaching 45,000. The GOP stoked fears of noncitizens voting. Cases in Ohio show how rhetoric and reality diverge AKRON, Ohio (AP) — Ohio's Republican secretary of state and attorney general sought to reassure voters before the November election that the state's elections were being vigorously protected against the possibility of immigrants voting illegally. That push coincided with a national Republican messaging strategy warning that potentially thousands of ineligible voters would be voting. The officials' efforts in Ohio led to charges against just six noncitizens in a state with 8 million registered voters. That outcome and the stories of some of those now facing charges show the gap both in Ohio and across the United States between the rhetoric about noncitizen voting and the reality that it's rare and not part of a coordinated scheme to throw elections. South Korean leaders seek calm after Yoon is impeached SEOUL, South Korea (AP) — South Korea’s opposition leader has offered to work with the government to ease the political tumult, a day after the opposition-controlled parliament voted to impeach conservative President Yoon Suk Yeol over a short-lived attempt to impose martial law. Liberal Democratic Party leader Lee Jae-myung, whose party holds a majority in the National Assembly, urged the Constitutional Court to rule swiftly on Yoon’s impeachment and proposed a special council for policy cooperation between the government and parliament. Yoon’s powers have been suspended until the court decides whether to remove him from office or reinstate him. If Yoon is dismissed, a national election to choose his successor must be held within 60 days. Storms across US bring heavy snow, dangerous ice and a tornado in California OMAHA, Neb. (AP) — Inclement weather has plagued areas of the U.S. in the first half of the weekend, with dangerous conditions including heavy snow, a major ice storm and unusual tornado activity. An ice storm beginning Friday created treacherous driving conditions across Iowa and eastern Nebraska. More than 33 inches of snow was reported near Orchard Park, New York, which is often a landing point for lake-effect snow. On Saturday, a tornado touched down in Scotts Valley, California, causing damage and several injuries. In San Francisco, a storm damaged trees and roofs and prompted a tornado warning, which was a first for a city that has not experienced a tornado since 2005. Small businesses say cautious shoppers are seeking 'cozy' and 'festive' this holiday season With a late Thanksgiving, the holiday shopping season is five days shorter than last year, and owners of small retail shops say that people have been quick to snap up holiday décor early, along with gifts for others and themselves. Cozy items like sweaters are popular so far. Businesses are also holding special events to get shoppers in the door. But there’s little sense of the freewheeling spending that occurred during the pandemic. Overall, The National Retail Federation predicts retail sales in November and December will rise between 2.5% and 3.5% compared with same period a year ago. US agencies should use advanced technology to identify mysterious drones, Schumer says After weeks of fear and bewilderment about the drones buzzing over parts of New York and New Jersey, U.S. Sen. Chuck Schumer is urging the federal government to deploy better drone-tracking technology to identify and ultimately stop the airborne pests. The New York Democrat is calling on the Department of Homeland Security to immediately deploy advanced technology to identify and track drones back to their landing spots. That is according to briefings from his office. Federal authorities have said that the drones do not appear to be linked to foreign governments. West Africa regional bloc approves exit timeline for 3 coup-hit member states ABUJA, Nigeria (AP) — West Africa’s regional bloc ECOWAS has approved an exit timeline for three coup-hit nations. It comes after a nearly yearlong process of mediation to avert the unprecedented disintegration of the grouping. The president of the ECOWAS Commission, Omar Touray, said in a statement: “The authority decides to set the period from 29 January, 2025 to 29 July 2025 as a transitional period and to keep ECOWAS doors open to the three countries during the transition period." In a first in the 15-nation bloc’s nearly 50 years of existence, the military juntas of Niger, Mali and Burkina Faso announced in January that they decided to leave ECOWAS. Pope Francis makes 1st papal visit to France's Corsica awash in expressions of popular piety AJACCIO, Corsica (AP) — Pope Francis on the first papal visit ever to the French island of Corsica on Sunday called for a dynamic form of laicism, promoting the kind of popular piety that distinguishes the Mediterranean island from secular France as a bridge between religious and civic society. The one-day visit to Corsica’s capital Ajaccio, birthplace of Napoleon, on Sunday is one of the briefest of his papacy beyond Italy’s borders, just about nine hours on the ground, including a 40-minute visit with French President Emmanuel Macron. It is the first papal visit ever to the island, which Genoa ceded to France in 1768 and is located closer to