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A United Kingdom-based businessman, Mr. Blessing Akinleminu, has raised the alarm over plans by the Ondo State Police Command and Assistant Inspector General of Police, Zone 17, Akure, to sweep the case of his alleged attack by some political thugs under the carpet. Akinleminu, who said he was attacked a few days before the last governorship election in the state by political hoodlums in Idanre community, in Idanre Local Government Area of the state, on 12 November, alleged that the police had been treating the case with kid gloves. According to him, some hoodlums suspected to be political thugs attacked him and shot him in the stomach. He said that despite reporting the incident to the police, they had failed to conduct an investigation into the matter. He maintained that none of the attackers had been arrested since then, alleging that both the offices of the state Commissioner of Police and the AIG have been treating the case with kid gloves. In a statement made available to our correspondent by Akinleminu’s lawyer, Mr. John Olowookere, it was alleged that the attackers had been identified while a petition had been written to the office of the AIG. However, the petition was allegedly suppressed and left unattended. The statement read: “It is our brief also that on or about the 12th day of November 2024, our client (Blessing) was at a place in Idanre, his hometown, with some of his friends together with the two police officers officially assigned to him for his security protection, when all of a sudden, some armed men (some were masked) invaded the place and attacked our client with gunshots. His friends were badly injured, while the police officers were practically helpless in the circumstances, as the attack was sudden and calculated to eliminate our client. “Upon the gunshot received by our client on the side of his stomach from the assailants, our client was rushed to the University of Medical Sciences Specialist Hospital, Akure, Ondo State, where he received medical treatment. He was admitted at the hospital before being moved by his family to another hospital in Akure for intensive medical attention to save his life. “It is further briefed that the ugly incident of the attack was reported first at Alade Police Station and later at Idanre Divisional Police Station, but both stations treated it with kid gloves, which prompted our client to retain the services of a legal practitioner to submit a formal petition to the AIG for discreet police investigation. “The lawyer submitted the petition dated 14 November 2024, and it was approved for necessary investigation. “However, to the consternation of our client, investigation into the aforementioned petition was deliberately suppressed by the police at the AIG’s office without any valid reason for why the incident was not investigated, even though the petition had been approved for discreet police investigation. “This unhealthy and sad development frustrated our client to return to his base in the United Kingdom, against his initial intention to stay for a while in the country.” The legal practitioner called on the government and other stakeholders to assist his client in getting justice, claiming that the alleged perpetrators were still moving around the town untouched. “Our client is crying to high heaven, calling on the government and well-meaning members of society to rise to the occasion and defend the cause of our client against the suspects, who are now boastfully moving around Idanre town, claiming they are untouchable and that they are the reason why the case was not investigated to date. “It is on this note that we are calling on all relevant stakeholders to come to the aid of our client before it is too late. This is the highest demand for justice that we have ever made.” While reacting, the state Police Public Relations Officer, Funmi Odunlami, denied the allegation, saying the command was properly handling the case when the complainant requested the AIG to handle it. She said: “The investigation was ongoing when he (Blessing) said he wanted his case to be handled by Zone 17 (AIG), not that the case was not handled properly,” the PPRO explained. When contacted, the Public Relations Officer of Zone 17, Mr. Akeem Adeola, said he was not aware of the complainant’s petition but would find out. “It is not possible for the zone to get the petition and not act on it. I will find out when I get to the office tomorrow (Friday),” Adeola said.

The aching Steelers still control their destiny in the AFC North. Their grasp, however, is slippingThe Evolving Role of ctDNA in Guiding Adjuvant Chemotherapy Decisions in CRC: Insights from Stacey A. Cohen, MD

President-elect Donald Trump has filled the key posts for his second term in office, prioritizing loyalty to him after he felt bruised and hampered by internal squabbling during his first term. Some of his choices could face difficult confirmation fights in the Senate, even with Republicans in control, and one candidate has already withdrawn from consideration. Former Florida Rep. Matt Gaetz was Trump's initial pick for attorney general, but he ultimately withdrew following scrutiny over a federal sex trafficking investigation he was embroiled in. Here's a look at Trump's choices: Trump would turn a former critic into an ally as the nation's top diplomat. Rubio , 53, is a noted hawk on China, Cuba and Iran, and was a finalist to be Trump's running mate before the slot went to JD Vance. Rubio is vice chairman of the Senate Intelligence Committee and a member of the Senate Foreign Relations Committee. His selection punctuates the hard pivot Rubio has made with Trump, whom the senator once called a “con man" during his own unsuccessful campaign for the 2016 Republican presidential nomination. Their relationship improved dramatically while Trump was in the White House. Hegseth , 44, was a co-host of Fox News Channel’s “Fox and Friends Weekend” and had been a contributor with the network since 2014. He developed a friendship with Trump, who made regular appearances on the show. Hegseth served in the Army National Guard from 2002 to 2021, deploying to Iraq in 2005 and Afghanistan in 2011 and earning two Bronze Stars. He lacks senior military and national security experience and would oversee global crises ranging from Europe to the Middle East. A woman told police that she was sexually assaulted in 2017 by Hegseth after he took her phone, blocked the door to a California hotel room and refused to let her leave, according to a detailed investigative report recently made public. Hegseth told police at the time that the encounter had been consensual and has denied any wrongdoing. Bessent , 62, is a former money manager for George Soros , a big Democratic donor, and an advocate for deficit reduction . He founded the hedge fund Key Square Capital Management after having worked on and off for Soros Fund Management since 1991. If confirmed by the Senate, Bessent would be the nation’s first openly gay treasury secretary. He told Bloomberg in August that he decided to join Trump’s campaign in part to attack the mounting U.S. national debt. That would include slashing government programs and other spending. Gabbard, 43, is a former Democratic House member from Hawaii who has been accused of echoing Russian propaganda. She unsuccessfully sought the party’s 2020 presidential nomination and left the party in 2022. Gabbard endorsed Trump in August and campaigned often with him. Gabbard has served in the Army National Guard for more than two decades and deployed to Iraq and Kuwait. If confirmed she would come to the role as an outsider compared to her predecessor. The current director, Avril Haines, spent several years in top national security and intelligence positions. Bondi , 59, was Florida's first female attorney general, serving between 2011 and 2019. She was on Trump’s legal team during his first impeachment trial in 2020. Considered a loyalist , Bondi also has served with the America First Policy Institute, a Trump-allied group that has helped lay the groundwork for his future administration. Bondi was among a group of Republicans who showed up to support Trump at his hush-money criminal trial in New York that ended in May with a conviction on 34 felony counts. A fierce defender of Trump, she also frequently appeared on Fox News and has been critical of the criminal cases against him. The Republican U.S. House member narrowly lost her reelection bid on Nov. 5 but had received strong backing from union members in her district. As a potential labor secretary, Chavez-DeRemer would oversee the department's workforce and budget and put forth priorities that affect workers’ wages, health and safety, ability to unionize, and employer’s rights to fire employers, among other responsibilities. Chavez-DeRemer is one of a few House Republicans to endorse the “Protecting the Right to Organize” or PRO Act that would allow more workers to conduct organizing campaigns and penalize companies that violate workers’ rights. The act would also weaken “right-to-work” laws in more than half the states. Lutnick heads the brokerage and investment bank Cantor Fitzgerald and is a cryptocurrency enthusiast. He is co-chair of Trump's transition operation, charged along with Linda McMahon, a former wrestling executive who previously led Trump’s Small Business Administration, with helping the president-elect fill key jobs in his second administration. As secretary, Lutnick would play a key role in carrying out Trump's plans to raise and enforce tariffs. He would oversee a sprawling Cabinet department whose oversight ranges from funding new computer chip factories and imposing trade restrictions to releasing economic data and monitoring the weather. Noem is a well-known conservative who used her two terms as South Dakota's governor to vault to a prominent position in Republican politics. During the COVID-19 pandemic, Noem did not order restrictions like other states, instead declaring South Dakota “open for business.” More recently, Noem faced sharp criticism for writing in her memoir about shooting and killing her dog. She is set to lead a department