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axiebet88 voucher code free Former President Donald Trump vowed that the Republican Party would “use its best efforts” to get rid of Daylight Saving Time. In a post on Truth Social, Trump described Daylight Saving Time as being “inconvenient” and “costly” to the United States. “The Republican Party will use its best efforts to eliminate Daylight Saving Time, which has a small but strong constituency, but shouldn’t,” Trump wrote. “Daylight Saving Time is inconvenient, and very costly to our Nation.” Under Daylight Saving Time, “civil clocks in most areas of the United States are adjusted ahead one hour in the summer months (known as Daylight Savings Time) and returned back one hour in the winter months (known as standard time.) The dates marking the beginning and end of Daylight Saving Time have changed as Congress has passed new statutes,” according to the website of the United States Naval Observatory Astronomical Applications Department. Trump’s post comes as throughout the years there have been attempts to make Daylight Saving Time permanent throughout the U.S. As Breitbart News’s Joel Pollak previously reported , in March 2022, the Senate passed a bill by Sen. Marco Rubio (R-FL), called the Sunshine Protection Act. Under the bill, summer time zones would be permanent. The Hill reported that while “most” of the nation has “observed” Daylight Saving Time since the 1960s, former President Woodrow Wilson is reported to have introduced Daylight Saving Time in 1918.AP News Summary at 1:32 p.m. ESTCollaborative seeks to change children's lives through genetics

GuestSnap Launches Innovative Platform for Effortless Wedding Photo Sharing 12-24-2024 12:02 AM CET | Business, Economy, Finances, Banking & Insurance Press release from: ABNewswire Did you know that QR codes are expected to be used by over 5 billion people worldwide by 2025? What started as a tool for tracking inventory has now become a game-changer in many industries, from retail to weddings. Today, QR codes are changing how businesses connect with customers, making things easier, more engaging, and more efficient. This shift isn't just a trend-it's a permanent move toward digital, with QR codes playing a key role in boosting both customer satisfaction and business growth. Industries like retail, food and beverage, real estate, events, and weddings are using QR codes to meet specific needs and enhance customer experiences. For example, a QR code for wedding pictures [ https://www.guestsnap.com/wedding-photo-sharing ] allows guests to easily access and share photos without the usual hassle. By looking at how QR codes are applied, we can see their growing role in business and the benefits they bring to various sectors. Retail: A New Shopping Experience QR codes enhance the shopping experience by giving customers quick access to product details, exclusive discounts, and loyalty programs. By scanning codes on products or ads, shoppers can easily find information like ingredients, instructions, and prices, helping them make informed choices. Using these codes also makes shopping more enjoyable. Customers can read reviews and access special offers right on their phones. This creates a more interactive shopping experience, especially for tech-savvy shoppers. Retailers gain valuable details into customer preferences, which helps them create personalized marketing. Weddings: Simplifying Photo Sharing QR codes are becoming popular at weddings, making it easy for guests to share photos. Couples often create unique codes that link to online albums, allowing guests to upload and exchange photos from the event. This digital solution not only simplifies photo management but also encourages guest participation. The shared albums create a sense of community, giving the couple a variety of memories from different perspectives. Guests can quickly add their candid shots, making sure no moment goes unnoticed. Using technology in this way adds a modern twist to wedding traditions, increasing engagement and connection among family and friends. Food and Beverage: Streamlining Menus and Ordering QR codes in restaurants and cafes are making the ordering process faster and improving customer experiences. Scanning the codes lets customers view digital menus with details on items, ingredients, and prices, all without touching physical menus. This change supports hygiene, especially in a post-pandemic world where minimizing contact is important for both businesses and customers. QR codes do more than just show the menu; they let customers order and pay straight from their phones. This makes things run smoother in busy restaurants, allowing staff to focus on preparing food and providing service instead of handling transactions. Real Estate: Virtual Tours Made Easy Using QR codes in real estate makes it easier for buyers to explore properties. Placed on for-sale signs, these codes allow quick scans that lead to detailed property info, like pricing, square footage, and key features. QR codes can also link to images and video tours, giving potential buyers a better sense of the space without needing to visit in person. This saves time and expands the reach of listings, making it easier for people to compare options. More than just a marketing tool [ https://www.forbes.com/councils/forbesagencycouncil/2022/09/21/marketing-with-qr-codes/ ], QR codes represent a move toward using technology to simplify and improve the home-buying experience. Events and Entertainment: Connecting Guests Effortlessly QR codes are transforming how people experience events like concerts, festivals, and conferences. By scanning the codes, attendees can enter without physical tickets, speeding up entry and reducing wait times. This makes for a smoother flow of visitors and helps organizers manage crowds, improving the overall event experience. QR