By MICHELLE L. PRICE NEW YORK (AP) — Chad Chronister, Donald Trump’s pick to run the Drug Enforcement Administration, said Tuesday he was withdrawing his name from consideration, becoming the second person selected by the president-elect to bow out quickly after being nominated for a position requiring Senate confirmation. Sheriff Chronister, the top law enforcement officer in Hillsborough County, Florida, said in a post on X that he was backing away from the opportunity, which he called “the honor of a lifetime.” “Over the past several days, as the gravity of this very important responsibility set in, I’ve concluded that I must respectfully withdraw from consideration,” Chronister wrote. He did not elaborate, and Trump’s transition team did not immediately respond to a message seeking comment. Chronister follows former Republican congressman Matt Gaetz , Trump’s first pick to serve as attorney general, in withdrawing his name for a post in the administration. Gaetz withdrew following scrutiny over a federal sex trafficking investigation that cast doubt on his ability to be confirmed as the nation’s chief federal law enforcement officer. Trump’s pick of Chronister for the DEA job drew backlash from conservatives, who raised concerns over his actions during the COVID-19 pandemic and his saying that his office “does not engage in federal immigration enforcement activities.” In March 2020, Chronister arrested the pastor of a megachurch who held services with hundreds of people and violated a safer-at-home order in place aimed at limiting the spread of the Covid virus. “Shame on this pastor, their legal staff and the leaders of this staff for forcing us to do our job. That’s not what we wanted to do during a declared state of emergency,” Chronister said at the time. “We are hopeful that this will be a wakeup call.” U.S. Rep. Thomas Massie, R-Ky, was among those airing public complaints, saying Chronister should be “disqualified” for the arrest. Others flagged comments Chronister made in a video about Florida’s immigration laws that he released in 2023 that circulated again online after Trump named him last weekend. Related Articles National Politics | Trump team signs agreement to allow Justice to conduct background checks on nominees, staff National Politics | President-elect Donald Trump’s lawyers urge judge to toss his hush money conviction National Politics | Democrats stick with Schumer as leader, their strategy for countering Trump is far less certain National Politics | Trump vows to block Japanese steelmaker from buying US Steel, pledges tax incentives and tariffs National Politics | Democrats’ outgoing chair says Trump’s win forces party to reassess how it reaches voters In the video, Chronister praised the “rich diversity” of his community and called it “a place where people from all walks of life come together.” He said it was important to note his office “does not engage in federal immigration enforcement activities. We do not target individuals based on their immigration status. That’s the authority of federal agencies.” Trump has made a sweeping crackdown on immigration a central focus of his campaign and his aims for his coming administration. Associated Press writer Adriana Gomez Licon in Fort Lauderdale, Florida contributed to this report.WASHINGTON — Death penalty opponents on Thursday launched a new effort to spare Pittsburgh synagogue shooter Robert Bowers and two others remaining on death row from being executed. Death Penalty Action submitted a letter to the White House signed by almost 450 organizations, asking President Joe Biden to commute the sentences of the three federal inmates facing execution plus four others on military death row. Biden on Monday granted clemency to 37 federal prisoners who were sentenced to death. That left just three people facing execution for federal crimes: Bowers; Dylann Roof — who killed nine worshippers at the Mother Emanuel AME Church in Charleston, S.C., in 2015, and who, like Bowers, espoused white supremacist and bigoted rhetoric before carrying out a mass killing — and Dzhokhar Tsarnaev, convicted for his role in the 2013 Boston Marathon bombing that killed three people. "You said you granted clemency because you wanted to 'prevent the next administration from carrying out executions,'" the letter said. "This gives us hope. Unless you finish the job by granting clemency to the three men remaining on federal death row and extending your mercy to the four men on military death row, you will leave those seven men vulnerable to execution under Donald Trump's administration. This would seem counter to your intent." Bowers was convicted in June 2023 of 63 federal charges and was sentenced to death in the Oct. 27, 2018, shooting at the Squirrel Hill synagogue housing three congregations — Dor Hadash, New Light and Tree of Life. It was the worst antisemitic attack in American history. The call for clemency gained new urgency following Trump's election last month. In the last year of Trump's first term in the White House, 13 federal prisoners were executed — more than in the previous eight decades combined, according to the Federal Bureau of Prisons. The Trump transition team called the commutations "Biden's sick Christmas gift to grieving families." "The danger of leaving the death penalty as an available tool for Donald Trump to use cannot be overstated," said Abraham Bonowitz, executive director of Death Penalty Action and co-founder of L'chaim! Jews Against the Death Penalty. "Donald Trump idolizes dictators and relishes dictator-like power. We are absolutely grateful for what President Biden has done, but we urge him to finish the job. Do not give Trump the power to execute anyone." On Christmas Day, Trump used his Truth Social site to go after the 37 death row inmates whose sentences were commuted, falsely accusing Biden of pardoning them rather than sentencing them to life imprisonment without parole. "To the 37 most violent criminals, who killed, raped, and plundered like virtually no one before them, but were just given, incredibly, a pardon by Sleepy Joe Biden. I refuse to wish a Merry Christmas to those lucky 'souls' but, instead, will say, GO TO HELL!" Trump said. ©2024 PG Publishing Co. Visit at post-gazette.com. Distributed by Tribune Content Agency, LLC.fishing diver 。

