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H aving pursued higher studies in Japan, I was deeply inspired by their development, culture, and attitudes. The Japanese transport system, in particular, stands as a symbol of efficiency, professionalism, and meticulous planning. This article explores into the invaluable lessons from Japan’s approach to public transport and infrastructure, offering insights for Sri Lanka to embrace a holistic and progressive vision. Japan’s transport system integrates convenience, punctuality, and user-centric design. Buses, trams, trains, and taxis operate seamlessly, reflecting a deep respect for public service. Short-distance travel is primarily facilitated by buses and trams. Most of the trams run on electricity, making them environmentally friendly. These systems demonstrate Japan’s commitment to serving all stakeholders, including the elderly, differently-abled individuals, and families. A System Rooted in Discipline and Professionalism One defining feature of Japan’s transport system is the “one-man operation” model for short distance operations, where the driver manages both the operation of the vehicle and passenger transactions. Despite the dual responsibilities, services remain highly punctual and organised. Passengers are encouraged to pay fares accurately, facilitated by onboard machines that allow for cash adjustments. The trust placed in passengers to pay their due amount reflects the integrity of Japanese society. Punctuality is another hallmark of the system. Buses and trams arrive at each stop precisely as scheduled, with deviations measured in seconds. Drivers, irrespective of the vehicle type, significantly shape the image of Japan’s transport system. Known for their politeness, punctuality, and attentiveness, drivers often bow to greet passengers, reflecting respect and professionalism. Rigorous training programmes equip them with technical skills and soft skills, ensuring they manage time efficiently, prioritise safety, and handle challenges calmly. Drivers’ formal attire—white shirt and a cap complete with ties and gloves—reinforces their professional image and inspires trust among passengers. This commitment to service excellence ensures that every journey reflects the nation’s dedication to public welfare. Accessibility and Inclusivity for All Japanese transport infrastructure is designed to cater to all members of society. Drop-down curbs and ramps at the junction of side walks and pedestrian crossings as well as bus stops and tram stations facilitate wheelchair users, parents with strollers, and travelers with luggage. Tactile tiles on sidewalks guide visually impaired pedestrians, while sound systems at pedestrian crossings ensure safe and independent mobility. These thoughtful features underline the inclusivity ingrained in Japanese transport planning. Platforms for trams and trains are designed to minimise gaps, ensuring that boarding and alighting are safe and convenient for everyone. The bus doors are equipped with mechanisms to lower the vehicle’s height at stops, making it easier for passengers to step in. These inclusive practices not only enhance usability but also reflect the nation’s commitment to equitable access. Integrating Technology for Efficiency Japanese transport systems are a testament to the seamless integration of technology. Bus halts and tram stations provide detailed information, including route numbers, timetables, and live updates. Passengers can track the arrival of the next bus or tram via online platforms, enabling precise journey planning. Ticket vending machines and automated gates at train stations simplify transactions, reducing wait times and ensuring a smooth flow of passengers.Train platforms are marked with compartment numbers, allowing passengers to wait exactly where their designated car will stop, stream lining the boarding process. The Marvel of the Shinkansen Japan’s Shinkansen, often referred to as the “bullet train,” operates at speeds of up to 320 kilometers per hour and is a global model of speed, reliability, and punctuality. According to Japan Railways, the average delay of a Shinkansen train in 2021 was just 24 seconds, demonstrating the precision of its operations. Beyond speed, the Shinkansen offers a travel experience that prioritises comfort, with spacious seating, clean carriages, and onboard amenities such as Wi-Fi and catering services. Integrated with Japan’s extensive network of local and metro trains, it creates a seamless transport ecosystem that connects urban hubs with rural areas. As former Prime Minister Shinzo Abe aptly stated, “Infrastructure is not just about moving goods or people; it’s about connecting hearts and creating new opportunities.” Stations themselves are well-equipped, offering shops, dining options, waiting areas, and hygienic restrooms. This focus on passenger convenience extends to long-distance buses, which operate with similar accuracy and comfort. Such comprehensive facilities ensure that public transport is not just a means of travel but an enjoyable experience. A Culture of Respect and Order The discipline and orderliness of Japanese society are mirrored in their transport systems. Public transport is free from disruptions such as unauthorized vendors, beggars, or parked vehicles obstructing access. Passengers maintain decorum by avoiding loud conversations or disruptive behavior, ensuring a peaceful journey for everyone. Safety is a cornerstone of the system. Regular announcements remind passengers to hold on tightly during travel, hold their belongings not to interrupt or disturb fellow passengers, and be courteous to fellow commuters. These practices foster a sense of community and shared responsibility, making public transport a reliable and respectful space. Inspiring Stories of Public Commitment A touching example of Japan’s dedication to public convenience is the story of Ky-Shirataki Station in Hokkaido. This station was kept