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WASHINGTON — The House passed a $895 billion measure Wednesday that authorizes a 1% increase in defense spending this fiscal year and would give a double-digit pay raise to about half of the enlisted service members in the military. The bill is traditionally strongly bipartisan, but some Democratic lawmakers opposed the inclusion of a ban on transgender medical treatments for children of military members if such treatment could result in sterilization. The bill passed by a vote of 281-140 and next moves to the Senate, where lawmakers sought a bigger boost in defense spending than the current measure allows. Lawmakers are touting the bill's 14.5% pay raise for junior enlisted service members and a 4.5% increase for others as key to improving the quality of life for those serving in the U.S. military. Those serving as junior enlisted personnel are in pay grades that generally track with their first enlistment term. Lawmakers said service member pay failed to remain competitive with the private sector, forcing many military families to rely on food banks and government assistance programs to put food on the table. The bill also provides significant new resources for child care and housing. "No service member should have to live in squalid conditions and no military family should have to rely on food stamps to feed their children, but that's exactly what many of our service members are experiencing, especially the junior enlisted," said Rep. Mike Rogers, R-Ala., chairman of the House Armed Services Committee. "This bill goes a long way to fixing that." The bill sets key Pentagon policy that lawmakers will attempt to fund through a follow-up appropriations bill. The overall spending tracks the numbers established in a 2023 agreement that then-Speaker Kevin McCarthy, R-Calif., reached with President Joe Biden to increase the nation's borrowing authority and avoid a federal default in exchange for spending restraints. Many senators wanted to increase defense spending about $25 billion above what was called for in that agreement, but those efforts failed. Sen. Roger Wicker, R-Miss., who is expected to serve as the next chairman of the Senate Armed Services Committee, said the overall spending level was a "tremendous loss for our national defense," though he agreed with many provisions in the bill. "We need to make a generational investment to deter the Axis of Aggressors. I will not cease work with my congressional colleagues, the Trump administration, and others until we achieve it," Wicker said. Sen. Roger Wicker, R-Miss., speaks with reporters Nov. 21 on Capitol Hill in Washington. House Republicans don't want to go above the McCarthy-Biden agreement for defense spending and are looking to go way below it for many nondefense programs. They are also focused on cultural issues. The bill prohibits funding for teaching critical race theory in the military and prohibits TRICARE health plans from covering gender dysphoria treatment for children under 18 if that treatment could result in sterilization. Rep. Adam Smith of Washington state, the ranking Democratic member of the House Armed Services Committee, said minors dealing with gender dysphoria is a "very real problem." He said the treatments available, including puberty blockers and hormone therapy, proved effective at helping young people dealing with suicidal thoughts, anxiety and depression. "These treatments changed their lives and in many cases saved their lives," Smith said. "And in this bill, we decided we're going to bar service members' children from having access to that." Smith said the number of minors in service member families receiving transgender medical care extends into the thousands. He could have supported a study asking medical experts to determine whether such treatments are too often used, but a ban on health insurance coverage went too far. He said Speaker Mike Johnson's office insisted on the ban and said the provision "taints an otherwise excellent piece of legislation." Rep. Chip Roy, R-Texas, called the ban a step in the right direction, saying, "I think these questions need to be pulled out of the debate of defense, so we can get back to the business of defending the United States of America without having to deal with social engineering debates." Smith said he agrees with Roy that lawmakers should be focused on the military and not on cultural conflicts, "and yet, here it is in this bill." House Minority Leader Hakeem Jeffries, D-N.Y., responds to reporters Dec. 6 during his weekly news conference at the Capitol in Washington. Rep. Hakeem Jeffries, the House Democratic leader, said his team did not tell Democrats how to vote on the bill. "There's a lot of positive things in the National Defense Authorization Act that were negotiated in a bipartisan way, and there are some troubling provisions in a few areas as well," Jeffries said. The defense policy bill also looks to strengthen deterrence against China. It calls for investing $15.6 billion to build military capabilities in the Indo-Pacific region. The Biden administration requested about $10 billion. On Israel, the bill, among other things, includes an expansion of U.S. joint military exercises with Israel and a prohibition on the Pentagon citing casualty data from Hamas. The defense policy bill is one of the final measures that lawmakers view as a must-pass before making way for a new Congress in January. Rising threats from debt collectors against members of the U.S. armed forces are undermining national security, according to data from the Consumer Financial Protection Bureau (CFPB), a federal watchdog that protects consumer rights. To manage the impact of financial stress on individual performance, the Defense Department dedicates precious resources to improving financial literacy, so service members know the dangers of notorious no-credit-check loans. “The financial well-being of service members and their families is one of the Department’s top priorities,” said Andrew Cohen, the director of financial readiness in the Office of the Deputy Assistant Secretary of Defense at the Pentagon. But debt collectors are gaining ground. Last quarter, , and attempts to collect on “debts not owed” surged 40%. Complaints by service members against debt collectors for deceptive practices ballooned from 1,360 in the fourth quarter of 2023 to 1,833 in the first quarter of 2024. “There’s a connection between the financial readiness and the readiness of a service member to perform their duty,” said Jim Rice, Assistant Director, Office of Servicemember Affairs at the Consumer Financial Protection Bureau. Laws exist to protect the mission readiness of U.S. troops from being compromised by threats and intimidation, but debt collectors appear to be violating them at an alarming pace. “If they’re threatening to call your commander or get your security clearance revoked, that’s illegal,” says Deborah Olvera, financial readiness manager at Wounded Warriors Project, and a military spouse who’s been harassed herself by a collection agency that tried to extort money from her for a debt she didn’t owe. But after she requested the name of the original creditor, she never heard from them again. —Andrew Cohen, Director of Financial Readiness at the Pentagon Under the Fair Debt Collection Practices Act, it’s illegal for debt collectors to threaten to contact your boss or have you arrested because it violates your financial privacy. The FDCPA also prohibits debt collectors from making false, deceptive, or misleading representations in connection with the collection of a debt, even for borrowers with scores. But according to the data, debt collectors are increasingly ignoring those rules. “Debt collection continues to be one of the top consumer complaint categories,” said a spokesperson at the Federal Trade Commission. The commission released a report earlier this year revealing that consumers were scammed $10 billion in 2023, a new benchmark for fraud losses. In his book Debt: The First 5,000 Years, David Graeber argues that debt often creates a relationship that can feel more oppressive than systems of hierarchy, like slavery or caste systems because it starts by presuming equality between the debtor and the creditor. When the debtor falls into arrears, that equality is then destroyed. This sense of betrayal and the subsequent imbalance of power leads to widespread resentment toward lenders. Photo Credit: Olena Yakobchuk / Shutterstock The debt collector reportedly harassing military service members most was Resurgent Capital Services, a subsidiary of collection giant Sherman Financial Group. The company tacks on accrued interest and junk fees and tries to collect on debts purchased for pennies on the dollar from cable companies, hospitals, and credit card companies, among others. Sherman Financial Group is run by billionaire Benjamin Navarro, who has a reported net worth of $1.5 billion, according to Forbes. Sherman Financial also owns subprime lender Credit One Bank and LVNV Funding, which outsource collections to Resurgent Capital. According to CFPB data, the second worst offender is CL Holdings, the parent company of debt-buyer Jefferson Capital Systems. The company has also been named in numerous for alleged violations of the FDCPA, such as failing to properly validate debts or update credit reports with accurate information. Under the leadership of CEO David Burton, Jefferson Capital Systems is a wholly-owned subsidiary of CompuCredit Corporation, which markets subprime credit cards under the names Aspire, Majestic, and others. The third most referenced debt collector is publicly traded Portfolio Recovery Associates [NASDAQ: PRAA], which was forced to pay $27 million in penalties for making false representations about debts, initiating lawsuits without proper documentation, and other violations. Portfolio Recovery Associates is run by CEO Vikram Atal. Fourth place for alleged worst offender goes to Encore Capital Group [NASDAQ ECPG], which was required to pay $42 million in consumer refunds and a $10 million penalty for violating the Fair Debt Collection Practices Act. Encore collects under its subsidiary Midland Credit Management Group. These debt collectors all operate under a veritable shell game of company and brand names, almost none of which are disclosed on their websites, sending consumers on a wild goose chase to try and figure out how they’re related to each other. But despite their attempts to hide their tracks behind a smoke screen of subsidiaries, a leopard can’t change its spots, and the CFPB complaint database makes it harder for them to try. Photo Credit: Bumble Dee / Shutterstock Although widely considered a consumer-friendly state, complaints spiked most in California, which saw a 188% increase in complaints filed from the fourth quarter of 2023 to the first quarter of 2024. California is home to 157,367 military personnel, making it the most populous state for active-duty service members. The second-largest increase in debt collection complaints was in Texas, which saw a 66% jump from the fourth quarter of 2023 to the first quarter of 2024. The U.S. Department of Defense reports 111,005 service members stationed in the Lone Star State, which is the third-most populous state for active-duty military. The rising trends do not correlate to the number of military personnel by state. Complaints against debt collectors in Virginia, the second most populous state with 126,145 active duty personnel, decreased by 29% in the same quarter-over-quarter period. And complaints filed quarter-over-quarter in North Carolina, the fifth most populous state with 91,077 military personnel, decreased by 3% in the same period. The third largest percentage increase in debt collection complaints was from service members stationed in Maryland, where alleged harassment reports jumped 112% from the fourth quarter of 2023 to the first quarter of 2024. Maryland ranks number 12 with just 28,059 active duty service members. Fourth place