By A Correspondent | ZimEye | In a tense and ultimately futile attempt to address Mozambique’s post-election crisis, President Filipe Nyusi’s high-profile meeting with opposition figures failed to gain any traction. The meeting on Monday, intended to involve all four presidential candidates, stalled as Venâncio Mondlane, the main opposition leader and widely viewed by citizens as the legitimate winner of the disputed elections, was absent. The absence of Mondlane, a critical voice in the discussions, left the meeting ineffective. Critics have noted the failure to create an environment conducive to meaningful dialogue. Mondlane’s absense, following the assassination of his lawyer, highlights the heightened risks faced by opposition leaders. The development comes at a time when Zimbabwe’s president Mnangagwa celebrated election win of Chapo and the Frelimo party before the electoral commission had announced the results and at a time when the same (Mnangagwa)’s party members had been caught on camera rigging Mozambique’s elections . The rigging is an execution of the Mnangagwa-Zupco-SADC-Majority-Corpses formula done for the purpose of changing election results. During the meeting, the frustrations over Mondlane’s absence were evident. As one speaker noted, “If the problem is the process, there is reason enough for the candidate who is absent to be here with us.” Despite this acknowledgment, no alternative measures—such as remote participation—were implemented to facilitate his involvement. Efforts to bring the candidates together were further described during the meeting. A participant expressed gratitude for the attempt to gather all voices, stating, “I want first to thank all the efforts of your part in inviting us to be part of the solution of the problems that are experienced after the election.” However, the absence of Mondlane made it clear that this effort would fall short of addressing the nation’s pressing issues. The discussion also emphasized the significance of unity in resolving the crisis, with another speaker stating, “We thought we should be present to find one solution regarding this theme that was raised here.” Yet the absence of the key opposition leader left the gathering without the comprehensive participation needed for progress. As Mozambique’s political impasse deepens, the failure of this meeting underscores the fragility of the current dialogue process. Without Mondlane’s involvement, any resolutions emerging from such discussions risk being dismissed as incomplete and lacking legitimacy. For now, the political crisis remains unresolved, with the stakes for Mozambique’s democracy higher than ever. The Mnangagwa-Zupco-SADC-Majority-Corpse Algorithm Produced 4,912,762 Daniel Chapo Votes. -Mnangagwa’s Systematic Blueprint for Election Rigging in Southern Africa – The Mozambique 2024 Election Case Study- Abstract This video investigation report presents authoritative evidence exposing the Mnangagwa-ZUPCO-SADC-Majority-Corpse formula, a well-documented mechanism for election manipulation in Southern Africa. Using physical findings from investigations by Al Jazeera’s Gold Mafia lead investigator Simba Chikanza and whistleblower Shepherd Yuda (featured by ITV, BBC, and The Guardian), this study focuses on the rigging of Mozambique’s 2024 election. Daniel Chapo was declared the winner with 71% of the vote, using methods operated by Zimbabwe’s President Emmerson Mnangagwa’s administration. The investigation uncovers how state apparatus, regional complicity, and disinformation were deployed to undermine democracy in Mozambique and create non credible election results that include foreign data and tweaks that form the entire 4,9million votes that Daniel Chapo was reported to have won by, findings that dismiss previous reports that suggested that the number of non eligible voters is below 300,000. Southern Africa has become a hotbed for election rigging, as exposed by global investigative journalists and whistleblowers. This paper delves into the Mnangagwa-ZUPCO-SADC-Majority-Corpse formula—a system employed by Zimbabwean President Emmerson Mnangagwa to manipulate elections—and its replication in Mozambique’s 2024 elections, which fraudulently handed victory to Daniel Chapo with 71% of the vote. The investigation, backed by reports from credible sources such as Al Jazeera, ITV, BBC, and The Guardian, reveals how a combination of military involvement, state-controlled logistics, and regional complicity was used to subvert the will of the electorate. 2.1 Mnangagwa’s Philosophy of “Majority Corpses” In public addresses, Mnangagwa has for over 9 years repeatedly referred to election winners as “corpses,” implying that those who emerge victorious in elections are quickly designated the “dead” descriptive. This chilling narrative is part of a broader psychological campaign to delegitimize the chosen popular leaders while normalizing rigging as a norm. 2.2 Election Rigging Logistics: ZUPCO Buses and Military Interference ZUPCO buses, a state-owned transport service in Zimbabwe, have been central to rigging operations. Investigative footage shows these buses transporting individuals to polling stations in Mozambique during both the 2019 and 2024 elections. These operatives were involved in vote-stuffing and ballot manipulation that follows a Mnangagwa algorithmic pattern, that commands that performance numbers of election winners must be lowered in every way possible. Furthermore, Mnangagwa’s spokesperson Chris Mutsvangwa openly admitted in 2017 that the army would be used to “change election results.” This same tactic was replicated in Mozambique, where military presence at polling stations was used to intimidate voters and opposition agents. 