wow 888
The presidential candidate of the conservative coalition that has governed Uruguay for the past five years conceded defeat on Sunday after a close runoff election even as the vote count continued. Álvaro Delgado, the center-right government’s candidate, told his supporters at his campaign headquarters that “with sadness, but without guilt, we can congratulate the winner,” referring to left-wing challenger Yamandú Orsi. Electoral officials said that Orsi had secured 784,523 votes with over half of all ballots counted, compared to Delgado’s 771,434. The Broad Front released a statement on X saying that “Joy will return” and announcing Orsi as president. Delgado’s concession, with more than 57% of official votes counted, ushers in Orsi of the center-left Broad Front as Uruguay’s new leader. It spells an end to the short stint of the right-leaning government in Uruguay that, in 2020, with the election of President Luis Lacalle Pou, had broken 15 years of rule by the Broad Front. The Broad Front drew international acclaim over those years for overseeing the legalization of abortion, same-sex marriage and the sale of marijuana. The Broad Front released a statement on X saying that “Joy will return” and announcing Orsi as president. “I called Yamandú Orsi to congratulate him as President-elect of our country,” Lacalle Pou wrote on social media platform X, adding that he would “put myself at his service and begin the transition as soon as I deem it appropriate.” THIS IS A BREAKING NEWS UPDATE. AP’s earlier story follows below. MONTEVIDEO, Uruguay (AP) — Uruguayans on Sunday voted in the second round of the country's presidential election, with the conservative governing party and a left-leaning coalition locked in a close runoff following level-headed campaigns widely seen as emblematic of the country's strong democracy. As polls closed Sunday evening, turnout stood at 89.4 per cent — around the same as during the first round last month in which the two moderate coalitions both failed to win an outright majority. Voting in Uruguay is compulsory. The information you need to know, sent directly to you: Download the CTV News App Depending on how tight the vote turns out to be, electoral officials may not call the race for days — as happened in the contentious 2019 runoff that brought center-right President Luis Lacalle Pou to office and ended 15 years of rule by Uruguay’s left-leaning Broad Front by a razor-thin margin. Álvaro Delgado, the incumbent party’s candidate who won nearly 27 per cent in the first round of voting on Oct. 27, has campaigned under the slogan “re-elect a good government." Other conservative parties that make up the government coalition — in particular, the Colorado Party that came in third place last month — notched 20 per cent of the vote collectively, enough to give Delgado an edge over his challenger. Yamandú Orsi from the Broad Front, who took 44 per cent of the vote in the general election, is promising to forge a “new left” in Uruguay that draws on the memory of stability and economic growth under his Broad Front coalition, which presided over pioneering social reforms that won widespread international acclaim from 2005-2020, including the legalization of abortion, same-sex marriage and sale of marijuana. With inflation easing and the economy expected to expand by some 3.2 per cent this year, according to the International Monetary Fund, surveys show that Uruguayans remain largely satisfied with the administration of Lacalle Pou, who constitutionally cannot run for a second consecutive term. But persistent complaints about sluggish growth, stagnant wages and an upsurge in violent crime could just as easily add the small South American nation to a long list of places this year where frustrated voters have punished incumbents in elections around the world. With most polls showing a virtual tie between Delgado and Orsi, analysts say the vote may hinge on a small group of undecided voters — roughly 10 per cent of registered voters in the nation of 3.4 million people. “Neither candidate convinced me and I feel that there are many in my same situation,” said Vanesa Gelezoglo, 31, in the capital, Montevideo, adding she would make up her mind at “the last minute.” Yamandu Orsi, presidential candidate from the Broad Front, votes in the presidential run-off election in Canelones, Uruguay, Sunday, Nov. 24, 2024. (AP Photo/Matilde Campodonico) Analysts say the candidates’ lackluster campaigns and broad consensus on key issues have generated extraordinary indecision and apathy in an election dominated by discussions about social spending and concerns over income inequality but largely free of the anti-establishment rage that has vaulted populist outsiders to power in neighboring Argentina and the United States. “The question of whether Frente Amplio (the Broad Front) raises taxes is not an existential question, unlike what we saw in the U.S. with Trump and Kamala framing each other as threats to democracy," said Nicolás Saldías, a Latin America and Caribbean senior analyst for the London-based Economist Intelligence Unit. “That doesn't exist in Uruguay.” Both candidates are also appealing to voter angst over the current government's struggle to stem the rise in violent crime that has shaken a nation long regarded as one of the region’s safest, with Delgado promising tough-on-crime policies and Orsi advocating a more community-oriented approach. 