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Herbert tosses 3 TD passes and Chargers secure a playoff spot with a 40-7 rout of Patriots FOXBOROUGH, Mass. (AP) — Justin Herbert threw three touchdown passes and the Los Angeles Chargers clinched their second playoff appearance in three seasons with a 40-7 victory over the New England Patriots. The win also secured the fourth postseason appearance in Jim Harbaugh’s five seasons as an NFL coach, adding to the three he made during his stint with tAshe San Francisco 49ers. Herbert finished 26 of 38 for 281 yards to become the third player in NFL history with at least 3,000 passing yards and 20 touchdown passes in each of his first five seasons. The Patriots have lost six straight games, their second such losing streak of the season. They are now 2-14 the last two seasons at home. Dallas' Naji Marshall gets 4-game suspension, Phoenix's Jusuf Nurkic is banned 3 games for fight The NBA has suspended Dallas Mavericks forward Naji Marshall for four games and Phoenix Suns center Jusuf Nurkic for three games for their roles in an on-court fight during Friday night’s game. Dallas forward P.J. Washington was suspended for one game. All of the suspensions are without pay. Nurkic was called for an offensive foul while being guarded by Daniel Gafford with 9:02 left in the third quarter before the altercation quickly escalated. Nurkic confronted Marshall before taking an open-handed swing at his head and then Marshall responded with a punch. Washington quickly shoved Nurkic to the ground before the teams were separated. The NBA said Marshall “attempted to further engage Nurkic in a hostile manner in the corridor outside the locker rooms.” Shohei Ohtani to become a father for the 1st time in 2025 LOS ANGELES (AP) — Shohei Ohtani is adding a newcomer to his family lineup. The Los Angeles Dodgers superstar has posted on his Instagram account that he and wife Mamiko Tanaka are expecting a baby in 2025. The photo shows the couple's beloved dog, Decoy, as well as a pink ruffled onesie along with baby shoes and a sonogram that is covered by a baby emoji. Ohtani announced in February that he had married Tanaka, a former professional basketball player from his native Japan. The news from the intensely private player stunned Ohtani's teammates and his fans. Eli Manning and Antonio Gates are among the finalists for the Pro Football Hall of Fame Two-time Super Bowl MVP Eli Manning, former Defensive Players of the Year Luke Kuechly and Terrell Suggs, and prolific tight end Antonio Gates are among the finalists for the 2025 Pro Football Hall of Fame class. The Hall on Saturday announced the names of the 15 modern-era finalists who advanced from a group of 25 to the final stage of voting. The selection committee will vote next month to pick the class of between three and five modern-era players that will be announced the week of the Super Bowl. Georgia QB Carson Beck announces plan to enter NFL draft after season-ending elbow injury Georgia quarterback Carson Beck has announced his plans to enter the NFL draft, five days after having season-ending elbow surgery. The fifth-year senior made his NFL plans official on social media. Beck suffered a right elbow injury in the first half of the Bulldogs’ 22-19 overtime win over Texas in the Southeastern Conference championship game on Dec. 7. Beck had surgery on Monday to repair his ulnar collateral ligament in the elbow. He is expected to begin throwing next spring. Backup Gunner Stockton will make his first start in the Sugar Bowl against Notre Dame on Wednesday. Colts QB Anthony Richardson ruled out for Sunday's game against the Giants EAST RUTHERFORD, N.J. (AP) — Indianapolis quarterback Anthony Richardson has been ruled out for the Colts’ big game at the New York Giants on Sunday. Richardson missed practice on Thursday and Friday because of back and foot injuries. He was listed as questionable before he was downgraded to out. Indianapolis has a slim chance of making the playoffs. The Colts need to win out and get some help. Richardson’s absence likely means Joe Flacco will start against New York. Victor Wembanyama plays 1-on-1 chess with fans in New York Victor Wembanyama went to a park in New York City and played 1-on-1 with fans on Saturday. He even lost a couple of games. Not in basketball, though. Wemby was playing chess. Before the San Antonio Spurs left New York for a flight to Minnesota, Wembanyama put out the call on social media: “Who wants to meet me at the SW corner of Washington Square park to play chess? Im there,” Wembanyama wrote. It was 9:36 