jili 777 Daily Post Nigeria Police arrest man, 40, for raping minor in Edo Home News Politics Metro Entertainment Sport Metro Police arrest man, 40, for raping minor in Edo Published on November 27, 2024 By Enahoro Iyemefokhai Operatives of the Edo State Police Command have arrested 40-year-old Monday Obakpian for allegedly raping a 14-year-old girl. DAILY POST reports that the Public Relations Officer of the command, SP Moses Yamu, disclosed this on Wednesday in a statement made available to newsmen in Benin City. Yamu said the suspect, who resides at Odo Quarters in Ibillo, Akoko Edo Local Government Area of the state, lured the innocent girl into his room under the guise of sending her on an errand. The police spokesman said the suspect took advantage of the situation and forcefully had carnal knowledge of her. Yamu explained that a neighbour who heard the victim screaming from the suspect’s room notified the police He said the suspect who confessed to the crime would soon be charged in court. The command called on members of the public to contribute to preventing or stopping violence, especially against women and girls. “This also serves as a warning to the general public, particularly perpetrators of these heinous crimes, that the command will do everything in its power to protect the vulnerable and bring the criminals of such dastardly acts to book,” Yamu said. Related Topics: edo police Don't Miss Police arrest 25 year old man for sodomizing 12 children in Jigawa You may like Gov Okpebholo suspends free bus services earlier approved for Edo residents Police arrest 25 year old man for sodomizing 12 children in Jigawa Police rescue two female kidnap victims in Anambra, arrest four suspects Imo Police vow to enforce law prohibiting gender-based violence against women, children Alleged Rape: Dismissed Inspector Uduma connived with husband to blackmail Sgt Uzuobo – Police Police arrest suspects, recover arms, counterfeit currency, drugs in FCT Advertise About Us Contact Us Privacy-Policy Terms Copyright © Daily Post Media Ltd(The Center Square) – The question before the U.S. Supreme Court on Wednesday was whether a Tennessee law banning gender dysphoria treatment for minors is unconstitutional. Twenty-three other states have similar bans, but the Tennessee case is the first one to have made it to the nation's highest court. Behind the legal questions debated are medical questions that are in dispute. A transgender girl identified as "L Williams" is at the center of the case brought by the American Civil Liberties Union and later supported by the Biden administration. In an article posted on the ACLU's website, L said she was emotionally distressed as she began puberty. “You're at a point where not only are you going through puberty, but you're also going through nightmare puberty,” L said. “I mean, obviously, nobody's 100% comfortable with [the changes,] but you're immensely uncomfortable with them.” L's parents sought puberty and hormone blockers in another state when Tennessee lawmakers passed its ban in 2023. They were on the steps of the U.S. Supreme Court when the case was argued. Also on the steps was Dr. Jared Ross, a member of Do No Harm, a group of medical professionals who say their mission is to keep identity politics out of medical education, research, and clinical practice. Ross has a story, too, about a blue-haired girl who came into an emergency room one night. She described herself as "gender-confused," Ross said in an interview with The Center Square. "She was cutting herself with a razor blade because voices were telling her to," Ross said. "Can you imagine if I had affirmed these voices, affirming what she was hearing? That would have been malpractice, that would have been criminal. I didn't affirm those voices. I also didn't affirm her gender confusion." Do No Harm filed an amicus brief challenging the medical evidence presented by the ACLU and the Biden administration. It points to a study called the "Cass Review," a multi-year project from the United Kingdom that said studies of the use of puberty blockers and cross-sex hormones were uncontrolled observational studies subject to bias." The ACLU says it also has medical evidence on its side. The American Medical Association and the American College of Pediatrics are among the groups that support gender dysphoria treatment for minors. At least one medical organization is taking a second look at the treatments. The American Society of Plastic Surgeons said in April that it is reviewing the practice. "ASPS currently understands that there is considerable uncertainty as to the long-term efficacy for the use of chest and genital surgical interventions for the treatment of adolescents with gender dysphoria, and the existing evidence base is viewed as low quality/low certainty. This patient population requires specific considerations," the organization said in a statement. Doctors who don't support treatments for gender dysphoria for minors are accused of discrimination and not caring about the patients. But that's not the case, Ross said. "The other side often plays this as we're neglecting these kids or we're minimizing their suffering that they're going through," Ross said. "I don't doubt that they're suffering. They're suffering tremendously. They need love and compassion and good evidence-based mental health care." Until the Supreme Court rules in 2025, the Tennessee law and others like it will stay on the books.

