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1 2 Bhubaneswar: A growing number of city residents are opting for house parties and farmhouse retreats on New Year's eve instead of the usual lavish celebrations at hotels, restaurants and pubs. Many said they prefer the relaxed vibe of being surrounded by family and close friends, free from the stress of deadlines and expensive food and drinks, as the perfect way to welcome 2025. Smaranika Mishra, a homemaker, said, "New Year parties have become crowded and commercial. Parties in big hotels no longer care about people's safety, where you find strangers, loud music and so much crowd. I would rather spend my New Year's Eve with family and friends in a safe atmosphere, preferably amid nature, far from the madding crowd." Away from the hustle and bustle, several farmhouses on the outskirts of Bhubaneswar, Cuttack, Puri and Konark have become a first choice for revellers to organise family get-togethers. "We booked the last weekend of Dec at a farmhouse where five families will spend quality time. The venue has a serene atmosphere with gardens and a bonfire, and children can go fishing, visit the sunset point, and have local and traditional food and farm-fresh vegetables. It will provide a much-needed break from city life," said Pinky Patnaik, a govt employee. The shift from hotels to farmhouses reflects a desire for meaningful connections and a more relaxed atmosphere as people prioritise spending time with loved ones. Apart from the calm and serene atmosphere, farmhouses offer cottages and double rooms for night stays, bonfires, games, fishing, music/karaoke and local and traditional cuisine. For one person, including three major meals and other facilities like a night stay, the cost is between Rs 2,500 and Rs 3,500, while some farmhouses charge between Rs 9,000 and Rs 15,000 per day. There are around 50 such farmhouses available for rent for the year-end. Owner of a farmhouse near Chandaka said, "Guests want a quieter New Year amid nature, in a peaceful atmosphere, away from the noise in hotels with extravagant shows. The pandemic taught people to value close-knit gatherings, and this trend seems to be continuing. We are fairly booked in Dec and Jan." Concern for the environment, ecology and taking a break from gadgets and technology is also bringing many to farmhouses. "I want my children and their friends to experience a rustic atmosphere, away from gadgets and technology. Parties generate so much waste. Family parties and farmhouses make them more responsible and personal."South Africa – President Cyril Ramaphosa has dispatched his top envoy, Sydney Mufamadi, to Mozambique as the country grapples with violent protests following contentious election results. The unrest erupted after Mozambique’s Constitutional Council confirmed the ruling FRELIMO party’s victory in the October elections despite acknowledging significant electoral irregularities. The ruling revised FRELIMO candidate Daniel Chapo’s victory margin from 71% to 65%, while opposition candidate Venâncio Mondlane’s share rose to 24% from 20%. Mondlane denounced the decision as legitimizing election fraud, rejected the results, and called for mass protests, sparking chaos across the country. Since October 21, over 100 deaths have been reported as demonstrations escalated in Maputo and other regions. Protesters have clashed with police, who responded with tear gas, while fires, barricades, and destruction have brought parts of the capital to a standstill. Adding to the turmoil, Mondlane has gone into exile, citing threats to his life following the murders of two close aides. From abroad, he has rallied his supporters to initiate a national shutdown, intensifying tensions. Mufamadi’s visit to Maputo underscores South Africa’s commitment to fostering stability in Mozambique. Although details of his meetings remain undisclosed, the envoy reiterated South Africa’s readiness to support Mozambique during this challenging time. The intervention comes as the Southern African Development Community (SADC) also signals its willingness to mediate. Calls for regional assistance have mounted amid fears that the crisis could destabilize neighbouring countries. Mozambique’s post-election unrest highlights the fragility of its political landscape, with the ruling party accused of clinging to power at the expense of democratic processes. As protests continue, all eyes are on regional powers like South Africa to broker peace and prevent further bloodshed.NexPoint Real Estate Finance, Inc. Announces Series A Preferred Stock Dividend

Punjab presents slew of demands to boost infra at pre-budget meeting with SitharamanPunjab presents slew of demands to boost infra at pre-budget meeting with SitharamanMany households across Ireland are feeling the pinch from the ongoing cost of living crisis and are trying to save money where possible. With energy costs skyrocketing, some people have been air-drying clothes rather than using the tumble dryer. However, Ireland’s unpredictable weather often makes outdoor drying impossible, leaving indoor drying as the only alternative. While this may seem like an easy solution, it comes with a significant downside: the risk of mould. This can not only harm the health of both humans and pets but also lead to costly damage to walls, ceilings and window sills. Experts in air quality have shared some insights on how mould forms and how to combat it. Mould thrives in damp, poorly ventilated environments, where fungal spores can settle and grow. While most adults can tolerate these spores without issue, they can pose serious risks to babies, young children and individuals with respiratory conditions or weakened immune systems. The presence of mould can lead to a variety of health problems, including allergies, skin irritation, chronic colds and worsening conditions like asthma and eczema. To prevent mould from taking hold, it’s essential to reduce the humidity in your home. READ MORE: Ireland weather: Major 'snow storm' threat as maps show mega -9C Arctic blast and timeline issued READ MORE: Experts warn against pouring Baileys down the sink after Christmas celebrations Simple actions like opening windows and doors can help air circulation, while extractor fans in bathrooms and kitchens can mitigate steam from showers or cooking. Additionally, using a dehumidifier in moderation can be an effective way to combat excess moisture. Jenny Turner, Property Manager at Insulation Express, warns that drying wet clothes indoors can worsen existing mould problems, Hull Live reports. She advises always keeping a window open in the room to allow moisture to escape. She also recommends using a dehumidifier, which can remove up to 7 litres of moisture from the air each day in damp conditions. While this might seem counterintuitive, investing in a dehumidifier can save money in the long run by preventing costly mould damage. For those looking for a more advanced option, the Pro Breeze 4L dehumidifier comes with an app which allows you to monitor the current moisture level in your home, set a target humidity level, 24 hour on/off timer or select from three operating modes including auto, continuous dehumidification and internal drying. Over 500 of these have been bought on Amazon in the last month and they are rated an impressive 4.4 out of 5 stars from almost 7,000 reviews. For more information or to buy for €277, click here . For a more budget-friendly solution, there are simpler, non-electric dehumidifying options available. Stores like Woodies, Lenehans, SuperValu, Tesco and Dealz offer plastic dehumidifier pots for as little as €1.50. These pots trap moisture in the air and reduce condensation on windows, which is common when drying clothes indoors. Another affordable option is placing bowls of rock salt on window sills, as salt absorbs moisture and helps keep the air dry. Jenny explained: "For a dehumidifying effect without the use of electricity, try a combination of open windows and plastic window dehumidifier pots which can trap and collect moisture in the air. These inexpensive plastic pots can help to eliminate the risk of condensation on windows which can occur from drying wet clothes inside, adding to the damp atmosphere. Another cheap trick to draw moisture away from walls and windows is to place bowls of rock salt on the window sill when drying clothes, as this will help to absorb excess moisture in the air." Meanwhile, Francesca Brady, CEO and co-founder of AirRated, has highlighted the growing issue of mould in homes as part of a larger conversation about the condition of buildings. She said: "It's important that this is covered in the media, everyone needs a basic level of understanding of what sort of environments are unhealthy spaces for us to live and work in. That being said, there is a much larger issue surrounding building stock that is not-fit-for-purpose, where it will take more than changing behaviours to improve these settings." Join the Irish Mirror’s breaking news service on WhatsApp. Click this link to receive breaking news and the latest headlines direct to your phone. We also treat our community members to special offers, promotions, and adverts from us and our partners. If you don’t like our community, you can check out any time you like. If you’re curious, you can read our Privacy Notice .

