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online game websites Atlanta Hawks soaring under Quin Snyder’s visionChris Kondrich wasn’t shocked to learn a sinkhole had opened a street away from his Upper Marguerite home in Unity. A former firefighter and longtime hazardous materials volunteer, Kondrich said he has seen plenty of mine-subsidence incidents. Kondrich lives on Lemmon Road, about a quarter-mile away from where Elizabeth Pollard, 64, of Unity, is believed to have been swallowed by a sinkhole Monday evening . She remained missing Wednesday evening. The woods surrounding the sinkhole show evidence of smaller mine collapses, Kondrich said. “You’ll just be walking and you’ll see ... a big circle 20 feet in diameter that’s sunk 5 feet, grass and weeds growing on it,” he said. “That’s commonplace here.” Kondrich, 64, has paid for mine-subsidence insurance for his home for more than 30 years. The township surrounds Latrobe, and it’s located between Greensburg and Ligonier. Though it used to be made up of old coal mining towns, Kondrich said Unity is now mostly residential, but it still has a lot of agriculture. “I think there’s always a concern,” he said of having to purchase the insurance. “If they’re gonna sell it to you, that means there was mining done in your area and something like this is possible.” Pennsylvanians can check their address in Penn State’s online mine map atlas and the DEP’s mine subsidence insurance map to see if their property sits above abandoned mines. The sinkhole opened in a grassy area behind Monday’s Union Restaurant. Investigators believe Pollard drove to the parking lot behind the restaurant, spoke with two hunters, handed them a flyer about her missing cat and walked into in the adjacent field when a sinkhole opened beneath her. Unity’s mining history The Pennsylvania Department of Environmental Protection’s Bureau of Mine Safety was dispatched to the scene early Tuesday. Officials said they suspect the sinkhole was caused by the abandoned Marguerite Mine, which was last operated by H.C. Frick Coke Co. in 1952. The coal seam is about 20 feet from the surface, spokesperson Lauren Camarda said. Westmoreland County is one of the state’s 29 counties where underground coal mining has occurred, she said. Merle Musick, building code official with Unity, said the former entrance to the Marguerite Mine was a dilapidated red building near the sinkhole. “Western Pennsylvania’s full of mines, and not all of them are mapped,” he said. “All these little towns, they sprung up — they’re called (coal) patch towns,” Kondrich said. Ongoing search Pollard was reported missing at 1 a.m. Tuesday, and crews have been working nonstop since about 3:30 a.m. Tuesday to locate her. A camera dropped into the sinkhole revealed a shoe about 25 feet below ground level. The search in the sinkhole paused briefly Wednesday until it was better stabilized, but Mike O’Barto, chairman of Unity supervisors, confirmed it has resumed. “Since then, they have stabilized the hole or the situation, and they are currently digging some of the dirt out,” he said. “I do know that they were going to use some different technology such as drones, such as imaging, to see if they can indeed find Elizabeth Pollard.” Kondrich arrived at Monday’s Union Restaurant around lunchtime Wednesday to deliver food for those working on the scene. “The incident took place here on the property of Monday’s restaurant, but it’s not their responsibility to feed us,” he said. His donation was 100 pieces of chicken from Giant Eagle, which joined the donuts, coffee, hoagies, pizza and other offerings already available for the responders. There hasn’t been an organized effort to supply the food and drinks or any sort of push via social media; Kondrich said people have just shown up to help without being asked. “I think it’s just the community sense of responsibility or sense of need to help that people want to do something,” Kondrich said. “The responders ... they need to eat, they need stuff to drink, they need to stay warm.” When Kondrich was on the scene Tuesday night into Wednesday, he said there were at least 120 people working. “Monday’s is being gracious opening up their establishment here for a warm place to sit and have something to eat,” he said. Prior to showing up with chicken, Kondrich asked the restaurant on Wednesday what people had already donated so as not to bring duplicates. “I actually stopped in and said, ‘What do you need?’” Kondrich said. “I would say the best thing to do is to call.” Mining concerns Unity was a longtime hotspot for coal mines, O’Barto said, and the sinkhole has caused a stir among residents. “There are a lot of people in the community that have concerns that if they live close — especially to an area that had coal mines at one time,” he said. “That’s one of the reasons why we need to look at these areas, so a situation like this never happens again.” The main course of action should be talking to Pennsylvania lawmakers and mine safety organizations, O’Barto said. “We have to get together with our state legislators to see what type of funding may be out there to prevent something like this from happening again,” he said. As a Unity homeowner, O’Barto said the situation concerns him personally. “There have been sinkholes before, and they were cases that would come up every so often, but never one where a person fell into one,” he said. “My heart goes out to the family.”

