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How Crypto Won The 2024 ElectionWEST PALM BEACH, Fla. (AP) — An online spat between factions of Donald Trump's supporters over immigration and the tech industry has thrown internal divisions in his political movement into public display, previewing the fissures and contradictory views his coalition could bring to the White House. The rift laid bare the tensions between the newest flank of Trump's movement — wealthy members of the tech world including billionaire Elon Musk and fellow entrepreneur Vivek Ramaswamy and their call for more highly skilled workers in their industry — and people in Trump's Make America Great Again base who championed his hardline immigration policies. The debate touched off this week when Laura Loomer , a right-wing provocateur with a history of racist and conspiratorial comments, criticized Trump’s selection of Sriram Krishnan as an adviser on artificial intelligence policy in his coming administration. Krishnan favors the ability to bring more skilled immigrants into the U.S. Loomer declared the stance to be “not America First policy” and said the tech executives who have aligned themselves with Trump were doing so to enrich themselves. Much of the debate played out on the social media network X, which Musk owns. Loomer's comments sparked a back-and-forth with venture capitalist and former PayPal executive David Sacks , whom Trump has tapped to be the “White House A.I. & Crypto Czar." Musk and Ramaswamy, whom Trump has tasked with finding ways to cut the federal government , weighed in, defending the tech industry's need to bring in foreign workers. It bloomed into a larger debate with more figures from the hard-right weighing in about the need to hire U.S. workers, whether values in American culture can produce the best engineers, free speech on the internet, the newfound influence tech figures have in Trump's world and what his political movement stands for. Trump has not yet weighed in on the rift. His presidential transition team did not respond to questions about positions on visas for highly skilled workers or the debate between his supporters online. Instead, his team instead sent a link to a post on X by longtime adviser and immigration hard-liner Stephen Miller that was a transcript of a speech Trump gave in 2020 at Mount Rushmore in which he praised figures and moments from American history. Musk, the world's richest man who has grown remarkably close to the president-elect , was a central figure in the debate, not only for his stature in Trump's movement but his stance on the tech industry's hiring of foreign workers. Technology companies say H-1B visas for skilled workers, used by software engineers and others in the tech industry, are critical for hard-to-fill positions. But critics have said they undercut U.S. citizens who could take those jobs. Some on the right have called for the program to be eliminated, not expanded. Born in South Africa, Musk was once on an a H-1B visa himself and defended the industry's need to bring in foreign workers. “There is a permanent shortage of excellent engineering talent," he said in a post. “It is the fundamental limiting factor in Silicon Valley.” Trump's own positions over the years have reflected the divide in his movement. His tough immigration policies, including his pledge for a mass deportation, were central to his winning presidential campaign. He has focused on immigrants who come into the U.S. illegally but he has also sought curbs on legal immigration , including family-based visas. As a presidential candidate in 2016, Trump called the H-1B visa program “very bad” and “unfair” for U.S. workers. After he became president, Trump in 2017 issued a “Buy American and Hire American” executive order , which directed Cabinet members to suggest changes to ensure H-1B visas were awarded to the highest-paid or most-skilled applicants to protect American workers. Trump's businesses, however, have hired foreign workers, including waiters and cooks at his Mar-a-Lago club , and his social media company behind his Truth Social app has used the the H-1B program for highly skilled workers. During his 2024 campaign for president, as he made immigration his signature issue, Trump said immigrants in the country illegally are “poisoning the blood of our country" and promised to carry out the largest deportation operation in U.S. history. But in a sharp departure from his usual alarmist message around immigration generally, Trump told a podcast this year that he wants to give automatic green cards to foreign students who graduate from U.S. colleges. “I think you should get automatically, as part of your diploma, a green card to be able to stay in this country," he told the “All-In" podcast with people from the venture capital and technology world. Those comments came on the cusp of Trump's budding alliance with tech industry figures, but he did not make the idea a regular part of his campaign message or detail any plans to pursue such changes.AstraZeneca (AZN) Reels from China Investigation and Investor Suit – Hagens Berman

His online gaming romance led to U.S. citizenship. 20 new Americans celebrate their journeys.