operational to serve a single high school student, ensuring her access to education until her graduation. Shortly after she completed her studies, the station was closed. This act demonstrates the Japanese government’s recognition that long-term societal benefits often outweigh immediate economic returns. Such a commitment to individual needs highlights the value placed on public service. Lessons for Sri Lanka Sri Lanka’s transport system can benefit immensely from adopting Japan’s best practices. Key lessons include: Punctuality and Discipline: Implementing stringent schedules and fostering a culture of timeliness among operators and passengers. Inclusivity: Designing infrastructure to accommodate differently-abled individuals and other vulnerable groups. Integration of Technology: Introducing live tracking systems, cashless payments, and automated ticketing to enhance efficiency. Professionalism: Encouraging high standards of service, with well-dressed and courteous staff. Cleanliness and Safety: Maintaining hygienic and secure facilities across all transport modes. Comprehensive Planning: Viewing transport as an enabler of broader societal goals, including education, healthcare, and economic growth. By adopting these principles, Sri Lanka can create a transport system that not only meets immediate needs but also fosters long-term development and societal progress. A Holistic Approach to Development Japan’s transport success is part of a broader, integrated development strategy. The interconnectedness of sectors such as education, healthcare, tourism, and agriculture is well-recognised. Transportation enables access to schools, hospitals, markets, and tourist destinations, underscoring its central role in national development. To match this holistic approach, Sri Lanka must consider the ripple effects of transport investments across various sectors. Policymakers should prioritise projects that enhance connectivity, reduce inequalities, and improve quality of life. A cohesive strategy will ensure that investments in transport yield benefits far beyond the immediate scope. A Call to Transform Sri Lanka’s Transport System An effective transport system mirrors a nation’s progress and values. Japan’s example illustrates how discipline, technology, and collective commitment can create a seamless network that benefits all. Sri Lanka must prioritise long-term investments, align policies, and adopt Japan’s best practices to build a transport system that fosters national pride. As Mahatma Gandhi said, “The true measure of any society can be found in how it treats its most vulnerable members.” By investing in an inclusive and efficient transport system, Sri Lanka can ensure equitable access to mobility while driving economic growth. “A developed country is not where the poor own cars, but where the rich use public transport.” Let this be our vision for Sri Lanka—a nation connected not only by roads and railways but by a shared commitment to progress and unity.

ATLANTA — Deliberations are underway in Atlanta after a year of testimony in the gang and racketeering trial that originally included the rapper Young Thug. Jurors are considering whether to convict Shannon Stillwell and Deamonte Kendrick, who raps as Yak Gotti, on gang, murder, drug and gun charges. The original indictment charged 28 people with conspiring to violate Georgia’s Racketeer Influenced and Corrupt Organizations Act. Opening statements in the trial for six of those defendants happened a year ago. Four of them, including Young Thug, pleaded guilty last month. The rapper was freed on probation. Stillwell and Kendrick rejected plea deals after more than a week of negotiations, and their lawyers chose not to present evidence or witnesses. Both seemed to be in good spirits Tuesday morning after closings wrapped the previous night. Kendrick was chatting and laughing with Stillwell and his lawyers before the jury arrived for instructions. The jury started deliberating Tuesday afternoon and was dismissed at 5 p.m. Jurors are expected to resume deliberations Wednesday morning. If they don’t reach a verdict by 3 p.m. Wednesday, the judge will send them home for the Thanksgiving weekend and they will return Monday morning. Kendrick and Stillwell were charged in the 2015 killing of Donovan Thomas Jr., also known as “Big Nut,” in an Atlanta barbershop. Prosecutors painted Stillwell and Kendrick as members of a violent street gang called Young Slime Life, or YSL, co-founded in 2012 by Young Thug, whose real name is Jeffery Williams. During closings on Monday, they pointed to tattoos, song lyrics and social media posts they said proved members, including Stillwell, admitted to killing people in rival gangs. Prosecutors say Thomas was in a rival gang. Stillwell was also charged in the 2022 killing of Shymel Drinks, which prosecutors said was in retaliation for the killing of two YSL associates days earlier. Defense attorneys Doug Weinstein and Max Schardt said the state presented unreliable witnesses, weak evidence and cherry-picked lyrics and social media posts to push a false narrative about Stillwell, Kendrick and the members of YSL. Schardt, Stillwell's attorney, reminded the jury that alleged YSL affiliates said during the trial that they had lied to police. Law enforcement played a “sick game” by promising they would escape long prison sentences if they said what police wanted them to say, Schardt said. He theorized that one of those witnesses could have killed Thomas. The truth is that their clients were just trying to escape poverty through music, Schardt said. “As a whole, we know the struggles that these communities have had,” Schardt said. “A sad, tacit acceptance that it’s either rap, prison or death.” Young Thug’s record label is also known as YSL, an acronym of Young Stoner Life. Kendrick was featured on two popular songs from the label’s compilation album Slime Language 2, “Take It to Trial" and “Slatty," which prosecutors presented