codes also give attendees easy access to schedules, maps, and live updates during the event. This keeps guests informed about sessions, performances, and any changes. Networking is also easier with QR codes, as attendees can share their social media profiles and quickly exchange contact information. QR codes have emerged as a versatile tool that enhances convenience and engagement across multiple industries. From transforming retail shopping and streamlining food service to simplifying real estate transactions and enriching event experiences, their applications are wide-ranging and impactful. In weddings, QR codes add a modern, interactive touch, making photo sharing seamless and inclusive. Their ability to provide instant access to information, services, and connections highlights their adaptability in meeting diverse needs. As businesses and individuals continue adopting QR technology, it's clear that these small codes are leaving a significant mark on how we interact, shop, celebrate, and stay informed in an increasingly digital world. Media Contact Company Name: Guestsnap Contact Person: Mike Hassy Email:Send Email [ https://www.abnewswire.com/email_contact_us.php?pr=guestsnap-launches-innovative-platform-for-effortless-wedding-photo-sharing ] City: New York Country: United States Website: https://www.guestsnap.com This release was published on openPR.Phillies have no plans to start pitching prospect Andrew Painter in spring training following injury

FREIBURG, Germany (AP) — Freiburg survived a late comeback to beat Wolfsburg 3-2 and move into fifth place in the Bundesliga on Friday. The sides started the day equal on points and Wolfsburg had won its last five games in the league and cup. But Lukas Kübler scored an opportunist opener three minutes before the break and added a second with his head six minutes into the second half to put Freiburg in the driving seat. Michael Gregoritsch added the third in the 62nd. Jonas Wind came off the bench to score his third goal in two games and Mattias Svanberg cut the deficit seven minutes from time as Wolfsburg desperately looked for a way into the game. But it was too late, and Freiburg moved above Wolfsburg to fifth place on the table and equal on points with Leipzig, which has a game in hand. The match was an important one for two teams vying for a Champions League place next year. Although Bayern Munich have a six-point advantage over second-placed Eintracht Frankfurt, only eight points separate the next nine clubs. AP soccer: https://apnews.com/hub/soccerBiden faces ballooning criticism over unexplained drone sightings

Mysterious googly eyes go viral after appearing on public art in OregonTrump’s lawyers rebuff DA’s idea for upholding his hush money conviction, calling it ‘absurd’

Trump again calls to buy Greenland after eyeing Canada and the Panama CanalUpgraded injury status positive sign for RB Breece Hall's Week 15 availability | Sporting News

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Back to their roots! The Swire Shipping Fijian Drua kept tradition with their pre-season training in connecting with ordinary Fijians. The side had a training stint on Kadavu, and it was a special kind of pre-season experience for the boys. Stepping foot on Kadavu was an experience like none other for these players. I commend the team management for taking their pre-season camp to Namalata Central School ground on Kadavu. The boys experienced something different going to the village, training somewhere different, reconnecting with the people, the land and the hospitality, which was unreal. Those with roots in Kadavu expressed delight as they connected with their families and their villages. The team bonding exercise boosted the morale of the players ahead of their opening battle against the Brumbies. Choosing Kadavu as part of their pre-season and community engagement for the year will also boost Kadavu Rugby. Vinaka vakalevu Drua! Rajnesh Ishwar Lingam, Nadawa, Nasinu Christmas present The Christmas season is meant to bring hope and peace to everyone. On Jesus birthday don’t forget to give Jesus a gift. What does he want? The scriptures say: “As you have done the least of these, so also have you done unto me.” So Jesus would want you to give unto the least of these. That is those who have little or nothing. This Christmas, give something to someone who needs it. Feed the hungry. Clothe the naked. Show love to the lonely. Blessings go forward. God bless you and your family and have a Merry Christmas. Wise Muavono, Balawa, Lautoka Encouragement Many are heading into this holiday season facing challenges that might not be obvious. For some, it’s their first Christmas in recovery again, and for others, the struggle is still very real. While many are celebrating with loved ones, there are those who are navigating pain, loss, and the weight of their journey. This season, let’s remember that what seems like a joyful time can be deeply difficult for others. Be kind, be patient, offer a listening ear, a word of encouragement, or a resource they may not know about. Never know how your small act can make a big difference in someone’s life. Merry Christmas and happy holidays! NAVNEET RAM (TD), Lautoka No snow NO sleigh rides, no snow, no reindeers, no mistletoe, No chimney for Santa Claus, no freezing winter and staying indoors. No snow-laden fir trees, no totally white scenery, No building snowmen, by warmly wrapped children. It’s just hot and humid, often raining when it shouldn’t have. Just a myriad of bright colours, in Fiji, our island home like no other! Edward Blakelock, Admirals Circle, Pacific Harbour Human factor The distraught picture of 83-year-old Satya Wati who faces losing her home through lawful eviction along with 200 other squatter families and the empathetic editorial ‘The human factor!’ on their pitiful plight (The Sunday Times 22/12) gives us an insight into the human cost of the war in Gaza with thousands losing their homes through indiscriminate Israeli bombardment. Rajend Naidu, Sydney, Australia Merry Christmas As we celebrate with our friends, relatives neighbours, socially we pray for peace and prosperity for all mankind. The new challenges and approaches are always prioritised with safety and care. We can achieve by understanding, forgiving and reconciliations. Merry Christmas with safe festive season. God bless us all. Tahir Ali, Hamilton, New Zealand Did they think about this? Did the terrorists ever think about what would happen after their deadly attack on defenceless men, women and children on October 7 last year? Killing so many innocent civilians and taking so many more hostages was the key to opening Pandora’s box. And now thousands more innocent civilians in Gaza have paid the price for the senseless slaughter of October 7. No one will win this war. There are no victors in senseless slaughter. Only victims. The ground cries with the blood of innocent victims on both sides of the border. Colin Deoki , Australia EV tax Finance Minister Professor Biman Prasad’s flippant remarks on the tax on EV (electric vehicles), and the wider renewable energy policies, cannot be left unchallenged. If he wasn’t speaking as the Minister of Finance, responsible for Fiji’s policy settings, one would have disregarded his comments as uninformed and naive if not extremely detrimental to Fiji’s and SIDS positions on climate change actions. He’s harping on about adaptation priority. I agree but he should also learn that taking such actions to respond to issues related to energy security is part of the adaptation strategies, with mitigation co-benefits. What is the harm in reducing Fiji’s dependence on imported expensive fossil fuels and improving our balance sheet, leaving more money for other priorities such as education, health, infrastructure etc. He brags about Fiji having 55 percent renewable energy as part of its mix without admitting that this is due largely to our huge hydropower investment in Monasavu, taken by a more progressive government almost four decades ago? How much solar energy is in the mix and how much has been added since the current Coalition came into power? I wish the minister pays more attention to the suggestions from the private sector which will be important partners in our quest to tackle climate change, given that the Government has no additional resources for this and is still in the rhetoric mode on climate finance. Perhaps Mr Narube, in his opinion pieces, has a point in relation to the minister’s suitability in leading Fiji’s charge on climate change. He has a lot to learn and understand. Altauf Chand, Minto, Australia Thank you As a good, caring and corporate citizen, I thank Digicel Fiji for bearing gifts to the elderly and the vulnerable in society; the residents of the Father Law Home. Thank you for the care supplies, ongoing Sky Pacific and Unwired services to the home. Thank you CEO Farid Mohammed and your exemplary team for your kindness and generosity. You lighten the work of care-giving for the elderly. Bahut shukriya, Sarkar Ji aur staff. Thank you for your Good Samaritan-ship. Sincere thanks must go too to the Digicel staff members who sacrificed their precious time during the fourth week in Advent for cleaning the Father Law Home. This is so noble. Thank you also for the nourishing lunch provided including groceries, hygiene products and T-shirts for every resident. Thank you also for bringing smiles to each resident. They have almost nowhere else to turn to. Sincere thanks are also accorded to the hardworking board members and staff of the Father Law Home for your endless hours of sacrifice caring for the elderly in our community. Every special blessing and protection be yours each passing day. Here’s sending you all Christmas cheers during this festive season. As a kai Nadi and senior citizen, (and an advocate for the home), I appeal to other good corporate entities to lend a helping hand to the home in 2025 and beyond. Many hands lighten the burdens. Ronnie Chang , Martintar, Nadi Using Xmas! WHEN we use “Xmas”, we take Jesus Christ out of Christmas and out of our lives, coz “X” replaces “Christ.” Often forgotten, is that He is the real reason, for this season, and it’s not about materialism. Edward Blakelock, Admirals Circle, Pacific Harbour Value for money Is there any health and hygiene standards or checks in place for meat being sold commercially? I recall passing through several butchers and supermarkets, downtown Suva and Nadi, on my last trip home. It appeared that some are selling meat which does not appear to have a pleasant smell and neither does it look promising. If there are standards, then one wonders when and how often these are enforced? All in all, if customers engage in fair transactions when it comes to purchase of meat, then they have every right to demand value for money. Floyd Robinson, Micronesia FNPF records Vinaka Mr Derrick Wadman for your ‘FNPF has a solution’ letter (FT 23/12). Hoping some board member(s) reads it. I’d be interested to know if the FNPF keeps a library file/index/record/archive of every FS and FT article/letter on the FNPF. Similar is maintained by the USP Library’s Pacific Collection on articles/information relating to the USP and proven very useful for researchers. The solution for pensioners who were unjustly treated certainly lies among those articles! Elizabeth Reade Fong, Suva Who’s he protecting? WHO is PM Rabuka protecting, fearful of or taking advice from that makes him gullible to set things right and straight within his three wheeler Coalition Government while the people who voted for change are left in the dark? AREKI DAWAI, Suva Earthquake We can’t fight mother nature, but we’re standing with our neighbours in Vanuatu. Even