#jlbet

#jlbet A social media ban encompassing children and younger teens in Australia brought up a serious question societies have been facing for years but somehow choose to neglect. Should young kids have uninterrupted access to social media platforms and how can we tackle certain harms platforms pose? This year marked the 20th anniversary since Facebook entered our lives and forever changed the course of how we interact with each other, exchange views, share important dates and in the end, basically interact on a daily basis. This platform grew rapidly as users became intrigued with sharing the photos on their timelines, playing FarmVille and much more. Many more platforms followed, and their user bases were expanding equally fast. In recent years we got TikTok, Threads and before that Snapchat and Instagram. But what once looked like a simple way to connect soon emerged as something much larger. These platforms became a web for content creators and in some cases predators alike. While many rely on content creation to earn a living, concerns about other social media aspects persist. What struck me the most, in addition to bizarre examples of personal identities being stolen or people being swindled, was an investigative story shared by The New York Times earlier this year: "A Marketplace of Girl Influencers Managed by Moms and Stalked by Men." It offered an in-depth story showing the importance and role of parents in ensuring or at least trying to ensure their children's online safety. "Over the years, Elissa has fielded all kinds of criticism and knows full well that some people think she is exploiting her daughter," the article said, detailing the experience and story of a mom running a modeling account for her young daughter. I instantly remembered it when considering a more pressing issue: children's safety on the web. The ban on under-16s using social media starting in 2025 recently adopted by the Australian Parliament brought even more focus to this complex issue. While authorities should step in instances when public safety comes into question, I think this issue has a broader correlation with how fast certain technologies proliferate and the new norm of having and using smartphones. Thus, people tend to linger on big platforms like X, Facebook and Instagram. And of course, there is a role of families in this as well. Just a couple of days ago I read about the concept of "containment" in technology and the more I think of the bans on social media, I go back to it. What if it would be possible to predict certain harmful impacts of technology, in this case, social media and apps, and work on issues before they become widespread? Internet access is surely a blessing and social media, although in some cases disruptive, is also a major force that makes our work easier, helps us broaden our horizons, remain in touch with relatives and friends living miles away, and so on. But specifically when it comes to kids and their safety, that is where red flags pop up. Quite naive and very young, children adapt to online space, video games and long stints in front of the screen, which according to many studies are proven to have adverse effects on eyesight and posture but also often result in a lack of real-life connections. Compare the kids from the '90s and those from Generation Alpha and you will easily spot the difference. While families and monitoring also play a decisive role, the fact is that children born in 2020 will naturally have closer ties to readily available technology, especially social media, than those born some five decades before them. The kids of the newer generation are born to parents who have used the internet and social media for the larger part of their lives, and this is a new standard. Yet, how we decide to introduce certain things to these children, including social media, and at what pace stays broadly our personal decision. Nevertheless, surroundings and friends at times also play a role in introducing kids to Instagram, TikTok, Roblox and YouTube, whether we like it or not. That is where regulation and countermeasures start to make sense. Although in my opinion, it is a bit unclear how you could enforce a straight ban on a kid who is already 13 or 14, some measures such as parental device monitoring can play a key role and work to at least partly minimize the potential negative impacts. Evaluating media literacy, a report by the U.K.-based communications regulator Ofcom in April this year found that "five-to-seven-year-olds are becoming increasingly present online," which it said may pose "greater risks for them." "Children this age are also more likely to use WhatsApp (37% vs 29%), TikTok (30% vs 25%), Instagram (22% vs 14%), and Discord (4% vs 2%) compared to last year," the report said. On the other hand, new data from the WHO Regional Office for Europe cited in September "a sharp rise in problematic social media use among adolescents, with rates increasing from 7% in 2018 to 11% in 2022." The report defined problematic social media use as a pattern of behavior characterized with addiction-like symptoms. "These include an inability to control social media usage, experiencing withdrawal when not using it, neglecting other activities in favor of social media," it said. However, the debate on the risks of social media is much broader. Ministers in Sweden's government are considering imposing age limits on social media platforms if tech companies find themselves unable to prevent gangs from recruiting young people online to "carry out murders and bombings in the Nordics," Reuters reported on Monday. Gang violence and high crime rates per capita have been an issue for this Northern European country for some time now, yet it appears that police and authorities have identified the role of social media in it as well. Social media's effect on other aspects of daily life also comes to the fore. Consider the word "brain-rot" we've been hearing about a lot this last week. "Brain rot" is the official Word of the Year for 2024, according to the Oxford English Dictionary’s publisher, Oxford University Press. It is defined as the "supposed deterioration of a person’s mental or intellectual state," resulting from the “overconsumption” of trivial material, especially stuff found on the internet and social media. It is the result of mindless scrolling on social media. This word spiked in popularity this year, pointing to yet another danger of the virtual environment. Currently at a crossroads and facing uncertain times amid many geopolitical fluctuations and the rapid proliferation of other technologies such as AI, social media should not be our primary focus and source of external contact. We should push ourselves and those younger than us that there is a world outside of it – no matter how hard that might seem.How major US stock indexes fared Tuesday, 12/3/2024