From Health-Empowering Practices to More Eco-Smart Products, Explore the Top Trends Shaping Wellness, Beauty, Home Essentials, and Cooking for the Year Ahead LAKEWOOD, Colo. , Dec. 2, 2024 /PRNewswire/ -- Natural Grocers®, America's Nutrition Education Experts SM and the nation's largest family-operated organic and natural grocery retailer, has unveiled its highly anticipated Top Trends for 2025 . Now in its ninth year, the list highlights expert predictions on the emerging products and practices set to shape the year across four key categories: Health and Wellness , Body Care and Beauty , Food and Beverage , and those that are Ecologically Thoughtful . For the 2025 predictions, Natural Grocers' expert Nutrition Education team—including Registered Dietitians and Certified Natural Foods Chefs—joined forces with its purchasing, marketing, and analytics teams. This dynamic collaboration combined deep research, consumer insights, and trend analysis to craft a forecast that's as informed as it is exciting. "At Natural Grocers , we're always eager to see how evolving trends inspire healthier, more sustainable lifestyles," stated Raquel Isely , vice president of Marketing at Natural Grocers. "Each year we sift through evolving shopping habits and cutting-edge research to pinpoint the trends that will shape the way we live, eat, and care for ourselves in the year to come. "For 2025, we're seeing a focus on simple, yet thoughtful choices that prioritize wellness and the planet—like making blood sugar-friendly habits part of everyday life, exploring ocean-inspired body care, and embracing high-quality, globally-inspired proteins. These trends aren't just exciting—they're impactful, and some can make fabulous, practical holiday gifts! Whether it's a functional, natural skincare product geared towards men, a regenerative agriculture-friendly treat, or a product that helps kick forever chemicals out of the home, there's something meaningful for everyone on your list this season." NATURAL GROCERS' TOP TRENDS FOR 2025 Natural Grocers' Top Trends for 2025 are organized into four key categories: Health & Wellness , Body Care & Beauty , Food & Beverage , and Ecologically Thoughtful , encompassing a total of twelve trends. The expert team has included its "Try This Trend" feature, offering ideas and products for those eager to dive in and explore. For the third consecutive year, the company has also introduced a Bonus Trend—a unique highlight that connects and complements the entire lineup. The full list of trends is outlined below, with each category linked to detailed insights, product recommendations, and supporting research on the company's website. HEALTH & WELLNESS TRENDS BODY CARE & BEAUTY TRENDS FOOD & BEVERAGE TRENDS ECOLOGICALLY THOUGHTFUL TRENDS *BONUS TREND* Cultivating Biodiversity Becomes a Priority Natural Grocers will highlight these trends online and across their social media platforms throughout December. They will also be featured in the January edition of Natural Grocers' good4u Health Hotline® magazine, available in both online and print formats. ABOUT NATURAL GROCERS BY VITAMIN COTTAGE Founded in 1955, Natural Grocers by Vitamin Cottage, Inc. (NYSE: NGVC) is an expanding specialty retailer of natural and organic groceries, body care products, and dietary supplements. The products sold by Natural Grocers must meet strict quality guidelines and may not contain artificial colors, flavors, preservatives or sweeteners, or partially hydrogenated or hydrogenated oils. The Company sells only USDA-certified organic produce and exclusively pasture-raised, non-confinement dairy products, and free-range eggs. Natural Grocers' flexible smaller-store format allows it to offer affordable prices in a shopper-friendly, clean, and convenient retail environment. The Company also provides extensive free science-based Nutrition Education programs to help customers and Crew make informed health and nutrition choices. Natural Grocers is committed to its 5 Founding Principles —including its "Commitment to Community" and "Commitment to Crew". In fiscal year 2024, the Company invested more than $15 million in incremental compensation and discretionary payments for Crew. Headquartered in the Union Square neighborhood of Lakewood, CO, Natural Grocers has 168 stores in 21 states. Visit www.naturalgrocers.com for more information and store locations. View original content to download multimedia: https://www.prnewswire.com/news-releases/natural-grocers-unveils-2025s-must-know-trends-302320141.html SOURCE Natural Grocers by Vitamin Cottage, Inc.Real Madrid suffered a 2-1 LaLiga defeat at Athletic Bilbao as Kylian Mbappe missed from the penalty spot again. Alex Berenguer prodded the hosts ahead after 53 minutes before Mbappe – who failed to convert a Champions League penalty against Liverpool last week – sent his kick too close to Bilbao goalkeeper Julen Agirrezabala. Jude Bellingham appeared to have rescued a point for Real after scoring for the fourth successive league game 12 minutes from time. 