as evidence in the trial. Weinstein, Kendrick’s defense attorney, said during closings it was wrong for prosecutors to target the defendants for their music and lyrics. Prosecutor Simone Hylton disagreed, and said surveillance footage and phone evidence supported her case. “They have the audacity to think they can just brag about killing somebody and nobody’s gonna hold them accountable,” Hylton said. The trial had more than its fair share of delays. Jury selection took nearly 10 months, and Stillwell was stabbed last year at the Fulton County jail, which paused trial proceedings. Judge Paige Reese Whitaker took over after Fulton County Superior Court Chief Judge Ural Glanville was removed from the case in July because he had a meeting with prosecutors and a state witness without defense attorneys present. Whitaker often lost patience with prosecutors over moves such as not sharing evidence with defense attorneys, once accusing them of “poor lawyering.” But the trial sped up under her watch. In October, four defendants, including Young Thug, pleaded guilty, with the rapper entering a non-negotiated or “blind” plea, meaning he didn't have a deal worked out with prosecutors. Nine people charged in the indictment, including rapper Gunna, accepted plea deals before the trial began. Charges against 12 others are pending. Prosecutors dropped charges against one defendant after he was convicted of murder in an unrelated case. Kramon is a corps member for The Associated Press/Report for America Statehouse News Initiative. Report for America is a nonprofit national service program that places journalists in local newsrooms to report on undercovered issues. Follow Kramon on X: @charlottekramon This article was generated from an automated news agency feed without modifications to text.NoneNorthern Indiana Faces Severe Travel Disruptions as US Winter Storm Delivers Snow and Winds: New Updates You Need To Know

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MUAN COUNTY, South Korea >> The deadliest air accident ever in South Korea killed 179 people on Sunday, when an airliner belly-landed and skidded off the end of the runway, erupting in a fireball as it slammed into a wall at Muan International Airport. Jeju Air flight 7C2216, arriving from the Thai capital Bangkok with 175 passengers and six crew on board, was trying to land shortly after 9 a.m. (0000 GMT) at the airport in the south of the country, South Korea’s transport ministry said. Two crew members survived and were being treated for injuries. The deadliest air accident on South Korean soil was also the worst involving a South Korean airline in nearly three decades, the transport ministry said. The twin-engine Boeing 737-800 was seen in local media video skidding down the runway with no visible landing gear before crashing into navigation equipment and a wall in an explosion of flames and debris. “Only the tail part retains a little bit of shape, and the rest of (the plane) looks almost impossible to recognize,” Muan fire chief Lee Jung-hyun told a press briefing. The two crew members, a man and a woman, were rescued from the tail section of the burning plane, Lee said. They were being treated at hospitals with medium to severe injuries, said the head of the local public health center. Investigators are examining bird strikes and weather conditions as possible factors, Lee said. Yonhap news agency cited airport authorities as saying such a strike may have caused the landing gear to malfunction. The crash was the worst for any South Korean airline since a 1997 Korean Air crash in Guam that killed more than 200 people, transportation ministry data showed. The previous worst on South Korean soil was an Air China crash that killed 129 in 2002. Experts said the bird strike report and the way the aircraft attempted to land raised more questions than answers. “At this point there are a lot more questions than we have answers. Why was the plane going so fast? Why were the flaps not open? Why was the landing gear not down?,” said Gregory Alegi, an aviation expert and former teacher at Italy’s air force academy. Under global aviation rules, South Korea will lead a civil investigation into the crash and automatically involve the National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB) in the United States where the plane was designed and built. The NTSB said later it was leading a team of U.S. investigators to help South Korea’s aviation authority. Boeing and the Federal Aviation Administration were also taking part. ‘MY LAST WORDS’ Hours after the crash, family members gathered in the airport’s arrival area, some crying and hugging as Red Cross volunteers handed out blankets. Many victims appeared to be residents of nearby areas returning from vacation, officials said. Family members screamed and wept as a medic announced the names of victims identified by their fingerprints. One relative stood at a microphone to ask for more information from authorities. “My older brother died and I don’t know what’s going on,” he said. Mortuary vehicles lined up outside to take bodies away, and authorities said a temporary morgue had been established. A transport ministry official said the control tower had issued a bird strike warning and shortly after the pilots declared mayday and then attempted to land from the opposite direction the plane had come in. A passenger texted a relative to say a bird was stuck in the wing, the News1 agency reported. The person’s final message was, “Should I say my last words?” Jeon Je-young, the 71-year-old father of one woman on board, played and replayed a video of the crash. “When I saw the accident video, the plane seemed out of control,” said Jeon . “The pilots probably had no choice but to do it. My daughter, who is only in her mid-40s, ended up like this. This is unbelievable,” he said. “She was almost home.” The Boeing model involved in the crash, a 737-800, is one of the world’s most flown airliners with a generally