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LAHAINA, Hawaii (AP) — Tyrese Hunter scored 17 of his 26 points after halftime to lead Memphis to a 99-97 overtime win against two-time defending national champion and second-ranked UConn on Monday in the first round of the Maui Invitational . Hunter shot 7 of 10 from 3-point range for the Tigers (5-0), who were 12 of 22 from beyond at the arc as a team. PJ Haggerty had 22 points and five assists, Colby Rogers had 19 points and Dain Dainja scored 14. Tarris Reed Jr. had 22 points and 11 rebounds off the bench for the Huskies (4-1). Alex Karaban had 19 points and six assists, and Jaylin Stewart scored 16. Memphis led by as many as 13 with about four minutes left in regulation, but UConn chipped away and eventually tied it on Solo Ball’s 3-pointer with 1.2 seconds remaining. Memphis: The Tigers ranked second nationally in field goal percentage going into the game and shot it at a 54.7% clip. UConn: The Huskies saw their string of 17 consecutive wins dating back to February come to an end. The teams were tied at 92 with less than a minute remaining in overtime when UConn coach Dan Hurley was assessed a technical foul for his displeasure with an over-the-back call against Liam McNeeley. PJ Carter hit four straight free throws — two for the tech and the other pair for the personal foul — to give Memphis a 96-92 lead with 40.3 seconds to play. UConn had three players foul out. Memphis attempted 40 free throws and made 29 of them. Memphis will play the winner of Colorado-Michigan State on Tuesday in the second round of the invitational. UConn will play the loser of that game in the consolation bracket. Get poll alerts and updates on the AP Top 25 throughout the season. Sign up here . AP college basketball: https://apnews.com/hub/ap-top-25-college-basketball-poll and https://apnews.com/hub/college-basketball .

INGLEWOOD, Calif. -- The Baltimore Ravens and Los Angeles Chargers meet today on Monday Night Football in an NFL Week 12 matchup that will air on ESPN and ABC at 8:15 p.m. Eastern. Several streaming services will broadcast the game live and you can watch on Fubo (free trial and $30 off your first month), DirecTV Stream (free trial) and Sling (promotional offers). The matchup features a meeting between two of the top teams in the AFC. The Ravens, to no surprise, are among the favorites to win the conference this year. However, after a loss at the Steelers last week, Baltimore isn’t atop its division and would have to make a run through the wild card if the postseason started today. The Chargers, somewhat surprisingly, are off to a hot start. Los Angeles has won four straight games and has the top record among projected wild card teams in the AFC. While the game is important in the playoff race, there’s an underlying storyline. It’s a meeting of brothers. Jim Harbaugh coaches the Chargers while John Harbaugh is at the helm for the Ravens. It’s the first meeting between the two since John Harbaugh beat his brother in Super Bowl 47. They finally meet again 12 years later. “Walking off the field at that Super Bowl was like, there will be another day. And then there wasn’t for many years and it looked like I wouldn’t have a chance for another day,” Jim Harbaugh told reports Monday. “But by the grace of God, I’m back in it and back on a team that has a chance.” Check out a complete rundown of NFL Week 12 action , including the schedule, predictions, previews, TV information and more. Ravens - Chargers Matchup Preview The Chargers currently sit atop the AFC wild card standings with a 7-3 record. Baltimore is half a game back at 7-4. Ravens - Chargers Last Game Recap Baltimore Ravens: The Ravens are coming off a loss against the rival Steelers. Baltimore didn’t allow a touchdown in the contest, but Pittsburgh kicker Chris Boswell connected on six field goals en route to a win. Los Angeles Chargers: The Chargers are coming off a primetime win against the Bengals. Playing on Sunday Night Football, Los Angeles prevailed with a touchdown from running back J.K. Dobbins in the game’s final minute. Ravens - Chargers Players to Watch Baltimore Ravens: Quarterback Lamar Jackson is having another MVP-level year for the Ravens. He has thrown for 2,876 yards with 25 touchdowns and only three interceptions. He’s in the backfield alongside running back Derrick Henry who has rushed for 1,185 yards and 13 scores this year. Los Angeles Chargers: The Chargers are led by quarterback Justin Herbert who has 2,186 passing yards and 13 touchdowns. He’s accompanied by Dobbins who has 726 rushing yards and eight scores. How to Watch Ravens - Chargers Who: Baltimore Ravens vs. Los Angeles Chargers When: Monday, Nov. 25, 2024 Time: 8:15 p.m. Eastern Where: SoFi Stadium | Inglewood, California Channel: ESPN/ABC Best Streaming Options: Fubo (free trial and $30 off your first month), DirecTV Stream (free trial), Sling (promotional offers). Channel finder if you have cable You can access the channel by using the channel finders online: Verizon Fios , AT&T U-verse , Comcast Xfinity , Spectrum/Charter , Optimum/Altice , DIRECTV and Dish . About FuboTV Fubo (free trial and $30 off your first month) has three main packages: Pro costs $79.99/month; Elite is $89.99; Premier is priced at $99.99. Cancel before the free trial ends to avoid being charged. Fubo includes access to more than 185 sports, entertainment and news channels. You can record games, TV shows, movies and more. About DirecTV Stream DirecTV Stream , which also gives customers a free trial, offers four packages if you continue with the service after your trial ends: Entertainment for $69.99; Choice for $84.99; Ultimate for $109.99; and premier for $159.99. Choice offers the most channels for sports enthusiasts. About Sling RECOMMENDED • cleveland .com Where to watch Browns vs. Steelers without Amazon Prime for free Nov. 21, 2024, 6:15 p.m. BYU vs. Arizona State FREE STREAM: How to watch Big 12 matchup today Nov. 23, 2024, 1:15 p.m. Sling , which features promotional offers for new customers, has a Blue package for $20 for your first month ($40 after that) and an Orange package for the same price and deal. Get both the Blue and Orange packages for $27.50 for your first month ($55 after that). For team hats, shirts and more gear: Visit Fanatics , Dick’s Sporting Goods , Lids , Champs Sports and New Era . Information from the AP was included in this report and AI might have been used to assist with this story.Cowboys Make 5 Roster Moves for ‘MNF’

A South West city has announced several recipients for this year’s event and community assistance funding. Recipients of the city of Busselton’s Events Sponsorship Program have been locked in to receive the city’s pledge of more than $1 million to help reinforce Busselton’s events capital status. Seven events were approve for funding at the city’s November council meeting, with the Festival of Busselton, Carols by the Jetty, Cape Naturaliste Pro and Busselton Runners Club Bay Run some of the recipients. At the meeting, councillors also endorsed round two of the city’s Community Assistance Program 2024-25 recipients for community groups and not-for-profits looking to deliver programs, services and projects to enhance social, environmental and cultural development within the city. Mayor Phill Cronin said the event funding helped support a diverse calendar of events to maximise economic and social benefits for the community and local businesses. He said 12 community and not-for-profit organisations would receive funding through the Community Assistance Program. “The program is an integral part of the city’s Community Development Plan and its aspirations to continue supporting projects that promote a safe, healthy, and capable community,” Mr Cronin said.AP Sports SummaryBrief at 6:02 p.m. ESTHealth In Tech, Inc. Announces Pricing of Initial Public Offering

Health In Tech intends to use the net proceeds from the offering towards system enhancements, the expansion of service offerings, expansion of sales and distribution channels, talent development and retention, working capital and other general corporate purpose. A registration statement on Form S-1 (File No. 333-281853) relating to the shares was filed with the Securities and Exchange Commission and became effective on December 19, 2024 . This offering was made only by means of a prospectus, forming part of the effective registration statement. A copy of the prospectus relating to the offering can be obtained when available, by contacting American Trust Investment Services, Inc., 230 W. Monroe Street , Suite 300, Chicago, IL 60606, or via E-Mail at [email protected] . This press release shall not constitute an offer to sell or the solicitation of an offer to buy any securities, nor shall there be any sale of any securities in any state or jurisdiction in which such offer, solicitation or sale would be unlawful prior to registration or qualification under the securities laws of any such state or jurisdiction. About Health In Tech Health in Tech, Inc. ("HIT") is an Insurtech platform company backed by third-party AI technology. We offer a dynamic marketplace designed to create customized healthcare plan solutions while streamlining processes through vertical integration, process simplification, and automation. By eliminating friction and complexities, HIT enhances value propositions for employers and optimizes underwriting, sales, and service workflows for Managing General Underwriters (MGUs), insurance carriers, licensed brokers, and Third-Party Administrators (TPAs). Learn more at healthintech.com . Forward-Looking Statements Regarding Health In Tech Certain statements in this press release are forward-looking statements for purposes of the safe harbor provisions under the U.S. Private Securities Litigation Reform Act of 1995. Forward-looking statements may include estimates or expectations about Health In Tech's possible or assumed operational results, financial condition, business strategies and plans, market opportunities, competitive position, industry environment, and potential growth opportunities. In some cases, forward-looking statements can be identified by terms such as "may," "will," "should," "design," "target," "aim," "hope," "expect," "could," "intend," "plan," "anticipate," "estimate," "believe," "continue," "predict," "project," "potential," "goal," or other words that convey the uncertainty of future events or outcomes. These statements relate to future events or to Health In Tech's future financial performance, and involve known and unknown risks, uncertainties and other factors that may cause Health In Tech's actual results, levels of activity, performance, or achievements to be different from any future results, levels of activity, performance or achievements expressed or implied by these forward-looking statements. You should not place undue reliance on forward-looking statements because they involve known and unknown risks, uncertainties and other factors which are, in some cases, beyond Health In Tech's control and which could, and likely will, affect actual results, levels of activity, performance or achievements. Any forward-looking statement reflects Health In Tech's current views with respect to future events and is subject to these and other risks, uncertainties and assumptions relating to Health In Tech's operations, results of operations, growth strategy and liquidity. Investor Contact Investor Relations: [email protected]

DETROIT (AP) — In the waning days of President Joe Biden's administration, the government's highway safety agency is proposing voluntary safety guidelines for self-driving vehicles. But a rule from the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration putting the plan in place won't be approved before the end of Biden's term in January and likely will be left to whoever runs the agency under Republican Donald Trump. Tesla CEO Elon Musk, whom Trump has named to co-lead a “Department of Government Efficiency” to cut costs and regulations, has floated the idea of him helping to develop safety standards for self-driving vehicles — even though the standards would affect Tesla's automated driving systems. At present there are no federal regulations that specifically govern autonomous vehicles, and any regulation is left to states. However, self-driving vehicles must meet broad federal safety standards that cover all passenger vehicles. Under the agency's proposal, released on Friday, automakers and autonomous vehicle companies could enroll in a program that would require safety plans and some data reporting for autonomous vehicles operating on public roads. To apply companies would have to have independent assessments of their automated vehicle safety processes, and there would be requirements to report crashes and other problems with the vehicles. Companies would have to give NHTSA information and data on the safety of the design, development and operations of the vehicles. The agency would decide whether to accept companies into the program. But auto safety advocates say the plan falls short of needed regulation for self-driving vehicles. For instance, it doesn't set specific performance standards set for the vehicles such as numbers and types of of sensors or whether the vehicles can see objects in low-visibility conditions, they said. “This is a big bunch of nothing,” said Missy Cummings, director of the autonomy and robotics center at George Mason University and a former safety adviser to NHTSA. “It’ll be more of a completely useless paperwork drill where the companies swear they’re doing the right thing.” Michael Brooks, executive director of the nonprofit Center for Auto Safety, said one of the few good things about the plan is that companies will have to report data on crashes and other problems. There have been reports that the Trump administration may want to scrap a NHTSA order that now requires autonomous vehicle companies to report crashes to the agency so it can collect data. A message was left Friday seeking comment from the Trump transition team on crash reporting requirements. Brooks said the incoming administration probably will want to put out its own version of the guidelines. NHTSA will seek public comment on the plan for about 60 days, then the plan would have to wind its way through the federal regulatory process, which can take months or even years. The agency said it believes the plan can accelerate learning about autonomous vehicles as well as work toward future regulations. “It is important that ADS (Automated Driving System) technology be deployed in a manner that protects the public from unreasonable safety risk while at the same time allowing for responsible development of this technology, which has the potential to advance safety,” the proposed rule says. The agency concedes that in the future, there may be a need for NHTSA to set minimum standards for self driving vehicle performance that are similar to mandatory safety standards that govern human-driven cars. But the agency says it now doesn't have data and metrics to support those standards. The voluntary plan would help gather those, the proposal said.Container truck topples onto Volvo in Bengaluru killing 6 family members