📸 PORTERAZO. JULEN, JULEN! JULEN JULEN! #AthleticRealMadrid #AthleticClub 🦁 pic.twitter.com/w260s6xo79 — Athletic Club (@AthleticClub) December 4, 2024 But Federico Valverde’s mistake two minutes later gifted Gorka Guruzeta the winner in front of a delirious San Mames crowd. On a busy night of second-round Copa del Rey action, Villarreal suffered a shock 1-0 defeat at Pontevedra while there were wins for Real Betis, Rayo Vallecano and Valencia. Fiorentina went out of the Coppa Italia to Empoli on penalties on an emotional night at Stadio Artemio Franchi. Viola were back in action after Edoardo Bove’s health scare forced their weekend league fixture with Inter Milan to be abandoned during the first half. Midfielder Bove collapsed on the pitch and required emergency medical treatment. He was taken to hospital but regained consciousness in intensive care. Esposito's penalty books Empoli's place in the next round 💪 #FiorentinaEmpoli pic.twitter.com/UUxghH9l6b — Lega Serie A (@SerieA_EN) December 4, 2024 Empoli led at half-time through Emmanuel Ekong’s fourth-minute opener before Moise Kean and Riccardo Sottil put Fiorentina ahead. Sebastiano Esposito struck 15 minutes from time to make it 2-2 and take the last-16 tie into extra time, Empoli eventually winning 4-3 on penalties. Benjamin Sesko opened the scoring and Luis Openda struck twice as RB Leipzig brushed aside Eintracht Frankfurt 3-0 in the German DFB Pokal. Second-half goals from Denis Vavro, Jonas Wind and Yannick Gerhardt saw Wolfsburg beat Hoffenheim 3-0. Cologne knocked out Hertha Berlin 2-1 after extra time with Dejan Ljubicic converting a penalty in the final seconds, while Augsburg prevailed 5-4 on penalties against Karlsruhe after a 2-2 draw.New novel "Secretary of Faith" by K.C. Boyd is released, a dystopian tale that reflects the urgent need to resist the threat to American democracy

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Report: Apple seemingly wants to ditch Qualcomm in iPhones over the next three years

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Ottawa mayor Mark Sutcliffe says he's disappointed in the amount of "misinformation" surrounding a plan to erect tent-like structures to accommodate hundreds of migrants in the city, a proposal that has been suggested to alleviate the city's overburdened shelter system. Sutcliffe spoke on a variety of issues in a year-end interview with CTV News, including the migrant crisis affecting municipalities across the country. Ottawa continues to face significant challenges in accommodating newcomers and refugees in the city, with a lack of temporary and permanent housing adding pressure to immigration support services and shelters. The city has proposed building at least one modular structure to be used as a newcomer reception centre at 1645 Woodroffe Ave. by the end of 2025 that could sleep up to 150 people inside. A second site in Kanata, at the Eagleson Park and Ride, would be used if the Woodroffe site proves insufficient to meet demand. The issue has proven to be polarizing, with some residents organizing large protests in opposition to the structures, raising concerns over crime and a lack of support services available in their neighbourhoods. An information session held last month to describe the project erupted into chaos after a man rushed the stage during the presentation. When asked if he regretted the way the city handled the communication with residents on the structures, Sutcliffe reiterated his support of the proposal, calling the current migrant situation "untenable" with local community centres being closed to temporarily support migrants and shelters that are at capacity. "I'm not happy about the amount of misinformation that's out there about what's going on. This is not a municipal responsibility. It's not municipal dollars that are going towards this solution. It's a federal issue and we're simply the people who are providing the solution because somebody has to," he said. "We can't have people sleeping outside, we can't have people sleeping in community centres. We need to return those community centres to those neighbourhoods and have a proper welcome centre for new arrivals to the country." He said there are several solutions in place for newcomers in many different parts of the city. "We are here simply to provide support and services to whatever new arrivals come into Ottawa so we're in a challenging position. We don't get to make the decisions about immigration, but we are here to respond to what is a migrant crisis around the world," he said. The City of Ottawa says there are 600 asylum seekers currently using Ottawa's shelter spaces. City staff say the newcomer reception centre is "intended to provide a more dignified option for newcomers who are currently sleeping on bunk beds in recreational facilities that have not been designed for human habitation." The planned structure is expected to have on-site services such as translation and asylum claim assistance. Residents would be able to stay inside the structures for up to 90 days, where they will be offered services to effectively transition into the community. If permanent housing has not been secured after 90 days, clients will move to other transitional housing facilities. Sutcliffe says city staff continue to work on a plan to open the first structure in early 2025 but says federal dollars will be needed to pay for it. He says only a small amount of municipal funds will be used for infrastructure needs. 