Russia warns of Washington's 'extremely hostile' nuclear stance before second Trump termThe morning of 26 December 2004 began quietly on Thailand’s west coast. But at 7:59am local time, a magnitude 9.0 earthquake off northern Sumatra triggered a tsunami that would devastate 14 countries and claim more than 225,000 lives. Jirawan ‘Wan’ Chaisri, from northern Thailand, now living in Sydney, can distinctly recall the events of that day. At the time, she was a massage therapist preparing to open a shop in Ao Nang, Krabi, when she noticed something unusual. Credit: Supplied/Jirawan Chaisri “The water was so low. You could see the ocean floor and fish swimming around. I had never witnessed anything like this,” she told SBS Thai. “Then, about 10 minutes later, everything went dark and still. No wind, no sound. It felt like the sky had swallowed the earth. And that’s when I heard people shouting, ‘Run, run! A giant wave is coming!’” Credit: David Longstreath/AP Photo/AAP Image Wan’s boss, the shop owner, quickly jumped in a ute, gathering workers, and sped to a nearby hill. “We raced to the foothills as the wave chased us,” Wan recalled. They sheltered overnight at Wat Tham Suea (Tiger Cave Temple). When they returned the next day, the beach was “unrecognisable”. “No restaurants, no shops. Everything was gone,” she said. 'It was complete chaos' As the waves subsided, chaos engulfed the towns. With no power or phone signals, communication was nearly impossible. Titiwarada ‘Kim’ Kemp, a former radio presenter in Phuket and now a Sunshine Coast mum, recalled how the community struggled to comprehend the scale of the disaster. “There was no mobile signal. We could only use landlines to get information from hospitals and authorities,” Kim said. “It was complete chaos, no one knew what had happened. Everyone was in shock.” The Thai Navy and emergency services mobilised quickly, racing to affected areas to search for survivors, tend to the injured and recover bodies. Credit: Rungroj Yongrit/EPA/AAP Image Pawat ‘Chicha’ Plongkham, now a tattooist in Melbourne, reflected on his experience as a young volunteer with the Ruamkatanyu Foundation. On the day of the tsunami, he drove from Bangkok to Phang Nga to assist with the relief efforts. “What we saw ... nothing could have prepared me for it,” he said. “The water had washed inland for kilometres. Debris buried so many bodies. We could only search the surface, knowing thousands remained trapped beneath. It was overwhelming.” Credit: Supplied/Pawat Plongkham Peter Baines is the founder of Hands Across the Water, an organisation established to care for 32 Thai orphans who lost their parents in the 2004 tsunami. He was part of the Australian forensic team deployed to Thailand in the aftermath of the disaster. A recipient of the Order of Australia Medal in 2014, Baines spoke to SBS Thai about the immense challenge of identifying victims. Credit: Hands Across the Water “Within days, it became clear that the death toll was going to be enormous, and many of the victims were foreign nationals. Our job was to lead the identification process, so those who had died could be returned home to their families and buried according to their beliefs,” he said. “We recovered 5,395 bodies in Thailand, which remains the world’s largest-ever disaster victim identification operation." Of the 14 affected countries, Indonesia recorded 170,000 fatalities, Sri Lanka 35,000 and India 16,000. Rebuilding and preparedness In the aftermath of the 2004 tsunami, Thailand recognised its lack of preparedness in the form of technology and warning systems to protect its citizens. Since then, Thailand's Department of Disaster Prevention and Mitigation Ministry of Interior reported that the country has invested in a multi-hazard warning system, regularly conducted tsunami drills, and developed a national disaster management plan. Credit: Barbara Walton/EPA/AAPImages A spokesperson from Australia's Bureau of Meteorology told SBS Thai that the tragedy strengthened international collaboration. “Before 2004, our tsunami warning system was basic and mainly focused on threats from the Pacific, using information from the Tsunami Warning Centre in Hawaii,” the spokesperson said in an email. “After the 2004 tsunami, we partnered internationally to create a unified tsunami monitoring and warning system for the Indian Ocean. Warnings can now be issued within 30 minutes of a large earthquake.” As Australia combats mass coral bleaching, this country issues a warning Australia, in contrast, has not faced land-threatening tsunamis on the scale of the 2004 Indian Ocean disaster. However, its