AP News Summary at 1:32 p.m. EST

Introduction Digital gift cards have revolutionized the retail world, offering consumers unmatched convenience and businesses a powerful tool for growth. As the shift from physical to digital accelerates, these versatile cards are reshaping how people shop and engage with brands. With features like instant delivery, easy customization, and seamless integration into digital wallets, they cater perfectly to today's fast-paced lifestyles. For retailers, digital gift cards are more than just a product they're a growth catalyst. They boost sales, improve customer loyalty, and help businesses expand into new markets. From holiday shopping to personal milestones, gift cards like the Joker Mastercard are meeting the demand for flexibility and accessibility, creating new opportunities in the retail ecosystem. The Rise of Digital Gift Cards in the Retail Sector Digital gift cards have surged in popularity, replacing their physical counterparts with speed and efficiency. This transformation is driven by consumer demand for hassle-free gifting options and the rapid growth of e-commerce. For businesses, the appeal lies in their ability to attract new customers and simplify the gifting process, driving greater adoption and satisfaction. How Digital Gift Cards Drive Revenue Growth Retailers have discovered that digital gift cards are a potent driver of revenue, particularly during peak shopping periods. Retailers who integrate digital gift cards like the joker mastercard into their offerings see not only increased revenue but also enhanced customer engagement and satisfaction. Enhancing Customer Engagement with Digital Gift Cards Beyond revenue, digital gift cards play a vital role in strengthening customer relationships and improving overall engagement. Leveraging Social Media and Email Campaigns Retailers can amplify the impact of digital gift cards by incorporating them into marketing campaigns. Promotions on platforms like Instagram or Facebook and targeted email campaigns can drive traffic to online stores while showcasing the convenience and value of products like the Joker Mastercard. Unlocking New Market Opportunities Digital gift cards open doors to new customer segments and markets, enabling businesses to scale efficiently. Digital Gift Cards and the Role of Technology The integration of advanced technology has significantly enhanced the functionality and appeal of digital gift cards. Blockchain and Gift Cards Blockchain technology is reshaping the digital gift card space, offering increased transparency and security. Early adopters are leveraging blockchain to streamline issuance and redemption processes while reducing fraud risks. Challenges and Solutions in the Digital Gift Card Ecosystem Despite their many benefits, digital gift cards come with challenges that retailers must navigate. Fraud Risks: Digital gift cards can be targeted by cybercriminals, necessitating robust security measures. Solutions Future Trends in Digital Gift Cards The evolution of digital gift cards shows no signs of slowing down, with exciting trends shaping their future. Products like the Joker Mastercard exemplify the innovation driving this sector forward, offering enhanced convenience and adaptability. Wrapping Up: The Digital Gift Card Revolution Digital gift cards are more than just a modern convenience they represent a transformative force in retail. By driving revenue, improving customer engagement, and enabling global reach, they provide retailers with powerful tools to adapt and thrive in an increasingly digital world. For businesses, products like the Joker Mastercard demonstrate the potential of digital gift cards to cater to diverse customer needs while boosting brand loyalty. As technology continues to evolve, the importance of integrating digital gift cards into retail strategies will only grow, ensuring long-term success in a competitive landscape.ABVP forms new committee for JNTU-HyderabadMumbai : The Samajwadi Party (SP) on Saturday, December 7, decided to quit the Maha Vikas Aghadi (MVA) over Shiv Sena (UBT) chief Uddhav Thackeray’s close aide hailing the demolition of the Babri Masjid and a related newspaper advertisement congratulated those behind the act. The Samajwadi Party has two MLAs in the 288-member Maharashtra assembly. “An advertisement was given by Shiv Sena (UBT) in a newspaper congratulating those who demolished Babri masjid. His (Uddhav Thackeray) aide has also posted on X hailing the demolition of the mosque,” Maharashtra SP unit chief Abu Azmi said. “We are quitting the MVA. I am speaking to (Samajwadi Party president) Akhilesh Yadav,” Azmi told PTI. The SP’s move comes in response to Sena (UBT) MLC Milind Narvekar’s post on Babri Masjid demolition. Narvekar has posted a photo of the demolition of the mosque accompanied by Shiv Sena founder Bal Thackeray’s quote “I am proud of those who did this”. pic.twitter.com/3nZYC4EK0e The Shiv Sena (UBT) secretary also posted images of Uddhav Thackeray, Aaditya Thackeray and himself in his message. “If anyone in the MVA speaks such language, what is the difference between the BJP and them? Why should we stay with them?” Azmi asked. He said the mosque was demolished and no one was punished for it, adding that people had forgotten about it but wounds are being reopened. “The Congress has to decide whether it can ally with someone who speaks like this,” he told reporters. Hitting back, Shiv Sena (UBT) leader Bhaskar Jadhav said his party’s stand on Babri Masjid remains the same since 1992. Has the Samajwadi Party realised the stand of Shiv Sena (UBT) after 31 years, he asked. Jadhav accused SP of leaning towards the ruling alliance. When asked about the SP’s decision to quit the MVA, senior Congress leader Nitin Raut said “Abu Azmi has made a statement (of quitting the MVA). We will discuss with the Samajwadi Party about its decision and understand what the problem is.” “It is unlikely to hurt the MVA directly because the SP has very limited presence in the state. The decision to walk out of the MVA is perhaps being taken keeping the civic body polls in mind and positioning the party accordingly,” political analyst Abhay Deshpande said. Meanwhile, Azmi also said there was no coordination with parties like Samajwadi Party during the Maharashtra assembly polls. The SP had contested eight seats and won two and had a friendly contest on six. The Samajwadi Party was part of the larger opposition of the MVA, which primarily comprises the Shiv Sena (UBT), Congress and Sharad Pawar-led NCP (SP). The Akhilesh Yadav-led party’s move also reflects the differences within the INDIA bloc at the national level, of which the MVA is part of. On Friday, West Bengal Chief Minister and TMC supremo Mamata Banerjee expressed dissatisfaction with the functioning of the Indian National Developmental Inclusive Alliance signalling her intent to take charge of the bloc if given the opportunity amid the drubbing received by the Congress in assembly polls in Haryana and Maharashtra.