2.3 SADC’s Role: Complicity in Electoral Fraud. Regional complicity, particularly through the Southern African Development Community (SADC), has been critical in legitimizing fraudulent elections. Chris Mutsvangwa’s 2023 statement labeling SADC as “our personal project” underscores the extent to which the regional body is used to rubber-stamp rigged elections. Despite overwhelming evidence of fraud in Mozambique’s 2024 election, SADC prematurely declared the process “free and fair.” 3.1 The 71% Victory of Daniel Chapo. Daniel Chapo’s declared 71% victory is devoid of any data substance backing it being a Mnangagwa-ZUPCO-SADC-Majority-Corpse Formula construct. This result is statistically implausible, given not just the formulae used, but widespread reports of opposition support and growing discontent with Frelimo governance. 3.2 Evidence of Manipulation Investigative reports and video evidence confirm the deployment of ZUPCO buses to transport operatives involved in ballot stuffing. Eyewitness testimonies revealed that military personnel barred opposition agents from accessing polling stations and tampered with ballot boxes. Whistleblower Shepherd Yuda, known for exposing rigging tactics in Zimbabwe, provided further evidence linking the same methods to Mozambique’s election. His revelations, corroborated by Al Jazeera, The Guardian, and ITV, detail how Frelimo operatives coordinated with ZANU-PF advisors to execute the rigging plan. 3.3 The Role of Disinformation. Mnangagwa’s infamous rhetoric, branding election winners as “corpses,” was mirrored in the Mozambican government’s post-election narrative. This disinformation campaign sought to delegitimize the opposition leader while justifying the fraudulent results. 3.4 GoldMafia documentary findings. This investigation corroborated by financial institutions of various countries and done by the Al Jazeera Investigative Unit was conducted over 7 years between 2015 and 2023, listing Mozambique as one of the countries where gold reserves have been looted to finance the rigging of elections using Mnangagwa-business partners Ewan McMillan, Alistair Mathias and Kamlesh Pattni’s published formula. It has prominent Mnangagwa’s business partner Kamlesh Pattni announcing a book he has authored to instruct the election rigging formular. “I’ve written books on that, I will give you the book, Ive written on how democracy should work,” Pattni announces. Alistair Mathias says: “in Ghana alone I do $40 million per month out of Ghana, this region I do probably about 500 to a ton again, so I do roughly about $70 – $80 million per month.” We can export from Zambia, we can export from South Africa” Ewan Mcmillan says, “...we have a company in Zambia, Angola, Mozambique, we can export from anywhere.” Kamlesh Pattni says: “We are in Zimbabwe, we are in Malawi, we are in Zambia, we are in DRC Congo, we are in Kenya, Tanzania, Uganda, etc” 3.5 Video footage from the Masvingo Mirror newspaper video broadcasts before Mozambique’s 2019 and 2024 election runs respectively, are clear showing a large group of ZANU PF party supporters being transported by government of Zimbabwe, Zupco buses to polling stations to register for the first a if they are Mozambicans in order to politically assist a party ally Daniel Chapo and his processor, Phillip Nyusi. The video data presented proven by traceable identity documents plus number plates of the government buses, is corroborated across the community of newspapers, and civil and state institituoins in Zimbabwe. 3.6 The video data is also corroborated and confirmed by the ITV and Guardian newspaper election rigging whistleblower, Shepherd Yuda, who first captured rigging being done during Zimbabwe’s 2008 elections. The Mnangagwa-ZUPCO-SADC-Majority-Corpse formula represents a direct assault on democratic principles. Its use in Mozambique underscores a regional trend where authoritarian regimes collaborate to retain power at the expense of electoral integrity. 4.1 Regional Destabilization The formula’s replication across Southern Africa risks entrenching authoritarianism and destabilizing the region. By undermining free and fair elections, these regimes erode public trust in democratic institutions and fuel political unrest. 4.2 SADC’s Credibility Crisis SADC’s complicity in endorsing fraudulent elections diminishes its legitimacy as a regional body. Reform is urgently needed to restore its role as a neutral arbiter of democratic processes. Mozambique’s 2024 election exposes the dangerous exportation of Zimbabwe’s Mnangagwa-ZUPCO-SADC-Majority-Corpse formula. To counter this trend, the following measures are essential: 1. Independent Oversight: The African Union and international organizations must take a more active role in election monitoring to prevent regional complicity in fraud. 2. Accountability Mechanisms: Individuals and institutions implicated in electoral manipulation, including those within SADC, must face sanctions and legal repercussions. 3. Citizen Empowerment: Public awareness campaigns are crucial to educate citizens about their electoral rights and the dangers of authoritarianism. The evidence presented by The Guardian, ITV, and whistleblower Shepherd Yuda provides an irrefutable case for the international community to act against election rigging in Southern Africa. Safeguarding democracy in the region requires a united effort to dismantle the Mnangagwa-ZUPCO-SADC-Majority-Corpse formula. References • Al Jazeera’s Gold Mafia documentary and lead investigator Simba Chikanza. • Shepherd Yuda’s whistleblower testimony on election rigging in Zimbabwe and Mozambique. • Chris Mutsvangwa’s public statements on military involvement and SADC’s complicity. • Video evidence of ZUPCO buses during Mozambique’s 2019 and 2024 elections. • Eyewitness accounts and investigative reports from BBC, ITV, and The Guardian.