'A long way to go' for ByWard Market revitalization, housing starts The mayor also spoke on plans to revitalize the ByWard Market ahead of its 200th birthday in 2027. The city is undertaking a $129 million plan to guide the market's evolution as business owners and residents continue to express concerns over homelessness and public safety in the area. Sutcliffe says he has heard positive feedback from business owners but said there is still work to be done. "We're making progress, but we still have a long way to go. We all want the ByWard Market to be what it was in the past — a real gathering place for the city, a real source of pride," he said. The provincial government announced earlier this month that it would be investing $20 million into the market, which includes funds to transform William Street into a pedestrian-only corridor and developing a "cultural and entertainment district." The Ottawa Police Service unveiled its new CORE strategy this year, which included the opening of a new police hub in the Rideau Centre and increased foot-patrols in certain crime "hot spots." The ByWard Market District Authority unveiled a new synthetic skating rink and winter market this year to attract residents to the area during the holiday season. Housing a priority for the city When asked what other issues he will be focused on this year, Sutcliffe said housing was top of mind for him and a big priority for the city while adding that more work needs to be done to build more. While the latest statistics have shown a boost in housing starts this year, the number of new homes under construction in the capital is 14 per cent lower than last year, according to a CMHC report. Housing experts have blamed the problem on higher interest rates in recent years and an increase in development fees for builders. "It's a very challenging, complicated file but we need to do more work to streamline our processes at the city of Ottawa and make it easier for homes to be approved," Sutcliffe said. "At the same time, we need the developers to build the homes that have already been approved. We've approved tens of thousands of homes of homes already that are still not being built by the developers that own those properties." When will the skateway open? The top-of-mind question for many residents this year is whether the Rideau Canal will be open for skating this winter. Sutcliffe wouldn't speculate on an opening date but said he hopes there will be more skating this year than the past two seasons. "Theres no question that that's become a big issue," he said. "It's amazing to me when I meet people from all over the world, one of the things they identify with Ottawa is the Rideau Canal and being able to skate on it during the winter. It's a real shame that we have only been able to have it open for a few days the last two winters." Sutcliffe says the city has faced several challenges this year but said he's optimistic about the future. He added he was proud of the amount of collaboration and consensus on city council, noting it has been better than previous terms. "I promised in 2022 that I would work very hard for the people of Ottawa every single day – I've done that. We've faced some big challenges this year, but we've accomplished a lot working together," he said. "At this time of year, I'm reflecting on how lucky I am to be the mayor, how lucky we are to live in Ottawa. It's a wonderful, kind, generous community." Shopping Trends The Shopping Trends team is independent of the journalists at CTV News. We may earn a commission when you use our links to shop. Read about us. Editor's Picks 10 Family Calendars And Planners That'll Help You Keep Track Of Everything In The New Year Our Guide To The Best Winter Boots You Can Get In Canada 16 Cozy Home Essentials That Cost Less Than $100 Home Our Guide To The Best Snow Shovels In Canada In 2024 (And Where To Get Them) 14 Of The Best Home Security Devices You Can Find Online Right Now (And They've Got The Reviews To Prove It) 13 Of The Best Fidget Toys For Adults Gifts The Clock Is Ticking — Shop These 25 Last-Minute Amazon Prime Gifts Now If You Have An Amazon Prime Account, These 70+ Crowd-Pleasing Gifts Will Still Arrive Before Christmas If You Have An Amazon Prime Account, These 50 Brilliant Stocking Stuffers Will Still Arrive Before Christmas Beauty 20 Products Your Dry, Dehydrated Skin Will Thank You For Ordering 14 Hydrating Face Masks That’ll Save Your Skin This December 12 Budget-Friendly Products To Add To Your Winter Skincare Routine Deals 50+ Of The Best Amazon Canada Boxing Day Sales, Deals, And Discounts For 2024 The Altitude Sports Boxing Day Sale Has Begun — Here's What We're Shopping For PSA: The Michael Kors Boxing Week Sale Is Happening Right Now Ottawa Top Stories PART 2 | Ottawa mayor speaks on Sprung structures, challenges facing the city in year-end interview OPP and Ottawa firefighters