a.m. And people began showing up almost immediately. Mavs star Luka Doncic is latest pro athlete whose home was burglarized, business manager says DALLAS (AP) — Luka Doncic of the Dallas Mavericks is the latest professional athlete whose home has been burglarized. The star guard’s business manager tells multiple media outlets there was a break-in at Doncic’s home Friday night. Lara Beth Seager says nobody was home, and Doncic filed a police report. The Dallas Morning News reports that jewelry valued at about $30,000 was stolen. Doncic is the sixth known pro athlete in the U.S. whose home was burglarized since October. Star NFL quarterbacks Patrick Mahomes of Kansas City and Joe Burrow of Cincinnati are among them. The NFL and NBA have issued security alerts to players over the break-ins. Panthers place 1,000-yard rusher Chuba Hubbard on IR for final 2 games with strained calf CHARLOTTE, N.C. (AP) — The Carolina Panthers have shut down leading rusher Chuba Hubbard for the final two games of the season because of a strained calf. He was placed on injured reserve Saturday. Hubbard was limited in practice Friday with a knee injury and was listed as questionable to play Sunday against the Tampa Bay Buccaneers. After practice, Hubbard complained of pain and had an MRI, which revealed a grade two calf strain, according to the team. Hubbard ran for 1,195 yards and 10 touchdowns this season. He becomes the third Panthers running back to be placed on injured reserve this season, joining Miles Sanders and rookie Jonathan Brooks. Corbin Burnes and Arizona Diamondbacks agree to $210 million, 6-year deal, AP source says PHOENIX (AP) — Corbin Burnes and the Arizona Diamondbacks have agreed to a $210 million, six-year contract, a person familiar with the negotiations told The Associated Press. The person spoke to the AP on condition of anonymity because the deal was pending a successful physical. The 30-year-old Burnes was perhaps the top free agent pitcher on the market after going 15-9 with a 2.92 ERA for Baltimore last season. The Orioles acquired the right-hander in a February trade after he spent his first six major league seasons with the Milwaukee Brewers.Putin warned he will soon have to end war in Ukraine to save Russian economyJimmy Carter Dies: Longest-Living U.S. President Was 100
You Might Be Able to Install a Heat Pump Yourself. You Probably Shouldn't
I’m a supermarket worker – this is my list of the top five items to buy in Christmas sales and it’s not all foodAs the year winds down, IMOLEAYO OYEDEYI captures some of the most dominant events that shaped political discourse and challenged the effectiveness of government policies for the masses Ibadan Explosion A series of explosions in Ibadan, the capital of Oyo State, shattered the early excitement of 2024, raising concerns about the escalating menace of illegal mining across the country. The blasts, which dominated public discourse for weeks, claimed two lives, injured several others, and caused widespread destruction of property. The explosions tore off rooftops and shattered windows, leaving many homeless for days and prompting costly government rescue operations. Binance Executive Detention In February, one of the most contentious issues in the country was the arrest and detention of Binance executive, Tigran Gambaryan, on charges of money laundering and operating without a licence. However, his detention was short-lived, as he was eventually released due to deteriorating health and diplomatic interventions. Kano Emirate Tussle The first half of the year witnessed significant political drama in Kano, triggered by the state assembly’s repeal of the law that had divided the city into five emirates. Governor Abba Yusuf swiftly signed a new law, resulting in the removal of five prominent emirs: Aminu Ado Bayero of Kano, Nasir Ado Bayero of Bichi, Kabiru Muhammad Inuwa of Rano, Ibrahim Abubakar II of Karaye, and Aliyu Ibrahim Abdulkadir of Gaya. In a dramatic turn of events, former Central Bank Governor, Muhammadu Sanusi, who had been dethroned by the previous administration, was reinstated. However, Ado Bayero rejected the decision and moved to the Nasarawa palace. The two emirs, locked in a parallel leadership battle, continue to fuel tensions in Kano, making the emirate tussle one of the year’s most prominent issues. Cabinet reshuffle Amid months of intense speculation, President Bola Tinubu enacted a significant reshuffle of his 45-member cabinet on October 23, appointing seven new ministers, dismissing five, and reassigning 10 others to new roles. Notably, the ministers