coastline has recorded 50 incidents since European settlement, with most causing dangerous rips and currents rather than widespread land inundation. The most recent significant event occurred on 11 March 2011, when a tsunami reached Norfolk Island, damaging multiple houses, and sweeping one away entirely. ‘A day that never leaves you’ Twenty years later, the memories of that devastating day remain vivid for those who lived through it. Kim, who lived and worked in the affected area, still feels its weight every year. “Every December 26th, I just wish the day would pass quickly. Even though I wasn’t directly affected, it’s a day that never leaves you,” she said. Wan, a survivor who witnessed the destruction firsthand, said the experience carried a profound lesson. “Don’t take anything for granted. Life can change in an instant," she said. Listen to SBS Thai Audio on Monday and Thursday from 2pm on SBS 3. Replays from 10pm on Monday and Thursday and Saturday on SBS2. Listen to past stories from our podcast sbs.com.au/thai Return to paradise? Thailand’s famous beaches improve after tourist bans The love story behind Australia's first 'authentic' Thai restaurant Jam lost her legs to disease. Three years later, she walked the runway for fashion week Why this community is asking how a 14-year-old had access to a gun after deadly mall rampage

Nothing's guaranteed, but Bucs need to win out to give themselves best shot to make the playoffs TAMPA, Fla. (AP) — Tampa Bay's surest path to the NFL playoffs is a division championship. The Buccaneers will need help to repeat in the NFC South , but only if they first and foremost give themselves a chance. Fred Goodall, The Associated Press Dec 23, 2024 3:55 PM Dec 23, 2024 4:05 PM Share by Email Share on Facebook Share on X Share on LinkedIn Print Share via Text Message Tampa Bay Buccaneers head coach Todd Bowles, left, talks with quarterback Baker Mayfield, right, late in the second half of an NFL football game against the Dallas Cowboys in Arlington, Texas, Sunday, Dec. 22, 2024. (AP Photo/Jerome Miron) TAMPA, Fla. (AP) — Tampa Bay's surest path to the NFL playoffs is a division championship. The Buccaneers will need help to repeat in the NFC South , but only if they first and foremost give themselves a chance. That means winning their remaining games at home against Carolina and New Orleans, while the Atlanta Falcons lose at least once in the final two weeks of the regular season. The Bucs (8-7) and Falcons share the best record in the division, however Atlanta holds the tiebreaker after sweeping the season series between the teams. Tampa Bay, which has won three consecutive division titles, is the only NFC team that has made the playoffs each of the past four seasons. “We’ve got to take care of business or else we’ve got no shot,” quarterback Baker Mayfield said after a 26-24 loss at Dallas cost the Bucs control of the NFC South race. “This one, we've got to take it on the chin,” Mayfield added. “It's a short week. It's Christmas week. We've got to focus on Carolina and figure out a way to win.” If Atlanta is able to maintain its lead, Tampa Bay could make the postseason as a wild card if the Bucs win out and the Commanders lose twice. Coach Todd Bowles sounds confident that his players understand the challenge ahead and will clean up mistakes that contributed to the end of their four-game win streak. “We’ve got to win a ballgame (this week). If we don’t win a ballgame, we don’t give ourselves a chance,” Bowles said Monday. “We have to focus on us like we’ve been doing,” the coach added. “We have to correct the mistakes, and we have to go out and win Sunday, and we’ve got to win the next week, and then we’ll see what happens after that.” What's working The offense, which ranks third in the NFL at 389.8 yards per game, isn't a fluke. Despite losing to the Cowboys, Tampa Bay finished with 410 yards total offense. It was the team's fifth straight game — as well as an NFL-high ninth overall — with 400-plus yards. The Bucs are seventh in rushing (143.7 yards per game) after ranking 32nd each of the past two seasons. What needs helps The defense yielded 292 yards passing against the Cowboys, 226 of it in the first half when Cowboys WR CeeDee Lamb had six catches for 100 yards and a touchdown. Bowles said shoddy tackling was the biggest issue — not poor coverage. Lamb had one reception for 5 yards after halftime. Stock up Mayfield's chemistry with rookie WR Jalen McMillan, who has 27 receptions for 336 yards and five TDs, continues to grow. McMillan had five catches for 57 yards and a touchdown — his fourth in the past three