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He and perennial rival Luke Humphries provided a taste of what might be to follow in next month’s World Darts Championship, but it was “Cool Hand” who emerged victorious 11-7 to retain his Players Championship title. It brings to an end a 12-match winning run that saw him lift the Grand Slam of Darts last weekend and through to the final in Minehead having seen off Ross Smith and Mike De Decker on finals day. Littler ended World Grand Prix champion De Decker's hopes of a second big-stage triumph in Sunday afternoon's quarter-finals, before edging out former European Champion Smith 11-9 in the semis. Despite posting some huge checkouts in the game's latter stages, he was left to rue a slow start in the final as he fell 5-1 down, although the £60,000 in prize money moves him up to fourth on the PDC Order of Merit. "It was tough - I missed a few doubles and if you don't take chances early it's a lot to come back," said the 17-year-old. "Luke took full advantage, so fair play to him. I know I hit the 170 and the 164 but I didn't have enough in the end." Luke Littler salutes the Minehead crowd having received his runner-up trophy (Image: Kieran Cleeves/PDC) For a match that was so highly anticipated, it is fair to say it struggled to catch fire in the early stages. Both players’ averages were in the low-80s, but it was Humphries who took his chances – a break of Littler’s throw in the very first leg was consolidated by a hold to go 2-0 up. Even the teenager’s favourite double 10 was deserting him and although he did get himself on the board with a hold of throw, the next two legs were symptomatic of his struggles to take his chances. It took Humphries 19 darts to win both the fourth and fifth legs to stride into the first break with a 4-1 lead. Both men came back firing and produced the kind of darts everybody expected, with Humphries retaining control but Littler producing the biggest moments. A “tops-tops” finish to check out 105 was followed by the “big fish” checkout of 170 in consecutive legs on his own throw to halt the Humphries charge and when his rival failed to close out the 10th leg, Littler took his chance to break back by hitting double top. That meant that, having been staring down the barrel of a 7-3 deficit, “The Nuke” went into the second break just two legs behind at 6-4. Littler appeared to have found his stride, and the Minehead crowd had found their voices in support of him even if the line was crossed on occasion, with an instance of whistling drawing the ire of both players and the match referee. Two more superb ton-plus checkouts – 164 in Leg 11 and 136 in the 15th either side of a 12-dart hold – ignited those in attendance, but Humphries was holding off any attempts by Littler to break his throw and retained the advantage heading into the final mini-session. However, that was to be as good as it got for Littler as Humphries swept the final session, claiming a crucial break of throw in Leg 17 before closing out victory by hitting his second match dart. Littler and Luke Humphries have now met in three major finals, with Sunday providing Humphries with his second victory (Image: Kieran Cleeves/PDC)By LINDSEY BAHR Do you have a someone in your life who plays Vulture’s Cinematrix game every morning? Or maybe they have the kitchen television turned to Turner Classic Movies all day and make a point of organizing Oscar polls at work? Hate to break it to you: They might be a hard-to-please cinephile. But while you might not want to get into a winless debate over the “Juror No. 2” release or the merits of “Megalopolis” with said person, they don’t have to be hard to buy gifts for. The Associated Press has gathered up some of the best items out there to keep any movie lover stylish and informed. “Interstellar” 4K UHD While Christopher Nolan dreams up his next film, fans can tide themselves over by revisiting his modern classic “Interstellar,” which will be back in IMAX theaters on the weekend of Dec. 6, followed by the home release of a new collector’s edition on 4K Ultra HD and Blu-ray ($59.95). A third disc in the set, available Dec. 10, contains more than two hours of bonus content, like a never-before-seen storyboard sequence, and new interviews with Nolan, producer Emma Thomas and famous fans Peter Jackson and Denis Villeneuve . A biography of Elaine May Elaine May does not give interviews anymore. But thankfully that didn’t deter writer Carrie Courogen, who did a remarkable job stitching together the life of one of our culture’s most fascinating, and prickly, talents. “Miss May Does Not Exist” is full of delightful anecdotes about the sharp and satirical comedian who gained fame as one half of Nichols and May and went on to direct films like “The Heartbreak Kid” and “Mikey and Nicky.” Courogen writes about May’s successes, flops and her legendary scuffles with the Hollywood establishment. It’s a vital companion to Mark Harris’ biography of Mike