fortune gems withdrawal
Blayre Turnbull and Jess Kondas scores 1st goals of season and Sceptres beat Fleet 4-2Syrian opposition fighters have reached the suburbs of the capital, Damascus, and government forces abandoned the central city of Homs as the rebels' surprising offensive picks up speed. President Bashar Assad's whereabouts are unknown. Homs is an important intersection between Damascus and Syria’s coastal provinces that are the Syrian leader’s base of support. In Damascus, residents described a city on edge, with security forces on the streets and many shops running out of staple foods. The rapidly developing events have shaken the region. Lebanon said it was closing all its land border crossings with Syria except for one that links Beirut with Damascus. Jordan closed a border crossing with Syria, too. Eight key countries gathered with the U.N. special envoy on Syria on the sidelines of the Doha Summit for two hours of discussions Saturday night, and more will follow. The U.N. envoy seeks urgent talks in Geneva to ensure an “orderly political transition.” Here's the Latest: Syrian rebels say they have taken over key city of Homs The Syrian insurgency announced Saturday that it has taken over Homs, following reports of government forces withdrawing from the strategic city. This latest development in the rebels’ swift shock offensive in the war-torn country has left embattled Syrian President Bashar Assad effectively in control of the capital Damascus and two other cities where his key support base among the Alawite Muslim population are based. Homs is an important intersection between Damascus and Syria’s coastal provinces that are the Syrian leader’s base of support. Syrian opposition fighters have reached the suburbs of the capital, Damascus as the rebels’ offensive picks up speed. President Bashar Assad’s whereabouts are unknown. Mother of hostage seen in video says ‘enough with the games’ The mother of an Israeli man held hostage in Gaza and seen in a newly released video by Hamas says “enough with the games” and calls for more pressure on the government of Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu. Einav Zangauker told a demonstration in Tel Aviv on Saturday night that like her son Matan, “there are a few dozen who are currently alive. Don’t allow them to be brought back dead in bags. Take to the streets.” Matan Zangauker, speaking under duress, appealed to the public to protest in front of Netanyahu’s home and “not let him sleep even for a minute.” Zangauker also referred to 420 days of being held by Hamas militants and said “isolation is killing us.” Police used a water cannon on the demonstrators as thousands took to the streets for the weekly anti-government protests. Iran-backed militias watch Syria events before a decision on support Two officials with Iran-backed Iraqi militias in Syria say the militias are monitoring the situation and have not made a decision to enter in support of Iran’s ally, Syrian President Bashar Assad. One of the officials said Iranian militias had withdrawn to Iraq from their positions in Syria. “All the militias are waiting to see what Bashar Assad will do in Damascus. If he resists and does not allow Damascus to fall, it is possible that the Iraqi factions will intervene for the purpose of support,” he said. The officials spoke on condition of anonymity because they were not authorized to speak publicly about the matter. -- Qassim Abdul-Zahra in Baghdad Multi-country talks on Syria end, with more to come Multi-country discussions on Syria have ended on the sidelines of the Doha Summit. Iraqi Foreign Minister Fuad Hussein says the countries will issue a statement, and there will be follow-up talks “taking into consideration the practical and real situation on the ground.” He said the talks, which lasted over two hours Saturday evening, focused on how to stop the fighting. Eight key countries including Saudi Arabia, Russia, Egypt, Turkey and Iran gathered with the U.N. special envoy for Syria, Geir Pedersen. When asked where Syrian President Bashar Assad is, Iraq's foreign minister replied, “I don’t know.” He declined to speculate on whether Assad would be overthrown. Opposition fighters have reached the Damascus suburbs. Lebanon's Health Ministry says Israeli airstrikes kill 6 BEIRUT — Lebanon’s Health Ministry says two Israeli airstrikes in southern Lebanon on Saturday killed six people and wounded five others. The ministry said an airstrike on the village of Beit Leif killed five people and wounded five, while a drone strike on the village of Deir Serian killed one person. Israel’s military said it was looking into the report. Despite a ceasefire that went into effect on Nov. 27 to end the 14-month fighting between Israel and Lebanon-based Hezbollah militants that had escalated into all-out war, violations of the truce have continued. Northern Gaza hospital reports new Israeli bombardment The director of Kamal Adwan Hospital in northern Gaza says the facility came under heavy Israeli bombardment again on Saturday and three medical staff were killed. Dr. Hussam Abu Safia in a statement posted by Gaza’s Health Ministry said the hospital was hit by over 100 projectiles and bombs, and electricity was cut off. He said the surgery department and neonatal unit were hit, and he pleaded for “immediate coordination for repair operations.” Kamal Adwan is one of the last remaining hospitals in northern Gaza. Israeli forces are pressing an offensive that has almost completely sealed off the area from humanitarian aid for two months. Israel’s military said it wasn’t aware of any attack Saturday. The hospital director on Friday said Israeli strikes had killed at least 29 people including four medical staff. Israel's military says it isn't intervening in Syria Israeli Lt. Gen. Herzi Halevi says the military is monitoring the Syrian border to make sure that “local factions do not direct actions towards us,” adding that Israel is not intervening in the events in Syria. Israel’s military has said it is reinforcing its deployment along the border with Syria. Halevi said if “confusion” arises and actions are directed toward Israel by “local factions” taking control of parts of Syria, Israel has a strong “offensive response.” U.N. says it is relocating non-critical staff from Syria The United Nations humanitarian coordinator in Syria says the U.N. is relocating non-critical staff outside the country. Adam Abdelmoula in a statement Saturday called it a precautionary measure to protect U.N. teams. “Let me