the Italian mainland than France.Over 20,000 jobs for working families are at risk in California’s Inland Empire. The reason? Fallout from a regulation raising concerns amongst businesses, labor groups, government officials, and even environmental advocates . Let’s take a step back. Founded over 50 years ago, the California Air Resources Board (CARB) has been a world leader in air pollution control, smog reduction, and climate science. And the air across Southern California is better for it. However, CARB’s new “In-Use Locomotive Regulation,” mandating railroads like Union Pacific and BNSF set aside hundreds of millions of dollars today for the technology of the future, risks undermining this precarious balance. While the goal of reducing emissions is commendable, the technology required to meet this mandate is not yet commercially viable to move freight across the country. BNSF has said that its planned $1.5 billion investment in the Barstow International Gateway (BIG) is in jeopardy if the regulation moves forward. As a result, this regulation could jeopardize over 20,000 direct and indirect jobs in the high desert. BNSF plans to develop the 4,500-acre Barstow rail yard, intermodal facility and warehouses for transloading freight project in the next few years, creating thousands of jobs and reducing truck miles traveled from the 130-mile trip from the ports to the Inland Empire along the Interstate 15 corridor. The project would also reduce vehicle miles traveled up and down the Cajon Pass from high desert residents who would have job opportunities closer to home. However, the costs of complying with the regulation and transitioning to non-existent technology would divert capital and resources from railroads, threatening the viability of significant investments like BIG. The potential loss of the BIG project would deal a significant blow to the local economy, particularly to the working families in the region. Moreover, over 86,000 businesses and one in nine jobs in Southern California connected to the San Pedro Bay Port Complex depend on efficient rail connections. Maintaining these connections is essential for the region’s growth and stability and we cannot afford increased traffic congestion and carbon emissions from continuing to force freight onto highways. Related Articles Commentary | A roadmap for healthcare reform in the Trump era Commentary | Californians deserve real solutions, not yet another Newsom vanity project Commentary | Biden wanted to be a transformative historical figure. Instead, he will be a footnote. Commentary | As Los Angeles prepares for Olympics, transportation money gets shuffled toward fiber network Commentary | Democrats welcome Trump ‘the fascist’ with open arms Freight rail, which is responsible for 40 percent of U.S. long-distance freight but only 1.7% of transportation emissions, is one of our most efficient means of moving goods. BIG is also touted to be a state-of-the-art answer to many of the regional and national supply chain issues we’ve all felt over the last several years as our ports have been winning back trade from importers because they are rail connected. While the goals of CARB’s locomotive rule are aligned with our shared commitment to addressing climate change, the regulation’s timing and feasibility are out of step with current technological realities. Our organizations agree with CARB on this: we see a path forward for zero emissions locomotives; we need to convene to align timing, technology, and transition. As Californians, we understand the urgency of transitioning to a zero-emission future, but we must also ensure that our policies support both environmental and economic sustainability. By aligning climate goals with technological capabilities, we can protect jobs, support economic growth, and continue to lead in the fight against climate change while maintaining good jobs for working families in our region. Jon Switalski is the executive director of the Rebuild SoCal Partnership. Sarah Wiltfong is the chief public policy and advocacy officer at the Supply Chain Council
The much-anticipated Minecraft 1.22 update is rumored to bring a revolutionary twist to the iconic sandbox game, fusing virtual creativity with augmented reality (AR) capabilities. This blend of reality and gaming promises to redefine player interaction with sandbox environments and looks set to be a game-changer in the world of digital engagement. Minecraft 1.22 will reportedly integrate AR into the gameplay, allowing players to project their virtual creations into the real world. Imagine building a fortress in your backyard or designing intricate pixel art right in your living room. With this new technology, users will have the ability to not only visualize but also physically navigate through their Minecraft worlds, creating a more immersive gaming experience. Furthermore, this update is predicted to introduce sophisticated environmental interaction . The game could respond to real-world weather conditions, time of day, and other environmental factors, making the virtual environments mimic reality even more closely. This feature hints at Minecraft’s step toward creating a dynamic and responsive game world. This leap-forward in Minecraft