goes to Ohio – the 28th most populous active-duty state – where complaints doubled, followed by Arizona – the 15th most populous military state – where complaints were up 70% in the same quarter-over-quarter period. Photo Credit: - Yuri A / Shutterstock In 2007, Congress passed the to cap the cost of credit to a 36% annual percentage rate, inclusive of junk fees and late charges, for active duty military service members. That rate is still considerably higher than average credit card rates, which range from 8% for borrowers with excellent credit scores to as high as 36% for borrowers with bad credit. But lenders still get hauled into court for violating the MLA. Don Hankey, the billionaire subprime auto lender who funded Donald Trump’s , is among those violators. His company, Westlake Financial, which markets high-interest car loans for bad credit, has been sued twice by the Department of Justice for harassing military service members. In 2017, the DoJ alleged Hankey’s Westlake Financial illegally repossessed at least 70 vehicles owned by military service members. to settle the charges. In 2022, for allegedly cheating U.S. troops out of interest rates they were legally entitled to. Westlake Financial continues to receive complaints from military service members alleging abusive debt collection practices on its no-credit-check loans. A steady year-over-year increase in the number of complaints filed against Westlake Financial continued from 2020 to 2023. Consumer Financial Protection Bureau data shows a 13% increase in the number of complaints against the company from 2020 to 2021, a 28% increase from 2021 to 2022, and a torrential 119% surge from 2022 to 2023. The numbers suggest systemic complaint-handling processes and inadequate customer service resources. Photo Credit: Cynthia Shirk / Shutterstock On May 16, 2024, a deceptively named predatory lending industry front group dubbed the Community Financial Services Association of America (CFSA) lost a legal attempt to defund the Consumer Financial Protection Bureau. In an effort to deprive Americans of essential consumer protections, the lobby group argued that the Consumer Financial Protection Bureau’s funding structure was unconstitutional. But the Supreme Court denied its claim. In a 7-2 ruling, the Court held that the Consumer Financial Protection Bureau’s funding structure is indeed constitutional. That means the Consumer Financial Protection Bureau cannot be defunded, but it does not mean the agency cannot be defanged. The New York Times suggested that Hankey’s incentive to finance Trump’s $175 million bond could have been a reciprocity pledge to neuter the Consumer Financial Protection Bureau if Trump wins the upcoming U.S. presidential election. If Trump wins a second term, he could replace Consumer Financial Protection Bureau director Rohit Chopra, an American consumer advocate, with a predatory lending advocate. In 2020, the Trump Administration secured a Supreme Court ruling that made it easier for the president to fire the head of the Consumer Financial Protection Bureau. The ruling struck down previous restrictions on when a president can fire the bureau’s director. Like other federal agencies, the Consumer Financial Protection Bureau has also been confronted for overstepping its bounds, pushing too far, and acting unfairly against entities it regulates. Photo Credit: Lux Blue / Shutterstock Seasonality and rising interest rates do not explain the increase in debt collection complaints from service members. The surge in complaints is not tied to predictable seasonal fluctuations or changes in interest rates. The increase in debt collection complaints by service members may point to underlying systemic issues, such as aggressive and predatory debt collection practices that exploit the unique financial vulnerabilities of service members, who face frequent relocations and deployments. Debt Complaints by Service Members The 24% spike in debt collection complaints exhibits no correlation to fluctuations in interest rates. 30-Year Fixed Mortgage Rates Pandemic stimulus checks were also not a factor. COVID-19 relief benefit checks went through three major rounds during the pandemic. The final round of Economic Impact Payments went out in . To better understand the rising trend of debt collection complaints, calculated the increase in the total number of complaints and the percentage increase quarter-over-quarter. For example, New Jersey has the second largest percentage increase in complaints quarter-over-quarter, but the total number of complaints increased by just 16. The data for this study was sourced from the Consumer Financial Protection Bureau (CFPB) complaint database. The dataset specifically targeted complaints filed by U.S. military service members, identified using the tag “Servicemember” within Q4 2023 and Q1 2024. Readers can find the detailed research methodology underlying this news story in the accompanying section . For complete results, see on . Homelessness reached record levels in 2023, as rents and home prices continued to rise in most of the U.S. One group was particularly impacted: people who have served in the U.S. military. "This time last year, we knew the nation was facing a deadly public health crisis," Jeff Olivet, executive director of the U.S. Interagency Council on Homelessness, said in a statement about the 2023 numbers. He said the from the Department of Housing and Urban Development "confirms the depth of the crisis." At least 35,000 veterans were experiencing homelessness in 2023, according to HUD. While that's about half of what it was in 2009—when the organization began collecting data—things have plateaued in recent years despite active efforts to get that number to zero. Although they make up just 6.6% of the total homeless population, veterans are more likely to be at risk of homelessness than Americans overall. Of every 10,000 Americans, 20 were experiencing homelessness. Of veterans living in the United States, that number jumps to 22, HUD data shows. Complicated by bureaucracy, family dynamics, and prejudice, the path from serving in the military to homelessness is a long one. According to a by Yale School of Medicine researchers, homelessness typically occurs within four years of leaving the military, as veterans must contend with the harsh reality of finding a job in a world where employers struggle to see how skills on the battlefield transfer to a corporate environment. These days, veterans also deal with historically high rent and home prices, which causes many to rely on family generosity while figuring out a game plan. examined academic studies, analyzed government data, and spoke with members of the Biden administration, experts, and former members of the armed forces to see the struggles members of the military face when leaving the armed forces. The Department of Veterans Affairs offers transition assistance to the roughly 250,000 service members who leave each year. However, those programs can be burdensome and complex to navigate, especially for those who don't have a plan for post-military life. Only a small portion of when they leave, according to 2019 Pew Research. Many also choose to live with relatives until they get on their feet, which can be longer than anticipated. Some former service members are unsure what kind of career they'd like to pursue and may have to get further education or training, Carl Castro, director of the Military and Veteran Programs at the Suzanne Dworak-Peck School of Social Work at the University of Southern California, told Stacker. "It takes years for that kind of transition," Castro said. Many have trouble finding a job after leaving the service, even if they are qualified. Some employers carry misconceptions about those who have served. A 2020 analysis from the journal found that some veterans face hiring discrimination due to negative stereotypes that lead hiring managers to write them off as a poor culture fit. Underemployment, or working low-wage jobs below their skill level, is also an issue. While the was 3% in March 2024, a study released by Penn State at the end of 2023 found three years after leaving the service, 61% of veterans said they were . This phenomenon can have long-term economic effects, and eventually, that frustration can boil over, strain relationships, and potentially lead to housing instability. Working, especially a low-wage job, is not protection against homelessness. A from the University of Chicago found half of people living in homeless shelters and 2 in 5 unsheltered people were employed, full or part-time. High rents make it difficult to save up, even when applying for a VA loan—a mortgage backed by the Department of Veterans Affairs that typically has more favorable terms. While the VA does not require a downpayment, some lenders, who ultimately provide the loan, do. They're not entirely risk-free either, and veterans can still lose their homes if they are unable to keep up with their mortgages. In November 2023, the VA put a when an NPR investigation found thousands of veterans were in danger of losing their homes after a COVID forbearance program ended. Biden officials pointed to high rents and the end of COVID-era housing restrictions like eviction moratoriums to explain the spike in Americans experiencing homelessness. In the last year, homelessness rose 12%—to more than 650,000 people—the highest level since data began being collected in 2007. Overall, more than half of people experiencing homelessness in 2023 live in states with high living costs. Most were in California, followed by New York and Florida. Western states, including Montana and Utah, experienced massive population growth during the pandemic, becoming who drove home prices and rents even further. For veterans, housing costs certainly play a role, but those who leave the military also face systemic barriers. "It's worrying there are people that continue to fall through the cracks," said Jeanette Yih Harvie, a research associate at Syracuse University's D'Aniello Institute for Veterans and Military Families. Just under a quarter of adults experiencing homelessness , according to 2022 HUD survey data. They are also but are unable to maintain preventative care, which only exacerbates these problems. Veterans facing homelessness are , either before or after joining the military, according to Yale researchers who analyzed the 2019-2020 National Health and Resilience in Veterans Study. Childhood trauma was among the most significant commonalities among vets who become homeless. Substance use disorder is also widespread and can indicate an . Racial and ethnic disparities are at play, too. A 2023 study in the showed that Hispanic and Black veterans were more likely to screen positive for PTSD, and Hispanic veterans were more likely to report having suicidal ideation. Overall, access to mental health care has improved in the last decade or so. In December 2023, the VA announced it would open nine additional counseling centers. However, the stigma of getting help remains, especially after years of being and pull oneself up by their bootstraps. That help, in the form of public policy, is slowly working to catch up to the need. In 2023, the Biden administration invested millions into research programs and studies on suicide prevention by the VA office in addition to a proposed $16 billion to improve quality and lower-cost mental health care services for veterans. And, in February of this year, HUD and the VA announced they would give up to to public housing agencies for veterans experiencing homelessness. The program would also offer case management and other services. Still, with a culture that pushes people to keep going, it can be challenging for servicemembers to take advantage of these opportunities, Harvie said. "When you've been doing that for the last 15 or 20 years, it's difficult to stop and say, 'I'm the person that needs help.'" Stay up-to-date on the latest in local and national government and political topics with our newsletter.