A secretary bought three shares of her company's stock for $60 each in 1935. Grace Groner reinvested her dividends for 75 years, and her stake ballooned to $7.2 million. Her employer, Abbott, shared Groner's story in a recent website post. A secretary paid $180 in 1935 for three shares of her employer's stock. By the time she died in 2010, her investment had mushroomed to $7.2 million . Advertisement Abbott, a pharmaceutical company, gave a shout-out to the former employee in a recent post on its website. "As we celebrate 101 years of dividend payouts, we're remembering one of the earliest Abbott investing success stories, that of Grace Groner , who worked as a secretary at Abbott for over 40 years," the post reads. Advertisement "In 1935, Groner bought three shares of Abbott stock for $60 each. She consistently reinvested her dividend payments and quietly amassed a $7.2 million fortune. Groner passed away in 2010, at the age of 100, and it was only then that her multimillion-dollar estate was discovered." She gifted her entire fortune to a foundation she'd established in support of her alma mater, Lake Forest College. She earmarked the money to finance internships, international study, and service projects for students. Groner hung onto her Abbott shares for over 75 years without selling a single one, despite several stock splits, and used her dividends to bolster her stake. Advertisement She was likely able to leave her nest egg intact for so long because of her simple lifestyle. She lived in a one-bedroom house, bought her clothes at rummage sales, and didn't own a car, the Chicago Tribune reported in 2010. Her shares would be worth north of $28 million today, excluding dividends, given that Abbott's stock price has roughly quadrupled since 2010. The drugmaker's market value has risen to around $200 billion, meaning it now rivals Disney, PepsiCo, and Morgan Stanley in size.Janet Nguyen to be sworn in as First District county supervisor next week

Netflix 'totally ready' for XMas NFL games, WWETAMPA, Fla. (AP) — Two-time Pro Bowl linebacker Shaquil Barrett is rejoining the Tampa Bay Buccaneers. The Bucs signed the two-time Super Bowl champion on Saturday, while also announcing safety Jordan Whitehead was activated from injured reserve ahead of Sunday’s home game against the Carolina Panthers. Barrett spent five seasons with Tampa Bay from 2019 to 2023. He led the NFL with a franchise-record 19 1-2 sacks in his first year with the Bucs, then helped the team win its second Super Bowl title the following season. In all, Barrett started 70 games with Tampa Bay, amassing 45 sacks, 15 forced fumbles, two fumble recoveries and three interceptions. He was released last winter in a salary cap move, signed a one-year contract with the Miami Dolphins in free agency, then abruptly announced his retirement on social media before the start of training camp in July. Barrett, who also won a Super Bowl during a four-season stint with the Denver Broncos, decided to unretire last month. He signed with the Bucs after clearing waivers earlier in the week. Whitehead has missed the past four games with a pectoral injury. His return comes of the heels of the Bucs placing safety Christian Izien on IR with a pectoral injury. On Saturday, the Bucs also activated rookie wide receiver Kameron Johnson from IR and elevated punter Jack Browning to the active roster from the practice squad. ___ NFL: https://apnews.com/hub/nfl The Associated Press

Amtrak trains between New York and Philadelphia were temporarily suspended for hours Sunday morning due to downed overhead wires blocking the tracks. The delays and cancellations come just days before the Christmas, Hanukkah and Kwanzaa holidays on Amtrak's busiest train route. Amtrak temporarily suspended all train service between New York and Philadelphia Sunday morning due to downed overhead power wires that were blocking the tracks. > 24/7 San Diego news stream: Watch NBC 7 free wherever you are The delays and cancellations come at one of the busiest travel periods of the year, just days before the Christmas, Hanukkah and Kwanzaa holidays and as the region faces freezing temperatures. The travel suspension first occurred around 7 a.m. ET, with estimates of resumption only around noon. As of 1:30 p.m., Amtrak said they had restored two of the four tracks for service through the impacted route, with trains running at reduced speeds and delays averaging an hour. At least three trains were canceled, according to Amtrak's X updates . The Northeast Corridor is Amtrak's most-traveled route, spanning a trail of major East Coast cities from Boston to Washington, D.C. "We are doing our best to move trains in time table order in hopes of minimizing delays," Amtrak said in a statement . Money Report Donald Trump says Vladimir Putin wants a meeting as soon as possible about the war with Ukraine What Google's quantum computing breakthrough Willow means for the future of bitcoin and other cryptos Amtrak will waive additional charges for customers who change their reservation, and most customers were accommodated on other trains, according to a spokesperson. The downed wires also impacted some NJ Transit trains, according to an alert . The region is also facing the coldest temperatures for this time of year in two years, according to the National Weather Service . Also on CNBC What a government shutdown could mean for air travel From Nike to Intel, CEO departures at U.S. companies hit a record this year Tesla reverses losses to turn higher in a volatile week for the EV stockThe masked gunman who stalked and killed UnitedHealthcare CEO Brian Thompson outside a Manhattan hotel used ammunition emblazoned with the words “deny,” “defend” and “depose,” a law enforcement official said Thursday. The gunman is still at large and a manhunt is underway. Here's the latest: Water bottle and protein bar wrapper may hold clues to the shooter’s identity Just minutes before the shooting, the suspect was seen on surveillance footage purchasing the two items from a nearby Starbucks. Both the water bottle and protein bar wrapper were later recovered from a trash can in the vicinity of the killing, according to a police spokesperson. They’ve been sent to the city’s medical examiner for expedited fingerprint testing. Tips about the shooting, many unfounded, are pouring in through a police hotline As the suspect remained at large Thursday afternoon, New York police were sorting through a growing number of leads coming in through a public hotline. Many have been unfounded, including a tip from a commuter who claimed to have spotted the shooter on a Long Island Rail Road train Wednesday evening. Police searched the train, but found no sign of the gunman. Members of the public have also provided police with several different names of people who bear a resemblance to the gunman — though they have yet to confirm the shooter’s identity. NYPD spokesperson Carlos Nieves urged anyone with information to contact the department “even if it seems trivial.” “We ask you to call the tip line because that little piece of information