Shoppers 'surprised to find' this £39.50 'stylish' and 'unusual' party skirt at Marks & SpencerI was buying motorcycle parts well before eBay was a thing. Back in the day, we had to either visit our local motorcycle shop, find someone with a suitable parts bike, or peruse mail order catalogs to find the parts we needed. Today, eBay carries parts, accessories, and supplies for all major motorcycle brands as well as some obscure brands. Since anyone can sell motorcycle parts on eBay, it's possible to find parts in brand-new condition shipped directly from the manufacturer or the third-party seller's private stock. Other options include "Used" or "Remanufactured" condition. If you're looking to save some money, it could be worth buying pre-owned items on eBay , especially if they're advertised as like-new or refurbished. eBay has an extensive library of listings, encompassing nearly anything you'd need for a motorcycle. You'll find maintenance items such as filters, spark plugs, and supplies to properly clean and lubricate your motorcycle chain . You can even buy a used engine on eBay , although there are a few things you should know before buying motorcycle parts from the popular auction site. Whether you prefer shopping on eBay's website or on a mobile app, you can choose to do so through the main site, or eBay Motors. However, using the eBay Motors app on your smartphone is the quickest, most convenient way to search for the motorcycle parts you need unless you have a laptop in your garage. Whichever route you take, you'll be prompted to create or sign in to an eBay account when you arrive at the site or launch the app. The next step you should take is adding a vehicle to your eBay garage. If you have multiple motorcycles or other vehicles, adding all of them to your eBay garage makes it easy to choose among them. The best part is that eBay will remember all the details of your garage, so it's quicker to find what you need when you come back to look for another part. However, it's important to provide accurate details if you want to avoid the frustration and wasted time of returning the wrong parts. When adding motorcycles or other vehicles to your eBay garage, you'll need to know the exact year, make, model, and sub-model of everything you're adding. While a lot of motorcycle parts are interchangeable across different models, and I hate standing at a parts counter and having some keyboard jockey ask if my truck has air conditioning when I'm buying brake pads as much as anyone, putting all of the vehicle information into eBay one time will save you time later on, I promise. Once your motorcycle is added to your garage, selecting it leads to a prompt to search for parts that fit it. For example, I have a 2023 Kawasaki KLR650 Adventure ABS in my eBay garage, and searching for brake pads returned 60 results. I can filter those results to show U.S. or worldwide suppliers, Condition (fortunately all the brake pads are listed as New), Authorized Sellers, and/or those sellers offering free returns. I can also sort the results in several ways, although sorting by ascending or descending price makes the most sense. On the product listing page, you'll notice some items with a blue tab with a star to the side identifying them as "Top Rated Plus." Top rated plus items come from top-rated sellers offering a money-back return policy that's good for at least 30 days and trackable shipping (handed over to a shipper) within one business day. Once you've selected an item to view, take note of the sellers' rating, shown as a percentage of positive feedback they've received, while the number in parentheses is the volume of feedback overall. This is also a good time to check the sellers' return policy, as it can vary widely. Some may not take returns at all, others have short return windows, and the best allow at least 30 days. Return shipping costs swing from the buyer being 100% responsible to the seller covering all costs. In addition to the sellers' return policy, eBay protects buyers with the eBay Money Back Guarantee . When a buyer requests a return, the seller has three days to respond. After that, and within 30 days of receipt of the product or estimated delivery date for items that don't arrive, eBay will work to get your refund.

Founder of failed crypto lending platform Celsius Network pleads guilty to fraud chargesOn October 22, a longstanding tradition at Indonesia’s Ministry of Defense took on new significance as President Prabowo Subianto handed the role of defense minister over to Sjafrie Sjamsoeddin, a seasoned military leader and former colleague. The event was further elevated by the attendance of many prominent retired senior military officers, creating an atmosphere of camaraderie and optimism. The gathering of these senior officers symbolized collective support for the direction in which Sjafrie is likely to take Indonesia’s defense policy – a direction aligned with Prabowo’s vision of modernizing the Indonesian Armed Forces (TNI) in response to both domestic and regional security demands. Sjafrie’s experience in defense policymaking extends beyond his military career, also including his tenure as secretary-general of the Ministry of Defense (2004-2009) and later as deputy minister under Purnomo Yusgiantoro (2010-2014). This period marked Indonesia’s efforts to rebuild its defense posture through the “Minimum Essential Forces” initiative – a long-term plan to strengthen defense capabilities and the domestic defense industry. It also marked a strategic shift in the country’s defense policy, from its previous focus on the domestic political realm to greater attention on regional and geopolitical dynamics, recognizing the military’s key role in global interactions. During this period, Sjafrie played a key role in refining defense procurement procedures that involved adjusting the balance of decision-making power between the ministry and the military branches. Additionally, his legacy includes the establishment of the Defense Industry Policy Committee, which aims to harmonize military procurement with the development of Indonesia’s defense industry, including policies on offsets and technology transfers. This background is crucial as Sjafrie steps into his new role, inheriting a legacy of strategic policy development. His appointment also coincides with a renewed focus on enhancing Indonesia’s defense capabilities, particularly in response to regional pressures like South China Sea tensions and the AUKUS pact, which heighten the need for a stable power balance between the U.S. and China. Beyond Procurement Indonesia’s greater role in geopolitical stage requires a strong defense posture, and Sjafrie will play a key role in advancing Prabowo’s vision. Therefore, it is essential that increased defense budgets translate not only into upgraded capabilities but also address internal challenges. Conversations with military