Yes, you read this right: this amazing Black Friday deal gives you a huge $1,000 off the Nikon Z7 II at Amazon. At under $2,000, this is the lowest price we have seen this top-of-the-line camera this Black Friday weekend. You can get the Nikon Z7 II on sale right now at Amazon for $1,996.95 . While its successor the Nikon Z8 tops our best cameras for wildlife and best astrophotography cameras guides, the Nikon Z7 II features the same high resolution 45.7MP sensor. Its autofocus performance is also admirable and it can shoot video up to 2160p. With a saving of $1000, we think this is too good to be missed. Save $1,000 on the Nikon Z7 II, one of Nikon's latest full-frame mirrorless cameras. With a huge 45.7MP sensor and great autofocus performance, it is a great camera to capture detailed nature and wildlife shots. We are scouring the internet for the best Black Friday deals on Science kit where we're highlighting all the deepest discounts on air purifiers , telescopes , cameras and binoculars . The Nikon Z7 II is a powerhouse of a camera, excelling in low-light environments thanks to its huge 45.7MP sensor and powerful autofocus. It is a versatile camera that can handle almost anything you can throw at it, from astrophotography to wildlife and landscape shooting. Compared to its successor, the Nikon Z8 , the Z7 II comes with a lighter price tag, especially now it is on sale with $1,000 off. For a camera with the same sensor and ISO range as our top choice for the best camera for wildlife photography overall, we think it is well worth the price. If the Nikon Z7 II is not the right model for you, check out our Black Friday camera deals page to find an option best suited to your needs and budget. Key features: 45.7MP sensor, 64-25,600 ISO range, 4K video recording, compatible with Z-mount lenses Sign up for the Live Science daily newsletter now Get the world’s most fascinating discoveries delivered straight to your inbox. Product launched: October 2020. Price history: This is the lowest price we have seen the Nikon Z7 II this Black Friday weekend although it is worth noting it is not the first time it has been reduced this much but it always comes back to its full price in between sales. Currently, it is at its lowest price on Amazon. Price comparison: Amazon: $1,996.95 | Walmart: $2,339.95 | Best Buy : $1,999.99 Reviews consensus: While we have not reviewed this camera ourselves, our colleagues at T3 have reviewed the Nikon Z7 II and gave it five out of five stars. Reviews are unified in singing its praises, especially in low-light conditions. Users call out the autofocus accuracy and the camera's compact design, making it a great camera for shooting astro. TechRadar: ★★★★ 1⁄2 | Space: ★★★★1⁄2 | Digital Camera World: ★★★★1⁄2 ✅ Buy it if: You want a top-of-the-line mirrorless camera for precision shots, capable of handling astrophotography or wildlife shots. ❌ Don't buy it if: You are on a budget or a beginner photographer. If that is the case, we recommend reading our guide to the best cameras for wildlife and best astrophotography cameras to find an option better suited to your needs and budget. Check out our other guides to the best air purifiers , air purifiers for allergies , the best telescopes , microscopes for students , astrophotography cameras , binoculars , rowing machines , electric toothbrushes and more.Jon Jones, LeBron James targets of Colby Covington's latest scorched-earth, cringey rantMiguel Tomley scores 28 to lead Weber State over Pepperdine 68-53 at Arizona Tip-Off

Tesla is most undervalued AI firm in the market, says Wedbush analystSomehow, the end of the year has returned, so we thought that now was the perfect time to take a look at the best movies of 2024. It’s been quite a year for cinema; there have been some awesome action movies , dynamic dramas, and sensational sequels. Horror and animation have both dominated the box office , while superhero movies (or one at least) have managed to cling on just about. But what were the best movies of the year? Well to work this out, we used popcorn to bribe each member of the TV and movies team into nominating ten movies from 2024 (based on US releases). After that, the senior team got to work refining the list, and after several intense hours of debate (which mostly involved yelling at each other), they emerged with a list of what they consider to be the most fantastic flicks of the year. Now, not all of our favorites are going to get their flowers (sorry , Trap fans) but if you didn’t get a ticket for these films when they were in theaters, you messed up. Note: We’re well aware that it’s November, and there are lots of movies still to be released – Mufasa, Sonic 3, and Kraven immediately spring to mind – so keep this list bookmarked, as we’ll be updating it throughout what’s left of 2024. 25. Dune: Part Two Director: Denis Villeneuve Cast: Timothée Chalamet, Zendaya, Stellan Skarsgård, Rebecca Ferguson, Austin Butler, Florence Pugh, Dave Bautista, Javier Bardem What it’s about: Following the Harkonnen attack on Arrakis, Paul must learn the ways of the Fremen in the hopes of uniting the tribes if he ever wants to take back his birthright. Related: Why we like it: If we were ranking the movies of 2024 by ambition, then Dune: Part Two would top the list. Everything about Villeneuve’s second trip to Arrakis is bigger and bolder than the first – from cinematographer Greig Fraser’s sweeping visuals to the grandiose action scenes and Hans Zimmer’s bombastic booming score. Yet arguably, what makes this film truly great is how Villeneuve confidently takes author Frank Herbert’s text and the labyrinthian lore of Dune and makes it into something everyone and anyone can understand. My favorite part, though? Austin Butler’s creepy Stellan Skarsgård impression. Read our Dune 2 review here. Words by Tom Percival 24. Haikyuu!! The Dumpster Battle Director: Susumu Mitsunaka Cast: Ayumu Murase, Kaito Ishikawa, Yuki Kaji (Japanese) / Bryson Baugus, Scott Gibbs, Clint Bickham (English) What it’s about: The Wildcats and the Crows finally face off in a match that epitomizes youthful competition and the beauty of our high school years. Why we like it: If there’s one game Haikyuu!! fans were waiting for, it’s this one, and the big screen gives everyone a chance to shine. The thrilling plays and dramatic strategizing are heightened through memories of how each player got here – a reminder that everyone has a story to tell on the court and off. Words by Anthony McGlynn Read our Haikyuu!! The Dumpster Battle review here. 23. Rebel Ridge Director: Jeremy Saulnier Cast: Aaron Pierre, Don Johnson, AnnaSophia Robb, David Denman, James Cromwell What it’s about: Terry Richmond, an ex-Marine, cycles to Shelby Springs to bail his cousin out of jail. When he’s rammed off the road by two cops, they detain his money and refuse to give it back, as ordered by their corrupt chief. He’s left with one option: “I gotta haunt these motherf**kers myself.” Why we like it: Rebel Ridge is one of the best movies Netflix has ever released: a smart, teeth-gnawingly tense, and cathartic actioner that feels like the 21st century’s first proper answer to First Blood, with an intelligent, no-less badass lead and Johnson at his smarmiest and best. Did I put too much sauce on that? “Nah.” Words by Cameron Frew 22. The Apprentice Director: Ali Abbasi Cast: Sebastian Stan, Jeremy Strong, Maria Bakalova What it’s about: The Apprentice is an origin story about Donald Trump’s ascension up New York’s property ladder, as well as his entry into high society, all with the help of notorious lawyer Roy Cohn. Why we like it: The Apprentice announces itself as a “classic American horror story” but the movie also manages to be a disturbing cautionary tale about the dark side of the American Dream. Sebastian Stan imbues Donald Trump with just enough charm and charisma to explain his success. However, the film also posits that Roy Cohn ultimately made the man we know today, drawing a line from his words, advice, and life lessons directly to the White House. Read our The Apprentice review here. Words by Chris Tilly 21. Kinds of Kindness Director: Yorgos Lanthimos Cast: Emma Stone, Jesse Plemons, Margaret Qualley, Willem Dafoe, Hunter Schafer What it’s about: A trilogy of stories woven into one overarching thread, a man tries to take his own life, a cop’s wife returns home a different person, and a woman looks for someone supernatural. Why we like it: If you’re a fan of Lanthimos’ earlier work like Dogtooth and The Lobster, you’re going to love Kinds of Kindness. Much more grounded in reality than The Favourite and Poor Things, this triptych of tales still isn’t for the faint of heart. I actually can’t pick a favorite of the three... Stone and Plemons have clearly studied at the Tilda Swinton school of chameleonic acting. Read our Kinds of Kindness review here. Words by Jasmine Valentine 20. Maria Director: Pablo Larraín Cast: Angelina Jolie, Haluk Bilginer, Alba Rohrwacher, Kodi Smit-McPhee What it’s about: Following the final days of opera singer Maria Callas before her death, a fictional camera crew recounts her life through a tour of 1970s Paris. Why we like it: I saw this a month before writing this piece, and I still feel like I’m crying. Jolie looks to be Mikey Madison’s stiffest competition in the race for Best Actress, thanks to her emotionally eviscerating portrayal of Maria Callas. The third in his 20th-century women trilogy, Larraín is an expert at choosing a moment in time and painfully unpicking it, and the results are arguably his best of the bunch. Words by Jasmine Valentine 19. Gladiator 2 Director: Ridley Scott Cast: Paul Mescal, Denzel Washington, Pedro Pascal What it’s about: The son of Maximus returns to the arena a decade or so after his father’s death, ready to avenge his fallen wife and take down the Roman army, all while trying to survive under the watchful eye of gladiator showman Macrinus. Why we like it: Gladiator 2 was one of my personal most anticipated movies of the year, and it didn’t disappoint. It brought Ridley back onto the good side of many waning fans and brought in some of Hollywood’s hottest current talent to make the historical drama dramatic again. No, it’s not perfect, but with the bloody violence and scheming characters, there’s an element of opera to Gladiator 2 that can’t be ignored. And that’s all without mentioning Denzel Washington, who elevates the movie to dastardly heights. Come for Paul Mescal in a tunic; stay for flesh-hungry monkeys. Read our Gladiator 2 review here. Words by Jessica Cullen 18. Blink Twice Director: Zoë Kravitz Cast: Naomi Ackie, Channing Tatum, Alia Shawkat, Christian Slater What it’s about: Tech billionaire Slater King invites cocktail waitress Frida to join a group of friends on his private island. But what starts out as a dream vacation soon turns into a nightmare when Frida notices strange occurrences, descending into a sinister struggle for survival. Why we like it: Kravitz strikes the perfect balance of social commentary and entertainment in her directorial debut. Ultimately, Blink Twice is about abuses of power and the female experience, but it’s never preachy, instead weaving these themes into a truly suspenseful, entertaining, and trippy ride. All of this culminates in an ending you won’t see coming but will find cathartic. If nothing else, it’s the most accurate portrayal of the phenomenon all smokers will know too well: keeping track of your lighter. Read our Blink Twice review here. Words by Daisy Phillipson 17. Hit Man Director: Richard Linklater Cast: Glen Powell, Adria Arjona, Austin Amelio, Retta, Sanjay Rao What it’s about: Based on the true story of Gary Johnson, Hit Man follows a shy college professor who goes undercover with the New Orleans police as a fake hitman. Along the way, though, he falls in love with a prospective client, and things get very complicated very quickly. Why we like it: Despite its relatively novel premise, Hit Man feels like a triumphant throwback to the character studies of the 90s. It’s a film that embraces the weird and wonderful without needing to resort to over-the-top action or silly spectacle. Instead, it relies on the natural charm of its leading man, Glen Powell – who’s clearly having a lot of fun stretching his acting muscles (instead of just his abs) – to tell a brilliantly dark story that’s got a surprising amount of depth for a Netflix comedy. Read our Hit