could be the missing piece of the puzzle that ties everything together,” he said. Anger and vitriol against health insurers filled social media in the wake of Thompson’s killing Users’ reactions — and in many cases jokes — populated comment sections teeming with frustration toward health insurers broadly and UnitedHealthcare in particular. “I would be happy to help look for the shooter but vision isn’t covered under my healthcare plan,” one comment read on Instagram. “Thoughts and prior authorizations!” wrote another user. Police searched Upper West Side hostel seen in new images Images released by police of a person they say is wanted for questioning in connection with the shooting match the lobby of the HI New York City hostel on Manhattan’s Upper West Side. Both feature a black-and-white checkered floor and a distinctive bench in the shape of a semicircle. Matheus Taranto, a guest at the hostel who’s visiting from Brazil, says he saw police at the lodging Wednesday evening. He said an officer wouldn’t let him access a bathroom where he wanted to brush his teeth. “I asked why, he was like, no, nothing happened,” said Taranto, 24. He didn’t connect the dots with the shooting until later. Police in Minnesota say they believe bomb threat against Thompson’s home was a hoax In Minnesota, police in the Minneapolis suburb of Maple Grove, where Thompson lived, said Thursday they believe a bomb threat on Wednesday night was a hoax. Maple Grove police put out a statement Thursday saying a “suspected swatting investigation” was underway. The department said it received a report of a bomb threat directed at two addresses around 7 p.m. CT Wednesday. The Minneapolis Bomb Squad and the Hennepin County Sheriff’s Office assisted, but investigators found no suspicions devices or other items. “The case is considered an active investigation, while the incident appears to be a hoax. No further comments will be made at this time,” the police statement said. Police reports provided to The Associated Press by the department show that officers made contact with family members at one of the homes and were told they had seen nothing suspicious and had received no direct threats. In Minnesota, authorities investigate reported bomb threat against Brian Thompson’s home Back in Thompson’s home state of Minnesota, authorities were investigating a bomb threat that reportedly was made against his home Wednesday night, after his death. It was first reported by TMZ. City Prosecutor Andrew Draper confirmed to The Associated Press via email Thursday that he received an email Wednesday night “regarding a bomb threat. I reported it to the Maple Grove Police Department and do not have any additional information.” Maple Grove police officials did not immediately respond to requests for details Thursday. Local ATF spokesperson Ashlee Sherrill said: “ATF was made aware of the incident in Maple Grove last night, but no ATF resources were deployed. We are unable to confirm any further details.” A local FBI spokesperson did not immediately respond to a request for information on the FBI’s involvement in the investigation. Words on ammunition were written in marker, AP source says The words emblazoned on the ammunition used in the shooting – “deny,” “defend” and “depose” – were written in permanent marker, according to a law enforcement official. The official wasn’t authorized to publicly discuss details of the ongoing investigation and spoke to The Associated Press on the condition of anonymity. — Jake Offenhartz What’s known about the search As of Thursday morning, police were still searching for the shooter. They released new photos of a person they said is wanted for questioning in connection with the shooting. The images match the lobby of the HI New York City hostel on Manhattan’s Upper West Side, including its black-and-white checkered floor and a distinctive bench in the shape of a semi-circle. An employee at the hostel said police had visited but declined to provide further information. Danielle Brumfitt, a spokesperson for the lodging, said in an emailed statement that they are cooperating with the NYPD but can’t comment due to the active investigation. According to the official who spoke to AP about the ammunition messaging, investigators are running DNA and fingerprint analysis on items found near the shooting, including a water bottle, that they believe the suspect may have discarded. Additionally, they’re looking into whether the suspect had pre-positioned a bike as part of an escape plan. What is the criticism of insurers? Doctors and patients have become particularly frustrated with prior authorizations, which are requirements that an insurer approve surgery or care before it happens. UnitedHealthcare was named in an October report detailing how the insurer’s prior authorization denial rate for some Medicare Advantage patients has surged in recent years. The report from the U.S. Senate Permanent Subcommittee on Investigations also named rivals Humana and CVS. Insurers say tactics like prior authorization are needed to limit unnecessary care and help control spiraling medical costs. Frustrations extend beyond the coverage of care. Expensive breakthrough medications to slow Alzheimer’s disease or help with obesity are frequently not covered or have coverage limits. How do Americans feel about insurers? In the U.S. health care system, patients get coverage through a mix of private insurers such as UnitedHealthcare and government-funded programs such as Medicaid and Medicare. That can prove particularly frustrating for doctors and patients because coverage often varies by insurer. Polls reflect those frustrations with the U.S. health care system in general and insurance companies in particular. About two-thirds of Americans said health insurance companies deserve “a lot of blame” for high health care costs, according to a KFF poll conducted in February . Thompson’s wife said her husband had received previous threats Thompson’s wife, Paulette Thompson, told NBC News that he told her “there were some people that had been threatening him.” She didn’t have details but suggested the threats may have involved issues with insurance coverage. Eric Werner, the police chief in the Minneapolis suburb where Thompson lived, said his department had not received any reports of threats against the executive. Words on ammo in CEO shooting echo common phrase on insurer tactics: Delay, deny, defend A message left at the scene of an insurance executive’s fatal shooting — “deny,” “defend” and “depose” — echoes a phrase commonly used to describe insurer tactics to avoid paying claims. The three words were emblazoned on the ammunition a masked gunman used to kill UnitedHealthcare CEO Brian Thompson , a law enforcement official told The Associated Press on Thursday. They’re similar to the phrase “delay, deny, defend” — the way some attorneys describe how insurers deny services and payment, and the title of a 2010 book that was highly critical of the industry. Police haven’t officially commented on the wording or any connection between them and the