crucial to the president-elect’s hardline immigration agenda as well as other missions. Homeland Security oversees natural disaster response, the U.S. Secret Service and Transportation Security Administration agents who work at airports. Ratcliffe , a former U.S. House member from Texas, was director of national intelligence during the final year and a half of Trump’s first term. He led U.S. government’s spy agencies during the coronavirus pandemic. If confirmed, Ratcliffe will have held the highest intelligence positions in the U.S. Kennedy , 70, ran for president as a Democrat, then as an independent before he dropped out and then endorsed Trump . He's the son of Democratic icon Robert F. Kennedy, who was assassinated in 1968 during his own presidential campaign. Kennedy's nomination alarmed people who are concerned about his record of spreading unfounded fears about vaccines . For example, he has long advanced the debunked idea that vaccines cause autism. Rollins , 52, is president and CEO of the America First Policy Institute, a group helping to lay the groundwork for Trump's second administration. She is a Texas attorney who was Trump's domestic policy adviser and director of his office of American innovation during his first term. Rollins previously was an aide to former Texas Gov. Rick Perry , who also served in Trump's first term. Rollins also ran the Texas Public Policy Foundation. Duffy is a former House member from Wisconsin who was one of Trump's most visible defenders on cable news. Duffy served in the House for nearly nine years , sitting on the Financial Services Committee and chairing the subcommittee on insurance and housing. He left Congress in 2019 for a TV career and has been the host of “The Bottom Line” on Fox Business. Before entering politics, Duffy was a reality TV star on MTV, where he met his wife, “Fox and Friends Weekend” co-host Rachel Campos-Duffy. They have nine children. Collins is a former Republican congressman from Georgia who gained recognition for defending Trump during his first impeachment trial. Trump was impeached for urging Ukraine to investigate Joe Biden in 2019 during the Democratic presidential campaign, but was acquitted by the Senate. Collins also served in the armed forces himself. He is a chaplain in the United States Air Force Reserve Command. The North Dakota governor , 68, is a former Republican presidential primary contender who endorsed Trump after he dropped out of the running. Burgum then became a serious contender to be Trump’s vice presidential choice in part because of his executive experience and business savvy. He also has close ties to deep-pocketed energy industry CEOs. Trump said Burgum would chair a new National Energy Council and have a seat on the National Security Council, which would be a first for the Interior secretary. A campaign donor and CEO of Denver-based Liberty Energy, Wright is a vocal advocate of oil and gas development, including fracking — a key pillar of Trump’s quest to achieve U.S. “energy dominance” in the global market. He also has been one of the industry’s loudest voices against efforts to fight climate change. Wright said the climate movement around the world is “collapsing under its own weight.” The Energy Department is responsible for advancing energy, environmental and nuclear security of the United States. McMahon, a billionaire professional wrestling mogul , would make a return appearance in a second Trump administration. She led the Small Business Administration from 2017 to 2019 in Trump’s first term and twice ran unsuccessfully in Connecticut as a Republican candidate for the U.S. Senate. She served on the Connecticut Board of Education for a year starting in 2009 and has spent years on the board of trustees for Sacred Heart University. She has expressed support for charter schools and school choice. Zeldin does not appear to have any experience in environmental issues, but is a longtime supporter of the former president. The 44-year-old former U.S. House member from New York wrote on X , “We will restore US energy dominance, revitalize our auto industry to bring back American jobs, and make the US the global leader of AI" and "we will do so while protecting access to clean air and water.” Trump often attacked the Biden administration’s promotion of electric vehicles, and incorrectly referred to a tax credit for EV purchases as a government mandate. Trump also often said his administration would “drill, baby, drill,” referring to his support for expanded petroleum exploration. Turner is a former NFL player and White House aide. He ran the White House Opportunity and Revitalization Council during Trump’s first term in office. Trump, in a statement, credited Turner, the highest-ranking Black person he’s yet selected for his administration, with “helping to lead an Unprecedented Effort that Transformed our Country’s most distressed communities.” Greer is a partner at King & Spalding, a Washington law firm. If confirmed by the Senate, he would be responsible for negotiating directly with foreign governments on trade deals and disputes, as well as memberships in international trade bodies such as the World Trade Organization. He previously was chief of staff to Robert Lighthizer, who was the trade representative in Trump's first term. Wiles , 67, was a senior adviser to Trump’s 2024 presidential campaign and its de facto manager. She has a background in Florida politics , helping Ron DeSantis win his first race for Florida governor. Six years later, she was key to Trump’s defeat of him in the 2024 Republican primary. Wiles’ hire was Trump’s first major decision as president-elect and one that could be a defining test of his incoming administration considering her close relationship with him. Wiles is said to have earned Trump’s trust in part by guiding what was the most disciplined of Trump’s three presidential campaigns. Waltz is a three-term Republican congressman from east-central Florida. A former Army Green Beret , he served multiple tours in Afghanistan and worked in the Pentagon as a policy adviser when Donald Rumsfeld and Robert Gates were defense chiefs. He is considered hawkish on China, and called for a U.S. boycott of the 2022 Winter Olympics in Beijing due to its involvement in the origin of COVID-19 and its mistreatment of the minority Muslim Uighur population. Hassett, 62, is a major advocate of tax cuts who was chairman of the Council of Economic Advisers in the first Trump term. In the new role as chairman of the National Economic Council, Trump said Hassett will play an important role in helping American families recover from inflation as well as in renewing and improving tax cuts Trump enacted in 2017, many of which are set to expire after 2025. Homan, 62, has been tasked with Trump’s top priority of carrying out the largest deportation operation in the nation’s history. He led the U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement in Trump's first administration. Democrats have criticized Homan for defending Trump’s “zero tolerance” policy on border crossings in the first term, which led to the separation of thousands of parents and children seeking asylum at the border. Vought, 48, held the position during Trump’s first presidency. He the founded the Center for Renewing America, a think tank that describes its mission as “renew a consensus of America as a nation under God.” Vought also was closely involved with Project 2025 , a conservative blueprint for Trump’s second term that Trump tried to distance himself from during the campaign. Miller, an immigration hardliner , was a vocal spokesperson during the presidential campaign for Trump’s priority of mass deportations. The 39-year-old was a senior adviser during Trump’s first term. Miller has been a central figure in some of Trump’s policy decisions, notably his move to separate thousands of immigrant families. Trump argued throughout the campaign that the nation’s economic, national security and social priorities could be met by deporting people living illegally in the U.S. Scavino was an adviser in all three of the president-elect's campaigns and was described by the transition team as one of “Trump’s longest serving and most trusted aides." He will be deputy chief of staff and assistant to the president. Scavino previously ran Trump’s social media profile in the White House. Blair was political director for Trump’s 2024 campaign and for the Republican National Committee. He will be deputy chief of staff for legislative, political and public affairs and an assistant to the president. Blair was key to Trump’s economic messaging during his winning White House comeback campaign. Budowich is a veteran Trump campaign aide who launched and directed Make America Great Again, Inc., a super PAC that supported Trump’s 2024 campaign. He will be deputy chief of staff for communications and personnel and assistant to the president. Leavitt , 27, was Trump's campaign press secretary and currently a spokesperson for his transition. She would be the youngest White House press secretary in history. Leavitt worked in the White House press office during Trump's first term. In 2022, she ran for Congress in New Hampshire, winning a 10-way Republican primary before losing to Democratic Rep. Chris Pappas. McGinley was Cabinet secretary during Trump's first administration and was outside legal counsel for the Republican National Committee's election integrity effort during the 2024 campaign. The 67-year-old Witkoff is the president-elect's golf partner and they were golfing at Trump's club in West Palm Beach, Florida, on Sept. 15, when the former president was the target of a second attempted assassination. Trump also named Witkoff co-chair, with former Georgia Sen. Kelly Loeffler, of his inaugural committee. Kellogg , 80, is a highly decorated retired three-star general and one of the architects of a staunchly conservative policy book that lays out an “America First” national security agenda for Trump's second term. He has long been Trump’s top adviser on defense issues and served as national security adviser to Vice President Mike Pence . Kellogg also was chief of staff of the National Security Council under