though Fiji’s small, it’s a big deal that they’re ready to help however they can. Jaheed Buksh, Sigatoka Bula Boys To give Fiji a fighting chance in the FIFA World Cup qualifier semi-final against New Zealand in New Zealand in early 2025, no effort should be spared in the Bula Boys’ preparation. We certainly don’t want anything like the 1-8 hiding New Zealand gave Vanuatu in their WC qualifier in November 2024. The Bula Boys must be able to hold their heads high with their performance against a superior NZ side. Rajend Naidu, Sydney, Australia Christmas party Will the prime minister hold another Christmas Party this year for any unspent budget allocation like he did this time last year at the Grand Pacific Hotel? It is important that he spend the money on themselves in case “it is lost forever”. He always gets the priorities right. Jan Nissar, Sydney, NSW, Australia.Here's How Much $100 Invested In MSCI 10 Years Ago Would Be Worth Today

SUGAR LAND, Texas, Dec. 23, 2024 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) -- Applied Optoelectronics, Inc. AAOI (" AOI ," " we ," " us " or " our ") announced today that it has closed its exchange with holders (the " Noteholders ") of its 5.25% Convertible Senior Notes due 2026 (the " 2026 Notes ") of approximately $76.7 million principal amount of the 2026 Notes for (i) $125 million aggregate principal amount of 2.75% Convertible Senior Notes due 2030 (the " 2030 Notes "), (ii) 1,487,874 shares of our common stock (the " Exchange Shares ") and (iii) approximately $89.6 thousand in cash representing accrued interest on the 2026 Notes and the value of fractional shares (such transactions, collectively, the " Exchanges "). The 2030 Notes are our senior, unsecured obligations and are equal in right of payment with our existing and future senior, unsecured indebtedness, senior in right of payment to our existing and future indebtedness that is expressly subordinated to the 2030 Notes and effectively subordinated to our existing and future secured indebtedness, to the extent of the value of the collateral securing that indebtedness. The 2030 Notes bear interest at a rate of 2.75% per year, payable semiannually in arrears on January 15 and July 15 of each year, beginning on July 15, 2025. The 2030 Notes will mature on January 15, 2030, unless earlier repurchased, redeemed or converted. The 2030 Notes are convertible at the option of holders of the 2030 Notes under certain specified circumstances, as set forth in the indenture governing the 2030 Notes. We will settle conversions by paying or delivering, as applicable, cash, shares of our common stock or a combination of cash and shares of our common stock, at our election, based on the applicable conversion rate. The initial conversion rate is approximately 23.0884 shares of our common stock per $1,000 principal amount of 2030 Notes, representing an initial conversion price of approximately $43.31 per share of our common stock, an approximately 27.50% premium to the closing price of our common stock on December 18, 2024. If a Make-Whole Fundamental Change (as defined in the indenture governing the 2030 Notes) occurs, and in connection with certain other conversions, we will in certain circumstances increase the conversion rate for a specified period of time. Except in connection with the completion of the Specified Divestiture (as described below), we may not redeem the 2030 Notes prior to January 15, 2027. On or after January 15, 2027, and on or before the 40 th scheduled trading day immediately before the maturity date, we may redeem all or part of the 2030 Notes for cash if the last reported sale price per share of our common stock exceeds 130% of the conversion price on (i) each of at least 20 trading days, whether or not consecutive, during the 30 consecutive trading days ending on, and including, the trading day immediately before the date we send the related redemption notice; and (ii) the trading day immediately before the date we send such redemption notice, at a cash redemption price equal to the principal amount of the 2030 Notes to be redeemed, plus accrued and unpaid interest, if any. Holders may require us to repurchase their 2030 Notes upon the occurrence of a Fundamental Change (as defined in the indenture governing the 2030 Notes) at a cash purchase price equal to the principal amount thereof plus accrued and unpaid interest, if any. In addition, the 2030 Notes will be redeemable, in whole or in part, at our option at any time, and from time to time, on or before the 40 th scheduled trading day immediately before the maturity date, at a cash redemption price equal to the principal amount of the 2030 Notes to be redeemed, plus accrued and unpaid interest, if any, to, but excluding, the redemption date, if the "Specified Divestiture" (as defined in the indenture governing the 2030 Notes) is completed. If the Specified Divestiture is completed, each holder will have the right to require us to repurchase its 2030 Notes for cash at a repurchase price equal to 100% of the principal amount of such 2030 Notes to be repurchased, plus accrued and unpaid interest, if any, to, but excluding, the repurchase date. The issuance of the 2030 Notes, the Exchange Shares and the shares of our common stock issuable upon conversion of the 2030 Notes have not been registered under the Securities Act of 1933, as amended (the " Securities Act "), and the 2030 Notes, the Exchange Shares and such shares issuable upon conversion of the 2030 Notes may not be offered or sold without registration or an applicable exemption from the registration requirements of the Securities Act and applicable state or other jurisdictions' securities laws, or in transactions not subject to those registration requirements. Concurrently with the Exchanges, AOI issued an aggregate of 1,036,458 shares of common stock, at a purchase price