strong safety record. It was developed well before the MAX variant involved in a recent Boeing safety crisis. The aircraft was manufactured in 2009, the transport ministry said. Boeing said in a emailed statement, “We are in contact with Jeju Air regarding flight 2216 and stand ready to support them. We extend our deepest condolences to the families who lost loved ones, and our thoughts remain with the passengers and crew.” The two CFM56-7B26 engines were manufactured by CFM International, a joint venture between GE Aerospace and France’s Safran, the transport ministry said. A CFM spokesperson said, “We are deeply saddened by the loss of Jeju Air flight 2216. We extend our heartfelt sympathies to the families and loved ones of those on board.” CHALLENGE TO COUNTRY’S NEW INTERIM PRESIDENT Jeju Air CEO Kim E-bae apologized for the accident, bowing deeply during a televised briefing. He said the aircraft had no record of accidents and there were no early signs of malfunction. The airline will cooperate with investigators and make supporting the bereaved its top priority, Kim said. No abnormal conditions were reported when the aircraft left Bangkok’s Suvarnabhumi Airport, said Kerati Kijmanawat, president of Airports of Thailand. The passengers included two Thai nationals and the rest are believed to be South Koreans, according to the transportation ministry. It was the first fatal flight for Jeju Air, a low-cost airline founded in 2005 that ranks behind Korean Air Lines and Asiana Airlines as the country’s third-largest carrier by passenger numbers. The accident happened only three weeks after Jeju Air started regular flights from Muan to Bangkok and other Asian cities on Dec. 8. Muan International is one of South Korea’s smallest airports but it has become much busier in recent years. All domestic and international flights at the airport were canceled after the accident, Yonhap reported. South Korean acting President Choi Sang-mok, named interim leader of the country on Friday in an ongoing political crisis, arrived at the scene of the accident and said the government was putting all its resources into dealing with the crash. Two Thai women were on the plane, aged 22 and 45, Thai government spokesperson Jirayu Houngsub said. The Thai foreign ministry later confirmed both were among those killed. The embassy in Seoul was coordinating with the South Koreans and arranging for family members to travel from Thailand, the ministry said in a statement. Thai Prime Minister Paetongtarn Shinawatra sent condolences to the families of the dead and injured in a post on X, saying she had instructed the foreign ministry to provide assistance.LAS VEGAS — There are three races remaining in the Formula 1 season and Max Verstappen of Red Bull is close to a fourth consecutive world championship, which can wrap up Saturday night at the Las Vegas Grand Prix. All is not smooth sailing headed into this final month of racing: "It was a bit of a surprise, I think, for everybody," said Mercedes driver George Russell, a GPDA director. "It's a hell of a lot of pressure now onto the new race director (with) just three races left. Often, as drivers, we probably feel like we're the last to find out this sort of information." People are also reading... The Andretti team is expected to receive F1 approval to join the grid, albeit without Michael Andretti, who has scaled back his role dramatically since the IndyCar season ended in September. Many drivers, particularly seven-time champion Lewis Hamilton, have been at odds with FIA President Mohammed Ben Sulayem since his election following the 2021 season finale. In the GDPA statement, they reminded the sanctioning body "our members are adults" who don't need lectures and fines on foul language or jewelry bans, and simply want fair and consistent race control. There's been no response from Ben Sulayem, and won't be this weekend since he does not attend the LVGP. He will be at Qatar and the finale in Abu Dhabi next month. Hamilton doesn't think all the behind-the-scenes changes will be a fan topic as the season comes to a close. But he noted that consistency from race control is all the drivers have asked for, while throwing his support behind Domenicali and the job Maffei has done in growing F1 since Liberty took over. "I really hope Stefano is not leaving because he's been so instrumental in changes and progress to this whole thing," Hamilton said. "And he knows the sport as well as anyone. But all good things do come to an end, and whoever they put into place, I just hope they are like-minded. But sometimes you have to shake the trees." That's just what happened with the surprise departure of race director Wittich. Although drivers have been unhappy with race officiating this season and held a private GPDA meeting in Mexico City, Russell said they had no prior warning Wittich was out. The race director is the referee each weekend and Wittich has been in charge since 2022, when Michael Masi was fired following the controversial 2021 season-ending, championship-altering finale at Abu Dhabi. Now the man in charge for the final three races is Rui Marques, the Formula 2 and Formula 3 race director. Las Vegas, which overcame multiple stumbling blocks in last year's debut before putting on one of the best races of the season, is a difficult place to start. Verstappen can win his fourth title by simply scoring three points more than Lando Norris of McLaren. "It's a bit weird with three races to go to do that," Verstappen said. "It doesn't matter if you're positive or negative about certain things. I thought in Brazil there was definitely room for improvement, for example. It's still a bit weird having to now then deal with a different race director." Charles Leclerc of Ferrari wondered why the move was made with only three races to go. "To do it so late in the season, at such a crucial moment of the season, it could have probably been managed in a better way," he said. The drivers