highlights a trend seen across the gaming industry, where developers aim to merge the boundaries between the digital and physical worlds. Such technological advancements could set a new precedent for the way gamers interact with their virtual environments, pushing the limits of imagination and creativity. As Minecraft 1.22 potentially propels the game into a new era of interactive realism, players and industry watchers alike are excited to see how this update might shape the future of gaming. Keep your eyes peeled for further developments in this exciting virtual adventure! Minecraft 1.22: How Augmented Reality Will Transform Your Gaming Experience The upcoming Minecraft 1.22 update is set to revolutionize the gaming landscape by integrating cutting-edge Augmented Reality (AR) technologies. As anticipation builds, here’s what this fusion of virtual creativity and real-world interaction could mean for millions of avid Minecraft players. Augmented Reality Enhancements Minecraft 1.22 is expected to allow players to project their virtual constructs into the real world, offering a seamless blend of gaming and reality. This new capability will enable players to engage with their digital creations in their physical environment, transforming ordinary spaces into dynamic, interactive playgrounds. Imagine projecting your latest Minecraft build right onto your bedroom floor or backyard—an innovation that blurs the line between fiction and reality. Environmental Interaction Features Beyond its AR capabilities, the update is also anticipated to introduce advanced environmental interaction features. The game could adapt to real-world conditions like changes in weather, time, and other environmental elements, offering an immersive experience that reacts dynamically to the player’s surroundings. This evolution in gameplay could allow for a unique, responsive interaction that adapts Minecraft worlds more coherently with real life. Pros and Cons of AR Integration # Pros: – Immersive Gameplay: Integration with the real world promises unparalleled immersion, making virtual interactions feel tangibly real. – Enhanced Creativity: Players can explore and interact with their builds in a three-dimensional space, expanding creative possibilities. – Dynamic Interactions: Real-world conditions affecting gameplay could introduce unique challenges and experiences. # Cons: – Technical Limitations: High-performance device requirements could limit accessibility for some players. – Implementation Complexity: Real-world AR projection may face operational challenges, such as aligning virtual creations with physical geography. Anticipated Market Impact and Trends This update could set a transformative trend in the gaming industry, pushing other developers to explore similar integrations of augmented reality in their games. As technology progresses, this could redefine not only how games are played, but also how they are designed—merging digital experiences into everyday life. Future Projections With the continuous evolution of AR technology, future updates might see more sophisticated interactions and controls, making games like Minecraft not just a pastime, but a part of everyday life and even education. Expect future iterations to enhance collaborative features, making real-world multiplayer interactions more engaging and educational. As we await the launch of Minecraft 1.22, its potential to reshape digital engagement is clear. For those interested in the cross-section of gaming and extended reality, this could be a transformative moment. For more updates and insights into innovations in gaming, visit the official Minecraft website .Earlier this year, before the fate of the 2024 presidential election was sealed, former President Donald Trump embarked on a campaign trail that would take him all over the US, including Pennsylvania, where he served fries at McDonald’s. In a memo following Trump’s visit, McDonald’s made it clear that the politician was not invited to visit the Feasterville-Trevose franchise location by the company. “McDonald’s does not endorse candidates for elected office and that remains true in this race for the next President,” it stated. “We are not red or blue—we are golden.” But when you consider the now president-elect’s diet, it’s unsurprising that he chose to visit one of the fast-food giant’s restaurants during his campaign tour. According to several reports, he eats McDonald’s most days. In fact, in 2023, Trump’s son Donald Trump Jr. said on his Triggered podcast that “no one knows” the McDonald’s menu better than his father. He added: “No one probably eats more of it, per capita.” Beyond McDonald’s, Trump is known for eating a variety of fast food. In 2016, for example, he posted a picture of himself on X, then known as Twitter, eating fried chicken from KFC with a knife and fork. He also enjoys Doritos, pizza, steak and chips, and copious amounts of Diet Coke, according to one recent article from The Telegraph , in which reporter Gareth Davies describes his efforts trying to eat like the president-elect for one week. @realDonaldTrump | X RELATED: The Cabbage Soup Diet: Quick Fix or Health Risk? In the piece, Davies labels Trump’s diet “a bland bonanza of beige” and “that of a