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top casino sites online The CPI(M) on Sunday demanded the immediate withdrawal of an election rule amendment preventing public inspection of certain electronic documents such as CCTV camera and webcasting footage. In a statement, the CPI(M) Politburo expressed its strong objection to the amendment, restricting the access of political parties and candidates to electronic records, including video and other digital trails. The government tweaked the election rule to prevent public inspection of certain electronic documents such as CCTV camera and webcasting footage as well as video recordings of candidates to check their misuse. Based on the recommendation of the Election Commission (EC), the Union law ministry on Friday amended Rule 93(2)(a) of the Conduct of Election Rules, 1961, to restrict the type of "papers" or documents open to public inspection. The CPI(M) said these steps were initially introduced by the EC in consultation with political parties to ensure greater transparency, and described as "retrograde" the move to amend the rule. Proper consultations were not carried out with political parties on the issue, it alleged. "Media reports suggest that the government held consultations with the Election Commission of India while drafting the new rules. However, the Election Commission's reported concurrence was not preceded by any consultation with political parties, contrary to the established precedents over the years," the CPI(M) said. "The government's argument, which questions the locus standi of the petitioner on the conduct of the electoral process, is specious. This approach completely excludes political parties' involvement in the procedures to be followed," the Left party said. The CPI(M) said its experience, particularly during the Lok Sabha elections in Tripura, showed that charges of rigging led to the examination of videographic records within polling booths, ultimately resulting in repolls being announced in almost half the polling booths across both constituencies. "In this era, where technology is an integral part of the electoral process, the government's move represents a retrograde step," it said. "The Politburo of the CPI(M), therefore, demands the immediate withdrawal of the proposed amendments to the Conduct of Election Rules," it added. According to Rule 93, all "papers" related to elections shall be open to public inspection. The amendment inserts "as specified in these rules" after "papers". Law ministry and EC officials separately explained that a court case was the "trigger" behind the amendment. Punjab and Haryana High Court, in the recent Mahmoud Pracha vs EC case, had directed sharing all documents related to the Haryana Assembly elections, including treating CCTV camera footage as permissible under Rule 93(2), with Pracha. While documents such as nomination forms, appointment of election agents, results and election account statements are mentioned in the Conduct of Election Rules, electronic documents such as CCTV camera footage, webcasting footage and video recording of candidates during the Model Code of Conduct period are not covered. An EC functionary said, "There have been instances where such electronic records have been sought, citing the rules. The amendment ensures that only papers mentioned in the rules are available for public inspection and any other document which has no reference in the rules is not allowed for public inspection." EC functionaries said the misuse of CCTV camera footage from inside polling booths could compromise voter secrecy. They also said the footage could be used to generate fake narrative using AI. Follow us on: Facebook , Twitter , Google News , Instagram Join our official telegram channel ( @nationalherald ) and stay updated with the latest headlines

VANCOUVER — A family of killer whales has made a rare trip into waters off downtown Vancouver for what an expert says was likely a “grocery shopping” hunt for harbour seals. Video shared on social media by False Creek Ferries shows the whales cruising past highrise towers at the entrance to False Creek on Sunday. Andrew Trites, director of the University of British Columbia’s marine mammal research unit, has identified the whales as a family group of transient orcas consisting of a mother and her three offspring. He says it’s the first time the 26-year-old mother, known as T35A, has shown up in downtown Vancouver with her children aged six, 11 and 14. Trites says the well documented family has previously been seen by marine researchers from Alaska to the Strait of Juan de Fuca south of Vancouver Island. He attributes the pod’s surprising downtown appearance to seals also changing their habits as they hide from orcas, forcing killer whales to hunt in backwater areas like False Creek. Trites says the video shows the whales moving quietly like “ghosts” to avoid alerting their prey. Killer whales have previously been spotted in False Creek, including in 2019, and in 2010 a grey whale swam all the way to the end of the inlet, near Science World. This report by The Canadian Press was first published Nov. 25, 2024. Nono Shen, The Canadian Press50 new principals for primary schools next term

The AP Top 25 men’s college basketball poll is back every week throughout the season! Get the poll delivered straight to your inbox with AP Top 25 Poll Alerts. Sign up here . YOUNGSTOWN, Ohio (AP) — Max Burton and Brandon Muntu both had 18 points in Western Michigan’s 73-62 victory against Youngstown State on Wednesday. Burton had 12 rebounds for the Broncos (3-4). Muntu went 6 of 9 from the field (4 for 4 from 3-point range). Markhi Strickland had 16 points and shot 5 of 13 from the field and 5 of 11 from the free-throw line. The Penguins (2-5) were led by EJ Farmer, who posted 20 points. Juwan Maxey added 12 points and seven assists for Youngstown State. Nico Galette finished with nine points, seven rebounds and four steals. ___ The Associated Press created this story using technology provided by Data Skrive and data from Sportradar .The loss of ITV's independence would be a blow to creative Britain, says ALEX BRUMMER By ALEX BRUMMER FOR THE DAILY MAIL Updated: 17:01 EST, 25 November 2024 e-mail View comments The possibility of a bid for ITV has perked up a lagging share price. Even so, as a creative enterprise, Britain’s leading terrestrial broadcaster looks hugely undervalued. Consider this. Almost every leading show on the small screen at present has origins in ITV Studios. The list includes the BBC series Ludwig starring David Mitchell, the Netflix hit Fool Me Once and Disney’s Rivals as well as the politically explosive Mr Bates Vs The Post Office. The biggest changes at ITV since Carolyn McCall took the helm in 2018 are the group’s income streams. Revenues from ITV Studios and streaming service ITV X climbed from 45 per cent to 60 per cent and are expected to hit 66 per cent by 2026. If one were to price ITV Studios on the same multiple as All3Media, sold to RedBird IMI in May of this year, it would be worth £3billion plus. That is more than the whole of the broadcaster, which is valued at £2.5billion following the latest 8.6 per cent rise to 71.15p in the group’s shares. Hit factory: Almost every leading show on the small screen at present, the Netflix hit Fool Me Once and Disney’s Rivals, has origins in ITV Studios If a bidder were to emerge, it would gain control of a broadcasting platform, with an ability to attract large scale audiences and linear advertising to match, for nothing. ITV is a bellwether for the UK and has suffered in recent years from the same shocks as the rest of Britain – the great financial crisis, Covid-19 and the Ukraine war. Prospects in recent months have been damaged by the lengthy interregnum between Labour’s election and the Budget. Both have caused large scale business advertisers to curtail plans. There are few better ways of reaching a large scale audience than ITV. I’m A Celebrity Get Me Out Of Here has been drawing audiences of 9m. Perpetual favourites such as Coronation Street are gold dust for advertisers. So far, no observable change in ITV’s share register has been seen. The biggest holding of 10.45 per cent is held by John Malone’s spawling media empire Liberty Global. He and his shrewd lieutenants would not want to see ITV sold on the cheap. RELATED ARTICLES Previous 1 Next Backlash grows over failure on business rates as Kingfisher... Hairdressers hit as experts say Reeves £25bn budget NI raid... Share this article Share HOW THIS IS MONEY CAN HELP How to choose the best (and cheapest) stocks and shares Isa and the right DIY investing account Activist investors on the register such as Redwheel and Silchester might take a different view. There must be the possibility that someone might want to see studios spun off as a means of releasing value. Private equity outfit CVC, mentioned as a bidder (there has been no approach), might want to get its hands on some of the sports rights. Buying ITV is not as straightforward as it might seem. The group’s licence, valid until 2034, contains obligations. These include generating output in the UK regions and devotion of airtime to news bulletins. Most importantly, however, the loss of ITV’s independence would be a blow to creative Britain. This, just at the moment when the Labour Government has remembered that it is a sector which excels and is ready for growth. Pink panthers The most shocking aspect of the Barclays agreement to pay a fine of £40million to the Financial Conduct Authority (FCA), over the bank’s Qatar fundraising in 2008, is the time it has taken to dish out the discipline. Excuses can be made for the delays, including the parallel prosecution by the equally useless Serious Fraud Office (SFO), but white-collar justice which takes 16 years is a waste of space. Since then, the Barclays board has been replenished and the bank has had to ride out another crisis over the connection of former boss Jes Staley to the late sex offender Jeffrey Epstein. In balance sheet terms, the payout is a rounding error. Britain’s system of financial enforcement is woeful. An excoriating report by MPs and the Lords accuses the FCA of being ‘incompetent at best, and dishonest at worst’. Instead of delivering swift and firm white-collar justice, the SFO finds itself with multi-million pound legal costs over the bungled prosecution of Eurasian Natural Resources Corporation (ENRC). Such humiliations have made British financial justice a laughing stock. Carbon retreat Anglo American is demonstrating that self-help is preferable than selling to a big overseas rival which would have crushed culture and ambition. The sale of its remaining steel making coal mines in Australia to Peabody Energy, once part of the UK’s Hanson conglomerate, frees up £3.1billion for investment in copper and other enterprises. De Beers next? 