jilibet s09 Brandon Ingram Injury Status – Pelicans vs. Raptors Injury Report November 27Dubai: Indian consulate issues new rules to repatriate expats’ remainsLODI, Calif., Dec. 03, 2024 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) -- Farmers & Merchants Bancorp (OTCQX: FMCB ) announced today that Deborah Skinner, Executive Vice President and Chief Administrative Officer, will be retiring effective December 31, 2024, after 24 years with Farmers & Merchants Bank of Central California. The Company previously announced her intention to retire back on September 9, 2024. Ms. Skinner will remain with the Company through year-end to assist with the transition. "On behalf of the entire team at FMCB and the Board of Directors, I want to thank Debbie for her leadership and dedication to our company,” said Kent A. Steinwert, Chairman, President and Chief Executive Officer of FMCB. "During her time with the Company, Debbie has been vital to the development and successful execution of our business operations and strategy. I also want to personally thank Debbie for being a trusted advisor to me and true business partner to our management team. We all wish her a happy and well-deserved retirement.” The Company also announced that Troy D. Harper will join the Company as its Executive Vice President and Chief Administrative Officer effective December 9, 2024. Mr. Harper brings over 30 years of operational expertise in financial services to FMCB, including more than 20 years in commercial and retail banking. Prior to joining FMCB, he was Executive Vice President, Chief Information & Operations Officer for HomeStreet Bank, where he led deposit, loan, and treasury management operations, IT, corporate real estate, and security. His career experience includes additional banking and operational roles at the FDIC, Pierce Commercial Bank, CGI Group, and Deloitte Consulting. He received a B.S. in finance and accounting management from Northeastern University. Mr. Harper will work closely with Ms. Skinner until her retirement at year-end to ensure a seamless transition. "As we continue to expand our organization, it's important that we add highly accomplished, talented, and experienced people to our executive leadership team. Troy brings a depth and breadth of operations and IT experience to the Company that will enrich the management team, while enabling us to execute successfully on our objectives in 2025 and beyond,” stated Mr. Steinwert. About Farmers & Merchants Bancorp Farmers & Merchants Bancorp, trades on the OTCQX under the symbol FMCB, and is the parent company of Farmers & Merchants Bank of Central California, also known as F&M Bank. Founded in 1916, F&M Bank is a locally owned and operated community bank, which proudly serves California through 33 convenient locations. F&M Bank is financially strong, with $5.4 billion in assets, and is consistently recognized as one of the nation's safest banks by national bank rating firms. The Bank has maintained a 5-Star rating from BauerFinancial for 34 consecutive years, longer than any other commercial bank in the State of California. Farmers & Merchants Bancorp has paid dividends for 89 consecutive years and has increased dividends for 59 consecutive years. As a result, Farmers & Merchants Bancorp is a member of a select group of only 56 publicly traded companies referred to as "Dividend Kings,” and is ranked 17 th in that group based on consecutive years of dividend increases. A "Dividend King” is a stock with 50 or more consecutive years of dividend increase. In August 2024, Farmers & Merchants Bancorp was named by Bank Director's Magazine as the #2 best performing bank in the nation across all asset categories in their annual "Ranking Banking” study of the top performing banks for 2023. Last year the Bank was named by Bank Director's Magazine as the #1 best performing bank in the nation across all asset categories in their annual "Ranking Banking” study of the top performing banks for 2022. In April 2024, F&M Bank was ranked 6 th on Forbes Magazine's list of "America's Best Banks" in 2023. Forbes' annual "America's Best Banks” list looks at ten metrics measuring growth, credit quality, profitability, and capital for the 2023 calendar year, as well as stock performance in the 12 months through March 18, 2024. In December 2023, F&M Bank was ranked 4 th on S&P Global Market Intelligence's "Top 50 List of Best-Performing Community Banks” in the US with assets between $3.0 billion and $10.0 billion for 2023. S&P Global Market Intelligence ranks financial institutions based on several key factors including financial returns, growth, and balance sheet risk profile. In October 2021, F&M Bank was named the "Best Community Bank in California” by Newsweek magazine. Newsweek's ranking recognizes those financial institutions that best serve their customers' needs in each state. This recognition speaks to the superior customer service the F&M Bank team members provide to its clients. F&M Bank is the 15 th largest bank lender to agriculture in the United States. F&M Bank operates in the mid-Central Valley of California, including Sacramento, San Joaquin, Solano, Stanislaus, and Merced counties and the east region of the San Francisco Bay Area, including Napa, Alameda and Contra Costa counties. F&M Bank was inducted into the National Agriculture Science Center's "Ag Hall of Fame” at the end of 2021 for providing resources, financial advice, guidance, and support to the agribusiness communities as well as to students in the next generation of agribusiness workforce. F&M Bank is dedicated to helping California remain the premier agricultural region in the world and will continue to work with the next generation of farmers, ranchers, and processors. F&M Bank remains committed to servicing the needs of agribusiness in California as has been the case since its founding over 108 years ago. F&M Bank offers a full complement of loan, deposit, equipment leasing and treasury management products to businesses, as well as a full suite of consumer banking products. The FDIC awarded F&M Bank the highest possible rating of "Outstanding" in their last Community Reinvestment Act ("CRA”) evaluation. Forward-Looking Statements This press release may contain certain forward-looking statements that are based on management's current expectations regarding the Company's financial performance. Forward-looking statements can be identified by the fact that they do not relate strictly to historical or current facts. They often include the words "believe,” "expect,” "intend,” "estimate” or words of similar meaning, or future or conditional verbs such as "will,” "would,” "should,” "could” or "may.” Forward-looking statements in this press release include, without limitation, statements regarding management team changes and their anticipated impact on the Company, and the Company's expansion and its ability to execute on strategic objectives. These forward-looking statements are subject to risks and uncertainties, many of which are outside of our control, and which could cause future events or results to be materially different from those stated or implied in this document. Many factors could cause actual future events to differ materially from the forward-looking statements in this press release, including but not limited to the risk factors and other important factors detailed in the Company's Form 10-K, Form 10-Qs, and various other securities law filings made periodically by the Company, copies of which are available from the Company's website. The Company undertakes no obligation to publicly update these forward-looking statements whether as a result of new information, future developments or otherwise, except as required by applicable law. For more information about Farmers & Merchants Bancorp and F&M Bank, visit fmbonline.com. Investor Relations Contact Farmers & Merchants Bancorp Bart R. Olson Executive Vice President and Chief Financial Officer Phone: 209-367-2485 [email protected]

