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Pope Francis kicks off a yearlong Jubilee that will test his stamina and Rome's patience VATICAN CITY (AP) — Pope Francis has opened the great Holy Door of St. Peter's Basilica. The ceremony kicks off the 2025 Holy Year. It's a celebration of the Catholic Church that is expected to draw some 32 million pilgrims to Rome. And it will test the pope’s stamina and the ability of the Eternal City to welcome them. This begins the Christmas Eve Mass. The ceremony inaugurates the once-every-25-year tradition of a Jubilee. Francis has dedicated the 2025 Jubilee to the theme of hope. Bethlehem marks a second subdued Christmas Eve during the war in Gaza BETHLEHEM, West Bank (AP) — Bethlehem is marking another somber Christmas Eve under the shadow of war in Gaza. Manger Square lacked its usual festive lights and crowds of tourists on Tuesday. Instead, the area outside the Nativity Church was quiet. The church was built atop the spot where Jesus is believed to have been born. The war, the violence in the occupied West Bank it has spurred and the lack of festivities has deeply hurt Bethlehem's economy. The town relies heavily on Christmas tourism. The economy in the West Bank was already reeling because of restrictions placed on laborers preventing them from entering Israel during the war. Heavy travel day starts with brief grounding of all American Airlines flights WASHINGTON (AP) — American Airlines briefly grounded flights nationwide due to a technical problem just as the Christmas travel season kicked into overdrive and winter weather threatened more potential problems for those planning to fly or drive. Government regulators cleared American flights to get airborne Tuesday about an hour after the Federal Aviation Administration ordered a national ground stop, which prevented planes from taking off. American said in an email that the problem was caused by vendor technology in its flight operating system. Aviation analytics company Cirium said flights were delayed across American’s major hubs, with only 37% leaving on time. Nineteen flights were cancelled. Haiti gangs fire on journalists covering a planned hospital reopening, leaving casualties PORT-AU-PRINCE, Haiti (AP) — Suspected gang members have opened fire on journalists in Haiti’s capital as they were covering the attempted reopening of the country’s largest hospital, wounding or killing an unknown number of people. The country's interim president, Leslie Voltaire, said in an address to the nation that journalists and police were among the victims of the vicious Christmas Eve attack. He did not specify how many casualties there were, or give a breakdown for the dead or wounded. Radio Télé Métronome said earlier on Tuesday that seven journalists and two police officers were wounded in the shooting. Street gangs have taken over an estimated 85% of Haiti’s capital, Port-au-Prince. Middle East latest: Israeli raid and airstrikes in West Bank kill at least 8 Palestinians The Palestinian Health Ministry says at least eight people were killed by Israeli military operations in the northern West Bank. The ministry said three of the dead were killed by Israeli airstrikes. The attacks took place around the city of Tulkarem and nearby refugee camps. The Israeli military said it opened fire after militants attacked soldiers, and it was aware of some uninvolved civilians who were harmed in the raid. Elsewhere in the occupied West Bank, the Palestinian city of Bethlehem was marking a somber Christmas Eve under the shadow of the war in Gaza. Most festivities were cancelled and crowds of tourists were absent. Caitlin Clark honored as AP Female Athlete of the Year following her impact on women's sports Caitlin Clark has been named the AP Female Athlete of the Year after raising the profile of women’s basketball to unprecedented levels in both college and the WNBA. She led Iowa to the national championship game, was the top pick in the WNBA draft and captured rookie of the year honors in the league. Fans packed sold-out arenas and millions of television viewers followed her journey on and off the court. Clark's exploits also put other women's sports leagues in the spotlight. A group of 74 sports journalists from AP and its members voted on the award. Other athletes who received votes included Olympic gold medalist Simone Biles and boxer Imane Khelif. Clark’s only the fourth women’s basketball player to win the award since it was first given in 1931. NFL players who use platform