Nichols . Macmillan. $30. A “Matrix” hoodie The Academy Museum of Motion Pictures has an exclusive new “Matrix” sweatshirt for sale in conjunction with its Cyberpunk exhibition. Brain Dead Studios designed and created several items, including the black hoodie ($140), a white rabbit tee ($54) and a pint glass ($18). An Academy Museum exhibition catalog If you can’t make it to Los Angeles to check out the “Color in Motion” exhibit for yourself, the Academy Museum also has a beautiful new companion book for sale ($55) charting the development of color technology in film and its impact. It includes photos from films like “The Red Shoes,” “Vertigo,” “2001: A Space Odyssey,” and images of rare prints from the silent era. The Academy Museum Store is having a sale (20% off everything) from Nov. 28 to Dec. 2. A status tote Related Articles Things To Do | US airports with worst weather delays during holiday season Things To Do | The right book can inspire the young readers in your life, from picture books to YA novels Things To Do | These holiday gifts change the game when building fires, printing photos, watching birds and more Things To Do | ‘Gladiator II’ review: Are you not moderately entertained? Things To Do | Beer pairings for your holiday feasts Want to look like a real film festival warrior, the kind who sees five movies a day, files a review and still manages to make the late-night karaoke party? You’re going to need the ultimate status tote from the independent streaming service MUBI . Simple, to-the-point and only for people in the know. $25. The Metrograph magazine Film magazines may be an endangered species, but print is not dead at The Metrograph . Manhattan’s coolest movie theater is starting a biannual print publication “for cinephiles and cultural connoisseurs alike.” The first issue’s cover art is by cinematographer Ed Lachman (“Carol”), and contributors include the likes of Daniel Clowes, Ari Aster, Steve Martin and Simon Rex. There’s also a conversation with Clint Eastwood. It’s currently available for pre-order and will be in bookstores Dec. 10 for $25 ($15 for Metrograph members). Director style This is not a book about filmmaking styles, camera angles and leadership choices. It’s literally about what directors wear. “How Directors Dress: On Set, in the Edit, and Down the Red Carpet” ($40) has over 200 archival photos of filmmakers in action: Spike Lee in his basketball caps, Sofia Coppola in her Charvet button-ups, Steven Spielberg’s denim on denim and many more. With a forward by the always elegant Joanna Hogg and writing from some of the top fashion journalists, it’s a beautiful look at how filmmakers really dress for work — and might even be a source of inspiration.Qatar tribune Minister of Finance HE Ali bin Ahmed Al Kuwari held a pivotal meeting with London Stock Exchange Group (LSEG) CEO David Schwimmer during his official visit to the United Kingdom. The meeting underscored the robust relationship between Qatar and the United Kingdom, particularly in the realms of finance and economics. Both leaders explored avenues to deepen collaboration and enhance partnerships that align with their mutual goals of driving sustainable economic growth and innovation. Discussions revolved around key areas of interest, including advancements in financial technology (fintech), strategies for bolstering market liquidity, and measures to promote bilateral investments. The parties also examined the potential for joint initiatives that leverage LSEG’s global expertise in financial infrastructure and Qatar’s strategic position as a regional economic hub. This engagement reflects Qatar’s proactive diplomacy in expanding its global economic footprint and solidifying its role as a bridge between regional and international financial markets. Copy 06/12/2024 10

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Spanish global energy company Iberdrola has completed its $2.5 billion acquisition of Central Maine Power’s parent company, Avangrid, the company said in a statement Monday. Iberdrola previously held 81.6 percent of Avangrid’s stock. In June it bought the remaining 18.4 percent. The deal, which was approved by the Federal Energy Regulatory Commission and New York state regulators, turns Avangrid into a private company. Avangrid shareholders will receive $35.75 per share from the acquisition, and the company will be delisted from the New York Stock Exchange, according to Iberdrola. Maine’s Public Utilities Commission in September waived a requirement that it approve the acquisition , with Chair Phil Bartlett and Commissioner Patrick Scully noting that Iberdrola had obtained a 100 percent stake in former CMP parent company Energy East in 2008. Opponents at the time, including Maine Public Advocate William Harwood and consumer groups argued that the takeover transforms the publicly traded Avangrid into a private company, which exempts it from filing certain financial records with the Securities and Exchange Commission. Former Maine PUC Chair Sharon Reishus told Maine Public earlier this year the commission will still retain broad regulatory power over CMP. More articles from the BDNAlex Ovechkin is expected to miss 4 to 6 weeks with a broken left leg