games — against Dallas. He was also the intended receiver on Mayfield's deep throw that CB Jourdan Lewis intercepted in the end zone to help the Cowboys hold off the Bucs in the closing minutes. Stock down Turnovers were costly against Dallas. The end-zone interception stopped the Bucs from cutting into a 26-17 deficit with 6:22 remaining in the fourth quarter. Rachaad White's fumble with 1:31 left ended any hope for a last-minute victory. On both plays, defenders ripped the ball out of the grasp of the offensive player. “We knew they were going to rake at the ball going into the ballgame," Bowles said. "We just have to have two hands on the ball, and we have to fight for it. We have to take better care of the football. That’s priority No. 1.” Injuries Bowles said it's too early to project the status of several starters for coming games, including S Antoine Winfield Jr. (knee), who has missed the past two games. TE Cade Otton (knee) and LB K.J. Britt (ankle) were inactive against the Cowboys, while reserve WR Sterling Shepard left during the game with a hamstring injury. Key number 80. Bucky Irving leads all NFL rookie RBs with 920 yards rushing. He needs 80 over the next two games to reach 1,000. He scored his seventh rushing touchdown against Dallas. That tied Errict Rhett and Lars Tate for the second-most rushing TDs by a rookie running back in franchise history. Doug Martin set the record of 11 in 2012. Next up Host Carolina on Sunday. ___ NFL: https://apnews.com/hub/nfl Fred Goodall, The Associated Press See a typo/mistake? Have a story/tip? This has been shared 0 times 0 Shares Share by Email Share on Facebook Share on X Share on LinkedIn Print Share via Text Message Get your daily Victoria news briefing Email Sign Up More Football (NFL) Aiming for top seed, Lions play 49ers on road before closing regular season at home against Vikings Dec 23, 2024 4:03 PM NFL Inactive Report Dec 23, 2024 3:54 PM Rams don't dominate, but they're rolling toward the playoffs with superb complementary football Dec 23, 2024 3:52 PMPublished 5:55 pm Monday, December 23, 2024 By Daily Herald With fresh snow in many parts of the state, anglers and others recreating on the ice must keep in mind that snow can hinder ice-making and cover up potentially dangerous areas, according to the Minnesota Department of Natural Resources. In addition, it’s vital people check the ice thickness frequently, and keep in mind the DNR’s ice thickness recommendations, which apply to new, clear ice (double them for white or snow-covered ice): • More than 4 inches for ice fishing or other activities on foot. • 5-7 inches for a snowmobile or a small ATV. • 7-8 inches for a side-by-side ATV. • 9-12 inches for a car. • 13-17 inches for a truck. • More than 20 inches for a large truck with a wheelhouse shelter. DNR Graphic When measuring the thickness of the ice, measure only the clear ice – not any slush or snow that’s settled on top of it. It’s important to keep in mind, too, that ice thickness and quality can vary even within a small area on the same body of water. DNR conservation officers report lakes throughout the state are attracting increasing numbers of anglers, and they expect things will be even busier over the holidays. COs continue reminding ice recreationalists of the importance of wearing safety gear such as ice picks and a life jacket or float coat, and to check the ice for themselves – not rely on someone else’s tracks, footprints, or social media post. “We understand and share in people’s excitement for getting onto the ice and making the most of a short season,” said Col. Rodmen Smith, director of the DNR Enforcement Division. “But there’s nothing good to be gained by pushing the envelope. There are plenty of good ice-fishing opportunities out there, but please check the ice yourself and take our thickness guidelines seriously.” Every year, unexpected falls through thin ice result in serious injury or death. Checking the ice thickness with a spud bar, auger, or other device is the best way to prevent falling through. Wearing a life jacket or float coat is the best way to avert tragedy should someone fall through the ice, since the initial shock of falling into cold water can incapacitate even strong swimmers. A good set of ice picks will help the person get out, and a cell phone, whistle or other communications device makes it more likely they would be able to call for help. Make sure to let someone on shore know where you’re going and when you plan to return. For more information, visit the DNR’s ice safety (mndnr.gov/icesafety) and boating safety webpages (mndnr.gov/boatingsafety).

