phmacao casino

By Anura Gunasekera About 20 years ago, I used the same title, in a writing dealing with Mahinda Rajapaksa’s triumphant ascent to power, published in an issue of the Sunday Island. In that I expressed my deep apprehensions of a Rajapaksa dispensation. As the years unfolded, the grim realities of years of misrule, with the younger Rajapaksa outdoing the elder brother in criminality, corruption and incompetence, exceeded the worst fears of my imagination. In between, not to be forgotten, there was also the crushingly disappointing “yahapalanya” farce, perpetrated by the Sirisena-Wickremesinghe collaboration. But I am an eternal optimist. At an year short of eighty, there cannot be either space or time for pessimism, despite decades of despair, disappointment and disillusionment, over the country’s political trajectory since 1956 when, as a ten year old, I was made acutely aware by adult discussions around me, and the screaming headlines of newspapers then, of the magnitude and the implications of SWRD Bandaranaike’s election victory. The 1956 election victory of the “Pancha Maha Balavegaya” , was the so-called ushering in of the “Era of the common man”, engineered by a cynical aristocrat -as uncommon as they come – who leveraged the clear gulf between the anglophilic, feudalistic UNP regime of a decade, and the aspirations and frustrations of the majority, largely rural, Sinhala-Buddhist polity. That this social and political revolution also heralded the marginalization of the minority groups within the polity, institutionalized through subsequent legislation, is now a matter of history. There is no space in this writing for a discussion of the tragic consequences. In the recent demolition of all opposing parties by the NPP-JVP, led by the charismatic Anura Kumara Dissasnayake (AKD) , I see the “Era of the common man”, ushered in by an uncommon man of genuinely common origin. Despite the repetitive use of the word “common”, the latter is a statement made with great respect, and hope, that the overpowering political and social transformation commencing on September 21 and culminating on November 14, realistically signals the “Dawn of a New Era”; that it will usher in national ethnic and religious consensus, corruption-free governance, the re-establishment of the rule of law, a more equitable re-distribution of wealth, a state education system specially geared to meet the needs of development, a state medical service in which drugs are designed not to kill but to cure, and the empowerment of the long-neglected agricultural sector. These are but a few from the long list of critical national needs, for a “richer nation and a beautiful life”, which the NPP-JVP election manifesto has promised. AKD’s victory in the presidential election and the NPP-JVP victory in the subsequent general election, have been analyzed in all possible ways. The statistics of the victory are mind-boggling but not incomprehensible. 1.1 million voters who went to the presidential election in September, boycotted the general election in November. Sajith Premadasa’s (SP) SJB lost 3.4 million votes and Ranil Wickremesinghe’s (RW) NDF lost 1.7 million votes ( 78% and 75% respectively) within the space of six weeks, whilst AKD’s 42% increased to 61 % for his party. Despite critics and defeated opponents trivializing AKD as a minority president, on that showing alone the NPP-JVP was still assured of a simple majority at the general election. However, it may not have obtained the two-thirds majority at the general election, almost unimaginable within a proportional representation system, if not for mass voter abstention. But the obsession with the statistics of that victory is to ignore the qualitative aspects, reflected by the aspirations of the people. The SJB and the NDF fielded tainted candidates with long histories of alleged corruption, most of them from the Rajapaksa dispensation. Neither Sajith nor Ranil understood that ordinary people wanted a clean political culture, accountability by the legislature, the elimination of impunity for the privileged and the ruling elite, the answerability for abuse of privileges and a host of allied issues. Sajith persisted in delivering verbose analyses of AKD’s alleged bungling of the IMF programme, and the non-delivery of the assurances given to the nation in his manifesto. RW, despite an ignominious relegation to third place in the presidential race, resorted to belittlingnAKD as a “minority president”, accompanied by sick, insensitive jokes, unacceptable even from a schoolboy. Neither had a compelling vision or programme which could attract the polity, as an alternative to a more decent, fulfilling life within a clean administration, which was the essence of AKD’s philosophy. As a direct outcome of the election loss, the door has been firmly shut in RW’s face, despite his pathetic subsequent attempts at regaining political relevance. As for the SJB, if it is to regain any kind of political traction, it would need to seriously reconsider leadership options. Waiting for the present government to falter, or fail, is not an option. Sajith, a serial loser within a short span of time, is more ineffective than his elder clone, and perhaps one-time mentor, Ranil. The latter, over a couple of decades, presided over the gradual disintegration and disappearance of the UNP, once dominant in local politics. Under Sajith the SJB is certain to suffer the