5 Things to Know newsletter: Get the biggest headlines in your inbox each morning Delgado, 55, a rural veterinarian with a long career in the National Party, served most recently as Secretary of the Presidency for Lacalle Pou and promises to pursue his predecessor’s pro-business policies. He would continue pushing for a trade deal with China that has raised hackles in Mercosur, an alliance of South American countries promoting regional commerce. "We have to give the government coalition a chance to consolidate its proposals,” said Ramiro Pérez, a street vendor voting for Delgado on Sunday. Alvaro Delgado, candidate for the ruling National Party, waves to supporters after voting in Montevideo, Uruguay, Sunday, Nov. 24, 2024. (AP Photo/Jon Orbach) Orsi, 57, a former history teacher and two-time mayor from a working-class background, is widely seen as the political heir to former President José “Pepe” Mujica, an ex-Marxist guerilla who became a global icon for helping transform Uruguay into one of the region's most socially liberal and environmentally sustainable nations. “He's my candidate, not only for my sake but also for my children's,” Yeny Varone, a nurse at a polling station, said of Orsi. “In the future they'll have better working conditions, health and salaries.” Mujica, now 89 and recovering from esophageal cancer, turned up at his local polling station before balloting even began, praising Orsi's humility and Uruguay’s famous stability. “This is no small feat,” he said of Uruguay's “citizenry that respects formal institutions.” Orsi planned no dramatic changes, and, despite his call for a revitalized left-wing, his platform continues the Broad Front's traditional mix of market-friendly policies and welfare programs. He proposes tax incentives to lure investment and social security reforms that would lower the retirement age but fall short of a radical overhaul sought by Uruguay's unions. Yeni Varone, a nurse, casts her vote in the presidential run-off election in Montevideo, Uruguay, Sunday, Nov. 24, 2024. (AP Photo/Natacha Pisarenko) The contentious plebiscite on whether to boost pension payouts failed to pass in October, with Uruguayans rejecting generous pensions in favor of fiscal constraint. Both candidates pledged full cooperation with each other if elected. “I want (Orsi) to know that my idea is to form a government of national unity,” Delgado told reporters after casting his vote in the capital's upscale Pocitos neighborhood. He said that if he won, he and Orsi would chat on Monday over some yerba mate, the traditional herbal drink beloved by Uruguayans. Follow the CTV News channel on WhatsApp Orsi described Sunday's democratic exercise as “an incredible experience" as he voted in Canelones, the sprawling town of beaches and cattle ranches just north of Montevideo where he served as mayor for a decade. “The essence of politics is agreements,” he said. “You never end up completely satisfied.” Associated Press writer Isabel DeBre in Villa Tunari, Bolivia, contributed to this report.After weeks of fear and bewilderment about the drones buzzing over parts of New York and New Jersey , U.S. Senator Chuck Schumer is urging the federal government to deploy better drone-tracking technology to identify and ultimately stop the airborne pests. The New York Democrat is calling on the Department of Homeland Security to immediately deploy special technology that identifies and tracks drones back to their landing spots, according to briefings from his office. Schumer’s calls come amid growing public concern that the federal government hasn’t offered clear explanations as to who is operating the drones, and has not stopped them. National security officials have said the drones don’t appear to be a sign of foreign interference. “There’s a lot of us who are pretty frustrated right now,” said Rep. Jim Himes, D-Conn., the top Democrat on the House Intelligence Committee, on Fox News Sunday. “The answer ‘We don’t know’ is not a good enough answer.” President-elect Donald Trump posted on social media last week: “Can this really be happening without our government’s knowledge? I don’t think so. Let the public know, and now. Otherwise, shoot them down.” Certain agencies within the Department of Homeland Security have the power to “incapacitate” drones, U.S. Secretary of Homeland Security Alejandro Mayorkas told ABC’s George Stephanopoulos on Sunday. “But we need those authorities expanded,” he said, without saying exactly how. The drones don’t appear to be linked to foreign governments, Mayorkas said. “We know of no foreign involvement with respect to the sightings in the Northeast. And we are vigilant in investigating this matter,” Mayorkas said. Last year, federal aviation rules began requiring certain drones to broadcast their identities. It’s not clear whether that information has been used to determine who is operating the drones swarming locations in New York and New Jersey. Mayorkas’ office didn’t immediately respond to questions about whether they’ve been able to identify drones using this capability. Schumer is calling for recently declassified radar technology to be used to help determine whether an object is a drone or a bird, identify its electronic registration, and follow it back to its landing place. New York Gov. Kathy Hochul on Sunday said federal officials were sending a drone detection system to the state. “This system will support state and federal law enforcement in their investigations,” Hochul said in a statement. The governor did not immediately provide additional details including where they system will be deployed. Dozens of mysterious nighttime flights started last month over New Jersey, raising concerns among residents and officials. Part of the worry stems from the flying objects initially being spotted near the Picatinny Arsenal, a U.S. military research and manufacturing facility and over Trump’s golf course in Bedminster. Drones are legal in New Jersey for recreational and commercial use, but they are subject to local and Federal Aviation Administration regulations and flight restrictions. Operators must be FAA certified. Copyright 2024 The Associated Press. All rights reserved. This material may not be published, broadcast, rewritten or redistributed without permission. Get local news delivered to your inbox!