PANAMA CITY/COPENHAGEN: Panama’s President Jose Raul Mulino on Sunday dismissed recent threats made by US President-elect Donald Trump to retake control of the Panama Canal over complaints of “unfair” treatment of American ships. “Every square meter of the Panama Canal and its adjacent areas belongs to Panama and will continue belonging to Panama,” Mulino said in a video posted to X. Meanwhile, Greenland on Monday stressed that it was not for sale, after Trump again suggested he wanted the United States to take control of the strategic island that holds major mineral and oil reserves. Greenland’s Prime Minister Mute Egede quickly sought to quash any chance of a deal. “Greenland is ours. We are not for sale and will never be for sale. We must not lose our long struggle for freedom,” Mute Egede said in a statement. Mulino’s public comments, though never mentioning Trump by name, come a day after the president-elect complained about the canal on his Truth Social platform. “Our Navy and Commerce have been treated in a very unfair and injudicious way. The fees being charged by Panama are ridiculous,” he said. Trump also complained of China’s growing influence around the canal, a worrying trend for American interests as US businesses depend on the channel to move goods between the Atlantic and Pacific oceans. “It was solely for Panama to manage, not China, or anyone else,” Trump said. “We would and will NEVER let it fall into the wrong hands!” “Has anyone ever heard of the Panama Canal?” Trump said at AmericaFest, an annual event organized by Turning Point, an allied conservative group. “Because we’re being ripped off at the Panama Canal like we’re being ripped off everywhere else.” After the event, he posted an image on Truth Social of an American flag flying over a narrow body of water, with the comment: “Welcome to the United States Canal!” The Panama Canal, which was completed by the United States in 1914, was returned to the Central American country under a 1977 deal signed by Democratic president Jimmy Carter. Panama took full control in 1999. Trump said that if Panama could not ensure “the secure, efficient and reliable operation” of the channel, “then we will demand that the Panama Canal be returned to us, in full, and without question.” Mulino rejected Trump’s claims in his video message, though he also said he hopes to have “a good and respectful relationship” with the incoming administration. “The canal has no direct or indirect control from China, nor the European Union, nor the United States or any other power,” Mulino said. “As a Panamanian, I reject any manifestation that misrepresents this reality.” Later on Sunday, Trump responded to Mulino’s dismissal, writing on Truth Social: “We’ll see about that!” China does not control or administer the canal, but a subsidiary of Hong Kong-based CK Hutchison Holdings has long managed two ports located on the canal’s Caribbean and Pacific entrances. Trump offered to buy the vast Danish territory of Greenland during his first term in office — receiving an abrupt refusal — and he revived his push over the weekend when naming his ambassador to Copenhagen for his incoming administration. Greenland, the world’s largest island, is an autonomous Danish territory with its own parliament, about 55,000 inhabitants, and a small pro-independence movement. It relies on Denmark to fund more than half of its public budget. Trump on Sunday posted that “for purposes of National Security and Freedom throughout the World, the United States of America feels that the ownership and control of Greenland is an absolute necessity.” As president, he canceled a state trip to Denmark in 2019 after the country said Greenland was not for sale. Danish Prime Minister Mette Frederiksen at the time labelled Trump’s offer as “absurd”, leading him to term her dismissal of the idea as “nasty”. Frederiksen remains in her role of Danish prime minister. Under President Joe Biden, the United States said it did not want a purchase but instead sought to strengthen ties. The Danish government must state in clear terms that control over Greenland is not up for discussion or negotiation, member of parliament Rasmus Jarlov of the opposition Conservative Party said on social media platform X. “To the extent that US activities aim to take control of Danish territory, it must be prohibited and countered. Then they can’t be there at all,” said Jarlov, who heads parliament’s defense committee. The island, whose capital Nuuk is closer to New York than the Danish capital Copenhagen, boasts mineral, oil and natural gas wealth. But development has been slow, leaving its economy reliant on fishing and annual subsidies from Denmark. With its Pituffik air base, Greenland is strategically important for the US military and its ballistic missile early-warning system, since the shortest route from Europe to North America runs via the island. Since 2009 Greenland has held the right to declare independence from Denmark. The island of some 56,000 inhabitants, which relies on significant budget transfers from Copenhagen each year, has so far refrained from doing so. This is not the first time Trump has openly considered territorial expansion. In recent weeks, he has repeatedly mused about turning Canada into a US state, though it is unclear how serious he is about the matter. – Agencies