emphasize—this is not an evacuation and our dedication to supporting the people of Syria remains unwavering,” Abdelmoula said. The statement did not say how many U.N. staffers were leaving Syria as opposition fighters reached the suburbs of Syria’s capital, Damascus. The statement said the fighting in Syria has displaced over 370,000 people as the humanitarian situation deteriorates, “with many seeking refuge in the northeast and others trapped in frontline areas, unable to escape.” Foreign ministers gather at Doha Summit to discuss Syria Foreign ministers and senior diplomats from eight key countries including Saudi Arabia, Russia, Egypt, Turkey and Iran have gathered on the sidelines of the Doha Summit along with the U.N. special envoy for Syria, Geir Pedersen, to discuss the situation in Syria. The talks continued late Saturday and no details were immediately available. Qatar, Jordan and Iraq also were part of the discussions as opposition fighters closed in on the Syrian capital, Damascus. About 2,000 Syrian soldiers cross into Iraq, official says BAGHDAD — An Iraqi government spokesperson says about 2,000 Syrian army soldiers have crossed into Iraq seeking refuge as opposition forces advance in Syria. Bassem al-Awadi said the soldiers’ equipment and weapons were registered and taken into custody by the Iraqi army. “We dealt with them according to the principle of good neighborliness and humanity,” he said Saturday. Al-Awadi also said Iraqi officials are concerned about the security of the al-Hol camp and other facilities in northeast Syria where suspected Islamic State group members and their families are detained. The facilities are guarded by U.S.-backed Kurdish forces. Al-Awadi said there is “high security coordination” between Iraqi officials and those forces to “prevent the prisoners from escaping.” Syria's army fortifies positions in Damascus suburbs Syria's army says it is fortifying its positions in the suburbs of Damascus and in the country’s south, as opposition fighters close in on the capital. The army statement on Saturday also asserted that Syria is being subjected to a “terrorist” and propaganda campaign aiming to destabilize and spread chaos. The statement also said the military is continuing with operations in areas including the central provinces of Hama and Homs, and that it has killed and wounded hundreds of opposition fighters. 2 wounded in car-ramming attack in the West Bank At least two people were wounded in a car-ramming attack in the West Bank on Saturday, according to the Israeli army and rescue services. The army said the attack took place in the area of the Fawwar refugee camp, near the city of Hebron. It said a soldier was severely wounded, and security forces were looking for the attacker. Israel’s Magen David Adom rescue service said another man in his 40s suffered light injuries from shrapnel. The West Bank has seen a surge in violence since Hamas’ Oct. 7, 2023 attack out of Gaza sparked the war there. Israel has intensified its military raids in the West Bank, targeting what it says are militants planning attacks, and there has also been a rise in Palestinian attacks on Israelis. Israel's military assists U.N. forces against attack in Syria The Israeli military says it is helping United Nations forces to head off an attack on a U.N. position in Syria close to the Israeli border. The army said in a statement Saturday that an attack was carried out by “armed individuals” on a U.N. post near the Syrian town of Hader and it was “assisting U.N. forces in repelling the attack.” On Friday, Israel’s military said it would reinforce its forces in the Golan Heights and near the border with Syria, where civil war has reignited between the government and opposition fighters. Hamas releases a video of an Israeli hostage Hamas has released a video showing Israeli hostage Matan Zangauker making an emotional plea for his release and describing the conditions he and other hostages face in Gaza after being seized in the Oct. 7, 2023 attack on Israel. His mother, Einav, has become a symbol of the fight to bring back the hostages and is an outspoken critic of Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu’s government. Matan Zangauker, speaking under duress, appealed to the public to protest in front of Netanyahu’s home and “not let him sleep even for a minute.” Zangauker also referred to 420 days of being held by Hamas militants. “We want to return before we go crazy. Isolation is killing us, and the darkness here is frightening,” he said, describing having little food and medicine and “undrinkable” water. Trump says on Syria that ‘this is not our fight’ President-elect Donald Trump has made his first extensive comments on dramatic advances by opposition fighters in Syria, saying the besieged President Bashar Assad didn’t deserve U.S. support to stay in power. “THIS IS NOT OUR FIGHT,” Trump posted on the Truth Social platform on Saturday. Syrian opposition activists and regional officials have been watching closely for any indication from both the Biden administration and the incoming Trump administration of how the U.S. would handle the sudden advances against Syria’s Russian- and Iranian-allied leader. Trump condemned the overall U.S. handling of the 13-year civil war in Syria, but spoke favorably of the routing of Assad and Russian forces. Turkey says attacks on civilians in Syria were the straw that broke the camel's back ISTANBUL — Turkish President Recep Tayyip Erdogan said Saturday that there was “now a new reality in Syria” following the rapid advance of rebel forces. Speaking in Gaziantep, a city less than 30 miles (48 kilometers) from the Syrian border, Erdogan said that “increasing attacks on civilians” in Syria’s northwest Idlib province “triggered the latest events like the straw that broke the camel’s back.” It was not possible for Turkey to ignore developments in a country with which it shares a lengthy border and it would not allow any threats to its national security, he added in a televised speech. “Our wish is for our neighbor Syria to attain the peace and tranquility it has been longing for for 13 years,” he told a rally of supporters. “We want to see a Syria where different identities live side by side in peace. We hope to see such a Syria in the very near future.” Erdogan claimed President Bashar Assad had erred in rebuffing Turkey’s previous efforts to establish relations, saying Damascus “could not appreciate the value of the hand Turkey extended.” Ankara has supported anti-Assad rebel groups since