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Donald Trump has threatened to seize the Panama Canal, revived calls to buy Greenland and joked about annexing Canada -- leaving the world guessing once again whether he is serious or not. By challenging the sovereignty of some of Washington's closest allies four weeks before he even returns to the Oval Office, the US-president elect has underscored his credentials as global disruptor-in-chief. His comments have renewed fears from his first term that Trump will end up being harsher on US friends than he is on adversaries like Russia and China. But there are also suspicions that billionaire tycoon Trump is looking for leverage as part of the "art of the deal" -- and that the former reality television star is grabbing headlines to look strong at home and abroad. "It's hard to tell how much of this he really wants, and how much is the latest soundbite that will be heard around the world," said Frank Sesno, a professor at George Washington University and former White House correspondent. "He puts other leaders in position of having to figure out what is literal and what is not," he told AFP. The idea of buying Greenland is not a new one for Trump. He also raised the prospect of purchasing the vast strategic island, a Danish territory, during his first term in office. He revived his push over the weekend when naming his ambassador to Copenhagen, saying the "ownership and control of Greenland is an absolute necessity" for US national security. But he received the same answer this time as he did then, with Greenland's Prime Minister Mute Egede saying on Monday that the resource-rich island was "not for sale." Yet his most headline-grabbing remarks have been on Panama, as he slammed what he called unfair fees for US ships passing through and threatened to demand control of the Panama Canal be returned to Washington. Trump said on Sunday that if Panama did not agree "then we will demand that the Panama Canal be returned to the United States of America -- in full, quickly and without question." He also hinted at China's growing influence around the canal, which was built by the United States in 1914 to link the Atlantic and Pacific oceans. It was returned to Panama under a 1977 deal. Panama's President Jose Raul Mulino dismissed Trump's threats, saying that "every square meter" of the canal would remain in Panamanian hands. Trump responded on TruthSocial: "We'll see about that!" Trump also teased neighboring Canada last week that it would be a "great idea" to become the 51st US state -- but against a dark backdrop of threatened tariffs. Sesno said it was hard for other countries to know how to deal with Trump's comments. "Well, it's clearly a joke. Or is it? said Sesno. "Imagine if you're the President of Panama, how do you react to something like that? You can't ignore it and your country will not let you. So the ripple effect of these comments is extraordinary." Trump's harsh treatment of US allies also stands in stark contrast to his repeated praise for the leaders of US foes -- including Russia's Vladimir Putin, who invaded Ukraine in 2022 in a bid for a land-grab. But there is still likely to be method behind Trump's rhetoric. "Maybe the message is for China" when Trump talks about buying Greenland, said Stephanie Pezard, senior political scientist with the Rand Corporation. Just as Trump expressed concern about Beijing's influence in Panama, China's growing presence in the Arctic and its ties with Russia were "something that the US is really worried about," Pezard told AFP. But there could also be a signal to Denmark that 'If you're too friendly with China, you'll find us in your way" -- even though Denmark and Greenland had been "very good NATO allies." And perhaps Trump knows the reality. Any US plan to "buy" Greenland would be unfeasible "not just in international law but more broadly in the global order that the US has been trying to uphold," she said. dk/bgsGeneration Z is leading a significant shift in drinking habits . In fact, compared to preceding generations, Generation Z may be the soberest generation yet. Members of Gen Z consume about one-third less beer and wine than previous generations. They are also shifting toward alcohol-free beverages at a significantly higher rate . This trend, first observed in North America in the early 2000s, has since become a global phenomenon. Recent Gallup data shows a 10 per cent decline in alcohol use among U.S. adults aged 18 to 34 in the last decade. Across the Atlantic, a United Kingdom report found that consumers aged 20 to 24 are nearly half as likely to prioritize spending on alcoholic beverages for home consumption compared to those aged 75 and older. What sets Gen Z apart is that this change appears to be more than a passing trend. As researchers in consumer behaviour, we study the factors that influence and drive changes in consumer choices. Our expertise tells us that the rise of the “Lo/No” alcohol lifestyle reflects genuine change for Gen Z. Growing health and wellness consciousness, changing social patterns and evolving metacognition — an awareness of one’s own thought processes — have sparked their interest in the “sober curious ” movement. Sober curiosity: A movement away from alcohol. Health conscious and informed According to the World Health Organization, alcohol is linked to more than 200 health conditions , including cancer and liver disease. Historically, public awareness of such risks, specifically the links to cancer, has been low. A review of 32 studies across 16 countries found that awareness of alcohol as a cancer risk factor was generally low , with some variation across regions. Read more: The effects of binge drinking on teenagers' brain development Efforts to bridge this knowledge gap have gained momentum over the past few years. As a generation that has grown up in a digital age where health information is more accessible than ever, Gen Z appears to be more aware of the adverse effects of alcohol compared to older generations. Mental health awareness has also played an important role in magnifying this shift. Gen Z experiences higher rates of anxiety and depression than prior generations. However, along with millennials, they are also more likely than older generations to seek treatment or therapy from mental health professionals. Prioritizing mental health One of the most significant cultural changes among younger generations is the reduced stigma around mental health . This shift has been instrumental in encouraging open dialogue about the impact of alcohol on mental and emotional well-being. These open discussions have highlighted a growing recognition that alcohol often hinders, than than helps, in managing anxiety , getting quality sleep and staying emotionally resilient. Compared to preceding generations, Gen Z may be the soberest generation yet. (Shutterstock) Platforms like Instagram and TikTok have amplified this dialogue, with advocates openly discussing their sobriety journeys. By doing so, they further normalize prioritizing mental health over traditional drinking habits. Many young people today see drinking as counterproductive to their mental health goals. They’re not afraid of challenging the old “let loose” mentality if it means staying sharp and feeling good. The ‘sober curious’ movement One of the defining characteristics of Gen Z is its heightened sense of self-awareness. Movements