Food Packaging Vacuum Bag Market Outlook and Future Projections for 2030 12-22-2024 01:24 PM CET | Business, Economy, Finances, Banking & Insurance Press release from: Dhirtek Business Research and Consulting Food Packaging Vacuum Bag Market The food packaging vacuum bag market represents a dynamic and continually evolving landscape, shaped by changing consumer demands and technological advancements. In this comprehensive report, we provide an in-depth exploration of the market, designed for a wide range of stakeholders including manufacturers, suppliers, distributors, and investors. Our goal is to equip industry participants with essential insights that enable informed decision-making in an ever-changing market environment. This analysis not only examines the current state of the food packaging vacuum bag market but also forecasts its future trends. Scope and Purpose This report serves as an extensive resource, thoughtfully curated to deliver actionable intelligence to industry stakeholders. It covers critical elements such as market dynamics, competitive environments, growth opportunities, challenges, and regional differences. The insights provided go beyond mere descriptions, offering a valuable tool for stakeholders to refine their strategies and make informed choices in a competitive market. Request for Sample Report: https://www.dhirtekbusinessresearch.com/market-report/Food-Packaging-Vacuum-Bag-Market/request-for-sample-report Comprehensive Market Analysis We are committed to providing a thorough analysis that explores every aspect of market growth, including shifts in consumer preferences and technological innovations driving demand for food packaging vacuum bag products. We also address the challenges faced by the industry, such as economic uncertainties and intense competition, offering insights to help stakeholders navigate these complexities. Key Players in the Food Packaging Vacuum Bag Market: PLASTIÑI Sealer Sales KLH Winpak Flair Packaging IMPAK Corp LEM Products Fibre Glast Vollrath Orved Allfo GmbH Flavorseal IMPAK GrainPro Automicom Essen Multipack Limited Strategic Guidance for the Future This report invites stakeholders to delve into a detailed examination of the competitive landscape. By profiling key players in the food packaging vacuum bag market and analyzing their strategies, we offer crucial insights to help industry participants make informed strategic decisions. Whether it's about outpacing competitors or learning from successful approaches, our analysis is designed to guide stakeholders toward success. Anticipated Insights Understanding the diverse segments within the food packaging vacuum bag market is critical to success. Our report breaks down segment sizes, potential growth trajectories, and key trends, offering actionable insights that allow stakeholders to develop targeted strategies and optimize resource allocation. The knowledge provided empowers stakeholders to navigate the complexities of the food packaging vacuum bag market with clarity and confidence. Balancing Market Forces and Strategic Impact This report delivers a comprehensive analysis of the factors shaping the food packaging vacuum bag market. By evaluating both the drivers of market growth and the obstacles that could impede it, stakeholders gain a holistic understanding of the market's dynamics. For manufacturers, this analysis helps align innovation efforts with consumer demands and regulatory trends, while investors and decision-makers gain a deeper understanding of economic risks and supply chain vulnerabilities, allowing them to make more informed strategic choices. Our goal is to provide stakeholders with the knowledge needed to confidently and successfully navigate the food packaging vacuum bag market. Competitive Landscape Our in-depth examination of the food packaging vacuum bag market's competitive landscape highlights key players, scrutinizing their strategies and impacts on the industry. By analyzing the approaches of major companies, stakeholders gain a valuable understanding of market dynamics and can leverage these insights to identify growth opportunities, innovate, and make informed strategic decisions. Market Segmentation The report begins with a detailed analysis of the unique characteristics defining each segment within the food packaging vacuum bag market. Segmentation can occur across various dimensions, including product types, customer demographics, or specific use cases. Understanding these differences allows stakeholders to tailor their strategies, products, and marketing efforts to meet the specific needs of each segment, enhancing competitive positioning and maximizing opportunities for success. Market Segments: Product Type: Heat-Sealed Vacuum Packaging Bags Vacuum-Sealed Vacuum Packaging Bags Ultrasonic-Sealed Vacuum Packaging Bags Application: Meat and Seafood Fruits and Vegetables Dried Products Others Market Size and Segment Growth Potential A crucial part of the report focuses on understanding the size and significance of each market segment. We provide quantitative data that illustrates the market share and contribution of each segment, enabling stakeholders to make informed decisions regarding resource allocation, strategic