College Football Playoff's first 12-team bracket is set with Oregon No. 1 and SMU in, Alabama out

Russian President Vladimir Putin says the missile fired at Ukraine on Thursday was not an intercontinental ballistic missile, as initially claimed by Ukrainian officials, but a new type of “intermediate” range weapon which could be turned against Ukraine’s allies in the future. According to the Russian president, the missile strike came in response to the use of U.S.- and British-made arms by the Ukrainian military against targets in Russia earlier this week. Russia has claimed it shot down those missiles. “In combat conditions, one of the newest Russian medium-range missile systems was tested, among other things. In this case, with a ballistic missile in a nuclear-free hypersonic equipment,” Putin said during a national television address. Putin said that in the future his use of such missiles would be announced in advance so that civilians can evacuate the target area and proclaimed that U.S. air defense systems are incapable of stopping the weapons. He was explicit in saying nation’s supporting Ukraine’s defense are viable targets. U.S. officials also pushed back on claims from Kyiv that Russia fired an ICBM at Ukraine, according to reporting . According to initial reports from Ukrainian officials, the world entered a new era of warfare after the Russian military apparently used an intercontinental ballistic missile, which would represent the first time such a weapon was used as an act of war in human history. Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy said Thursday that his “insane neighbor” is once again showing the world its true nature, “its disdain for dignity, freedom, and human life itself. And, most of all, its fear.” “Fear so overwhelming that it unleashes missile after missile, scouring the globe for more weapons — whether from Iran or North Korea. Today, it was a new Russian missile. Its speed and altitude suggest intercontinental ballistic capabilities. Investigations are ongoing,” he Thursday morning. In a statement offered in the afternoon, Zelenskyy seemed to concur with the assessment of international observers that the weapons used was not an ICBM, but a shorter range ballistic device. “Today, Putin admitted to taking a second step this year toward escalating and expanding this war. A new ballistic missile was used. Putin struck our city of Dnipro, one of Ukraine’s largest cities. This is a clear and severe escalation in the scale and brutality of this war—a cynical violation of the UN Charter by Russia,” he said . The White House responded to the attack by announcing a new round of sanctions against dozens of Russian financial institutions and “50 other persons and entities operating in the Russian financial sector.” In a statement shared by the Biden Administration, National Security Advisor Jake Sullivan said the sanctions aim to “further degrade Russia’s ability to use the international financial system to fund and prosecute its brutal war against the people of Ukraine.” “These targets include Gazprombank, Russia’s largest remaining bank not sanctioned by the United States,” Sullivan said. U.S. officials explained after the attack that the missile launched at Dnipro was technically not an intercontinental ballistic missile — which generally have an effective range of more than 3,400 miles — but a new type of shorter range ballistic missile of which Russia has a short supply. The launch comes not long after President Joe Biden’s outgoing administration loosened the rules around the use of foreign military coalition provided long-range precision arms against targets on Russia’s side of the border. Ukraine was quick to take action under the new ground rules, and began using coalition provided weaponry against targets in Russia just days later. Russian President Vladimir Putin responded by lowering the threshold under which the Russian military might be ordered to use nuclear weapons. On Wednesday, the U.S. announced a 70th, $275 million military aid package would be sent to Ukraine, including a large supply of land mines. Regardless of the technical definition surrounding the Russian fired rocket, its use demonstrates that Russia is more than capable of firing on other European nations, according to Zelenskyy. “Putin must feel the cost of his deranged ambitions. Response is needed. Pressure is needed. Russia must be forced into real peace, which can only be achieved through strength. Otherwise, there will be endless Russian strikes, threats, and destabilization—not just against Ukraine,” he said Thursday. U.S. Rep. Seth Moulton, a member of the House Armed Services Committee, told the Herald that Putin’s latest provocation is a “notable development, but not a cause for alarm.” “He is trying to scare the West,” Moulton said, while adding that Russia’s tactics are counterproductive. “Putin should not play games with nuclear bluster. Using a potentially nuclear-armed weapon to sow confusion about whether or not Russia intends to take this conflict nuclear is irresponsible and reckless,” Moulton said. Herald wire services contributed.

French President Emmanuel Macron on Friday named centrist ally Francois Bayrou as prime minister, after a historic parliamentary vote ousted the previous government last week. Mr Bayrou, 73, a crucial partner in Macron’s centrist alliance, has been a well-known figure in French politics for decades. His political experience is seen as key in efforts to restore stability as no single party holds a majority at the National Assembly. Mr Macron’s office said in a statement that Mr Bayrou “has been charged with forming a new government”. During the handover ceremony, Mr Bayrou said that “no one knows the difficulty of the situation better” than he does. “I’ve taken reckless risks all along my political life to raise the issue of debt and deficits in the most important elections,” he said. France is under pressure from the European Union’s executive body and financial markets to reduce its colossal debt, estimated to reach 6% of its gross domestic product this year. “I know that the risks of difficulties are much greater than the chances of success,” Mr Bayrou said, adding that he hopes to lead the country towards a “needed reconciliation”. “I think this is the only possible path to success,” he said. The new prime minister is expected to hold talks with political leaders from various parties in the coming days in order to choose new ministers. Former prime minister Michel Barnier resigned last week following a no-confidence vote prompted by budget disputes in the National Assembly, leaving France without a functioning government. Mr Macron in an address to the nation vowed to remain in office until his term ends in 2027. Mr Macron’s centrist alliance does not have a majority in parliament and Mr Bayrou’s Cabinet will need to rely on moderate lawmakers from the left and the right to be able to stay in power. Some conservatives are expected to be part of the new government. Mr Macron’s strategy aims at preventing far-right leader Marine Le Pen from holding “make or break” power over the government. Ms Le Pen helped oust Mr Barnier by joining her National Rally party’s forces to the left to pass the no-confidence motion last week. Mr Bayrou’s appointment is also in line with Mr Macron’s efforts to build a non-aggression pact with the Socialists so that they commit not to vote against the government in any future confidence motion. Mr Bayrou leads the centrist Democratic Movement, known as MoDem, which he founded in 2007. In 2017, he supported Mr Macron’s first presidential bid and became a weighty partner in the French president’s centrist alliance. At the time, he was appointed justice minister, but he quickly resigned from the government amid an investigation into the MoDem’s alleged embezzlement of European Parliament funds. Mr Bayrou this year was cleared in the case by a Paris court, which found eight other party officials guilty and sentenced the party to pay a fine. Mr Bayrou became well known to the French public when he was education minister from 1993 to 1997 in a conservative government. He was three times a candidate for president: in 2002, 2007 and 2012.Over 75,000 approved homes yet to commence construction

(KTEN) — US 75 had steady traffic north and south on Wednesday as motorists filled up their tanks for a Thanksgiving trip. "We enjoy driving; we enjoy stopping at Buc-ee's," said Rudy Aldama, who was traveling from Broken Arrow, Oklahoma to El Paso, Texas. With less than 24 hours until Thanksgiving, people packed their patience early Wednesday morning as they passed through Texoma. Sandra Hanson — traveling from Tulsa to Dallas — said she was up before the crack of dawn. "I wanted to try and get away from all the traffic, and so far it has been good," she said. Travelers told us that driving was not only more cost efficient, but more practical this year. "You can carry more in your car; you get to just travel the way you want to, and it's too expensive to fly right now," said Caroline Peaslee, who was on the road from Dallas to Missouri. Sign up to get our free daily email of the biggest stories! Thanksgiving dinner brings family and friends together across the country. Dallas resident Kishna Banks was on her to a Chicago get-together. "Everybody is there, so we're doing a huge Thanksgiving dinner," she said. "It will be probably about 40 to 50 people." But if you're not flying, those miles can add up on a long trip to El Paso. "It's between 12 and 13 hours, so it's going to be a while," Aldama said. "We'll stop when we get tired; we'll get out and walk around." As for the best part of Thanksgiving? "Just being with family," said Banks. "The laughter, the fun, the games... it's just joy."US 30-year bonds have had a worrisome week. They've risen for five straight days in a climb to 4.61% from 4.31% and that's coming at the same time as Chinese debt heads in the other direction. Now some of that could be seasonal quirks and we're still within the post-election range. I worry about that range though. It's a narrow spot on the chart and we will need to go down and test 4% or 5% at some point, maybe more. I would like to think that will depend on how the economy evolves but I fear that it may hinge more on Washington and what Congress decides to do early in Trump's term. There is one line of thinking that the border/immigration and energy will be the first priority with taxes left for later. There is another that aims to extend Trump's tax cuts right away. Politically, I have no idea how that shakes out with the narrow Republican majority but I don't think fiscal hawks are in a position to put up a fight at the moment. That may mean it's the market that kicks and screams. Now it could also come down to the economy. There is deep uncertainty about the animal spirits that could be unleashed following the election. Many business surveys lamented Biden and pinned for a new administration and said they were holding back investment and hiring until the election. If that's the case, the US growth could surprise next year, even without Congressional help. In any case, the US dollar will be along for the ride. Japan isn't signalling a rate hike next week and the marekt has it priced at just 23%. With that, USD/JPY is climbing again, up 107 pips to 153.70 today and on a five-day winning streak that mirrors Treasury yields. More broadly, the quiet period in bonds has contributed to the euphoric mood in stocks. If the range in yields cracks to the upside, it might not be pretty. What to watch for next? I don't think a dovish Powell on Wednesday would be well-received by the bond market. Yes, it would push down short-dated yields but 30-year yields are likely to push higher as the market senses too much loosening at an uncertain time.