Five Counties Children’s Centre is striving to help families ensure their holidays are happy by offering tips to keep spirits bright and stress under wraps this season. The anxiety and upheaval of extra demands and different routines can make the holidays challenging for parents and children alike, according to a media release from Five Counties, which provides therapy services for children with special needs in Peterborough, Kawartha Lakes, Haliburton, and Northumberland, However, “celebrating the season can still be merry and bright when it’s managed right.” “The holidays can mean a drastic change in schedules and a lot of disruption to routine — which as any parent will tell you, can impact the rhythm of family life,” Five Counties spokesperson Bill Eekhof told kawarthaNOW. “There’s also added excitement and anticipation that come with the holidays, especially for kids, given what awaits them under the tree and where or whom they will visit. Parents and caregivers may also feel pressured to ensure their family has an enjoyable holiday season.” Eekhof added that, while managing the stress of the holidays can be especially challenging for parents and caregivers of children with special needs, it applies to all families. Nicole Captain, an occupational therapist with Five Counties, has some tips for helping families manage the extra pressure of the holiday season and helping children cope with the excitement, anticipation, and altered routines that come with the holidays. Tips includes creating a visual schedule or calendar so children can see what is being planned for holiday time (including breaks or downtime), using photos or maps to help prepare children before travelling to visit family or friends for the holidays, and discussing holiday plans as a family to help manage change and expectations and to choose activities that everyone would like to do together. “Parents and caregivers often feel guilty and pressured to have the picture-perfect holiday that they see on social media or in the movies, but that isn’t always the reality,” Captain said. “The fact is we can still enjoy happy holidays if we keep things simple, stick to structure, go back to basics, and are flexible.” Captain, who works in school-based rehabilitation services at Five Counties, provides occupational therapy support to students and often discusses self-regulation in her classes. “I always tell parents to put on your oxygen mask first, to meet your own regulation needs and support your nervous system so that you can support your child’s needs.” Captain said it’s important to manage the variables that are within control. This including getting enough rest and sticking to sleep schedules, selecting a quiet space where family members can rejuvenate, and eating well and staying well-hydrated. “It’s really going back to the basics,” Captain noted. “We’re optimizing our bodies on the inside to cope with all the stress and changes that go on outside and around us.” Another tip is to unplug from technology as much as possible and make meaningful connections by spending time together as a family. “While being together doesn’t require a lot of preparation, make it quality time to really forge that connection,” Captain said. According to Captain, too much screen time during the holidays can affect a child’s sleep, behaviour, routine, and anxiety levels. If spending time in front of a screen, do it together as a family, but avoid screen time too close to bedtime as children can get overstimulated and their sleep can be affected. Another tip is to make sure you spend time outdoors having fun as a family. “I know going outdoors in the winter months in Canada isn’t something we all like to do, but the importance of sunlight, fresh air, and activity are important for everyone to feel their best,” Captain said. In choosing outdoor activities to do together, families can be purposeful and organized. “There’s time to run around in the snow, but planning a scavenger hunt, designing a snow fort, building a snowman, or trying to see how many animals you can spot in 10 minutes can maximize that outdoor experience,” she explained. If the weather precludes outdoor fun, indoor games are a good alternative. These could include creating an obstacle course, doing a puzzle, or trying out a fun and interactive activity like Cosmic Kids Yoga. “Pick what works for your family and do what you can,” Captain said, “and happy holidays can be within our reach.”Mueller water products VP Smith sells $653,306 in stock
Hezbollah fires about 250 rockets and other projectiles into Israel in heaviest barrage in weeks BEIRUT (AP) — Hezbollah has fired about 250 rockets and other projectiles into Israel, wounding seven people in one of the militant group’s heaviest barrages in months. Sunday's attacks in northern and central Israel came in response to deadly Israeli strikes in central Beirut on Saturday. Israel struck southern Beirut on Sunday. Meanwhile, negotiators press on with cease-fire efforts to halt the all-out war. And Lebanon's military says an Israeli strike on a Lebanese army center in the southwest killed one soldier and wounded 18 others. Israel's military has expressed regret and said its operations are directed solely against the militants. Israel cracks down on Palestinian citizens who speak out against the war in Gaza UMM AL-FAHM, Israel (AP) — In the year since the war in Gaza broke out, Israel's government has been cracking down on dissent among its Palestinian citizens. Authorities have charged Palestinians with “supporting terrorism” because of posts online or for demonstrating against the war. Activists and rights watchdogs say Palestinians have also lost jobs, been suspended from schools and faced police interrogations. Palestinians make up about 20% of Israel's population. Many feel forced to self-censor out of fear of being