Trump and stepped in as an acting national security adviser for Trump after Michael Flynn resigned the post. Huckabee is a staunch defender of Israel and his intended nomination comes as Trump has promised to align U.S. foreign policy more closely with Israel's interests. Huckabee, who ran unsuccessfully for the Republican presidential nomination in 2008 and 2016, has been a popular figure among evangelical Christian conservatives, many of whom support Israel due to Old Testament writings that Jews are God’s chosen people and that Israel is their rightful homeland. Huckabee has rejected a Palestinian homeland in territory occupied by Israel. His daughter, Sarah Huckabee Sanders, served as White House press secretary in Trump's first term. Stefanik, 40, is a U.S. representative from New York and one of Trump's staunchest defenders dating to his first impeachment trial. She was elected chair of the House Republican Conference in 2021, the third-highest position in House leadership, after then-Rep. Liz Cheney was removed from the post after she publicly criticized Trump for falsely claiming he won the 2020 election. Stefanik’s questioning of university presidents over antisemitism on their campuses helped lead to two of those presidents resigning, further raising her national profile. A former acting attorney general during Trump's first administration and tight end on the University of Iowa football team, Whitaker , 55, has a background in law enforcement but not in foreign policy. A fierce Trump localist, Whitaker, is also a former U.S. attorney in Iowa and served as acting attorney general between November 2018 and February 2019 without Senate confirmation, until William Barr was confirmed for the role. That was when special counsel Robert Mueller’s investigation into Russian election interference was drawing to a close. Whitaker also faced questions about his past business dealings, including his ties to an invention-promotion company that was accused of misleading consumers. A Republican congressman from Michigan who served from 1993 to 2011, Hoekstra was ambassador to the Netherlands during Trump's first term. Oz , 64, is a former heart surgeon who hosted “The Dr. Oz Show,” a long-running daytime TV talk show. He ran unsuccessfully for the U.S. Senate as the Republican nominee in 2022 and is an outspoken supporter of Trump, who endorsed Oz’s bid for elected office. Makary is a Johns Hopkins surgeon and author who argued against pandemic lockdowns. He routinely appeared on Fox News during the COVID-19 pandemic and wrote opinion articles questioning masks for children. He cast doubt on vaccine mandates but supported vaccines generally. Makary also cast doubt on whether booster shots worked, which was against federal recommendations on the vaccine. Nesheiwat is a general practitioner who serves as medical director for CityMD, a network of urgent care centers in New York and New Jersey. She has been a contributor on Fox News. Weldon is a former Florida congressman who recently ran for a Florida state legislative seat and lost; Trump backed Weldon’s opponent. In Congress, Weldon weighed in on one of the nation’s most heated debates of the 1990s over quality of life and a right-to-die and whether Terri Schiavo, who was in a persistent vegetative after cardiac arrest, state should have been allowed to have her feeding tube removed. He sided with the parents who did not want it removed. Bhattacharya , 56, is a critic of pandemic lockdowns and vaccine mandates. As head of the NIH, the leading medical research agency in the United States, Trump said Bhattacharya would work with Kennedy Jr. to direct U.S. medical research and make important discoveries that will improve health and save lives. Bhattacharya is professor at Stanford University School of Medicine and was one of three authors of the Great Barrington Declaration, an October 2020 open letter maintaining that lockdowns during the COVID-19 pandemic were causing irreparable harm. Gaetz, 42, withdrew from consideration to become the top law enforcement officer of the United States amid fallout over a federal sex trafficking investigation that cast doubt on his ability to be confirmed by the Senate. In choosing Gaetz, Trump had passed over more established lawyers whose names had been floated as possible contenders for the job. Gaetz resigned from Congress after Trump announced him on Nov. 13. The House Ethics Committee has been investigating an allegation that he paid for sex with a 17-year-old. Gaetz has denied wrongdoing. Associated Press writers Colleen Long, Zeke Miller, Farnoush Amiri, Lolita C. Baldor, Jill Colvin, Matthew Daly, Edith M. Lederer, Adriana Gomez Licon, Lisa Mascaro, Chris Megerian, Michelle L. Price, Will Weissert and Darlene Superville contributed to this report.Minimum wage set to increase next week in Aruba and CuracaoThis is a category that has really changed in recent years. The early remasters back in the PlayStation 3 and PlayStation 4 days often offered simply higher resolution textures with maybe a few slight enhancements here and there. But in 2024, full-fledged remakes, are mostly dominating the category. Rather than the subtle enhancements of earlier times, remakes are typically complete recreations of a classic game that update the entire experience to make it a familiar yet new experience. This category is typically hard to find enough nominees for, but this year, it was one of the tougher ones to trim down to seven entries. Let’s take a look at our nominees for the Best Remaster/Remake of 2024: Dead Rising Deluxe Remaster Back in 2006, Dead Rising felt like one of those games that was ahead of its time. It had its constraints due to existing technology at the time, but it pushed that technology to the limits, allowing players to carve through hordes of zombies with an arsenal of makeshift weapons. Destructoid’s Master of Gaming Zoey Handley jumped into the improved Dead Rising Deluxe Remaster when it was released earlier this year and praised developer Capcom’s ability to address the issues that plagued the original version nearly two decades ago while adding a fresh new set of pain with its graphical upgrades. Epic Mickey: Rebrushed In 2010, gamers were shocked to realize that Mickey wielding a paintbrush could actually make for a pretty fun experience. Despite being a platformer, the ability to use Mickey’s magic brush to actually shape and mold the world added some unique puzzle variability to the genre. The only major downside to Epic Mickey is that it was exclusive to the Nintendo Wii. Nearly a decade and a half later, Epic Mickey: Rebrushed has been released with enhanced graphics, new abilities, costumes, and interactions for Mickey, some gameplay tweaks, and, best of all, on most modern consoles and PC. Final Fantasy 7 Rebirth The second part of the remake of the arguably most popular RPG of all time, Final Fantasy 7 , was even bolder than part 1. While Final Fantasy 7 Remake modernized the original while adding some extra content and flair, Final Fantasy 7 Rebirth completely overhauled the game, turning it into a massive, sprawling open world, allowing players to really explore the game world they came to love. Our very own Chris “The OG” Carter gave Final Fantasy 7 Rebirth a much deserving 9.5/10, heralding Square Enix’s ability to walk the line between seriousness and absurdity. Final Fantasy 7 Rebirth was my most anticipated game heading into the year, and it did not disappoint. The Last of Us Part 2 Remastered I will admit, that most of the titles on this list are seeing remasters or remakes after a decade or more since the original release, so it is a bit odd seeing The Last of Us 2 get remastered just four years post-release. But to be fair, in 2020 The Last of Us 2 received a staggering more than 320 Game of the Year awards and countless other accolades for its deep narrative and immersive gameplay. The Last of Us Part 2 Remastered touts mostly visual enhancements, including increased texture resolution, higher level-of-detail distances, improved shadow quality and animation sampling rates, and more. For those who play on the PlayStation 5, the survival action game also makes use of the DualSense controller’s haptic feedback and adaptive triggers, pushing the experience to the next level. Persona 3 Reload Once considered somewhat of a cult classic, the popularity of the Persona series has simply exploded in recent years with the release of Persona 5 . Heralded by some fans as the best in the series, Persona 3 got the remaster treatment earlier this year with updated graphics, additions to the soundtrack, some enhancements to the battle system, and more. Persona 3 Reload would also go on to add the game’s popular Episode Aegis: The Answer DLC which wraps up the story of Persona 3 and adds a plethora of end-game content for fans to enjoy for many hours. Silent Hill 2 Another entry on this list that got a pretty extensive remake treatment, is Silent Hill 2 . The incredibly unique and bizarre adventure through an eerie small town shrouded in a deep fog that spawns disturbing monstrosities has been modernized in every way. In fact, the only thing that has really gone unchanged in the updated Silent Hill 2 appears to be the story, as the third-person psychological horror game has received completely remade visuals and improved gameplay enhancements. Zoey Handley felt it ran a bit long and brought its own technical problems , and considered it a worthwhile new perspective on the original game. Sonic x Shadow Generations Depending on when you were born and started gaming probably dictates whether you picture Sonic as a 2D or 3D game. With Sonic x Shadow Generations , you get the best of both worlds. Technically a remaster of the 2011 Sonic Generations , Sonic x Shadow Generations also features a new game called Shadow Generations that features Shadow the Hedgehog as a playable character. It’s a good year for platformers, and Sonic X Shadow Generations only amplifies that feeling. With improved visuals, new stages, and a second campaign featuring Shadow, Sonic x Shadow Generations creatively walks the line between remaster and remak,e offering the best of both worlds.