officials and defense policy experts underscore several pressing challenges that need attention. Furthermore, force sustainment often lacks sufficient funding especially for maintenance, leading to decreased operational readiness for some critical systems. Currently, defense procurement heavily favors foreign manufacturers, relegating the domestic defense industry, including state-owned enterprises under the Defend ID holding company, to a supporting role for offset and technology transfer requirements. While modernization often necessitates foreign procurement, Sjafrie must ensure that these acquisitions bring meaningful benefits to the local industry through comprehensive offset agreements and technology transfers, fostering a self-sufficient and resilient defense industry. Sjafrie’s familiarity with these companies’ structural issues will be essential as he will need to lay out a sustainable defense procurement plan that will not only help state-owned defense companies such as PTDI, PAL, Pindad, LEN, and Dahana survive but also thrive. This will likely require balancing the expected quick outcomes in terms of defense capabilities with the more longer-term impact on the domestic defense industry. Structural reform Structural reform within the Indonesian Armed Forces (TNI) is another critical challenge – one that is often overlooked. With his strong political backing, Sjafrie is in a position to chart the future structure and size of the TNI, a proposal that past administrations have been reluctant to address due to its political sensitivity. The TNI, currently comprising 404,500 personnel, faces structural inefficiencies that Sjafrie will need to address. Over the years, the TNI has seen a growing number of high-ranking officers – often assigned to civilian roles – that has expanded its size without necessarily adding to its operational capacity. Defense analysts suggest that a leaner force could allow TNI to concentrate resources on training, equipment, and strategic readiness, creating a more agile and capable defense force. A former TNI Chief once suggested that 150,000 would be the ideal size for the Indonesian Army, which currently employs twice that number. Although opinions may vary on the exact figure, there is broad consensus on the need for a well-equipped, well-trained, and adequately compensated force – a goal that remains prohibitively expensive at its current size. Budget constraints, however, are an ever-present reality. While Prabowo is committed to defense, his strong emphasis on large-scale social programs means that defense budgets will remain tight, especially considering Indonesia’s economic realities in the uncertain global climate. In this context, Sjafrie is expected to craft strategic policies that focus on building Indonesia’s deterrence capabilities in critical areas and address the most pressing problems in order to maximize the impact of available resources. Another significant challenge for Sjafrie is gaining acceptance among civil society organizations, given his extensive military background, which includes deployments in conflict zones like the former East Timor and Aceh, as well as his involvement in Jakarta during the bloody unrest of 1998 as Indonesia transitioned to democracy. While history cannot be undone, Sjafrie would do well to follow in the footsteps of his former mentor, Juwono Sudarsono, who earned respect as a defense minister open to human rights issues and committed to reforming the security sector. In summary, as Sjafrie assumes his new role, he has the expertise and backing to make transformative changes. However, he faces considerable challenges in navigating budget constraints, a complex procurement process, and the balancing act between modernizing the military and supporting Indonesia’s defense industry. His job will not be easy, but if he chooses to embrace reforms that take Indonesia beyond the status quo, I am willing to give Sjafrie the benefit of the doubt.

The Toronto Blue Jays pivoted from their failed pursuit of free agent outfielder Juan Soto in a major way, reportedly agreeing to acquire second baseman Andres Gimenez from the Cleveland Guardians, according to multiple reports Tuesday. BREAKING: The Toronto Blue Jays are finalizing a trade to acquire three-time Gold Glove-winning second baseman Andrés Giménez from the Cleveland Guardians, sources tell ESPN. According to Kiley McDaniel of ESPN , first baseman/second baseman Spencer Horwitz is going to Cleveland as part of the trade. Ken Rosenthal of The Athletic reports right-handed pitcher Nick Sandlin is also part of the Guardians' package to Toronto. Day 2 of the Winter Meetings started slowly in the morning but picked up quickly in the afternoon. The Jays were also active on the free agent front, re-signing right-handed relief pitcher Yimi Garcia to a two-year contract. Gimenez, 26, is under contract through 2029 under the terms of a seven-year, $106.5 million extension he signed with Cleveland in March 2023. Gimenez is a career .261 hitter with 49 home runs and 222 RBIs over parts of five major league seasons. Primarily known for his glove, Gimenez has won three consecutive Gold Glove awards at second base (2022-24). Defense comprised the bulk of his 4.3 Wins Above Replacement, per FanGraphs, over the last three seasons. In 2024, Gimenez slashed .252/.298/.340 in 152 games, hitting nine home runs and stealing 30 bases in 35 attempts. He was an AL All-Star in 2022, when he slashed .297/.371/.466 with 17 home runs and 69 RBIs, all career highs. More news: After Whiffing on Juan Soto, Blue Jays' Plan Hinges on One Player: Report Cleveland acquired Gimenez in the Jan. 2021 trade that sent Francisco Lindor and Carlos Carrasco to the New York Mets. His future was somewhat cloudy after the Guardians used the first overall pick of the 2024 draft on a second baseman, Oregon State's Travis Bazzana. Now, Bazzana can remain at his natural position while Gimenez can bring stability to a Toronto infield that could potentially see first baseman Vladimir Guerrero Jr. and shortstop Bo Bichette depart in free agency in a year. More news: Why Juan Soto Chose the Mets: Former GM Sets Record Straight With the trade, Gimenez receives an additional $1 million assignment bonus. The Jays can extend his contract by a year by exercising the $23 million club option in his contract for 2030, or offer him a $2.5 million buyout. Free agency has not been kind to the Blue Jays the last two winters. A year ago, they fell short in their pursuit of Shohei Ohtani. Sunday, they learned they were among the runners-up to Soto. More news: MLB News: Former World Series Champion Outfielder, Coach Dies at 81 Although not a lineup anchor, Gimenez represents an obvious defensive upgrade at a position where Toronto is projected to split time between Will Wagner and Davis Schneider in 2025. More to come on this story from Newsweek Sports .