prioritization, and investment. This section offers insights into the growth potential of each segment, including factors driving future expansion, evolving consumer preferences, and technological adoption. Conclusion This report serves as a strategic guide for stakeholders in the food packaging vacuum bag market, offering comprehensive insights into market segmentation, competitive dynamics, and growth potential. By understanding the market's complexities and emerging opportunities, industry participants can make well-informed decisions that drive success and innovation in this rapidly evolving market. Other Reports Wood Log Gasification Boilers Market https://www.dhirtekbusinessresearch.com/market-report/Wood-Log-Gasification-Boilers-Market Transport Floorings Market https://www.dhirtekbusinessresearch.com/market-report/Transport-Floorings-Market Wheel Alignment Market https://www.dhirtekbusinessresearch.com/market-report/Wheel-Alignment-Market Silicate Food Anti Caking Agents Market https://www.dhirtekbusinessresearch.com/market-report/Silicate-Food-Anti-Caking-Agents-Market "Contact Us Dhirtek Business Research and Consulting Private Limited Contact No: +91 7580990088 Email Id: sales@dhirtekbusinessresearch.com" "About Us Dhirtek Business Research & Consulting Pvt Ltd is a global market research and consulting services provider headquartered in India. We offer our customers syndicated research reports, customized research reports, and consulting services. Our objective is to enable our clientele to achieve transformational progress and help them to make better strategic business decisions and enhance their global presence. We serve numerous companies worldwide, mobilizing our seasoned workforce to help companies shape their development through proper channeling and execution. We offer our services to large enterprises, start-ups, non-profit organizations, universities, and government agencies. The renowned institutions of various countries and Fortune 500 businesses use our market research services to understand the business environment at the global, regional, and country levels. Our market research reports offer thousands of statistical information and analysis of various industries at a granular level." This release was published on openPR.

Saturday, December 21, 2024 As 2025 approaches, the travel industry braces for a dual focus on cost optimization and climate-conscious strategies. Businesses aim to strike a balance between maintaining service quality and reducing environmental impact amid ongoing challenges. Inflationary pressures are easing, with airfares expected to rise modestly by 0.1% to 0.6% globally. Daily room rates may see a slight increase of 1.9% to 2.9%, reflecting stabilized pricing trends. Corporate travel buyers continue to navigate the evolving landscape of New Distribution Capability (NDC) content. This technology presents an opportunity for improved efficiency, yet introduces complexities for legacy travel management companies (TMCs) competing against tech-savvy newcomers. The anticipated $570 million acquisition of CWT by American Express Global Business Travel is under scrutiny by the UK’s Competition and Markets Authority. Regardless of the outcome, more mergers and acquisitions are expected, potentially transforming the corporate travel sector with impacts on client retention, service levels, and competition. Inflation, while softening, remains a factor influencing travel costs. Morgan Stanley forecasts a 6% year-on-year increase in corporate travel budgets for 2025. However, ongoing conflicts in Ukraine, the Middle East, and potential policy shifts from the new Trump administration could complicate business travel in and out of the United States. Companies may need to adjust strategies to manage these geopolitical challenges effectively. Sustainability remains at the forefront, driven by the EU’s Corporate Sustainability Reporting Directive (CSRD). Businesses are adopting lower-carbon travel options, including rail travel, and revisiting policies to encourage fewer but longer trips. Virtual meetings continue to gain traction as organizations aim to reduce their carbon footprint. New transparency requirements for CO2 emissions reporting and the backlash against supplier greenwashing, spurred by the EU’s Green Claims Directive, are pushing companies to adopt authentic sustainability measures. The industry is learning from 2024’s landmark case against Dutch airline KLM, which highlighted the risks of overstating environmental claims. Technology advancements will continue shaping corporate travel management in 2025. The integration of Generative AI within travel programs is set to accelerate, following promising pilot initiatives in 2024. These AI solutions aim to improve efficiencies, reduce costs, and enhance the traveler experience. Despite technological strides, balancing legacy expertise with modern solutions remains a challenge. The ability to seamlessly integrate rail content into corporate travel platforms and provide accurate emissions data will be critical in securing buy-in from stakeholders and meeting