like the sober curiosity movement — a term popularized by cultural commentator Ruby Warrington in her 2018 book — reflect this. The sober curiosity movement encourages people to make conscious efforts to evaluate their relationship with alcohol. It aligns with a broader cultural shift among younger generations toward mindfulness and intentional decision-making across all areas of life . American physician, author and television correspondent Jennifer Ashton reflects on giving up alcohol for a month. Social media platforms like Instagram and TikTok are powerful drivers of Gen Z’s relationship with alcohol. These platforms provide spaces for sharing alcohol’s risks while celebrating alternatives. Social media platforms appear to be playing a significant role in normalizing “ intermittent sobriety ” — a term that describes a pattern where individuals abstain from consuming alcohol and/or other substances for a select period of time. Influencers have shared their experiences with “dry months” and the subsequent improved mental clarity and productivity, inspiring others to follow suit. Changing social dynamics As digital natives, Gen Z and millennials are acutely aware of the lasting impact of their digital footprints . Growing up under the constant gaze of social media, they understand that actions — especially those influenced by alcohol — can be immortalized online, so they are more cautious about engaging in behaviours they might later regret. Social media has also shifted the focus of social interaction. Historically, alcohol consumption has often been a centerpiece of social gatherings . But today, alternative activities like wellness retreats, sober-friendly events and even dry bars are becoming increasingly popular. Looking ahead, businesses need to rethink how they cater to a generation drinking less alcohol. Some businesses, like With Grace Marketplace — a bottle shop specializing in alcohol-free alternatives — are already doing this. Influencers and campaigns like #SoberLife and #SobrietyJourney promoting sober lifestyles have further normalized and celebrated alcohol-free living. Many younger people are redefining what it means to have fun without the need for alcohol. For younger generations, meaningful social experiences are less about following traditional scripts and more about creating inclusive and intentional environments. The authors do not work for, consult, own shares in or receive funding from any company or organisation that would benefit from this article, and have disclosed no relevant affiliations beyond their academic appointment.

Jonah Goldberg Among elites across the ideological spectrum, there's one point of unifying agreement: Americans are bitterly divided. What if that's wrong? What if elites are the ones who are bitterly divided while most Americans are fairly unified? History rarely lines up perfectly with the calendar (the "sixties" didn't really start until the decade was almost over). But politically, the 21st century neatly began in 2000, when the election ended in a tie and the color coding of electoral maps became enshrined as a kind of permanent tribal color war of "red vs. blue." Elite understanding of politics has been stuck in this framework ever since. Politicians and voters have leaned into this alleged political reality, making it seem all the more real in the process. I loathe the phrase "perception is reality," but in politics it has the reifying power of self-fulfilling prophecy. Like rival noble families in medieval Europe, elites have been vying for power and dominance on the arrogant assumption that their subjects share their concern for who rules rather than what the rulers can deliver. Political cartoonists from across country draw up something special for the holiday In 2018, the group More in Common published a massive report on the "hidden tribes" of American politics. The wealthiest and whitest groups were "devoted conservatives" (6%) and "progressive activists" (8%). These tribes dominate the media, the parties and higher education, and they dictate the competing narratives of red vs. blue, particularly on cable news and social media. Meanwhile, the overwhelming majority of Americans resided in, or were adjacent to, the "exhausted majority." These people, however, "have no narrative," as David Brooks wrote at the time. "They have no coherent philosophic worldview to organize their thinking and compel action." Lacking a narrative might seem like a very postmodern problem, but in a postmodern elite culture, postmodern problems are real problems. It's worth noting that red vs. blue America didn't emerge ex nihilo. The 1990s were a time when the economy and government seemed to be working, at home and abroad. As a result, elites leaned into the narcissism of small differences to gain political and cultural advantage. They remain obsessed with competing, often apocalyptic, narratives. That leaves out most Americans. The gladiatorial combatants of cable news, editorial pages and academia, and their superfan spectators, can afford these fights. Members of the exhausted majority are more interested in mere competence. I think that's the hidden unity elites are missing. This is why we keep throwing incumbent parties out of power: They get elected promising competence but get derailed -- or seduced -- by fan service to, or trolling of, the elites who dominate the national conversation. There's a difference between competence and expertise. One of the most profound political changes in recent years has been the separation of notions of credentialed expertise from real-world competence. This isn't a new theme in American life, but the pandemic and the lurch toward identity politics amplified distrust of experts in unprecedented ways. This is a particular problem for the left because it is far more invested in credentialism than the right. Indeed, some progressives are suddenly realizing they invested too much in the authority of experts and too little in the ability of experts to provide what people want from government, such as affordable housing, decent education and low crime. The New York Times' Ezra Klein says he's tired of defending the authority of government institutions. Rather, "I want them to work." One of the reasons progressives find Trump so offensive is his absolute inability to speak the language of expertise -- which is full of coded elite shibboleths. But Trump veritably shouts the language of competence. I don't mean he is actually competent at governing. But he is effectively blunt about calling leaders, experts and elites -- of both parties -- stupid, ineffective, weak and incompetent. He lost in 2020 because voters didn't believe he was actually good at governing. He won in 2024 because the exhausted majority concluded the Biden administration was bad at it. Nostalgia for the low-inflation pre-pandemic economy was enough to convince voters that Trumpian drama is the tolerable price to pay for a good economy. About 3 out of 4 Americans who experienced "severe hardship" because of inflation voted for Trump. The genius of Trump's most effective ad -- "Kamala is for they/them, President Trump is for you" -- was that it was simultaneously culture-war red meat and an argument that Harris was more concerned about boutique elite concerns than everyday ones. If Trump can actually deliver competent government, he could make the Republican Party the majority party for a generation. For myriad reasons, that's an if so big it's visible from space. But the opportunity is there -- and has been there all along. Goldberg is editor-in-chief of The Dispatch: thedispatch.com . Get opinion pieces, letters and editorials sent directly to your inbox weekly!