Retiring Naeher is proud of her achievements and looking forward to USWNT's next generationAs global markets wind down for the Christmas break, U.S. stock indices have shown promising movement. The Nasdaq led a half-day rally on Christmas Eve, approaching its record highs, while the S&P 500 pushed past the 6,000 mark. However, not all stocks have kept pace with this festive momentum. Among key players, Nvidia presented a buying opportunity as it crossed crucial levels, despite retreating from intra-day peaks. Other AI chip titans like Broadcom and Astera Labs saw continued upward trends. Meanwhile, Tesla maintained its strong performance from earlier in the week, bouncing back further after a minor dip. The hotel industry also saw movement, with China’s Atour Lifestyle Holdings nearing a potential buy point. Nvidia remains a highlight on various expert lists, including the IBD Leaderboard and SwingTrader, showcasing ongoing interest in tech and AI sectors. Globally, major markets will pause on Wednesday due to the Christmas holiday. Despite slight after-hours declines in Dow Jones futures and minimal changes in S&P 500 and Nasdaq futures, this doesn’t necessarily predict action when trading resumes. In broader market news, the dawn of the “Santa Claus rally” has spurred optimism. Notable gains were seen across major indices and ETFs, including strong performances by small-cap, tech-software, and semiconductor sectors. For those looking to invest, it’s crucial to track leading stocks and sectors, as well as emerging areas of growth and opportunity. The market remains selective, calling for strategic picks among potential gainers in AI, travel, and finance sectors. Wall Street’s Holiday Cheer: Emerging Trends and Insights for Savvy Investors As markets enter the festive season, recent activities in U.S. stock indices suggest favorable conditions for strategic investors. The impressive surge in the Nasdaq and the S&P 500 has brought optimism, with the Nasdaq nearing its highest records and the S&P 500 surpassing notable thresholds. Yet, not every stock has shared this prosperity, making discerning investment choices crucial. Innovative Prospects in the Tech Sector The technology sector, specifically areas like artificial intelligence and semiconductors, is gaining considerable traction. Nvidia , known for its leadership in AI chips, offers promising buy opportunities as it hits strategic levels, notwithstanding brief intra-day pullbacks. Other key players such as Broadcom and Astera Labs are experiencing sustained upward trajectories, reflecting broader industry positivity. Tesla’s robust performance adds to the optimistic outlook, particularly following a rebound from minor slumps earlier in the week. This highlights the electric vehicle industry’s resilience and its potential as a strategic investment area. Market Trends: The Santa Claus Rally Effect The “Santa Claus rally,” a phenomenon where stock prices often rise in the last week of December, has invigorated market sentiment. This seasonal increase in trading activities and stock prices is particularly evident in small-cap, tech-software, and semiconductor sectors. Investors are advised to monitor these areas closely as they continue to demonstrate substantial gains. Emerging Opportunities in Global Markets Investment opportunities also expand beyond the technology sphere. The hotel sector is showing promise, with companies like China’s Atour Lifestyle Holdings potentially offering attractive purchase points. This underscores growth potential in the travel and hospitality industries as global travel scales back up. Strategic Insights for Investors For those intrigued by the evolving market landscape, it’s essential to refine focus towards sectors forecasted for growth. The AI chip market, driven by firms like Nvidia and Broadcom, alongside emerging players, can be particularly rewarding. Additionally, the near-future trends in travel, hospitality, and finance sectors offer strategic investment avenues. In conclusion, while holiday-induced pauses are expected, the new year beckons with prospects for gains. Staying informed about trending sectors and poised industries will be crucial for capitalizing on market volatility and sustained upward trends. For more information on stock trends and market analysis, visit the comprehensive resources on Nasdaq and SP Global .