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That helps us fund This Is Money, and keep it free to use. We do not write articles to promote products. We do not allow any commercial relationship to affect our editorial independence. More top storiesThe holiday season is a time of giving and warmth. However, it’s also the season for opportunistic porch pirates and accidents that can turn once-vibrant Christmas trees into dangerous fire hazards. To keep everyone in Bend safe, the Bend Police Department and Bend Fire & Rescue offered tips that will keep holiday cheer from becoming holiday fear. Makayla Oliver from Bend Fire & Rescue warns that Christmas trees can pose a significant risk to homes if they dry out. To keep live indoor trees safe, place them in a cool location at least 3 feet away from heat sources such as wood or gas stoves, radiators or space heaters. Water the tree daily and discard it immediately if it becomes try and brittle. Holiday decorations, both inside and outside, can also pose a threat. Ensure these are also placed 3 feet away from heat sources and that holiday lights get inspected for frayed wires, loose bulbs and worn insulation. If there are any flaws, discard those lights immediately because they pose a fire risk. Putting up holiday decorations can also be dangerous, Oliver warned. When hanging up lights and decor, remember to place ladders on level ground free of ice, and for optimal safety, use ladders with non-slip grips. The Bend Police Department does not keep records specific to package theft, making it difficult to determine if there is an increase during the holidays. However, Sheila Miller, Bend Police spokesperson, said last holiday season, between November 2023 and January 2024, there were 291 thefts in Bend ranging from stolen bikes to stolen packages. Miller said the best way to minimize package theft is to bring items inside as quickly as possible. For important deliveries, request a signature be required upon receipt or see if packages can be delivered to a different, secure location like a workplace. “When it comes to package theft, it’s generally a crime of opportunity,” Miller said. “Most of these types of theft occur when people are at work or away from their homes — between 9 a.m. and 4 p.m., for example. If you have a neighbor or friend who can swing by to grab a package on your porch, that will help.” If a package is stolen, it should be reported, Miller said. If possible, install video surveillance so that the theft is caught on camera. Installing video surveillance can help catch the theft on camera, or even just having a camera present may deter would-be thieves. Another common problem during the holidays is driving under the influence of intoxicants. This year alone, Bend Police arrested 513 people for driving under the influence. “DUIIs are expensive and inconvenient, but driving while you’re impaired and hurting or killing yourself or someone else is a devastating and preventable outcome to your night out,” Miller said. If celebrating, Miller recommends having a safe plan to get home without driving. Some alternatives she suggested using are Cascades East Transit, a ride-share company or having a family member pick you up. “There’s no excuse to get behind the wheel in this town after you’ve been drinking or doing drugs,” Miller said. If you’re traveling away from Bend for the holidays, make sure to lock all windows and doors. Miller advises that if there aren’t locks on garden gates and sheds, those should also get installed before departure. If possible, she said, install motion sensor lights and video doorbells because “that technology can go a long way.” A common sign for thieves that a home is empty is a buildup of mail and packages. If you’ll be away for a long time, consider calling the U.S. Postal Service to put a hold on your mail and other deliveries while away, Miller said, and keep valuables out of view from windows. But property isn’t the only thing to keep safe. If traveling during the winter, Oliver recommends people carry emergency supplies in their vehicles. Recommended items include a blanket, first aid kit, gloves, reflective road triangle, water, snacks and a flashlight.

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Canada Post strike update: Union 'frustrated' with proposals, but postal service says it has yet to see formal responseOTTAWA, ON , Nov. 21, 2024 /PRNewswire/ - The Royal Canadian Mint is delighted that the one-of-a-kind 2024 10 kg 99.99% Pure Gold Coin – The Dance Screen (The Scream Too) , an exquisite numismatic tribute to the art of acclaimed Haida master carver Chief 7IDANsuu ( James Hart ), sold for $1,561,250 .00 CAD (including Buyer's Premium), after a live auction conducted by Heffel Fine Art Auction House (Heffel). This rare, pure gold masterpiece was sold to an anonymous bidder on November 20, 2024 , and beat the previous record for a coin offered at auction in Canada , held by The Ultimate , a one kilo pure platinum coin also produced by the Royal Canadian Mint. "We are thrilled by the collector interest in this unique coin and delighted that the skill of the Royal Canadian Mint and the talent of Chief 7IDANsuu ( James Hart ) have been recognized by the buyer of this rare and beautiful 10 kg pure gold masterpiece," said Marie Lemay , President and CEO of the Royal Canadian Mint. "It has been an extraordinary privilege to auction The Dance Screen (The Scream Too) 10kg pure gold coin," said David Heffel , President of Heffel Fine Art Auction House. "The profoundly significant artwork by the esteemed Chief James Hart , showcased on its face, stands as an enduring icon of Canadian art, embodying the rich traditions and cultural narratives of the Haida Nation. We are honoured to have placed this masterpiece in a distinguished collection and look forward to seeing its legacy continue to inspire." Impeccably crafted from 10 kg of 99.99% pure Canadian gold, The Dance Screen (The Scream Too) re–creates carved images from the original red cedar panel carved by Chief 7IDANsuu on its reverse. The reverse design of the flagship coin of the 2024 Opulence Collection brings together traditional Haida figures—a Shaman, the Beaver, Raven, Eagle, Frog, Orca and Mother Bear with cubs—whose life deeply depends on the Salmon, represented in human and animal form along the edge. Six pearlescent pieces of responsibly sourced abalone shell are inlayed along the coin's edge, where their aquatic hues shimmer in the light and their shapes evoke the Haida copper shields that serve as traditional markers of wealth. The imposing coin's obverse features the effigy of His Majesty King Charles III by Canadian artist Steven Rosati , surrounded by an engraving of subtle sketch lines from the original carving. About the Royal Canadian Mint The Royal Canadian Mint is the Crown corporation responsible for the minting and distribution of Canada's circulation coins. The Mint is one of the largest and most versatile mints in the world, producing award-winning collector coins, market-leading bullion products, as well as Canada's prestigious military and civilian honours. As an established London and COMEX Good Delivery refiner, the Mint also offers a full spectrum of best-in-class gold and silver refining services. As an organization that strives to take better care of the environment, to cultivate safe and inclusive workplaces and to make a positive impact on the communities where it operates, the Mint integrates environmental, social and governance practices in every aspect of its operations. For more information on the Mint, its products and services, visit www.mint.ca . Follow the Mint on LinkedIn , Facebook and Instagram . About Heffel Fine Art Auction House Since 1978, Heffel has connected passionate collectors across the world with outstanding works of art, with sales totaling nearly $1 billion . With offices in Toronto , Vancouver , Montreal , Ottawa and Calgary , Heffel has the most experienced team of fine art specialists in Canada and provides superior client service to both sellers and buyers internationally. View original content: https://www.prnewswire.com/news-releases/the-10-kg-99-99-pure-gold-the-dance-screen-the-scream-too-a-one-of-a-kind-coin-from-the-royal-canadian-mint-surpasses-1-5-million-at-heffel-auction-302313573.html SOURCE Royal Canadian Mint (RCM)These 5 Brand New Cruise Ships Will Debut In 2025

Share Tweet Share Share Email As the global population continues to grow and consumption patterns rise, the pressure on natural resources becomes increasingly unsustainable. To address these challenges, the transition to a sustainable economy has emerged as a vital priority. Waste and circular economy finance have become key enablers in this transformation, offering tools and strategies to minimize waste, enhance resource efficiency, and secure long-term economic stability. Thus, Through the lens of finance, we can unlock innovative solutions that pave the way toward a more resilient future . Understanding Waste and the Circular Economy Waste management and circular economy principles are closely intertwined. Traditional linear economic models rely on a “take-make-dispose” approach, which results in significant resource depletion and waste generation. Conversely, the circular economy aims to retain resources in use for as long as possible, extracting maximum value and then recovering and regenerating materials at the end of their lifecycle. Core Principles of the Circular Economy Design for Longevity: Products are designed with durability, repairability, and longevity in mind. Reuse and Recycling: Resources are reused and recycled to reduce dependency on virgin materials. Resource Optimization: Efficient use of resources minimizes waste generation. Turning Waste into Value: Waste is transformed into resources, energy, or products. Finance plays a crucial role in accelerating these principles by funding innovative projects, supporting sustainable businesses, and influencing policy changes. The Role of Finance in Supporting the Circular Economy Driving Innovation Through Investment Investing in research and development is essential for advancing circular economy technologies. Financial institutions, venture capitalists, and impact investors can identify and support startups working on groundbreaking solutions, such as biodegradable materials, modular products, or advanced recycling technologies. For instance, companies creating bio-based packaging or modular electronics often require financial backing to scale their operations. By funding these innovations, investors not only promote sustainability but also tap into emerging profitable markets. Leveraging Green Bonds and Sustainability Loans Green bonds and sustainability-linked loans are among the most effective tools for financing circular economy projects. These financial instruments channel capital toward initiatives that align with environmental and sustainability objectives, including waste management systems, renewable energy projects, and resource-efficient manufacturing processes. Hence, By linking loan terms to sustainability performance metrics, businesses are incentivized to adopt circular economy