Man review here. Words by Tom Percival 16. Conclave Director: Edward Berger Cast: Ralph Fiennes, Stanley Tucci, John Lithgow, Isabella Rossellini, Carlos Diehz What it’s about: When the Pope dies, Cardinal Lawrence organizes a papal conclave to elect a new pontiff. As days pass and votes mount, candidates rise and fall under the weight of their scandals and hunger for power – but they must choose a new Holy Father, whatever it takes. Why we like it: These wannabe popes are devious contradictions; as James 1:26 says, those who do not keep a tight rein on their tongues deceive themselves and their religion. But that’s part of Conclave’s unique, brilliant alchemy: its drama is divine, as tasty as a whisper, and rich as any parable. Certainty may be a sin, but this is undoubtedly a banger. Words by Cameron Frew 15. Strange Darling Director: JT Mollner Cast: Kyle Gallner, Willa Fitzgerald, Barbara Hershey What it’s about: Following a twisted one-night stand, a sick serial killer hunts his prey in a terrifying game of cat-and-mouse. Why we like it: Strange Darling does for serial murder movies what Pulp Fiction did for the crime genre, messing with chronology and hopping back and forth in time to add twists, turns, and depth to what’s ultimately a quite simple story. Writer-director JT Mollner’s ingenious approach to the material is matched by a pair of star-making turns from his leads, with Kyle Gallner and Willa Fitzgerald delivering two of 2024’s very best performances. Read our Strange Darling review here. Words by Chris Tilly 14. I Saw the TV Glow Director: Jane Schoenbrun Cast: Justice Smith, Brigette Lundy-Paine What it’s about: In 1996, Owen is entranced by The Pink Oqaque, a hazy, late-night YA series. He befriends Maddy, a troubled teen and fellow fan, but as years pass by the line between reality and fiction starts to blur as much as their sense of self. Why we like it: One of the decade’s rare, true masterpieces; a movie that reckons with the flesh-and-heart-festering fears of a generation in horrifying, singular fashion. It’s also beautiful; a haunting balm for those who’ve sought refuge in a story, a fable for those who’ve lost touch with (or over-depended on) the comfort of that obsession. As the credits rolled, I couldn’t speak, nor could I move – as the tears dried into my face, I simply saw the TV’s glow fade to black. Words by Cameron Frew 13. The First Omen Director: Arkasha Stevenson Cast: Nell Tiger Free, Tawfeek Barhom, Sônia Braga What it’s about: An American nun travels to an orphanage in Rome where it’s increasingly clear the Devil is at work. Why we like it: The Omen might be usurped for the best installment of its own franchise. The mystery underpinning Stevenson’s prequel is engaging, becoming ever more so as the clues arrive. Visceral, erogenous imagery pops out like intrusive thoughts, dragging us into the seedy underbelly. Something wicked isn’t coming; it’s here. Read our The First Omen review here. Words by Anthony McGlynn 12. Furiosa Director: George Miller Cast: Anya Taylor-Joy, Chris Hemsworth, Tom Burke What it’s about: Years before the events of Mad Max: Fury Road, a young Furiosa attempts to avenge her mother’s murder at the hands of the sadistic Dementus. Why we like it: Most people went into Furiosa hoping for two things. One: a killer villain performance from Chris Hemsworth and an action-packed ride through the wasteland. Furiosa delivered both in spades. Hemsworth is a scenery-chewing antagonist for the ages, screaming and kicking and smiling his way into our memories. Furiosa’s adrenaline-fuelled race through the desert is nothing short of spectacular, following perfectly from Mad Max’s blood soaked and sandy chaos. Read our Furiosa review here. Words by Jessica Cullen 11. Twisters Director: Lee Isaac Chung Cast: Daisy Edgar-Jones, Glen Powell, Anthony Ramos, Brandon Perea, Maura Tierney, Sasha Lane What it’s about: Retired storm chaser Kate Carter is called back into action by her old friend, who’s working on groundbreaking technology that will allow meteorologists to predict dangerous tornadoes. However, when Kate meets charismatic social media star Tyler Owens, she realizes she might not be working for the good guys. Why we like it: Twisters or Twister$, as it’s come to be known in at least one group chat I’m in, blew audiences away when it roared into theaters this summer. While many expected a cheap cash-in (myself included. Sorry, I’m a cynic at heart), the naysayers were silenced by Isaac Chung’s category-5 movie, which balanced gale force spectacle with memorable characters and a tender romance. When you combine that with Edgar-Jones and Powell’s incredible chemistry, you’ve got the perfect conditions for the storm movie of the century. If we had one complaint, it’s that Spielberg denied us that kiss! I guess it proves everyone makes mistakes. Read our Twisters review here. Words by Tom Percival 10. The Wild Robot Director: Chris Sanders Cast: Lupita Nyong’o, Pedro Pascal, Kit Connor, Bill Nighy, Catherine O’Hara, Matt Berry What it’s about: ROZZUM Unit 7134 (“Roz” for short), a domestic service robot, crash-lands on an island inhabited exclusively by animals. She struggles to find a purpose until she accidentally crushes a goose nest, leaving a single egg. Together with a lone fox, she raises the young gosling until it’s time for the migration. Why we like it: The Wild Robot made me cry not once, not twice, but thrice – it may even be DreamWorks’ best film since Shrek 2. It has the studio’s magic sauce: a jaw-dropping voice ensemble (you won’t recognize them until the credits, and then you’ll shout, ‘That was them ?’), dazzling visuals, and an irresistibly emotional story that speaks two universal, all-ages languages: love and kindness. “Sometimes to survive, we must become more than we are programmed to be.” Words by Cameron Frew 9. Woman of the Hour Director: Anna Kendrick Cast: Anna Kendrick, Daniel Zovatto, Tony Hale What it’s about: Based on the real-life TV appearance of Rodney Alcala (aka the Dating Game Killer), the film follows Cheryl Bradshaw, a young woman who finds herself on a dating show and comes face to face with an undiscovered serial killer. Why we like it: As is the case with most years, true crime was a go-to throughout 2024, with a countless supply of documentaries and horror movies surrounding killers. But Woman of the Hour was one of the most earnest and careful explorations of a real-life case yet, and Anna Kendrick’s impressive directorial debut proved she really has something to say. The case of Rodney Alcala is a lengthy and truly awful example of human nature, but Kendrick perfectly examined his character through one main event: his real-life appearance on a dating show. It’s an intense journey from start to finish but truly succeeded in giving us the scariest scene of 2024 . Read our Woman of the Hour review here. Words by Jessica Cullen 8. Deadpool & Wolverine Director: Shawn Levy Cast: Ryan Reynolds, Hugh Jackman, Emma Corrin, Matthew Macfadyen. What it’s about: When Deadpool learns that the TVA plans on pruning his dying timeline, the Merc’ With A Mouth goes on the hunt for the only person in the multiverse who can help him save the day: Wolverine. Why we like it: The MCU’s been in a rough spot for a while now, and Kevin Feige turned to Marvel Jesus, aka Deadpool, to save the day. Did Deadpool deliver? Did he ever! Wild, irreverent, and profane, the Merc’ With A Mouth’s first foray into the wider Marvel Universe was a resounding success and every bit as filthy and violent as its predecessors. Even better, the film performed a miracle and gave us what we’d been waiting for for over two decades: Hugh Jackman’s derriere in yellow spandex. He might not convert non-believers to the church of Marvel, but Deadpool has risen, and he’s here to save the MCU from its sins. Read our Deadpool & Wolverine review here. Words by Tom Percival 7. Anora Director: Sean Baker Cast: Mikey Madison, Mark Eidelstein, Yuriy Borisov What it’s about: A sex worker from Brooklyn meets and marries the son of a Russian oligarch, but trouble brews when his family finds out and makes it their mission to get the union annulled. Why we like it: Through his movies about sex workers and figures on the sidelines of society, it feels like writer-director Sean Baker has been working towards Anora throughout his career. The result is his most complete work to date; a beguiling character study bursting out of a wild account of young love, and a film that’s funny, tense, sad, then ultimately profound via one of 2024’s most thought-provoking endings. Words by Chris Tilly 6. Love Lies Bleeding Director: Rose Glass Cast: Kristen Stewart, Katy O’Brien, Ed Harris, Dave Franco, Jena Malone What it’s about: Gym manager Lou falls head over heels for bodybuilder Jackie when she mysteriously arrives in town. However, Lou’s criminal family grabs hold, leading to more violence than love. Why we like it: Be still my lesbian heart. Remember how Wachowski’s Bound managed to infuse life-threatening crime with a happy sapphic ending? Glass manages more of the same here, only upping the visual ante. It’s full of humor, gym sweats, and psychedelic hallucinations – and she doesn’t hold back on the gore either. Personally, it’s a K Stew performance I’ll never forget. Read our Love Lies Bleeding review here. Words by Jasmine Valentine 5. Wicked Director : Jon M. Chu Cast: Cynthia Erivo, Ariana Grande, Jonathan Bailey, Marissa Bode, Michelle Yeoh, and Jeff Goldblum What it’s about: A prequel (of sorts) to the Wizard of Oz, Wicked tells the story of Elphaba and reveals the real reason she became the Wicked Witch of the West. Why we like it: Adapting what’s widely considered the greatest stage musical of all time was always going to be a tall order, but Jon M. Chu proved he had the heart, brains, and courage to get the job done. Technically, it’s wonderful: the music is gorgeous, the choreography intricate, and the production design immaculate (although it doesn’t always look it). Yet what really makes Wicked sing (pun intended) is Cynthia Erivo and Ariana Grande’s magical double act. The pair just have such enchanting chemistry that it’s hard not to fall under their spell and that captivating charm bleeds into the rest of the film. If you’ve been putting off seeing it, don’t because I promise you you’ll be blown away like Dorothy’s house. Read our Wicked review here Words by Tom Percival 4. The Substance Director: Coralie Fargeat Cast: Demi Moore, Margaret Qualley, Dennis Quaid What it’s about: Elisabeth Sparkle is 50 years old – in showbiz, she’s past her sell-by date. However, there may be a solution: the substance, a mysterious drug that births a younger, better version of herself who immediately finds all of the fame she lost. She (well, they) just has to remember one thing: “You are one.” Why we like it: Fargeat never respects the balance, and that’s the pumped-up, pulpy beauty of The Substance; diabolically funny, disgusting, and deeply tragic, with a career-best performance from Moore, a star-certifying turn from Qualley, and Quaid at his most exquisitely despicable. Here, self-loathing and narcissism are two sides of the same coin; it’s not about the (body-)horror of aging, but rather the fragility of one’s worth, in our eyes and theirs. Read our Substance review here. Words by Cameron Frew 3. Longlegs Director: Osgood Perkins Cast: Maika Monroe, Nicolas Cage, Alicia Witt What it’s about: FBI agent Lee Harker uses her uncanny instincts to investigate an ongoing series of strange killings by the serial killer known as Longlegs. But as she digs deeper, she finds herself more connected to the case and killer than she could have ever imagined. Why we like it: Accusations of being “overhyped” and “not scary enough” are too harsh for a movie like Longlegs. Simply put, it’s terrifying, atmospheric, and original, and that should be enough to earn its place on any best-of-the-year list. Maika Monroe is magnetic as a put-upon FBI agent, and although Cage’s appearance as Longlegs might have been overused, he completely transformed. The craft behind the movie only served to make it more tense, more disturbing, and it truly worked. It raised a lot of questions it didn’t necessarily answer, but that just makes Longlegs one of the most enigmatic and unforgettable horror movies of the year, and earned Oz Perkins a place on everyone’s radar (if he wasn’t there already). Read