SANTA CLARA, Calif. (AP) — Brock Purdy threw one short pass in the open portion of practice for the San Francisco 49ers as he remains slowed by an injury to his throwing shoulder that has already forced him to miss a game. Purdy spent the bulk of the session of Wednesday's practice open to reporters as either a spectator or executing handoffs outside of one short pass to Jordan Mason. Purdy hurt his shoulder during a loss to Seattle on Nov. 17. He tried to throw at practice last Thursday but had soreness in his right shoulder and shut it down. He missed a loss to Green Bay but was able to do some light throwing on Monday. His status for this week remains in doubt as the Niners (5-6) prepare to visit Buffalo on Sunday night. Purdy isn't the only key player for San Francisco dealing with injuries. Left tackle Trent Williams and defensive end Nick Bosa remain sidelined at practice Wednesday after missing last week's game. Williams was using a scooter to get around the locker room as he deals with a left ankle injury. Bosa has been out with injuries to his left hip and oblique. Bosa said the week off helped him make progress and that he hopes to be able to take part in individual drills later in the week. Bosa wouldn't rule out being able to play on Sunday. "It’s feeling a lot better,” Bosa said. “Still need to get better before I’m ready to go. This week will be big and I’ll know a lot more in the next couple of days.” Running back Christian McCaffrey has been able to play, but isn't back to the form that helped him win AP Offensive Player of the Year in 2023 after missing the first eight games this season with Achilles tendinitis. McCaffrey has 149 yards rushing in three games back with his 3.5 yards per carry down significantly from last season's mark of 5.4. But he is confident he will be able to get back to his usual level of play. “When you lose and maybe you don’t jump out on the stat sheet, your failures are highlighted,” he said. “I’m happy I’m out here playing football and I just know with time it will come.” Coach Kyle Shanahan said he has liked what he has seen from McCaffrey, adding that there hasn't been much room to run in recent weeks. But Shanahan said it takes time to get back to speed after McCaffrey had almost no practice time for nine months. “Guys who miss offseasons and miss training camp, usually it takes them a little bit of time at the beginning of the year to get back into how they were the year before, let alone missing half the season also on top of that,” Shanahan said. “I think Christian’s doing a hell of a job. But to just think him coming back in Week 8 with not being able to do anything for the last nine months or whatever it is, and to think he’s just going to be in MVP form is a very unrealistic expectation.” NOTES: LB Dre Greenlaw took part in his first practice since tearing his Achilles tendon in the Super Bowl. Greenlaw will likely need a couple of weeks of practice before being able to play. ... LB Fred Warner said he has been dealing with a fracture in his ankle since Week 4 and is doing his best to manage the pain as he plays through it. ... CB Deommodore Lenoir didn't practice after banging knees on Sunday. His status for this week remains in question. ... DT Jordan Elliott (concussion), OL Aaron Banks (concussion) and LB Demetrius Flannigan-Fowles (knee) also didn't practice. AP NFL: https://apnews.com/hub/NFLSANTA CLARA, Calif. (AP) — Brock Purdy threw one short pass in the open portion of practice for the San Francisco 49ers as he remains slowed by an injury to his throwing shoulder that has already forced him to miss a game. Purdy spent the bulk of the session of Wednesday's practice open to reporters as either a spectator or executing handoffs outside of one short pass to Jordan Mason. Purdy hurt his shoulder during a loss to Seattle on Nov. 17. He tried to throw at practice last Thursday but had soreness in his right shoulder and shut it down. He missed a loss to Green Bay but was able to do some light throwing on Monday. His status for this week remains in doubt as the Niners (5-6) prepare to visit Buffalo on Sunday night. Purdy isn't the only key player for San Francisco dealing with injuries. Left tackle Trent Williams and defensive end Nick Bosa remain sidelined at practice Wednesday after missing last week's game. Williams was using a scooter to get around the locker room as he deals with a left ankle injury. Bosa has been out with injuries to his left hip and oblique. Bosa said the week off helped him make progress and that he hopes to be able to take part in individual drills later in the week. Bosa wouldn't rule out being able to play on Sunday. "It’s feeling a lot better,” Bosa said. “Still need to get better before I’m ready to go. This week will be big and I’ll know a lot more in the next couple of days.” Running back Christian McCaffrey has been able to play, but isn't back to the form that helped him win AP Offensive Player of the Year in 2023 after missing the first eight games this season with Achilles tendinitis. McCaffrey has 149 yards rushing in three games back with his 3.5 yards per carry down significantly from last season's mark of 5.4. But he is confident he will be able to get back to his usual level of play. “When you lose and maybe you don’t jump out on the stat sheet, your failures are highlighted,” he said. “I’m happy I’m out here playing football and I just know with time it will come.” Coach Kyle Shanahan said he has liked what he has seen from McCaffrey, adding that there hasn't been much room to run in recent weeks. But Shanahan said it takes time to get back to speed after McCaffrey had almost no practice time for nine months. “Guys who miss offseasons and miss training camp, usually it takes them a little bit of time at the beginning of the year to get back into how they were the year before, let alone missing half the season also on top of that,” Shanahan said. “I think Christian’s doing a hell of a job. But to just think him coming back in Week 8 with not being able to do anything for the last nine months or whatever it is, and to think he’s just going to be in MVP form is a very unrealistic expectation.” NOTES: LB Dre Greenlaw took part in his first practice since tearing his Achilles tendon in the Super Bowl. Greenlaw will likely need a couple of weeks of practice before being able to play. ... LB Fred Warner said he has been dealing with a fracture in his ankle since Week 4 and is doing his best to manage the pain as he plays through it. ... CB Deommodore Lenoir didn't practice after banging knees on Sunday. His status for this week remains in question. ... DT Jordan Elliott (concussion), OL Aaron Banks (concussion) and LB Demetrius Flannigan-Fowles (knee) also didn't practice. ___ AP NFL: https://apnews.com/hub/NFL Josh Dubow, The Associated Press‘I get WA’: Albanese makes pitch for your vote - The West Australian

West Virginia knocks off No. 3 Gonzaga 86-78 in overtime in the Battle 4 Atlantis