BC Quashes Controversial Bill Limiting Public Drug Use

In terms of economic performance, China demonstrated resilience and adaptability in the face of global uncertainties. Despite external pressures and economic headwinds, the nation maintained a steady course, leveraging its strengths in innovation, technology, and infrastructure to drive growth. Strategic investments in key sectors such as advanced manufacturing, green energy, and digital economy yielded significant returns, positioning China as a global leader in the new economy.

Recently, more than 20% of money market funds in China have seen their 7-day annualized yield fall below 1.3%, with Tianhong Yu'ebao hitting a historic low. The decline in the yield of money market funds has raised concerns among investors and experts alike, signaling potential challenges in the current economic environment.For the fifth consecutive time, the Bank of Canada has cut its key interest rate. Down half a per cent, the rate now sits at 3.25 per cent. This, after Canada’s economy grew by one per cent in the third quarter of 2024, and the fourth quarter is looking weaker than projected, according to the Bank of Canada. In London, the CEO of the London – St. Thomas Association of Realtors (STAR), says while it isn’t a big drop, it’s reassuring to see the interest rate head in the right direction. “It's not a huge difference financially, but it's more, I think, the perception and the understanding that it is going to go to a reasonable, a better level. And we're, we're anticipating a really good impact on the market in the new year,” said Bill Madder. “We're quite happy that it's not a huge jump or that we don't anticipate a huge jump in the market. Slow and steady. That's a much better way for a real estate market to go.” Meanwhile, local mortgage experts agree this cut will be positive for the region. “It's going to be a big impact on two fronts. I mean, people that are currently carrying a variable rate mortgage where the payments will fluctuate with the rate. They're going to see a pretty good discount on what they're paying now, which is probably going to alleviate some pressure on them,” said mortgage broker Mike Hattim. “A lot of people, you know, they're fearful of getting into the into the market with home prices being almost three times what they were 10 years ago. I think that now they're going to feel a little bit more comfort in getting into the market. And I think this is a positive.” The Bank of Canada’s next scheduled date for announcing the overnight rate target is Jan. 29, 2025. The Bank of Canada’s next scheduled date for announcing the overnight rate target is Jan. 29, 2025. — With files from CTV’s Mike Le Couteur and CTV London's Brent Lale 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. 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While some villagers were quick to sympathize with the lost graduate student, praising Mrs. Li for her compassion and willingness to help a stranger in need, others expressed skepticism and raised doubts about the young woman's true identity and intentions. Some whispered tales of espionage and conspiracy, suggesting that the graduate student might be a spy or an imposter sent to infiltrate the village for unknown reasons. These rumors quickly gained traction, fueling suspicion and fear among the villagers.Riding a 3-game win streak, the Bengals cling to playoff hopes with the Broncos next CINCINNATI (AP) — The Cincinnati Bengals took care of business and won three straight games for the first time this season. Mitch Stacy, The Associated Press Dec 23, 2024 2:25 PM Dec 23, 2024 2:36 PM Share by Email Share on Facebook Share on X Share on LinkedIn Print Share via Text Message Cincinnati Bengals wide receiver Andrei Iosivas (80) reacts after catching the ball during the second half of an NFL football game against the Cleveland Browns, Sunday, Dec. 22, 2024, in Cincinnati. The Bengals won 24-6. (AP Photo/Joshua A. Bickel) CINCINNATI (AP) — The Cincinnati Bengals took care of business and won three straight games for the first time this season. Cincinnati is playing its best football, but it might be too late to sneak into the playoffs, with five teams battling for the two remaining AFC postseason spots. At 7-8, the Bengals are on the bubble along with two other teams that have the same record, the Colts and Dolphins. To have a chance, the Bengals will need to beat the visiting Denver Broncos (9-6) on Saturday, then try to take down the Steelers (10-5) at Pittsburgh in the regular-season finale. They'll need some help from other teams, too. The rub for the Bengals is that they have yet to beat a team with a winning record this season. Now with some momentum for the first time, the Bengals will have to clear that hurdle. “It’s just what it’s supposed to feel like for us. This is our expectation," coach Zac Taylor said after the Bengals beat the Cleveland Browns 24-6 on Sunday. “We just put ourselves in a position to now play some real meaningful games. ... We found a way to get the win and now we can turn our focus to a short week and the Denver Broncos.” What's working Joe Burrow became the first player in NFL history to throw for at least 250 yards and three or more touchdowns in seven consecutive games. One of his TD passes, to Tee Higgins, came as he was falling down. He finished 23 for 30 for 252 yards. ... Ja'Marr Chase continues to build his resume as he strives to win the receiving “triple crown.” He had six catches for 97 yards and a touchdown against the Browns and leads the league in receptions, yards and TDs. ... K Cade York tied a franchise record with a 59-yard field goal. “The guys have responded this way all season,” Taylor said. “We lost some heartbreakers to be quite frank, and games that just came down to the end. It doesn’t mean that we’ve had a bad football team and we weren’t in it. We’ve been in this, and now — I don’t want to say getting our confidence back, because we’ve had confidence — but we’re just making the plays necessary at the critical points of the game to take control of these games. That’s really what’s happened the last three weeks, and we’ve got to continue that.” What needs help Burrow has fumbled 10 times this season. Against the Browns, he lost a fumble on a strip-sack with the Bengals on the Cleveland 2-yard-line. Stock up Last week, S Jordan Battle scooped a fumble and ran it all the way back, only to fumble as he crossed the goal line, leading to a touchback. Against the Browns, he intercepted a second-half pass from Dorian Thompson-Robinson in the end zone. The Bengals' defense has nine takeaways in the past two games. Stock down Cincinnati's depleted offensive line allowed four sacks. Injuries The offensive line took a hit when tackle Amarius Mims went out with an ankle injury and didn't return. Key number 5.1 — Yards per carry by RB Chase Brown, who seems to get better every week. He had 18 carries for 91 yards. Next steps The Bengals continue their improbable effort to slip into the playoffs when they host the Broncos in their home finale on Saturday. They finish the season the following week at Pittsburgh. ___ AP NFL: https://apnews.com/hub/NFL Mitch Stacy, The Associated Press See a typo/mistake? Have a story/tip? This has been shared 0 times 0 Shares Share by Email Share on Facebook Share on X Share on LinkedIn Print Share via Text Message Get your daily Victoria news briefing Email Sign Up More Football (NFL) Bills offense is 'Cooking,' with running game adding a powerful new dimension Dec 23, 2024 2:22 PM Eagles QB Jalen Hurts is in the NFL’s concussion protocol. His status for Sunday is uncertain Dec 23, 2024 2:19 PM Steelers WR George Pickens returns to practice, hopeful to play against Chiefs Dec 23, 2024 2:01 PM