The political and social fabric of Mozambique is disintegrating, largely due to the reckless actions and incendiary rhetoric of the leader of the opposition party RENAMO. Following the controversial October 9, 2024 elections, which were contested over allegations of fraud, he has escalated the situation by encouraging violence and civil disobedience. His rhetoric is not merely political dissent — it is a direct and dangerous incitement to violence. At least 110 people have already lost their lives, most of them civilians, caught in the crossfire of protests and police action that he stoked. His role in this crisis must not go unchallenged. The international community, particularly the International Criminal Court (ICC), must intervene immediately to hold him accountable. If his actions are left unchecked, Mozambique could face a humanitarian catastrophe from which it may never recover. Following the disputed election, Mozambique has descended into chaos. The Council of State, an advisory body to the president, issued a call for electoral reform, urging greater transparency and the de-politicisation of the electoral process. This was a sign of the government’s willingness to address opposition grievances and pursue meaningful reform. Yet, despite this olive branch, the leader of the opposition responded by escalating calls for unrest, actively undermining any hope for peaceful dialogue. The situation on the ground is dire. Human rights observers report that at least 110 people have died in the violent protests that followed Mondlane’s call to reject the election results. Most of the casualties were civilians gunned down by police during confrontations that involved road blockades, attacks on security forces, and widespread destruction. He has not only failed to call for calm but has further incited violence. His inflammatory rhetoric encourages his supporters to persist in their protests, disregarding the inevitable consequences for innocent lives. As BBC News reported, he has vowed to bring down the government by force. He has transformed peaceful protests into violent confrontations, causing suffering on a massive scale. It is crucial to differentiate between political dissent and incitement to violence. Political opposition is a fundamental right in any democracy, but his actions extend far beyond mere disagreement with the government. His rhetoric is deliberately designed to create instability, division, and fear. When he declares that “we will bring the government to its knees” or insists that “the protests will not stop until the government listens,” he is not calling for peaceful protests. He is inciting insurrection and encouraging violent actions against the state. His repeated promises to extend these protests for months, as reported by AfricaNews, are an invitation for further lawlessness. His words have fueled looting, vandalism, and attacks on public institutions, creating an atmosphere of chaos and fear. Instead of seeking dialogue, he rallied his followers to escalate the violence, emboldening them to confront the state with no regard for the safety of the general population. This is not simply political opposition — it is a deliberate effort to destabilise the nation. The damage is already evident. The Club of Mozambique reported that his supporters have clashed violently with security forces, disrupting key sectors of the economy, including the operations of major corporations such as South32 Ltd. and the closure of vital border crossings, including the main one with South Africa. The international community must understand that these actions are not about defending the rights of the people; they are about creating an environment of chaos to achieve political goals. The humanitarian toll of this violence cannot be overstated, and the international community must take immediate action to hold those responsible for inciting it accountable. It is vital to remember that peaceful transitions of political power are possible, even during the most challenging times. Global examples of such transitions demonstrate that democracies can resolve political disputes without resorting to violence. In the UK, for example, Rishi Sunak left office peacefully as Prime Minister in 2024, following his defeat to Keir Starmer’s Labour Party in the general election. Sunak’s resignation led to a smooth transfer of power, with Starmer assuming leadership without conflict. Similarly, in the United States, President Joe Biden accepted the results of the 2024 election, reinforcing the idea that power can change hands peacefully through democratic means. Despite challenges and claims of fraud, Biden chose to focus on unity, advocating for progress instead of division. Also, in Zambia, President