have consistently asked for clearer guidelines in the officiating of races, specifically regarding track limits and racing rules. The drivers have no idea how Marques will officiate, highlighting a disconnect between the competitors and Ben Sulaymen's FIA. "We just want to be transparent with the FIA and have this dialogue that is happening," Russell said. "And I think the departure of Niels is also a prime example of not being a part of these conversations." The GDPA statement made clear the drivers do not think their voice is being heard. "If we feel we're being listened to, and some of the changes that we are requesting are implemented, because ultimately we're only doing it for the benefit of the sport, then maybe our confidence will increase," Russell said. "But I think there's a number of drivers who feel a bit fed up with the whole situation. It only seems to be going in the wrong direction." He also said the relationship between the drivers and the FIA seems fractured. "Sometimes just hiring and firing is not the solution," he said. "You need to work together to improve the problem." Norris, who has battled Verstappen this year with mixed officiating rulings, said "obviously things are not running as smoothly as what we would want." Marques has his first driver meeting ahead of Thursday night's two practice sessions and then three weeks to prove to the competitors he is up for the job. Carlos Sainz Jr., who will leave Ferrari for Williams at the end of the season, hopes the drama doesn't distract from the momentum F1 has built over the last five years. "I think Formula 1 is in a great moment right now and all these rumors, I think in every team, every job, there's job changes," he said. "It's not big drama. I'm a big fan of the people you mentioned, they've done an incredible job in Formula 1 and Formula 1 is what it is thanks to these people. But it's just so emotional, especially the Stefano one. The only one that has a real effect is the race director. But I think if he does a good job, it should be transparent and nothing big." Be the first to know

Malik Nabers says calling the Giants 'soft' was wrong but he doesn't regret speaking outChinese President Xi Jinping warned Tuesday that there would be "no winners" in a trade war with the United States and vowed the country would hit its growth goals for the year. Donald Trump -- who returns to the White House next month -- unleashed a grueling trade war with China during his first term in office, lambasting alleged intellectual property theft and other "unfair" practices. He has pledged to impose even higher tariffs on China after taking office on January 20, as Beijing is grappling with a shaky post-pandemic economic recovery. "Tariff wars, trade wars, and technology wars go against historical trends and economic rules, and there will be no winners," Xi said of China-U.S. relations while meeting several heads of multilateral financial institutions in Beijing, according to state broadcaster CCTV. "China is willing to maintain dialogue with the U.S. government, expand cooperation, manage differences and promote the development of China-U.S. relations in a stable, healthy and sustainable direction," said Xi. Beijing is targeting annual growth this year of around five percent, despite sluggish domestic consumption, high unemployment and a prolonged crisis in the vast property sector. Xi also said during Tuesday's meeting that China had "full confidence" in achieving its 2024 growth goal, state media reported. His remarks came as official data showed the country's exports rose last month at a slower rate than expected while imports shrunk further, underscoring the challenges China is still facing. The latest reading reinforced the need for more support a day after top officials pledged to bolster stuttering growth. Overseas shipments this year have represented a rare bright spot in the Chinese economy, with domestic spending mired in a slump and persistent woes in the property sector spooking investors. Exports jumped 6.7 percent on-year to $312.3 billion last month, China's General Administration of Customs said. But the figure was much slower than the 8.7 percent anticipated by economists in a Bloomberg survey and well down from the 12.7 percent leap in October, which was the strongest in more than two years. The data showed exports grew 5.4 percent on-year in January-November. "China's exports were perhaps the biggest upside surprise for the economy in 2024," wrote Lynn Song, chief economist for Greater China at ING. This is "one of the main reasons China is set to achieve its 'around five percent' growth target" for this year, he added. Analysts have suggested the recent surge in shipments is because foreign buyers fearing another trade standoff were racing to beat any possible tariffs on Chinese goods by Trump. "We could see some frontloading of exports in the coming few months but momentum is likely to soften after this is done, unless the outcome of tariff negotiations is surprisingly positive," wrote Song. The 3.9 percent drop in imports last month extended a slide in the previous month -- and was much worse than the 0.9 percent rise forecast -- as domestic demand continues to be dampened by lackluster consumer spending. The readings come as investors closely watch signals from Chinese leaders, who are convening this week in Beijing for a series of key meetings on economic planning for the coming year. The Politburo, China's top decision-making body, on Monday urged "vigorous" support for consumption and a loosening of monetary policy in 2025. But observers are still waiting for the announcement of specific policies, particularly any measures to significantly bolster consumption. Zhang Zhiwei, president and chief economist at Pinpoint Asset Management, said in a note that another key meeting on economic policy -- expected to take place in the coming days -- could "shed more light, particularly on the fiscal policy front".