jailed and further marginalized in society. Others still find ways to dissent, but carefully. Israel's National Security Ministry counters that, “Freedom of speech is not the freedom to incite.” Somalia says 24 people have died after 2 boats capsized in the Indian Ocean MOGADISHU, Somalia (AP) — Somalia's government says 24 people died after two boats capsized off the Madagascar coast in the Indian Ocean. Somalia’s Foreign Minister Ahmed Moalim Fiqi said 46 people were rescued. Most of the passengers were young Somalis, and their intended destination remains unclear. Many young Somalis embark every year on dangerous journeys in search of better opportunities abroad. A delegation led by the Somali ambassador to Ethiopia is scheduled to travel to Madagascar on Monday to investigate the incident and coordinate efforts to help survivors. Forecasts warn of possible winter storms across US during Thanksgiving week WINDSOR, Calif. (AP) — Forecasters in the U.S. have warned of another round of winter weather that could complicate travel leading up to Thanksgiving. California is bracing for more snow and rain while still grappling with some flooding and small landslides from a previous storm. The National Weather Service has issued a winter storm warning for California's Sierra Nevada through Tuesday, with heavy snow expected at high elevations. Thousands remained without power in the Seattle area on Sunday after a “bomb cyclone” storm system hit the West Coast last week, killing two people. Republicans lash out at Democrats' claims that Trump intelligence pick Gabbard is 'compromised' FORT LAUDERDALE, Fla. (AP) — Republican lawmakers are pushing back against criticism from some Democrats that President-elect Donald Trump’s pick to lead U.S. intelligence services is “compromised” by her comments supportive of Russia and a meeting with an ally of that country. The accusation came from Sen. Tammy Duckworth. The Illinois Democrat says she has concerns about the pro-Russian views expressed by Tulsi Gabbard, who was tapped for the post of director of national intelligence. Duckworth’s comments on Sunday drew immediate backlash from Republicans. The rising price of paying the national debt is a risk for Trump's promises on growth and inflation WASHINGTON (AP) — Donald Trump has big plans for the economy. He also has big debt problem that'll be a hurdle to delivering on those plan. Trump has bold ambitions on tax cuts, tariffs and other programs. But high interest rates and the price of repaying the federal government’s existing debt could limit what he’s able to do. The federal debt stands at roughly $36 trillion, and the spike in inflation after the pandemic has pushed up the government’s borrowing costs such that debt service next year will easily exceed spending on national security. Moscow offers debt forgiveness to new recruits and AP sees wreckage of a new Russian missile KYIV, Ukraine (AP) — Russian President Vladimir Putin has signed a law granting debt forgiveness to new army recruits who enlist to fight in Ukraine. The measure, whose final version appeared on a government website Saturday, underscores Russia’s needs for military personnel in the nearly 3-year-old war, even as it fired last week a new intermediate-range ballistic missile. Russia has ramped up military recruitment by offering increasing financial incentives to those willing to fight in Ukraine. Ukraine’s Security Service on Sunday showed The Associated Press wreckage of the new intermediate-range ballistic missile that struck a factory in the central Ukrainian city of Dnipro on Thursday. After Trump's win, Black women are rethinking their role as America's reliable political organizers ATLANTA (AP) — Donald Trump's victory has dismayed many politically engaged Black women, and they're reassessing their enthusiasm for politics and organizing. Black women often carry much of the work of getting out the vote, and they had vigorously supported the historic candidacy of Kamala Harris. AP VoteCast, a survey of more than 120,000 voters, found that 6 in 10 Black women said the future of democracy was the single most important factor for their vote this year, a higher share than for other demographic groups. But now, some Black women are renewing calls to emphasize rest, focus on mental health and become more selective about what fight they lend their organizing power to. Pakistani police arrest thousands of Imran Khan supporters ahead of rally in the capital ISLAMABAD (AP) — A Pakistani security officer says police have arrested thousands of Imran Khan supporters ahead of a rally in Islamabad to demand the ex-premier’s release from prison. Khan has been behind bars for more than a year. But he remains popular and his party says the cases against him are politically motivated. Police Sunday arrested more than 4,000 Khan supporters in eastern Punjab province, a Khan stronghold. They include five parliamentarians. Pakistan has sealed off the capital with shipping containers. It also suspended mobile and internet services “in areas with security concerns.” 'Wicked' and 'Gladiator' make gravity-defying theater debuts NEW YORK (AP) — “Wicked” and “Gladiator II” have debuted in theaters with a combined $270 million in ticket sales. Their worldwide performance breathed fresh life into global box office results that have struggled lately. Together the films turned the moviegoing weekend into one of the busiest of the year. Jon M. Chu’s lavish big-budget musical “Wicked,” starring Ariana Grande and Cynthia Erivo, debuted with $114 million domestically and $164.2 million globally. Ridley Scott’s “Gladiator II” is a sequel to his 2000 best picture-winning original and launched with $55.5 million in ticket sales. “Moana 2” is being released Wednesday, so it looks like Hollywood might be looking at historic sales over the Thanksgiving holiday.