Dana Carvey has responded to Elon Musk ’s criticisms of his impression of him on “Saturday Night Live” earlier this month. “I can’t do Elon Musk very well,” the comedian admitted on an episode of his “ Superfly ” podcast with David Spade released Friday. “But I can do something that sounds not like anything. He has an incredible accent — South Africa, via Canada, via Pennsylvania.” Carvey, who also parodied President Joe Biden on “SNL,” added, “It’s almost like, it’s a little bit of Australian in there, a little bit of British, but it’s not totally that.” Carvey’s response comes after Musk ripped his performance on the late night sketch show’s first episode following Donald Trump winning a second term in the White House. During the episode’s cold open, Carvey impersonated the Tesla CEO. “Check it out, dark MAGA. Yeah! But seriously, I run the country now,” Carvey said while wearing a black MAGA hat. “America’s going to be like one of my rockets that’s super cool and super fun. But there’s a slight chance it could blow up, and everybody dies.” Carvey’s impression referenced Musk’s appearance during Trump’s Madison Square Garden rally on Oct. 27, where he called himself “dark, gothic MAGA.” Musk dug into Carvey and “SNL” on his social media platform, X, formerly called Twitter, in multiple posts shared after the episode’s release. “They are so mad that @realDonaldTrump won,” the SpaceX founder, who endorsed Trump in the 2024 election, wrote . Musk also addressed Carvey’s impersonation of him, saying , “Dana Carvey just sounds like Dana Carvey,” as well as calling “ SNL ” “out of touch with reality.” Other news outlets have retreated behind paywalls. At HuffPost, we believe journalism should be free for everyone. Would you help us provide essential information to our readers during this critical time? We can't do it without you. Can't afford to contribute? Support HuffPost by creating a free account and log in while you read. You've supported HuffPost before, and we'll be honest — we could use your help again . We view our mission to provide free, fair news as critically important in this crucial moment, and we can't do it without you. Whether you give once or many more times, we appreciate your contribution to keeping our journalism free for all. You've supported HuffPost before, and we'll be honest — we could use your help again . We view our mission to provide free, fair news as critically important in this crucial moment, and we can't do it without you. Whether you give just one more time or sign up again to contribute regularly, we appreciate you playing a part in keeping our journalism free for all. Already contributed? Log in to hide these messages. “SNL has been dying slowly for years, as they become increasingly out of touch with reality,” Musk said. “Their last-ditch effort to cheat the equal airtime requirements and prop up Kamala before the election only helped sink her campaign further.” Watch Carvey’s impersonation of Musk on “SNL” below. Related Sign up for Peacock to stream NBCU shows. From Our Partner

U.S. President-elect Donald Trump has vowed to repeal President Joe Biden's executive order on artificial intelligence security, setting the stage for deregulation for AI companies by nominating pro-business, pro-startups Silicon Valley leaders. The nomination of Jacob Helberg, an outspoken China critic, for a key State Department post indicates Trump’s intention to lead over China in AI, according to analysts. “We're likely to see quite a great focus on countering China when it comes to AI – beating China, when it comes to having the most advanced AI capabilities,” says Ruby Scanlon, a researcher on technology and national security at Center for a New America Security. Click here for the full story in Mandarin .

The on a New York City subway train on Sunday was "one of the most depraved crimes one person could possibly commit against another human being," New York City Police Commissioner Jessica Tisch said Monday. Police said a suspect identified as Sebastian Zapeta set the woman on fire in a parked train and sat on a nearby bench to watch her burn. Police said the suspect did not appear to know the woman and did not interact with her before the attack. The reports that in one video shared on social media, a man who appears to be the suspect walks toward the woman holding what appears to be a coat or blanket—but he used it to fan the flames, not extinguish them. Zapeta, 33, was arrested hours later after three high school students recognized him from a photo released by police and called 911. Immigration and Customs Enforcement officials said he was in the country illegally, the reports. The Guatemalan citizen was deported days after he first entered the US in 2018 but returned at a later date, officials said. Police believe the woman, who may have been homeless, was asleep when she was set on fire. Zapeta is facing murder and arson charges, the reports. Mayor Eric Adams thanked "the young New Yorkers and transit officers" who aided the capture of Zapeta, who was found on another subway train, reports. "This type of depraved behavior has no place in our subways and we are committed to working hard to ensure there is swift justice for all victims of violent crime," Adams said. reports that charges have not been filed in another subway killing on Sunday. A 69-year-old man who stabbed two people trying to rob him, killing one, is believed to have acted in self-defense. (More stories.)