OTTAWA — Canada will beef up its border security in time for the inauguration of president-elect Donald Trump, Public Safety Minister Dominic LeBlanc said Tuesday as he appeared at a House of Commons committee. LeBlanc couldn't provide specifics on the number of extra "boots on the ground," but said the government is finalizing a plan based on advice received from the RCMP and Canada Border Services Agency, and that he is now working with Finance Minister Chrystia Freeland to fund it. "We haven't made, as a government, those final decisions," LeBlanc told the committee, in response to questions from Conservative MP Raquel Dancho. "There will be additional resources. Human and equipment. We will be making announcements in terms of procurement and personnel before (Jan. 20)," he said, referencing Trump's inauguration date. Last week, Trump threatened Canada with 25 per cent tariffs on all imports if Canada didn't do more to stem the passage of migrants and illegal drugs across the border. If enacted the move could critically damage Canada's economy, with more than 70 per cent of Canadian exports bound for the United States. On Friday, LeBlanc and Prime Minister Justin Trudeau flew to Florida to dine with Trump and some of his cabinet nominees at his Mar-a-Lago resort in Florida where they informally discussed trade and border security among other topics. Trudeau met with opposition leaders in his office on Parliament Hill on Tuesday to brief them on the situation as it stands now. An official in Trudeau's office said during the meeting Trudeau stressed the importance of not negotiating against Canada in public, and asked party leaders to state repeatedly and publicly that tariffs will raise the cost of living on both sides of the border. Finance Minister Chrystia Freeland, who attended the meeting, said at an afternoon news conference that unity is key among premiers and federal party leaders, because successfully beating back the tariffs is "not going to happen by accident." "All of us should be putting country before party," she said. Bloc Québécois leader Yves-François Blanchet said the meeting was cordial, discussions rational and constructive, and said having more of those meetings would be helpful in having a consistent approach on U.S. policy — amid a looming Canadian election. "If that tone that was used in that type of meeting could show up in Parliament, people would have more confidence in us and take us more seriously," Blanchet told reporters, in French. In English he said he was willing to wait for the government's finalized plan for the border before commenting on it, adding he's trying not to turn the issue into a partisan fight. "The parts of (the plan) are exactly what we asked for a long time ago. We asked for more people at the border and ports of entry," Blanchet said. "This is what they seem to be doing with closer collaboration with U.S. authorities. We don't have the details, we don't have the numbers. But we know about the intention, which by itself is the beginning of a good thing." Conservative Leader Pierre Poilievre emerged from the meeting appearing to heed Trudeau's call to stress the impact the tariffs could have on the U.S. economy. "It should be obvious and easy to make these arguments to the Americans, because they would be doing enormous damage to their own economy," Poilievre told reporters. But he was also highly critical of Trudeau for enacting policies that Poilievre said put Canada into the position it is in now. He said his demands are for Trudeau to fix the "disorder" at the border and the immigration system, as well as reverse economic damages he says were caused by the carbon price and an emissions cap on oil and gas production. Green Party Leader Elizabeth May said Trudeau told the party leaders that it would be helpful if they "didn't amplify the kind of messaging and language that the Trump administration is using to attack Canada." "When you sit around a table, there's the sense that we're all here with a shared view and goals that we share as Canadians," May told reporters. "That said, there were differences in responses as we went around afterwards how much we were willing to say 'yes, we will do whatever we can as opposition party leaders to avoid giving the Trump administration any sound bites that sound like Canadians agree with Trump.'" In a post on Truth Social Nov. 30, Trump called his meeting with Trudeau productive particularly about the drug crisis, but made no mention of whether it had moved the needle for him on tariffs. On Tuesday he posted an illustration of him standing on a mountain with a Canadian flag and the caption "O Canada" without any further explanation. Earlier Tuesday at the public safety committee, RCMP Commissioner Michael Duheme said the RCMP did not have intelligence about where people might try to cross the U.S. border, which would inform where to deploy additional officers and how many. He said the challenging part is it's only a crime once people or drugs actually cross into the U.S. "There's collaboration (with U.S. Customs and Border Protection). But I think it's really important to identify those hot areas based on the position that the U.S. will take." Speaking to reporters outside the committee, Duheme said protecting the border is a shared responsibility between both countries and there are problems going both ways. "You heard fentanyl, you heard firearms are coming up from the south. So it's a shared responsibility," he said. The flow of illegal firearms is a topic LeBlanc and Prime Minister Justin Trudeau raised with Trump at their dinner Friday night. "The prime minister did say, when they were talking about their concerns around fentanyl and precursor chemicals and drugs, that we have for a long time worried about illegal firearms smuggled into Canada," LeBlanc told the committee. "We made that point to (Trump) that that was something we wanted to do in partnership with them." LeBlanc also told reporters on Monday that his department is mulling over expanding the CBSA's mandate to include border patrol between ports of entry. Right now, that responsibility falls on the RCMP. But LeBlanc said such a move would require a legislative change that would take some time to enact. "We’re always looking at good ideas and we’re not dismissing this one, but it’s not a priority for us in terms of arriving at the conclusion we want," LeBlanc said. Speaking to reporters following the leaders meeting with Trudeau, NDP leader Jagmeet Singh said it's a change he would support. "Let's protect our borders, keep us safe, and also help in the fight against these tariffs," Singh said. This report by The Canadian Press was first published Dec. 3, 2024 . -with files from David Baxter. Nick Murray, The Canadian PressPresident-elect Donald Trump urged the Supreme Court to pause a controversial ban on TikTok that is set to take effect next month, telling the justices in a legal filing Friday that a delay would allow his administration to “pursue a negotiated resolution.” Trump’s request for a delay in implementing the ban puts him at odds with the Biden administration, which