Van Nistelrooy’s first game in charge ended with a 3-1 win over West Ham, thanks to goals from Jamie Vardy, Bilal El Khannouss and Patson Daka. The Dutchman, who was out of work for just two weeks following his four-game spell as Manchester United interim boss, only started on Sunday so was happy to end a hectic three days in style. “It has been very busy getting to know everyone, start working together,” he said. “Everybody was involved with that and helping, it was busy, long days, but worth it. I was focused on the game and what the game needed, the subs, the half-time talk, so focused on the moment, so I am going to get myself a little beer and reflect on the last three days.” He endured a dream start as Vardy scored after just 98 seconds with El Khannouss and Daka adding second-half goals. It was by no means one-way traffic, though, as West Ham – who scored a consolation through Niclas Fullkrug at the death – had 30 shots on goal. But Van Nistelrooy saw enough to think he can deliver on his objective of keeping the Foxes in the Premier League. “I am very happy, if you look at the result – and it is about the result – it was a great night, three points, three good goals and also very effective. “Overall the game of course we have seen and how dominant West Ham were at certain stages and what they created, that is a fact and something we have to look at. “Overall, what I expected of the players going forward was togetherness and hunger, energy and spirit in this team that is fighting for every inch. “Eleven players on the pitch who are fighting as a foundation to play the rest of the Premier League. I saw that completely with every single player that started and came on. “That’s the foundation we have to build on, without that it will be impossible to get where we want to go. I am very happy about that.” West Ham’s hierarchy will have seen what impact a managerial change can have as the jury remains out on Julen Lopetegui, with away fans making their feelings clear by chanting “You’re getting sacked in the morning”. Lopetegui expects to keep his job but forthcoming games against his former club Wolves, Bournemouth, Brighton and Southampton could determine the Spaniard’s future. “The only thing that I am worried about is to go to training session tomorrow and stand up the players and prepare the next challenge,” he said. “We have one month of December with a lot of matches and I am sure with this attitude we are going to achieve many more points. “I believe in the players. I am confident that tomorrow we are going to be ready to prepare the next match. “Understanding the question, but at the end of the season maybe we talk in another way. There are a lot of matches and points, a lot of things can happen. “I believe in these players and team, I am sure the position is going to be much better. They are only words but we have to work a lot to achieve this.”

TSS Inc.'s CEO Darryll Dewan sells $1.51 million in stockSupposed Greene quip comparing Gaetz's conduct to all of Congress was satire | Fact check

TSS Inc.'s CEO Darryll Dewan sells $1.51 million in stock

TORONTO - The Winnipeg Jets had payback on their minds and top spot in the National Hockey League in their final game before the holiday break. Read this article for free: Already have an account? To continue reading, please subscribe: * TORONTO - The Winnipeg Jets had payback on their minds and top spot in the National Hockey League in their final game before the holiday break. Read unlimited articles for free today: Already have an account? TORONTO – The Winnipeg Jets had payback on their minds and top spot in the National Hockey League in their final game before the holiday break. The Jets made good on both accounts with a 5-2 win against the Toronto Maple Leafs before 18,923 at Scotiabank Arena on Monday. The win avenged a 6-4 home loss to Toronto on Oct. 28, that halted the Jets’ eight-game win streak to begin the season. It also pushed the Jets into first overall. “They don’t hand out awards at Christmas, but obviously, we’re happy,” said Jets centre Mark Scheifele, who enjoyed a three-goal, four-point outing. “It’s good to get a couple of days off, get recharged and get going for the next half of the season.” Surprisingly, the Jets (25-10-1) are only one point ahead of the 36-game pace of 23-9-4 set a year ago. “We’ve been good from top to bottom and we need everybody in this group,” said Kyle O’Connor, who scored the Jets first two goals and helped set up Scheifele for his first of three third-period goals. “I just think our ability to roll over lines and be hungry, and not to be satisfied with anything. We also have taken a day-to-day approach, learning what we can improve on from wins and losses and implementing the adjustments.” Besides defeating the Maple Leafs after what transpired in late October, Scheifele had extra motivation after being left off Canada’s roster for the 4 Nations Face-Off in February. In the 10 games since Canada’s roster was announced, Scheifele has eight goals and 15 points. “You’re disappointed, but at the end of the day, you just want to play well for your group of guys,” Scheifele said. “There’s always a bit of motivation you can draw from in every game. But it’s just a matter of playing good for the Winnipeg Jets and controlling what I can control.” He also enjoys playing in Toronto, an hour from his hometown of Kitchener. “I love coming to Toronto to have the opportunity to play in front of a lot of friends and family,” Scheifele said. “Being so close to home, I get a little extra excited to play here. “I think the biggest thing is we didn’t play our best when we played them last. We were excited to get another crack at them and how them the game we can play. All in all, it’s a big win for us.” MATTHEWS STILL OUT WITH INJURY While the Jets enter the Christmas break with back-to-back wins, the Maple Leafs dropped their second in a row at home without wounded captain Auston Matthews, out with an upper-body injury. Winnipeg Jets Game Days On Winnipeg Jets game days, hockey writers Mike McIntyre and Ken Wiebe send news, notes and quotes from the morning skate, as well as injury updates and lineup decisions. Arrives a few hours prior to puck drop. “We just have to clean up some things off the rush, the transition part especially against a team that’s obviously very good with their top line that takes advantage of time and space,” said Maple Leafs centre John Tavares, who scored both Toronto goals. The Maple Leafs have gone 7-4-0 with Matthews on the sidelines this season and 42-23-2 in his career. Toronto was