the early months of the conflict and hosts 3 million refugees dislodged by the fighting. While Turkey lists HTS, the group leading the latest offensive, as a terrorist organization, the Turkey-backed Syrian National Army has worked alongside it. Tension in Damascus as security forces patrol the streets BEIRUT — A resident of the Syrian capital of Damascus says the city is very tense as troops and members of security agencies are deployed on main streets and intersections. The resident told The Associated Press that many shops are closed and those that are open have run out of main commodities such as sugar. He added that if food products are available, some shops are selling them for a price three times higher than usual. “The situation is very strange. We are not used to that,” the resident said on condition of anonymity, fearing retributions. “People are worried whether there will be a battle (in Damascus) or not.” — Bassem Mroue in Beirut Russian foreign minister refuses to make predictions about Syria DOHA, Qatar — Russia’s foreign minister says he has met his Turkish and Iranian counterparts in Doha and that all three countries were calling for an “immediate end to hostile activities” in Syria. Russia and Iran are the chief supporters of Syria’s government, while Turkey backs opposition fighters trying to remove President Bashar Assad from power. Speaking at the annual Doha Forum, Sergey Lavrov said Russia continues to help the Syrian army confront insurgents, military via airstrikes. Asked whether Assad’s rule is threatened by the fast-moving rebel offensive, he said, “We are not in the business of guessing what’s gong to happen.” He blamed the United States and the West for the events in Syria and said, “We are very sorry for the Syrian people who became a subject of another geopolitical experiment. “We are doing everything we can not to make terrorists prevail, even if they say they are not terrorists,” Lavrov said, referring to the de facto leader of the Syrian insurgents, Abu Mohammed al-Golani, who says he has cut links with al-Qaida. His group, Hayat Tahrir al-Sham, is listed as a terrorist organization by the U.S. and United Nations. He said Russia, Iran and Turkey want the full implementation of a U.N. resolution, which endorsed a road map to peace in Syria. Resolution 2254 was adopted unanimously in December 2015. The measure called for a Syrian-led political process, starting with the establishment of a transitional governing body, followed by the drafting of a new constitution and ending with U.N.-supervised elections. Lavrov also downplayed reports that Moscow had withdrawn ships from Russia’s base in Syrian city of Tartus, saying that the vessels had left to take part in naval exercises in the Mediterranean. US envoy says Israel-Hezbollah ceasefire offers opportunity for Lebanon DOHA, Qatar — The U.S. envoy who brokered the ceasefire between Israel and Hezbollah says the deal has created a new opportunity for Lebanon to reshape itself. Amos Hochstein told the Doha Forum that the weakness of Hezbollah after nearly 14 months of fighting along, along with blows to its Syrian and Iranian allies, give the Lebanese military and government a chance to reassert itself. “Now is the moment with this ceasefire to rebuild Lebanon again for a much more prosperous future and stronger state institutions,” Hochstein told The Associated Press on the sidelines of the conference. He said Lebanon needs “to do its part” by rebuilding its economy, choosing a president after years of delays and strengthening its central government to attract investors. “And the international community has a requirement and a responsibility to support Lebanon after this devastating conflict and after years of Hezbollah control,” he said. Hochstein told the conference that the turning point in ceasefire efforts was Hezbollah dropping its pledge to keep fighting as long as the war in Gaza continues. He said the change in position was the result of the heavy losses inflicted on Hezbollah, and Lebanese public opinion in favor of delinking the two conflicts. He said key tests for the ceasefire will be whether Israel carries out its promised phased withdrawal from southern Lebanon over the coming two months and whether the Lebanese army is able to move into those areas. Syrian opposition fighters advance on Damascus BEIRUT — Insurgents and a war monitor say opposition fighters are taking over military posts evacuated by Syrian government forces in the country’s south, bringing them closer to the capital, Damascus. An insurgent official known as Maj. Hassan Abdul-Ghani posted on the Telegram messaging app that opposition fighters are now in the town of Sanamein, about 20 kilometers (12 miles) from the southern outskirts of Damascus, President Bashar Assad’s seat of power. Rami Abdurrahman, who heads the Britain-based opposition Syrian Observatory for Human Rights, said insurgents have entered the town of Artouz, which is about 10 kilometers (6 miles) southwest of Damascus. Opposition fighters have captured wide parts of Syria, including several provincial capitals, since they began their offensive on Nov. 27. Lebanese government approves a plan to deploy more troops along the Israeli border BEIRUT — Lebanon’s government has approved a plan to deploy more troops along the border with Israel, part of the ceasefire deal that ended the Israel-Hezbollah war. In a rare Cabinet meeting outside of Beirut, held Saturday at a military base in the southern port city of Tyre, the government also approved a draft law to reconstruct buildings destroyed during the Israel-Hezbollah war that broke out in October 2023 and ended with a U.S.