defended the law in its own brief Friday, warning of “grave” national security concerns about TikTok’s continued operation in the US. In one of the most significant pending cases before the Supreme Court, the justices must weigh whether the TikTok ban Congress approved in April violates the First Amendment. The court has already scheduled two hours of oral argument in the case for January 10. The court was flooded with roughly two dozen briefs Friday from groups and officials who have landed on both sides of that question. Trump is technically not a party in the case —he filed a “friend-of-the-court” brief, as did several outside groups, members of Congress and others who wanted to offer their perspective. But given that the ban is set to take effect January 19, a day before his inauguration, Trump’s position may carry significant weight with the justices. Trump eyes negotiations In his brief, Trump technically took no position on the underlying First Amendment questions posed by the case, but he urged the court to delay the January 19 effective date so that his administration could look for a way to resolve the issue without a ban. Trump suggested the court pause the ban’s effective date “to allow his incoming administration to pursue a negotiated resolution that could prevent a nationwide shutdown of TikTok, thus preserving the First Amendment rights of tens of millions of Americans, while also addressing the government’s national security concerns.” The incoming president has sent mixed signals in the past about his views on TikTok but most recently vowed to “save” the platform. Trump, who met with TikTok’s CEO this month, will be inaugurated January 20, a day after the ban is set to take effect unless the Supreme Court intervenes. Congress passed the ban with bipartisan support in response to years of concern that TikTok’s Chinese parent company poses a national security risk because, as the Biden administration warned in its own brief Friday, it can both collect data on users and manipulate the content those users see. The law allows the app to continue in the US if it divests from Chinese ownership. The law gives the sitting president broad power to decide whether the company has adequately split from its owners. Trump’s brief, his first to the Supreme Court since winning the election, claimed he is operating with a “powerful electoral mandate” and that he is uniquely positioned to resolve the TikTok controversy. At one point he described himself as “one of the most powerful, prolific, and influential users of social media in history.” “The First Amendment implications of the federal government’s effective shuttering of a social-media platform used by 170 million Americans are sweeping and troubling,” Trump’s brief stated. “There are valid concerns that the act may set a dangerous global precedent by exercising the extraordinary power to shut down an entire social-media platform based, in large part, on concerns about disfavored speech on that platform.” Biden and ex-Trump officials back ban Earlier Friday, President Joe Biden’s administration and a bipartisan group of ex-government officials — including some who once worked for Trump — urged the Supreme Court to uphold the ban on TikTok , claiming that the platform’s ties to China pose a “grave” threat to American security. “TikTok collects vast swaths of data about tens of millions of Americans,” the administration told the Supreme Court on Friday. And, it said, China “could covertly manipulate the platform to advance its geopolitical interests and harm the United States — by, for example, sowing discord and disinformation during a crisis.” The written arguments submitted to the Supreme Court on Friday underscore a tension between national security and free speech at a time when 170 million Americans use TikTok for news and entertainment. Trump acknowledged in his brief Friday that his administration had also raised concerns about the platform and had signed an executive order limiting the app. When Trump was president in 2020, he signed an executive order to effectively ban TikTok, but it was halted in the courts. But, he argued Friday, the “unfortunate timing” of the law’s effective date “interferes” with his ability to “manage the United States’ foreign policy and to pursue a resolution to both protect national security and save a social-media platform that provides a popular vehicle for 170 million Americans to exercise their core First Amendment rights.” Delaying the law’s effective date, Trump said, could “obviate the need for this court to decide the historically challenging First Amendment question.” Among the former Trump officials who filed legal briefs Friday supporting the Biden administration’s position and the TikTok ban were Jeff Sessions, Trump’s first attorney general, and Ajit Pai, the Trump-appointed chairman of the Federal Communications Commission from 2017 to 2021. TikTok: Ban violates First Amendment TikTok told the court in its own brief Friday that the federal government is attempting to shut down “one of the most significant speech platforms in America” and said that lawmakers were required by the First Amendment to consider other options, such as disclosures about the company’s ownership. “History and precedent teach that, even when national security is at stake, speech bans must be Congress’s last resort,” the company said. Groups advocating for First Amendment protections — including the American Civil Liberties Union and the Knight First Amendment Institute at Columbia University — urged the Supreme Court to look beyond the government’s national security claims and assess the ban’s impact on Americans’ freedom to view whatever online content they choose. “Restricting access to foreign media to protect against purported foreign manipulation is a practice that has long been associated with repressive regimes,” the Knight First Amendment Institute wrote. “The government has no legitimate interest in banning Americans from accessing foreign speech — even if the speech comprises foreign propaganda or reflects foreign manipulation.” The ACLU, similarly, warned of a “far reaching disruption in Americans’ ability to engage with the content and audiences of their choice online” if the Supreme Court upholds the ban. Earlier this month, a federal appeals court in Washington, DC, unanimously upheld the ban in a ruling that said the government had a national security interest in regulating the platform. The quick-turn timing of the briefing reflected the highly unusual speed with which the Supreme Court agreed to consider the case. The court plucked the appeal off its emergency docket — where TikTok was seeking a temporary pause of the ban — and agreed to delve into the substantive First Amendment questions about the law. Trump’s brief was filed by D. John Sauer, whom Trump has said he intends to nominate as solicitor general and who, if confirmed, would represent the Trump administration at the Supreme Court. “There are compelling reasons to stay the act’s deadline,” Sauer argued, “and allow President Trump to seek a negotiated resolution once in office.”