common phrase. But Thompson’s shooting and the messages on the ammunition have sparked outrage on social media and elsewhere, reflecting a deepening frustration Americans have over the cost and complexity of getting care. ▶ Read more about the messaging left behind by the shooter New photos released by the NYPD The New York Police Department released photos Thursday morning, asking for the public’s assistance in identifying the individual pictured. Police say the person is wanted for questioning in connection with the shooting of the UnitedHealthcare CEO. UnitedHealthcare’s history of claim denials A Senate panel has been investigating how frequently three major insurers, including UnitedHealthcare, deny care to patients who are enrolled in Medicare Advantage plans. It has also investigated the use of artificial intelligence in deny those claims. Medicare Advantage is the private version of Medicare, which provides health insurance to millions of older Americans. The Senate’s Permanent Subcommittee’s report released earlier this year found that as UnitedHealthcare relied more on its automated system to review claims denials increased for post-acute treatment, which includes nursing home or rehabilitation care. The insurer denied nearly a quarter of claims, a rate that doubled over just a two-year period from 2020 to 2022. What’s known about the suspected shooter? Joseph Kenny, the NYPD chief of detectives, says the shooter wore a black face mask, black-and-white sneakers and a distinctive gray backpack. He arrived outside the hotel about five minutes before UnitedHealthcare CEO Brian Thompson did, then waited and ignored other pedestrians before he approached Thompson from behind. After the assailant began to fire, his 9 mm pistol jammed but he quickly fixed it and kept firing, Kenny said, another sign of the shooter’s professionalism. “From watching the video, it does seem that he’s proficient in the use of firearms as he was able to clear the malfunctions pretty quickly,” Kenny said. Hunt for the shooting suspect brought New York police to at least two hostels Thursday morning The hostels were on Manhattan’s Upper West Side and police were following a tip that the suspect may have stayed at one of the residences, according to a law enforcement official briefed on the investigation. The official requested anonymity because they weren’t authorized to discuss the ongoing search. According to an employee of Kama Central Park, two detectives arrived at the hostel at 7 a.m. Thursday with a photo of the shooter and asked staff if they recognized the man. They did not, the employee said, and the detectives left soon after. An employee at the nearby HI New York City hostel also confirmed that police had visited the location Thursday, but declined to provide further information. — Jake Offenhartz New York Mayor Adams says he’s ‘never seen a silencer before’ New York Mayor Eric Adams said Thursday the shooter used a silencer — something he’d never encountered in his 22 years as a police officer. “In all of my years in law enforcement I have never seen a silencer before,” Adams, a retired NYPD captain, said in an appearance on MSNBC’s “Morning Joe.” “And so that was really something that was shocking to us all.” Deny,’ ‘defend’ and ‘depose’: Ammunition used in CEO’s killing had writing on it, AP source says The masked gunman used ammunition emblazoned with the words “deny,” “defend” and “depose,” a law enforcement official said Thursday. The official was not authorized to publicly discuss details of the ongoing investigation and spoke to The Associated Press on the condition of anonymity. The words on the ammunition may have been a reference to strategies insurance companies use to try to avoid paying claims. Investigators recovered several 9 mm shell casings from outside the hotel, NYPD Chief of Detectives Joseph Kenny had said earlier. — Mike Balsamo, Jake Offenhartz and Michael R. Sisak Just getting up to speed? Start here The chief executive of UnitedHealthcare, one of the nation’s largest insurers, was killed Wednesday in midtown Manhattan in what police described as a targeted attack by a shooter outside a hotel where the company was holding a conference. ▶ Read more about the key things to know about the fatal attack The Associated Press

ALBUQUERQUE, N.M. (AP) — Josh Hoover passed for four touchdowns to help TCU beat Louisiana-Lafayette 34-3 on Saturday in the New Mexico Bowl. Hoover was 20 for 32 for 252 yards with an interception. Eric McAlister had eight catches for 87 yards and a TD for the Horned Frogs (9-4). TCU's defense also had a solid day, holding Louisiana-Lafayette (10-4) to 209 yards, including 61 on the game’s final possession. Ben Wooldridge was 7-for-20 passing for 61 yards for the Ragin’ Cajuns. He also threw an interception. The Horned Frogs put together a fast start. Hoover found DJ Rogers for a 3-yard TD pass, capping an 11-play, 75-yard drive on the game's opening possession. After Lou Groza Award winner Kenneth Almendares missed a 54-yard field goal for Louisiana-Lafayette, TCU went right back to work. McAlister's 1-yard touchdown reception finished a 10-play, 63-yard drive and gave the Horned Frogs a 14-0 lead in the first quarter. Kyle Lemmermann kicked two field goals and JP Richardson added a 20-yard touchdown reception as TCU opened a 27-0 halftime lead. Takeaways TCU: Two years removed from an appearance in the national championship game, the Horned Frogs turned in a strong performance after going 5-7 last season. They scored on their first four possessions against the Cajuns. and held a 27-0 halftime lead. Louisiana-Lafayette: It was a rough afternoon for the Cajuns. Almendares made a 24-yarder in the fourth quarter to account for their only points. UP NEXT TCU opens the 2025 season Aug. 30 at North Carolina in coach Bill Belichick’s debut with the Tar Heels. Louisiana-Lafayette opens at home against Rice on Aug. 30. Get poll alerts and updates on the AP Top 25 throughout the season. Sign up here . AP college football: https://apnews.com/hub/ap-top-25-college-football-poll and https://apnews.com/hub/college-footballThe Latest: Police search for man who killed UnitedHealthcare CEO, new photos of suspect released The masked gunman who stalked and killed UnitedHealthcare CEO Brian Thompson outside a Manhattan hotel used ammunition emblazoned with the words “deny,” “defend” and “depose,” a law enforcement official said Thursday. Canadian Press Dec 5, 2024 1:06 PM Share by Email Share on Facebook Share on X Share on LinkedIn Print Share via Text Message This still image from surveillance video obtained by the Associated Press shows the suspect, left, sought in the the killing of UnitedHealthcare CEO Brian Thompson, center, outside a Manhattan hotel where the health insurer was holding an investor conference, Wednesday, Dec. 4, 2024. (AP Photo) The masked gunman who stalked and killed UnitedHealthcare CEO Brian Thompson outside a Manhattan hotel used ammunition emblazoned with the words “deny,” “defend” and “depose,” a law enforcement official said Thursday. The gunman is still