LSU outlasts UCF 109-102 in triple-OT affairAs the holiday season approaches, finding the perfect gift for your loved ones, friends, or even hosts can be a challenge. You want something that stands out, something that is both luxurious and thoughtful—a gift that is sure to impress. This holiday season, look no further than *Black Irish by Mariah Carey, a premium Irish cream liqueur that is more than just a bottle of spirits—it’s a statement of elegance, decadence, and celebration. Perfect for gifting, Black Irish by Mariah Carey makes a standout present for any celebration, from holiday host gifts to stocking stuffers . Mariah Carey’s Black Irish, a luxury Irish cream liqueur inspired by the global superstar’s heritage, is officially ushering in the holiday season with delightful indulgence. More than just another Irish cream, Black Irish by Mariah Carey is a statement of luxury. Born from Mariah’s rich heritage and crafted with aged Irish whiskey, this award-winning liqueur delivers smooth, rich decadence in every pour. Black Irish: A Unique Fusion of Heritage, Craftsmanship, and Luxury Decadent. Smooth. Elegant. And unique. All of these could serve as adjectives to depict the iconic songstress Mariah Carey. Nonetheless, they are unmistakable features of Mariah's new Black Irish Cream. Honoring Carey’s family heritage, Black Irish is crafted with aged Irish whiskey and a distinctive special blend to deliver a luxurious and indulgent flavor. Ideal for year-round enjoyment, this drink is suitable for both summer and winter specialty cocktails and complements every festivity. Sufficiently smooth to relish by itself and offered in original, Salted Caramel, or White Chocolate, Black Irish can also be creatively blended to craft an impressive holiday cocktail. Three Irresistible Flavors: A Perfect Gift for Every Taste Available in three irresistible flavors – Original, Salted Caramel, and White Chocolate – Black Irish has quickly become a favorite among connoisseurs. Recognized by Wine Enthusiast and The Tasting Panel, it is no surprise that Black Irish was named a Top 100 Spirit of 2023. Whether enjoyed on its own or mixed into a cocktail, this premium liqueur elevates any occasion. Perfect for gifting, Black Irish by Mariah Carey makes a standout present for any celebration, from holiday host gifts to stocking stuffers. The brand is also offering a limited-edition Holiday Gift Pack, featuring a full-sized bottle of the original flavor, a mini bottle of Salted Caramel, and a festive mug – the ideal way to spread some holiday cheer. Versatile and luxurious, Black Irish is perfect for sipping solo, enjoying over ice, or mixing into coffee, cocktails, desserts, and even baking. Its rich, indulgent flavor makes it the perfect addition to any holiday celebration. In addition, this season, Mariah Carey’s Black Irish will debut the Holiday Bar at Virgin Hotels, featuring a full takeover of select spaces transformed into a holiday-themed winter wonderland. Visitors will enter a whimsical holiday photo exhibit, featuring a personalized “All I Want for Christmas Is You” neon sign, or pose on a cheerful wreath to mimic the legendary album cover from Mariah Carey’s Magical Christmas Special. Additional holiday activities feature an interactive photo booth, a Black Irish Christmas tree, a “Letters to Mariah” area, a lyrics wall, and additional attractions. The Holiday Bars will be open until December 29th in New York, Nashville, Chicago, Dallas, and New Orleans. The Perfect Gift for Any Occasion The versatility of Black Irish makes it an exceptional gift for a variety of occasions. With its striking packaging and premium quality, this liqueur is as visually appealing as it is delicious. Whether you are attending a holiday gathering, looking for the perfect gift for a host, or shopping for that one person who seems to have everything, Black Irish is a considerate and elegant present that will leave a memorable impact. Here are some ideas for how Black Irish can fit into your holiday gift-giving: 1. For your host – Showing up with a bottle of Black Irish is sure to impress any holiday party host. Whether you’re attending a family gathering, a work party, or a close friend’s celebration, gifting Black Irish is a way to say “thank you” in style. With its decadent flavors and high-end appeal, this liqueur will be a hit at any gathering, whether served neat, on the rocks or mixed into a signature cocktail. 2. Stocking Stuffer for Adults – For the friends and family on your gift list, Black Irish makes a perfect stocking stuffer. Its sleek, sophisticated packaging and premium taste will elevate any holiday experience, whether it’s enjoyed as a relaxing after-dinner drink or used to create festive cocktails. The combination of flavors offers something for every taste, making it a fun and thoughtful surprise tucked into any stocking. 3. For your boss and colleagues – For business professionals looking to give unique gift to clients, colleagues, or employees, Black Irish is an excellent choice. Its luxury appeal makes it appropriate for a corporate setting, while its smooth taste is guaranteed to leave a lasting impression. A bottle of Black Irish shows thoughtfulness and attention to detail, making it an ideal gift for those who appreciate quality spirits. 4. Personal Treat – Of course, Black Irish also makes for a fabulous treat for yourself. After a long day of holiday shopping, there’s nothing quite like relaxing with a glass of Black Irish, whether you prefer the Original flavor, the salted caramel twist, or the indulgent white chocolate. With its smooth, rich taste, it’s the perfect way to unwind and celebrate the season of joy. Black Irish by Mariah Carey – The Perfect Holiday Gift This holiday season; elevate your gift-giving game with Black Irish by Mariah Carey. Whether you’re gifting friends, family, or colleagues, or looking for something special to bring to your holiday gatherings, Black Irish is a premium liqueur that delivers smooth decadence and a luxurious drinking experience. Its award-winning quality, premium ingredients, and irresistible flavors—Original, Salted Caramel, and White Chocolate—make it a standout gift for any occasion. With its rich heritage, sophisticated craftsmanship, and accolades from top industry experts, Black Irish is more than just a bottle of Irish cream. It’s a gift that embodies luxury, elegance, and celebration. Make this holiday season unforgettable by gifting Black Irish, and enjoy the indulgence that comes with every sip. *The San Francisco Examiner newsroom and editorial were not involved in the creation of this content.