Health Alert as Flu Cases Surge: Are Your Masks Expired? As temperatures drop and the air becomes more frigid, a troubling health concern is emerging: influenza cases are spiking across the country. The flu virus is spreading rapidly, raising alarms for citizens and health officials alike. Amid this surge, many people are turning to masks as a defense mechanism to protect themselves and others. However, some individuals might still be using masks they purchased during the onset of the COVID-19 pandemic in 2020. It is important to note that these masks could have a shelf life that may affect their efficacy. Certain mask manufacturers specify expiration dates, which means that older masks might not provide the same level of protection they once did. Experts recommend checking whether your masks are still within their effective usage period. As these items age, material degradation could compromise their ability to block harmful pathogens. In light of the rising flu cases, ensuring your protective gear is up-to-date becomes a critical step in personal and public health safety. In conclusion, to stay healthy during this flu season, it’s not just about wearing a mask, but wearing the right mask. Always verify the condition and expiration date of your masks to ensure they provide adequate protection against airborne illnesses. Stay informed and stay safe in these challenging times. Unmasking the Hidden Facts: Flu Season Preparedness and Mask Efficacy In light of the recent surge in influenza cases, it’s paramount for individuals to reassess the effectiveness of their protective measures, primarily focusing on the masks they’re using. While many have relied on masks initially acquired during the early stages of the COVID-19 pandemic, questions arise regarding the current efficacy of these masks. Let’s delve into the vital aspects of mask usage, features, compatibility, and innovations to ensure optimum protection during this challenging season. Many of the masks purchased in 2020 were designed for a specific period of use, after which their protective capabilities may diminish due to material degradation. The porous materials used in masks, like the fibers in surgical masks or N95 respirators, can deteriorate over time, reducing their ability to filter pathogens. It’s therefore crucial to review the expiration dates recommended by manufacturers. Failing to do so could result in using compromised protective gear, negating the very purpose of wearing a mask. With advances in technology, new mask types have emerged that offer enhanced protection and comfort. Innovations such as self-sterilizing masks, masks with adjustable filters, and those incorporating antiviral coatings provide added layers of defense. These features can significantly increase the longevity and efficiency of masks, making them an attractive option for those seeking to upgrade outdated gear. Understanding the various types of masks available is key to choosing the right one: – Surgical Masks : Lightweight and disposable, they offer basic protection but have a limited lifespan. Pros include comfort and cost-effectiveness for short-term use. However, they provide less protection compared to respirators. – N95 Respirators : Known for their high filtration efficiency, these masks are more durable and effective against airborne pathogens. The downside is that they can be uncomfortable for long periods and may not be suitable for individuals with certain medical conditions. – Cloth Masks with Filters : These masks offer customizable protection levels and are reusable. While eco-friendly and often stylish, their effectiveness depends heavily on the materials and construction quality. While protecting individual health, ecological impact should also be taken into account. Opting for reusable masks with replaceable filters not only provides prolonged use but also minimizes environmental waste. Before purchase, consider the mask’s compatibility with existing accessories like eyeglasses to reduce fogging and discomfort. 1. Inspect the Materials : Look for any signs of wear or deterioration on the mask. This includes fraying, tears, and loss of elasticity in straps. 2. Verify Expiration : Check the packaging or mask for expiration details. If unsure, consult the manufacturer’s website or customer service. 3. Fit and Seal Test : Ensure that the mask fits snugly against the face without gaps. A proper seal enhances protection against airborne particles. 4. Additional Resources : For more detailed guidance on selecting and caring for masks, visit the World Health Organization . Maintaining up-to-date, effective protective gear isn’t merely a personal health matter but a public responsibility. As science and technology continue to evolve, the future holds promise for even more efficient and accessible protective solutions. Staying informed on these developments helps ensure individuals are adequately equipped to face seasonal health challenges, such as flu outbreaks. Stay vigilant, prioritize safety, and adapt to new innovations in health protection technology.Louisville scores 52 second-half points to race past No. 14 Indiana 89-61 in the Battle 4 Atlantis

SAN FRANCISCO – The California Public Utilities Commission marked a historic achievement last week by surpassing $1 billion in grants dedicated to expanding broadband networks throughout California. This monumental funding will empower communities across the state, from rural areas to urban centers, by expanding access to high-speed internet—a crucial resource for education, healthcare, and economic development. This milestone was reached with the approval of $225 million in the 10th round of grants for last mile broadband projects as part of the $2 billion Last Mile Federal Funding Account grant program, which expands broadband internet access for underserved and unserved communities in California. This continues a rolling process of awards and recommendations, highlighting the state’s commitment to bridging the digital divide through Broadband For All. In Stanislaus County, $15.1 million was awarded on Thursday, Dec. 19. It is estimated to benefit about 10,070 people. The total project cost is expected to be just shy of $20.5 million, so the grant awarded will cover 74 percent of the funding. The grantee listed was AT&T. “As the fifth largest economy on the planet, we can’t afford to leave anyone behind from accessing the kinds of economic opportunities the internet provides us in the 21st Century. With more than $1 billion invested to help communities connect to broadband, California is working to connect more Californians than ever before to reliable, high-speed internet,” Gov. Gavin Newsom said in the news release. “As we close out this year, these critical investments in broadband infrastructure and digital literacy are a testament to our commitment to closing the digital divide and ensuring that all Californians, regardless of income or location, have access to the tools they need to thrive in the digital age,” said CPUC President Alice Reynolds. “The CPUC is proud to support these projects that will bring reliable internet access and empower communities across the state.” “I am pleased to support these grants for broadband infrastructure under the Public Housing and Federal Funding Account programs,” said Commissioner Darcie L. Houck. “Together, these grants will provide over $225 million to build-out broadband internet service to low-income households in rural and urban parts of our State. These grants fund projects that vary from fiber to wireless network infrastructure. In order to maximize our investments we have to use all the innovative technologies at our disposal. These awards will help address both the availability and affordability challenges to accessing broadband by supporting infrastructure grants that will bring essential broadband to some of California’s most vulnerable customers, furthering our goal to end the digital divide.” The Last Mile Federal Funding Account by the Numbers to Date $1 billion in grants awarded 47 counties awarded grants 97 projects to date 2 million Californians benefiting from these investments 8 Tribal broadband grants issued 48 public entity and partnership broadband grants issued 61 grants serving majority disadvantaged and low-income communities Continuing to invest where it matters most Many Last Mile Federal Funding Account grant awardees are creating new networks, connecting the next generation to education, improving access to healthcare, and empowering rural and urban communities for economic development and emergency connectivity. Combined, these proposed projects will serve predominantly disadvantaged and low-income communities across the state. * Additional awards coming for counties in gray Last Mile Federal Funding Account grants by the numbers: $225 million for 14 counties Yolo, Yuba Mariposa, Stanislaus, and Tuolumne Kern and Merced Butte and Glenn Colusa, San Joaquin, and Shasta Counties San Diego and Tehama Counties 163,000 Californians benefiting For a specific county