to share their faith say it's their duty to spread their love of Jesus ALLEN PARK, Mich. (AP) — Jake Bates was standing on the turf in his hometown of Houston when asked to reflect on an unlikely journey from learning how to sell bricks to making game-winning kicks for the Detroit Lions. Bates used his platform as an NFL player to spread his love of Jesus. A month later, Bates told The Associated Press it is a duty to share his faith. The NFL is filled with players and coaches who feel the same way, such as Houston's C.J. Stroud, Atlanta's Kirk Cousins, and Lamar Jackson and John Harbaugh of the Baltimore Ravens. Major storm pounds California's central coast, blamed for man's death and partially collapsing pier SANTA CRUZ, Calif. (AP) — A major storm has pounded California’s central coast bringing flooding and high surf that was blamed for fatally trapping a man beneath debris on a beach and later partially collapsing a pier, tossing three people into the Pacific Ocean. The storm was expected to bring hurricane-force winds and waves up to 60 feet Monday as it gained strength from California to the Pacific Northwest. Some California cities have ordered beachfront homes and hotels to evacuate early Monday afternoon. Forecasters have warned that storm swells would continue to increase throughout the day. Medellin Cartel victims demand truth and justice as cartel boss Fabio Ochoa walks free in Colombia BOGOTÁ, Colombia (AP) — The return of the notorious drug trafficker Fabio Ochoa to Colombia, following his deportation from the United States, has reopened old wounds among the victims of the Medellin cartel, with some expressing their dismay at the decision of Colombian authorities to let the former mafia boss walk free.Some of the cartel victims said on Tuesday that they are hoping the former drug lord will at least cooperate with ongoing efforts by human rights groups to investigate one of the most violent periods of Colombia’s history, and demanded that Colombian prosecutors also take Ochoa in for questioning.
You’re here if you want to learn about how the Australian national football team (the Socceroos) is getting ready for a competitive qualification campaign with the imminent 2026 FIFA World Cup. Keep in mind that so far, the team has won all six matches in the second round of World Cup qualification which is quite impressive. Now, the Socceroos are meticulously thinking about ways to ensure they qualify for the tournament for the 7th time - the event will be held by the USA, Canada, and Mexico, in fact. So, if you are a fan who likes to watch or even bet on matches, this article is for you. Besides, those who bet should choose instant withdrawal casinos in Australia that are reliable and licensed only. Anyway, we’re getting straight to the point. How Is Australia Performing in the World Cup Qualifiers? Australia’s journey to the World Cup 2026 started strong in the second round of the Asian qualifiers. The Socceroos dominated Group I, winning all six matches. They scored 22 goals and didn’t concede a single one. This perfect record showed how strong their attack and defence are, raising hopes for the next stage. However, the third round has been much tougher. Currently second in Group C, Australia has faced tough competition from Japan, Saudi Arabia, Bahrain, China, and Indonesia. In five matches, they’ve managed just one win (a 3-1 victory over China), three draws, and one narrow loss to Bahrain (0-1). With six points, The Socceroos are still in a good position to secure one of the top two spots for automatic qualification. Star Players and Strategic Moves The Socceroos, led by their new coach Tony Popovic, play an energetic and flexible game. They switch between 3-4-3 and 4-3-3 formations based on their opponents, which helps them adapt during matches. Some of Australia’s key players include: Craig Goodwin: A key part of Australia’s attack, Goodwin is known for his creativity and ability to score from long range. Harry Souttar: A reliable defender, Souttar has played a big role in keeping Australia’s defence strong during the qualifiers. Nishan Velupillay: This one is also an important player of the Australian National football team who made a strong impression by scoring a stoppage-time goal in his debut against China, showing his potential. The team has also called up young players like Max Balard and Hayden Matthews, who bring fresh energy. With the team eager for more success, these young talents will need to give their best to help Australia move