Edgar Lungu’s peaceful exit in 2021 after losing the election to Hakainde Hichilema showed that democratic institutions and respect for the will of the people can guide a country through contested elections. In Botswana, under President Mokgweetsi Masisi, political transitions have consistently been peaceful and handled with cooperation and legal order. In Brazil, President Lula da Silva’s return to power in 2023 was also marked by peaceful democratic processes, despite significant opposition. These examples stand in stark contrast to the current situation in Mozambique, where respect for democratic norms is under threat. Rather than following the examples of peaceful transitions seen in these countries, the opposition’s call for violent resistance is a dangerous regression. As U.S. President-elect Donald Trump seeks to reshape the global landscape with his renewed focus on securing U.S. markets and reinforcing a world order centred around American interests, he must take a closer look at Mozambique’s ongoing crisis. The unrest in Mozambique is not just a local issue confined to the African continent; it is a global concern that requires immediate attention from global powers, particularly the United States. Trump, who has consistently prioritised U.S. economic and geopolitical interests, must understand that the instability in Mozambique poses far-reaching risks to global peace and security. At the heart of this crisis are Mozambique’s critical mineral resources, including lithium, cobalt, and rare earth elements, which are essential to the manufacturing of technologies powering industries worldwide — from electric vehicles to renewable energy systems. These minerals have become a linchpin in the global transition to clean energy, and any disruption in their supply from Mozambique would send shockwaves through international markets, affecting economies across the globe. But the threat posed by the crisis extends beyond the disruption of supply chains. Mozambique’s instability threatens to destabilise not only its own borders but the entire southern African region. As the conflict deepens, it could spill over into neighbouring countries, creating a wider regional conflict that would strain already fragile political systems and security infrastructures. The ripple effects of such instability could undermine progress made on key global challenges, from combating climate change to addressing poverty and human rights abuses. A destabilised Mozambique could also provide fertile ground for extremist groups and transnational criminal networks, further exacerbating global security concerns. For the United States, which has significant economic and strategic interests in the region, inaction is not an option. Mozambique plays a key role in the broader geopolitical context of Africa, particularly in terms of its energy resources and strategic position in the Indian Ocean. As a major player in global trade and energy markets, the U.S. has a responsibility to lead efforts to address the crisis before it escalates further. The long-term stability of the African continent, and by extension global economic stability, depends on the resolution of this crisis. The United States cannot afford to stand on the sidelines while Mozambique teeters on the brink of civil war. It is not just in the interest of Mozambique but in the interest of global peace and prosperity that this crisis be addressed swiftly and decisively. The U.S., together with international partners, must use diplomatic leverage, humanitarian aid, and, where necessary, targeted sanctions, to bring all parties to the negotiating table. However, these actions must be coupled with a robust commitment to supporting the democratic processes and human rights in Mozambique. Trump’s foreign policy, which has focused on American interests and economic security, must now expand to consider the interconnectedness of global markets and security. Mozambique’s crisis is a reminder that geopolitical stability is not a zero-sum game. The instability of one nation can have profound consequences for many others. A peaceful, democratic Mozambique is in the best interests of not only its citizens but of the global community. The time for inaction is over. Global leadership — especially from the U.S. — is required to ensure that Mozambique’s crisis does not spiral further into chaos. This is not just a matter of regional importance; it is a matter of global urgency. One of the most concerning aspects of the ongoing political crisis in Mozambique is the potential role of foreign influence in exacerbating the violence. Both Russian and Chinese interests are believed to be playing a role in stoking unrest and supporting opposition groups. Moscow and Beijing have been increasing their political, military, and economic presence in Africa, and Mozambique, with its vast natural resources and strategic location, is no exception. Russia’s involvement in Africa is growing, particularly through