-brokered ceasefire last week. Information Minister Ziad Makary told reporters after the meeting that the committee whose job is to monitor the ceasefire that went into effect on Nov. 27 will hold its first meeting on Monday. The committee is made up of military officials from the U.S., France, Israel and Lebanon as well as the U.N. peacekeeping force deployed along the border. As part of the ceasefire deal, during the first 60 days Israeli troops will have to withdraw from Lebanon, while Hezbollah will have to pull its heavy weapons away from the border area to north of the Litani river. The Lebanese army said this week it will begin recruiting more soldiers, apparently to deploy them along the border with Israel. Syrian army withdraws from much of southern Syria BEIRUT — The Syrian army withdrew from much of southern Syria on Saturday, leaving more areas of the country, including two provincial capitals, under the control of opposition fighters, the military and an opposition war monitor said. The redeployment away from the provinces of Daraa and Sweida came as Syria’s military sent large numbers of reinforcements to defend the key central city of Homs, Syria’s third largest, as insurgents approached its outskirts. The rapid advances by insurgents are a stunning reversal of fortunes for Syria’s President Bashar Assad , who appears to be largely on his own, with erstwhile allies preoccupied with other conflicts. His chief international backer, Russia, is busy with its war in Ukraine, and Lebanon’s powerful Hezbollah, which at one point sent thousands of fighters to shore up his forces, has been weakened by a yearlong conflict with Israel. Iran, meanwhile, has seen its proxies across the region degraded by Israeli regular airstrikes. Israel kills Palestinian man who attacked security forces at border crossing JERUSALEM — Israeli security forces killed a Palestinian man after he attacked them at a border crossing in the Israeli-occupied West Bank on Saturday morning, police said. The man shot firecrackers at security forces at the checkpoint and threatened them with a knife, the police statement said. The man wore a t-shirt emblazoned with a symbol of the Islamic State militant group, according to an Associated Press reporter Israeli fire has killed at least 700 Palestinians in the West Bank since the Israel-Hamas war began last year, Palestinian health officials said. In that time, Palestinian militants have launched a number of attacks on soldiers at checkpoints and within Israel. Qatari prime minister sees movement in Gaza ceasefire negotiations DOHA, Qatar — The prime minister of Qatar says he has seen new momentum in Gaza ceasefire efforts since the U.S. presidential election, with the incoming Trump administration seeking an end to the conflict before it takes office. Sheikh Mohammed bin Abdulrahman Al Thani, a key mediator in the ceasefire efforts, declined to give specifics of the negotiations but told an international conference in Doha that the gaps between the sides are not large. Qatar, which has served as a mediator throughout the 14-month war, suspended its efforts last month in frustration over the lack of progress. But Sheikh Mohammed said his government has re-engaged in recent days after determining a new willingness by both parties to reach a deal. ’We have sensed after the election that the momentum is coming back,” he told the Doha Forum on Saturday. He said has been in touch with both the outgoing Biden administration and the incoming Trump administration and found that while there are some differences in approach, both are committed to the same goal of ending the war. ’We have seen a lot of encouragement from the incoming administration in order to achieve a deal, even before the president comes to the office,” Sheikh Mohammed said. He declined to discuss details, saying he wanted to “protect the process,” but expressed hope for a deal “as soon as possible.” ’If you look at the gaps and the disagreements, they are not something substantial that really affects the agreement,” he said. Israeli strikes kill at least 29 at hard-hit Gaza hospital CAIRO — At least 29 people were killed, including four medical staff, when Israeli strikes pummeled the area around one of the last remaining hospitals in northern Gaza, Palestinian officials said. The situation in and around the Kamal Adwan hospital is “catastrophic,” according to Dr. Hussam Abu Safia, the director of the hospital. The dead included five children and five women, according to the hospital casualty list, which was obtained by The Associated Press. Friday’s strikes also wounded 55 people including six children and the five women, according to the hospital. Kamal Adwan Hospital in Beit Lahiya is one of the few hospitals still partially operating in the Gaza’s northernmost province , where Israeli forces are pressing an offensive that has almost completely sealed off the area from humanitarian aid for two months. Israel’s military denied that its forces had struck the hospital or operated inside it. The army said that in the past few weeks, “coordinated efforts with international organizations have been underway in order to transfer patients, companions, and medical staff to other hospitals.” An Indonesian medical team which had been assisting in Kamal Adwan for the past week was forced to evacuate on foot after the area was surrounded by Israeli soldiers, according to a statement from the team. The Israeli military did not immediately comment on the medical team’s expulsion. Dr. Rik Peeperkorn, the World Health Organization representative in the Palestinian territories, said an Israeli tank approached the hospital at around 4 a.m. Friday. Although no official Israeli evacuation order was issued, “people started to climb the wall to escape, and this panic attracted IDF (Israeli) fire,” he said. He spoke by video from Gaza to journalists in Geneva. Kamal Adwan Hospital has been struck multiple times over the past two months since Israel launched a fierce military operation in northern Gaza against Hamas militants. In October, Israeli forces raided the hospital, saying that militants were sheltering inside and arrested a number of people, including some staff. Hospital officials denied the claim. Saudi Arabia calls for and end to Gaza war and attacks Israel's actions MANAMA, Bahrain — Saudi Arabia’s foreign minister has reiterated the kingdom’s call for an end to the war in the Gaza Strip. Prince Faisal bin Farhan described Israel as acting with “impunity and is getting away without punishment” in its war on Hamas there. The prince said that any permanent solution requires a two-state solution, with the Palestinians having east Jerusalem as their capital. After the speech, Prince Turki al-Faisal, a prominent royal in the kingdom who led Saudi intelligence for more than two decades and served as ambassador to the U.S. and Britain, took the stage. He harshly criticized Israel’s conduct in the wars. “Israel has become an apartheid, colonial and genocidal state,” Prince Turki said. “It is about time for the world to address that issue and take the necessary steps to bring those who are thus charged by the International Criminal Court to justice.” Israeli officials could not be immediately reached for comment on Prince Turki’s remarks. The Saudis spoke at the International Institute for Security Studies’ Manama Dialogue in Bahrain.