practices. At the same time, green bonds attract environmentally conscious investors, fostering a mutually beneficial arrangement. Public-Private Partnerships (PPPs) as Catalysts Collaboration between governments and private entities can significantly enhance the scale and efficiency of circular economy projects. Public-private partnerships (PPPs) combine the strengths of public sector support with private sector innovation, enabling the development of initiatives such as waste-to-energy plants, recycling infrastructure, and urban composting programs. Moreover, PPPs can reduce financial risks for private investors, making circular economy projects more appealing and accessible. Overcoming Challenges in Financing Circular Economy Initiatives Despite its potential, financing the circular economy faces several hurdles. Addressing these challenges is crucial to unlocking the full potential of waste reduction and resource efficiency. High Initial Investment Costs Adopting circular systems often requires substantial upfront investments. Building infrastructure for recycling, remanufacturing, and renewable energy production can be prohibitively expensive for many businesses, particularly small and medium-sized enterprises . Limited Awareness Among Stakeholders A lack of understanding about circular economy principles and their financial benefits can deter investment. Without widespread awareness, potential investors may fail to recognize the opportunities that this sector offers. Inconsistent Policies and Regulations Fragmented regulations across different regions complicate the implementation of circular economy projects. Harmonized policies, alongside targeted incentives, are needed to create an environment conducive to investment and innovation. Challenges in Measuring Impact Demonstrating the environmental and economic impacts of circular economy projects can be difficult. Transparent reporting and standardized metrics are essential to build trust and confidence among stakeholders. Financial Tools for Supporting the Circular Economy To overcome these obstacles, a variety of financial tools and mechanisms have been developed to support waste management and circular economy initiatives. Circular Economy Investment Funds Specialized investment funds focus on businesses and projects that adhere to circular economy principles. By pooling capital from diverse investors, these funds mitigate risks and amplify impact. Monetizing Carbon Credits Circular practices often lead to reduced carbon emissions. In addition, Businesses can generate additional revenue streams by trading carbon credits associated with these reductions, further incentivizing circular strategies. Crowdfunding Platforms Crowdfunding democratizes access to finance by enabling individual investors to support innovative circular economy projects. Additionally, it raises public awareness and garners community support for sustainable initiatives. Impact Investing Impact investors prioritize projects that deliver measurable environmental and social benefits alongside financial returns. Circular economy initiatives align perfectly with this approach, offering significant impacts and profitability. Insurance Products for Circular Projects Insurance solutions tailored to circular economy projects can mitigate risks associated with innovative technologies or business models. For example, insurers can provide coverage for equipment failures in recycling facilities, reducing financial uncertainties. Real-World Success Stories Several organizations have successfully leveraged financial tools to implement circular economy practices, setting a precedent for others to follow. The Ellen MacArthur Foundation The foundation collaborates with businesses, governments, and academic institutions to accelerate the global shift toward a circular economy. Through initiatives like the Circular Economy 100 program, the foundation explores innovative financing models and fosters collaboration among stakeholders. Ikea’s Circular Commitment Ikea aims to become fully circular by 2030. The company has made significant investments in renewable energy, product longevity, and recycling initiatives, demonstrating the financial viability of circular practices. Waste Management Innovations Companies like TerraCycle and Veolia have embraced circular approaches, transforming waste into valuable resources. Using advanced technologies, these firms recycle materials that were previously considered non-recyclable, showcasing the economic and environmental benefits of circular systems. Paving the Way Forward To fully realize the potential of waste and circular economy finance, collaboration among stakeholders is essential. Governments, financial institutions, businesses, and consumers must join forces to create an enabling environment for circular practices. Recommendations for Policy Support Tax Incentives: Encourage the use of recycled materials by reducing taxes on their production and consumption. Subsidizing Innovation: Provide grants or subsidies for research and development in circular economy technologies. Streamlined Regulations: Establish consistent and clear policies to guide circular economy initiatives. Capacity Building and Awareness Educating stakeholders about the economic and environmental benefits of the circular economy is critical. Workshops, training programs, and public awareness campaigns can help bridge knowledge gaps and foster adoption. Leveraging Technological Advancements Investing in advanced technologies, such as artificial intelligence for waste sorting or blockchain for supply chain transparency, can significantly enhance the efficiency of circular systems and reduce costs. Conclusion Waste and circular economy finance represent transformative tools for building a sustainable future. By embracing innovative financial instruments, fostering public-private partnerships, and addressing existing challenges, we can accelerate the global transition to a circular economy. Furthermore, Beyond environmental benefits, this transition offers opportunities for economic growth, job creation, and improved quality of life. Additionally, As stakeholders work collaboratively to implement these principles, the vision of a resilient and sustainable economy moves closer to reality . Related Items: Sustainable Economy , Waste & Circular Economy Finance Share Tweet Share Share Email CommentsNoneDale Hamilton's performance at the Yukon Agriculture Association’s North of 60 Banquet showcased alternative farming methods and highlighted the challenges and benefits of transitioning from conventional to regenerative practices. One-woman theatre performance depicted a hypothetical debate among family members with different ideas about the future of their farm. They discussed the challenges of transitioning from conventional methods to regenerative practices, which are believed by Hamilton to help mitigate climate change. Dr. Dorthea Gregoire, a program manager at Canadian Organic Growers, spoke at the banquet and provided feedback on the performance during a question-and-answer session at the Yukon public library on Nov. 24. She commented on some of the methods brought up in the performance and shared an industry perspective to making the transition to sustainable practices. “I've been working with farmers for over a decade, but what I do is help farmers transition to regenerative organic agriculture,” Gregoire said. “I came to the Yukon because I find that small mixed farms are the easiest to transition. It has the biggest, quickest payoff to make those changes.” Specific examples of alternative farming practices during the performance focused on moving away from agrichemicals and towards more diverse, regenerative and nature-based approaches. These include using biochar, a charcoal-like substance made from waste wood, to improve soil health; implementing rotational soil trampling with cattle to naturally fertilize and aerate soil; transitioning from synthetic fertilizers to natural alternatives such as rock phosphates and nitrogen-fixing plants; and planting flower strips to attract natural pest predators. Dr. Gregoire, an attendee from Manitoba, pointed out that larger scale farming operations are encumbered by high debt and cash flow restrictions, often making transitions toward new farming methods risky. She noted that federal and territorial subsidies offer Yukon farmers a good opportunity to diversify their practices while reducing financial risk. The governments of Canada and Yukon jointly fund specific agricultural projects and initiatives, according to a Yukon government (YG) webpage. The eligibility criteria broadly covers whether a farming project’s operations can help reduce greenhouse gases, promote sector growth or adds resiliency. The Sustainable Canadian Agricultural Partnership is a $3.5 billion five-year agreement between the federal, provincial and territorial governments, according to a federal government webpage. Dr. Gregoire highlighted that these subsidies can provide a safety net for farmers to experiment with new projects that meet funding eligibility criteria, as she says has been demonstrated in the Yukon. Hamilton's performance highlighted the indigenous practice of growing corn, squash, and beans together to boost crop yield. According to the Yukon government website, developing a First Nations agriculture or food system qualifies for agricultural project funding. The “Three Sisters” crop model was noted in Hamilton’s performance and is widely used by several First Nations of the Great Lakes to the St. Lawrence Lowlands regions, according to a federal government webpage on scientific achievements in agriculture. Hiring scientific consultation for assessments on projects that require a permit from the Yukon Environmental and Socio-economic Assessment Board (YESAB) is also an eligible activity for applicants of the YG agriculture fund. Hamilton's performance highlighted bio-dome wood-burning projects in Montana that use waste wood to produce biochar as a regenerative farming method. According to the Yukon Environmental and Socio-Economic Assessment Act, this technology may require assessment or permitting for agricultural facility construction. Another possible requirement for permitting regenerative agricultural activities under the act is planting "beetle banks." This involves mixing flowers with crops to attract predator insects for pest control. The British Game and Wildlife Conservation Trust trialled this project and introduced the first beetle banks to the Netherlands, according to the European Regional Development Fund. Hamilton’s performance demonstrates a model that North American growers can adopt. The Ecological Farmers Association of Ontario points out that while there are successful examples of beetle banks in North America, particularly in attracting predator beetles, these are mostly found in agroecosystems on the west coast of the United States. There are limited examples in the east or among small-scale farmers and market gardens.