information, visit the CPUC’s Federal Funding Account Recommendations and Awards webpage Awarding grants throughout California Last week’s approval is a milestone in the process of awarding last mile broadband grants to projects in every region in the state to established internet service providers, small providers, local governments, tribes, and special districts. As part of this process, the CPUC issues Draft Resolutions with award recommendations, each open for public comment. The recommendations are then considered and must be approved by vote at a public CPUC Voting Meeting . Awards will continue in January 2025. Future application windows will be announced as funds are appropriated. Fueling economic growth statewide Established under Senate Bill 156 (2021), the CPUC’s Last Mile Federal Funding Account is fueling economic growth across rural, tribal, and urban communities statewide. Since the initial round of applications closed in September 2023, the CPUC has received and reviewed 484 grant applications from every county in the state, totaling more than $4.6 billion in requests. This overwhelming response highlights the urgent need for and the opportunity to expand internet access across California. In addition to the Last Mile Federal Funding Account, the CPUC is investing in a suite of programs in the state’s efforts in connecting millions of Californians with reliable, affordable high-speed internet, including the California Broadband Equity, Access, and Deployment (BEAD) Program and the California Advanced Services Fund (CASF) . More Information • Full list of CPUC Federal Funding Account Recommendations and Awards • CPUC Broadband Federal Funding Account Awards Map California Advanced Services Fund Broadband Public Housing and Adoption Account In addition, the CPUC approved an additional $7.3 million in grants to improve broadband access, affordability and digital literacy across the state. Also approved today, the California Advanced Services Fund (CASF) Broadband Public Housing Account funded $965,828 in grants for wireline and wireless infrastructure and provide free broadband service to 493 households in California, benefiting grantees such as the Housing Authority of the City of Fresno, Self-Help Enterprises, and Affordable Housing CDC, Inc. Additionally, the CPUC also approved $1.4 million for 30 projects across seven grantees to provide free broadband service to 2,546 households over the next five years. These initiatives will be spread throughout key areas, including San Francisco, Fresno, Goleta, Santa Barbara, and Los Banos. This brings the total awarded from the Public Housing Account in 2024 to $3.4 million, providing free broadband access to 3,830 households. In a separate action, the CPUC awarded $4.9 million in CASF Broadband Adoption Account funding to 48 projects that will deliver digital literacy training to 6,927 participants and broadband access to 12,051 individuals in low-income and disadvantaged communities, furthering the state’s commitment to bridging the digital divide. In 2024, the Adoption Account awarded $11.1 million, providing digital literacy training to up to 20,767 participants, broadband access to 23,241 individuals and broadband subscriptions to up to 490 individuals.Some of the child sexual abuse charges have been dropped against a former Palo Verde High School teacher and coach, who surrendered his passport in court Monday. Michael “Luke” Atwell, 72, has been accused of sexually assaulting multiple victims when they were children: a boy when he was between 11 and 14 years old; a woman who is now an adult in her 30s; that woman’s daughter; a former student, who is also now in her 30s; and that woman’s son. Atwell pleaded not guilty to initial charges last week. During Monday’s hearing, Atwell, who remains in jail custody on $250,000 bail, mostly kept his eyes downcast and his attorney, Jess Marchese, handed his passport over to a court employee. Chief Deputy District Attorney Peter Thunell previously said that prosecutors were concerned Atwell might flee, given his age and experience with foreign travel. Marchese said charges tied to the first woman who is now in her 30s were dropped, possibly because they were past the statute of limitations. The charges involving her daughter remain active. Online court records indicate prosecutors denied five counts of lewdness with a child and one count of sexual assault against a child. The woman had told police that she met Atwell in the early 2000s through his son when he was teaching at Becker Middle School. She alleged that Atwell began abusing her when she was 13. Thunell said the charges were denied because of a statute of limitations issue rather than the merits of the victim’s allegations. Atwell previously taught history, criminal justice and social studies and coached boys cross country and girls softball at Palo Verde. State records indicate he also taught at Becker Middle School between 1999 and 2003. His pension for the fiscal year of 2024 was $30,899, according to the Public Employees’ Retirement System of Nevada. Atwell was arrested at Palo Verde on Nov. 19. In a message to families that did not name Atwell, or disclose that he was accused of sexual assault, Principal Lisa Schumacher said a volunteer coach was arrested on suspicion of “inappropriate contact with a minor” and been terminated.Get ready for a college football bowl season like you’ve never seen. It’s the first year of the expanded 12-team College Football Playoff to determine the national champion, with first-round games kicking off Friday, December 20. In the new format, the top four conference champions (Oregon, Georgia, Arizona State and Boise State) receive a first-round bye and automatic entry into the quarterfinals. The remaining eight teams play in the four-game first round, with matchups held at the home stadiums of the higher-ranked participants. The “New Year’s Six” bowls serve as the quarterfinals and semifinals, with the national championship decided Monday, January 20, at Mercedes-Benz Stadium in Atlanta. Of course, there’s still plenty of college football postseason action through early January that doesn’t involve the national championship chase. The parade of bowl games begins Saturday, December 14, with the Cricket Celebration Bowl in Atlanta. A great tradition continues in Landover, Maryland, as the Navy Midshipmen take on the Army Black Knights Saturday on CBS at 3/2c. Later on Saturday, the Heisman Trophy is presented to the season’s most outstanding player in a ceremony on ESPN at 8/7c. Finalists are Oregon QB Dillon Gabriel, Colorado WR/CB Travis Hunter, Boise State RB Ashton Jeanty (pictured above) and Miami QB Cam Ward. Here’s your complete lineup of College Football Playoff games and other bowl matchups: All times Eastern/Central. Friday, December 20 No. 10 Indiana at No. 7 Notre Dame, ABC/ESPN, 8/7c Saturday, December 21 No. 11 SMU at No. 6 Penn State, noon/11a c, TNT/Max No. 12 Clemson at No. 5 Texas, 4/3c, TNT/Max No. 9 Tennessee at No. 8 Ohio State, 8/7c, ABC/ESPN Tuesday, December 31 Vrbo Fiesta Bowl (Glendale, Arizona): TBA vs. No. 3 Boise State, (ESPN) Wednesday, Jan. 1 Chick-fil-A Peach Bowl (Atlanta): TBA vs. No. 4 Arizona State, 1/noon c, ESPN Rose Bowl (Pasadena, California): TBA vs. No. 1 Oregon, 5/4c, ESPN Allstate Sugar Bowl (New Orleans): TBA vs. No. 2 Georgia, 8:45/7:45c, ESPN Thursday, January 9 Capital One Orange Bowl (Miami, Florida): TBA vs. TBA, 7:30/6:30c, ESPN Friday, January 10 Goodyear Cotton Bowl Classic (Arlington, Texas): TBA vs. TBA, 7:30/6:30c, ESPN Monday, January 20 National Championship (Atlanta): TBA vs. TBA, 7:30/6:30c, ESPN Saturday, December 14 Cricket Celebration Bowl (Atlanta): Jackson State vs. South Carolina State, noon/11a c, ABC IS4S Salute to Veterans Bowl (Montgomery, Alabama): South Alabama vs. Western Michigan, 9/8c, ESPN Tuesday, December 17 Scooter’s Coffee Frisco Bowl (Frisco, Texas): Memphis vs. West Virginia, 9/8c, ESPN Wednesday, December 18 Boca Raton Bowl (Boca Raton, Florida): Western Kentucky vs. James Madison, 5:30/4:30c, ESPN Art of Sport LA Bowl (Inglewood, California): Cal vs. UNLV, 9/8c, ESPN Thursday, December 19 R+L Carriers New Orleans Bowl (New Orleans): Georgia Southern vs. Sam Houston, 7/6c, ESPN2 Friday, December 20 StaffDNA Cure Bowl (Orlando, Florida): Ohio vs. Jacksonville State, noon/11a c, ESPN Union Home Mortgage Gasparilla Bowl (Tampa, Florida): 3:30/2:30c, ESPN Monday, December 23 Myrtle Beach Bowl (Conway, South Carolina): Coastal Carolina vs. UTSA, 11a/10a c, ESPN Famous Idaho Potato Bowl (Boise, Idaho): Northern Illinois vs. Fresno State, 2:30/1:30c, ESPN Tuesday, December 24 Hawai’i Bowl (Honolulu): South Florida vs. San José State, 8/7c, ESPN Thursday, December 26 GameAbove Sports Bowl (Detroit): Pittsburgh vs. Toledo, 2/1xc, ESPN Rate Bowl (Phoenix): Rutgers vs. Kansas State, 5:30/4:30c, ESPN 68 Ventures Bowl (Mobile, Alabama): Arkansas State vs. Bowling Green, 9/8c, ESPN Friday, December 27 Lockheed Martin Armed Forces Bowl (Fort Worth, Texas): Oklahoma