forward. Breaking Down the Qualification Process The road to the 2026 FIFA World Cup involves several rounds of matches in Asia. In the third round, the top two teams from each group qualify directly for the World Cup, while the third-place teams compete in a playoff for another chance to qualify. Australia is in a tricky position in Group C but let’s point out the fact that it’s far away from hopeless. Anyway, they’ll have to show a good result in the following games to guarantee that they have a seat among Asia's best teams heading into World Cup soccer. Can Australia Make It to the World Cup? Australia’s journey to the 2026 FIFA World Cup has been promising, but challenges remain. Success will require smart strategies and steady performance. Below, you’ll find insights into The Socceroos’ strengths, weaknesses, and what lies ahead as they aim for a spot in North America: Strengths Defensive organisation : Australia’s defence, led by Harry Souttar, has been solid during the qualifiers. They didn’t concede any goals in the second round, showing how well they can shut down opponents. This will be crucial in tight matches, especially against stronger teams. Dynamic attackers : New talents like Kusini Yengi and Nestory Irankunda have brought speed and unpredictability to Australia’s attack. Combined with experienced players like Mathew Leckie and Craig Goodwin, the Socceroos now have a flexible offence that can handle various defensive strategies which puts them in a more or less winning position. Home advantage : We all know that Australia has always done well at home, benefiting from crowd support and familiarity with the conditions. Key home matches, like those against strong teams such as Saudi Arabia, will be crucial as the Socceroos look to secure as many points as possible. Weaknesses Finishing struggles : Although Australia creates plenty of chances, they’ve sometimes had trouble turning them into goals. While they scored 22 times in the second round, they relied on a few strong performances. Close wins, like the 1-0 victory over Palestine, show they need to be more clinical. Vulnerability to upsets : The Socceroos have occasionally dropped points against lower-ranked teams. Staying focused and avoiding complacency will be key for sure. Final Thoughts: What Lies Ahead for Australia Australia's 2026 FIFA World Cup dream is a mix of promise and challenges that could prove tough to overcome. Under Tony Popovic’s tactical leadership, with a blend of experienced players and rising stars, plus one of the best home-field advantages, the Socceroos have what it takes. While fans can be proud of the team’s resilience and adaptability, the road ahead requires sharp performances and tactical precision. If Australia soccer rises to the challenge, they are well-positioned to secure their place on the global stage and uphold their proud World Cup legacy. *The San Francisco Examiner newsroom and editorial were not involved in the creation of this content.
Dr. Phillips alum Trinity Turner brings her ‘poise, charisma’ to Georgia basketball
By the time the Vaigai reaches Attrankarai in Ramanathapuram district, it also beings sewage, waste and pollutants from shrimp farms. | Photo Credit: L. BALACHANDAR The team from Madurai Nature Cultural Foundation checking pollution level in Vaigai river in Madurai. | Photo Credit: R. ASHOK Trickling down the Varushanad hills near Valipparai village in Theni district, Vaigai river begins to take shape. Here, the water rippling over smooth pebbles on the riverbed is crystal clear. Fit for drinking, say the villagers and the team from Madurai Nature Cultural Foundation (MNCF), who were on a survey mission, drank the cool and sweet water before a sample was taken for testing. Within 24 hours, the test was done at Water Quality Testing Laboratory, Water Watch Centre, The DHAN Academy, Madurai, and the result was shocking. As per the Central Pollution Control Board, water quality has been classified into A, B, C, D, and E category. The water taken from Valipparai was of D grade, which means it is fit only for wildlife and fisheries. This came as a shock for the MNCF people who were on a six-day continuous study from August 28 to September 2, right after the end of south west monsoon season when there was water flow in the river. Apart from chemical fertilizers being used in the coffee plantation in the region, another major factor for contamination were the villagers themselves. Valipparai has conservancy workers, but no place to dispose of