The holidays are upon us and part of spending time with family means playing games, whether it's the classic relationship ruiner of Monopoly or a well-loved deck of cards. Tradition is great, but there's myriad games that are already classic and modern ones that will reshape your idea of what a board game can be. Now's the time to stock up on the latest and greatest in table top gaming. I've been playing in a weekly board game group for over 10 years, and in the time we've played hundreds of games. With that in mind, I've found several games on sale for Black Friday at Amazon that I've personally played and think you'll enjoy from silly family games to heavy strategy titles. Choosing any of these games will set you up for an evening or afternoon of enjoyment. Whichever you pick, grab it fast as these deals might not last through Black Friday. And remember to check in with us for more of the best Black Friday deals . (For more ways to save, check out our guide to this week's best Amazon promo codes ). Quick Links Board Game dealsDetroit-area library says Chicago man can keep overdue baseball book — 50 years later

Facelifted Hyundai Creta arrives with classy matte paint optionSo you’ve had a look across the pages of the Radio Times or flicked through the Electronic Programme Guide on your TV only to discover that there isn’t much taking your fancy. Well thankfully, given the huge advances in modern technology, you won’t have to make do with what broadcasters want you to watch; instead, we’ve been “blessed” with streaming platforms such as Netflix , Prime Video , Apple TV+ and Disney+ ... ... all of which just so happen to have some of the festive season’s most quintessential films, all ready for you to pick up the remote, demand to the household you’re watching ‘Die Hard’ and then start streaming away. Or something wholly different in your household - I only speak from experience. From the standards such as ‘ White Christmas ’ and ‘ How The Grinch Stole Christmas ’ to newer entries in the Christmas pantheon such as ‘ The Muppet Christmas Carol ’ or ‘ Scrooged ,’ we’ve compiled not only a list of 19 films to stream this season but where they can be streamed to. So in the (eventual) event you get bored over that sleepy time period between Christmas and New Year, why not revisit one of the classics - or soon to be modern classics? A holiday classic that brings the heart-warming tale of Charlie Brown’s quest to find the true meaning of Christmas. It’s a touching, nostalgic journey for both children and adults, featuring the iconic jazz score by Vince Guaraldi. | Disney Set in the 1940s, this beloved holiday film follows Ralphie as he dreams of getting a Red Ryder BB gun for Christmas. With its unforgettable moments and quotable lines, it’s become a perennial favourite during the holiday season. | MGM-Amazon The Muppets take on Charles Dickens’ classic tale in this musical version that brings humour, heart, and holiday cheer. Michael Caine plays Scrooge, with Kermit the Frog, Miss Piggy, and the rest of the Muppets adding their signature charm. | Disney/Jim Henson Workshop Sabrina Carpenter leads this whimsical Christmas special that blends fun and festive chaos with a fresh, musical take on the season. It’s perfect for fans of light-hearted holiday cheer. | Netflix

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The long sports-filled Thanksgiving weekend is a time when many Americans enjoy gathering with friends and family for good food, good company and hopefully not too much political conversation. Also on the menu — all the NFL and college sports you can handle. Here's a roadmap to one of the biggest sports weekends of the year, with a look at marquee games over the holiday and how to watch. All times are in EST. All odds are by BetMGM Sportsbook. What to watch Thursday • NFL: There is a triple-header lined up for pro football fans. Chicago at Detroit, 12:30 p.m., CBS: Rookie quarterback Caleb Williams and the Bears go against the Lions, who are one of the favorites to reach the Super Bowl in February. Lions favored by 10. New York at Dallas, 4:30 p.m., Fox: The Giants and Cowboys are both suffering through miserable seasons and are now using backup quarterbacks for different reasons. But if Dallas can figure out a way to win, it will still be on the fringe of the playoff race. Cowboys favored by 3 1/2. Miami at Green Bay, 8:20 p.m., NBC/Peacock: The Packers stumbled slightly out of the gate but have won six of their past seven games. They'll need a win against Miami to try to keep pace in the NFC North. Packers favored by 3. • College Football: Memphis at No. 18 Tulane, 7:30 p.m., ESPN. If college football is your jam, this is a good warmup for a big weekend. The Tigers try to ruin the Green Wave’s perfect record in the American Athletic Conference. Tulane is favored by 14. Kansas City Chiefs quarterback Patrick Mahomes works in the pocket against the Carolina Panthers during the first half of Sunday's game in Charlotte, N.C. What to watch Friday • NFL: A rare Friday showdown features the league-leading Chiefs. Las Vegas at Kansas City, 3 p.m. Prime Video: The Chiefs and quarterback Patrick Mahomes are 12-point favorites over the Raiders. • College Basketball: Some of the top programs meet in holiday tournaments around the country. Battle 4 Atlantis championship, 5:30 p.m., ESPN: One of the premier early season tournaments, the eight-team field includes No. 3 Gonzaga, No. 14 Indiana and No. 24 Arizona. Rady Children's Invitational, 6 p.m., Fox: It's the championship game for a four-team field that includes No. 13 Purdue and No. 23 Mississippi. • College Football: There is a full slate of college games to dig into. Oregon State at No. 11 Boise State, noon, Fox: The Broncos try to stay in the College Football Playoff hunt when they host the Beavers. Boise State favored by 19 1/2. Oklahoma State at No. 23 Colorado, noon, ABC: The Buffaloes and Coach Prime are still in the hunt for the Big 12 championship game when they host the Cowboys. Colorado favored by 16 1/2. Georgia Tech at No. 6 Georgia, 7:30 p.m., ABC: The Bulldogs are on pace for a spot in the CFP but host what could be a tricky game against rival Georgia Tech. Georgia favored by 19 1/2. • NBA. After taking Thanksgiving off, pro basketball returns. Oklahoma City at Los Angeles Lakers, 10 p.m., ESPN: The Thunder look like one of the best teams in the NBA's Western Conference. They'll host Anthony Davis, LeBron James and the Lakers. Los Angeles Lakers forward LeBron James dunks during the first half of a Nov. 23 game against the Denver Nuggets in Los Angeles. What to watch Saturday • College Football. There are more matchups with playoff implications. Michigan at No. 2 Ohio State, noon, Fox: The Wolverines are struggling one season after winning the national title. They could make their fan base a whole lot happier with an upset of the Buckeyes. Ohio State favored by 21. No. 7 Tennessee at Vanderbilt, noon, ABC: The Volunteers are a fairly big favorite and have dominated this series, but the Commodores have been a tough team this season and already have achieved a monumental upset over Alabama. Tennessee favored by 11. No. 16 South Carolina at No. 12 Clemson, noon, ESPN: The Palmetto State rivals are both hanging on the edge of the CFP playoff race. A win — particularly for Clemson — would go a long way toward clinching its spot in the field. Clemson favored by 2 1/2. No. 3 Texas at No. 20 Texas A&M, 7:30 p.m. ABC: The Aggies host their in-state rival for the first time since 2011 after the Longhorns joined the SEC. Texas favored by 5 1/2. Washington at No. 1 Oregon, 7:30 p.m., NBC: The top-ranked Ducks have been one of the nation’s best teams all season. They’ll face the Huskies, who would love a marquee win in coach Jedd Fisch’s first season. Oregon favored by 19 1/2. • NBA: A star-studded clash is part of the league's lineup. Golden State at Phoenix, 9 p.m., NBA TV: Steph Curry and the Warriors are set to face the Suns' Big Three of Kevin Durant, Devin Booker and Bradley Beal. What to watch Sunday • NFL: It's Sunday, that says it all. Pittsburgh at Cincinnati, 1 p.m., CBS: Joe Burrow is having a great season for the Bengals, who are struggling in other areas. They need a win to stay in the playoff race, hosting a Steelers team that's 8-3 and won five of their past six. Bengals favored by 3. Arizona at Minnesota, 1 p.m., Fox: The Cardinals are tied for the top of the NFC West while the Vikings are 9-2 and have been one of the biggest surprises of the season with journeyman Sam Darnold under center. Vikings favored by 3 1/2. Philadelphia at Baltimore, 4:25 p.m., CBS: Two of the league's most electric players will be on the field when Saquon Barkley and the Eagles travel to face Lamar Jackson and the Ravens. Ravens favored by 3. San Francisco at Buffalo, 8:20 p.m. NBC/Peacock: The 49ers try to get back to .500 against the Bills, who have won