Horse has bolted: John Longmire quits, resigns as Sydney Swans coach
Betty White Forever: New stamp will honor the much-beloved 'Golden Girls' actor
Corporate leader Kishan Nanayakkara featured in 2024 APAC Leading Lights listLONDON (AP) — Edinburgh Airport was shut down by an unspecified information technology issue Sunday afternoon, causing headaches for passengers at the start of the busy holiday travel season. All flights into and out of Scotland’s busiest airport were grounded at 4:15 p.m. local time, with some incoming flights diverted to Glasgow Airport about 50 miles away. Edinburgh airport said engineers were working to resolve the issue. “Passengers are asked to check the status of their flight with the airline they are flying with before traveling to the airport,’’ the airport said in a statement.
AP Trending SummaryBrief at 4:58 p.m. ESTThe 70th anniversary of CERN and the contribution of Greece, which has been actively involved since 1954
Sixty-eight-year-old Valerie Anderson still recalls the rush of humid Florida air that greeted her in 1992, a stark contrast to the biting winter of her hometown in Calgary. “I said, ‘Oh, this is beautiful because Calgary is so dry,’” she said. That first family vacation with her husband and two young kids ignited a love for the Sunshine State. Thirty years and three grandkids later, the Andersons proudly wear the “snowbird” badge, escaping Canada’s harsh winters to a rental property off the Florida coast. But they’re unsure how much longer they can afford to live out their dream. Like many snowbirds, they’ve been feeling a chill on their wallet as the Canadian dollar dropped about 4 per cent against the greenback in recent months, pushing up prices for everything from food to rent. “It’s definitely getting to be very expensive – food has gone up everywhere,” Ms. Anderson said. Compared with last year, she said it costs her and her husband about $25 more per person a meal. A recent glance at the menu of their favourite restaurant showed a single dish of sea bass priced at the equivalent of $80 Canadian. “We both just said, ‘I don’t think so!’” Norman Seawright, who also decamps to Florida in the winter, owns a condo there and said he’s paying “easily 20 to 25 per cent more” for everything. But while many snowbirds agree the weak loonie is weighing on them, most are reluctant to change their travel plans. Experts say those weathering the economic headwinds are offsetting losses with U.S. investments and getting strategic about taxes, exchange rates and insurance fees. “The dollar just sucks right now – clients are asking a lot of questions,” said Carson Hamill, a cross-border associate portfolio manager at Raymond James Canada. “People come to us that are renting permanently in the U.S., they’re going, ‘Oh, is it worth keeping this place?’” It might not be. Anyone who was renting a dozen years ago when the loonie was at par is now paying 40 per cent more, taking inflation and currency fluctuations into account. The unfavourable numbers can work in reverse for snowbirds who purchased property back then. If they haven’t rented out their property before, now might be the time to start – they’d be raking in that 40 per cent more in Canadian dollars, Mr. Hamill said. But homeowners have other worries. Their expenses are further weighed down by maintenance and insurance costs – the latter has surged by about 30 per cent between 2021 and 2023 in places like Florida, according to . Bankrate found that as of September 2024, the average insurance policy in Florida for US$300,000 in coverage was US$5,531 – 142 per cent higher than the national average. Kris Rossignoli, a cross-border tax and financial planner at Cardinal Point Capital Management ULC in New York, said his firm has seen many snowbirds selling larger properties and purchasing smaller homes as one way to cut costs. Evan Rachkovsky, director of research and communications at the Canadian Snowbird Association, said snowbirds who want to offset insurance costs often pick a destination in Central Florida – Lakeland and Winter Haven are two popular choices – farther from the coast and less susceptible to extreme weather. Whether or not they own property, snowbirds will see additional costs tied to the exchange rates offset through well-performing U.S. investments in savings and retirement accounts. John Woodfield, a senior wealth adviser and portfolio manager at SWAN Wealth Management, Raymond James, in Kelowna, B.C., said snowbirds should, and often do, hold American investments in their portfolios in U.S. currency to generate income stream in U.S. dollars, as a hedge against currency drops. “The dividends and your growth would all be in USD – as the Canadian dollar falls, the value of those stocks actually go up.” He said the recent currency moves have added roughly 6 per cent to Canadian client returns this year. Investors, however, need to keep in mind that dividends paid by U.S. companies into non-registered accounts held by non-residents of the U.S. face a withholding tax, though Mr. Woodfield said the benefits generally outweigh this. Another thing snowbirds often overlook is that if they own real estate in the U.S. and they die, their property will be subject to U.S. estate