of $33.97 per share, in a registered direct offering (the " Registered Direct Offering "). Estimated net proceeds from the Registered Direct Offering are approximately $33.7 million after deducting placement agent fees and estimated offering expenses incurred by us. We intend to use the net proceeds for general corporate purposes, which may include, among other things, capital expenditures and working capital. We may also use such proceeds to fund acquisitions of businesses, technologies or product lines that complement our current business; however, we have no present plans, agreements or commitments with respect to any potential acquisition. Stefan Murry, AOI's Chief Financial Officer and Chief Strategy Officer, stated that "AOI expects to benefit from the convertible debt exchange transactions and the concurrent registered direct offering by, among other things, extending our convertible debt from 2026 to 2030, reducing our existing interest expense and strengthening the cash position of our balance sheet by approximately $30.2 million through the registered direct offering. In addition, the convertible debt exchange transactions increase our financial flexibility by removing certain existing restrictive covenants in our 2026 Notes. We were able to execute these transactions with minimal additional dilution of approximately 0.5%, compared to the implied dilution of the shares underlying the 2026 Notes." The Registered Direct Offering was made pursuant to an automatic shelf registration statement on Form S-3ASR (Registration File No. 333-283905), which was filed with the U.S. Securities and Exchange Commission (the " SEC ") on December 18, 2024, and became effective immediately upon filing, including the prospectus contained therein, as supplemented by the prospectus supplement dated December 18, 2024 filed with the SEC pursuant to Rule 424(b) under the Securities Act on December 20, 2024. The prospectus supplement and accompanying prospectus relating to the Registered Direct Offering are available on the SEC's website at www.sec.gov . Raymond James & Associates, Inc. acted as AOI's exclusive financial advisor in connection with the Exchanges and acted as the sole placement agent in connection with the Registered Direct Offering. Haynes Boone LLP acted as legal advisor to AOI and Mayer Brown LLP acted as legal advisor to Raymond James & Associates, Inc., in connection with the Exchanges and the Registered Direct Offering. This press release is for informational purposes only and does not constitute an offer to sell or the solicitation of an offer to buy any securities, nor will there be any sale of any securities in any jurisdiction in which such offer, solicitation or sale would be unlawful. Forward-Looking Information This press release contains forward-looking statements within the meaning of the Private Securities Litigation Reform Act of 1995. In some cases, you can identify forward-looking statements by terminology such as "believe," "may," "estimate," "continue," "anticipate," "intend," "should," "could," "would," "target," "seek," "aim," "predicts," "think," "objectives," "optimistic," "new," "goal," "strategy," "potential," "is likely," "will," "expect," "plan" "project," "permit" or by other similar expressions that convey uncertainty of future events or outcomes. Such forward-looking statements reflect the views of management at the time such statements are made. These forward-looking statements involve risks and uncertainties, as well as assumptions and current expectations, which could cause our actual results to differ materially from those anticipated in such forward-looking statements. These risks and uncertainties include but are not limited to: reduction in the size or quantity of customer orders; change in demand for our products due to industry conditions; changes in manufacturing operations; volatility in manufacturing costs; delays in shipments of products; disruptions in the supply chain; change in the rate of design wins or the rate of customer acceptance of new products; our reliance on a small number of customers for a substantial portion of its revenues; potential pricing pressure; a decline in demand for our customers' products or their rate of deployment of their products; general conditions in the internet datacenter, cable television (CATV) broadband, telecom, or fiber-to-the-home (FTTH) markets; changes in the world economy (particularly in the United States and China); changes in the regulation and taxation of international trade, including the imposition of tariffs; changes in currency exchange rates; the negative effects of seasonality; the impact of any pandemics or similar events on our business and financial results; and other risks and uncertainties described more fully in our documents filed with or furnished to the SEC, including our Annual Report on Form 10-K for the year ended December 31, 2023 and our Quarterly Reports on Form 10-Q for the quarters ended March 31, 2024, June 30, 2024 and September 30, 2024. More information about these and other risks that may impact our business are set forth in the "Risk Factors" section of our quarterly and annual reports on file with the SEC. You should not rely on forward-looking statements as predictions of future events. All forward-looking statements in this press release are based upon information available to us as of the date hereof, and qualified in their entirety by this cautionary statement. Except as required by law, we assume no obligation to update forward-looking statements for any reason after the date of this press release to conform these statements to actual results or to changes in our expectations. About Applied Optoelectronics Applied Optoelectronics Inc. (AOI) is a leading developer and manufacturer of advanced optical products, including components, modules and equipment. AOI's products