the deployment of mercenaries and military advisors under the Wagner Group. Moscow has cultivated relationships with governments and opposition groups to gain access to vital resources and to expand its geopolitical footprint. Given Mozambique’s reserves of natural gas, lithium, and other critical minerals, it is not beyond reason to suspect that Russia might be playing a destabilising role in the country’s turmoil. Russian mercenaries have previously been involved in other African nations, contributing to the destabilisation of governments that were less favourable to Russian interests. China, meanwhile, has long been a dominant economic player in Mozambique, investing heavily in infrastructure and energy sectors. China’s growing influence in the country allows it to leverage considerable power over the political landscape. It is conceivable that China might prefer a more stable, yet strategically pliable, government, even if that means tolerating the continuation of government-backed violence. Both Russia and China have vested interests in ensuring that Mozambique remains a stable resource hub, but their methods often involve fostering instability. The increasing foreign meddling in Mozambique underscores that the crisis may not be entirely domestic — it could be part of a larger geopolitical struggle. The role of external actors should be thoroughly investigated, and any interference that exacerbates the violence and undermines Mozambique’s sovereignty must be condemned. Mozambique’s crisis is not only a political and humanitarian issue — it has far-reaching implications for global stability. The country is one of the largest producers of critical minerals, including cobalt, lithium, and rare earth elements — vital for the global energy transition and technologies such as electric vehicles and smartphones. Moreover, Mozambique’s offshore natural gas reserves are crucial for the energy needs of Asia and Europe. If the political unrest continues to escalate, it could disrupt global supply chains for these essential resources, sending shockwaves throughout markets worldwide. In an age where competition for critical minerals is intensifying, instability in Mozambique could have disastrous effects, not only on African economies but also on industries across the globe. Furthermore, the chaos could derail efforts to fight climate change, as renewable energy sectors are heavily reliant on minerals sourced from Mozambique. The international community must recognise that Mozambique’s stability is intertwined with global economic and environmental interests. The country is a linchpin in the global supply of minerals critical for future technologies, and its destabilisation could have severe consequences for both developed and developing nations. As Mozambique’s political and social fabric continues to unravel, the international community cannot remain passive. The United Nations, the African Union, and other global institutions must take decisive action to prevent further escalation. Diplomacy should aim to de-escalate tensions and bring all parties to the negotiating table. But words alone will not suffice — the international community must hold accountable those leaders, both domestic and foreign, whose actions and rhetoric are fueling the violence. In this context, the ICC must play a pivotal role. The court should investigate the fellow who is inciting violence and threatening Mozambique’s fragile peace. Countries and institutions must pressure Mozambique to cooperate with the ICC and allow for a full investigation into these acts of incitement. Mozambique is at a critical crossroads. The government has shown a willingness to engage in electoral reform and peaceful dialogue, but these efforts are being undermined by violent rhetoric. The ICC must act swiftly to investigate his incitement to violence, and the international community must take decisive action to prevent a full-blown humanitarian disaster. The world must send a clear message: Incitement to violence will not be tolerated. Mozambique’s future hangs in the balance, and the time for action is now.Boston police arrest two in connection with drone flights encroaching on Logan Airport

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The assisted dying bill would place “serious logistical problems” on judges and the courts, senior judicial figures have warned. The bill, which will be voted on for the first time on Friday, would require a High Court judge to approve an assisted death. The judge would need to certify that the person deciding to end their life had mental capacity, was free from coercion and had had the application approved by two independent doctors. The role of judges is causing concern among the judiciary, The Times has been told. An analysis of the impact on the judiciary by Sir James Munby, the former head of the family division of the High Court, calculated that the bill would require 34,000 hours of judicial involvement each year,None