six straight. Bills favored by 7. • NBA. The best teams in the Eastern Conference meet in a statement game. Boston at Cleveland, 6 p.m., NBA TV: The defending champion Celtics travel to face the Cavs, who won their first 15 games to start the season. • Premier League: English soccer fans have a marquee matchup. Manchester City at Liverpool, 11 a.m., USA Network/Telemundo. The two top teams meet with Manchester City trying to shake off recent struggles. • Auto Racing: The F1 season nears its conclusion. F1 Qatar Grand Prix, 11 a.m., ESPN2 – It's the penultimate race of the season. Max Verstappen already has clinched his fourth consecutive season championship. Before the 2023 National Football League season started, it seemed inevitable that Bill Belichick would end his career as the winningest head coach in league history. He had won six Super Bowls with the New England Patriots and 298 regular-season games, plus 31 playoff games, across his career. Then the 2023 season happened. Belichick's Patriots finished 4-13, the franchise's worst record since 1992. At the end of the year, Belichick and New England owner Robert Kraft agreed to part ways. And now, during the 2024 season, Belichick is on the sideline. He's 26 wins from the #1 spot, a mark he'd reach in little more than two seasons if he maintained his .647 career winning percentage. Will he ascend the summit? It's hard to tell. Belichick would be 73 if he graced the sidelines next season—meaning he'd need to coach until at least 75 to break the all-time mark. Only one other NFL coach has ever helmed a team at age 73: Romeo Crennel in 2020 for the Houston Texans. With Belichick's pursuit of history stalled, it's worth glancing at the legends who have reached the pinnacle of coaching success. Who else stands among the 10 winningest coaches in NFL history? Stacker ranked the coaches with the most all-time regular-season wins using data from Pro Football Reference . These coaches have combined for 36 league championships, which represents 31.6% of all championships won throughout the history of pro football. To learn who made the list, keep reading. You may also like: Ranking the biggest NFL Draft busts of the last 30 years - Seasons coached: 23 - Years active: 1981-2003 - Record: 190-165-2 - Winning percentage: .535 - Championships: 0 Dan Reeves reached the Super Bowl four times—thrice with the Denver Broncos and once with the Atlanta Falcons—but never won the NFL's crown jewel. Still, he racked up nearly 200 wins across his 23-year career, including a stint in charge of the New York Giants, with whom he won Coach of the Year in 1993. In all his tenures, he quickly built contenders—the three clubs he coached were a combined 17-31 the year before Reeves joined and 28-20 in his first year. However, his career ended on a sour note as he was fired from a 3-10 Falcons team after Week 14 in 2003. - Seasons coached: 23 - Years active: 1969-91 - Record: 193-148-1 - Winning percentage: .566 - Championships: 4 Chuck Noll's Pittsburgh Steelers were synonymous with success in the 1970s. Behind his defense, known as the Steel Curtain, and offensive stars, including Terry Bradshaw, Franco Harris, and Lynn Swann, Noll led the squad to four Super Bowl victories from 1974 to 1979. Noll's Steelers remain the lone team to win four Super Bowls in six years, though Andy Reid and Kansas City could equal that mark if they win the Lombardi Trophy this season. Noll was elected to the Pro Football Hall of Fame in 1993, two years after retiring. His legacy of coaching success has carried on in Pittsburgh—the club has had only two coaches (Bill Cowher and Mike Tomlin) since Noll retired. - Seasons coached: 21 - Years active: 1984-98, 2001-06 - Record: 200-126-1 - Winning percentage: .613 - Championships: 0 As head coach of Cleveland, Kansas City, Washington, and San Diego, Marty Schottenheimer proved a successful leader during the regular season. Notably, he was named Coach of the Year after turning around his 4-12 Chargers team to a 12-4 record in 2004. His teams, however, struggled during the playoffs. Schottheimer went 5-13 in the postseason, and he never made it past the conference championship round. As such, the Pennsylvania-born skipper is the winningest NFL coach never to win a league championship. - Seasons coached: 25 - Years active: 1946-62, '68-75 - Record: 213-104-9 - Winning percentage: .672 - Championships: 7 The only coach on this list to pilot a college team, Paul Brown, reached the pro ranks after a three-year stint at Ohio State and two years with the Navy during World War II. He guided the Cleveland Browns—named after Brown, their first coach—to four straight titles in the fledgling All-America Football Conference. After the league folded, the ballclub moved to the NFL in 1950, and Cleveland continued its winning ways, with Brown leading the team to championships in '50, '54, and '55. He was fired in 1963 but returned in 1968 as the co-founder and coach of the Cincinnati Bengals. His other notable accomplishments include helping to invent the face mask and breaking pro football's color barrier . - Seasons coached: 33 - Years active: 1921-53 - Record: 226-132-22 - Winning percentage: .631 - Championships: 6 An early stalwart of the NFL, Curly Lambeau spent 29 years helming the Green Bay Packers before wrapping up his coaching career with two-year stints with the Chicago Cardinals and Washington. His Packers won titles across three decades, including the league's first three-peat from 1929-31. Notably, he experienced only one losing season during his first 27 years with Green Bay, cementing his legacy of consistent success. Born in Green Bay, Lambeau co-founded the Packers and played halfback on the team from 1919-29. He was elected to the Hall of Fame as a coach and owner in 1963, two years before his death. You may also like: Countries with the most active NFL players - Seasons coached: 29 - Years active: 1960-88 - Record: 250-162-6 - Winning percentage: .607 - Championships: 2 The first head coach of the Dallas Cowboys, Tom Landry held the position for his entire 29-year tenure as an NFL coach. The Cowboys were especially dominant in the 1970s when they made five Super Bowls and won the big game twice. Landry was known for coaching strong all-around squads and a unit that earned the nickname the "Doomsday Defense." Between 1966 and 1985, Landry and his Cowboys enjoyed 20 straight seasons with a winning record. He was elected to the Hall of Fame in 1990. - Seasons coached: 26 - Years active: 1999-present - Record: 267-145-1 - Winning percentage: .648 - Championships: 3 The only active coach in the top 10, Andy Reid has posted successful runs with both the Philadelphia Eagles and Kansas City. After reaching the Super Bowl once in 14 years with the Eagles, Reid ratcheted things up with K.C., winning three titles since 2019. As back-to-back defending champions, Reid and Co. are looking this season to become the first franchise to three-peat in the Super Bowl era and the third to do so in NFL history after the Packers of 1929-31 and '65-67. Time will tell if Reid and his offensive wizardry can lead Kansas City to that feat. - Seasons coached: 40 - Years active: 1920-29, '33-42, '46-55, '58-67 - Record: 318-148-31 - Winning percentage: .682 - Championships: 6 George Halas was the founder and longtime owner of the Chicago Bears and coached the team across four separate stints. Nicknamed "Papa Bear," he built the ballclub into one of the NFL's premier franchises behind players such as Bronko Nagurski and Sid Luckman. Halas also played for the team, competing as a player-coach in the 1920s. The first coach to study opponents via game film, he was once a baseball player and even made 12 appearances as a member of the New York Yankees in 1919. He was inducted into the Hall of Fame in 1963 as both a coach and owner. - Seasons coached: 33 - Years active: 1963-95 - Record: 328-156-6 - Winning percentage: .677 - Championships: 2 The winningest head coach in NFL history is Don Shula, who first coached the Baltimore Colts (losing Super Bowl III to Joe Namath and the New York Jets) for seven years before leading the Miami Dolphins for 26 seasons. With the Fins, Shula won back-to-back Super Bowls in 1972 and 1973, a run that included a 17-0 season—the only perfect campaign in NFL history. He also coached quarterback great Dan Marino in the 1980s and '90s, but the pair made it to a Super Bowl just once. Shula was inducted into the Hall of Fame in 1997. Story editing by Mike Taylor. Copy editing by Robert Wickwire. Photo selection by Lacy Kerrick. You may also like: The 5 biggest upsets of the 2023-24 NFL regular season Respond: Write a letter to the editor | Write a guest opinion Subscribe to stay connected to Tucson. A subscription helps you access more of the local stories that keep you connected to the community. Be the first to know Get local news delivered to your inbox!