our Longlegs review here. Words by Jessica Cullen 2. Challengers Director: Luca Guadagnino Cast: Zendaya, Josh O’Connor, Mike Faist What it’s about: A tennis star whose career was cut short by injury tries to end her husband’s losing streak by seeking help from her ex, who just happens to be his former best friend. Why we like it: Challengers is one of the best sports movies ever made, thanks to some pulsating tennis that puts the audience slap-bang in the middle of the matches. That athletic action is underpinned by high drama, with games on the court fuelled by a love triangle off it, between rising stars Zendaya, John O’Conner, and Mike Faist. All three of whom the camera adores. The result is the sexiest film of the year, and one of director Luca Guadagnino’s very best. Read our Challengers review here. Words by Chris Tilly 1. Terrifier 3 Director: Damien Leone Cast: David Howard Thornton, Lauren LaVera, Elliott Fullam, Samantha Scaffidi What it’s about: After surviving Art the Clown’s Halloween massacre, Sienna and her brother Jonathan attempt to recover, only to be thrust back into a nightmare when Art makes his return. To make matters worse, it’s Christmas... and Art’s got his accomplice, Vicky. Why we like it: Even if you’re not a horror fan (sorry for your loss), there’s no denying the artistry that goes into creating eye-wincingly gruesome, extravagant kills in the Terrifier movies. With a bigger budget to play with, Leone’s threequel takes things up a notch, resulting in some of the grisliest scenes ever to hit the big screen. But what elevates Terrifier 3 beyond the guts and gore (and glass shards) is the heart of this chaotic circus. Art is a villain of the ages, at once a demonic killer and loveable clown; a nightmare with a wink. Thornton’s performance reaches fever pitch in this installment, pushing the boundaries of what’s possible with zero dialogue. It’s for all these reasons and more that Terrifier 3 is not only the best horror of 2024 but the best movie overall (and arguably even the best Christian flick if you squint hard enough). Read our Terrifier 3 review here. Words by Daisy Phillipson

At its November 18 meeting, Sarnia City Council approved amendments to a zoning by-law to permit the development of a three-storey affordable housing project on Kathleen Avenue, just west of Indian Road. The current bylaw requires 75 parking spaces for the project, which includes 50 one-bedroom units and a 120-square-meter office space. However, only 31 parking spaces are proposed. City staff reviewed the motion in the context of the Provincial Planning Statement, Lambton County, and City Official Plans and deemed it appropriate. The Provincial Planning Statement supports the achievement of complete communities and requires municipalities to permit and facilitate a range of housing options that address the social, health, economic, and well-being requirements of current and future residents. Councillor Terry Burell inquired whether a study had been conducted on parking demand in similar units. Jordan Fohkens, a planning consultant for the project, stated that the County of Lambton already owns and manages several apartment properties with similar parking rates to those being proposed, which he believes are justified. He highlighted that the development is well-served by transit and is close to commercial amenities. Councillor Anne Marie Gillis raised concerns about the development’s proximity to green spaces but was reassured that several options are nearby. The resolution for the zoning bylaw amendment passed unanimously. “We’re very pleased with Council’s decision,” said Melisa Johnson, Manager of Housing Services for the County of Lambton. Construction of the rent-geared-to-income (RGI) affordable housing project on Kathleen Avenue is slated for spring 2025, with occupancy expected by the fall of 2026. Of the 50 units, 14 are supported by the March of Dimes for people with permanent physical disabilities. The other 36 units will be allocated to those on the County’s centralized waiting list, which currently has 943 individuals on it. “This will not fill needs for everyone,” says Johnson, “but it will allow us to move 36 units off that waitlist and into permanent affordable housing.”

Kuwait City : Kuwait has deported more than 100 expatriates who have been diagnosed with AIDS after an epidemiological investigation. The deportation step came to ensure control over the spread of the virus. The announcement was made recently by Dr Fahd Al-Ghamlas, Director of thr Public Health Department, on the sidelines of the annual conference on AIDS and venereal diseases. Al Ghamlas said, “We conducted investigations into 165 cases among Kuwaiti nationals and more than 100 cases among residents, completing all necessary procedures.” He explained that the national statistical report on AIDS for 2023 has been prepared and submitted to the World Health Organization, demonstrating the country’s commitment to transparency and accurate data. He highlighted the successful issue and testing of over 2,000 AIDS-free certificates in the administration’s public health laboratories. Kuwait’s Health Minister, Ahmad Al-Awadhi, praised the country’s significant progress in the fight against AIDS in achieving the 90/90/90 indicators, achieving 90 percent HIV detection, health status awareness, and effective treatment for 90 percent of its population. He aims to achieve the 95/95/95 target by 2025. Dr Osama Al Baqsami, Head of the Organising Committee, emphasised the importance of collective societal action in combating AIDS and STDs.If anyone was still wondering whether Arsenal are truly back to their best, this win at West Ham will surely banish any lingering doubts. For the second time in a week, the Gunners put five goals past their opponents and this time they did it all in the first half. It made for a scintillating opening 45 minutes, which also saw West Ham score twice. Not since 2012 has a Premier League match had seven first-half goals, with only three previous examples in total. The second half was the opposite of the first. Not a single goal was scored and instead this game meandered to a quiet finish. Not that Mikel Arteta will have minded, with Arsenal hosting Manchester United on Wednesday night. This trip to West Ham was all about Arsenal securing the win that closed the gap to Premier League leaders Liverpool to six points. The Gunners can now sit back and watch Sunday’s showdown between the Reds and Manchester City in comfort. The Arsenal fans took great glee in chanting it to their West Ham counterparts at half-time: “Who put the ball in the West Ham net? Half the f*****g team did.” Colourful language, but the point stands. During their first-half blitz, Arsenal had five different scorers. It was the same in Lisbon on Tuesday night, when Arteta’s side dispatched Sporting CP 5-1. After months of looking turgid and flat in attack, the Gunners have found their spark again and everyone is contributing. The common factor is Martin Odegaard, and since his return to the team Arsenal have scored 14 goals in four games. The Norwegian was majestic against West Ham, running the show and helping to create Leandro Trossard’s goal with a great dinked pass to Bukayo Saka. Arsenal’s corner routines almost feel like NFL plays at times and, if that’s the case, then Gabriel is the quarterback. Before Saka swung the ball in for the defender to head home Arsenal’s opener, Gabriel called him over for a quick huddle. Saka was, presumably, left in no doubt where Gabriel wanted it and, after a run to the near post, he flicked the ball past Lukasz Fabianski. It was another well-worked routine by Arsenal, which had set-piece coach Nicolas Jover jumping for joy on the touchline. Jurrien Timber blocked Lucas Paqueta at the near post and, after Gabriel had lost Michail Antonio, the space was there for him take full advantage. The Brazilian reacted by replicating the celebration he performed after scoring against Sporting on Tuesday. There are some suggestions that Gabriel is pretending to be Batman, in response to Sporting striker Viktor Gyokeres imitating Bane. Either way, the Arsenal defender is heroic from corners. After a poor run of form earlier this season, this week must feel like a turning point for Trossard. The Belgian had previously not scored for Arsenal since September, but found the net against West Ham to add to his goal in Lisbon on Tuesday. With Saka on the other wing, Trossard is unlikely to get many plaudits. However, it should not be forgotten what a valuable asset he can be. During the back end of last season, the former Brighton star was arguably Arsenal’s best player in the final 10 games of the title race. His goal here, like the one at Sporting, was a tap-in, but it was followed by a great assist to set up Kai Havertz. Trossard played a lovely ball over the top for the German, who finished well to score Arsenal’s fourth of a frantic first half. With talk of a new contract for Trossard circulating, this was a timely reminder of what he can bring.Daily Post Nigeria ‘Yan Najeriya fiye da 45,600 sun nemi aiki a NNPC Home News Politics Metro Entertainment Sport Hausa ‘Yan Najeriya fiye da 45,600 sun nemi aiki a NNPC Published on December 7, 2024 By Nana Ismail Shugaban kamfanin man fetur na ƙasa (NNPCL), Mele Kyari, ya bayyana cewa mutum 45,689 ne suka halarci jarrabawar neman aiki a kamfanin. Babban jami’in hulɗa da jama’a na kamfanin, Mista Olufemi Soneye, ne ya bayyana haka cikin wata sanarwa da ya fitar. A cewar sanarwar,yayin ziyararsa ga cibiyar Ansar-Ud-Deen da ke Maitama, Abuja, Kyari ya yi alkawarin tabbatar da cewa tsarin tantancewa zai kasance mai sauƙi, gaskiya, da adalci. Ya bayyana cewa gwajin ƙwarewa ta hanyar kwamfuta don neman aiki a NNPCL ya fara a ranar Asabar a cibiyoyi daban-daban a faɗin ƙasar. Kyari ya ƙara da cewa, a matsayin NNPCL na mai bai wa kowa dama, an yi tanadi na musamman don tabbatar da cewa masu buƙata na musamman za su iya rubuta gwajin ba tare da wata matsala ba. Related Topics: Don't Miss Rundunar yan sanda ta kama dan fashi da makami a Bauchi You may like Advertise About Us Contact Us Privacy-Policy Terms Copyright © Daily Post Media LtdNone

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NoneAstrology has long captivated the human imagination, offering a glimpse into the celestial forces that shape our individual personalities and destinies. Among the 12 zodiac signs, there lies one that stands out as the rarest - a celestial gem that shines with a unique brilliance. As we delve into the world of astrology, unraveling the mysteries surrounding this elusive sign, we embark on a journey of self-discovery and a deeper understanding of the cosmic forces that govern our lives. Advertisement When it comes to the rarest zodiac sign, the clear winner is Aquarius. Spanning the period from January 20th to February 18th, Aquarius individuals are born during the shortest astrological season, making them a true celestial anomaly. This water-bearer sign is renowned for its innovative spirit, progressive thinking, and unwavering dedication to humanitarian causes. The Aquarian Personality Aquarians are the visionaries of the zodiac, known for their ability to think outside the box and challenge the status quo. Ruled by the planets Saturn and Uranus, they possess a unique blend of discipline and rebelliousness, often forging their own paths in life. These individuals are highly intelligent, creative, and possess a deep fascination with the world around them. They are drawn to unconventional ideas and are not afraid to question societal norms, making them true trailblazers in their respective fields. Advertisement Aquarius Compatibility When it comes to compatibility, Aquarians tend to thrive in relationships with fellow air signs, such as Gemini and Libra. The shared affinity for intellectual stimulation and a desire for freedom creates a harmonious dynamic. Additionally, Aquarians often find a strong connection with their opposite sign, Leo, as the fiery passion of the Lion complements the progressive nature of the Water Bearer. Advertisement Closely following Aquarius in rarity is the sign of Aries, the first sign of the zodiac. Born between March 21st and April 19th, Aries individuals are characterized by their boundless energy, impulsiveness, and unwavering determination. As a cardinal fire sign ruled by the planet Mars, Aries natives are often