Bilawal calls for collective efforts to end violence against womenWhat's New Maryland Governor Wes Moore was awarded a Bronze Star for his service during a deployment to Afghanistan 18 years ago. The governor's office confirmed that a private ceremony to award the Bronze Star was held Friday at the governor's residence in Annapolis, Maryland. Why It Matters The recognition comes months after controversy surfaced over a 2006 White House fellowship application in which Moore reportedly claimed the honor before the official paperwork was finalized. What To Know Moore, a Democrat, was recommended for the Bronze Star by his superiors during his deployment, including Lieutenant General Michael Fenzel. Both Moore and Fenzel stated that Fenzel had encouraged Moore to list the medal on his application, as it had already received the necessary approvals. At the time, then-27-year-old Wes Moore expressed concerns, but Fenzel assured him that the Bronze Star would be awarded before fellows were selected. However, the paperwork was never finalized. Shortly after completing his 11-month deployment, Moore was awarded the White House fellowship. In August, The New York Times reported that Moore had listed the Bronze Star on his fellowship application before it was officially awarded. Fenzel said that upon discovering the oversight, he immediately contacted the chief of staff to U.S. Secretary of the Army Christine Wormuth to inform them of his intent to resubmit the recommendation. He began re-creating the necessary paperwork and securing approvals from Moore's former chain of command. The Bronze Star citation was officially signed on November 19, but Governor Moore learned of the award on December 14 when Wormuth informed him personally during the Army-Navy football game, according to Moore's staff. What People Are Saying In an August statement Moore responded to the controversy surrounding the Bronze Star by saying: "While serving overseas with the Army, I was encouraged to fill out an application for the White House Fellowship by my deputy brigade commander. In fact, he helped me edit it before I sent it in. At the time, he had recommended me for the Bronze Star. He told me to include the Bronze Star award on my application after confirming with two other senior-level officers that they had also signed off on the commendation." Moore added in the statement: "Towards the end of my deployment, I was disappointed to learn that I hadn't received the Bronze Star. But I was ready to begin the next phase of my life, because the reward for service is never an award—it's the opportunity to give back to your country. When I returned home, I was focused on helping my fellow veterans, a mission I continue to advance as governor,." Fenzel presented the Bronze Star for "meritorious service" to Moore during the ceremony, pinning it on his chest, The Washington Post reported. "I'm so happy to be in a position to right a wrong," Fenzel said during the ceremony , the Post reported. This article includes reporting from The Associated Press.

Hyderabad: Cybercriminals impersonating the popular Zerodha trading app defrauded businessman Guntha Rajesh Kumar of 64 lakh. On Saturday, the cybercrime police station registered a case based on the victim's complaint, after he was targeted through a deceptive social media ad and fraudulent WhatsApp interactions. In his complaint, the 37-year-old businessman from New Bowenpally in Secunderabad, stated that he came across the fake app, initially called ‘Zeradha App' and later renamed ‘Zd Trade Pro,' through a Facebook advertisement in Sept 2024. IPL 2025 mega auction IPL Auction 2025: Who got whom IPL 2025 Auction: Updated Full Team Squads Posing as representatives of a trading group, the fraudsters created WhatsApp groups to lure victims into investing, promising substantial returns. Initially, the victim made small investments, which appeared to grow rapidly, encouraging him to eventually invest a total of 40 lakh. The scam unravelled when the victim attempted to withdraw 2.9 crore, which the app falsely displayed as his earnings. The fraudsters demanded exorbitant service charges, amounting to 20% of the funds. After paying 24.3 lakh in additional charges, the victim still couldn't access his money. Realising he had been scammed, he filed a complaint with Hyderabad cybercrime police. The criminals used multiple bank accounts and digital platforms to divert the funds. The police have filed a case under Sections 66(C) and 66(D) of the IT Act, as well as relevant IPC provisions. Inspector K Madhusudhan Rao is heading the investigation, with authorities working to track down the fraudulent accounts and arrest culprits. Zerodha, the legitimate trading platform, had previously warned users about fake apps exploiting its brand name to defraud individuals. Police have urged the public to exercise caution and verify the legitimacy of online trading platforms. This scam highlights the need for users to remain vigilant when engaging with online investment platforms, said police.Liz Repking joins us in the studio to talk about cell-phone bans in schools. Districts and schools across the country have been trying to implement this very slowly on their own with little precedent to help smooth the resistance to such a policy. Gain a better understanding of the impact of phones in schools have and support your school by communicating the positives of phone restriction to your student. For more information, visit Internet Safety Speakers, Presentations, Curriculum-Cyber Safety Experts