sustainability goals. Predictions for 2024 proved largely accurate, with steady travel demand, cost management challenges, and growing sustainability focus. However, the extent of industry consolidation and the impact on service levels surpassed expectations. Contributors highlighted the need for greater transparency in CO2 reporting and improvements in rail access, both of which remain priorities for 2025. While businesses face pressure from geopolitical tensions, inflation, and climate concerns, there are opportunities to redefine travel strategies. Sustainable practices, driven by regulatory frameworks and corporate commitments, offer a path toward long-term resilience. Enhanced technologies, including NDC content and AI solutions, will empower travel managers to optimize programs and meet evolving demands. 2025 promises to be a transformative year for the travel industry. By leveraging technology, embracing sustainability, and navigating geopolitical challenges, businesses can adapt to the shifting landscape. Collaboration between stakeholders will be essential to achieving cost efficiency, service quality, and environmental goals in the year ahead. Discover everything and anything about travel , tourism , trade shows at the Travel And Tour World , including breaking travel news and weekly travel updates for travel trade , airlines , cruise , railways , technology , travel association , DMCs, and video interviews and promotional videos .Manipulated and Betrayed: How Andhra Pradesh Used Citizen Data to Deny Aid and Control VotesGeorgia QB Carson Beck’s status for Sugar Bowl uncertain as he considers treatment options on elbowPM Modi praises surge in `Made in India` products in Kuwait

: Prime Minister Narendra Modi, during his two-day visit to Kuwait, underscored the growing importance of trade and commerce in strengthening the bilateral ties between India and Kuwait. PM Modi is on a two-day visit to the Gulf nation of Kuwait at the invitation of Sheikh Meshal Al-Ahmad Al-Jaber Al-Sabah, the Emir of the State of Kuwait. This is the first visit by an Indian Prime Minister to Kuwait in 43 years. In an interview with Kuwait News Agency (KUNA) on Saturday, he highlighted the significant rise in two-way trade, emphasising their energy partnership and the increasing presence of “Made in India” products across various sectors in Kuwait. “Trade and commerce have been important pillars of our bilateral relationship. Our bilateral trade has been on an upswing. Our energy partnership adds a unique value to our bilateral trade,” PM Modi said. “We are happy to see ‘Made in India’ products, particularly in automobile, electrical and mechanical machinery, and telecom segments making new inroads in Kuwait. India today is manufacturing world-class products at the most affordable cost. Diversification to non-oil trade is key to achieving greater bilateral trade,” the Prime Minister said. He further spoke about deepening the potential for collaboration in diverse fields such as health, technology, digital, innovation and textiles. PM Modi further said that India and Kuwait share a deep and historic bond and the relationship between both countries has always been one of warmth and friendship and the crosscurrents of history and exchanges through ideas and commerce have brought people close and together, KUNA reported. “We have traded with each other since times immemorial. The discoveries in Failaka Island speak of our shared past. The Indian Rupee was a legal tender in Kuwait for over a century till 1961. This shows how closely our economies were integrated,” PM Modi told KUNA. He further said, “Overall, the bilateral ties are progressing well and if I could say, scaling new heights. I eagerly look forward to my talks with His Highness the Emir to elevate our ties in various areas including defence, trade, investment, and energy. The strong roots of our historical ties must be matched by the fruits of our 21st-century partnership – dynamic, robust and multifaceted. There is a lot we have achieved together, but possibilities are limitless for our partnership. I am sure this visit will give new wings to it.” Earlier today on Sunday received a rousing ceremonial welcome and a Guard of Honour in Kuwait during his state trip to the Gulf country. PM Modi was accorded a ceremonial guard of honour at the Bayan Palace, Kuwait. The Emir of Kuwait, Sheikh Meshal Al-Ahmad Al-Jaber Al Sabah also present during the ceremony. The details of the meeting were also shared by the Spokesperson of the Ministry of External Affairs on X. “A special welcome on historic visit! PM @narendramodi arrives at the Bayan Palace in Kuwait to a ceremonial welcome and Guard of Honour. Warmly received by HH Sheikh Ahmed Abdullah Al-Ahmed Al-Sabah, PM of Kuwait. Extensive talks with HH the Amir, Crown Prince and PM of Kuwait lie ahead,” Randhir Jaiswal wrote. On Saturday, he visited the Gulf Spic Labour Camp in Kuwait, where he interacted with Indian workers and highlighted their contribution to the country’s development. PM Modi spoke about the aspirations of Indian workers, linking them to his vision for a “Viksit Bharat 2047.” (ANI)