are the building blocks for broadband fiber access networks around the world, where they are used in the CATV broadband, internet datacenter, telecom and FTTH markets. AOI supplies optical networking lasers, components and equipment to tier-1 customers in all four of these markets. In addition to its corporate headquarters, wafer fab and advanced engineering and production facilities in Sugar Land, TX, AOI has engineering and manufacturing facilities in Taipei, Taiwan and Ningbo, China. Investor Relations Contacts: The Blueshirt Group, Investor Relations Monica Gould +1-212-871-3927 ir@ao-inc.com Cassidy Fuller +1-415-217-4968 ir@ao-inc.com © 2024 Benzinga.com. Benzinga does not provide investment advice. All rights reserved.A lawyer who is currently helping Robert F. Kennedy Jr. pick federal health officials once petitioned the Food and Drug Administration to revoke its approval for multiple critical childhood vaccines, including the polio vaccine. Aaron Siri, managing partner at Siri & Glimstad LLP, has a history of challenging the FDA to pause or completely withdraw various vaccines – a move which raises concerns given Kennedy’s historic anti-vaccine rhetoric. In 2022, Siri asked the FDA Commissioner, on behalf of the Informed Consent Action Network, to cease its use of the polio vaccine in infants and toddlers. The petition claimed the vaccine was not properly tested to ensure it was safe, despite its decade-long use protecting millions of children from contracting the disease which can cause paralysis. He filed a similar petition to withdraw a hepatitis B vaccine in children in 2020. In 2021, Siri asked the FDA, again on behalf of the Informed Consent Action Network, to pause its use of six childhood vaccines that protect against tetanus, diphtheria, pertussis and hepatitis A until they disclosed information about aluminum in them. It appears Siri already possesses a strong influence on Kennedy because he is helping him question and choose potential leaders for top federal health jobs. One person familiar with conversations told the New York Times , that the two have questioned potential candidates about their views on vaccines. The revelation, first reported by the New York Times , is alarming due to Kennedy’s status as the Health and Human Services secretary nominee. Kennedy already faces an uphill battle to get his nomination approved by the Senate because he has made anti-vaccine statements in the past and elevated health-related conspiracy theories. Many, including 75 Nobel Prize winners, have urged senators not to confirm him due to his criticisms of mainstream medicine. In the past, Kennedy has linked vaccines to autism – a debunked theory with no scientific or medical proof. He’s claimed that “no vaccine” is safe and effective – which is also false. He has also attributed mental health issues, like those that drive people to commit mass shootings, to pharmaceuticals. Both antidepressant use and mass shooting occurrences have increased in the last several decades, the scientific community has found “no biological plausibility” to back a link between the two, according to Ragy Girgis, an associate professor of clinical psychiatry at Columbia University, per the New York Times . Vaccines are proven to be a crucial and effective way to prevent the spread of deadly diseases. Kennedy has assured people he will not “take away” vaccines, as does Siri, and claims he is not anti-vax. But it is unclear what he will do with vaccines should he be confirmed. A spokesperson for Kennedy told the New York Times , “Mr. Kennedy has long said that he wants transparency in vaccines and to give people choice.”

NEW YORK >> Luigi Mangione, the 26-year-old man charged with murder in the killing of UnitedHealthcare’s CEO, pleaded not guilty today as he was arraigned in New York state Supreme Court. The Manhattan district attorney’s office has charged Mangione with first-degree murder, as well as two variations of second-degree murder and weapons charges. He faces the possibility of life in prison without parole on those charges. Mangione also faces federal charges that could result in the death penalty: The Southern District of New York charged him with murder through use of a firearm, as well as two stalking counts and a firearms offense. He pleaded not guilty to those charges last week. State prosecutors said in court filings that Mangione’s actions were meant to further terrorism and were “intended to intimidate or coerce a civilian population” and to “affect the conduct of a unit of government by murder.” Appearing in court today, his lawyer argued that his case had been politicized and expressed concern that he would not receive a fair trial. The state case is expected to go to trial before the federal one, said Edward Y. Kim, the acting U.S. attorney for the Southern District, and state prosecutors said they would coordinate with federal agencies. Mangione entered the courtroom for his arraignment today wearing a maroon sweater and light-colored pants. His wrists and ankles were shackled. During the hearing, his lawyer, Karen Friedman Agnifilo, told the judge she was concerned about her client’s right to a fair trial. “His rights are being violated,” she said. “He’s a young man, and he is being treated like a human pingpong ball between two warring jurisdictions,” she said, pointing to the federal and state cases and their differing arguments. She also described Mangione’s perp walk after he was extradited to New York last week, during which he was accompanied by Mayor Eric Adams, as “absolutely unnecessary” and “utterly political.” “What was the New York City mayor doing at this press conference?” she asked, adding that Adams, who faces bribery and fraud charges, “should know more than anyone about the presumption of innocence.” She pointed to a number of statements Adams had made publicly about