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Russell Sage junior defender Courtney Bush (Mohonasen) earned All-Region honors from the United Soccer Coaches for the second straight season. Bush, the anchor of the defense, was voted fourth-team All-Region, as well as second-team All-Empire 8 Conference. Kutztown University freshman RJ Otten (Ballston Spa) set the school record in the men’s 400-yard individual medley on Nov. 23, in 4:11.18, while finishing fourth at the Franklin & Marshall Invitational. He also placed 14th in the 200 butterfly at the event on the next day, in 1:58.50, qualifying him for the Pennsylvania State Athletic Conference Championships. On Dec. 7, he placed second in the 200 backstroke in a dual meet against Arcadia, in 2:02.94, which qualified him for the PSACCs in that event. Two local players for the Utica University football team made the third team of the Empire 8 Conference All-Star Team. Senior offensive lineman Russell Porter (Canajoharie) started all 10 games at left tackle and protected his backfield mates very well. Junior wide receiver Antonio Cianfarani (Scotia-Glenville) was the Pioneers’ leading receiver with 28 catches for 394 yards and three touchdowns. Two local women’s indoor track and field athletes shared Empire 8 Conference Co-Field Athlete of the Week honors on Monday: Houghton freshman Alexa Belanger (Burnt Hills-Ballston Lake) and SUNY Geneseo senior Zoe Connor (Scotia-Glenville). Belanger won the high jump in her first intercollegiate meet Friday at the Houghton December Classic with a height of 1.64 meters (5 feet, 4.5 inches), which is currently sixth in Division III and second all-time in school history. Connor set a program record for the shot put on Friday at Nazareth, winning with a distance of 12.89 meters (42 feet, 3.5 inches). She also won the weight throw with a 16.95 meters (55-7.5), which ranks seventh in Division III. Through Dec. 7, AIC senior power forward Rhaymi Porter (Scotia-Glenville/Wilbraham Monson Academy) had started all eight games and was averaging 4.4 points, 9.6 rebounds and 2.75 blocks for the women’s basketball team. Through Dec. 7, Paul Smith’s junior center Colin Palmer (Shenendehowa) was second in scoring on the men’s hockey team with 31 points, on 10 goals and 21 assists. SUNY Potsdam graduate student captain Kenzie Cerny (Shenendehowa) swam to victory in the women’s 200 butterfly at the North Country Invitational on Nov. 23. Her time was 2:26.49. She also was second in the 400 IM in 5:06.89. In an earlier win over Bard, she won the 1,000 freestyle (11:56.15) and 100 backstroke (1:06.28). Through Dec. 7, SUNY Plattsburgh junior guard Jaden Wilson (Johnstown) was third on the women’s basketball team in scoring with 8.4 points per game. She also averaged 3.7 rebounds per game. Through Dec. 7, Hudson Valley Community College freshman forward Lila Christensen (Mechanicville) averaged 6.7 points and 4.6 rebounds per game for the women’s basketball team. SUNY Oswego junior guard Sydney Hoefs (Amsterdam) averaged 5.8 points, 4.0 rebounds and 3.6 assists for the women’s basketball team through Dec. 7. SUNY Oswego junior Nathan Ratta Vine (Burnt Hills-Ballston Lake) won the 100-yard breaststroke (1:03.48) and 100 individual medley (56.47), and placed second in the 200 freestyle to help the Lakers edge SUNY Brockport in a men’s dual meet, 147-144. On Nov. 23, he placed third in the 200 IM (2:03.54) at the North Country Invite. Suffolk University sophomore guard Nick Verdile (Ballston Spa) went 7 for 9 on 3-pointers and scored a career-high 21 points in the Rams’ 90-42 win over Curry on Saturday.

Sean ‘Diddy’ Combs’ third bid to be released on bail won’t be decided until next weekJERUSALEM (AP) — Israel unleashed its largest wave of airstrikes across Lebanon since agreeing to a ceasefire with Hezbollah last week, killing at least 11 people on Monday after the Lebanese militant group fired a volley of projectiles as a warning over what it said were Israeli truce violations . The projectiles were apparently the first time that Hezbollah took aim at Israeli forces after the 60-day ceasefire went into effect last Wednesday. The increasingly fragile truce aimed to end more than a year of war between Hezbollah and Israel — part of a wider regional conflict sparked by the devastating Israel-Hamas war in Gaza . In the United States, President-elect Donald Trump demanded the immediate release of Israeli hostages held by the Palestinian militant Hamas group in Gaza, saying on social media that if they are not freed before he takes office in January there would be “HELL TO PAY.” It was not immediately clear whether Trump was threatening to directly involve the U.S. military in Israel’s ongoing war in Gaza. The U.S. has given Israel crucial military and diplomatic support throughout the nearly 15-month conflict. A new exchange of fire threatens Lebanon ceasefire Lebanon’s Health Ministry said an Israeli airstrike on the southern village of Haris killed five people and wounded two while another airstrike on the village of Tallousa killed four and also wounded two. Israel's military carried out a string of airstrikes late Monday against what it said were Hezbollah fighters, infrastructure and rocket launchers across Lebanon, in response to Hezbollah firing two projectiles toward Mount Dov — a disputed Israeli-held territory known as Shebaa Farms in Lebanon where the borders of Lebanon, Syria, and Israel meet. Israel said the projectiles fell in open areas and no injuries were reported. Hezbollah said in a statement that it fired on an Israeli military position in the area as a “defensive and warning response” after