Vikings edge rusher Jonathan Greenard finally getting recognition he deserves
Independent retailers are the backbone of the American economy. Small businesses such as bodegas, corner stores, and family-run convenience stores offer much more than just a place to buy essential goods–they often serve as cultural touchpoints and gathering spaces in cities across the country. But while these businesses are essential to modern society, they are currently facing more challenges than ever before. Corporate giants, e-commerce, and the rising cost of living all pose serious threats to small retailers trying to stay afloat. This is the challenge Elie Y. Katz set out to overcome eight years ago when he founded National Retail Solutions (NRS) . As a businessman who has witnessed the struggles of small retailers firsthand, Katz’s mission was simple: to give these businesses the tools they needed to thrive in today’s retail landscape. “Small retailers are much more than a place to shop. They are cultural hubs, supporting local economies, employing residents, and creating a sense of community,” says Katz. “Our mission at NRS is to empower small businesses to thrive despite competition from larger retail chains.” Katz is no stranger to the complexities of running a small business. An entrepreneur with years of experience in public service, Katz has owned and operated several food establishments, working closely with local retailers and becoming attuned to the unique pressures they face. This personal connection is the driving force of NRS, guiding the company’s human-centered approach and contributing to its rapid success. To Katz, no client is simply a name on a page, but rather a flourishing business and vital piece of the local neighborhood. NRS offers a suite of solutions specifically designed to address the most common challenges of independent retailers. The NRS POS system is the company’s flagship product, offering much more than just a way to ring up customers. The system is equipped with features like real-time sales analytics, inventory management, and customer loyalty programs designed to maximize earnings and minimize waste. Facing an endless sea of competitors with increasingly advanced technology at their disposal, Katz is offering small businesses the means to stay competitive. “We focus on creating user-friendly, affordable technology that strengthens independent retailers’ operations,” Katz explains. Safety is another pressing concern for urban retailers, especially those open after dark. To protect workers and minimize theft, NRS created a patented Panic Alarm Button discreetly integrated into its POS system. With the push of a button, employees can silently and instantly alert authorities in the event of an emergency. The Panic Alarm Button was first piloted in New York City bodegas in 2023 before expanding nationwide in 2024. Since its introduction, this safety feature has been a game-changer in keeping retailers and their customers safe. “The Panic Alarm Button has been a transformative safety tool for retailers, especially in areas where security is a concern,” Katz notes. “It provides peace of mind while enhancing customer confidence in the shopping environment.” Another useful tool in fighting theft is NRS’s upcoming POS-DVR Camera Integration, which overlays transaction data onto real-time surveillance footage. By allowing store owners to coordinate transactions with security footage, this feature will give store owners more power to monitor activity and reduce theft. “We’re helping store owners answer the question, ‘Who’s watching your store when you’re not there?’” says Katz. Another rising challenge facing small businesses is the growth of e-commerce. In today’s society, having an online presence is a necessary component of a thriving business. That’s why NRS launched its Ultimate E-Commerce Package in late 2023, allowing retailers to build their own fully branded, mobile-friendly websites that work hand-in-hand with their POS systems. Using the Ultimate E-Commerce Package, shop owners can sync their inventory, handle payment processing, offer online ordering, and even connect to delivery platforms like Uber and DoorDash. “Our Ultimate E-Commerce Package enables retailers to offer the same convenience customers expect from larger chains,” Katz explains. “It helps them grow their sales and brand presence online.” NRS launched a new feature called LottoShield in November 2024, a fraud prevention system aimed at helping retailers that deal in lottery sales. LottoShield connects directly with state lottery data to allow for faster ticket tracking, reconciliation, and inventory management. Many businesses that sell lottery tickets depend heavily on these sales, which is why LottoShield is such a vital tool for reducing theft and inefficiency. “LottoShield reduces the risk of loss and simplifies store operations,” Katz says. “Retailers can focus on running their businesses more efficiently without worrying about lottery-related shrinkage.” NRS’s latest rollout was NRS Purple, a payroll and workforce management platform launched in December 2024. This tool consolidates the complex ins and outs of payroll management, offering tools like automatic tax compliance, unlimited payroll cycles, and easy integration with accounting software. No longer will small business owners have to spend hours studying complicated tax regulations and crunching numbers. “NRS Purple eliminates the stress of payroll, allowing retailers to concentrate on what they do best—running their businesses,” says EKatz. Despite the countless tools NRS has created to help struggling business owners, the company is constantly devising new features to make running a business that much simpler. One upcoming feature is PayPod, a standalone cash-handling terminal designed to allow customers to directly deposit cash without the help of an employee. This new tool will minimize theft by reducing the number of people handling cash while giving customers a way to deposit cash late at night when fewer staff members are working. These powerful, innovative tools from NRS are proving a lifeline to independent retailers struggling in an evolving economic landscape, assisting them with everything from inventory management to e-commerce. Thanks to Katz’s deep-rooted commitment to his community, small businesses in cities throughout the country are able to continue being a shining light in their communities.