UCF and Tulsa will test their mettle against each other on Saturday afternoon in the Orange Bowl Basketball Classic in Sunrise, Fla. The Knights will make their first appearance in the event since recording a two-point loss to Missouri in 2022, while Tulsa's last trip to the Orange Bowl Classic was a loss to Florida State in 2012. UCF (7-2) may have something to prove being away from Addition Financial Arena. The Knights are 7-0 at home, whereas a November trip to the Greenbrier Tip-Off in West Virginia produced an 86-70 loss to Wisconsin and a triple-overtime setback against LSU. The Knights relied heavily on their defense in Sunday's 66-51 win over Tarleton State. After a sluggish start offensively, UCF found its rhythm during a 37-point second half. Jordan Ivy-Curry finished with a game-high 16 points and freshman center Moustapha Thiam collected 10 points, nine rebounds and six blocks. UCF's Big 12 opener draws closer (at Texas Tech, Dec. 31), but head coach Johnny Dawkins remains focused on daily improvement. "I feel a sense of urgency to get better, not with regards to Big 12 play to be quite frank, but every game," Dawkins said. "I don't look too far in the future. Pretty much I've always been in the moment as a player and as a person, and so for me it's about just getting better because it's our standards." Tulsa (4-6) looks to stop a three-game slide following a 70-66 home loss to Southern University last Saturday. Keaston Willis scored in double figures for the sixth time this season, netting a season-high 23 points off the bench. But Isaiah Barnes, one of three Golden Hurricane players to start all 10 games, was injured in the first half and played only eight minutes. To complicate matters, head coach Eric Konkol's team is 0-6 when trailing at halftime. "We got to get some guys healthy that can be healthy for next Saturday (against UCF)," Konkol said. "We got a couple other guys dealing with some different things, but then (also) having some planning to figure out what's the best way going forward for this group." --Field Level Media2024 in pop culture: In a bruising year, we sought out fantasy, escapism — and cute little animals

College Football Playoff's first 12-team bracket is set with Oregon No. 1 and SMU in, Alabama out SMU captured the last open spot in the 12-team College Football Playoff, bumping Alabama to land in a bracket that placed undefeated Oregon at No. 1. The selection committee preferred the Mustangs, losers of a heartbreaker in the Atlantic Coast Conference title game, who had a far less difficult schedule than Alabama of the SEC but one fewer loss. The inaugural 12-team bracket marks a new era for college football, though the Alabama-SMU debate made clear there is no perfect formula. The tournament starts Dec. 20-21 with four first-round games. It concludes Jan. 20 with the national title game in Atlanta. Alabama left out of playoff as committee rewards SMU's wins over Crimson Tide's strong schedule The College Football Playoff committee took wins over strength of schedule, taking SMU over Alabama for the final at-large spot in the field. The field was expanded from four to 12 teams this season, but that didn’t save the committee from controversy. SMU showed it could compete against a traditional power, losing to Clemson 34-31 on a 56-yard field goal in the ACC title game on Saturday. Alabama had some ups and downs in its first season under coach Kalen DeBoer. The Crimson Tide had quality wins against Georgia and South Carolina, but lost at Vanderbilt, Tennessee and Oklahoma. Big Ten wins playoff selection derby, followed by SEC despite notable Alabama omission College football’s conference shakeup left concerns about two super conferences dominating the playoff field. They weren’t totally unfounded, or 100% born out. The Big Ten, not the Southeastern Conference, was the biggest winner. The ACC scored, too. The Big Ten led the initial 12-team playoff field with four making the cut, topped by a No. 1 Oregon team that was part of the Pac-12 exodus. Then came the SEC — and one notable omission. ACC runner-up SMU got the nod over college football blue-blood Alabama, another blemish in Kalen DeBoer’s first season as Nick Saban’s championship-or-bust successor. Tamar Bates scores 29 points to help Missouri beat No. 1 Kansas 76-67 COLUMBIA, Mo. (AP) — Tamar Bates had 29 points and five steals to help Missouri beat Hunter Dickinson and No. 1 Kansas 76-67. Mark Mitchell scored 17 points in Missouri’s first win over Kansas since a 74-71 victory on Feb. 4, 2012. Anthony Robinson II had 11 points and five steals for the 8-1 Tigers. Dickinson had 19 points and 14 rebounds, but he also committed seven turnovers. The 7-2 Jayhawks have lost two straight on the road after falling 76-63 against Creighton on Wednesday night. Scottie Scheffler ends his big year in the Bahamas with his 9th victory NASSAU, Bahamas (AP) — Scottie Scheffler ended his biggest year with another victory. Scheffler was coming off a two-month break and looked as good as ever. He shot 63 in the Hero World Challenge and set tournament records at Albany with a 72-hole total of 263 and a six-shot victory. Tom Kim was the runner-up and Justin Thomas finished third. Scheffler ends his year with nine victories in 21 tournaments. That includes the holiday tournament in the Bahamas and the Olympic gold medal in Paris. It's the third-highest winning percentage in the last 40 years. Tournament host Tiger Woods had two better years. Lindsey Vonn is encouraged by how close she is to being competitive in ski racing return at age 40 COPPER MOUNTAIN, Colo. (AP) — Lindsey Vonn is encouraged by how close she is to being competitive again in her ski racing return at 40 years old. Vonn is still getting her ski equipment dialed in and getting used to going full speed again on her new titanium knee. That’s why all that she's reading into being more than two seconds behind in a pair of lower-level super-G races Sunday is that she’s right there. This after nearly six years away from ski racing and an abbreviated prep period. She was 2.19 seconds behind in the first race and 2.06 in the second. Both were won by her American teammate Lauren Macuga. Plane circles MetLife Stadium with message to co-owner John Mara to fix the Giants' 'dumpster fire' EAST RUTHERFORD, N.J. (AP) — A small plane circled MetLife Stadium roughly 90 minutes before New York was to play host to the New Orleans Saints on Sunday, asking Giants co-owner John Mara to overhaul the team that has made the playoffs twice since winning the Super Bowl in February 2012. “Mr. Mara, enough. Please fix this dumpster fire!” the message read as it was towed behind the rear of a small plane. Saquon Barkley sets Eagles season rushing record and has Dickerson's NFL mark in his sights PHILADELPHIA (AP) — Saquon Barkley has broken LeSean McCoy's Eagles franchise record for rushing yards in a season. Barkley has 1,623 yards. He surpassed McCoy's mark of 1,607 