same fate, but much, much, quicker. The party, if it is to survive, needs to unceremoniously jettison a man who has proved, quickly and convincingly, to be an incompetent leader. Hopefully, by the time this is published, the mechanism for his eviction would have been set in motion. The outstanding, and most refreshing feature in the NPP-JVP election result is its performance in the North. For the first time since Independence in 1948, the northern polity rejected traditional, ethnic politicians, and responded to a leader of a different ethnicity from the South. One reason for the NPP-JVP success in the North is that AKD, from the very outset, fought a campaign based on equality for all races and religions, with national needs at the forefront, but totally free from ethnically divisive sentiments, customarily the primary weapons in the campaign armory of politicians of all ethnicities. The other is that despite decades of insular political representation, minority leaders have achieved very little on behalf of the polity they represented. People in all parts of the country share the same socio-economic problems, but those in the North, the victims of a brutal war, fought across the very lands they lived on, have deeper grievances awaiting resolution. AKD had already demonstrated good faith by the people of the North, by opening the Palaly-Atchchuvely road, after 34 years. In his campaign speech in Jaffna on November 10, he gave the assurance that Tamil political prisoners held in jails in the South, would be released. This drew a quick and detailed response from former minister of justice, Wijedasa Rajapakse, who stated that the use of the term, “political prisoners”, would compromise Sri Lanka’s position in Geneva, in regard to related issues. President AKD also promised to release formerly privately owned land, now held by the military. Reportedly, around 70,000 acres have already been released, although there is no clarity on the exact extent still held by the forces. There is also the accusation that acquired land has been leveled, and pre-existing boundaries and markers, such as trees, rocks and buildings, obliterated, thus making identification and restoration to original owners, impractical. Land, especially to a citizenry, for centuries heavily reliant on cultivation as a means of sustenance, is fundamental to existence. Therefore, this is a primary concern for immediate government attention. Another need is for Tamils in the North to be given the total freedom to commemorate their dead, whether they be civilians, or LTTE activists and combatants. To the kith and kin of those who died in battle against the largely Sinhala-Buddhist forces, the dead are not terrorists who waged war against an elected government, but, simply, fathers and mothers, brothers and sisters, sons and daughters, and husbands and wives, still remembered with love by the living. Their right to grieve is indisputable. If the Sinhalese of the South are permitted to commemorate JVP activists, eliminated largely through extra-judicial means by state-sponsored forces, the Tamils of the North have an equal right to publicly mourn the LTTE dead. An important issue the government must be aware of, is that establishing accord between the Tamil North, and the Sinhala South, will be resisted by extremist politicians on both sides, to whom racial and religious divisions have always been the means of inciting public sentiment, and securing and maintaining political power. In recent decades, the Rajapakse clan, especially Mahinda and Gotabhaya, elevated racially divisive rhetoric to an art form, tirelessly inventing enemies, from which only the family could deliver the Sinhala-Buddhist nation. A succession of racist politicians have drummed in to the minds of the Sinhalese, that a concession to the Tamil North, is a threat to the Sinhala-Buddhist South. In fact, already, there have been thinly veiled references by known extremists, suggesting that the NPP-JVP election victory win in the North, could be the result of a secret pact with one or more of the minority parties. For politicians and parties with no vision to offer the citizen, it is inconceivable that voters would respond to decent, sincere propositions with no strings attached. The people have given the NPP-JVP an overwhelming mandate, much more than the strong government that AKD requested during his campaign. The election result does not reflect a nation-wide ideological shift on the part of the voter, although the government, by delivering on its promises, can certainly stimulate one. If a government, with its roots in left-oriented, Marxist doctrine, becomes the engine of deliverance, to a nation in deep want in every aspect of its existence, then the whole nation will automatically turn Left. The nation now waits, impatiently, for the NPP-JVP to deliver. Failure may result in an eruption and the release of darker forces, in the face of which the “Aragalaya” would pale in to insignificance.No. 12 West Virginia women beat Boise State 82-47 to reach title game of Gulf Coast Showcasephmacao casino 。