For weeks, Jerod Mayo has been hoping the Patriots would be one of those pain-in-the-butt, nuisance type of teams that “no one wants to play” at the end of the year. That was his stated goal for the group as far back as early November, midway through the season. It took awhile, but Mayo finally got his wish. The Patriots came out with a sense of urgency against Buffalo, competed like crazy for four quarters, showed some game-planning prowess from the coaching staff, and gave the Bills fits. For a time, they put a scare into the AFC’s second-seeded team, who probably didn’t expect to have to duke it out to the wire with a team whose playoff fate was decided long ago. Of course, the Patriots morphed back into their 2024 identity before it was over. They were mistake-prone, overly-cautious and not helped by some late-game decision-making. While it turned out to be infuriating and aggravating to watch the Patriots self-destruct and let Josh Allen & Co. off the hook, what played out was still meaningful in the big picture. The 24-21 loss to the Bills sent a message about Mayo and Alex Van Pelt in particular, who have been under fire of late. In short, the players have their backs. “We just have to stick together,” Kendrick Bourne said on WBZ’s post-game broadcast. “We do everything for AVP. We do everything for Jerod. We have to go out there and make plays for those guys. When they talk about firing and hiring, whatever, our jobs as players is to help them keep jobs.” This was supposed to be a slaughter. The high-flying Bills had put up 125 points the last three games against tough opponents, and are still in the hunt for the AFC’s top playoff seed. Add in frostbite weather in Buffalo and the Patriots could have easily packed it in. Perhaps the Bills took the Patriots lightly, but that shouldn’t diminish what Mayo’s team accomplished in defeat. After a horrendous showing in Arizona after the bye week, this game showed a team that was still in the fight. It showed a team that was still pulling for its head coach, not to mention the offensive and defensive coordinators. The Patriots played hard. They couldn’t escape without making the usual array of killer mistakes, but showing this type of effort, showing some levels of competence is exactly what they need to show to close out the year. And, for the time being, put a pause on all the fire-the-coach talk. It’s a bit of affirmation that the Patriots might be headed in the right direction — especially if de facto GM Eliot Wolf supplies an influx of talent during the offseason. “At the end of the day, we’re in that game, and that’s a playoff football team we just played with an MVP candidate,” Drake Maye said following the loss. “We’re in that game, and I felt like we had a chance to come out with that one.” Offensive coordinator Van Pelt finally let Maye off his leash when it came to giving him the ball in short yardage situations, and it paid off with his rookie quarterback moving the sticks with his legs. On the other side of the ball, defensive coordinator DeMarcus Covington devised a good plan to keep Allen from padding his MVP stat totals. There were still issues stopping the run (James Cook had 100 yards on 11 carries), but holding Allen to just 154 passing yards was a credit to Covington’s plan, the pressure he was able to generate up front, and the play of the secondary. Mayo also dialed up a successful fake punt, with safety Dell Pettus taking the direct snap and gaining the necessary yardage in the second quarter to keep a drive alive. Then, almost on cue, the aggressiveness disappeared in the second half. There were curious play calls — Van Pelt calling for that backward screen pass that resulted in a fumble/touchdown for the Bills. Someone also fell asleep at the switch with the Patriots allowing 15 seconds to run off the clock late in the game without calling a timeout. Maye had trouble holding on to a snap, and had to fall on the ball with less than two minutes to go down by the goal line, and the clock was left to run. He hit Hunter Henry with a touchdown pass on the very next play, but too much time had run off the clock. Speaking of Maye (22 of 36 for 261 yards, two TDs, one INT, one fumble), he was part of what was good, and not-so-good, in the loss. He threw a perfect ball to Kayshon Boutte, dropping it right in the bucket down the right side line for the Patriots’ first score, but he also had a pair of costly turnovers. Looking at the future, though, Maye continues to present a brighter picture. He continues to provide hope. Once again, it’ll be up to Wolf to surround him with the necessary talent to get the Patriots heads above water and make them a contender once again. “It’s not where we want to be,” said Maye, who made it a point to go to bat for both Mayo and Van Pelt with his post-game remarks. “I think it’s kind of a sneak peek, hopefully, into some meaningful games here, and hopefully, it’s at our place in the future years ... I think we’re building something good, building something that feels right here, and I’m proud to be a Patriot.” For a 3-12 team, that says something.BURLINGTON, N.J., Nov. 26, 2024 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) -- Burlington Stores, Inc. (NYSE: BURL), a nationally recognized off-price retailer of high-quality, branded apparel, footwear, accessories, and merchandise for the home at everyday low prices, announced today that Shira Goodman, former Chief Executive Officer of Staples, Inc., is joining its Board of Directors and its Audit Committee effective January 1, 2025. John Mahoney, Chairman of the Board, stated, “We are very pleased to welcome Shira to our Board as a highly accomplished business leader with considerable public company board experience. I believe that she will enhance the depth and strength of our Board as it continues to oversee the Company’s continued strategic growth.” Michael O’Sullivan, Chief Executive Officer, stated, “We are very excited to have Shira as a Board member. She has almost three decades of experience in the retail industry, and her perspectives and expertise will benefit us as we continue to execute on the Burlington 2.0 strategy and aim to drive sales and earnings growth in the years ahead.” Ms. Goodman added, “I am excited to join Burlington’s Board and work with the leadership team. I believe the Company is well positioned for continued growth and I am eager to contribute to the Company's continued success.” About Shira Goodman Ms. Goodman has served as an Advisory Director to Charlesbank Capital Partners, a private equity firm, since January 2019. She previously served as the Chief Executive Officer of Staples, Inc. from September 2016 to January 2018. Ms. Goodman served in roles with increasing responsibility at Staples since joining the company in 1992, including President and Interim Chief Executive Officer from June 2016 to September 2016, President, North American Operations from January 2016 to June 2016, and President, North American Commercial from February 2014 to June 2016. Prior to that, she served as Executive Vice President of Global Growth from February 2012 to February 2014, Executive Vice President of Human Resources from March 2009 to February 2012, Executive Vice President of Marketing from May 2001 to March 2009, and in various other management positions. Prior to Staples, Ms. Goodman worked at Bain & Company from 1986 to 1992, in project design, client relationships and case team management. She currently serves on the board of directors of CarMax, Inc. and CBRE Group, Inc., and previously served on the board of directors of Henry Schein, Inc., Staples, Inc. and The Stride Rite Corporation. About Burlington Stores, Inc. Burlington Stores, Inc., headquartered in New Jersey, is a nationally recognized off-price retailer with Fiscal 2023 net sales of $9.7 billion. The Company is a Fortune 500 company and its common stock is traded on the New York Stock Exchange under the ticker