yards with a 9-yard run in Sunday's 22-16 win over Carolina. Barkley finished the game with 124 yards, within a yard of his season average. He has four games left and is on pace to break Eric Dickerson's 40-year-old NFL record of 2,105 yards. Dickerson set that record in a 16-game season and Barkley has one more game. Eagles fans serenaded Barkley with “MVP!” chants and McCoy congratulated him on social media. Tua Tagovailoa's TD pass to Jonnu Smith gives Dolphins 32-26 overtime win over Aaron Rodgers, Jets MIAMI GARDENS, Fla. (AP) — Tua Tagovailoa threw a 10-yard touchdown pass to Jonnu Smith in overtime and the Miami Dolphins overcame Aaron Rodgers’ first 300-yard passing game in nearly three years to beat the New York Jets 32-26. After Jason Sanders tied it with 7 seconds left in regulation with a 42-yard field goal, Tagovailoa quickly moved the Dolphins down the field and they beat the Jets for the ninth straight time in Miami. That came after Anders Carlson gave the struggling Jets the lead with a 42-yarder with 52 seconds remaining. New York was eliminated from playoff contention for the 14th straight year. Steelers WR George Pickens to miss first game of his career with hamstring injury PITTSBURGH (AP) — Pittsburgh Steelers wide receiver George Pickens will have to wait to “introduce” himself to Cleveland Browns defensive back Greg Newsome II. Pickens is inactive for Pittsburgh's rematch against the Browns because of a hamstring injury. Newsome and Pickens ended Cleveland’s 24-19 win on Nov. 21 by tussling on Pittsburgh’s last-gasp desperation pass attempt. Pickens grabbed Newsome’s facemask as the two careened through the end zone and slammed into a restraining wall. Afterward, Newsome called the mercurial Pickens a “fake tough guy.” Pickens responded on Friday by feigning ignorance and saying he didn’t even know who Newsome was when asked if he would talk to Newsome before the game.Automation That Makes a Difference SUNRISE, Fla. , Nov. 21, 2024 /PRNewswire/ -- When it comes to diagnostic imaging, every second counts. That's why Bright Light Imaging has joined forces with Alpha Nodus to revolutionize how they handle prior authorizations. By adopting Gravity Auth , Alpha Nodus's powerful automation platform, Bright Light Imaging has eliminated the red tape slowing down their workflows. The result? Faster approvals, happier staff, and, most importantly, better care for their patients. Let's face it: Prior authorizations can be a headache. Mountains of paperwork, endless phone calls, and delays in patient care—sound familiar? For both Dr. Ramit and Resham Mendi , Medical Directors of Bright Light Imaging , this partnership has been nothing short of a revelation. "Gravity Auth has completely changed the game for us," they said. "It used to take hours—sometimes even days—to navigate the prior authorization process. Now, it's handled seamlessly, often in just minutes. We're getting results to our patients faster, and that's what really matters." The integration wasn't just efficient—it was a breeze. According to Kevin Nowaczyk , Bright Light Imaging's IT Director , "The process was so smooth, it honestly surprised me. Alpha Nodus's team walked us through every step, and we were up and running in no time. Now, we're seeing fewer errors, faster turnarounds, and less stress on our staff. It's a win all around." "Advanced Data Systems (ADS) is proud to have fully integrated our MedicsRIS with Alpha Nodus to provide advanced automated prior authorizations for our mutual client, Bright Light Imaging," said Steve Hamburg , ADS Director of RIS Sales and Development at Advanced Data Systems . " Alpha Nodus is an outstanding solution, and the positive feedback from Bright Light Imaging has been fantastic. This successful collaboration between our three organizations has resulted in better, faster care for patients, and that is what ultimately matters most." This kind of success is exactly why Alpha Nodus built Gravity Auth in the first place. Shamit Patel , CEO of Alpha Nodus , explained, "Bright Light Imaging isn't just a customer—they're an example of what's possible when technology meets ambition. Automation is about empowering people to do their best work, enhancing their capabilities and allowing them to focus on more meaningful tasks. With Gravity Auth, their team can focus on delivering exceptional care while the technology handles the rest. We are thrilled about this engagement. When we collaborate, patients win. Open interfaces and collaborations between organizations like ours and our partners are the key to achieving better, faster care for patients." How Automation Transforms Patient Care Think about it: In the high-stakes world of diagnostic imaging, delays can mean the difference between a quick diagnosis and prolonged uncertainty for patients. By automating the prior authorization process, Bright Light Imaging is removing barriers and ensuring patients get the care they need without unnecessary delays. What does that look like in practice? Imagine a busy morning with multiple urgent imaging requests. Instead of staff scrambling to collect documentation and spend hours on the phone with insurance companies, Gravity Auth steps in. It verifies eligibility, gathers clinical notes, and submits authorizations—all in real time. The team can breathe easier, knowing the system is working behind the scenes to keep everything moving smoothly. For Bright Light Imaging, this isn't just about efficiency. It's about staying ahead in a competitive industry and keeping their commitment to patient-first care. About Alpha Nodus Alpha Nodus specializes in creating smart, intuitive solutions for healthcare providers. Their flagship product, Gravity Auth, simplifies complex workflows, helping providers automate, accelerate, and amplify operations. To learn more, visit www.alphanodus.com . About Bright Light Imaging Bright Light Imaging is known for delivering state-of-the-art diagnostic imaging services with a human touch. By combining cutting-edge technology with a commitment to excellence, they continue to set the gold standard in patient care. Find out more at www.brightlightimaging.com . About Advanced Data Systems Since 1977, clients have relied on the ADS team and our intelligent automation solutions and services. The MedicsCloud Suite, and MedicsRIS for radiology, ADS's latest generation of rules driven financial, revenue cycle, practice management, clinical charting and reporting, and mobility/engagement platforms, are used by clients to produce maximized revenue and efficiency for their practices, groups, and enterprise networks. To learn more, visit https://www.adsc.com Media Contact: Alpha Nodus info@alphanodus.com 1-888-625-7420 View original content to download multimedia: https://www.prnewswire.com/news-releases/bright-light-imaging-leverages-alpha-noduss-gravity-auth-enhanced-by-integration-with-adss-medicsris-to-streamline-patient-care-302313533.html SOURCE Alpha Nodus , Inc.