child.” He says that at first, he was excited to have an excuse to eat lots of fast food, but quickly realized he’d made “a horrible mistake.” It wasn’t just that eating that much McDonald’s and KFC day after day was boring, but the diet–which is devoid of nutritional value— seriously started to impact his health. “My hands, for the entire week, were always cold. And that’s not something I ever suffer with,” he said. “I was also barely going to the toilet, and when I was, I really had to try,” he added. Davies also noted that his urine “was like squeezy honey” and “clearly so unhealthy.” He finished the article by saying “Frankly, I don’t quite understand how Donald Trump is still alive.” Why following Trump’s diet is risky for your health According to Sapna Peruvemba, MS, RDN, a vegan registered dietitian and founder of Health by Sapna , Trump’s reliance on fast food means that his diet is devoid of essential nutrients. It’s also high in ultra-processed foods and saturated fats and contains next to no fiber at all. In the short term, she notes that this can lead to bloating and constipation (as Davies describes), as well as acne, brittle nails, hair loss, and brain fog. “Nutrient deficiencies can sap your energy and dull your focus,” she explains. Canva In the long term, however, this type of diet may have serious consequences. “Heart disease, type 2 diabetes, metabolic syndrome, and cancer risks go up,” she says, before adding that “studies show a diet high in ultra-processed foods can raise the risk of premature death by 31 percent.” Last year, one study from the University of Bristol found that people who consumed more ultra-processed foods like potato chips, candy, fizzy drinks, and hot dogs had a higher risk of head, neck, and esophageal cancers. Processed meats, like those found in fast-food burgers and nuggets, for example, have also been linked with a higher risk of everything from heart disease to diabetes to dementia . Joyce N. Boghosian | Official White House Photograph To wash down all of the fast food, Trump also tends to drink Diet Coke instead of water. In fact, he could be drinking up to 12 cans a day, reports suggest. According to Peruvemba, this habit could also have some major health consequences. “Each can contains around 200 milligrams of the controversial sweetener aspartame,” she says. “According to the FDA’s acceptable daily intake, you’d need to hit 10 cans a day to exceed the safe limit.” She adds that regular Diet Coke consumption is also linked with a higher risk of conditions like metabolic syndrome and type 2 diabetes. “It may not pack sugar, but its metabolic impact is still a concern,” she says. Plus, it’s also not great for hydration. “Sodium and caffeine can act like hydration hijackers, pulling water from your body rather than replenishing it,” she adds (which likely explains Davies’ “squeezy honey” urine). Peruvemba is keen to point out that there isn’t anything wrong with occasionally eating fast food or drinking Diet Coke, it’s about the bigger picture. “A burger here or fries there won’t derail your health if most of your diet is packed with fruits, veggies, legumes, and whole grains. It’s not about being perfect,” she says. But Trump isn’t alone. Research suggests that most Americans follow the Standard American Diet, which is low in fruits and vegetables and high in salt, saturated fat, and ultra-processed foods. For some, this is due to a lack of access to fresh, nutritious food. The US is home to more than 6,500 food deserts , which are areas that are severely lacking in places to buy healthy affordable food, but have plenty of processed and fast food on offer. However, for others, like billionaire Trump, it’s about personal choice or unhealthy habits. Canva BECOME A VEGNEWS VIP : Get exclusive product deals, freebies, and perks galore! Peruvemba says that even eating a few more healthy plant-based foods at first can make a big difference to health. “Even adding just one serving of fruits or vegetables per day can start to fill nutritional gaps,” she says. “This small addition packs fiber , phytochemicals, vitamins, and minerals into a diet that’s otherwise lacking. And there’s a ripple effect—when you eat more plants, you naturally eat less of the other stuff.” It’s about “progress, not perfection,” says Peruvemba. And one more final piece of advice: when it comes to diet, don’t look to the president-elect for guidance. “It’s the dietary equivalent of a political scandal,” she notes. “High drama, no balance.” DON'T MISS OUT : Get breaking news, recipes, and our weekly vegan deal by signing up for our FREE VegNewsletter Ariana Grande’s Diet Isn’t Wicked: Here’s What She Eats, From Smoothies to Edamame Pond Water Smoothies: Inside Princess Kate’s Favorite Green Drink Inside Demi Moore’s Raw Vegan Diet: Is It Safe? JUMP TO ... Latest News | Recipes | Guides | Health | Shop Charlotte is a VegNews editor and writer based in sunny Southsea on England's southern coast.