President-elect Donald Trump will name ex-Sen. David Perdue (R-Ga.) as his choice for ambassador to China, a pivotal role in shaping the future of U.S.-China relations . Perdue, who served in the U.S. Senate from 2015 to 2021, is known for his strong stance on China, a position that has earned him the label of “anti-China” from Chinese think tanks, BBC reports . The selection places Perdue at the heart of one of the most critical foreign policy challenges for the United States, as tensions with China continue to escalate, particularly over trade and military influence. Perdue’s career is a blend of business acumen and political service. Before entering politics, he held senior executive positions at major companies, including Reebok and Dollar General Corporation DG , per Britannica , where he became known for his successful turnarounds of struggling businesses. His corporate background has been both praised by investors and criticized by political opponents, who argue that his methods favored shareholders over the well-being of employees. Also Read: FBI Warns Of Ongoing China-Backed Telecom Hacks: Here’s Why Encrypted Messaging Could Be Your Last Line Of Defense When he first ran for the Senate, Perdue presented himself as a businessman who could bring pragmatic solutions to Washington’s complex issues. During his time in the Senate, Perdue was vocal about the growing threat posed by China. He advocated for a stronger U.S. military, particularly the Navy, to counter China’s increasing military presence in the region. His views align with the broader “hawkish” approach of Trump’s foreign policy team, which has taken a hard line on China’s economic practices and military expansion. In a September essay, Perdue described China’s government as a force seeking to undermine U.S. capitalism and democracy, framing the nation as a strategic adversary, CNN reports . The Trump administration has vowed to impose tough tariffs on Chinese imports, citing the longstanding trade imbalance between the two nations. Perdue’s appointment as ambassador is expected to play a key role in managing this delicate and potentially volatile relationship, as the U.S. looks to navigate the complex dynamics of trade, security, and diplomacy with one of its biggest global rivals. Perdue lost his Senate seat to Democrat Jon Ossoff in 2020 and later ran unsuccessfully for governor of Georgia in 2022, challenging incumbent Republican Gov. Brian Kemp in a primary that Kemp won easily. During his gubernatorial campaign, he echoed Trump’s false claims of electoral fraud in the 2020 election. Read Next: Trump’s Transition Team Considering Undoing USPS’s Contracts With Ford, Oshkosh For Electrifying Fleet: Report Photo: Wikimedia Commons © 2024 Benzinga.com. Benzinga does not provide investment advice. All rights reserved.The 11-1 Kansas City Chiefs host the 8-4 LA Chargers on Sunday Night Football. This match-up is always one to savor as it pits Patrick Mahomes and Justin Herbert against one another – and you can watch Chargers vs Chiefs live stream online from anywhere with a VPN . Both teams head into this match-up with big wins in Week 13. The Chargers flew cross-country to Atlanta and downed the Falcons thanks to an excellent defensive performance. The Chiefs triumphed at home on Black Friday, thanks to a last-minute error from the Las Vegas Raiders that preserved Kansas City's perfect home record. At 11-1, the Chiefs are in pole position for the AFC's number one playoff seed but they cannot afford to ease up. The Buffalo Bills are on the warpath. The Chargers currently hold the fifth seed in the AFC. Per the NFL , a Chargers win in this game will give LA a 99% chance of qualifying for the playoffs. However, the Chargers have injury issues to overcome before kick-off for this matchup. Influential wideout Ladd McConkey and star defensive Elijah Molden are concerns. With both teams having plenty to play for in this game, read on for how to watch Chargers vs Chiefs, along with all of this season's football, with our 2024/25 NFL live streams guide . Chargers vs Chiefs injury report Chargers injury report: WR Ladd McConkey (Limited Practice), CB Elijah Molden (Limited Practice), S Tony Jefferson (No Practice), LB Denzel Perryman (Limited Practice), LB Bud Dupree (Limited Practice), LB Daiyan Henley (Limited Practice) Chiefs injury report: T Jawaan Taylor (Limited Practice), TE Noah Gray (Full Practice) How to watch Chargers vs Chiefs from anywhere Away from home at the moment and blocked from watching NFL on your usual subscription? You can still tune in via a virtual private network, or VPN . A VPN makes it appear like you're surfing the web from your home country, allowing you to access the streaming services you already pay for, even when on holiday or working abroad. We've tested many VPN services and our favorite is NordVPN . As we point out in our NordVPN review , it offers superb speeds and a no-questions-asked 30-day money-back guarantee . That's why it's one of our best VPN services . Using a VPN is incredibly simple, just follow these steps. 1. Install the VPN of your choice . As we've said, NordVPN is our favorite. 2. Choose the location you wish to connect to in the VPN app. For instance if you're in the U.K. and want to view your usual U.S. service, you'd select U.S. from the list. 3. Sit back and enjoy the action. Head to one of the services listed below and watch the Chargers vs Chiefs live stream as normal. How to watch Chargers vs Chiefs live stream in the U.S. In the U.S., the Chargers vs Chiefs live stream is on NBC , which is available with most cable TV packages. If you've already cut the cord, consider watching the game on Sling TV or Fubo — two of the best streaming services for live TV. The Sling Blue package starts at just $40 per month (depending on your location) and comes with more than 40 channels, including NBC in select cities. Fubo is another option for this game. For $80 per month, you can sign up for Fubo and its 121 channels, including NBC, all the broadcast networks, ESPN and more. Traveling outside the U.S. on Sunday? You can use a VPN to help you access your existing subscription and watch Chargers vs Chiefs as if you were at home. The one we recommend is NordVPN. How to watch Chargers vs Chiefs live stream in the U.K. In the U.K., the Chargers vs Chiefs game is being shown on on Sky Sports NFL and will be available on NFL GamePass. Kick off is at 1:20 a.m. GMT on Monday, December 9. If you're currently traveling overseas, don't worry, as you can use NordVPN to watch Chargers vs Chiefs from abroad via your usual service. How to watch Chargers vs Chiefs live stream in Australia In Australia, the Chargers vs Chiefs live stream will be shown on ESPN via Foxtel . Don't have Foxtel and don't want to subscribe? Specialist streaming service Kayo Sports is also