WILLIAMSBURG, Va. (AP) — Keller Boothby's 16 points helped William & Mary defeat Navy 82-76 on Sunday. Boothby went 6 of 8 from the field (4 for 6 from 3-point range) for the Tribe (6-7). Gabe Dorsey scored 16 points and added three steals. Noah Collier went 7 of 9 from the field to finish with 14 points, while adding seven rebounds. Austin Benigni finished with 16 points for the Midshipmen (3-10). Jinwoo Kim added 15 points for Navy. Donovan Draper had 14 points and seven rebounds. The loss was the Midshipmen's sixth in a row. Collier scored 10 points in the first half for William & Mary, who led 41-33 at the break. William & Mary took the lead for good with 3:03 left in the second half on a layup from Dorsey to make it a 73-71 game. The Associated Press created this story using technology provided by Data Skrive and data from Sportradar .Timeline: Jimmy Carter, 1924-2024

Here's what to know about the new funding deal that countries agreed to at UN climate talks

Online child exploitation spiked in B.C. in recent years. Police worry it's here to stayWien, Austria, Dec. 04, 2024 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) -- Aurora Finanzen , a rapidly growing trading platform specializing in delivering high-impact results for German investors, has officially cemented its position as the leading choice for crypto and financial trading in 2024. With a combination of cutting-edge technology, AI-driven trading tools, and an unmatched commitment to client success, Aurora Finanzen is setting a new standard in the trading industry. The Announcement: Leading the Trading Revolution In a bold move that has captured the attention of the trading community, Aurora Finanzen announced record-breaking performance metrics for the year. With an average success rate exceeding 95% in its advanced algorithmic trading strategies and a growing user base of satisfied investors, the platform has effectively outpaced its competitors. The company’s zero-fee structure and state-of-the-art AI-powered tools have been pivotal in attracting both seasoned and novice traders. Aurora Finanzen has reported a 200% increase in active users over the past year, a milestone attributed to its user-friendly platform and the promise of delivering consistent returns even in volatile markets. “ Aurora Finanzen ’s success is a direct result of our relentless focus on innovation and client satisfaction,” said the company’s CEO. “We are proud to offer German investors a platform that not only simplifies trading but also delivers consistent, high-value returns. Our goal is to remain at the forefront of the industry by continuously raising the bar.” Relevance in Today’s Market Aurora Finanzen’s performance comes at a time when market uncertainty and economic challenges have made investors more cautious about their financial choices. The platform’s ability to navigate these challenges with precision and deliver profitability has positioned it as a trusted partner for traders seeking stability and growth. What sets Aurora Finanzen apart is its tailored approach to trading. The platform leverages advanced machine learning and AI algorithms to provide actionable market insights, helping users make informed decisions quickly. This technological edge ensures that clients can capitalize on opportunities in real-time, maximizing their potential for success. Moreover, Aurora Finanzen ’s zero-fee structure eliminates a significant barrier for traders, making the platform accessible to all. By removing hidden costs, the company allows users to retain more of their profits—a key factor driving its popularity in Germany. Expert Insights and Client-Centered Approach The company’s leadership emphasizes the importance of combining advanced technology with a personalized trading experience. “While technology is at the heart of our platform, our real strength lies in understanding the needs of our clients,” the CEO added. “Our team is dedicated to providing tools and resources that empower investors to achieve their financial goals, no matter their level of experience.” Aurora Finanzen’s success stories highlight its ability to deliver results. From beginner traders experiencing their first significant profits to professional investors scaling their portfolios with ease, the platform has proven to be a game-changer in the industry. Its innovative AI tools have been credited with enabling users to identify lucrative opportunities and mitigate risks effectively. One long-term user shared, “ Aurora Finanzen has completely transformed the way I approach trading. The platform’s AI tools are incredibly accurate, and I’ve been able to see consistent growth in my investments. It’s by far the best trading platform I’ve ever used.” Staying Ahead of the Competition Aurora Finanzen’s rise to the top is no accident. The company continuously invests in research and development, ensuring that its platform evolves to meet the demands of an ever-changing market. By staying ahead of industry trends and incorporating client feedback, Aurora Finanzen remains uniquely positioned to outperform its competitors. Key features that have driven the company’s success include: AI-Powered Market Insights: Real-time data analysis to predict market movements with high accuracy. Zero Fees: A transparent pricing model that prioritizes user profitability. User-Friendly Interface: Designed for traders of all experience levels, with intuitive navigation and educational resources. Global Market Access: 24/7 trading opportunities across multiple financial markets. As a result, Aurora Finanzen has become the go-to platform for German investors seeking reliable, cutting-edge trading solutions. Aurora Finanzen invites investors across Germany to experience the future of trading. Whether you’re