NoneThe International Criminal Court on Thursday for Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu, his former defense minister and a Hamas military leader, and crimes against humanity. The announcement came as health officials in the Gaza Strip said the death toll from between Israel and Hamas has surpassed 44,000. The warrant marked the first time that a sitting leader of a major Western ally has been accused of war crimes and crimes against humanity by a global court of justice. The ICC panel said there were reasonable grounds to believe that both Netanyahu and his ex-defense minister bear responsibility for the war crime of starvation and the crimes against humanity of murder, persecution and other inhumane acts. Israel’s war has caused heavy destruction across Gaza, decimated parts of the territory and driven almost the entire population of 2.3 million people from their homes, leaving most dependent on aid to survive. Israel launched its war in Gaza after Hamas-led militants stormed into southern Israel on Oct. 7, 2023, killing some 1,200 people, mostly civilians, . Around 100 hostages are still inside Gaza, at least a third of whom are believed to be dead. Here’s the Latest: UNITED NATIONS -- The U.N. humanitarian chief for Gaza is warning that the delivery of critical food, water, fuel and medical supplies is grinding to a halt throughout the territory and “the survival of two million people hangs in the balance.” Muhannad Hadi said in a statement Thursday that Israeli authorities have been banning commercial imports for more than six weeks and at the same time thefts from humanitarian convoys by armed individuals have surged. “In 2024, U.N. trucks have been looted 75 times –- including 15 such attacks since Nov. 4 alone –- and armed people have broken into U.N. facilities on 34 occasions,” he said. Last week, one driver was shot in the head and hospitalized along with another truck driver, Hadi said. And on Saturday 98 trucks were looted in a single attack which saw the vehicles damaged or stolen. The Gaza humanitarian coordinator said bakeries are closing because of lack of flour or fuel to operate generators. “Palestinian civilians are struggling to survive under unlivable conditions, amid relentless hostilities,” Hadi said. He demanded the immediate improvement of security and conditions throughout Gaza to allow the safe and unimpeded delivery of humanitarian aid “through lawful means.” Israel says it puts no limit on the supplies permitted into Gaza, and it blames the U.N. distribution system. But Israel’s official figures show the amount of aid it has let in has plunged since the beginning of October. The U.N has blamed Israeli military restrictions, along with widespread lawlessness that has led to theft of aid shipments. WASHINGTON — The White House fundamentally rejects the International Criminal Court’s decision to issue arrest warrants for senior Israeli officials, press secretary Karine Jean-Pierre said Thursday. She said the Biden administration was “deeply concerned by the prosecutor’s rush to seek arrest warrants and the troubling process errors that led to this decision.” The Biden administration has increased its warnings and appeals to Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu to do more to spare civilians in airstrikes and other attacks, and to allow more aid to reach Gaza. However, a 30-day Biden administration deadline came and went earlier this month for Israel to meet specific U.S. targets to improve trapped in the war. U.S. demands included that Israel lift a near-total ban on delivery of aid to hard-hit north Gaza for starving civilians there. KHAN YOUNIS, Gaza Strip — The three children were playing outside a cluster of tents housing displaced people in the Gaza Strip when an Israeli airstrike killed them, along with six other people. It’s become a grim, near-daily ritual more than 13 months into the Israel-Hamas war, which local health authorities said Thursday has killed over 44,000 Palestinians. Israel carries out frequent strikes against what it says are militants hiding in civilian areas, and women and children are nearly always among the dead. Wednesday’s strike killed Hamza al-Qadi, 7, his brother Abdulaziz, 5, and their sister Laila, 4, in a tent camp in the southern city of Khan Younis. Areej al-Qadi, their mother, says they were playing outside when they were killed. “All that’s left of them are their notebooks, their books and a blood-stained jacket,” she said as she broke into tears. “They were children who did nothing.” The Israeli military did not respond to a request for comment on the strike. Gaza’s Health Ministry said Thursday that 44,056 Palestinians have been killed and 104,268 wounded since the start of the war, which was ignited by Hamas’ Oct. 7 attack into Israel. Palestinian militants killed some 1,200 people that day, mostly civilians, and abducted around 250 people. The Health Ministry does not say how many of those killed in Gaza were fighters but says women and children make up more than half the fatalities. Israel, which rarely comments on individual strikes, says it has killed over 17,000 militants, without providing evidence. Hours after the ministry announced the latest toll, the International Criminal Court issued arrest warrants against Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu, his former defense minister and a Hamas military leader. Mahmoud bin Hassan, the children’s father, said he buried them on Thursday. He asked when the international community would take action to stop the war. “When the entire Palestinian population has been killed?” he said. NEW YORK — Human Rights Watch applauded the International Criminal Court's arrest warrants issued Thursday against both Israeli and Hamas officials. The warrants “break through the perception that certain individuals are beyond the reach of the law,” the associate international justice director at Human Rights Watch, Balkees Jarrah, said in a statement. The New York-based rights group earlier this month released a report saying Israel has committed war crimes and crimes against humanity in the Gaza Strip, including massive forced displacements that amount to ethnic cleansing. JERUSALEM — Israeli prosecutors have charged a former aide to Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu with leaking classified documents to international media, apparently to protect the Israeli leader from criticism as a hostage deal was collapsing. Eli Feldstein, a former media adviser to Netanyahu, was charged Thursday with leaking classified information with the intent of harming state security and obstruction of justice. The leaked documents are said to have formed the basis of a widely discredited article in the London-based Jewish Chronicle — — suggesting Hamas planned to spirit hostages out of Gaza through Egypt, and an article in Germany’s Bild newspaper that said Hamas was drawing out the hostage talks as a form of psychological warfare on Israel. Critics say the leaks were aimed at giving Netanyahu political cover as the case-fire talks ground to a halt. Some have accused Netanyahu of resisting a deal in to preserve his governing coalition, which includes hard-line members who have threatened to bring down the government if he makes concessions to Hamas. The leaks came at a time of public uproar over the deaths of six hostages who were killed by their Hamas captors as Israeli soldiers were closing in. The indictment said the leaks were meant “to create media influence on the public discourse in Israel in regards to the handling of the hostage situation, after the news of the murder of six hostages.” The indictment identified two other Netanyahu aides as being connected to the scheme, but only Feldstein and an unidentified reservist in Israeli military intelligence were charged. Netanyahu, who denies the accusations, has not been identified as a suspect in the burgeoning investigation. Israeli media say if convicted, Feldstein could potentially face life in prison. JERUSALEM -- The Israeli military has launched an investigation into the death of a 70-year-old Israeli man who entered Lebanon with Israeli forces and was killed in a Hezbollah ambush. Investigators are trying to determine, among other things, who allowed Zeev Erlich into the combat zone with the forces and why he was permitted to enter. According to Israeli media reports, Erlich was not on active duty when he was shot, but was wearing a military uniform and had a weapon. The army said he was a reservist with the rank of major and identified him as a “fallen soldier” when it announced his death. Erlich was a well-known West Bank settler and researcher of Jewish history. Media reports said Erlich was permitted to enter Lebanon to explore a local archaeological site. The army said a 20-year-old soldier was killed in the same incident, while an officer was badly wounded. The army announced Thursday that the chief of staff, Lt. Gen. Herzi Halevi, has appointed a team of experts “to examine and strengthen operational discipline and military culture” following the incident. It said its commander for northern Israel, Maj. Gen. Ori Gordin, would launch a separate “command inquiry,” while Israeli military police conduct a separate probe. Such investigations can lead to criminal charges. BEIRUT — At least 29 people were killed Thursday in Israeli strikes on different towns and villages across Lebanon, according to Lebanon’s Health Ministry and state-run media. In eastern Lebanon, Israeli airstrikes killed 26 people in six different towns in Baalbek province, the health ministry and the National News Agency said. In Tyre province, southern Lebanon, three people were killed in an Israeli strike, the health ministry