help remove vehicle wedged into Highway 417 overpass Ottawa driver gets double licence suspension after allegedly going 3 times the speed limit Last minute shoppers in Ottawa wrap up Christmas wish lists Shoppers in Brockville, Ont. enjoying stress-free last-minute shopping What's open and closed in Ottawa over the holidays Ottawa welcomes new Team Canada fans with citizenship ceremony ahead of the World Juniors Five vehicles stolen while idling in Gatineau, Que. in recent weeks CTVNews.ca Top Stories What is flagpoling? A new ban on the practice is starting to take effect Immigration measures announced as part of Canada's border response to president-elect Donald Trump's 25 per cent tariff threat are starting to be implemented, beginning with a ban on what's known as 'flagpoling.' Hong Kong police issue arrest warrants and bounties for six activists including two Canadians Hong Kong police on Tuesday announced a fresh round of arrest warrants for six activists based overseas, with bounties set at $1 million Hong Kong dollars for information leading to their arrests. Indigenous family faced discrimination in North Bay, Ont., when they were kicked off transit bus Ontario's Human Rights Tribunal has awarded members of an Indigenous family in North Bay $15,000 each after it ruled they were victims of discrimination. OPP and Ottawa firefighters help remove vehicle wedged into Highway 417 overpass Ottawa firefighters and local Ontario Provincial Police officers were called to a bizarre scene Tuesday morning along Highway 417, where a driver managed to wedge his vehicle under an overpass. On Christmas Eve, Pope Francis appeals for courage to better the world Pope Francis said the story of Jesus' birth as a poor carpenter's son should instill hope that all people can make an impact on the world, as the pontiff on Tuesday led the world's Roman Catholics into Christmas. Read Trudeau's Christmas message Prime Minister Justin Trudeau issued his Christmas message on Tuesday. Here is his message in full. Ontario First Nation challenging selection of underground nuclear waste site in court A First Nation in northern Ontario is challenging the selection of a nearby region as the site of a deep geological repository that will hold Canada's nuclear waste, arguing in a court filing that it should have had a say in the matter as the site falls "squarely" within its territory. Dismiss Trump taunts, expert says after 'churlish' social media posts about Canada U.S. president-elect Donald Trump and those in his corner continue to send out strong messages about Canada. Two arrested in Egypt after attempting to steal hundreds of ancient artifacts from the bottom of the sea Egyptian authorities have arrested two men for attempting to steal hundreds of ancient artifacts from the bottom of the sea, the country’s interior ministry said in a Monday statement. Atlantic Two deaths in Truro ruled homicides: RCMP Police in Nova Scotia are investigating after two deaths in Truro, N.S., over the weekend have been ruled homicides. Snow forecast through Christmas Eve for parts of the Maritimes Parts of the Maritimes that were hit by a weekend snowstorm are in for more of the white stuff this Christmas Eve. 'Can I taste it?': Rare $55,000 bottle of spirits for sale in Moncton, N.B. A rare bottle of Scotch whisky is for sale in downtown Moncton, N.B., with a price tag reading $55,000. Toronto Trudeau could stay or go. Either way, Canadians should brace for a spring election Canada appears to be barrelling toward a spring election now that the NDP is vowing to vote down the government early next year -- whether Prime Minister Justin Trudeau stays on or not. Premiers urge Trudeau to extend deadline for charitable donations after postal strike Canada’s premiers are calling on the federal government to extend the deadline for claiming charitable donations on tax returns through to the end of February. Police seek six suspects after Markham financial institution and customers robbed at gunpoint The York Regional Police (YRP) Hold-Up Unit is on the hunt for six suspects who robbed a financial institution and its customers at gunpoint in Markham on Monday. Montreal Snowfall means a white Christmas, but also traffic woes across southern Quebec roads A heavy snowfall has guaranteed much of Quebec a white Christmas, but it has also sent cars skidding off the province's roads during the busy holiday travel period. As governments try to solve housing crisis, modular homes emerge as potential solution With all three levels of governments looking to find ways to build more housing and faster, one Quebec builder says it has the solution. Quebec doing better job at retaining immigrants, Atlantic Canada still struggling Immigrants are increasingly choosing to stay in Quebec, according to a new report from Statistics Canada, but the same isn't true in the Atlantic region, which continues to lose newcomers to the rest of the country. Northern Ontario Indigenous family faced discrimination in North Bay, Ont., when they were kicked off transit bus Ontario's Human Rights Tribunal has awarded members of an Indigenous family in