taxes, which are costlier with the current exchange rates. “As the lawyers down there say, ‘It’s great to own U.S. property, but it’s not great to die owning U.S. property,” said Mr. Woodfield, adding that Canadians can dodge this by setting up and purchasing property through a corporation in Canada. Beyond leveraging the U.S. dollar and reducing taxes, snowbirds should think about mitigating day-to-day costs by optimizing their travel credit cards or exploring prepaid cards. The majority of credit cards used for purchases outside the country will charge a adding up to about 2.5 per cent of the purchase cost in Canadian – that’s $125 in fees on $5,000. Marty Firestone, a travel insurance specialist, warns credit card-based insurance wields heavy restrictions for older travellers and won’t have as comprehensive coverage as they need. He said medical costs in the U.S. have increased about 25 per cent year-over-year with premiums climbing in tandem. He recommends no snowbird leave the country with less than $2,000,000 in coverage, and cut costs with a multi-trip annual policy. “They can travel up to a prescribed amount of days, come back home, for even a minute, and go back down again and they don’t pay for the amount they go back down again for,” he said, adding that this can save thousands. Still, some travellers might want to avoid the U.S. altogether. Lindsay Kipp, a travel expert at Flight Centre Canada, said Nicaragua and Panama are becoming popular alternative destinations for snowbirds at a fraction of the usual costs. Though Ms. Anderson has been reluctantly eyeing deals in Mexico and Portugal, she said she’d sooner cut discretionary spending and dining out than change travel plans any time soon.
– While speaking to the Before the Bell podcast , WWE broadcaster Cathy Kelley explained why fans shouldn’t expect to see her or fellow broadcaster Jackie Redmond stepping into the ring anytime soon. As Kelly explained, neither of the two women are wrestlers. Cathy Kelley was asked during the interview if she had any interest stepping into the ring with Jackie Redmond, in light of their recent social media feud . Kelley stated (via Fightful ), “I think she said it best, neither of us are wrestlers. I don’t have the muscles, as we’ve discussed several times, to be a wrestler. I think I’m going to leave it to the superstars to do that.”CONCORD, N.H. (AP) — School district officials who punished two parents for wearing pink wristbands marked “XX” during a soccer game featuring a transgender player defended their decision Friday at a hearing on whether they can take similar action while they are being sued. Kyle Fellers and Anthony Foote were banned from school grounds after the September game by officials who viewed the wristbands as intimidation or harassment of a transgender player. They later sued the Bow school district, and while the no-trespass orders have since expired, a judge is deciding whether the plaintiffs should be allowed to wear the wristbands and carry signs at upcoming school events, including basketball games, swim meets and a music concert, while the case proceeds. Both men testified Thursday that they didn’t intend to harass or otherwise target a transgender player on the opposing team, and their attorneys have argued they did nothing more than silently express their support for reserving girls’ sports for those born female. But school officials testified Friday that they had reason to believe the men wouldn’t stop there. Superintendent Marcy Kelley and Bow High School Athletic Director Michael Desiletes described receiving strongly-worded emails from Foote in which he called himself a “real leader” who was prepared to take action and seeing his social media posts urging others to attend the game. In the days leading up to the game, another parent told school officials she overheard others talk about showing up to the game wearing dresses and heckling the transgender player. “When we suspect there’s some sort of threat ... we don’t wait for it to happen,” Kelley said, comparing it to the way school officials wouldn’t wait until a fight broke out between two students to intervene if they got wind of it beforehand. Kelley also pushed back on the idea that the plaintiffs were simply expressing support for their daughters and their teammates in general, noting that they chose the one game involving a transgender player to begin wearing the wristbands. “This was organized and targeted,” she said. “If we were to allow harassment, we’re liable.” The transgender player in question, Parker Tirrell, and another student athlete are challenging the state law that bans transgender athletes in grades 5 to 12 from teams that align with their gender identity. A federal judge ruled in their case that they can play sports during the ongoing lawsuit that seeks to overturn the law. Gov. Chris Sununu, who signed the Fairness in Women’s Sports Act into law in July, has said it “ensures fairness and safety in women’s sports by maintaining integrity and competitive balance in athletic competitions.” About half of states have adopted similar measures. Copyright 2024 The Associated Press . All rights reserved. This material may not be published, broadcast, rewritten or redistributed.