also missing defenceman Chris Tanev, out day-to-day with a lower-body ailment. Tanev missed his first game after skating in the pre-game warm-up. This report by The Canadian Press was first published Dec. 23, 2024. Advertisement AdvertisementAshland signs definitive agreement to sell Avoca business to ManeRAINN will use AWS generative AI to create on-demand crisis hotlines and additional support mediums. This solution will integrate RAINN's National Sexual Assault Hotline directly into social media, gaming, and social networking sites. Washington, D.C., Dec. 03, 2024 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) -- RAINN , the nation's largest anti-sexual violence organization, today announced it has been selected as a winner of the 2024 Amazon Web Services (AWS) IMAGINE Grant , a public grant opportunity open to registered charities in the United Kingdom and Ireland and registered 501(c) nonprofit organizations in the United States who are using technology to solve the world's most pressing challenges. The grant will support RAINN's efforts to expedite access to trauma-informed support for sexual violence survivors of all ages, delivering critical interventions where people already communicate. Now in its seventh year, the AWS IMAGINE Grant provides vital resources to nonprofit organizations looking to deploy cloud technology as a central tool to achieve mission goals. As part of the program, AWS seeks proposals for big ideas on how to leverage cloud technology in new and innovative ways to accelerate impact in local and global communities. RAINN was named a winner in the Pathfinder - Generative AI category, which recognizes highly innovative, mission-critical projects that leverage generative AI. RAINN will receive up to $200,000 in unrestricted funding, up to $100,000 in AWS Promotional Credits, and implementation support from the AWS Generative AI Innovation Center . Proposals were judged on several factors including the innovative and unique nature of the project, impact on mission-critical goals, and clearly defined outcomes and milestones. RAINN will use AWS generative AI services to integrate RAINN's National Sexual Assault Hotline and additional support mediums for survivors directly into social media, gaming, and social networking sites. Through this integration, RAINN aims to expedite access to trauma-informed support for sexual violence survivors of all ages, delivering critical interventions where people already communicate. "RAINN is honored to be a 2024-2025 Amazon Web Services IMAGINE Pathfinder recipient,” said Bill Bondurant , Chief Technology Officer for RAINN. "AWS enables RAINN support specialists to connect with survivors, especially those from vulnerable populations, where they are already communicating and may be most comfortable accessing support. Reaching out for help is already difficult, and removing barriers to accessing crisis support for survivors is a critical component of RAINN's mission. Together, utilizing AWS services, we will help more survivors and work towards creating a world free from sexual violence.” "At AWS, we're inspired by the nonprofit sector's unwavering commitment to preserving the dignity and health of people and our planet," said Allyson Fryhoff, managing director of nonprofit and nonprofit health at AWS. "Our Imagine Grant winners are pioneering groundbreaking, technology-driven approaches that will amplify their mission impact and build a more equitable and compassionate world. We are thrilled to work alongside these organizations, helping them leverage the transformative capabilities of the AWS Cloud to bring these projects to life.” Since the launch of the IMAGINE Grant program in 2018, AWS has awarded over $14M in unrestricted funds, AWS Promotional Credits, and expert technical guidance to over 130 nonprofit organizations in support of their technology-driven goals. Previous winners are currently using AWS services to tackle critical challenges such as eliminating barriers to food security , improving maternal health outcomes , helping millions access clean and safe drinking water globally, tackling rare disease research, and more. Over 85,000 nonprofit organizations worldwide use AWS to increase their impact and advance mission goals. Through multiple programs tailored specifically to the nonprofit community, AWS enables nonprofits of all sizes to overcome barriers to technology adoption, while enhancing the scale, performance, and capabilities of mission operations. For more information on the AWS IMAGINE Grant, visit https://aws.amazon.com/government-education/nonprofits/aws-imagine-grant-program/ ### About RAINN RAINN , the nation's largest anti-sexual violence organization, created and operates the National Sexual Assault Hotline. RAINN also carries out programs to prevent sexual violence, help survivors, help organizations improve their sexual assault prevention and response programs, and ensure that perpetrators are brought to justice. If you or someone you know has experienced sexual violence, free, confidential help is available 24/7 by calling 800.656.HOPE (4673) or visiting hotline.RAINN.org . Contact: Erinn Robinson Director of Media Relations [email protected] CONTACT: Erinn Robinon Rape, Abuse, and Incest National Network (RAINN) 8133351418 [email protected]

Cheers and beers for Ruud van Nistelrooy as Leicester reign starts with win

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Founder of failed crypto lending platform Celsius Network pleads guilty to fraud charges

Israel and Lebanon's Hezbollah agree to a ceasefire after nearly 14 months of fighting JERUSALEM (AP) — Israel has approved a ceasefire agreement with Lebanon’s Hezbollah militants, setting the stage for an end to nearly 14 months of fighting linked to the ongoing war in the Gaza Strip. The ceasefire is set to take hold at 4 a.m. local time on Wednesday. Israeli warplanes have carried out the most intense wave of strikes in Beirut and its southern suburbs since the start of the conflict amid a record number of evacuation warnings. At least 42 people were killed in strikes across Lebanon, according to local authorities. President Joe Biden said his administration now would make a renewed push for a ceasefire in Gaza. What both sides are saying about the ceasefire deal between Israel and Lebanon's Hezbollah A ceasefire deal that could end more than a year of cross-border fighting between Israel and Lebanon’s Hezbollah militant group won backing from Israeli leaders. The truce that is set to take effect early Wednesday raised hopes and renewed difficult questions in a region gripped by conflict. Hezbollah leaders also signaled tentative backing for the U.S.