North Bay $15,000 each after it ruled they were victims of discrimination. Norad crew waiting for Santa to fly over Canada as annual holiday track underway Departing from the North Pole while we were all sleeping, Santa Claus' journey around the world bringing presents and Christmas cheer for all of the good boys and girls who believe is underway. Dismiss Trump taunts, expert says after 'churlish' social media posts about Canada U.S. president-elect Donald Trump and those in his corner continue to send out strong messages about Canada. Windsor Been to Detroit lately? Keep an eye out for these scam parking invoices The City of Detroit has issued a warning to motorists that scam texts are circulating asking for payment for unpaid parking invoices from the city. VIDEO | From a repaired stuffed animal to an ATV, shoppers reveal the best gift they have ever received With Christmas just hours away, the search for the perfect gift is on at stores and malls across the country. Chatham police aware of physical incident between two children going viral on social media The Chatham-Kent Police Service said it is aware of a video going viral on social media, showing a physical incident between two children in the area. London Palace Theatre boarded up over the holidays due to recent damage A break in, theft, and continued property damage has led to the boarding up of the Palace Theatre over the Christmas holidays. Knights stars ready to help Canada chase gold at World Juniors Three London Knights are on the roster, including Easton Cowan, who scored a hat-trick in Canada’s first exhibition game. London fire responds to Wellington Road collision, contains fuel leak London Fire Department was on the scene of a two vehicle collision involving a delivery truck on Tuesday morning. Kitchener Why holiday shopping may feel a little different this year At around 11 a.m. Tuesday at Kitchener’s Fairview Park Mall, there were plenty of parking spots available. It’s a sign that maybe this year, the rush for last minute gifts is no more. What’s open and what’s closed over the holidays A detailed guide to what’s open and closed between Dec. 24 and New Year's Day. Police investigating after vandalization of Pride crosswalk in Waterloo Waterloo Regional Police are investigating after a Pride crosswalk was vandalized in Waterloo on Sunday. Barrie Here's when Santa is coming down your chimney, live tracking underway in Simcoe County The spirit of Christmas is in the air as Santa Claus begins his lasting journey to deliver presents to children around the region. Help this missing pup make it home for Christmas The Ontario SPCA in Barrie needs your help bringing this handsome pup home to his family before Christmas. Here's where you can retire your spruce after the holiday season If you got a retired spruce that you’d like to put to rest after the holidays, here are a few options you may want to consider. Winnipeg One person dead, another injured following Monday night house fire One person has died and another is in unstable condition following a house fire Monday evening. Winnipeg police investigating string of packages being stolen The Winnipeg Police Service is investigating a string of package thefts in the Transcona area. ‘Choosing your own adventure’: Winnipeg’s Select Start readies Exchange District for brand new ‘barcade’ experience A new ‘barcade’ in the heart of the Exchange District is hoping to be a successful launch title for a new generation of players. Calgary Three sent to hospital after Glenmore Trail crash Calgary police shut down Glenmore Trail overnight following a crash between a car and a crane truck. Person in critical condition after downtown Calgary fire A person was sent to hospital in life-threatening condition after a fire in downtown Calgary on Tuesday morning. Skier seriously injured in avalanche near Revelstoke, B.C. A skier was seriously injured after an avalanche near Revelstoke, B.C., over the weekend. Edmonton Edmonton apartment building boarded up after evacuation order from the city An Edmonton apartment building that was evacuated for safety reasons on Monday now sits boarded up. 1 charged after van stolen from Edmonton's Food Bank on Monday One person has been arrested after a van was stolen from Edmonton's Food Bank on Monday. Homelessness, rising property taxes major matters for Edmonton's mayor in 2024 Amarjeet Sohi looked back on the calendar year that's soon coming to a close with CTV News Edmonton, detailing recent challenges he and city council faced – typical year-end matters such as property taxes and finances – plus ongoing questions and efforts surrounding homelessness. Regina Sask. RCMP still searching for man suspected of small-town break-ins spanning years A man suspected of breaking into offices and small businesses across Saskatchewan over the past number of years has struck again – according to RCMP. 