a seasoned trader looking to scale your portfolio or a beginner eager to make your first trade, Aurora Finanzen provides the tools, insights, and support needed to succeed in today’s fast-paced market. About Aurora Finanzen Aurora Finanzen is a leading trading platform specializing in AI-driven solutions for crypto and financial markets. Committed to empowering clients with innovative tools and unparalleled support, Aurora Finanzen has become Germany’s top choice for trading success. Disclaimer: Trading involves significant risk and may not be suitable for all investors. Past performance is not indicative of future results. Please ensure you fully understand the risks involved and seek independent advice if necessary. Aurora Finanzen does not guarantee profits and is not responsible for losses incurred through trading activities.Published 4:48 pm Saturday, November 30, 2024 By Data Skrive Sunday’s game between the Maryland Terrapins (6-1) and Alcorn State Braves (0-8) at XFINITY Center has a projected final score of 84-56 (according to our computer prediction) in favor of heavily favored Maryland, so expect a lopsided matchup. The game will begin at 12:00 PM ET on December 1. According to our computer prediction, Alcorn State is projected to cover the spread (32.5) versus Maryland. The two sides are expected to go over the 137.5 total. Watch men’s college basketball, other live sports and more on Fubo. What is Fubo? Fubo is a streaming service that gives you access to your favorite live sports and shows on demand. Use our link to sign up for a free trial. Place your bets on any men’s college basketball matchup at BetMGM. Sign up today using our link. Both Maryland and Alcorn State are 3-4-0 against the spread (ATS) so far this season. The Terrapins have gone over the point total in five games, while Braves games have gone over two times. The two teams combine to score 140 points per game, 2.5 more points than this matchup’s total. Bet on this or any men’s college basketball matchup at BetMGM. Rep your favorite players with officially licensed gear. Head to Fanatics to find jerseys, shirts, hats, and much more. Not all offers available in all states, please visit BetMGM for the latest promotions for your area. Must be 21+ to gamble, please wager responsibly. If you or someone you know has a gambling problem, contact 1-800-GAMBLER .

Thursday: Julia Kornberg on Berlin Atomized at Lost City Books Berlin Atomized , the debut novel from author Julia Kornberg , is described as a “kinetic, globetrotting novel” following three “downwardly mobile” Jewish siblings from 2001 to 2034. Originally published as Atomizado Berlín in 2021, the English-language version, translated by Jack Rockwell , was released earlier this week on Dec. 3. To celebrate, Lost City Books is hosting a conversation between Kornberg and Rockwell, with moderation by translator and author Lily Meyer . Berlin Atomized shows the siblings struggling against economic turmoil, environmental collapse, and war, among other crises over the span of multiple decades. Kornberg opens her novel in Nordelta, a wealthy ( and gentrified ) gated community in Buenos Aires, during Argentina’s great depression in 2001. Born and raised in Buenos Aires and now based in New York City, Kornberg has focused on writing about the Jewish Argentine community, culture, and identity. A writer from a young age, Kornberg recently told Beyond the Zero that “this is pretty much all I’ve done” and credited Argentina’s “institution” of literary workshops—one of which she attended as an adolescent—to fueling her interest in writing. Currently, a Ph.D. candidate at Princeton University, Kornberg is working on her second novel. Julia Kornberg discusses Berlin Atomized at 7 p.m. on Dec. 5 at Lost City Books, 2467 18th St. NW. lostcitybookstore.com . Free. —Daryl Perry Saturday and Sunday: Native Art Market at NMAI Across Indigenous communities in the Southeast U.S., weaving baskets has been a crux of culture, society, and technology. Native women used the practice of basket weaving, the oldest preserved artistic tradition of Indigenous culture, as a means of socializing, documenting history, telling stories, and combining practicality with creativity. The tradition lives on through dedicated descendants and artful masters of the craft, and is one of many forms of art that will be displayed at the National Museum of the American Indian’s Native Art Market. The annual market features Indigenous artists from around the Western Hemisphere, who are known for their award-winning craftsmanship. Lovers of art are invited to immerse themselves in the rich, vibrant culture by learning about Native traditions and the contemporary ways in which these artists adapt them to the modern age. Like basketry, the artwork and creations on display—and for sale—at the market showcase the spirit of vibrant artistry kept alive today. You’ll find beadwork, which predates European arrival to the U.S. and exemplifies just how resourceful Native Americans were in their ingenuity, hundreds of years ago. Also included will be illustrations, jewelry, metalwork, sculptures, photography, and clothing. The Native Art Market runs from 10 a.m. to 5:30 p.m on Dec. 7 and 8 at the National Museum of the American Indian, Third Street and Maryland Avenue SW. americanindian.si.edu . Free. — Meg Richards Saturday: The Skeptics Guide to the Universe at Miracle Theatre A podcast