vs. Navy, noon/11a c, ESPN Birmingham Bowl (Birmingham, Alabama): Georgia Tech vs. Vanderbilt, 3:30/2:30c, ESPN AutoZone Liberty Bowl (Memphis, Tennessee): Texas Tech vs. Arkansas, 7/6c, ESPN DirecTV Holiday Bowl (San Diego): Syracuse vs. Washington State, 8/7c, Fox SRS Distribution Las Vegas Bowl (Las Vegas): Texas A&M vs. USC, 10:30/9:30c, ESPN Saturday, December 28 Wasabi Fenway Bowl (Boston): UConn vs. North Carolina, 11a/10a c, ESPN Bad Boy Mowers Pinstripe Bowl (Bronx, New York): Boston College vs. Nebraska, Noon/11a c, ABC Isleta New Mexico Bowl (Albuquerque, New Mexico): Louisiana vs. TCU, 2:15/1:15c, ESPN Pop-Tarts Bowl (Orlando, Florida): Iowa State vs. Miami, 3:30/2:30c, ABC Snoop Dogg Arizona Bowl (Tucson, Arizona): Miami (Ohio) vs. Colorado State, 4:30/3:30c, The CW Go Bowling Military Bowl (Annapolis, Maryland): East Carolina vs. NC State, 5:45/4:45c, ESPN Valero Alamo Bowl (San Antonio): BYU vs. Colorado, 7:30/6:30c, ABC Radiance Technologies Independence Bowl (Shreveport, Louisiana): Marshall vs. Army, 9:15/8:15c, ESPN Monday, December 30 TransPerfect Music City Bowl (Nashville, Tennessee): Iowa vs. Missouri, 2:30/1:30c, ESPN Tuesday, December 31 ReliaQuest Bowl (Tampa, Florida): Alabama vs. Michigan, noon/11a c, ESPN Tony the Tiger Sun Bowl (El Paso, Texas): Louisville vs. Washington, 2/1c, CBS Cheez-It Citrus Bowl (Orlando, Florida): South Carolina vs. Illinois, 3/2c, ABC Kinder’s Texas Bowl (Houston): Baylor vs. LSU, 3:30/2:30c, ESPN Thursday, January 2 TaxSlayer Gator Bowl (Jacksonville, Florida): Duke vs. Ole Miss, 7:30/6:30c, ESPN Friday, January 3 SERVPRO First Responder Bowl (Dallas): North Texas vs. Texas State, 4/3c, ESPN Duke’s Mayo Bowl (Charlotte, North Carolina): Minnesota vs. Virginia Tech, 7:30/6:30c, ESPN Saturday, January 4 Bahamas Bowl (Nassau, Bahamas): Buffalo vs. Liberty, 11a/10a c, ESPN2 More Headlines:

Thousands of Syrians gathered in Damascus’ main square and a historic mosque for the first Muslim Friday prayers since former President Bashar Assad was overthrown , a major symbolic moment for the country’s dramatic change of power. The rebels are now working to establish security and start a political transition after seizing the capital on Sunday. U.S. Secretary of State Antony Blinken made an unannounced visit to Iraq on Friday, pressing ahead with efforts to unify Middle East nations in support of a peaceful political transition in Syria. It’s part of Blinken’s 12th trip to the Mideast since the Israel-Hamas war erupted last year in Gaza but his first after Assad was ousted. The U.S. is also making a renewed push for an ceasefire in Gaza, where the war has plunged more than 2 million Palestinians into a severe humanitarian crisis. Israel’s war against Hamas has killed over 44,800 Palestinians in Gaza, more than half of them women and children, according to the Gaza Health Ministry, which does not say how many were combatants. The Israeli military says it has killed over 17,000 militants, without providing evidence. The October 2023 Hamas attack that sparked the war killed some 1,200 people in Israel, mostly civilians, and around 250 others were taken hostage. Some 100 hostages are still inside Gaza, at least a third of whom are believed to be dead. Here's the latest: BEIRUT — Israeli warplanes launched airstrikes on Friday against sites in several cities in Syria, an opposition war monitor reported. Associated Press journalists heard loud explosions throughout the Syrian capital Damascus. There were no immediate reports of casualties. The strikes hit the summit of Mount Qasioun in Damascus, Khalkhala Airport in the countryside of Sweida and the Defense and Research Laboratories in Masyaf, located in the western countryside of Hama, according to the Syrian Observatory for Human Rights Earlier on Friday, Israeli strikes targeted six military sites in the countryside of Damascus and Sweida, the observatory said. Israel has conducted hundreds of airstrikes since the toppling of the Syrian regime, saying it seeks to neutralize potential threats following the ouster of Bashar Assad. The strikes have targeted weapons production sites, anti-aircraft batteries and airfields. Israel has also moved troops to occupy a buffer zone in the Golan Heights on its border with Syria. DAMASCUS, Syria — Russian forces and military vehicles were seen withdrawing from southern Syria on Friday toward their primary base in in the coastal city of Latakia. The Russian troop movement comes amid questions about whether Moscow will still be able to project power in the Middle East after the fall of Syrian President Bashar Assad. His rule was supported by Russia and he received asylum in Russia after being toppled Sunday. There are also questions about what a Russian pullback in Syria could mean for the war in Ukraine. Significant Russian military convoys were seen on the Damascus-Homs highway near Shinshar village heading north. The military vehicles, bearing Russian flags, included tanks and armored personnel carriers. The military equipment had been previously stationed in southern regions such as Daraa and Damascus. On Thursday, the British-based Syrian Observatory for Human Rights reported that Russian forces were leaving bases in Ain Issa and Tel Al-Samn in the Al-Raqqah countryside. Satellite images released by Maxar Technologies on Friday show what appear to be cargo planes at a Russian military airfield in Syria with their nose cones opened to receive heavy equipment, along with helicopters being dismantled and prepared for transport. Earlier this week, all Russian naval ships departed the Syrian port of Tartus, according to a U.S. official. ANKARA, Turkey — Turkey's embassy in the Syrian capital of Damascus will reopen on Saturday for the first time since 2012, Foreign Minister Hakan Fidan said Friday. In an interview with Turkey’s NTV television Fidan said a newly appointed interim charge d’affaires had left for Damascus on Friday together with his delegation. “It will be operational as of tomorrow,” he said. The embassy in Damascus had suspended operations in 2012 due to the escalating security conditions during the Syrian civil war. All embassy staff and their families were recalled to Turkey. The Syrian insurgents who overthrew Syrian President Bashar Assad on Sunday did so with vital help from Turkey. WASHINGTON — The U.S. military has transported out of Syria an American who disappeared seven months ago into former President Bashar Assad’s notorious prison system and was among the thousands released this week by rebels, a U.S. official said Friday. Travis Timmerman was flown out of Syria on a U.S. military helicopter, according to a U.S. official who spoke on condition of anonymity to discuss an ongoing operation. Timmerman, 29, told The Associated Press he had gone to Syria on a Christian pilgrimage and was not ill-treated while in Palestine Branch, a notorious detention facility operated by Syrian intelligence. He said he was freed by “the liberators who came into the prison and knocked the door down (of his cell) with a hammer.” Timmerman said he was released Monday morning alongside a young Syrian man and 70 female prisoners, some of whom had their children with them. He had been held separately from Syrian and other Arab prisoners and said he didn’t know of any other Americans held in the facility. — By Lolita C. Baldor THE HAGUE, Netherlands — A Dutch court on Friday rejected a bid from human rights groups to block weapons exports to Israel and trading with the occupied territories, after finding there were sufficient checks already in place to comply with international law. The ten organizations told The Hague District Court last month that they thought the Netherlands was in violation of the 1948 Genocide Convention, drawn up following World War II, by continuing to sell weapons to Israel more than a year into the conflict in Gaza. “The government uses my own tax money, that I pay, to kill my own family. I’ve lost 18 members of my own family,” Ahmed Abofoul, a legal adviser for the pro-Palestinian organization Al-Haq, one of the groups involved in the lawsuit, told the court during a hearing in November . The court ruling said that “it is not up to the interim relief judge to order the state to reconsider government policy. That is primarily a political responsibility.” Lawyers for the government argued it wasn’t up to a judge to decide foreign policy for the Netherlands. The activist groups pointed to several emergency orders from another court, the International Court of Justice, as confirming the obligation to stop weapons sales. In January, the top U.N. court said it was plausible Palestinians were being deprived of some rights protected under the Genocide Convention. The coalition said it will review the court’s ruling and is considering an appeal. CAIRO — Israeli attacks in and around a hospital in northern Gaza wounded three medical staff overnight into Friday and caused damage to the isolated medical facility, according to its director. Dr. Hossam Abu Safiya said Israeli quadcopter drones carrying explosives deliberately targeted the emergency and reception area of Kamal Adwan Hospital, where one doctor was wounded for a third time. Abu Safiya said “relentless” drone and artillery strikes throughout the night exploded “alarmingly close” to the hospital, heavily damaging nearby buildings and destroying most of the water tanks on the hospital’s roof and blowing out doors and windows. Kamal Adwan Hospital in the town of Beit Lahiya has been hit multiple times over the past two months since Israel launched a fierce military operation against Hamas in northern Gaza. The Israeli military did not immediately respond to a request for comment on the strikes. “We demand international protection for the hospital and its staff,” Abu Safiya said in a statement released via the U.K.