of finance, defence, and national planning, and two junior energy ministers retained their positions. The reshuffle also saw the Ministry of Niger Delta Development renamed the Ministry of Regional Development, the Ministry of Sports dissolved, and the Ministries of Tourism and Arts and Culture merged. The reshuffle sparked mixed reactions across Nigeria, with many questioning why some underperforming ministers were retained while others were dismissed. The public discourse surrounding these changes made it one of the year’s most debated political topics. Tax Reform Controversy Since Tinubu introduced his tax reform bills to the National Assembly in October, the proposals have become a major point of contention. The bills—comprising the Joint Revenue Board of Nigeria (Establishment) Bill, the Nigerian Revenue Service (Establishment) Bill, the Nigeria Tax Administration Bill, and the Nigeria Tax Bill—have sparked nationwide debate. Supporters argue that the reforms will ease the tax burden on 90 per cent of Nigerian workers, streamline tax procedures, support small businesses, and enhance tax collection efficiency. However, opposition from Northern lawmakers and leaders, including Senator Ali Ndume and Borno State Governor Babagana Zulum, has been vocal. Critics contend that the bills could disrupt business operations and negatively impact state government revenue, particularly in the Northern region. National Grid Collapses A persistent issue throughout 2024 was the frequent collapse of the national grid, occurring no fewer than 12 times. These grid failures caused widespread blackouts across some of Nigeria’s largest cities, including Abuja, Lagos, and Kano, severely disrupting daily life and economic activities. The outages paralysed businesses in affected regions, resulting in staggering financial losses. Northern electricity distribution companies alone reported losses exceeding N74 billion, underscoring the urgent need for reforms in the country’s power sector. Prison Break in Suleja On the night of Wednesday, April 24, 2024, a heavy downpour flooded the Medium Security Custodial Centre in Suleja, Niger State, sparking a dramatic prison break. The flood destroyed critical sections of the facility, including its perimeter fence, enabling the escape of 118 inmates. Although authorities later reported recapturing some fugitives, the incident raised serious concerns about prison security and disaster preparedness in Nigeria. The escape dominated the news for weeks, with many calling for urgent reforms in the country’s correctional system. Flooding in Northern Nigeria/Alau Dam Collapse A major humanitarian disaster in 2024 was the collapse of the Alau Dam in Borno State. On September 10, the dam’s embankment gave way, releasing an overwhelming 112 billion litres of water into low-lying areas in the Maiduguri metropolis and Jere Local Government Area. The resulting flood submerged entire towns and villages, displacing over one million people and affecting 414,000 residents. The catastrophe left hundreds homeless, prompting widespread sympathy and a swift response. Business tycoons and state governors donated over N13 billion to aid flood victims, highlighting the disaster’s devastating impact. Ondo and Edo Governorship Elections The off-cycle governorship elections in Ondo and Edo States were among the year’s most significant political events. In both contests, the Independent National Electoral Commission declared candidates from the All Progressives Congress—Lucky Aiyedatiwa in Ondo and Monday Okpebholo in Edo—as winners. In Ondo, Aiyedatiwa secured 366,781 votes, defeating the Peoples Democratic Party candidate, Agboola Ajayi, who polled 117,845 votes. Similarly, in Edo, Okpebholo garnered 291,667 votes to beat PDP’s Asue Ighodalo, who received 247,274 votes. However, the opposition rejected the results, citing allegations of widespread electoral fraud. Both cases are now before election petition tribunals, with hearings expected to gain momentum in the early part of 2025. #EndBadGovernance protest One of the most defining events of the outgoing year was the eruption of the #EndBadGovernance protests, also known as #EndBadGovernanceInNigeria. Between August 1 and 10, thousands of young Nigerians, frustrated by the soaring cost of living, took to the streets in mass demonstrations across all six geopolitical zones of the country. The protests quickly became a focal point in national discourse as they were met with brutal repression. Scores of protesters were killed, and over 1,000 were arrested across major protest grounds in