the waste. The garbage collected is heaped near the river and with no Under Ground Drainage (UGD) scheme, sewage is let into the river. This place is home to smooth coated otter, which as per the International Union for Conservation of Nature (IUCN) is a vulnerable species. But as pollution level rises, will the otter still call this place home, is a question. The Vaigai river basin covers an area of 7,009.13 sq km. It originates from Varushanadu valley and flows northwards through Kandamanayakkanur. Numerous tributaries like Theniyar that joins Suruliyar joins the Vaigai near Kottaipatti. Thereafter, Vaigai flows east and then takes the south east direction till it joins Bay of Bengal. Varattar, Nagalar, Varahanadhi, Manjalar, Marudhanadhi, Sirumaliar and Sathayar that originate in Palani hills are the main tributaries that join Vaigai along its course. Uppar river originates in the Alagar hills and joins Vaigai near Manamadurai. The length of Vaigai river up to Ramanathapuram big tank is 266.71 km and from Ramanathapuram big tank to the sea it is 28.40 km. The total length of the river from its origin to sea is about 295.11 km. As pointed out by an expert from Dhan Foundation, the river is seasonal. The flowing period can be said to be about four months in a year and this too depends on climatic conditions and rainfall in the catchment areas. After Vaigai dam was built and the parallel Periyar canal was established, the flow of water has been diverted to the canal thus resulting in less flow in the river. This creates a unique problem, especially when one takes into account the pollution level in the river as sewage stagnation is more during most of the months when there is nil flow. The river course has urban settlements like Madurai, Cumbum, Uthamapalayam, Bodinayakkanur, Theni, Periyakulam, Manamadurai, Paramakudi and Ramanathapuram and also a large number of rural settlements that are highly populated. Some of the settlements have no Sewage Treatment Plants (STPs) and some like Madurai that have STPs do not function to its full capacity. Fingers are pointed at unfinished UGDs in almost all these areas that have led to untreated sewage being let into the river. The MNCF team has identified 197 pipes or canals bringing sewage into Vaigai at 177 spots from Valipparai village to Attrankarai in Ramanathapuram district where Vaigai joins the sea. As a result, out of the 36 samples collected by MNCF - 31 were collected in Vaigai river, 1 each in Suruliyar, Manjalar and Varahanadhi - nearly five samples from Vaigai river were below E grade and those collected from Suruli, Varahanadhi and Manjalar were D grade. Tamildasan of MNCF says that what is imperative is not smart cities but smart villages. “By cleaning Vaigai along Madurai alone we cannot achieve complete success as protection of the river should start from the source,” he says and adds that waste and sewage management not just in cities but also in villages should be the moot point. There are no major polluting industrial units near Vaigai and the only major pollutants are household waste and sewage. Setting up STPs for urban areas is surely a costly affair that may run to few crores, but STPs in villages with less population can be done within few lakhs, says S. Praveen Kumar, a Dhan faculty member. Use of simple technology can bring about a significant change in water quality, he says. The river, though seasonal, has not just an utilitarian connection with the people living on its banks but it also has an emotional and cultural tie. In ancient Tamil literature, Vaigai has been mentioned as ‘vaiyai’ and it has been mentioned more than 80 times in Sangam literature. The oldest inscription discovered in 1961 tells of Senthan Maran, a Pandya king, of 6th century BCE, building a sluice across Vaigai. The oldest ‘seppedu’ (copper plate grant) mentioning the river is from the period of Viswantha Nayakkar (1529-64 CE) that tells of grants given to Telugu speaking people in the region of Suruli Nadhi and Vaigai. There are 16 places along the river where people celebrate Alagar’s entry into the waterbody during the Chithirai festival. It is this cultural connection that can be used to leverage people’s participation in conservation of the river, say conservationists. A river cannot be studied in isolation, the riverine ecosystem is of paramount importance. A healthy biosphere will keep the river healthy, says N. Karthikeyan of MNCF. Ancient literature points to numerous trees lining the riverfront, but with