at large and a manhunt is underway. Here's the latest: Water bottle and protein bar wrapper may hold clues to the shooter’s identity Just minutes before the shooting, the suspect was seen on surveillance footage purchasing the two items from a nearby Starbucks. Both the water bottle and protein bar wrapper were later recovered from a trash can in the vicinity of the killing, according to a police spokesperson. They’ve been sent to the city’s medical examiner for expedited fingerprint testing. Tips about the shooting, many unfounded, are pouring in through a police hotline As the suspect remained at large Thursday afternoon, New York police were sorting through a growing number of leads coming in through a public hotline. Many have been unfounded, including a tip from a commuter who claimed to have spotted the shooter on a Long Island Rail Road train Wednesday evening. Police searched the train, but found no sign of the gunman. Members of the public have also provided police with several different names of people who bear a resemblance to the gunman — though they have yet to confirm the shooter’s identity. NYPD spokesperson Carlos Nieves urged anyone with information to contact the department “even if it seems trivial.” “We ask you to call the tip line because that little piece of information could be the missing piece of the puzzle that ties everything together,” he said. Anger and vitriol against health insurers filled social media in the wake of Thompson’s killing Users’ reactions — and in many cases jokes — populated comment sections teeming with frustration toward health insurers broadly and UnitedHealthcare in particular. “I would be happy to help look for the shooter but vision isn’t covered under my healthcare plan,” one comment read on Instagram. “Thoughts and prior authorizations!” wrote another user. Police searched Upper West Side hostel seen in new images Images released by police of a person they say is wanted for questioning in connection with the shooting match the lobby of the HI New York City hostel on Manhattan’s Upper West Side. Both feature a black-and-white checkered floor and a distinctive bench in the shape of a semicircle. Matheus Taranto, a guest at the hostel who’s visiting from Brazil, says he saw police at the lodging Wednesday evening. He said an officer wouldn’t let him access a bathroom where he wanted to brush his teeth. “I asked why, he was like, no, nothing happened,” said Taranto, 24. He didn’t connect the dots with the shooting until later. Police in Minnesota say they believe bomb threat against Thompson’s home was a hoax In Minnesota, police in the Minneapolis suburb of Maple Grove, where Thompson lived, said Thursday they believe a bomb threat on Wednesday night was a hoax. Maple Grove police put out a statement Thursday saying a “suspected swatting investigation” was underway. The department said it received a report of a bomb threat directed at two addresses around 7 p.m. CT Wednesday. The Minneapolis Bomb Squad and the Hennepin County Sheriff’s Office assisted, but investigators found no suspicions devices or other items. “The case is considered an active investigation, while the incident appears to be a hoax. No further comments will be made at this time,” the police statement said. Police reports provided to The Associated Press by the department show that officers made contact with family members at one of the homes and were told they had seen nothing suspicious and had received no direct threats. In Minnesota, authorities investigate reported bomb threat against Brian Thompson’s home Back in Thompson’s home state of Minnesota, authorities were investigating a bomb threat that reportedly was made against his home Wednesday night, after his death. It was first reported by TMZ. City Prosecutor Andrew Draper confirmed to The Associated Press via email Thursday that he received an email Wednesday night “regarding a bomb threat. I reported it to the Maple Grove Police Department and do not have any additional information.” Maple Grove police officials did not immediately respond to requests for details Thursday. Local ATF spokesperson Ashlee Sherrill said: “ATF was made aware of the incident in Maple Grove last night, but no ATF resources were deployed. We are unable to confirm any further details.” A local FBI spokesperson did not immediately respond to a request for information on the FBI’s involvement in the investigation. Words on ammunition were written in marker, AP source says The words emblazoned on the ammunition used in the shooting – “deny,” “defend” and “depose” – were written in permanent marker, according to a law enforcement official. The official wasn’t authorized to publicly discuss details of the ongoing investigation and spoke to The Associated Press on the condition of anonymity. — Jake Offenhartz What’s known about the search As of Thursday morning, police were still searching for the shooter. They released new photos of a person they said is wanted for questioning in connection with the shooting. The images match the lobby of the HI New York City hostel on Manhattan’s Upper West Side, including its black-and-white checkered floor and a distinctive bench in the shape of a semi-circle. An employee at the hostel said police had visited but declined to provide further information. Danielle Brumfitt, a spokesperson for the lodging, said in an emailed statement that they are cooperating with the NYPD but can’t comment due to the active investigation. According to the official who spoke to AP about the ammunition messaging, investigators are running DNA and fingerprint analysis on items found near the shooting, including a water bottle, that they believe the suspect may have discarded. Additionally, they’re looking into whether the suspect had pre-positioned a bike as part of an escape plan. What is the criticism of insurers? Doctors and patients have become particularly frustrated with prior authorizations, which are requirements that an insurer approve surgery or care before it happens. UnitedHealthcare was named in an October report detailing how the insurer’s prior authorization denial rate for some Medicare Advantage patients has surged in recent years. The report from the U.S. Senate Permanent Subcommittee on Investigations also named rivals Humana and CVS. Insurers say tactics like prior authorization are needed to limit unnecessary care and help control spiraling medical costs. Frustrations extend beyond the coverage of care. Expensive breakthrough medications to slow Alzheimer’s disease or help with obesity are frequently not covered or have coverage limits. How do Americans feel about insurers? In the U.S. health care system, patients get coverage through a mix of private insurers such as UnitedHealthcare and government-funded programs such as Medicaid and Medicare. That can prove particularly frustrating for doctors and patients because coverage often varies by insurer. Polls reflect those frustrations with the U.S. health care system in general and insurance companies in particular. About two-thirds of Americans said health