One week into a new Syria, rebels aim for normalcy and Syrians vow not to be silent again DAMASCUS (AP) — A transformation has started to take place in the week since the unexpected overthrow of Syria’s President Bashar Assad. Suddenly in charge, the rebels have been met with a mix of excitement, grief and hope. And so far the transition has been surprisingly smooth. Reports of reprisals, revenge killings and sectarian violence are minimal, looting and destruction has been quickly contained. But there are a million ways it could go wrong. Syria is broken and isolated after five decades of Assad family rule. Families have been torn apart by war, former prisoners are traumatized, and tens of thousands of detainees remain missing. The economy is wrecked, poverty is widespread, inflation and unemployment are high. Corruption seeps through daily life. Christians in Syria mark country's transformation with tears as UN envoy urges an end to sanctions DAMASCUS, Syria (AP) — In churches across long-stifled Syria, Christians have marked the first Sunday services since Bashar Assad’s ouster in an air of transformation. Some were in tears, others clasped their hands in prayer. The U.N. envoy for Syria is calling for a quick end to Western sanctions as the country’s new leaders and regional and global powers discuss the way forward. The Syrian government has been under sanctions by the United States, the European Union and others for years as a result of Assad’s brutal response to what began as peaceful anti-government protests in 2011 and spiraled into civil war. Israel will close its Ireland embassy over Gaza tensions as Palestinian death toll nears 45,000 DEIR AL-BALAH, Gaza Strip (AP) — Israel says it will close its embassy in Ireland as relations deteriorate over the war in Gaza, where Palestinian medical officials say new Israeli airstrikes have killed over 30 people including children. Israel's decision to close the embassy came in response to what Israel’s foreign minister has described as Ireland's “extreme anti-Israel policies.” Ireland earlier announced that it would recognize a Palestinian state. And the Irish cabinet last week decided to formally intervene in South Africa’s case against Israel at the International Court of Justice, which accuses Israel of committing genocide in Gaza. The Palestinian death toll in the war is approaching 45,000. The GOP stoked fears of noncitizens voting. Cases in Ohio show how rhetoric and reality diverge AKRON, Ohio (AP) — Ohio's Republican secretary of state and attorney general sought to reassure voters before the November election that the state's elections were being vigorously protected against the possibility of immigrants voting illegally. That push coincided with a national Republican messaging strategy warning that potentially thousands of ineligible voters would be voting. The officials' efforts in Ohio led to charges against just six noncitizens in a state with 8 million registered voters. That outcome and the stories of some of those now facing charges show the gap both in Ohio and across the United States between the rhetoric about noncitizen voting and the reality that it's rare and not part of a coordinated scheme to throw elections. South Korean leaders seek calm after Yoon is impeached SEOUL, South Korea (AP) — South Korea’s opposition leader has offered to work with the government to ease the political tumult, a day after the opposition-controlled parliament voted to impeach conservative President Yoon Suk Yeol over a short-lived attempt to impose martial law. Liberal Democratic Party leader Lee Jae-myung, whose party holds a majority in the National Assembly, urged the Constitutional Court to rule swiftly on Yoon’s impeachment and proposed a special council for policy cooperation between the government and parliament. Yoon’s powers have been suspended until the court decides whether to remove him from office or reinstate him. If Yoon is dismissed, a national election to choose his successor must be held within 60 days. Storms across US bring heavy snow, dangerous ice and a tornado in California OMAHA, Neb. (AP) — Inclement weather has plagued areas of the U.S. in the first half of the weekend, with dangerous conditions including heavy snow, a major ice storm and unusual tornado activity. An ice storm beginning Friday created treacherous driving conditions across Iowa and eastern Nebraska. More than 33 inches of snow was reported near Orchard Park, New York, which is often a landing point for lake-effect snow. On Saturday, a tornado touched down in Scotts Valley, California, causing damage and several injuries. In San Francisco, a storm damaged trees and roofs and prompted a tornado warning, which was a first for a city that has not experienced a tornado since 2005. Small businesses say cautious shoppers are seeking 'cozy' and 'festive' this holiday season With a late Thanksgiving, the holiday shopping season is five days shorter than last year, and owners of small retail shops say that people have been quick to snap up holiday décor early, along with gifts for others and themselves. Cozy items like sweaters are popular so far. Businesses are also holding special events to get shoppers in the door. But there’s little sense of the freewheeling spending that occurred during the pandemic. Overall, The National Retail Federation predicts retail sales in November and December will rise between 2.5% and 3.5% compared with same period a year ago. US agencies should use advanced