showing the Chargers vs Chiefs, with its affordable, commitment-free plans starting from just $25/month, and hosting plenty of NBA basketball, cricket, AFL, rugby , F1 and loads of other live sports besides. There's also a 7-day FREE trial for anybody who hasn't used the service before, as well as the option to get your first month for just $1. Chargers vs Chiefs, along with every game of the season, will also be shown on NFL Game Pass . A subscription costs AU$279.99 for the full campaign — payable in four instalments of AU$70 — or AU$28.99 a week. Not at home right now? Use NordVPN or another VPN service to tap into your usual subscriptions from anywhere. How to watch Chargers vs Chiefs live streams in Canada There are a couple of options for watching Chargers vs Chiefs live streams in Canada. The game will be shown on TSN/CTV Network. DAZN , however, will live stream Chargers vs Chiefs, along with every game of the NFL season. A monthly DAZN subscription costs CA$29.99 and includes regular season games and Super Bowl 2025 in addition to other sports. If you want to save some money, you can save 50% with a CA$199.99 annual subscription. To get the most games possible, add NFL Game Pass to your existing DAZN subscription. More from Tom's Guide
Sutton scores 23, Omaha knocks off Sacramento State 70-60How one of the world’s richest men could pull off a mega-tax dodgeLibrary of Congress Offers AI Legal Guidance to ResearchersLive Blog: Soo Greyhounds at Erie Otters
Justin Bieber and Hailey Bieber’s world revolves around their adorable four-month-old son, Jack Blues. The family is all happy and complete and the couple is spending time with the little baby boy. Amid rumours of Justin and Hailey expecting their second child, an insider revealed to a news portal that they have no plans of expanding their family currently. Their priority is raising their son and enjoying the new phase. Hailey and Justin’s Family ContentmentAccording to a Page Six report, Justin, Hailey, and baby Jack are cherishing every moment as a family of three. They feel complete and are not considering growing their family at this time. An insider revealed, "Hailey feels incredibly blessed to be celebrating her first Christmas as a mom." When Justin asked Hailey what she wanted for Christmas this year, she couldn’t think of anything because, according to her, she already has everything she could ever wish for. Amid this, the insider also shared, "They couldn't be happier.. Hailey has seen a whole different side to Justin since becoming a father, and she's more in love with him than ever." ALSO READ: Justin Bieber Posts Love-Soaked Pics With Wife Hailey From Costa Rica Vacation, Fans Believe There's Selena Gomez Connection Justin and Hailey’s Parenthood JourneyThe couple is fully embracing parenthood, from juggling diaper duties to enduring sleepless nights. Despite the challenges, they are in no rush for a second child. That said, the idea isn’t off the table. The insider added, "They have discussed having more kids, but for now, they’re happy with where things are." Justin Bieber Stunned Yet Happy for Ex-Girlfriend Selena GomezAccording to a Radar Online report, Justin Bieber was "stunned" but genuinely happy for his ex-girlfriend Selena Gomez, who recently got engaged to producer Benny Blanco. Justin believes that with this new chapter in Selena's life, fans might finally stop rooting for the "Zelena" pairing. Get Latest News Live on Times Now along with Breaking News and Top Headlines from Hollywood, Entertainment News and around the world.
If You Feel Like The Clutter In Your Home Is Out To Get You, These 27 Things Will Help Contain ItLockheed Martin Corp. stock underperforms Wednesday when compared to competitors
None
SACRAMENTO, Calif. — It's the season of gifting and we're not just talking about what you'll give to family and friends there are a variety of ways you can uplift your favorite charity. Kathryn McCall, CFP and vice president at CapTrust, said you can put away your wallet because she has three favorite methods of donating including a Donor-Advised-Fund, the Qualified Charitable Distribution and the transfer of highly appreciated stock. "Donor-Advised-Fund to save on taxes — if this was a good income year for you — you might consider doing a Donor-Advised Fund as a way to create a large charitable deduction this year," McCall said. "The Donor-Advised-Fund is a unique option, which allows you to get an up-front tax deduction for a large contribution to this account but doesn't require that you distribute the money to a specific charity at that time." To hear McCall's tips on Qualified Charitable Distribution and transferring highly appreciated stock, watch the video above. See more coverage of top California stories here | Download our app | Subscribe to our morning newsletter
Congratulations are in order for Barry the brush turkey, who took up residence in the grounds of a Sutherland apartment block about three years ago in an effort to find a mate. or signup to continue reading Carolyn Williams, who has been keeping an eye on Barry, has broken "the incredible news" she has just seen "two fluffy brown baby Barry's scratching around next to the mound". Mrs Williams, who works nearby at Tynan Motors and regularly walks the area for exercise during her lunch break, emailed the , saying: "You probably don't remember, however a few years ago you wrote an interest piece based on an email from myself about Barry, a brush turkey that has taken up residence outside 104 Flora St, Sutherland. "This was super exciting as brush turkeys were / are virtually non-existent around the Shire. "He built a very large mound outside the apartment complex and caused an absolute mess, however delighted locals, some of which had never seen this breed of bird. "I am pleased to update you with the incredible news that this month, he and Mrs. Barry have successfully bred for the first time! "The first year or 2 after my initial email, Barry continued to build his mound in the exact same location as the first year, however remained a bachelor. "Last year he was joined by a mate, however no babies resulted. "To my delight, I was just walking past and 2 fluffy brown baby Barry's were scratching around next to the mound. "I have attached a few pictures, however was not able to get better ones as the babies ran away. "I find Barry's survival extremely surprising given that he is always walking on the road around the Auburn and Flora Street intersection, which is very busy and many cars speed along Flora Street towards Acacia Ave. "The entire area is also built out with unit blocks, and feral (and domestic) cats roam free." A male brush turkey has chosen an extremely dangerous spot at Sutherland to build an incubation mound in his bid to attract a mate. He might also find his efforts are unrewarded