insurance companies deserve “a lot of blame” for high health care costs, according to a KFF poll conducted in February . Thompson’s wife said her husband had received previous threats Thompson’s wife, Paulette Thompson, told NBC News that he told her “there were some people that had been threatening him.” She didn’t have details but suggested the threats may have involved issues with insurance coverage. Eric Werner, the police chief in the Minneapolis suburb where Thompson lived, said his department had not received any reports of threats against the executive. Words on ammo in CEO shooting echo common phrase on insurer tactics: Delay, deny, defend A message left at the scene of an insurance executive’s fatal shooting — “deny,” “defend” and “depose” — echoes a phrase commonly used to describe insurer tactics to avoid paying claims. The three words were emblazoned on the ammunition a masked gunman used to kill UnitedHealthcare CEO Brian Thompson , a law enforcement official told The Associated Press on Thursday. They’re similar to the phrase “delay, deny, defend” — the way some attorneys describe how insurers deny services and payment, and the title of a 2010 book that was highly critical of the industry. Police haven’t officially commented on the wording or any connection between them and the common phrase. But Thompson’s shooting and the messages on the ammunition have sparked outrage on social media and elsewhere, reflecting a deepening frustration Americans have over the cost and complexity of getting care. ▶ Read more about the messaging left behind by the shooter New photos released by the NYPD The New York Police Department released photos Thursday morning, asking for the public’s assistance in identifying the individual pictured. Police say the person is wanted for questioning in connection with the shooting of the UnitedHealthcare CEO. UnitedHealthcare’s history of claim denials A Senate panel has been investigating how frequently three major insurers, including UnitedHealthcare, deny care to patients who are enrolled in Medicare Advantage plans. It has also investigated the use of artificial intelligence in deny those claims. Medicare Advantage is the private version of Medicare, which provides health insurance to millions of older Americans. The Senate’s Permanent Subcommittee’s report released earlier this year found that as UnitedHealthcare relied more on its automated system to review claims denials increased for post-acute treatment, which includes nursing home or rehabilitation care. The insurer denied nearly a quarter of claims, a rate that doubled over just a two-year period from 2020 to 2022. What’s known about the suspected shooter? Joseph Kenny, the NYPD chief of detectives, says the shooter wore a black face mask, black-and-white sneakers and a distinctive gray backpack. He arrived outside the hotel about five minutes before UnitedHealthcare CEO Brian Thompson did, then waited and ignored other pedestrians before he approached Thompson from behind. After the assailant began to fire, his 9 mm pistol jammed but he quickly fixed it and kept firing, Kenny said, another sign of the shooter’s professionalism. “From watching the video, it does seem that he’s proficient in the use of firearms as he was able to clear the malfunctions pretty quickly,” Kenny said. Hunt for the shooting suspect brought New York police to at least two hostels Thursday morning The hostels were on Manhattan’s Upper West Side and police were following a tip that the suspect may have stayed at one of the residences, according to a law enforcement official briefed on the investigation. The official requested anonymity because they weren’t authorized to discuss the ongoing search. According to an employee of Kama Central Park, two detectives arrived at the hostel at 7 a.m. Thursday with a photo of the shooter and asked staff if they recognized the man. They did not, the employee said, and the detectives left soon after. An employee at the nearby HI New York City hostel also confirmed that police had visited the location Thursday, but declined to provide further information. — Jake Offenhartz New York Mayor Adams says he’s ‘never seen a silencer before’ New York Mayor Eric Adams said Thursday the shooter used a silencer — something he’d never encountered in his 22 years as a police officer. “In all of my years in law enforcement I have never seen a silencer before,” Adams, a retired NYPD captain, said in an appearance on MSNBC’s “Morning Joe.” “And so that was really something that was shocking to us all.” Deny,’ ‘defend’ and ‘depose’: Ammunition used in CEO’s killing had writing on it, AP source says The masked gunman used ammunition emblazoned with the words “deny,” “defend” and “depose,” a law enforcement official said Thursday. The official was not authorized to publicly discuss details of the ongoing investigation and spoke to The Associated Press on the condition of anonymity. The words on the ammunition may have been a reference to strategies insurance companies use to try to avoid paying claims. Investigators recovered several 9 mm shell casings from outside the hotel, NYPD Chief of Detectives Joseph Kenny had said earlier. — Mike Balsamo, Jake Offenhartz and Michael R. Sisak Just getting up to speed? Start here The chief executive of UnitedHealthcare, one of the nation’s largest insurers, was killed Wednesday in midtown Manhattan in what police described as a targeted attack by a shooter outside a hotel where the company was holding a conference. ▶ Read more about the key things to know about the fatal attack The Associated Press See a typo/mistake? Have a story/tip? This has been shared 0 times 0 Shares Share by Email Share on Facebook Share on X Share on LinkedIn Print Share via Text Message Get your daily Victoria news briefing Email Sign Up More Health B.C. children's minister stepping away from role after colorectal cancer diagnosis Dec 5, 2024 1:57 PM Anthem Blue Cross Blue Shield reverses decision to put a time limit on anesthesia Dec 5, 2024 1:39 PM Police release new photos as they search for the gunman who killed UnitedHealthcare CEO Dec 5, 2024 1:26 PM