concretisation of the riverbanks the trees have all been cut and the green cover has been lost. “We recorded 80 ancient temples located about 1 km from the bank of the river but Thala Maram or sacred trees associated with these temples have all been lost. Trees act as a natural filter of pollutants, reduce soil erosion, and they not just regulate flow of water but also increase groundwater level and provide habitats for wildlife and fish,” he adds. At Attrankarai village, where the backwaters should have had a thriving mangrove, what remains are very scant flora associated with mangroves. The MNCF team noted an unrestrained growth of Prosopis juliflora throughout the course and with water hyacinth (Eichhornia crassipes) flourishing in many spots indicating the presence of sewage. The wetland bird distribution also establishes the health of the river as they are responsive to environmental changes. As the amount of sand in the river has decreased with increase in accumulation of mud and waste, the number of fish has also decreased. This has resulted in sightings of low numbers of piscivorous bird species like Kingfishers, terns and egrets while those eating worms and snails like open-billed storks, ibis and water fowl were found in large numbers. With the health of Vaigai being important for sustainable development of the cities and towns that depend on it, experts feel that it is time town planners thought out of the box. Villages near the river course should become a focal point of nascent rural planning and performance evaluation of STPs in urban areas should be strictly enforced. The State government should have a strict river policy so that all stakeholders are answerable for their actions, they say. Published - November 24, 2024 06:56 pm IST Copy link Email Facebook Twitter Telegram LinkedIn WhatsApp RedditTORONTO — Canada's main stock index gained more than 150 points Wednesday after the Bank of Canada cut interest rates, while U.S. stock markets were mixed, led by a 1.8 per cent gain on the Nasdaq after the latest inflation report. The Bank of Canada cut its key interest rate by half a percentage point to 3.25 per cent. The outsized interest rate cut didn’t come as a surprise, but was welcomed by markets, said Brian Madden, chief investment officer with First Avenue Investment Counsel. On the TSX, “the leadership seems to be a combination of rate-sensitive areas like real estate and financials, and then pro-growth cyclicals like tech, indicating the strength in the U.S.,” he said. The S&P/TSX composite index closed up 153.37 points at 25,657.70. “With the policy rate now substantially lower, we anticipate a more gradual approach to monetary policy if the economy evolves broadly as expected,” he said. It was noteworthy that the Bank of Canada gave such a strong indication of what’s to come, said Madden. In New York, the Dow Jones industrial average was down 99.27 points at 44,148.56. The S&P 500 index was up 49.28 points at 6,084.19, while the Nasdaq composite was up 347.65 points at 20,034.89. Governor Tiff Macklem said the central bank will likely take a more cautious tack after December. In the U.S., the latest report on consumer inflation showed price growth ticked higher in November to 2.7 per cent. The “hotly anticipated” report came in exactly as expected, said Madden, and markets took it largely as good news. The U.S. Federal Reserve is still “all but certain” to cut its own rate by a quarter of a percentage point next week, said Madden. Also helping markets Wednesday were tech stocks, with Google continuing its gains from the day before after announcing its new quantum computing chip. The tech giant’s stock rose 5.5 per cent. Another tech name in the news was Broadcom, which saw its stock rise 6.6 per cent after an announcement that it’s working with Apple to develop an AI chip, noted Madden. Broadly, Wednesday saw a continuation of the momentum markets have enjoyed since the U.S. election, said Madden. The Canadian dollar traded for 70.65 cents US compared with 70.59 cents US on Tuesday. The January crude oil contract was up US$1.70 at US$70.29 per barrel and the January natural gas contract was up 22 cents at US$3.38 per mmBTU. The February gold contract was up US$38.30 at US$2,756.70 an ounce and the March copper contract was down a penny at US$4.26 a pound. — With files from The Associated Press This report by The Canadian Press was first published Dec. 11, 2024. Companies in this story: (TSX:GSPTSE, TSX:CADUSD) Rosa Saba, The Canadian Press