'A nice way to connect': Christmas card exchange between Sask. friends spans 60 years What started out as a little holiday fun between two Regina friends has turned into a tradition that now spans six decades. A separate Ukrainian Christmas may be a thing of the past There might be more households than usual celebrating this Christmas Eve, as many Ukrainians around the world are opting to abandon the orthodox calendar. Saskatoon 'People prop the doors open': Saskatoon resident concerned as people shelter in her stairwell With the number of homeless people in Saskatoon at an unprecedented high, it’s no surprise people are looking for places to warm up. A separate Ukrainian Christmas may be a thing of the past There might be more households than usual celebrating this Christmas Eve, as many Ukrainians around the world are opting to abandon the orthodox calendar. Saskatoon-born comedian Brendan Flaherty returns to ask, 'what'd I miss?' As a Saskatoon-born comedian pursuing a career in the Six, Brendan Flaherty says he often hears the same question from friends back home. Vancouver Woman struck by vehicle dies in Burnaby, B.C. A 24-year-old woman who was struck by a vehicle last week in Burnaby, B.C., has died. Ripe avalanche conditions for parts of B.C. expected to persist this week A forecaster says ripe avalanche conditions are expected to persist across much of British Columbia for the rest of the week. BREAKING | BC Ferries cancels some Christmas Day sailings, says many others 'at risk' due to weather The stormy weather in the forecast for B.C.'s South Coast could make getting around on Christmas Day challenging for some holiday travellers. Vancouver Island Ripe avalanche conditions for parts of B.C. expected to persist this week A forecaster says ripe avalanche conditions are expected to persist across much of British Columbia for the rest of the week. Woman struck by vehicle dies in Burnaby, B.C. A 24-year-old woman who was struck by a vehicle last week in Burnaby, B.C., has died. Homicide victim identified as 36-year-old man from Langley, B.C. Homicide investigators are identifying the victim of a suspected murder last year in Langley, B.C. Kelowna Forfeited Hells Angels clubhouse in Kelowna, B.C., sold to the city A former Hells Angels clubhouse that was seized by the British Columbia government in 2023 after years of fighting in court has been sold to the City of Kelowna. Death of woman found in Kelowna's Waterfront Park in June deemed 'non-criminal in nature': RCMP Police in Kelowna say a death they began investigating back in June has now been confirmed as "non-criminal in nature." B.C. man sentenced for 'execution-style' murder of bystander in drug trade conflict A B.C. man convicted of the "intentional and ruthless killing of a bystander" while acting as an enforcer in the drug trade has been sentenced for a second time in the slaying. Stay Connected

GREENWICH, Conn.--(BUSINESS WIRE)--Dec 6, 2024-- W. R. Berkley Corporation (NYSE: WRB) announced today that its Board of Directors declared a special cash dividend on its common stock of 50 cents per share to be paid on December 27, 2024 to stockholders of record at the close of business on December 16, 2024. The special dividend announced today is the third in 2024. In addition, the Board of Directors has declared a regular quarterly cash dividend on its common stock of 8 cents per share to be paid on December 27, 2024 to stockholders of record at the close of business on December 16, 2024. Including the dividends announced today, the special and regular quarterly cash dividends paid year-to-date, and shares repurchased through September 30, 2024, total capital returned to shareholders during 2024 is approximately $768.2 million. Founded in 1967, W. R. Berkley Corporation is an insurance holding company that is among the largest commercial lines writers in the United States and operates two segments of the property casualty insurance business: Insurance and Reinsurance & Monoline Excess. For further information about W. R. Berkley Corporation, please visit www.berkley.com . View source version on businesswire.com : https://www.businesswire.com/news/home/20241206307124/en/ CONTACT: Karen A. Horvath Vice President – External Financial Communications 203-629-3000 KEYWORD: CONNECTICUT UNITED STATES NORTH AMERICA INDUSTRY KEYWORD: PROFESSIONAL SERVICES INSURANCE FINANCE SOURCE: W. R. Berkley Corporation Copyright Business Wire 2024. PUB: 12/06/2024 04:15 PM/DISC: 12/06/2024 04:15 PM http://www.businesswire.com/news/home/20241206307124/en5 more people booked; LOC, blue notice issued against Myron Panaji: Spreading its net in an investment fraud, the economic offences cell of the Goa police has booked five more people in connection with cheating cases where a husband-wife duo allegedly duped nearly 70 persons to the tune of over Rs 100 crore, mostly from Salcete taluka. The five persons, who are the directors of Idylic Goan Gateways and Developments Private Limited, are 32-year-old Fatorda resident Nolan Lawrence Antao, Joaquim Rosario Pires, also from Fatorda, 54-year-old Kudal resident Vijay Joil, 55-year-old Benaulim local Navnik Mario Pereira and 53-year-old Sushant Ghodge from Pernem. Giving details of the case, SP (crime branch) Rahul Gupta said, “On August 8, we registered an FIR under sections 406, 420 read with Section 34 of the IPC upon the complaint of