the case, including that he wanted to look Mangione in the eye and say “you carried out this terroristic act in my city.” Friedman Agnifilo noted that he had not used the word “alleged,” and that his statements could be heard by “future, potential jurors.” Judge Gregory Carro responded that he had little control over what happened outside the courtroom but that he would guarantee that Mangione would receive a fair trial. “We will carefully select the jury,” Carro said. Joel J. Seidemann, a prosecutor, took issue with the decision to repeat Adams’ words in court. “I don’t know how that advances the ball,” he said. “We will comply with our ethical obligations with respect to trying this defendant’s guilt in this courtroom, in this courtroom alone.” Mangione’s next appearance in state court is scheduled for Feb. 21. The killing of CEO Brian Thompson renewed a debate about the American health care system. Many took to social media to voice their frustrations in their dealings with insurance companies and their practices of denying claims. Mangione became, to some, a folk hero. Spectators had gathered on the street in 11-degree weather by 6 a.m., hoping to get into the courtroom. A small group of protesters could be seen outside before the hearing began, and it had grown slightly by the time it was over. Some of them chanted, “Free Luigi!” One protester, Nicholas Zamudio, 33, held a sign that read: “United States Healthcare Stole My Livelihood. Prosecute Malicious Profiteers.” Zamudio, who lives in midtown Manhattan, described his experiences with the health care system as “atrocious” and said that the day Thompson was killed had been “a good day.” Zamudio said he had had spinal fusion surgery for back problems and could not afford the injections and other treatments he needed after the operation. He pointed to how Mangione had written in Reddit posts about his own experience with spinal fusion surgery and his painful back issues. “When he writes about things like not being able to lay down, not being able to sleep, that part resonates with me,” Zamudio said, adding that sometimes he can only sleep two to three hours a night. “You start losing your mind when that happens.” Thompson was walking to the entrance of a Hilton hotel in midtown Manhattan on the morning of Dec. 4 for an investor meeting when a masked and hooded gunman opened fire behind him. He was shot once in the back and once in the leg. Authorities have said it was Mangione who waited nearly an hour outside the hotel that morning and raised a 3D-printed 9 mm handgun fitted with a suppressor, known in generic terms as a silencer, and fired at Thompson. Mangione was arrested after a five-day search. He was spotted eating hash browns at a McDonald’s in Altoona, Pennsylvania, by a fellow customer who remarked to a friend that he looked like the person in photos that had been released by the New York Police Department. An employee overheard the conversation and alerted police. He was found with a handgun, a suppressor, ammunition and a fake identification card, as well as a 262-word handwritten manifesto in which he appeared to take responsibility for the shooting, authorities said. The manifesto also indicated that he saw the killing as a direct challenge to the health care industry’s “corruption” and “power games.” Mangione also faces five charges in Pennsylvania, including carrying a gun without a license, forgery, falsely identifying himself to authorities and possessing “instruments of crime,” according to a criminal complaint. This article originally appeared in The New York Times . © 2024 The New York Times CompanyMailbag: Why the Hotline is tough on Washington, Big Ten TV matters, options for the Pac-12, the SEC and the CFP and more

ROME — How is Santa Claus able to visit billions of homes around the world in a single night? He has help. The men and women serving at the Eastern Air Defense Sector on the Griffiss Business and Technology Park in Rome are on hand this Christmas Eve to help track Santa in his flight, a duty they have undertaken for decades. And they are only part of a larger tracking operation by NORAD. “EADS is always happy to support NORAD’s Santa tracking operation,” said Col. Joseph F. Roos, EADS Commander. “Our highly trained Airmen defend the homeland day and night, and they are prepared and ready to track Santa this December 24.” EADS, which is responsible for the air defense of the United States east of the Mississippi River, is composed of the New York Air National Guard’s 224th Air Defense Group, a Canadian Armed Forces detachment, U.S. Army and Navy liaison officers, and federal civilians and contractors. EADS also has a squadron and a detachment in the National Capital Region. The annual tracking operation involves radar systems, satellites, and fighter jets that work in tandem to follow Santa’s sleigh as it travels from the North Pole. Real-time updates are provided to eager children and families through NORAD’s official Santa Tracker website and hotline at www.norad santa.org. Trackin g is also available on Facebook and YouT ube. The tracking begins at 4 a.m. on Dec. 24. And starting at 6 a.m., children and parents can call to get updates on Santa’s journey by dialing 1-877-446-6723 to speak to a live phone operator or to hear a recorded update. The modern tradition of tracking Santa began in 1955 when a young child accidentally dialed the unlisted phone number of NORAD’s predecessor, the Continental Air Defense Command operations center. The Director of Operations, Colonel Harry Shoup, answered the phone and instructed his staff to check the radar for indications of Santa making his way south from the North Pole. A tradition was born and continued when NORAD was formed in 1958. Each year since, NORAD has dutifully reported Santa’s location on Dec. 24 to millions of children and families across the globe.