technology to identify mysterious drones, Schumer says After weeks of fear and bewilderment about the drones buzzing over parts of New York and New Jersey, U.S. Sen. Chuck Schumer is urging the federal government to deploy better drone-tracking technology to identify and ultimately stop the airborne pests. The New York Democrat is calling on the Department of Homeland Security to immediately deploy advanced technology to identify and track drones back to their landing spots. That is according to briefings from his office. Federal authorities have said that the drones do not appear to be linked to foreign governments. West Africa regional bloc approves exit timeline for 3 coup-hit member states ABUJA, Nigeria (AP) — West Africa’s regional bloc ECOWAS has approved an exit timeline for three coup-hit nations. It comes after a nearly yearlong process of mediation to avert the unprecedented disintegration of the grouping. The president of the ECOWAS Commission, Omar Touray, said in a statement: “The authority decides to set the period from 29 January, 2025 to 29 July 2025 as a transitional period and to keep ECOWAS doors open to the three countries during the transition period." In a first in the 15-nation bloc’s nearly 50 years of existence, the military juntas of Niger, Mali and Burkina Faso announced in January that they decided to leave ECOWAS. Pope Francis makes 1st papal visit to France's Corsica awash in expressions of popular piety AJACCIO, Corsica (AP) — Pope Francis on the first papal visit ever to the French island of Corsica on Sunday called for a dynamic form of laicism, promoting the kind of popular piety that distinguishes the Mediterranean island from secular France as a bridge between religious and civic society. The one-day visit to Corsica’s capital Ajaccio, birthplace of Napoleon, on Sunday is one of the briefest of his papacy beyond Italy’s borders, just about nine hours on the ground, including a 40-minute visit with French President Emmanuel Macron. It is the first papal visit ever to the island, which Genoa ceded to France in 1768 and is located closer to the Italian mainland than France.NASA has made its final two selections for its longstanding Explorers Program, which gives two teams of scientists the chance to advance their technology with $5 million in funding for the next year. Then in 2026, NASA will make their final decision as to which mission will have the chance to proceed with construction, for a launch in 2032. AXIS — the Advanced X-ray Imaging Satellite — a McGill-linked mission that uses sharp X-ray eyes to probe far into the universe, has been chosen as one of the two finalists. “We all came together around new technology being developed by one of our main instrument scientists to try to make a next-generation X-ray observatory. We do have observatories right now, in particular, the Chandra X-ray observatory is in space taking observations and so this is intended to be kind of its successor, the next thing that comes along and really helps push our field forward,” explained Daryl Haggard, a physics professor at McGill University. AXIS — the powerful X-ray satellite with an increased field of view — is meant to follow the legacy of NASA’s X-ray space telescope Chandra, which has been in space since 1999. “It’s going to allow us to probe into more of the, into the more distant universe, but also to find a lot of stars, young stars, dead stars, exploding stars, colliding stars, much, much better. So it’s going to be about 10 times more sensitive than the current Chandra X-ray mission,” said Samar Safi-Harb, a physics professor at the University of Manitoba. The X-ray probe developed by the AXIS team which uses lightweight mirrors, is best for studying exploding flaring or dying stars deep in the universe. “X-ray light probes something that’s extremely hot, hot gas, like that glowing gas in the supernova remnant Cassiopeia A. It’s glowing at millions of degrees. Or even higher temperatures. Okay, so it’s very hot gas,” said Safi-Harb. “And the reason we have hot gas is because we have these powerful explosions heating everything around them to extremely high temperatures. So they shine in x rates, right? So if we didn’t have x ray. Telescopes are sensitive to extra lights. We wouldn’t be able to detect them.” What’s most exciting about this year’s final selections by NASA is that they both have Canadian involvement, with the AXIS team being led by both Professor Haggard and Professor Safi-Harb. “I think it’s interesting to say that, I think there’s two of us, basically Daryl and myself, leading the Canadian participation in this very large collaboration. So that’s really, I mean, we feel both excited and privileged to be in that position. And we’re, of course, very thrilled that it got selected, which is great news for us also in Canada,” said Saif-Harb. Haggard adding, “This funding we have just put out a call to bring in more of the community and there are now hundreds like it was hugely popular so we now have you know working groups that are 300 people big and my guess is that those scientists are kind of they lean toward the younger generation so probably hundreds of trainees are now working together with us on the project.”