In conclusion, the scandal involving the chief prosecutor in Heilongjiang Province serves as a stark reminder of the challenges facing the legal profession in maintaining ethical standards and upholding public trust. It underlines the need for vigilance, transparency, and accountability in the pursuit of justice and the preservation of the rule of law.(CNN) — The North Carolina House voted Wednesday to override Democratic Gov. Roy Cooper’s veto of a bill that will restrict the powers of the incoming governor and other Democrats, clearing the way for the legislation to become law. The bill passed with 72 members voting for the override and 46 against. The state Senate voted to override the governor’s veto last week. Under the bill, the incoming Democratic governor, Josh Stein , would be stripped of appointments to key state boards and control of the State Board of Elections will be transferred to the state auditor, a Republican. The legislation also shifts power away from the incoming lieutenant governor, attorney general and superintendent of public instruction, all Democrats. The bill was introduced after last month’s elections, when Democrats broke the GOP’s legislative supermajority. Republicans will lose their ability to override gubernatorial vetoes after the new legislature is seated in January. During Wednesday’s debate over the veto override, Republican state Rep. Destin Hall argued the legislation had become a “political football.” “The reality is, in this state, the Constitution gives this body the ability to make certain decisions, and the folks elected this body – just as they did the governor or governor-elect Stein coming in – and that’s what we’ve done in this bill,” Hall said. In his veto message last month, Cooper called the bill a “sham” that “shuffles money from one fund to another.” Billed as disaster relief funding following massive flooding in western North Carolina caused by Hurricane Helene earlier this year, the legislation transfers $227 million from a state savings fund to a Helene fund. The funds cannot be spent until appropriated by the legislature. Democrats from hard hit western North Carolina called on the legislature to do more to provide aid, and criticized the lack of appropriated funding in the legislation. “This bill just doesn’t meet the moment, and it doesn’t meet North Carolina’s values,” said Democratic state Rep. Eric Ager, who represents Asheville’s Buncombe County. “This bill just seems to do something to help, it doesn’t actually do it.” Stein, the governor-elect, also blasted the legislation as a “power grab” during a briefing with reporters last week. “It’s petty and wrong-headed, it’s contrary to what the voters of North Carolina have just done in this election and who they elected,” Stein said. Democrats have also balked at the effort to strip power from incoming statewide Democratic officials, particularly transferring control of the State Board of Elections. “It is just purely a partisan move, overturning decades of tradition in North Carolina that has worked well,” said Democratic state Sen. Julie Mayfield. “It has worked well under Republican governors. It has worked well under Democratic governors. They just don’t like it.” Republicans have argued the power shifting provisions were meant to increase bipartisanship. Matt Mercer, the communications director of the North Carolina Republican Party, framed the election provisions as a response to a governor who has “had this thumb on the scale” with appointments to election boards. “I think this is the legislatue asserting that they still have power, too,” Mercer said. “ This is just a way that we can continue to have a balanced government in North Carolina.” The new law marks the latest chapter in the Republican-led legislature’s efforts to reshape the balance of power, particularly when it comes to control over elections. In 2016, outgoing Republican Gov. Pat McCrory signed legislation that gave the legislature more influence over election board appointments. Cooper sued, and the state Supreme Court ruled in his favor . Voters rejected a 2018 proposed constitutional amendment backed by Republicans in the General Assembly to allow House and Senate leaders to appoint all members of the State Election Board. Earlier this year state court judges blocked another effort by the legislature to strip the governor of his ability to appoint election board members. The-CNN-Wire TM & © 2024 Cable News Network, Inc., a Warner Bros. Discovery Company. All rights reserved.