steeped in science hosted by people who work in science was once one of the most popular ones on iTunes. A long time ago, when you had to actually download a podcast on a computer and then use a cord to upload it to your iPhone, The Skeptics Guide to the Universe ruled a much less influential platform. It’s not surprising that the easier it became to listen to the format, the dumber and dumber it became. Like most early pods that stuck around, the show has produced more than a thousand episodes, a book, and live shows. Unlike most popular current pods, the show is not a product of any other streaming platform, sponsored by a gambling app or broadcast network. And it’s definitely not part of the crop of pods speaking to the young White dudes who might have swung an election. If the influence of those shows are justifiably bumming you out, this live version of The Skeptics Guide should be a respite from today’s news. If you’re a regular attendee of Nerd Nite at DC9 or the Profs and Pints talks throughout D.C., you’ll most likely like The Skeptics Guide . At a time when the dumbest possible future feels inevitable, it’ll be nice to spend a few hours with some like-minded individuals that realize the universe is vast. The Skeptics Guide to the Universe records at 8 p.m. on Dec. 7 at Miracle Theatre, 535 8th St. SE. unionstagepresents.com . $40. —Brandon Wetherbee Tuesday: Emily Dickinson Birthday Tribute Reading with Kimiko Hahn The Folger Shakespeare Library has been hosting programming at a breakneck pace since reopening this summer. On Tuesday, the library is hosting its esteemed birthday tribute to Emily Dickinson in person for the first time since 2020. This year’s reading will be done by poet Kimiko Hahn , the author of 10 poetry collections and winner of the Poetry Foundation’s Ruth Lilly Lifetime Achievement Award. The tribute event is a hallmark of Folger’s programming and has previously featured Mary Oliver , Carolyn Forché , and U.S. Poet Laureate Joy Harjo , among others. And afterward local poet and civil rights lawyer Sunu Chandy will moderate a conversation with Hahn. Prepare for the birthday festivities by brushing up on your poetry readings , attempting Dickinson’s black cake recipe (the cake will also be served at the event) , or watching the TV show Dickinson , based loosely (to say the least) on her life. Or, before you head to the Folger, you can read the Washington Post Magazine ’s account of Dickinson’s 1855 trip to D.C. that’s at odds with her popular hermit-esque persona. According to the story, the then-24-year-old Dickinson was repelled by the city’s opaque high society but interested in its political and cultural attractions; a stance City Paper readers might get behind. The Emily Dickinson Birthday Tribute starts at 7:30 p.m. on Dec. 10 at Folger Shakespeare Library, 201 E Capitol St. SE. folger.edu . $20. —Serena Zets Ongoing: Virginia Hall Exhibit at the Spy Museum Virginia Hall was hardly a woman of no importance . Baltimore born and raised, Hall went on to become the Nazis’ most wanted Allied spy and a decorated World War II operative with medals from the U.S., the UK, and France. “One of my favorite photos of her is her jumping off a barn as a little girl,” says Hannah Saloio , curator of the new Virginia Hall exhibit at the International Spy Museum. “I think that kind of tells her entire story.” The small but detailed exhibit, found in the museum’s Spies and Spymasters gallery on the fifth floor, aims to tell Hall’s story in greater detail. The woman who became known as “the lady who limps” by the Gestapo—due to her prosthetic leg, which she nicknamed “ Cuthbert ”—was working as a clerk for the State Department in Estonia when Germany invaded Poland and launched WWII. From driving an ambulance on the front lines in France to being recruited by the British Special Operations Executive, Hall proved that women could play an equally important role in the war’s reconnaissance, sabotage, and espionage efforts. Indeed, some of her biggest confidants in France, where she was stationed, were nuns, sex workers, and a brothel owner. Her “resume” sounds more like something out of an Evelyn Salt movie than real life: She was hunted by the Gestapo’s Butcher of Lyon; fled France on foot over the Pyrenees Mountains—with a wooden leg; and became a wireless operator for the U.S. Office of Strategic Services. For one mission, she filed down her teeth to better pass as an elderly milkmaid in order to track German troops. According to the museum , “she radioed intelligence reports, coordinated parachute drops of supplies, oversaw sabotage missions, and planned ambushes of German soldiers.” An NPR article notes that “at its peak, Hall’s network consisted of some 1,500 people,” including a soldier who later became her husband. Her MBE Medal Award, a passport, and the actual uniform she wore as a French ambulance driver are among the artifacts in the exhibit. But the biggest takeaway is the long-overdue recognition of her work. The Virginia Hall exhibit is now open in the Spies and Spymasters gallery at the International Spy Museum, 700 L’Enfant Plaza SW. Monday through Friday, 10 a.m. to 6 p.m.; Saturday 9 a.m. to 7 p.m.; Sunday, 9 a.m. to 6 p.m. spymuseum.org . $20–$32. —Sarah Marloff Don’t forget to sign up for City Lights , our twice-weekly guide to the best arts and nightlife, delivered from our writers straight to your inbox every Thursday and Sunday.