said. The health ministry Wednesday said that over 3,550 people have been killed in the 13-month war between Hezbollah and Israel, the majority following Israel’s escalation in late September. The European Union's foreign policy chief has underlined that the arrest warrants issued by the International Criminal Court against Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu and Hamas officials are a legal and not political matter, and that they are binding on all 27 EU member countries and other signatories to the ICC to implement. “The tragedy in Gaza has to stop," Josep Borrell told reporters during a visit to Jordan. “It is not a political decision. It is the decision of an international court of justice, and the decision of the court has to be respected, and implemented.” “This decision is a binding decision on all state parties of the court, which include all members of the European Union," he added. ANKARA — Turkish President Recep Tayyip Erdogan’s ruling partyhas welcomed the decision by the International Criminal Court to issue arrest warrants against Israeli Prime Minister Benjamn Netanyahu and former Defense Minister Yoav Gallant, calling it a judgement made for the sake of “humanity.” Omer Celik, spokesman for the Erdogan’s party, said on the social media platform X that Netanyahu and Gallant would “eventually be held accountable for genocide.” Celik also criticised Israeli officials who described the ICC decision as antisemitic. Turkey is among the most vocal critics of Israel’s military actions in Gaza and has submitted a formal request to join a genocide case that South Africa has filed against Israel at the U.N.’s International Court of Justice. Dutch foreign minister Caspar Veldkamp, whose country hosts the International Criminal Court, has confirmed The Netherlands would arrest Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu if he arrived on Dutch soil. “The line from the government is clear. We are obliged to cooperate with the ICC ... we abide 100% by the Rome Statute,” he said in response to a question in parliament Thursday. Other European officials were more cautious. In France, a spokesman for the Foreign Ministry said he supported the International Criminal Court's prosecutor but declined to comment when asked more specifically if France would arrest Netanyahu if he were to step on French soil. “Today, combating impunity is our priority. We ratified the ICC Statute in 2000 and have consistently supported the court’s actions. Our response will align with these principles,” Christophe Lemoine told reporters at a press conference. Lemoine added that the warrants were “a complex legal issue ... It’s a situation that requires a lot of legal precautions.” In Italy, the foreign and justice ministries didn’t immediately respond to emails seeking comment about whether Italy, an ICC member which hosted the Rome conference that gave birth to the court, would honor the arrest warrant. Premier Giorgia Meloni hosted Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu in March 2023 and has strongly supported Israel since Oct. 7, while providing humanitarian aid for Palestinians in Gaza. JERUSALEM — Israel’s mostly ceremonial president, Isaac Herzog, has called the International Criminal Court's arrest warrants against Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu “a dark day for justice. A dark day for humanity.” In a post on X, he said the international court “has chosen the side of terror and evil over democracy and freedom, and turned the very system of justice into a human shield for Hamas’ crimes against humanity." Israel Katz, Israel’s new defense minister, said the decision was “a moral disgrace, entirely tainted by antisemitism, and drags the international judicial system to an unprecedented low.” He said it “serves Iran, the head of the snake, and its proxies.” Benny Gantz, a retired general and political rival to Netanyahu, also condemned the decision, saying it showed “moral blindness” and was a “shameful stain of historic proportion that will never be forgotten.” Hamas has welcomed the decision by the International Criminal Court to issue warrants against Israeli President Benjamin Netanyahu and his former defense minister Yoav Gallant, calling it an “important and historic precedent” after what it said was decades of injustice at the hands of a “fascist occupation.” The statement did not refer to the warrants issued for the militant group’s own leaders. Hamas called on all nations to “cooperate with the court in bringing the Zionist war criminals, Netanyahu and Gallant, to justice, and to work immediately to stop the crimes of genocide against innocent civilians in the Gaza Strip.” DEIR AL-BALAH, The Gaza Strip — Bakeries have reopened in the central Gaza Strip after being closed for several days because of flour shortages. The shortages appear to have been linked to by armed men in southern Gaza last weekend. Associated Press footage showed a crowd of hundreds pushing and shouting outside a bakery in the central city of Deir al-Balah on Thursday. The day before the reopening, the price of a bag of 15 loaves of pita bread had climbed above $13. “In my house, there is not a morsel of bread, and the children are hungry,” said Sultan Abu Sultan, who was displaced from northern Gaza during the war. The amount of aid entering Gaza plunged in October as Israel launched a major offensive in the isolated north, where . Hunger is widespread across the territory, even in central Gaza where aid groups have more access. Humanitarian organizations say Israeli restrictions, ongoing fighting and the breakdown of law and order make it difficult to deliver assistance. Israel’s offensive, launched after Hamas’ October 2023 attack, has displaced around 90% of Gaza’s population of 2.3 million people. Hundreds of thousands are crammed into tent camps with little in the way of public services and are reliant on international food aid. NICOSIA — The president of Cyprus says the European Union must play a bigger role in the Middle East as it can no longer stand by as an observer. President Nikos Christodoulides said the 27-member bloc needs to establish closer ties with countries that bolster regional stability like Egypt, Jordan and the Gulf states. “The conflict in the Middle East is taking place on the EU’s doorstep, in an area of vital interest to the bloc’s interests, where any escalation or regional spillover will have significant consequences on its security and stability,” Christodoulides told an Economist conference in the Cypriot capital. Christodoulides said EU member Cyprus for years has tried to get this message across to Brussels. The island nation earlier this year was the staging ground for a maritime corridor delivering some 20,000 tons of humanitarian aid to Gaza. The EU is wracked by members’ divisions over how peace should come about in the Middle East THE HAGUE — The International Criminal Court issued arrest warrants on Thursday for Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu, his former defense minister and Hamas officials, accusing them of war crimes and crimes against humanity over the war in Gaza and the October 2023 attacks that triggered Israel’s offensive in the Palestinian territory. The decision turns Netanyahu and the others into internationally wanted suspects and is likely to further isolate them and complicate efforts to negotiate a cease-fire to end the 13-month conflict. But its practical implications could be limited since Israel and its major ally, the United States, are not members of the court and several of the Hamas officials have been subsequently killed in the conflict. Netanyahu and other Israeli leaders have previously condemned ICC Chief Prosecutor Karim Khan’s request for the warrants as disgraceful and antisemitic. U.S. President Joe Biden also blasted the prosecutor and expressed support for Israel’s right to defend itself against Hamas. Hamas also slammed the request. The death toll in the Gaza Strip from between Israel and Hamas has surpassed 44,000, local health officials said Thursday. The Gaza Health Ministry does not distinguish between civilians and combatants in its count, but it has said that more than half of the fatalities are women and children. The Israeli military says it has killed over 17,000 militants, without providing evidence. The Health Ministry said 44,056 people have been killed and 104,268 wounded since the start of the war. It has said the real toll is higher because thousands of bodies are buried under rubble or in areas that medics cannot access. The war began when Hamas-led militants stormed into southern Israel on Oct. 7, 2023, killing some 1,200 people, mostly civilians, . Around 100 hostages are still inside Gaza, at least a third of whom are believed to be dead. Most of the rest were released during a cease-fire last year. Around 90% of Gaza's population of 2.3 million people have been displaced, often multiple times, and hundreds of thousands are living in squalid tent camps with little food, water or basic services. Israel says it tries to avoid harming civilians and blames their deaths on Hamas because the militants operate in residential areas, where they have built tunnels, rocket launchers and other military infrastructure. JERUSALEM — A rocket fired from Lebanon killed a man and wounded two others in northern Israel on Thursday, according to the Magen David Adom rescue service. The service said paramedics found the body of the man in his 30s near a playground in the town of Nahariya, near the border with Lebanon, after a rocket attack on Thursday. Israel meanwhile struck targets in southern Lebanon and several buildings south of Beirut, the Lebanese capital, after warning people to evacuate.