symbol “BURL.” The Company operated 1,103 stores as of the end of the third quarter of Fiscal 2024, in 46 states, Washington D.C. and Puerto Rico, principally under the name Burlington Stores. The Company’s stores offer an extensive selection of in-season, fashion-focused merchandise at up to 60% off other retailers' prices, including women’s ready-to-wear apparel, menswear, youth apparel, baby, beauty, footwear, accessories, home, toys, gifts and coats. For more information about the Company, visit www.burlington.com . Investor Relations Contacts: David J. Glick Daniel Delrosario 855-973-8445 Info@BurlingtonInvestors.com Allison Malkin ICR, Inc. 203-682-8225 Safe Harbor for Forward-Looking and Cautionary Statements This release contains forward-looking statements within the meaning of Section 27A of the Securities Act of 1933, as amended, and Section 21E of the Securities Exchange Act of 1934, as amended. All statements other than statements of historical fact included in this release are forward-looking statements. Forward-looking statements discuss our current expectations and projections relating to our financial condition, results of operations, plans, objectives, future performance and business. You can identify forward-looking statements by the fact that they do not relate strictly to historical or current facts. We do not undertake to publicly update or revise our forward-looking statements, except as required by law, even if experience or future changes make it clear that any projected results expressed or implied in such statements will not be realized. If we do update one or more forward-looking statements, no inference should be made that we will make additional updates with respect to those or other forward-looking statements. All forward-looking statements are subject to risks and uncertainties that may cause actual events or results to differ materially from those we expected, including general economic conditions, such as inflation, and the domestic and international political situation and the related impact on consumer confidence and spending; competitive factors, including the scale and potential consolidation of some of our competitors, rise of e-commerce spending, pricing and promotional activities of major competitors, and an increase in competition within the markets in which we compete; seasonal fluctuations in our net sales, operating income and inventory levels; the reduction in traffic to, or the closing of, the other destination retailers in the shopping areas where our stores are located; our ability to identify changing consumer preferences and demand; our ability to meet our environmental, social or governance (“ESG”) goals or otherwise expectations of our stakeholders with respect to ESG matters; extreme and/or unseasonable weather conditions caused by climate change or otherwise adversely impacting demand; effects of public health crises, epidemics or pandemics; our ability to sustain our growth plans or successfully implement our long-range strategic plans; our ability to execute our opportunistic buying and inventory management process; our ability to optimize our existing stores or maintain favorable lease terms; the availability, selection and purchasing of attractive brand name merchandise on favorable terms; our ability to attract, train and retain quality employees and temporary personnel in sufficient numbers; labor costs and our ability to manage a large workforce; the solvency of parties with whom we do business and their willingness to perform their obligations to us; import risks, including tax and trade policies, tariffs and government regulations; disruption in our distribution network; our ability to protect our protect our information systems against service interruption, misappropriation of data, breaches of security, or other cyber-related attacks; risks related to the methods of payment we accept; the success of our advertising and marketing programs in generating sufficient levels of customer traffic and awareness; damage to our corporate reputation or brand; impact of potential loss of executives or other key personnel; our ability to comply with existing and changing laws, rules, regulations and local codes; lack of or insufficient insurance coverage; issues with merchandise safety and shrinkage; our ability to comply with increasingly rigorous privacy and data security regulations; impact of legal and regulatory proceedings relating to us; use of social media by us or by third parties our direction in violation of applicable laws and regulations; our ability to generate sufficient cash to fund our operations and service our debt obligations; our ability to comply with covenants in our debt agreements; the consequences of the possible conversion of our convertible notes; our reliance on dividends, distributions and other payments, advance and transfers of funds from our subsidiaries to meet our obligations; the volatility of our stock price; the impact of the anti-takeover provisions in our governing documents; impact of potential shareholder activism; and each of the factors that may be described from time to time in our filings with the U.S. Securities and Exchange Commission, including under the heading “Risk Factors” in our most recent Annual Report on Form 10-K. For each of these factors, the Company claims the protection of the safe harbor for forward-looking statements contained in the Private Securities Litigation Reform Act of 1995, as amended.

Inside struggles of Bruins' Jeremy Swayman, Senators' Linus Ullmark in netsIn the rapidly evolving realm of gaming, Intel consistently takes center stage, pushing boundaries with groundbreaking innovations. The tech giant is not merely racing to keep up with current trends; it’s redefining the standard for what gamers can expect in the future. Intel has introduced its latest advancement in gaming technology with the upcoming Meteor Lake processors , designed specifically to enhance gaming performance and efficiency. These processors incorporate an innovative hybrid architecture that optimizes power distribution and processing efficiency, thus allowing gamers to enjoy seamless experiences—even with demanding graphics. Additionally, Intel is investing heavily in its Xe graphics architecture , anticipated to rival dedicated GPUs by offering powerful integrated solutions. This technology aims to deliver high-framerate outputs and realistic rendering, improving the accessibility of high-end gaming experiences without the need for expensive hardware upgrades. Another strategic focus is on AI technology integration. Intel’s forward-looking approach includes AI-enhanced game design and player interaction, promising more immersive and personalized game narratives. The prediction is that this AI integration will lead to more adaptive difficulty levels and environments that react dynamically to player actions, enhancing the overall gaming immersion. Intel’s ongoing commitment to innovation in gaming technology indicates a thrilling future for gamers worldwide. As these advancements continue to unfold, players can expect an unprecedented leap in the realism, performance, and accessibility of their favorite digital worlds. With Intel at the helm, the future of gaming is not just coming—it’s already here. Is Intel Leading the Charge for the Next Gaming Revolution? In the vibrant world of gaming technology, Intel’s forward-thinking approach is setting new standards. Beyond their latest innovations, here are the insights and developments shaping Intel’s future in gaming. The Innovative Edge: Meteor Lake Processors As Intel unveils its Meteor Lake processors, gamers are eager to explore the features that set them apart. These processors introduce a groundbreaking hybrid architecture, promising unprecedented power distribution and processing efficiency. But how does this translate into real-world benefits for gamers? # Features and Specifications Meteor Lake’s