Never been harder?! Greats split on modern cricket’s big batting problem — but here’s the truthA popular video game developer has decided to pull content featuring Irish MMA fighter Conor McGregor from sale, after a woman who said he raped her won a civil claim for damages against him. Nikita Hand, who accused the sportsman of raping her in a Dublin hotel in December 2018, won her claim against him for damages in a civil case at the High Court in the Irish capital. The jury delivered its verdict on Friday. The total amount of damages awarded to Hand by the jury was 248,603.60 euros (£206,714.31). Mr McGregor made no comment as he left court but later posted on social media that he intends to appeal. The Irish athlete has featured in multiple video games, including voice-acting a character bearing his likeness in additional downloadable content in the Hitman series. Mr McGregor’s character featured as a target for the player-controlled assassin in the game. In light of the recent court ruling regarding Conor McGregor, IO Interactive has made the decision to cease its collaboration with the athlete, effective immediately. We take this matter very seriously and cannot ignore its implications. Consequently, we will begin removing all... — HITMAN (@Hitman) IO Interactive, the Danish developer and publisher of Hitman, said in a statement: “In light of the recent court ruling regarding Conor McGregor, IO Interactive has made the decision to cease its collaboration with the athlete, effective immediately. “We take this matter very seriously and cannot ignore its implications. “Consequently, we will begin removing all content featuring Mr McGregor from our storefronts starting today.” Mr McGregor had faced an accusation that he “brutally raped and battered” Ms Hand at a hotel in south Dublin in December 2018. The Irish sports star previously told the court he had consensual sex with Ms Hand in a penthouse at the Beacon Hotel. Ms Hand was taken in an ambulance to the Rotunda Hospital the following day where she was assessed in the sexual assault treatment unit. A paramedic who examined Ms Hand the day after the assault had told the court she had not seen “someone so bruised” in a long time.
Building the Rogun Dam in Tajikistan to its maximum projected height and specifications would be an economic disaster for Central Asia’s poorest nation, and an environmental nightmare for the entire region, according to a newly published . The advent of new technologies for electricity generation means that Tajikistan’s already decades-old mega project would be outdated before it became fully operational. The report, compiled by the Kazakhstan-based environmental organization Rivers Without Boundaries, is being distributed shortly before a World Bank Board of Directors meeting, scheduled for December 17, is due to discuss financing options for the Rogun project, the costs of which have spiraled upward in recent years. Current projections put the price tag of completing the dam at its projected height of 335 meters at . The project was first conceived in the 1970s and revived by the Tajik government in 2016. Work has continued on the dam sporadically since then. Experts assembled by Rivers Without Boundaries compiled data on eight different scenarios for achieving the Rogun project’s intended goal of producing enough electricity to both meet the country’s domestic needs and generate revenue via the export of power. The results contained in the report suggest that a mix of renewable power generation, along with the completion of a significantly smaller Rogun Dam, would be the optimal solution. “Our preliminary calculations of alternative scenarios for project implementation show the combination of solar generation development with the completion of Rogun HPP with a smaller dam may make it possible to fully cover the winter energy deficit in Tajikistan by 2030-2031,” the report states. The “diversification of energy sources within the unified energy system of the country will also significantly reduce climate change risks for the energy sector and the economy.” The environmental and social impact assessments that officials are relying on for the Rogun project are outdated, relying on over decade-old data, according to the report. Since then, there have been major advances in wind and solar power generation technologies, and the risks posed by global warming in Central Asia have risen. “One of the recurrent planning mistakes made each time this project has been revived and reviewed is the lack of assessment of alternative solutions to the project's challenges,” the report states. When completed the 335-meter-tall dam would have an annual power-generating capacity of , roughly equivalent to the output of three nuclear plants. But by the time the facility can reach full generating capacity, the cost of its electricity would be uncompetitive compared to renewable sources, the report asserted. The unit cost of building Rogun is up to four times higher than that of a solar power plant (SPP). “The cost of Rogun's electricity will be more expensive than that produced by solar photovoltaics (SPP) and wind (WPP) power plants. If Tajikistan intends to become an electricity exporter to its neighbors, it needs to develop SPP and WPP,” the report adds. A new environmental impact study, along with a comprehensive regional water-usage framework, is needed, before any additional financing for Rogun is allocated, Rivers Without Boundaries argues. Environmentalists say the alteration of the water flows of the Vaksh and Amu Darya rivers caused by Rogun construction and operation to date already has degraded regional ecosystems, and “worsened conditions for irrigation in dry years.” Rogun would also be a potent source of greenhouse gasses at a time when Central Asia is straining to curtail emissions as part of an effort to slow global warming. The draft environmental impact assessment currently in use shows that Rogun will “still have a large carbon footprint,” the report states. “ The completion of the Rogun HPP with the highest dam [335-meter level] will not only fail to result in rapid decarbonization of Central Asian energy systems, but rather, on the contrary, will slow down this process.” By
- Previous: wow888 casino login
- Next: wow.888