what it called “repeated violations” of the ceasefire deal by Israel. It said complaints to mediators tasked with monitoring the ceasefire “were futile in stopping these violations.” Before the Hezbollah projectiles, Israeli carried out at least four airstrikes and an artillery barrage in southern Lebanon, including a drone strike that killed a person on a motorcycle, according to Lebanese state media. Another strike killed a corporal in the Lebanese security services. Israel has said its strikes are in response to unspecified Hezbollah violations, and that under the ceasefire deal it reserves the right to retaliate. Lebanon’s parliament speaker, Nabih Berri, accused Israel of violating the truce more than 50 times in recent days by launching airstrikes, demolishing homes near the border and violating Lebanon's airspace. Officials in the U.S. — which along with France helped broker the truce and heads a commission meant to monitor adherence to the deal — played down the significance of Israeli strikes. White House national security spokesman John Kirby said, “Largely speaking, the ceasefire is holding.” “We’ve gone from dozens of strikes down to one a day maybe two a day,” Kirby told reporters, referring to Israeli strikes. “We’re going to keep trying and see what we can do to get it down to zero.” Under the deal, Iran-backed Hezbollah has 60 days to withdraw its fighters and infrastructure from southern Lebanon. During that time, Israeli troops are also to withdraw to their side of the border. ‘RELEASE THE HOSTAGES NOW!’ In a post on his Truth Social site, Trump called for Palestinian militants to free all of the roughly 100 Israeli hostages still held inside Gaza , around two-thirds of whom are believed to be alive. If not, Trump said, “Those responsible will be hit harder than anybody has been hit in the long and storied History of the United States of America. RELEASE THE HOSTAGES NOW!” Hours earlier, the Israeli government confirmed the death of Omer Neutra, a dual U.S.-Israeli citizen, whose body is still believed to be held by Hamas in Gaza, according to the Israeli government. The Biden administration is mounting a last-ditch effort to try to restart talks between Israel and Hamas. Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu’s office declined to comment on Trump's post though President Isaac Herzog welcomed it. Fears of hunger mount in Gaza In Gaza, meanwhile, alarm is mounting over increasing hunger. The amount of food allowed in by Israel has plunged over the past two months, compounded by a decision Sunday by the United Nations to halt aid deliveries from the main crossing into the territory because of the threat of armed gangs looting convoys. Experts have already warned of famine in the northernmost part of Gaza , which Israeli forces have almost completely isolated since early October, saying they're fighting regrouped Hamas militants there. Displaced families have set up tents surrounded by piles of garbage on the streets of Gaza City. Bilal Marouf, 55, said he and 11 family members fled the Israeli offensive “barefoot and naked.” “We had nothing. Hunger and thirst killed us, and we did not have a single shekel, nor clothes, nor a mattress, nor a blanket,” he said, speaking near his tent. Israel’s campaign in Gaza, triggered by Hamas’ Oct 7, 2023 attack on southern Israel, has driven almost the entire population of the territory from their homes. Hundreds of thousands of Palestinians now live in squalid tent camps, relying on international aid. The Israeli military said it allowed 40 trucks carrying 600 tons of flour for the World Food Program to enter the southern Gaza Strip on Sunday night, as well as 16 other food trucks. Israel has said it is working to increase the flow of aid. November saw an increase in the average number of humanitarian trucks it let into Gaza, up to 77 daily from 57 the month before, according to official Israeli figures. But the levels are still nearly the lowest of the entire 15-month war. And the U.N. says less than half of that actually reaches Palestinians because Israeli military restrictions, fighting and robberies make it too dangerous to deliver the aid. The World Food Program was able to only deliver aid to some 300,000 Palestinians in November across the Gaza Strip due to ongoing Israeli military offensives and the looting of convoys, Carl Skau, WFP’s deputy executive director, said Monday. In a tent camp in the central Gaza town of Deir al-Balah, Palestinians lined up at makeshift mud ovens trying to buy a few loaves of flatbread for their families. With the price of flour mounting because of scarcity, the bakers — women displaced from further north — said they could bake less bread, and families could afford far less. “They divide them to their children, one loaf every day,” said one woman baker, Wafaa al-Attar. Abou AlJoud reported from Beirut. Associated Press writer Fatma Khalid in Cairo contributed to this report. Follow AP’s war coverage at https://apnews.com/hub/mideast-wars

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NEWARK, N.J. (AP) — Emerance Maschmeyer turned in 34 saves on 35 shots on goal and the Ottawa Charge held off the New York Sirens 3-1 on Sunday for their second win in six games. Playing their first game in 10 days, the Charge got a first-period goal from Emily Clark and Shiann Darkangelo and Kateřina Mrázová added second-period goals to build a 3-0 lead through two periods. Ottawa has scored at least three goals in all five of its meetings with New York over two seasons. Javascript is required for you to be able to read premium content. Please enable it in your browser settings.