The only man to lead both the FBI and the CIA urged caution to senators who might vote to confirm former Rep. Tulsi Gabbard as director of national intelligence and Kash Patel to lead the FBI, according to a letter sent to senators this week. "I am deeply concerned about the potential nominations of Mr. Kash Patel to lead the FBI and the inclusion of Former Congresswoman Tulsi Gabbard as DNI in intelligence roles," William Webster, who led the FBI during the Carter and Reagan administrations and the CIA after that, said in a letter to senators on Thursday. MORE: Why most of Trump's Cabinet picks will get confirmed by the Senate Webster wrote that Patel's loyalty to Trump may cause problems. "Statements such as 'He’s my intel guy' and his record of executing the president’s directives suggest a loyalty to individuals rather than the rule of law -- a dangerous precedent for an agency tasked with impartial enforcement of justice," said Webster, who turns 101 in March. MORE: Chris Wray's FBI departure won't immediately clear path for Kash Patel: Experts He said that during his tenure at the FBI, he was contacted by the president only twice -- once by President Jimmy Carter, who asked him to investigate an issue, and once when President Ronald Reagan had a question about Nancy Reagan's security. Webster added that Gabbard's "profound lack of intelligence experience and the daunting task of overseeing 18 disparate intelligence agencies further highlight the need for seasoned leadership." "History has shown us the dangers of compromising this independence. When leaders of these organizations become too closely aligned with political figures, public confidence erodes and our nation’s security is jeopardized," he wrote. "Every president deserves appointees they trust, but the selection process must prioritize competence and independence to uphold the rule of law." The letter was first reported by Politico. The Trump transition team defended both Patel and Gabbard to Fox News. "Kash Patel is loyal to the Constitution. He’s worked under Presidents Obama and Trump in key national security roles," said Alex Pfeiffer, a Trump transition team spokesman. MORE: Who is Tulsi Gabbard? Meet Trump's pick for director of national intelligence Alexa Henning, a Trump transition official, also defended Gabbard. "Lt. Col. Gabbard is an active member of the Army and has served in the military for over two decades and in Congress. As someone who has consumed intelligence at the highest levels, including during wartime, she recognizes the importance of partnerships with allies to ensure close coordination to keep the American people safe," she told Fox News.I'm not an only child, but I'm the only one responsible for having kidsDe La Rosa scores 27 points as Columbia tops Fairfield 85-72Selden scores 29, Gardner-Webb takes down Bethune-Cookman 79-64

He is currently going through a tough stretch, having only recorded one assist in his last 11 games, including this afternoon’s game. Pascal Vincent’s team ultimately won the game 3-1. Victory for the 3-1 over Springfield With this win and Cleveland’s loss, Laval is on top of the North Division going into the Christmas break . — Stephane Leroux (@StephRDSJunior) Logan Mailloux is no longer on the Rocket’s power play. Noel Hoefenmayer and Adam Engström are preferred on the two waves today. — Anthony Marcotte (@anthonymarcotte) To see a defenseman who scored 14 goals last year as a rookie being demoted to the second does not bode well... In short, Mailloux needs to get his act together quickly; otherwise, his development could , and that’s not good for anyone. – Very interesting. What do you think? That would be insane — Maxime Truman (@MaximeTruman) – Incredible: a father and son come to blows in Saskatchewan FATHER AND SON CHUCK KNUCKS!! ONLY IN SASKATCHEWAN — Spittin’ Chiclets (@spittinchiclets) – That’s good We’ve got Elves vs. Reindeer for holiday Mites on Ice. — Tom Gulitti (@TomGulittiNHL)Q. I recently retired as a customer service specialist in the healthcare industry. I loved my work, the connection to people and feeling I made a difference. I have been slow to look for volunteer work. When I finally decided to do so, I could not find the right fit. Any suggestions? L.G Great news, you made the decision to volunteer. In addition to doing good for individuals or organizations, volunteering in later life has many personal benefits, and that’s for the volunteer. Here are a few reasons to volunteer: Promotes physical and mental health. We know aging ultimately is a declining and gradual process. Volunteering can counter the risk of decline of one’s physical health, reducing risks of hypertension, cardiovascular disease, cognitive impairment and even mortality. That’s according to the American Journal of Preventive Medicine . The National Institute on Aging reports that volunteering also can affect cognitive aging by keeping the brain engaged, thereby lowering the risk of dementia. Prevents loneliness. Social isolation is a major challenge for many older adults and is considered a public health crisis , according to the U.S. Surgeon General. Volunteering can be part of the solution by providing opportunities to socialize and even make best friends. It can support those suffering from depression. Those who volunteer report their depression is shorter compared to those who do not volunteer, according to the Corporation for National and Community Service . Provides a feeling of purpose. For many, retirement can be a period of relief and at the same time, uncertainty about one’s purpose. In the workplace, purpose typically is well defined. In retirement, not so much. Volunteering can be a reason to get up in the morning, to make a difference or have an opportunity to learn something new. It can help a person feel recharged and needed. Reduces the rate of aging. Individuals age at different rates. According to a study by Associate Professor Cal Halverson at Brown School at Washington University in St. Louis, even a small amount of volunteering is linked to slowing the acceleration of biological aging among retirees, even more than for working folks. Volunteers in the study just aged a bit slower. Bridges the generation gap. Interacting with younger generations provides older adults the opportunity to share life lessons. At the same time, younger generations can offer older adults a new way of looking at life that incudes technology. Respect and affirmation are most often shared by both. Here are a few resources that promote intergenerational relationships. CoGenerate, a nonprofit organization, features new multigenerational initiatives and research. See https://cogenerate.org/ . Then there is Sages and Seekers that connects young people with vetted older mentors for weekly virtual conversations. Eldera is a global virtual village where generations come together to connect, learn from each other, have fun and at the same time, create a better future. Now ask yourself a few questions. What do I love to do? Is it working with older adults, children or those with challenges? Do I prefer an outdoor volunteer experience as opposed to spending time in an office, workroom or even remotely. Do I want a hands-on experience or working at a board or policy level?? How many hours a week or days do I want? Am I comfortable making a commitment? Most communities are rich with volunteer resources. One example is the South Bay, Harbor and Long Beach Volunteer Center. It connects volunteers to over 20 organizations that need and welcome volunteers in areas of gardening, education, those with special needs, history and the arts. Also check out Volunteer Match with opportunities linked to your geographic area. AmeriCorps Seniors , a network of volunteer programs for Americans 55 years and older, is another option. Volunteers work in their community and are engaged in academic tutoring and mentoring, elder care, disaster relief, and more. They also are the umbrella organization for the Foster Grandparent Program, RSVP and Senior Companion