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“The best way to predict the future is to invent it.” - Alan Kay This sentiment captures the essence of Pakistan’s ongoing journey through a landscape marred by deep-seated corruption and significant economic challenges, reflected in its 2023 ranking of 133rd out of 180 countries on the Corruption Perceptions Index by Transparency International. This persistent issue of corruption, with an average rank of 113.04 since 1995, undermines the social contract between the government and its citizens, hampering trust in institutions and stalling progress. Furthermore, the country’s economic landscape is precarious, as illustrated by a GDP contraction of 0.2% in 2023, following a robust growth of 6.2% the previous year. This volatility highlights the direct impact of governance on economic performance, with historical data revealing a fluctuating growth rate that has often been undermined by cronyism and systemic corruption. Amid these challenges, the necessity for substantial fiscal policy reform is critical. Pakistan’s low tax-to-GDP ratio, one of the lowest in South Asia, reflects ongoing inefficiencies that hinder revenue generation, despite a slight increase from 0.8 percentage points between 2011 and 2022. The fluctuating ratios reported by the Federal Board of Revenue (FBR) indicate struggles with compliance and enforcement, essential for maximizing government revenues. While there have been positive developments, such as a 55% increase in foreign direct investment and remittances in 2024, these indicators are inconsistent and come with political and social costs. The pervasive issues of illegal economic activities, exemplified by smuggling and unauthorized spectrum usage, further illustrate the critical need for effective governance and a collaborative tax system to foster sustainable development. The failure of governance reflects Milton Friedman’s assertion about the essential relationship between control and freedom, as unregulated operations ultimately erode both economic and social sovereignty. Amid these challenges, the role of accountability becomes essential. The National Accountability Bureau (NAB) and Federal Investigation Agency (FIA) have been positioned as guardians against corruption, but their efficacy in addressing the ongoing crises remains under scrutiny. As former British Prime Minister William E. Gladstone aptly stated, “Justice delayed is justice denied.” This encapsulates the frustrations of a populace that yearns for swift and fair accountability mechanisms that can provide recourse against systemic injustices. Moreover, amendments made to the National Accountability Ordinance further complicate these narratives. As Socrates noted, “The unexamined life is not worth living”. The rule of law, conflict of interest, blurred vision about bona fide and mala fide, differentiation between economic activity and accountability and vague definition of criminalization of economic activity are the unexamined aspects of social and economic life, to say the least. However, the discretion given to the bureaucracy is posing a critical challenge to system of accountability, which has led to almost complete erosion of trust in institutions. The technological advancement, the intersection of governance and innovation presents a critical focus area for Pakistan’s transformation. Automation, when integrated effectively into administrative frameworks, holds the potential to drastically enhance operational efficiencies and reduce corruption. Furthermore, the public sector has made strides towards modernization through e-government initiatives designed to streamline operations and enhance service delivery. These efforts aim to bridge the chasm between governance and citizen engagement by facilitating greater transparency and reducing bureaucratic red tape. The possibilities here are substantial; as efficiency increases, so too does the capacity to combat corruption and promote accountability, echoing the sentiments of modern economists who advocate for the use of technology as a fundamental driver for economic growth. The evolution of tax collection methods, the reduction of human discretion in administrative processes, and the digitization of services can alter the prevailing narrative about inefficiencies deeply rooted in systemic practices particularly the use of AI in FBR, judicial system, law enforcement The algorisms will substitute the discretionary powers of executive without prejudice and bias. Hopefully, it will depoliticize and demilitarize the bureaucracy Though world is thinking of embarking upon journey of laying off its debts through cyber currency, Pakistan can also envision the long-term project parallel to it because Pakistan faces the existential challenge of circular debt, though it is a day dream but ‘I think, therefore I am,’ Rene Descartes claimed To truly effect a change, meaningful strategies must manifest that elevate the development and consequent happiness, which is fundamental right. Though the numbers in economy of Pakistan are vacillating but as Albert Einstein said, ’’not everything that can be counted counts not everything that counts can be counted“ it is more than a numbers game, that