The Buet team, formed to investigate the deaths of three Islamic University of Technology (IUT) students due to electrocution, has held the university authorities, BRTC, and Palli Bidyut Samity (PBS) responsible for the incident. The incident occurred on Saturday in Udaykhali of Sreepur upazila, Gazipur, when the victims, along with 400 others, were traveling to Matir Maya Resort for a picnic. During a site visit on Monday, Buet Prof Ziaur Rahman Khan told reporters, "The narrow road leading to Matir Maya Resort has been raised by three feet during its latest renovation, but the power transmission line, installed around 20 years ago, was not adjusted accordingly." He added, "I also observed loosened power transmission lines in some areas, which is concerning. I fail to understand why students were being transported on a double-decker bus along such a narrow road under hazardous electrical wiring." The Buet team will submit a detailed report to the relevant authorities upon completing their investigation, he said.NEW YORK — Outfielder Austin Hays and right-hander Kyle Finnegan — both former All-Stars — and second baseman Brendan Rodgers were among 62 players who became free agents Friday when their teams failed to offer 2025 contracts. Right-hander Jordan Romano, left-hander Patrick Sandoval and outfielders Michael Tauchman and Ramón Laureano also were among the players cut loose, including 36 who would have been eligible for salary arbitration. Washington cut right-hander Tanner Rainey, its last remaining player from the 2019 World Series champions. More than 20 players agreed to contracts ahead of the deadline, including San Francisco outfielder Mike Yastrzemski ($9.25 million), Los Angeles Dodgers right-hander Tony Gonsolin ($5.4 million) and New York Yankees outfielder Trent Grisham ($5 million). Hays, 29, was an All-Star in 2023 when he hit .275 with 16 homers and 67 RBIs for Baltimore. He was traded to the Phillies last July 26 and batted .256 with two homers and six RBIs in 22 games while dealing with a kidney infection. The 33-year-old Finnegan was an All-Star this year for Washington and finished with 38 saves. In addition, Kansas City acquired second baseman Jonathan India, the 2021 NL Rookie of the Year, in a trade with Cincinnati to play alongside star shortstop Bobby Witt Jr. The Royals also acquired outfielder Joey Wiemer while sending right-hander Brady Singer to Cincinnati. Pittsburgh acquired reliever Peter Strzelecki from the Cleveland for cash. The deadline marked the last time a team could drop an arbitration-eligible player without committing to at least 30 days of termination pay if the player is released. The flurry of cuts and contracts left 169 players eligible to exchange proposed arbitration salaries with their teams on Jan. 9. Others reaching one-year deals were Baltimore third baseman Emmanuel Rivera ($1 million); Cleveland right-hander Ben Lively ($2.25 million) and left-hander Sam Hentges ($1,337,500); Detroit second baseman Zach McKinstry ($1.65 million) and third baseman Andy Ibáñez ($1.4 million); Minnesota right-hander Michael Tonkin ($1 million); Yankees right-hander JT Brubaker ($1.82 million); Texas right-handers Dane Dunning ($2.66 million) and Josh Sborz ($1.1 million); Toronto right-hander Erik Swanson ($3 million); Chicago Cubs right-handers Julian Merryweather ($1,225,000) and Keegan Thompson ($850,000); Cincinnati infielder Santiago Espinal ($2.4 million); Colorado outfielder Sam Hilliard ($1 million); Milwaukee catcher Eric Haase ($1.35 million); New York Mets right-hander Sean Reid-Foley ($800,000 in majors, $386,375 in minors); Philadelphia right-hander José Ruiz ($1,255,000) and catcher Garrett Stubbs ($925,000 in majors, $450,000 in minors); and San Francisco right-hander Austin Warren ($785,000 in majors, $350,000 in minors) Grisham can earn $250,000 in performance bonuses for plate appearances: $50,000 each for 350 and each additional 50 through 550. Ruiz can earn $45,000 in performance bonuses for games: $20,000 for 30 and $25,000 for 40. Among players reaching one-year deals on Thursday were Dodgers right-hander Dustin May ($2,135,000), Cubs catcher Matt Thaiss ($1 million in majors, $400,000 in minors), Colorado left-hander Lucas Gilbreath ($785,000) and Washington right-hander Mason Thompson ($770,000 in majors, $374,600 in minors). San Diego infielder/outfielder Tyler Wade agreed to a $900,000, one-year contract that includes an $850,000 salary this year and a $1 million team option for 2026 with a $50,000 buyout. Wade can earn $150,000 in performance bonuses each year for plate appearances: $25,000 each for 100 and 150, and $50,000 apiece for 200 and 250. In addition, the Mets agreed to minor league contracts with first baseman Joey Meneses and catcher Jakson Reetz.