NEW YORK CITY, Dec. 13, 2024 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) -- On Thursday, November 21, 2024, the Minority Business Development Agency (MBDA) celebrated the achievements of the historic Capital Readiness Program (CRP) at the NASDAQ Tower in Times Square. Deputy Under Secretary of Commerce for Minority Business Development Eric Morrissette joined Capital Readiness Program awardees as they uplift underserved entrepreneurs across the nation. “One of the greatest obstacles facing underserved entrepreneurs is access to capital, which is why the CRP is so essential. With this landmark program, MBDA is working to address the root problem of that issue by supporting businesses and communities that have been historically overlooked or left behind,” said Deputy Under Secretary Eric Morrissette . “The CRP has and will continue to open doors for entrepreneurs looking to start and scale their businesses.” Since its inception in 2023, CRP awardees, incubators, and accelerators have already served 6,326 entrepreneurs and helped raise $263 million in capital, form 2,636 new businesses, develop 1,726 business pitches, and host 2,486 networking events for diverse business owners and entrepreneurs across America. Awardees in attendance included The U.S. Black Chambers, Inc., U.S. Hispanic Chamber of Commerce, Ventures, the Community Development Venture Capital Alliance, the National Minority Supplier Development Council, the National Urban League, the National Asian/Pacific Islander Chamber of Commerce, and the Eastern Shore Entrepreneurship Center. “The Capital Readiness Program has empowered the United States Hispanic Chamber of Commerce to unlock critical capital opportunities, driving growth for businesses and reshaping regional economies,” said USHCC Educational Fund Senior Vice President Evelyn Barahona, one of the awardees present at NASDAQ . “Through the program, we've catalyzed expansion and new ventures for small business owners, strengthening not only the Hispanic community but the nation's economy. Looking ahead to 2025 and beyond, the USHCC is excited to collaborate with the MBDA and partners to further elevate the possibilities for businesses across the country.” These centers have unique expertise to assist, and train underserved entrepreneurs seeking resources, tools, and technical assistance to start or scale their businesses in high-growth industries such as healthcare, climate resilient technology, asset management, infrastructure, and more. For more information on active Minority Business Development Agency initiatives, visit www.mbda.gov . About the Minority Business Development Agency (MBDA) The U.S. Department of Commerce, Minority Business Development Agency is the only Federal agency dedicated to the growth and global competitiveness of U.S. minority business enterprises (MBEs). For more than 50 years, MBDA’s programs and services have better equipped MBEs to create jobs, build scale and capacity, increase revenues, and expand regionally, nationally, and internationally. ### Attachment Press Release with PhotoHuge Australian crocodile made famous by cameo role in Crocodile Dundee dies

Us Weekly has affiliate partnerships. We receive compensation when you click on a link and make a purchase. Learn more! Here at Us Weekly , we’re huge fans of the rich mom aesthetic. When it comes to celebs who nail the effortlessly chic style, Sofia Richie-Grainge tops the list. When she’s not spilling the deets on her makeup routines and unknowingly spawning new dance trends, Grainge is a new mom to her six-month-old daughter, Eloise, who she shares with her husband, Elliot. The 26-year-old recently combined her passion for fashion with her love of motherhood for a brand-new collaboration with Amazon Essentials. Released in early December, Grainge’s collection features an assortment of comfy pieces for babies and toddlers. Grainge, celebrated the launch on Instagram writing, “Inspired by my own experience as a mom, I wanted to create pieces that felt classic, timeless and easy to reach for. I hope you love them all as much as Eloise and I do.” While the collection focuses primarily on children’s style and everyday needs, there are cute pieces for parents as well. With the holiday season in full swing, now is an ideal time to stock up on the collection whether you’re a new mom or still searching for holiday gifts. The collection features elevated pieces for adults that make the perfect stocking stuffers. We rounded up our top picks from the collection, read ahead to check them out! This cozy sweatshirt is perfect for the holiday season. The mid-weight top comes in pink, black and ivory. If you’re lounging around the house, you can style it with the matching sweatpants, but you can elevate it too. Looking to serve a more sofisticated look? Layer it over a crisp white collared shirt, pair it with jeans and penny loafers and you’re good to go! Get the Amazon Essentials x Sofia Grainge Crewneck for just $25 at Amazon! Please note, prices are accurate at the date of publication, December 13, 2024, but are subject to change. This soft, microfiber cami is perfect for breastfeeding mothers. It features breathable, stretchy fabric and an open neckline. This tank also doubles as a layering base that you can wear now that winter is quickly approaching! Get the Amazon Essentials x Sofia Grainge Micro-Ribbed Cropped Camisole for just $9 (originally $13) at Amazon ! Please note, prices are accurate at the date of publication, December 13, 2024, but are subject to change. There’s nothing like the comfort of butter-soft sweatpants. These loose-fitting joggers feature an elastic waistband for maximum comfort. Like the matching sweatshirt, these bottoms are ultra versatile. You can use them to channel edgy style with the help of a collared shirt, a blazer and combat boots! Get the Amazon Essentials x Sofia Grainge Relaxed Jogger for just $22 at Amazon! Please note, prices are accurate at the date of publication, December 13, 2024, but are subject to change. These cozy pajamas earned the title of No. 1 bestsellers. They’re just that comfortable and chic. The soft modal jersey fabric feels so nice on the skin. Plus, the top features a button-down detail, making it a perfect choice for breastfeeding mothers! Get the Amazon Essentials x Sofia Grainge Pajama Set for just $30 at Amazon! Please note, prices are accurate at the date of publication, December 13, 2024, but are subject to change. Check our latest news in Google News Check our latest news in Apple News Not quite what you’re looking for? Check out the rest of Sofia Grainge’s Amazon Essentials collection here and don’t forget about Amazon’s Daily Deals , where you can snag more great finds!

Social media users are misrepresenting a report released Thursday by the Justice Department inspector general's office, falsely claiming that it's proof the FBI orchestrated the Capitol riot on Jan. 6, 2021. The watchdog report examined a number of areas, including whether major intelligence failures preceded the riot and whether the FBI in some way provoked the violence. Claims spreading online focus on the report's finding that 26 FBI informants were in Washington for election-related protests on Jan. 6, including three who had been tasked with traveling to the city to report on others who were potentially planning to attend the events. Javascript is required for you to be able to read premium content. Please enable it in your browser settings.

Joe Burrow back to full practice, good to go for Sunday

Horoscope Today, December 24, 2024: Explore Astrological Insights For Your Zodiac Sign