because sightings of the protected species, of either gender, are rare in this part of Sydney. The brush turkey, with striking red head, blue-black plumage and booming call, has made his home at the front of an apartment block in Flora Street. Across the road, two large developments are under construction with regular deliveries of building equipment by big trucks. Major transport arteries, Acacia Road and President Avenue are close by. Carolyn Williams, who works nearby at Tynan Motors and regularly walks the area for exercise during her lunch break, has been watching since April as the brush turkey has built his metre-high mound by scratching together leaf litter, vegetation and earth. Ms Williams calls him "Barry", but residents, who feed and watch over him, have other names for him. "I am terribly concerned for his safety as he walks around Flora Street and Auburn Street, both of which are busy," Ms Williams said. "There are also many feral and domestic cats in the neighbourhood." Ms Williams said she think "Barry" has little hope of finding a mate in his present location. An avid hiker, she has come across many brush turkeys in bushland on Sydney's north side, but has rarely seen one in the shire. In January this year (2022), a brush turkey greeted early morning swimmers and gym users at Sutherland Leisure Centre. National Parks and Wildlife Service says the Australian brush turkey, a native also known as bush or scrub turkey, can be found in rainforests and adjacent eucalypt forests along eastern NSW. "When breeding, the male brush turkey builds a large mound of leaf litter in which the female lays her eggs. The decomposing vegetation gives off heat which helps incubate the eggs. Upon hatching, the chicks dig their way out through the layers." An expert told in 2018 rush turkeys were almost certainly in Australia when Europeans first arrived, but largely disappeared from the Sydney area during the Depression when they were hunted for food. St George and Sutherland Shire Leader reporter covering politics, urban affairs, council, development and general community news.Email: mtrembath@theleader.com.au St George and Sutherland Shire Leader reporter covering politics, urban affairs, council, development and general community news.Email: mtrembath@theleader.com.auTouchless trash cans are one of the latest innovations in automated kitchen technology. They use infrared motion sensors to automatically lift the lid, allowing users to dispose of trash without touching the can. This hands-free operation makes them not only efficient and easy to use but also improves kitchen hygiene as it helps reduce contact with germs, bacteria and parasites that are often found in household waste. Choosing the ideal touchless trash can for your home will depend on several factors, from the number of people in your household to the shape, size and material that best suits your decor. As with regular trash cans, there are many different shapes and styles available. The most common shapes are round, oval, square or rectangular. While shape can play a factor in determining which trash can to get, it is more important to find the right size trash can for your space. A 13-gallon trash can is standard for a kitchen. However, a smaller 5- to 10-gallon option would be better if you want to place it in a cabinet. For large families that generate a lot of waste, a larger 20 to 30-gallon trash can may be preferable. The most common materials are either metal or plastic. While plastic is certainly the cheaper option, metal trash cans are more durable. A stainless steel trash can is a good option, as it will match kitchen appliances and won’t rust or tarnish with time. However, metal trash cans are more pricey, retailing between $100 and $200, depending on their size and features. There are only two choices when it comes to a power source: battery or mains. A mains-powered trash can requires a permanent power source, restricting its location options. Battery-powered trash cans can be placed wherever you like and are particularly suitable for bathrooms. Look for a model that gives a warning when the batteries need replacing to avoid any inconvenience. The features of a trash can significantly impact the price, so it is important to decide which features you would like. Some trash cans have carbon filters that absorb unpleasant odors; however, remember that the filters must be replaced periodically. Other trash cans may feature a locking mechanism, which is handy if you have pets or small children because the lid will remain closed even if it’s knocked over. simplehuman 45 Liter / 12 Gallon Semi-Round Automatic Sensor Trash Can What you need to know: An elegant-looking option available in a range of metallic and colored finishes. What you’ll love: It has a smooth and quiet motor. The surface is protected with an antimicrobial coating that inhibits the growth of bacteria. What you should consider : At 36 inches tall, it’s too big to fit inside a cabinet. iTouchless 13 Gallon Kitchen Trash Can with Lid and Odor Filter What you need to know: It is available in a range of shapes and sizes, and it has a fingerprint-proof stainless steel body. What you’ll love: A choice of either battery or mains power provides versatility. It has a built-in natural carbon odor filter and a lockable lid. What you should consider : It doesn’t come with batteries or a mains adapter. SensorCan MT04SS-9 Touchless Trash Can What you need to know: With a 4-gallon capacity, this trash can is ideal for use in a kitchen cabinet or a bathroom. What you’ll love: It effectively filters odors and comes with a lemon-scented fragrance cartridge. What you should consider : Although the body is made from metal, the lid is made from plastic, so it may not be as durable. iTouchless 16 Gallon Touchless Sensor Kitchen Trash Can and Recycle Bin with Wheels What you need to know: This versatile option makes separating your recyclables from your waste easy because it has two removable inner buckets with handles. What you’ll love: This trash can can be powered by batteries or an AC adapter. It can be easily moved around the kitchen with optional casters. What you should consider : The battery compartment is below the trash level, so you need to be careful to avoid getting the batteries wet. Prices listed reflect time and date of publication and are subject to change. Check out our Daily Deals for the best products at the best prices and sign up here to receive the BestReviews weekly newsletter full of shopping inspo and sales. BestReviews spends thousands of hours researching, analyzing and testing products to recommend the best picks for most consumers. BestReviews and its newspaper partners may earn a commission if you purchase a product through one of our links.
Gunshot Fired at Bonia Polling Station in Navrongo Amid Election Tensions