Program. And don’t forget to check volunteer opportunities at your local hospital, library, school district, botanical gardens as well as art museums. Use your network. If you know someone who has an interesting volunteer position or experience, meet with that individual and learn about possibilities. Finding the right volunteer position takes research, networking and more than that, it involves taking a risk. Know you have nothing to lose. One thing is clear, whatever you chose, you are bringing your life experience and knowledge with you. So, before you even begin, you are an asset. Stay well, enjoy the holiday season and know, “No one is more cherished in this world than someone who lightens the burden of others.” ~ Joseph Addison, English poet, playwright and politician. (1672-1719). Helen Dennis is a nationally recognized leader on issues of aging and the new retirement with academic, corporate and nonprofit experience. Contact Helen with your questions and comments at Helendenn@gmail.com . Visit Helen at HelenMdennis.com and follow her on facebook.com/SuccessfulAgingCommunityHeavy travel day starts with brief grounding of all American Airlines flights

A brokered ceasefire between and Hezbollah in relies on two key assumptions: the diminished power of Hezbollah as a fighting force and Israel’s restraint in responding to potential ceasefire violations. On , the ceasefire that ended fighting between Hezbollah and Israel early on Wednesday morning is clearly stacked in Israel's favour, and Arab officials and analysts have told Middle East Eye that a depleted Hezbollah was looking for a break. “The ceasefire is an important transaction, but not a transformation. It happened because Israel wanted it and Hezbollah needed it,” Aaron David Miller, a former Middle East negotiator, told MEE. Hezbollah and Israel have both agreed to withdraw their forces from southern Lebanon within 60 days, but unlike the deal that ended their 2006 war, the US’s footprint to police the group’s exit has . The US has also codified Israel’s right to preemptively strike Hezbollah if it believes the group is re-arming. The details of a side letter codifying Israel's rights to respond were confirmed by a senior US official to MEE. The letter gives American backing to Israel to launch strikes on Hezbollah if the group reconstitutes in southern Lebanon, imports weapons, or if Israel says Hezbollah is positioning itself in a way that Israel says is a threat. "The entire deal depends on how much leeway [Prime Minister Benjamin] Netanyahu is willing to give Hezbollah. It is entirely up to him,” Patrick Theros, a former US ambassador to Qatar, told MEE. “Hezbollah is going to try and regain prestige and will slow walk its withdrawal." What makes the deal so shaky is that it leaves several unresolved questions, including whether Hezbollah fighters remaining in their local villages in southern Lebanon constitutes a violation of the ceasefire. Israel has used AI technology to target Hezbollah fighters and has shown it can track their movements. Theros estimates that 35,000 Hezbollah fighters hail from southern Lebanon. Analysts say Israel is likely not to raise the issue with the US and will focus on the withdrawal of missiles and artillery. But if Hezbollah withdraws its heavy weaponry north of the Litani River, it can still station it in the Shia-majority Bekaa Valley, keeping towns in northern Israel within range of long-distance rockets. The ceasefire, on paper, reaffirms previous UN Security Council resolutions that effectively call for Hezbollah’s total disarmament. “The question is how much is Israel willing to let go in terms of violations and how much can Hezbollah absorb. I suspect Hezbollah has been weakened enough not to respond to Israel if it takes preemptive action,” Miller said. The ceasefire, in effect, rests on US assessments that Hezbollah has been weakened enough by Israeli strikes on its senior leadership and arms supplies, and the group will not cross Israel’s red lines. But while Hezbollah's leadership has been dealt severe blows, there is little evidence to categorically assert that it has been depleted as a fighting force. Israel's invasion of southern Lebanon has few achievements to boast. However, analysts say that Hezbollah's ability to fight Israel may come second to its domestic priorities, as the group may be willing to abide by Israel’s hard red lines because its internal position is shaky. After the 2006 war between Israel and Hezbollah, Lebanon’s government sensed weakness and, led by Sunni and Druze political parties, tried to reduce Hezbollah’s sway inside the country. Hezbollah forces took control of parts of Beirut in 2008, sparking street fights between Sunnis and Shias. “Hezbollah definitely needs to reassert itself in Lebanon because it looks so weak right now, but not by opening fire on Israel. It needs to focus on Lebanese internal politics,” Theros said. The US has tried to layer the ceasefire to put distance between Hezbollah and this Israeli military option. US military advisors are being deployed to Lebanon to monitor Hezbollah’s withdrawal from the south, and a Centcom official is expected to chair a committee to enforce the deal, MEE revealed previously. A US defence official also told MEE that the US is deploying additional intelligence, surveillance and reconnaissance capabilities to monitor Hezbollah’s withdrawal, including drones and geospatial intelligence to track the group. The US says it will work with the Lebanese Armed Forces and a beefed-up UN peacekeeping force that is set to include hundreds of new French troops to stop Hezbollah from rearming in the south. But realities on the ground in Lebanon mean the UN and Lebanese army are unlikely to have the heft to counter any Hezbollah violations. The Lebanese army is a multi-confessional force that includes Shia and Sunni Muslims along with Christians. It has been reluctant to use force to disarm Hezbollah, which is Lebanon’s most popular Shia political party and the world’s largest armed non-state actor. “We should assume Hezbollah will try to re-infiltrate southern Lebanon as soon as possible,” Daniel Mouton, a former National Security Council official now at the Atlantic Council, told MEE. Mouton added that if the Lebanese military intervenes, it would be "a recipe for another Lebanese Civil War," adding that "if Unifil does not respond, the Israelis will. But that does not necessarily mean a wider war resumes.” Israel has already taken action against Hezbollah without the group responding. On Wednesday, it arrested four Hezbollah fighters in southern Lebanon, hours after the ceasefire went into effect. “It will be important to watch and see if Israel is forced to strike Hezbollah again in a large-scale manner. If Hezbollah takes it on the chin, it will give us an indication of how badly they have been hurt in the last weeks,” Mouton said.

NoneGemini, Weekly Horoscope, December 29 to January 04, 2025: Week full of social engagements

Rep. Michelle Steel appears to concede to Derek Tran in the 45th congressional district race