Navelim resident Ivon Suresh Joaquim Almeida against accused Myron Rodrigues and his wife Deepali Parab, both residents of Kirbhat Nuvem, for cheating the complainant to the tune of over Rs 36.54 lakh on the pretext of investing his money in share market. The couple offered lucrative returns and misappropriated the money of the complainant for their own use. On August 30, another FIR under sections 406, 420 read with Section 34 of the IPC was registered after receiving more complaints against the same accused for duping the investors to the tune of over Rs 20.83 crore, Gupta said. The police received a total of 38 complaints from the investors against accused Myron Rodrigues and Deepali Parab all amounting to over Rs 23.21 crore, he said. “As per the complainants, there are more than 50 investors who have been duped of Rs 100 crore. Fraud mostly happened with the people from Salcete taluka. The complainants had been investing since 2011, and they have not received their money back,” he disclosed. Gupta said the accused Myron introduced himself to investors as a stock broker and Deepali as a financial expert and duped the people. The senior police official said they are neither registered with SEBI nor with the RBI to carry out trading in securities. “41A notice has been issued to Deepali Parab; she has been constantly summoned at the EOC for investigation. Myron is absconding and evading the process of law. Through intelligence we came to know that Myron fled from India to London via Dubai on July 24, 2023. A lookout circular (LOC) through Bureau of Immigration and a blue notice through Interpol have been issued against the accused Myron. We are making efforts to bring him back to Goa. Red Corner notice is in process,” he said. Gupta also said Myron had given mutual divorce to his ex-wife Sunita Rodrigues in 2021 and thereafter married Deepali Parab. “We have frozen bank accounts of the accused Myron and Deepali having a total amount of over Rs 6 lakh, fixed deposit of over Rs 35 lakh and also two bank lockers. We have identified eight properties belonging to Myron, Sunita and Deepali, the SP said. The police have “blocked” their properties by sending letters to sub-registrar not to sell them. The police have also shared the information with the ED too, he said, adding that there are seven flats and one villa all worth Rs 3.5 crore. As per statement summary of bank account of Myron, he received over Rs 130 crore and spent over Rs 129 crore from 2009 to August 17, 2023, the police official said. “Myron and Deepali are proprietors of body corporate called DMA Designing New Worlds LLP, which was incorporated before the Registrar of Company, Goa. The said company dealt in real estate business,” he said. He also informed that the company Idylic Goan Gateways and Developments Private Limited and Myron and Deepali are partners in a partnership firm i.e. Prospect Realty which was registered before the sub-registrar of Salcete, Margao and the said firm is engaged in real estate business. “Myron transferred investors’ money of over Rs 3.25 crore from November 2022 to June 2023 from his bank account to Idylic Goan Gateways and Developments Private Limited and Rs 2 crore to Prospect Realty for business purpose,” Gupta said. He informed that on November 21, all the directors of Idylic Goan Gateways and Developments Private Limited, have been arrayed as accused in the crime after scrutiny of the financial transactions. “We have also added sections 3 and 5 of the Goa Protection of Interest of Depositors (In Financial Establishments) Act 1999 (GPID) for attaching the movable and immovable properties of accused persons and to carry out the liquidation process. We are investigating their role too in the whole fraud committed by Myron,” he said. “Accused Nolan, Vijay Joil, Navnik Mario Pereira and Sushant Ghodge filed anticipatory bail application before the sessions court, Panaji. The court granted interim relief to them and imposed conditions. They were directed to report to the EOC for five days from Sunday from 10 am to 1 pm,” he said. “Both the cases are under investigation. Efforts are continuing to nab accused Myron and associates,” he said. Goa’s biggest investment scam: Sawant Margao: Chief Minister Pramod Sawant on Sunday said the economic offence cell of the Goa police is investigating the “Goa’s biggest investment scam”, adding that action will be initiated against those involved in it. He was reacting to the lookout circular issued through the Bureau of Immigration and blue notice through Interpol against Nuvem resident Myron Rodrigues for allegedly cheating several people of Goa, luring them of good returns. Others have also been booked in connection with the scam. Speaking to mediapersons on the sidelines of a programme in Margao, Sawant said, “This is the biggest investment scam in Goa. It started in Fatorda and has connection with London. We will investigate it and will take action against those involved in it.’’ The Chief Minister exhorted the people affected by the scam to come forward and file police complaints.

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