the first to take action and embrace new challenges. The Aries Personality Aries individuals are known for their bold and adventurous spirits, always seeking out new experiences and opportunities to push their boundaries. They possess a natural leadership quality, often taking charge in both personal and professional settings. However, their impulsiveness can sometimes lead to hasty decision-making, and their fiery temper can be a double-edged sword, requiring them to cultivate patience and self-control. Advertisement Aries Compatibility Aries individuals tend to thrive in relationships with other fire signs, such as Leo and Sagittarius, as they share a mutual appreciation for excitement and spontaneity. However, they may also find compatibility with air signs like Gemini and Aquarius, who can provide the intellectual stimulation and open-mindedness that Aries craves. Advertisement Rounding out the top three rarest zodiac signs is Capricorn, the ambitious and disciplined earth sign. Born between December 22nd and January 19th, Capricorns are known for their unwavering determination, practical approach to life, and strong sense of responsibility. The Capricorn Personality Capricorns are often described as the "old souls" of the zodiac, possessing a maturity and wisdom that belies their age. They are driven by a deep-seated desire to achieve their goals and climb the proverbial ladder of success. These individuals are highly organized, detail-oriented, and possess a strong work ethic, making them invaluable assets in both their personal and professional lives. However, their tendency towards perfectionism and a sometimes-rigid mindset can also be their Achilles' heel. Advertisement Capricorn Compatibility Capricorns often find compatibility with other earth signs, such as Virgo and Taurus, as they share a similar pragmatic approach to life. They may also forge strong connections with water signs like Cancer and Pisces, who can provide the emotional depth and nurturing support that Capricorns sometimes crave. Advertisement The rarity of zodiac signs is influenced by a variety of factors, ranging from seasonal trends to global events. As mentioned earlier, the shorter astrological season for Aquarius, Aries, and Capricorn contributes to their relative scarcity, as there are simply fewer potential birthdays within those timeframes. The Impact of Seasonality The timing of conception and birth can have a significant impact on the prevalence of certain zodiac signs. For instance, the winter months, when Aquarius and Capricorn are born, tend to see fewer births compared to the warmer seasons. Conversely, the summer months, which coincide with the birth of signs like Leo and Cancer, often witness a surge in population, making these signs more common. Advertisement The Influence of Global Events Worldwide events, such as pandemics, wars, and economic fluctuations, can also shape the rarity of zodiac signs. These factors can influence birth rates, leading to fluctuations in the representation of different signs over time. For example, the COVID-19 pandemic has been observed to have impacted birth rates, potentially altering the relative rarity of certain zodiac signs in the years to come. Advertisement In recent years, the topic of Ophiuchus, the alleged 13th zodiac sign, has gained attention in the astrological community. This constellation, which falls between Scorpio and Sagittarius, has sparked debates about the validity of the traditional 12-sign zodiac system. The Controversy Surrounding Ophiuchus While some believe that Ophiuchus should be recognized as a legitimate zodiac sign, the majority of astrologers and astronomers maintain that the 12-sign system is the established and accepted framework. NASA's clarification that the addition of Ophiuchus does not necessitate the creation of a new zodiac sign has helped to quell the confusion surrounding this celestial body. Advertisement The Enigma of Ophiuchus Personality Traits For those who do acknowledge Ophiuchus as a zodiac sign, the associated personality traits remain a mystery. Without a clear consensus from the astrological community, the unique characteristics of Ophiuchus individuals remain largely speculative, leaving enthusiasts to explore and interpret this enigmatic sign on their own. Advertisement While the rarest zodiac signs have captivated our attention, it is also intriguing to explore the most common sign of the zodiac. According to the data, the sign that boasts the highest birth rates is none other than Leo, the regal and charismatic fire sign. The Allure of Leo Leos, born between July 23rd and August 22nd, are known for their larger-than-life personalities, magnetic charm, and innate sense of confidence. These individuals thrive in the spotlight, often gravitating towards roles and pursuits that allow them to showcase their creativity and leadership abilities. Their unwavering loyalty and generous spirit make them beloved by their friends and loved ones. Advertisement The Influence of Seasonal Factors The prevalence of Leos can be attributed to several factors, including the timing of conception during the holiday season and the warmer, more relaxed summer months. These conditions may contribute to an increase in birth rates, leading to a higher representation of the Leo sign within the zodiac. Advertisement It is important to note that the rarity of zodiac signs is not a fixed or static phenomenon. As mentioned earlier, global events, seasonal trends, and other demographic factors can all influence the relative prevalence of different signs over time. This ever-changing landscape of zodiac sign rarity serves as a testament to the dynamic and complex nature of astrology. Tracking Shifts in Zodiac Sign Rarity Researchers and astrologists alike closely monitor birth rate data and demographic trends to stay informed about the evolving rarity of zodiac signs. By analyzing these patterns, they can gain valuable insights into the shifting dynamics of the celestial landscape and how it may impact the lives and experiences of individuals born under different signs. Advertisement The Significance of Zodiac Sign Rarity While the rarity of a zodiac sign may not directly determine an individual's personality or destiny, it can provide valuable context and a deeper understanding of one's astrological profile. Knowing the relative scarcity of your sign can offer a sense of uniqueness and a deeper connection to the cosmic forces that shape your identity. Advertisement Regardless of whether your sign is considered rare or common, the true essence of astrology lies in the understanding and appreciation of your individual astrological makeup. Each zodiac sign, with its unique blend of traits and characteristics, offers a distinct and valuable contribution to the cosmic tapestry. Celebrating Your Zodiac Individuality Embrace the qualities that make your zodiac sign unique, whether it's the innovative spirit of Aquarius, the adventurous nature of Aries, or the disciplined determination of Capricorn. Revel in the ways in which your sign sets you apart, and use this knowledge to navigate the complexities of life with greater self-awareness and confidence. Advertisement The Richness of the Zodiac Diversity While the rarity of zodiac signs may capture our attention, it is important to remember that each sign holds equal value and significance within the astrological realm. The diversity of the zodiac is what lends it its richness and depth, allowing individuals to find their unique place within the cosmic tapestry. Advertisement As we delve into the captivating world of astrology, the rarity of zodiac signs emerges as a fascinating aspect of this ancient practice. From the visionary Aquarius to the ambitious Capricorn, each rare sign offers a unique perspective and set of qualities that enrich the tapestry of the zodiac. By understanding the factors that contribute to the rarity of these celestial gems, we gain a deeper appreciation for the dynamic and ever-evolving nature of astrology. Whether your sign is considered rare or common, embracing your zodiac individuality and celebrating the diversity of the cosmos is the true essence of this timeless discipline. Advertisement As we continue to explore the mysteries of the stars, may we be inspired to uncover the hidden depths of our own astrological identities and the profound insights they hold for our personal growth and self-discovery. This article was created using Ai technology . AdvertisementWASHINGTON — The House passed a $895 billion measure Wednesday that authorizes a 1% increase in defense spending this fiscal year and would give a double-digit pay raise to about half of the enlisted service members in the military. The bill is traditionally strongly bipartisan, but some Democratic lawmakers opposed the inclusion of a ban on transgender medical treatments for children of military members if such treatment could result in sterilization. The bill passed by a vote of 281-140 and next moves to the Senate, where lawmakers sought a bigger boost in defense spending than the current measure allows. Lawmakers are touting the bill's 14.5% pay raise for junior enlisted service members and a 4.5% increase for others as key to improving the quality of life for those serving in the U.S. military. Those serving as junior enlisted personnel are in pay grades that generally track with their first enlistment term. Lawmakers said service member pay failed to remain competitive with the private sector, forcing many military families to rely on food banks and government assistance programs to put food on the table. The bill also provides significant new resources for child care and housing. "No service member should have to live in squalid conditions and no military family should have to rely on food stamps to feed their children, but that's exactly what many of our service members are experiencing, especially the junior enlisted," said Rep. Mike Rogers, R-Ala., chairman of the House Armed Services Committee. "This bill goes a long way to fixing that." The bill sets key Pentagon policy that lawmakers will attempt to fund through a follow-up appropriations bill. The overall spending tracks the numbers established in a 2023 agreement that then-Speaker Kevin McCarthy, R-Calif., reached with President Joe Biden to increase the nation's borrowing authority and avoid a federal default in exchange for spending restraints. Many senators wanted to increase defense spending about $25 billion above what was called for in that agreement, but those efforts failed. Sen. Roger Wicker, R-Miss., who is expected to serve as the next chairman of the Senate Armed Services Committee, said the overall spending level was a "tremendous loss for our national defense," though he agreed with many provisions in the bill. "We need to make a generational investment to deter the Axis of Aggressors. I will not cease work with my congressional colleagues, the Trump administration, and others until we achieve it," Wicker said. Sen. Roger Wicker, R-Miss., speaks with reporters Nov. 21 on Capitol Hill in Washington. House Republicans don't want to go above the McCarthy-Biden agreement for defense spending and are looking to go way below it for many nondefense programs. They are also focused on cultural issues. The bill prohibits funding for teaching critical race theory in the military and prohibits TRICARE health plans from covering gender dysphoria treatment for children under 18 if that treatment could result in sterilization. Rep. Adam Smith of Washington state, the ranking Democratic member of the House Armed Services Committee, said minors dealing with gender dysphoria is a "very real problem." He said the treatments available, including puberty blockers and hormone therapy, proved effective at helping young people dealing with suicidal thoughts, anxiety and depression. "These treatments changed their lives and in many cases saved their lives," Smith said. "And in this bill, we decided we're going to bar service members' children from having access to that." Smith said the number of minors in service member families receiving transgender medical care extends into the thousands. He could have supported a study asking medical experts to determine whether such treatments are too often used, but a ban on health insurance coverage went too far. He said Speaker Mike Johnson's office insisted on the ban and said the provision "taints