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Ange Postecoglou makes admission over Tottenham 'scrutiny' as Christmas target setUEFA Champions League: Liverpool beat Real Madrid at home; Aston Villa hold JuventusSANTA CLARA, Calif. (AP) — Brock Purdy threw one short pass in the open portion of practice for the San Francisco 49ers as he remains slowed by an injury to his throwing shoulder that has already forced him to miss a game. Purdy spent the bulk of the session of Wednesday's practice open to reporters as either a spectator or executing handoffs outside of one short pass to Jordan Mason. Purdy hurt his shoulder during a loss to Seattle on Nov. 17. He tried to throw at practice last Thursday but had soreness in his right shoulder and shut it down. He missed a loss to Green Bay but was able to do some light throwing on Monday. His status for this week remains in doubt as the Niners (5-6) prepare to visit Buffalo on Sunday night. Purdy isn't the only key player for San Francisco dealing with injuries. Left tackle Trent Williams and defensive end Nick Bosa remain sidelined at practice Wednesday after missing last week's game. Williams was using a scooter to get around the locker room as he deals with a left ankle injury. Bosa has been out with injuries to his left hip and oblique. Bosa said the week off helped him make progress and that he hopes to be able to take part in individual drills later in the week. Bosa wouldn't rule out being able to play on Sunday. "It’s feeling a lot better,” Bosa said. “Still need to get better before I’m ready to go. This week will be big and I’ll know a lot more in the next couple of days.” Running back Christian McCaffrey has been able to play, but isn't back to the form that helped him win AP Offensive Player of the Year in 2023 after missing the first eight games this season with Achilles tendinitis. McCaffrey has 149 yards rushing in three games back with his 3.5 yards per carry down significantly from last season's mark of 5.4. But he is confident he will be able to get back to his usual level of play. “When you lose and maybe you don’t jump out on the stat sheet, your failures are highlighted,” he said. “I’m happy I’m out here playing football and I just know with time it will come.” Coach Kyle Shanahan said he has liked what he has seen from McCaffrey, adding that there hasn't been much room to run in recent weeks. But Shanahan said it takes time to get back to speed after McCaffrey had almost no practice time for nine months. “Guys who miss offseasons and miss training camp, usually it takes them a little bit of time at the beginning of the year to get back into how they were the year before, let alone missing half the season also on top of that,” Shanahan said. “I think Christian’s doing a hell of a job. But to just think him coming back in Week 8 with not being able to do anything for the last nine months or whatever it is, and to think he’s just going to be in MVP form is a very unrealistic expectation.” NOTES: LB Dre Greenlaw took part in his first practice since tearing his Achilles tendon in the Super Bowl. Greenlaw will likely need a couple of weeks of practice before being able to play. ... LB Fred Warner said he has been dealing with a fracture in his ankle since Week 4 and is doing his best to manage the pain as he plays through it. ... CB Deommodore Lenoir didn't practice after banging knees on Sunday. His status for this week remains in question. ... DT Jordan Elliott (concussion), OL Aaron Banks (concussion) and LB Demetrius Flannigan-Fowles (knee) also didn't practice. ___ AP NFL: https://apnews.com/hub/NFL Josh Dubow, The Associated Press

What's New Former GOP Representative Matt Gaetz has asked for "help" in a fundraising email after the House Ethics Committee released its report on its investigation into his alleged misconduct. Why It Matters Gaetz fundraising email comes as people have speculated what the next move will be for the former Florida lawmaker. The House Ethics Committee released a report stating that it found "substantial evidence" that Gaetz allegedly "regularly paid women for engaging in sexual activity with him," in 2017 "engaged in sexual activity with a 17-year-old girl," used or possessed illegal drugs and accepted gifts beyond what is "permissible," among the report's allegations. Gaetz has denied wrongdoing and has not been criminally charged. Newsweek reached out to a spokesperson for Gaetz for comment via email. What To Know Gaetz has not said the he plans to fun for office in the future, but his Florida Firebrand PAC has sent out fundraising emails following the committee's release of the report. "This SHAM WITCH-HUNT is only happening because I ruffled the feathers of the Radical Left and Uniparty during my time as a Congressman. There's a reason why they didn't ever present these allegations in a forum where they could be challenged," one email reads. He wrote that he is now being "FORCED to defend myself after the fact during the holiday season" and that he needs the "help" of his supporters. The PAC launched earlier in December to lead "the charge against the corrupt swamp and the Uniparty by exposing the truth." "The fight continues for the future of our country and Florida. It is America First. Always," the PAC's website reads. Also on Tuesday, Gaetz declined to rule out a quick return to Congress for the House speaker battle in an interview with Semafor. "As America's greatest president says, 'We'll see,' " he said when the publication asked about whether he plans to participate in the Speaker race. Earlier in December, Gaetz posted about the possibility to X (formerly Twitter ). "Someone suggested the following plan to me: 1. Show up 1/3/2025 to congress 2. Participate in Speaker election (I was elected to the 119th Congress, after all...) 3. Take the oath 4. File a privileged motion to expose every "me too" settlement paid using public funds (even of former members) 5. Resign and start my @OANN program at 9pm EST on January 6, 2025," he wrote on December 18. Gaetz resigned from Congress after President-elect Donald Trump named him as his pick to lead the Justice Department when he returns to the White House in January. After several days of backlash and questions about whether he could be confirmed by the Senate , Gaetz withdrew his name from consideration. He wrote in his resignation letter that he does not "intend" to return to Congress in January despite winning reelection in November. What People Are Saying Chad Pergram, Fox News' senior congressional correspondent, on X: " Gaetz suggested over the weekend he wasn't interested in public office again, ranging from the Senate to FL Governo. But now he is fundraising off the Ethics Committee report." Jon Parker, senior lecturer in American studies at Keele University in the U.K. previously told Newsweek on whether Gaetz could return to Congress: "Legally, it is ambiguous because the right to resign isn't in the Constitution. It is conceivable that the House could refuse the resignation." Representative Sean Casten, an Illinois Democrat, on CNN: "The House has to hold itself to a higher ethical standard if we're to have the trust of the American people. We pushed for the release of this report because we want to make sure the House continues to hold itself to that standard." What Happens Next Gaetz is set to begin hosting The Matt Gaetz Show , a political talk show on the conservative-leaning One America News Network, beginning January 6, 2025.