-based aid group Medical Aid for Palestinians, “as well as the entry of delegations with surgical expertise, medical supplies, and essential medications to ensure we can adequately serve the people we are treating.” Abu Safiya said there were 72 wounded patients at the hospital, one of the few medical facilities left in northern Gaza. He said he expected Israeli forces would allow a World Health Organization aid convoy to bring supplies to the hospital on Friday or Saturday, as well as a team of doctors from Indonesia. Israel has allowed almost no humanitarian or medical aid to enter the three besieged communities in northern Gaza — Beit Lahiya, Beit Hanoun and the urban Jabaliya refugee camp — and ordered tens of thousands to flee to nearby Gaza City. Israeli officials have said the three communities are mostly deserted, but the United Nations humanitarian office said Tuesday it believes around 65,000 to 75,000 people are still there, with little access to food, water, electricity or health care. Experts have warned that the north may be experiencing famine . BAGHDAD — U.S. Secretary of State Antony Blinken made an unannounced stop in Iraq on Friday on his latest visit to the Middle East aimed at stabilizing the situation in Syria to prevent further regional turmoil. Blinken met in Baghdad with Iraqi Prime Minister Mohammed al-Sudani as part of the hastily arranged trip, his 12th to the region since the Israel-Hamas war erupted last year but his first since the weekend ouster of Syrian strongman Bashar Assad. Blinken has already been to Jordan and Turkey on his current tour and will return to the Jordanian city of Aqaba for meetings on Saturday with Arab foreign ministers, Turkey’s foreign minister and the United Nations special envoy for Syria, the U.N. said. Blinken will try to unify support for an inclusive post-Assad transition that does not allow the Islamic State group to take advantage of the political vacuum in Syria and secures suspected chemical weapons stocks. In Baghdad, Blinken underscored “U.S. commitment to the U.S.-Iraq strategic partnership and to Iraq’s security, stability, and sovereignty,” the State Department said. “He will also discuss regional security opportunities and challenges, as well as enduring U.S. support for engagement with all communities in Syria to establish an inclusive transition,” it said in a statement. His trip comes as the Biden administration winds down with just over a month left before President-elect Donald Trump takes office. Trump has been highly critical of Biden’s approach to the Middle East and skeptical of the U.S. military presence in both Iraq and Syria. The U.S. and Iraq agreed in September to wrap up U.S.-led military operations against the Islamic State group in Iraq next year, although Assad’s ouster and the potential for the group taking advantage of a political vacuum in Syria could complicate the timing of the withdrawal, according to American officials. DAMASCUS — The kingdom of Bahrain sent a message Friday to Ahmad al-Sharaa, formerly known as Abu Mohammed al-Golani, the leader of the insurgency that toppled Syrian President Bashar al-Assad. It said Bahrain is “fully prepared to consult with you continuously and to provide support in regional and international organizations to achieve what is in the interest of the brotherly Syrian people.” It added, “We look forward to Syria regaining its authentic role in the Arab League.” Bahrain is the current head of the Arab summit. Syria was readmitted to the Arab League last year after 12 years of ostracization. It is still unclear how the international community will deal officially with the new interim government in Syria. JERUSALEM - Israel’s defense minister told troops to prepare to remain through the winter months on the peak of Mount Hermon, Syria’s highest point, located in a swath of southern Syria that Israeli troops moved into after the fall of Damascus to insurgents. The comments by Defense Minister Israel Katz signaled that the military will extend its occupation of the zone along the border, which Israel says it seized to create a buffer zone. In a statement Friday, Katz said that holding the peak was of major importance for Israel’s security and that it would be necessary to build facilities there to sustain troops through the winter. The summit of Mount Hermon, the highest peak on the eastern Mediterranean coast at 2,814 meters (9,232 feet), gives a commanding view over the plains of southern Syria. It also positions Israeli troops about 40 kilometers (25 miles) from the center of Damascus. The mount is divided between the Israeli-occupied Golan Heights, Lebanon and Syria. Only the United States recognizes Israel’s control of the Golan Heights. Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu said Thursday that Israeli troops would remain in the zone until another force across the border in Syria could guarantee security. Israeli troops moved into the zone -– set as a demilitarized area inside Syrian territory under truce deals that ended the 1973 Mideast war -- after the regime of Bashar al-Assad fell last weekend. ANKARA, Turkey -- U.S. Secretary of State Antony Blinken said Friday there was “broad agreement” between Turkey and the United States on what they would like to see in Syria following the ouster of President Bashar Assad. “There’s broad agreement on what we would like to see going forward, starting with the interim government in Syria, one that is inclusive and non-sectarian and one that protects the rights of minorities and women” and does not “pose any kind of threat to any of Syria’s neighbors,” Blinken said in joint statements with Turkish Foreign Minister Hakan Fidan. The insurgent groups that toppled Assad in Syria have not made clear their policy or stance on Israel, whose military in recent days has bombed sites all over the country, saying it is trying to prevent weapons from falling into extremist hands. Blinken also said it was crucial to keep the Islamic State group under control. “We also discussed the imperative of continuing the efforts to keep ISIS down. Our countries worked very hard and gave a lot over many years to ensure the elimination of the territorial caliphate of ISIS to ensure that that threat doesn’t rear its head again,” Blinken said. The Turkish foreign minister said the two discussed ways of establishing prosperity in Syria and ending terrorism in the country. “Our priority is establishing stability in Syria as soon as possible, preventing terrorism from gaining ground, and ensuring that IS and the PKK aren’t dominant,” Fidan said, in a reference to the banned Kurdistan Workers Party. Blinken said: “We’re very focused on Syria, very focused on the opportunity that now is before us and before the Syrian people to move from out from under the shackles of Bashar al-Assad to a different and better future for the Syrian people, one that the Syrian people decide for themselves.” Blinken and Fidan said they had also discussed a ceasefire for Gaza. “We’ve seen in the last couple of weeks more encouraging signs that (a ceasefire) is possible,” Blinken said. Blinken, who is making his 12th trip to the Mideast since the Israel-Hamas war erupted last year but first since the weekend ouster of Assad, met with Turkish President Recep Tayyip Erdogan late Thursday. The outgoing Biden administration is particularly concerned that a power vacuum in Syria could exacerbate already heightened tensions in the region, which is already wracked by multiple conflicts, and create conditions for the Islamic State group to regain territory and influence. Later Friday, Blinken is to return to Jordan for meetings on Saturday with Arab foreign ministers and senior officials from the European Union, the Arab League and the United Nations. ANKARA, Turkey -- Turkey has appointed a temporary charge d’affaires to reopen its embassy in Syria, Turkey’s state-run news agency reported. The Turkish Embassy in Damascus had suspended operations in 2012 due to the escalating security problems during the Syrian civil war and embassy staff and their families were recalled to Turkey. The Anadolu Agency said late Thursday that Turkey appointed Burhan Koroglu, its ambassador in Mauritania, to the post. UNITED NATIONS- – Two U.N. aid convoys