an otherwise excellent piece of legislation." Rep. Chip Roy, R-Texas, called the ban a step in the right direction, saying, "I think these questions need to be pulled out of the debate of defense, so we can get back to the business of defending the United States of America without having to deal with social engineering debates." Smith said he agrees with Roy that lawmakers should be focused on the military and not on cultural conflicts, "and yet, here it is in this bill." House Minority Leader Hakeem Jeffries, D-N.Y., responds to reporters Dec. 6 during his weekly news conference at the Capitol in Washington. Rep. Hakeem Jeffries, the House Democratic leader, said his team did not tell Democrats how to vote on the bill. "There's a lot of positive things in the National Defense Authorization Act that were negotiated in a bipartisan way, and there are some troubling provisions in a few areas as well," Jeffries said. The defense policy bill also looks to strengthen deterrence against China. It calls for investing $15.6 billion to build military capabilities in the Indo-Pacific region. The Biden administration requested about $10 billion. On Israel, the bill, among other things, includes an expansion of U.S. joint military exercises with Israel and a prohibition on the Pentagon citing casualty data from Hamas. The defense policy bill is one of the final measures that lawmakers view as a must-pass before making way for a new Congress in January. Rising threats from debt collectors against members of the U.S. armed forces are undermining national security, according to data from the Consumer Financial Protection Bureau (CFPB), a federal watchdog that protects consumer rights. To manage the impact of financial stress on individual performance, the Defense Department dedicates precious resources to improving financial literacy, so service members know the dangers of notorious no-credit-check loans. “The financial well-being of service members and their families is one of the Department’s top priorities,” said Andrew Cohen, the director of financial readiness in the Office of the Deputy Assistant Secretary of Defense at the Pentagon. But debt collectors are gaining ground. Last quarter, debt collection complaints by U.S. military service members increased 24% , and attempts to collect on “debts not owed” surged 40%. Complaints by service members against debt collectors for deceptive practices ballooned from 1,360 in the fourth quarter of 2023 to 1,833 in the first quarter of 2024. “There’s a connection between the financial readiness and the readiness of a service member to perform their duty,” said Jim Rice, Assistant Director, Office of Servicemember Affairs at the Consumer Financial Protection Bureau. Laws exist to protect the mission readiness of U.S. troops from being compromised by threats and intimidation, but debt collectors appear to be violating them at an alarming pace. “If they’re threatening to call your commander or get your security clearance revoked, that’s illegal,” says Deborah Olvera, financial readiness manager at Wounded Warriors Project, and a military spouse who’s been harassed herself by a collection agency that tried to extort money from her for a debt she didn’t owe. But after she requested the name of the original creditor, she never heard from them again. “The financial well-being of service members and their families is one of the Department’s top priorities.” —Andrew Cohen, Director of Financial Readiness at the Pentagon Under the Fair Debt Collection Practices Act, it’s illegal for debt collectors to threaten to contact your boss or have you arrested because it violates your financial privacy. The FDCPA also prohibits debt collectors from making false, deceptive, or misleading representations in connection with the collection of a debt, even for borrowers with bad credit scores. But according to the data, debt collectors are increasingly ignoring those rules. “Debt collection continues to be one of the top consumer complaint categories,” said a spokesperson at the Federal Trade Commission. The commission released a report earlier this year revealing that consumers were scammed $10 billion in 2023, a new benchmark for fraud losses. In his book Debt: The First 5,000 Years, David Graeber argues that debt often creates a relationship that can feel more oppressive than systems of hierarchy, like slavery or caste systems because it starts by presuming equality between the debtor and the creditor. When the debtor falls into arrears, that equality is then destroyed. This sense of betrayal and the subsequent imbalance of power leads to widespread resentment toward lenders. Photo Credit: Olena Yakobchuk / Shutterstock The debt collector reportedly harassing military service members most was Resurgent Capital Services, a subsidiary of collection giant Sherman Financial Group. The company tacks on accrued interest and junk fees and tries to collect on debts purchased for pennies on the dollar from cable companies, hospitals, and credit card companies, among others. Sherman Financial Group is run by billionaire Benjamin Navarro, who has a reported net worth of $1.5 billion, according to Forbes. Sherman Financial also owns subprime lender Credit One Bank and LVNV Funding, which outsource collections to Resurgent Capital. According to CFPB data, the second worst offender is CL Holdings, the parent company of debt-buyer Jefferson Capital Systems. The company has also been named in numerous complaints to the Better Business Bureau for alleged violations of the FDCPA, such as failing to properly validate debts or update credit reports with accurate information. Under the leadership of CEO David Burton, Jefferson Capital Systems is a wholly-owned subsidiary of CompuCredit Corporation, which markets subprime credit cards under the names Aspire, Majestic, and others. The third most referenced debt collector is publicly traded Portfolio Recovery Associates [NASDAQ: PRAA], which was forced to pay $27 million in penalties for making false representations about debts, initiating lawsuits without proper documentation, and other violations. Portfolio Recovery Associates is run by CEO Vikram Atal. Fourth place for alleged worst offender goes to Encore Capital Group [NASDAQ ECPG], which was required to pay $42 million in consumer refunds and a $10 million penalty for violating the Fair Debt Collection Practices Act. Encore collects under its subsidiary Midland Credit Management Group. These debt collectors all operate under a veritable shell game of company and brand names, almost none of which are disclosed on their websites, sending consumers on a wild goose chase to try and figure out how they’re related to each other. But despite their attempts to hide their tracks behind a smoke screen of subsidiaries, a leopard can’t change its spots, and the CFPB complaint database makes it harder for them to try. Photo Credit: Bumble Dee / Shutterstock Although widely considered a consumer-friendly state, complaints spiked most in California, which saw a 188% increase in complaints filed from the fourth quarter of 2023 to the first quarter of 2024. California is home to 157,367 military personnel, making it the most populous state for active-duty service members. The second-largest increase in debt collection complaints was in Texas, which saw a 66% jump from the fourth quarter of 2023 to the first quarter of 2024. The U.S. Department of Defense reports 111,005 service members stationed in the Lone Star State, which is the third-most populous state for active-duty military. The rising trends do not correlate to the number of military personnel by state. Complaints against debt collectors in Virginia, the second most populous state with 126,145 active duty personnel, decreased by 29% in the same quarter-over-quarter period. And complaints filed quarter-over-quarter in North Carolina, the fifth most populous state with 91,077 military personnel, decreased by 3% in the same period. The third largest percentage increase in debt collection complaints was from service members stationed in Maryland, where alleged harassment reports jumped 112% from the fourth quarter of 2023 to the first quarter of 2024. Maryland ranks number 12 with just 28,059 active duty service members. Fourth place goes to Ohio – the 28th most populous active-duty state – where complaints doubled, followed by Arizona – the 15th most populous military state – where complaints were up 70% in the same quarter-over-quarter period. Photo Credit: PeopleImages.com - Yuri A / Shutterstock In 2007, Congress passed the Military Lending Act to cap the cost of credit to a 36% annual percentage rate, inclusive of junk fees and late charges, for active duty military service members. That rate is still considerably higher than average credit card rates, which range from 8% for borrowers with excellent credit scores to as high as 36% for borrowers with bad credit. But lenders still get hauled into court for violating the MLA. Don Hankey, the billionaire subprime auto lender who funded Donald Trump’s $175 million appeal bond , is among those violators. His company, Westlake Financial, which markets high-interest car loans for bad credit, has been sued twice by the Department of Justice for harassing military service members. In 2017, the DoJ alleged Hankey’s Westlake Financial illegally repossessed at least 70 vehicles owned by military service members. Westlake Financial paid $700,000 to settle the charges. In 2022, Westlake Financial paid $250,000 for allegedly cheating U.S. troops out of interest rates they were legally entitled to. Westlake Financial continues to receive complaints from military service members alleging abusive debt collection practices on its no-credit-check loans. A steady year-over-year increase in the number of complaints filed against Westlake Financial continued from 2020 to 2023. Consumer Financial Protection Bureau data shows a 13% increase in the number of complaints against the company from 2020 to 2021, a 28% increase from 2021 to 2022, and a torrential 119% surge from 2022 to 2023. The numbers suggest systemic complaint-handling processes and inadequate customer service resources. Photo Credit: Cynthia Shirk / Shutterstock On May 16, 2024, a deceptively named predatory lending industry front group dubbed the Community Financial Services Association of America (CFSA) lost a legal attempt to defund the Consumer Financial Protection Bureau. In an effort to deprive Americans of essential consumer protections, the lobby group argued that the Consumer Financial Protection Bureau’s funding structure was unconstitutional. But the Supreme Court denied its claim. In a 7-2 ruling, the Court held that the Consumer Financial Protection Bureau’s funding structure is indeed constitutional. That means the Consumer Financial Protection Bureau cannot be defunded, but it does not mean the agency cannot be defanged. The New York Times suggested that Hankey’s incentive to finance Trump’s $175 million bond could have been a reciprocity pledge to neuter the Consumer Financial Protection Bureau if Trump wins the upcoming U.S. presidential election. If Trump wins a second term, he could replace Consumer Financial Protection Bureau director Rohit Chopra, an American consumer advocate, with a predatory lending advocate. In 2020, the Trump Administration secured a Supreme Court ruling that made it easier for the president to fire the head of the Consumer Financial Protection Bureau. The ruling struck down previous restrictions on when a president can fire the bureau’s director. Like other federal agencies, the Consumer Financial Protection Bureau has also been confronted for overstepping its bounds, pushing too far, and acting unfairly against entities it regulates. Photo Credit: Lux Blue / Shutterstock Seasonality and rising interest rates do not explain the increase in debt collection complaints from service members. The surge in complaints is not tied to predictable seasonal fluctuations or changes in interest rates. The increase in debt collection complaints by service members may point to underlying systemic issues, such as aggressive and predatory debt collection practices that exploit the unique financial vulnerabilities of service members, who face frequent relocations and deployments. Debt Complaints by Service Members The 24% spike in debt collection complaints exhibits no correlation to fluctuations in interest rates. 