Title: Gu Ai Ling Wins Championship over the Weekend and Returns to Class at Oxford University on Monday! Netizens: Incredible Energy, Persisting with GloryThroughout the trial, both the prosecution and defense presented compelling arguments, with the prosecution painting the military personnel as an aggressor who used excessive and unnecessary force, while the defense argued that the actions taken were justified in the face of a volatile and dangerous situation. The jury was tasked with carefully evaluating the evidence presented and determining whether the military personnel's actions constituted a criminal offense.

Kevin Roi Canubas, 29 and a first-time dad, will miss his daughter’s first Christmas so the festive lights in homes can continue to shine. Kevin’s Noche Buena this year would be in the Cayanga-Bugallon solar plant in Pangasinan, where he works as a Grid Manager for Hedcor, AboitizPower’s renewable energy asset manager, together with his team and away from his family. “As a first-time dad, I sometimes find myself missing key moments with my daughter, especially as she celebrates her first Christmas. It’s never easy, but it’s all part of the responsibility I’ve embraced in this industry,” Kevin said. “We approach every day — whether it’s a holiday or not — as just another Monday because, in the power industry, energy is always in demand, no matter the season. This holiday season is no exception,” he explained.

Moreover, Russia's involvement in the conflict in Ukraine and its ongoing confrontation with Western powers have also had a negative impact on its influence in the Middle East. The imposition of sanctions by the United States and its allies has put pressure on Russia's economy, limiting its ability to continue its military interventions in the Middle East and weakening its position as a key player in regional politics.

NEW YORK — The man accused of shooting and killing the CEO of UnitedHealthcare pleaded not guilty Monday to state murder and terror charges while his attorney complained that comments coming from New York’s mayor would make it tough to receive a fair trial. Luigi Mangione, 26, was shackled and seated in a Manhattan court when he leaned over to a microphone to enter his plea. The Manhattan district attorney charged him last week with multiple counts of murder, including murder as an act of terrorism. Mangione’s initial appearance in New York’s state trial court was preempted by federal prosecutors bringing their own charges over the shooting. The federal charges could carry the possibility of the death penalty, while the maximum sentence for the state charges is life in prison without parole. Prosecutors say the two cases will proceed on parallel tracks, with the state charges expected to go to trial first. One of Mangione’s attorneys told a judge that government officials, including New York Mayor Eric Adams, turned Mangione into a political pawn, robbing him of his rights as a defendant and tainting the jury pool. “I am very concerned about my client’s right to a fair trial,” Karen Friedman Agnifilo said. Adams and Police Commissioner Jessica Tisch stood among a throng of heavily armed officers Thursday when Mangione was flown to a Manhattan heliport and escorted up a pier after being extradited from Pennsylvania. Friedman Agnifilo said police turned Mangione’s return to New York into a choreographed spectacle. Adams is himself scheduled to stand trial on federal corruption charges next year. He pleaded not guilty and vowed to remain in office as he fights the charges. Authorities say Mangione gunned down Brian Thompson as he was walking to an investor conference in midtown Manhattan on the morning of Dec 4. Mangione was arrested in a Pennsylvania McDonald’s after a five-day search, carrying a gun that matched the one used in the shooting and a fake ID, police said. Mangione is being held in a Brooklyn federal jail alongside several other high-profile defendants, including Sean “Diddy” Combs and Sam Bankman-Fried. Get local news delivered to your inbox!