were violently attacked in Gaza, making it virtually impossible for humanitarian agencies to operate without putting staff and civilians at risk, the U.N. food agency says. On Wednesday, a 70-truck convoy from Kerem Shalom was waiting for personnel to safeguard the food and other aid destined for central Gaza when there were reported attacks by Israeli forces in the nearby humanitarian zone, the U.N. World Food Program said Thursday. More than 50 people are now estimated to have died in the attacks, including civilians and local security personnel who had been expected to ensure the convoy’s safety, WFP said. The Rome-based agency said the convoy was forced to proceed from Kerem Shalom to central Gaza without any security arrangements, using the Philadelphi corridor, an Israeli-controlled route that had been recently approved and successfully utilized twice. On the way, WFP said, conflict and insecurity led to a loss of communication with the convoy for more than 12 hours. ”Eventually, the trucks were found but all food and aid supplies were looted,” the U.N. agency said. In a second incident, Israeli soldiers approached a WFP convoy moving out of the Kissufim crossing into central Gaza, fired warning shots, conducted extensive security checks, and temporarily detained drivers and staff, the agency said. “As the trucks were delayed, four out of the five trucks were lost to violent armed looting,” WFP said. UNITED NATIONS – The United Nations chief has a message for Israel: Stop the attacks on Syria. Secretary-General António Guterres is particularly concerned about several hundred Israeli airstrikes on several Syrian locations and stresses “the urgent need to de-escalate violence on all fronts throughout the country," U.N. spokesman Stephane Dujarric told reporters Thursday. The Israeli military said Tuesday it carried out more than 350 strikes in Syria over the previous 48 hours, hitting “most of the strategic weapons stockpiles” in the country to stop them from falling into the hands of extremists. Israel also acknowledged pushing into a buffer zone inside Syria following last week’s overthrow of President Bashar Assad. The buffer zone was established after Israel seized the Golan Heights from Syria in the 1973 war. Dujarric said Guterres condemns all actions violating the 1974 ceasefire agreement between the two countries that remain in force. And the U.N. chief calls on the parties to uphold the agreement and end “all unauthorized presence in the area of separation” and refrain from any action undermining the ceasefire and stability in the Golan Heights, the spokesman said.Manmohan Singh Death: Former Prime Minister of India, Manmohan Singh, passed away on Thursday evening at Delhi’s All India Institute of Medical Sciences (AIIMS). He died hours after he was admitted to the emergency department of the hospital. According to multiple media reports, the veteran congressman’s health condition was reported to be critical. The senior Congress leader’s death has left a profound impact on the political landscape, with leaders, celebrities and citizens alike expressing their deep sorrow at the loss of one of India’s most respected statesmen. Taking to his X handle, Robert Vadra, husband of Congress MP Priyanka Gandhi, expressed his sorrow. Vadra in his now deleted post wrote, “I am deeply saddened to learn of the passing of former Prime Minister Manmohan Singh ji. My deepest condolences for his family and loved ones. Thank you for your service to our Nation. You will always be remembered for your Economic revolution and progressive changes, you brought to the country.” PM Narendra Modi extending his condolences wrote, "India mourns the loss of one of its most distinguished leaders, Dr Manmohan Singh Ji. Rising from humble origins, he rose to become a respected economist. He served in various government positions as well, including as Finance Minister, leaving a strong imprint on our economic policy over the years. His interventions in Parliament were also insightful. As our Prime Minister, he made extensive efforts to improve people’s lives." India mourns the loss of one of its most distinguished leaders, Dr. Manmohan Singh Ji. Rising from humble origins, he rose to become a respected economist. He served in various government positions as well, including as Finance Minister, leaving a strong imprint on our economic... pic.twitter.com/clW00Yv6oP Congress MP Priyanka Gandhi expressed her deep sorrow and wrote that few people in politics inspire the kind of respect that the former PM had. She added, "His honesty will always be an inspiration for us and he will forever stand tall among those who truly love this country as someone who remained steadfast in his commitment to serve the nation despite being subjected to unfair and deeply personal attacks by his opponents.He was genuinely egalitarian, wise, strongwilled and courageous until the end. A uniquely dignified and gentle man in the rough world of politics." Few people in politics inspire the kind of respect that Sardar Manmohan Singh ji did. His honesty will always be an inspiration for us and he will forever stand tall among those who truly love this country as someone who remained steadfast in his commitment to serve the nation... pic.twitter.com/BXA6zHG2Fq The official X handle of Congress expressing its grief wrote, "The demise of renowned economist and former Prime Minister of the country, respected Manmohan Singh ji is an irreparable loss to Indian politics. May God give peace to the departed soul and strength to his family to bear this sorrow. The Delhi Congress family pays homage to the memories of respected Manmohan ji and expresses gratitude for his contribution to nation building. Om Shanti." ALSO READ: Manmohan Singh No More: A Look At Key Decisions By Hero Of India’s Economic Liberalisation Reacting to the news, Rajya Sabha MP Manoj Kumar Jha wrote, "I still cannot believe this sad news. This is not just the end of an era but also a sign of the end of a trend where critics/opponents of government policies were not labelled as 'anti-nationals'. Goodbye Sir!! History shall not only be kind but provide you a higher pedestal forever.... #ManmohanSingh." इस दुखद खबर पर अभी भी भरोसा नहीं है.ये महज युगांत नहीं है बल्कि उस धारा के अवसान का भी संकेत है जहाँ आलोचक/सरकार की नीतियों के विरोधी 'राष्ट्रद्रोही' नहीं करार दिये जाते थे. Goodbye Sir!! History shall not only be kind but provide you a higher pedestal forever.... #ManmohanSingh pic.twitter.com/O6u0ZmJVRo Karnataka BJP President BY Vijayendra also took to his X handle to express his condolences. He wrote, "Deeply saddened by the passing of Dr. Manmohan Singh. From pioneering economic reforms that opened India’s gates to global markets, to steering the nation through turbulent times as Prime Minister, his contributions remain monumental. He will be remembered for his dignity, his intellect, and his unwavering commitment to India’s progress. May his soul rest in peace, and may his family find strength in this difficult hour. Deeply saddened by the passing of Dr. Manmohan Singh. From pioneering economic reforms that opened India’s gates to global markets, to steering the nation through turbulent times as Prime Minister, his contributions remain monumental. He will be remembered for his dignity, his... pic.twitter.com/yYld3mH4E9 Indian comedian and television host Kapil Sharma expressing his grief wrote, “India has lost one of its finest leaders today. Dr. Manmohan Singh, the architect of India’s economic reforms and a symbol of integrity and humility, leaves behind a legacy of progress and hope. His wisdom, dedication, and vision transformed our nation. Rest in peace, Dr. Singh. Your contributions will never be forgotten."

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16-year-old St. Louis youth hockey player Colin Brown has passed away days after being shot while riding home from a hockey game. Colin Brown was shot in St. Louis last Saturday while in a vehicle on Interstate 55. According to the St. Louis Metropolitan Police Department , Brown was hit by a stray bullet while being driven by his father, leaving a hockey game for Brown's team, CBC High School. The school posted their condolences on social media: The St. Louis Blues also offered condolences to the family of Brown, the team announcing they will be holding a pre-game moment this Saturday vs the Philadelphia Flyers to honor Brown's memory, which will include a 50/50 raffle in order to raise proceeds for the Brown family. In a statement, St. Louis Mayor Tishaura O. Jones called Brown's passing: St. Louis Metro PD said in a statement that Brown's organs were donated to those in need. The family has asked for privacy at this time according to police. The Homicide Division, which is taking over the investigation, is asking for anyone with information to contact 314-444-5371. Anonymously, callers can contact CrimeStoppers, who is offering a reward of $5,000, at 866-371-TIPS (8477). This article first appeared on Hockey Patrol and was syndicated with permission.