30-Year Fixed Mortgage Rates Pandemic stimulus checks were also not a factor. COVID-19 relief benefit checks went through three major rounds during the pandemic. The final round of Economic Impact Payments went out in March 2021 . To better understand the rising trend of debt collection complaints, we calculated the increase in the total number of complaints and the percentage increase quarter-over-quarter. For example, New Jersey has the second largest percentage increase in complaints quarter-over-quarter, but the total number of complaints increased by just 16. The data for this study was sourced from the Consumer Financial Protection Bureau (CFPB) complaint database. The dataset specifically targeted complaints filed by U.S. military service members, identified using the tag “Servicemember” within Q4 2023 and Q1 2024. Readers can find the detailed research methodology underlying this news story in the accompanying section here . For complete results, see U.S. Troops Face Mounting Threats from Predatory Debt Collectors on BadCredit.org . Homelessness reached record levels in 2023, as rents and home prices continued to rise in most of the U.S. One group was particularly impacted: people who have served in the U.S. military. "This time last year, we knew the nation was facing a deadly public health crisis," Jeff Olivet, executive director of the U.S. Interagency Council on Homelessness, said in a statement about the 2023 numbers. He said the latest homelessness estimates from the Department of Housing and Urban Development "confirms the depth of the crisis." At least 35,000 veterans were experiencing homelessness in 2023, according to HUD. While that's about half of what it was in 2009—when the organization began collecting data—things have plateaued in recent years despite active efforts to get that number to zero. Although they make up just 6.6% of the total homeless population, veterans are more likely to be at risk of homelessness than Americans overall. Of every 10,000 Americans, 20 were experiencing homelessness. Of veterans living in the United States, that number jumps to 22, HUD data shows. Complicated by bureaucracy, family dynamics, and prejudice, the path from serving in the military to homelessness is a long one. According to a 2022 study by Yale School of Medicine researchers, homelessness typically occurs within four years of leaving the military, as veterans must contend with the harsh reality of finding a job in a world where employers struggle to see how skills on the battlefield transfer to a corporate environment. These days, veterans also deal with historically high rent and home prices, which causes many to rely on family generosity while figuring out a game plan. Stacker examined academic studies, analyzed government data, and spoke with members of the Biden administration, experts, and former members of the armed forces to see the struggles members of the military face when leaving the armed forces. The Department of Veterans Affairs offers transition assistance to the roughly 250,000 service members who leave each year. However, those programs can be burdensome and complex to navigate, especially for those who don't have a plan for post-military life. Only a small portion of veterans have jobs lined up when they leave, according to 2019 Pew Research. Many also choose to live with relatives until they get on their feet, which can be longer than anticipated. Some former service members are unsure what kind of career they'd like to pursue and may have to get further education or training, Carl Castro, director of the Military and Veteran Programs at the Suzanne Dworak-Peck School of Social Work at the University of Southern California, told Stacker. "It takes years for that kind of transition," Castro said. Many have trouble finding a job after leaving the service, even if they are qualified. Some employers carry misconceptions about those who have served. A 2020 analysis from the journal Human Resource Management Review found that some veterans face hiring discrimination due to negative stereotypes that lead hiring managers to write them off as a poor culture fit. Underemployment, or working low-wage jobs below their skill level, is also an issue. While the unemployment rate for veterans was 3% in March 2024, a study released by Penn State at the end of 2023 found three years after leaving the service, 61% of veterans said they were underemployed because of perceived skill mismatches . This phenomenon can have long-term economic effects, and eventually, that frustration can boil over, strain relationships, and potentially lead to housing instability. Working, especially a low-wage job, is not protection against homelessness. A 2021 study from the University of Chicago found half of people living in homeless shelters and 2 in 5 unsheltered people were employed, full or part-time. High rents make it difficult to save up, even when applying for a VA loan—a mortgage backed by the Department of Veterans Affairs that typically has more favorable terms. While the VA does not require a downpayment, some lenders, who ultimately provide the loan, do. They're not entirely risk-free either, and veterans can still lose their homes if they are unable to keep up with their mortgages. In November 2023, the VA put a six-month pause on foreclosures when an NPR investigation found thousands of veterans were in danger of losing their homes after a COVID forbearance program ended. Biden officials pointed to high rents and the end of COVID-era housing restrictions like eviction moratoriums to explain the spike in Americans experiencing homelessness. In the last year, homelessness rose 12%—to more than 650,000 people—the highest level since data began being collected in 2007. Overall, more than half of people experiencing homelessness in 2023 live in states with high living costs. Most were in California, followed by New York and Florida. Western states, including Montana and Utah, experienced massive population growth during the pandemic, becoming hubs for remote workers who drove home prices and rents even further. For veterans, housing costs certainly play a role, but those who leave the military also face systemic barriers. "It's worrying there are people that continue to fall through the cracks," said Jeanette Yih Harvie, a research associate at Syracuse University's D'Aniello Institute for Veterans and Military Families. Just under a quarter of adults experiencing homelessness have a severe mental illness , according to 2022 HUD survey data. They are also likely to have chronic illnesses but are unable to maintain preventative care, which only exacerbates these problems. Veterans facing homelessness are more likely to have experienced trauma , either before or after joining the military, according to Yale researchers who analyzed the 2019-2020 National Health and Resilience in Veterans Study. Childhood trauma was among the most significant commonalities among vets who become homeless. Substance use disorder is also widespread and can indicate an undiagnosed mental illness . Racial and ethnic disparities are at play, too. A 2023 study in the Journal of Psychiatric Research showed that Hispanic and Black veterans were more likely to screen positive for PTSD, and Hispanic veterans were more likely to report having suicidal ideation. Overall, access to mental health care has improved in the last decade or so. In December 2023, the VA announced it would open nine additional counseling centers. However, the stigma of getting help remains, especially after years of being conditioned to be self-reliant and pull oneself up by their bootstraps. That help, in the form of public policy, is slowly working to catch up to the need. In 2023, the Biden administration invested millions into research programs and studies on suicide prevention by the VA office in addition to a proposed $16 billion to improve quality and lower-cost mental health care services for veterans. And, in February of this year, HUD and the VA announced they would give up to $14 million in vouchers to public housing agencies for veterans experiencing homelessness. The program would also offer case management and other services. Still, with a culture that pushes people to keep going, it can be challenging for servicemembers to take advantage of these opportunities, Harvie said. "When you've been doing that for the last 15 or 20 years, it's difficult to stop and say, 'I'm the person that needs help.'" Story editing by Kelly Glass. Copy editing by Kristen Wegrzyn. Stay up-to-date on the latest in local and national government and political topics with our newsletter.

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Manchester City are in danger of Champions League elimination, while Liverpool made it six wins from six and Arsenal and Aston Villa are flying. Meanwhile Celtic's play-off hopes remain alive. Two games remain in the revamped Champions League's new 36-team league phase. The top eight automatically progress to the last 16 and, crucially, skip the two-legged knockout play-off round. And 2023 champions City are far from the only Champions League heavyweight sitting uncomfortably. First, here's a reminder of what the 36 league phase teams are aiming for. Those finishing in the top eight automatically progress to the last 16, where they will be seeded. They will await the winners of eight two-legged knockout play-off ties featuring the clubs ranked from ninth to 24th. Those finishing between ninth and 16th will be seeded and face a team placed 17th to 24th, with the advantage of playing the second leg at home. The clubs 25th or lower are eliminated and do not gain entry in to the Europa League. Given this is the first edition of the new format, it remains to be seen exactly how many points will be required to achieve a top-eight finish, or avoid elimination from the competition. Before this season's competition, Opta calculated each teams' projected points tallies and likelihood of progressing based on 50,000 simulations of the league phase. They found that 16 points - potentially five wins and one draw from eight matches - would give a 98% chance of finishing in the top eight. After game week five, Opta recalculated and said 16 points now gives teams an 87% chance of a top-eight finish. Meanwhile, achieving 10 points - three wins and one draw, for example - would give teams a 94% chance of securing a place in the top 24. However, any team collecting fewer than eight points can expect their involvement in European competition this season to come to an end. Probably the biggest talking point, certainly in English football, is Manchester City's dangerous situation. They sit 22nd after a 2-0 defeat at Juventus, only one point above the places that mean total elimination. But much more than that, the team in that spot are Paris St-Germain, who City visit next on 22 January. PSG beat Red Bull Salzburg 3-0 to stay in the hunt. The loser of that game next month will be on the brink. Defending champions Real Madrid, even with their 3-2 win at Atalanta, are only one point above City and two above PSG. Liverpool are the only team to win all their games after a 1-0 win over Girona. Barcelona are next after a 3-2 victory at Borussia Dortmund, who sit ninth. The Reds and Barca are guaranteed a place in at least the play-off round. Arsenal and Aston Villa are both in the top eight after victories over Monaco and RB Leipzig respectively, along with Bayer Leverkusen, Inter Milan, Brest and Lille. Brest, who beat PSV 1-0, are the biggest surprise of the tournament in their first season in any European competition. They have to play their home games in Guingamp because their stadium is not up to Uefa standards. Dortmund, Bayern Munich, Atletico Madrid and AC Milan are the teams just below the top eight. Celtic, who sit in between Real Madrid and City, drew 0-0 at Dinamo Zagreb and play point-less Young Boys next as they look to seal a play-off spot. Leipzig, Slovan Bratislava and Young Boys have lost all six games and are the first three teams eliminated. A thrilling finale is sure on 29 January, when all 18 games will be played simultaneously at 20:00 GMT. Watch highlights of every Champions League game from 22:00 on Wednesday on BBC iPlayer and the BBC Sport website and app. There will also be a Champions League Match of the Day on BBC One on Wednesday, from 22:40 to 00:00.

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