is; development, satisfaction, contentment and pursuit of happiness of common man for common good. This can only be achieved through objective, quantifiable, trustworthy new social contract, which is only possible through medium of technology that is universal truth defying the multiple truths of social world rationalizing contradictory phenomenon. This can help foster a culture of change that transcends individual interests and promotes collective aspirations. Plato eloquently reminded us that “The price good men pay for indifference to public affairs is to be ruled by evil men.” This cautionary reflection should resonate deeply, inspiring citizens and state to cultivate a commitment to common good. Copyright Business Recorder, 2024Subsplash Acquires Pulpit AI, an Innovative Platform Leveraging AI to Help Streamline Content Creation & Boost Sermon Engagement for ChurchesAfrica's high young unemployment rate continues to be one of the continent's most urgent problems In spite of the continent's immense potential, the unemployment rate among young people has soared The list spotlight South Africa at number one followed by Angola, Morocco, Ethiopia, Nigeria and others CHECK OUT: Education is Your Right! Don’t Let Social Norms Hold You Back. Learn Online with LEGIT. Enroll Now! Legit.ng journalist Zainab Iwayemi has 5-year-experience covering the Economy, Technology, and Capital Market . One of the most urgent issues confronting Africa today is the high prevalence of unemployment among young people. Young people's unemployment rates have skyrocketed despite the continent's enormous potential, which is marked by a wealth of natural resources and a young population. The unemployment rates in seven African countries are highlighted by data from Trading Economics. PAY ATTENTION: Follow us on Instagram - get the most important news directly in your favourite app! South Africa - 60.2% The youth unemployment rate in South Africa, which measures job-seekers between 15 and 24 years old, eased to 60.2% in the third quarter of 2024, compared to 60.8% in the previous period. Youth Unemployment Rate in South Africa averaged 56.23 percent from 2013 until 2024, reaching an all time high of 66.50 percent in the third quarter of 2021 and a record low of 48.80 percent in the fourth quarter of 2014. Read also CBN data shows money supply above N100 trillion amid cash scarcity in banks Angola - 56.4% Youth Unemployment Rate in Angola decreased to 56.40 % in the second quarter of 2024 from 63.50 % in the first quarter of 2024. Youth Unemployment Rate in Angola averaged 56.20 % from 2018 until 2024, reaching an all time high of 63.50 % in the first quarter of 2024 and a record low of 49.20 % in the second quarter of 2020. Morocco - 39.5% Youth Unemployment Rate in Morocco increased to 39.50 percent in the third quarter of 2024 from 36.10 percent in the second quarter of 2024. Youth Unemployment Rate in Morocco averaged 22.01 percent from 1999 until 2024, reaching an all time high of 39.50 percent in the third quarter of 2024 and a record low of 13.10 percent in the second quarter of 2006. Ethiopia - 27.2% Youth Unemployment Rate in Ethiopia increased to 27.20 percent in 2022 from 25.70 percent in 2020. Youth Unemployment Rate in Ethiopia averaged 24.33 percent from 2009 until 2022, reaching an all time high of 27.20 percent in 2022 and a record low of 22.00 percent in 2016. Read also More Nigerians secure POS terminals as new withdrawal, deposit charges emerge Cape Verde - 23.9% Youth Unemployment Rate in Cape Verde decreased to 23.90 percent in 2023 from 26 percent in 2022. Youth Unemployment Rate in Cape Verde averaged 29.85 percent from 2010 until 2023, reaching an all time high of 41.00 percent in 2016 and a record low of 21.30 percent in 2010. Rwanda - 18.8% Youth Unemployment Rate in Rwanda decreased to 18.80 percent in the third quarter of 2024 from 20.50 percent in the second quarter of 2024. Youth Unemployment Rate in Rwanda averaged 22.33 percent from 2019 until 2024, reaching an all time high of 29.80 percent in the fourth quarter of 2021 and a record low of 16.60 percent in the first quarter of 2024. Nigeria - 6.50% Youth Unemployment Rate in Nigeria decreased to 6.50 percent in the second quarter of 2024 from 8.40 percent in the first quarter of 2024. Youth Unemployment Rate in Nigeria averaged 21.40 percent from 2014 until 2024, reaching an all time high of 53.40 percent in the fourth quarter of 2020 and a record low of 6.50 percent in the second quarter of 2024. Read also Nigerian banks lose N42.33 billion in 6 months, data shows top fraud channels States with highest number of unemployed Legit.ng reported that according to the National Bureau of Statistics (NBS), Nigeria's unemployment rate increased from 5.0 in the third quarter of 2023 to 5.3% in the first quarter of 2024. The Federal Capital Territory (FCT), Abia , and Rivers states had the highest unemployment rates in Nigeria in 2023, according to the NBS data. According to the survey, Abia State has the highest unemployment rate (18.7%), followed by the FCT (14.1%) and Rivers (13.4%). PAY ATTENTION: Сheck out news that is picked exactly for YOU ➡️ find the “Recommended for you” block on the home page and enjoy! Source: Legit.ng