-brokered deal, which offers both sides an off-ramp from hostilities But the deal does little directly to resolve the much deadlier war that has raged in Gaza since Hamas militants attacked southern Israel last October. Cheap Ozempic? How millions of Americans with obesity may get access to costly weight-loss drugs WASHINGTON (AP) — Millions of obese Americans would get access to popular weekly injectables that would help them shed pounds quickly if a $35 billion proposal from the Biden administration is blessed by President-elect Donald Trump. The rule, unveiled Tuesday by the Health and Human Services Department, would require Medicare and Medicaid to cover weight-loss drugs like Wegovy or Zepbound for a large segment of Americans who are obese. But it’s unclear if the proposal, which would not go into effect until after Trump takes office, will have support from his new administration — including from Robert F. Kennedy Jr., an opponent of the drugs who has been tapped by the president-elect to serve as head of HHS. Trump vows tariffs over immigration. What the numbers say about border crossings, drugs and crime. WASHINGTON (AP) — President-elect Donald Trump is threatening tariffs on Mexico and Canada as he seeks to portray them as responsible for illegal immigration and drug smuggling. Over its tenure, the Biden administration has struggled with growing numbers of migrants arriving at the southern border. But this year, the number of people crossing the border without documents has actually been falling. That's due in part to stricter enforcement by Mexican authorities as well as asylum restrictions announced earlier this year by the Biden administration. When it comes to fentanyl smuggling, much of the deadly supply comes from Mexico though statistics show more than 86% of those sentenced for fentanyl trafficking crimes in the 12 months ending September 2023 were U.S. citizens. AP finds that a Pentagon-funded study on extremism in the military relied on old data Early this year, Pete Hegseth told a Fox News audience a new, Pentagon-funded study proved that the number of military service members and veterans involved in the Jan. 6 insurrection did not indicate a wider problem in the armed forces. Hegseth, Donald Trump's pick to head the Department of Defense, wasn’t alone. The Wall Street Journal’s opinion page highlighted the same report as evidence that extremists in military communities were “phantoms” created by a “false media narrative.” The X account for Republicans on the House Armed Services Committee posted that the study showed the focus on extremism in the military was a “witch hunt.” But The Associated Press has found that the study relied on old data, misleading analyses and ignored evidence that pointed to the opposite conclusion. How Trump's bet on voters electing him managed to silence some of his legal woes WASHINGTON (AP) — Special counsel Jack Smith move to abandon two federal cases accusing Trump of endangering American democracy and national security does away with the most serious legal threats Trump was facing as he returns to the White House. It was the culmination of a monthslong defense effort to delay the proceedings at every step and use the criminal allegations to Trump's political advantage, putting the final word in the hands of voters instead of jurors. The move just weeks after Trump’s victory over Vice President Kamala Harris underscores the immense personal stake Trump had in the campaign in which he turned his legal woes into a political rallying cry. Walmart's DEI rollback signals a profound shift in the wake of Trump's election victory NEW YORK (AP) — Walmart’s sweeping rollback of its diversity policies is the strongest indication yet of a profound shift taking hold at U.S. companies that are re-evaluating the legal and political risks associated with bold programs to bolster historically underrepresented groups in business. The changes announced by the world’s biggest retailer on Monday followed a string of legal victories by conservative groups that have filed an onslaught of lawsuits challenging corporate and federal programs aimed at elevating minority and women-owned businesses and employees. The retreat from such programs crystalized with the election of former President Donald Trump, whose administration is certain to make dismantling diversity, equity and inclusion programs a priority. Brazil’s Bolsonaro planned and participated in a 2022 coup plot, unsealed police report alleges SAO PAULO (AP) — Brazil’s former far-right President Jair Bolsonaro was fully aware of and actively participated in a coup plot to remain in office after his defeat in the 2022 election, according to a Federal Police report that has been unsealed. Brazil’s Federal Police last Thursday formally accused Bolsonaro and 36 other people of attempting a coup. They sent their 884-page report to the Supreme Court, which lifted the seal. Bolsonaro called a meeting in December 2022, during which he presented a draft decree to the commanders of the three divisions of the armed forces, that would have declared the vote fraudulent, to justify a possible military intervention. Bolsonaro has repeatedly denied any wrongdoing. New rule allows HIV-positive organ transplants People with HIV who need a kidney or liver transplant will be able to receive an organ from a donor with HIV. That's according to a new rule announced Tuesday by U.S. health officials. Previously, such transplants could be done only as part of research studies. The new rule takes effect Wednesday. It's expected to shorten the wait for organs for all, regardless of HIV status, by increasing the pool of available organs. The practice is supported by a decade of research, during which 500 transplants of kidneys and livers from HIV-positive donors have been done in the U.S. Surveillance tech advances by Biden could aid in Trump's promised crackdown on immigration President-elect Donald Trump will return to power next year with a raft of technological tools at his disposal that would help deliver his campaign promise of cracking down on immigration — among them, surveillance and artificial intelligence technology that the Biden administration already uses to help make crucial decisions in tracking, detaining and ultimately deporting immigrants lacking permanent legal status. One algorithm, for example, ranks immigrants with a “Hurricane Score,” ranging from 1-5, to assess whether someone will “abscond” from the agency’s supervision.