WASHINGTON (AP) — President Joe Biden kicked off his final holiday season at the White House on Monday by issuing the traditional reprieve to two turkeys who will bypass the Thanksgiving table to live out their days in southern Minnesota. Biden welcomed 2,500 guests to the South Lawn under sunny skies as he cracked jokes about the fates of “Peach” and “Blossom” and sounded wistful tones about the last weeks of his presidency after a half-century in Washington power circles. “It’s been the honor of my life. I’m forever grateful,” Biden said, taking note of his impending departure on Jan. 20, 2025. That's when power will transfer to Republican President-elect Donald Trump, the man Biden defeated four years ago and was battling again until he was pressured to bow out of the race amid concerns about his age and viability. Biden is 82. Until Inauguration Day, the president and first lady Jill Biden will continue a busy run of festivities that will double as their long goodbye. The White House schedule in December is replete with holiday parties for various constituencies, from West Wing staff to members of Congress and the White House press corps. Biden relished the brief ceremony with the pardoned turkeys, named for the official flower of the president's home state of Delaware. “The peach pie in my state is one of my favorites,” he said during remarks that were occasionally interrupted by Peach gobbling atop the table to Biden's right. “Peach is making a last-minute plea,” Biden said at one point, drawing laughter from an overflow crowd that included Cabinet members, White House staff and their families, and students from 4H programs and Future Farmers of America chapters. Biden introduced Peach as a bird who “lives by the motto, ‘Keep calm and gobble on.’” Blossom, the president said, has a different motto: “No fowl play. Just Minnesota nice.” Peach and Blossom came from the farm of John Zimmerman, near the southern Minnesota city of Northfield. Zimmerman, who has raised about 4 million turkeys, is president of the National Turkey Federation, the group that has gifted U.S. presidents Thanksgiving turkeys since the Truman administration after World War II. President Harry Truman, however, preferred to eat the birds. Official pardon ceremonies did not become an annual White House tradition until the administration of President George H.W. Bush in 1989. With their presidential reprieve, Peach and Blossom will live out their days at Farmamerica, an agriculture interpretative center near Waseca in southern Minnesota. The center's aim is to promote agriculture and educate future farmers and others about agriculture in America. Separately Monday, first lady Jill Biden received the official White House Christmas tree that will be decorated and put on display in the Blue Room. The 18.5 foot (5.64 meters) Fraser fir came from a farm in an area of western North Carolina that recently was devastated by Hurricane Helene . Cartner’s Christmas Tree Farm lost thousands of trees in the storm “but this one remained standing and they named it ‘Tremendous’ for the extraordinary hope that it represents,” Jill Biden said at the event. The Bidens also traveled to New York City on Monday for an evening “Friendsgiving” event at a Coast Guard station on Staten Island. Biden began his valedictory calendar Friday night with a gala for hundreds of his friends, supporters and staff members who gathered in a pavilion erected on the South Lawn, with a view out to the Lincoln Memorial. Cabinet secretaries, Democratic donors and his longest-serving staff members came together to hear from the president and pay tribute, with no evidence that Biden was effectively forced from the Democratic ticket this summer and watched Vice President Kamala Harris suffer defeat on Nov. 5. “I’m so proud that we’ve done all of this with a deep belief in the core values of America,” said Biden, sporting a tuxedo for the black-tie event. Setting aside his criticisms of Trump as a fundamental threat to democracy, Biden added his characteristic national cheerleading: “I fully believe that America is better positioned to lead the world today than at any point in my 50 years of public service.” The first lady toasted her husband with a nod to his 2020 campaign promise to “restore the soul of the nation,” in Trump’s aftermath. With the results on Election Day, however, Biden’s four years now become sandwiched in the middle of an era dominated by Trump's presence on the national stage and in the White House. Even as the first couple avoided the context surrounding the president's coming exit, those political realities were nonetheless apparent, as younger Democrats like Maryland Gov. Wes Moore , Illinois Gov. J.B. Pritzker and Biden's Secretary of Transportation Pete Buttigieg not only raised their glasses to the president but held forth with many attendees who could remain in the party's power circles in the 2028 election cycle and beyond. ___ Associated Press writer Steve Karnowski in Minneapolis contributed to this report.

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