In the wake of ChatGPT's dramatic arrival two years ago, companies are excited about generative AI's possibilities but heading into 2025 with careful deliberation rather than rushing to transform their operations. The Channel Tunnel, one of the world's most strained travel checkpoints, presents a compelling example of AI's current limitations and practical applications. Each day, 400 of the world's largest locomotives cross the tunnel linking France and Britain, with nearly 11 million rail passengers and 2 million cars carried through annually. For GetLink, the company managing the 800-meter-long trains, caution around AI implementation remains paramount. "We're in a highly regulated business. We're not kidding around. These are very strict procedures," explained Denis Coutrot, GetLink's Chief Data and AI officer. Rather than controlling train operations, their AI primarily handles more mundane tasks like searching through rules and regulations. The legal sector, initially viewed as prime for AI disruption, tells a similar story. "ChatGPT is obviously incredible. But it's really quite hard to apply it in your day-to-day workflows in a way that is impactful," noted James Sutton, founder and CEO of Avantia Law. While AI excels at basic tasks like searching legal databases and generating simple summaries, more complex work requires careful human oversight. Sutton explained that AI's inconsistency remains a challenge: "One contract I can put in and the AI kicks it out perfectly. Another one will be 40 percent right. That lack of certainty means lawyers still have to verify everything." The tech industry presents a more aggressive adoption curve. Google reports that 25 percent of its coding is now handled by generative AI. JetBrains CEO Kirill Skrygan predicts that by next year, AI will handle about 75-80 percent of all coding tasks. "Developers are using AI as assistants to generate code, and these numbers are growing every day," said Skrygan at the Web Summit in Lisbon. "The next level is coding agents that can resolve entire tasks usually assigned to developers." He suggested that over time, these agents could replace virtually all of the world's millions of developers. Visual design industries, particularly fashion, are seeing significant impact from AI image generators like DALL-E, Midjourney, and Stable Diffusion. These tools are already transforming work habits and shortening time-to-market for new collections. In healthcare, despite a study showing AI's potential —including one where ChatGPT outperformed human doctors in diagnosis from case histories — practitioners remain hesitant to fully embrace the technology. "They didn’t listen to AI when AI told them things they didn’t agree with," Dr. Adam Rodman, who carried out the study, told the New York Times. Companies face a complex calculation between innovation, prudence and how much they are willing to spend. "It will take some time for the market to sort out all of these costs and benefits, especially in an environment where companies are already feeling hesitation around technology investments," observed Seth Robinson, VP for industry research at CompTIA. Anant Bhardwaj, CEO of Instabase, believed that AI's limitations were real but temporary. "The real new innovation, like new physics or new ways of space exploration, those are still beyond the reach of AI... If people think that AI can solve every single human problem, the answer today is 'No.'" While AI excels at processing existing patterns and data, Bhardwaj argued it lacks the human curiosity needed to explore truly new frontiers. But he predicted that within the next decade, most industries will have some form of AI-driven operations, with humans in the backseat, but complete AI autonomy remains distant. Still, the disruption caused by AI is coming hard and fast, and countries must be prepared. "White collar process work is hugely impacted, that's already happening. Call centers is already happening," Professor Susan Athey of Stanford University told a statistics conference at the IMF. Athey, an economist of the tech industry, expressed worry about regions where a core profession such as call centers risked being swept away by AI. "Those are ones I would really watch very carefully. Any country that specializes in call centers, I'm very concerned about that country," she said.

OTTAWA, ON , Nov. 21, 2024 /PRNewswire/ - The Royal Canadian Mint is delighted that the one-of-a-kind 2024 10 kg 99.99% Pure Gold Coin – The Dance Screen (The Scream Too) , an exquisite numismatic tribute to the art of acclaimed Haida master carver Chief 7IDANsuu ( James Hart ), sold for $1,561,250 .00 CAD (including Buyer's Premium), after a live auction conducted by Heffel Fine Art Auction House (Heffel). This rare, pure gold masterpiece was sold to an anonymous bidder on November 20, 2024 , and beat the previous record for a coin offered at auction in Canada , held by The Ultimate , a one kilo pure platinum coin also produced by the Royal Canadian Mint. "We are thrilled by the collector interest in this unique coin and delighted that the skill of the Royal Canadian Mint and the talent of Chief 7IDANsuu ( James Hart ) have been recognized by the buyer of this rare and beautiful 10 kg pure gold masterpiece," said Marie Lemay , President and CEO of the Royal Canadian Mint. "It has been an extraordinary privilege to auction The Dance Screen (The Scream Too) 10kg pure gold coin," said David Heffel , President of Heffel Fine Art Auction House. "The profoundly significant artwork by the esteemed Chief James Hart , showcased on its face, stands as an enduring icon of Canadian art, embodying the rich traditions and cultural narratives of the Haida Nation. We are honoured to have placed this masterpiece in a distinguished collection and look forward to seeing its legacy continue to inspire." Impeccably crafted from 10 kg of 99.99% pure Canadian gold, The Dance Screen (The Scream Too) re–creates carved images from the original red cedar panel carved by Chief 7IDANsuu on its reverse. The reverse design of the flagship coin of the 2024 Opulence Collection brings together traditional Haida figures—a Shaman, the Beaver, Raven, Eagle, Frog, Orca and Mother Bear with cubs—whose life deeply depends on the Salmon, represented in human and animal form along the edge. Six pearlescent pieces of responsibly sourced abalone shell are inlayed along the coin's edge, where their aquatic hues shimmer in the light and their shapes evoke the Haida copper shields that serve as traditional markers of wealth. The imposing coin's obverse features the effigy of His Majesty King Charles III by Canadian artist Steven Rosati , surrounded by an engraving of subtle sketch lines from the original carving. About the Royal Canadian Mint The Royal Canadian Mint is the Crown corporation responsible for the minting and distribution of Canada's circulation coins. The Mint is one of the largest and most versatile mints in the world, producing award-winning collector coins, market-leading bullion products, as well as Canada's prestigious military and civilian honours. As an established London and COMEX Good Delivery refiner, the Mint also offers a full spectrum of best-in-class gold and silver refining services. As an organization that strives to take better care of the environment, to cultivate safe and inclusive workplaces and to make a positive impact on the communities where it operates, the Mint integrates environmental, social and governance practices in every aspect of its operations. For more information on the Mint, its products and services, visit www.mint.ca . Follow the Mint on LinkedIn , Facebook and Instagram . About Heffel Fine Art Auction House Since 1978, Heffel has connected passionate collectors across the world with outstanding works of art, with sales totaling nearly $1 billion . With offices in Toronto , Vancouver , Montreal , Ottawa and Calgary , Heffel has the most experienced team of fine art specialists in Canada and provides superior client service to both sellers and buyers internationally. View original content: https://www.prnewswire.com/news-releases/the-10-kg-99-99-pure-gold-the-dance-screen-the-scream-too-a-one-of-a-kind-coin-from-the-royal-canadian-mint-surpasses-1-5-million-at-heffel-auction-302313573.html SOURCE Royal Canadian Mint (RCM)