hybrid architecture integrates efficient cores with high-performance cores, optimizing workload management. This design not only boosts gaming performance but also enhances multitasking abilities—ideal for streamers who juggle gaming with multiple applications. Intel Xe Graphics: Redefining Integrated Solutions A significant leap forward is Intel’s advancement in the Xe graphics architecture. Expected to compete with standalone GPUs, Xe offers powerful integrated solutions that promise smoother and more vivid gaming experiences. # Pros and Cons Pros: – High-framerate output with integrated solutions. – Cost-effective alternative for gamers avoiding expensive GPU upgrades. Cons: – Dedicated GPUs might still outperform in extremely high-end gaming settings. AI Integration: The Game Changer AI technology is another frontier Intel is exploring with a profound impact on game design and player interaction. # Use Cases and Innovations AI-enhanced narratives and environments that adapt to player actions are not just concepts—they’re becoming a reality. This technology allows games to offer tailored experiences, dynamically adjusting difficulty and content based on the player’s skill level and preferences. Trends and Sustainability Intel’s approach extends to sustainability, as they’re focusing on reducing energy consumption and increasing the durability of gaming hardware. Tech enthusiasts are looking forward to see how Intel bridges cutting-edge performance with eco-friendly practices. Market Trends and Predictions The gaming market is poised for dynamic growth, with Intel remaining a significant player. As demand for portable and efficient gaming solutions grows, Intel’s innovations could lead the charge in capturing a larger market share. Security Aspects With rising concerns over cyber threats, Intel is incorporating enhanced security features in their processors to safeguard user data. This focus is increasingly important as gaming platforms become more interconnected. Compatibility and Future Developments Intel emphasizes developing technology compatible with existing ecosystems, ensuring that gamers can seamlessly integrate new advancements. This forward compatibility encourages more consumers to adopt Intel’s latest offerings without fear of obsolescence. For more about Intel’s innovations and products, visit the Intel website . In conclusion, Intel’s dedication to innovation in processor and graphics technology is setting the stage for an exciting evolution in gaming. Their strategic investments in AI and sustainability outline a future that promises not only enhanced performance but also a more inclusive and adaptable gaming environment.

'Stunning' Best Friend Of Ring Girl Sydney Thomas Is Going ViralJonah Goldberg Among elites across the ideological spectrum, there's one point of unifying agreement: Americans are bitterly divided. What if that's wrong? What if elites are the ones who are bitterly divided while most Americans are fairly unified? History rarely lines up perfectly with the calendar (the "sixties" didn't really start until the decade was almost over). But politically, the 21st century neatly began in 2000, when the election ended in a tie and the color coding of electoral maps became enshrined as a kind of permanent tribal color war of "red vs. blue." Elite understanding of politics has been stuck in this framework ever since. Politicians and voters have leaned into this alleged political reality, making it seem all the more real in the process. I loathe the phrase "perception is reality," but in politics it has the reifying power of self-fulfilling prophecy. Like rival noble families in medieval Europe, elites have been vying for power and dominance on the arrogant assumption that their subjects share their concern for who rules rather than what the rulers can deliver. Political cartoonists from across country draw up something special for the holiday In 2018, the group More in Common published a massive report on the "hidden tribes" of American politics. The wealthiest and whitest groups were "devoted conservatives" (6%) and "progressive activists" (8%). These tribes dominate the media, the parties and higher education, and they dictate the competing narratives of red vs. blue, particularly on cable news and social media. Meanwhile, the overwhelming majority of Americans resided in, or were adjacent to, the "exhausted majority." These people, however, "have no narrative," as David Brooks wrote at the time. "They have no coherent philosophic worldview to organize their thinking and compel action." Lacking a narrative might seem like a very postmodern problem, but in a postmodern elite culture, postmodern problems are real problems. It's worth noting that red vs. blue America didn't emerge ex nihilo. The 1990s were a time when the economy and government seemed to be working, at home and abroad. As a result, elites leaned into the narcissism of small differences to gain political and cultural advantage. They remain obsessed with competing, often apocalyptic, narratives. That leaves out most Americans. The gladiatorial combatants of cable news, editorial pages and academia, and their superfan spectators, can afford these fights. Members of the exhausted majority are more interested in mere competence. I think that's the hidden unity elites are missing. This is why we keep throwing incumbent parties out of power: They get elected promising competence but get derailed -- or seduced -- by fan service to, or trolling of, the elites who dominate the national conversation. There's a difference between competence and expertise. One of the most profound political changes in recent years has been the separation of notions of credentialed expertise from real-world competence. This isn't a new theme in American life, but the pandemic and the lurch toward identity politics amplified distrust of experts in unprecedented ways. This is a particular problem for the left because it is far more invested in credentialism than the right. Indeed, some progressives are suddenly realizing they invested too much in the authority of experts and too little in the ability of experts to provide what people want from government, such as affordable housing, decent education and low crime. The New York Times' Ezra Klein says he's tired of defending the authority of government institutions. Rather, "I want them to work." One of the reasons progressives find Trump so offensive is his absolute inability to speak the language of expertise -- which is full of coded elite shibboleths. But Trump veritably shouts the language of competence. I don't mean he is actually competent at governing. But he is effectively blunt about calling leaders, experts and elites -- of both parties -- stupid, ineffective, weak and incompetent. He lost in 2020 because voters didn't believe he was actually good at governing. He won in 2024 because the exhausted majority concluded the Biden administration was bad at it. Nostalgia for the low-inflation pre-pandemic economy was enough to convince voters that Trumpian drama is the tolerable price to pay for a good economy. About 3 out of 4 Americans who experienced "severe hardship" because of inflation voted for Trump. The genius of Trump's most effective ad -- "Kamala is for they/them, President Trump is for you" -- was that it was simultaneously culture-war red meat and an argument that Harris was more concerned about boutique elite concerns than everyday ones. If Trump can actually deliver competent government, he could make the Republican Party the majority party for a generation. For myriad reasons, that's an if so big it's visible from space. But the opportunity is there -- and has been there all along. Goldberg is editor-in-chief of The Dispatch: thedispatch.com . Get opinion pieces, letters and editorials sent directly to your inbox weekly!Seneca Mall property changes hands with $22M sale

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