cities such as Abuja, Lagos, Niger, Kano, Kaduna, and Katsina. These demonstrations marked one of the most significant political movements of the year. Detention of minors over protest A controversial event that dominated political discourse this year was the arraignment of at least 76 detained #EndBadGovernance protesters at the Federal High Court in Abuja. They faced ten counts of charges related to alleged treason and conspiracy to destabilise Nigeria, contrary to sections 96 and 97 of the Penal Code Act. Among those detained were 32 minors, aged between 14 and 17. Their court arraignment sparked nationwide outrage, especially when national television broadcasts showed clips of the minors, appearing malnourished and sickly, writhing in pain on the floor of the courtroom. Four of the minors collapsed before proceedings began, further igniting public anger. Amid growing controversy, the court eventually granted the minors bail at N10m each, with stringent conditions. The Arewa Consultative Forum condemned the Federal Government for its treatment of the minors, calling the trial a blatant attempt to intimidate citizens and stifle their constitutional rights to protest and voice grievances. Rise in killings, kidnappings, and terror attacks Year 2024 saw a chilling rise in cases of kidnappings, banditry, killings, and terror attacks across Nigeria, making it one of the deadliest years in recent memory. From mass kidnappings to village assaults, the year was marked by shocking brutality. High-profile kidnappings included the abduction of at least 61 people from Kajuru village in Kaduna State by bandits disguised in military uniforms on March 12, and the kidnapping of 80 people, mostly women and children, by bandits in Zamfara State on April 19. In a particularly brutal attack on May 24, suspected Boko Haram militants abducted 160 people in Kuchi village, Niger State, while at least 100 more were kidnapped in Maidabino village, Katsina State, on June 22. Related News Iconic moments of 2024 in style Falana blames Police for deaths in stampedes across Nigeria Stampedes won’t halt palliative distribution – FG The year also witnessed some of the most horrific fatal attacks. Bandits killed 40 people during an assault on Zurak village, Plateau State, on May 24. On the same day, Boko Haram terrorists killed 10 people in Kuchi village. A few weeks later, on June 10, unknown gunmen killed at least 50 residents of Yargoje village in Katsina State. The killing spree reached a devastating peak on March 14, when 17 Nigerian Army officers were massacred during a peace-keeping mission in Okuama, Delta State. Among the fallen were the Commanding Officer of the 181 Amphibious Battalion, Lt Col Ah Ali, and several other military personnel. Students were also not spared, as the year saw numerous abductions. Nine students from the Confluence University of Science and Technology in Osara, Kogi State, were abducted on May 10, and 20 medical and dental students were taken from Otukpo, Benue State, on August 15. Northern Nigeria, especially Borno and Zamfara States, endured a wave of bombings that left over 18 people dead and more than 30 injured in different explosions. In response, the military launched major counter-terrorism operations. On May 21, Nigerian troops rescued 350 Boko Haram hostages, primarily women and children, from the Sambisa Forest in Borno State. Additionally, 974 terrorists were killed, 466 hostages were freed, and 1,157 terrorists from Boko Haram and ISWAP surrendered in February. Spiking inflation, naira devaluation, and CBN interest rate hikes A persistent trend throughout the outgoing year was the alarming spike in both nominal and food inflation, which stood at 34.60 per cent and 39.93 per cent respectively in November. The surge in inflation was largely driven by the soaring cost of food, which placed an immense strain on Nigerian households across the country. Similarly, the Naira endured frequent devaluations, becoming the third most devalued currency in Sub-Saharan Africa in 2024. According to the Dataviz Economic Explorer, from November 2023 to November 2024, the naira depreciated by a staggering 51.79 per cent against the US dollar, based on the official exchange rate. This devaluation significantly increased Nigeria’s external debt, which rose by approximately N30.03 trillion from 2023 to June 2024 when evaluated in Naira terms. In response to this economic turmoil and to combat the mounting inflation, the Central Bank of Nigeria raised the interest rate six times throughout the year, eventually placing it at 27.25 per cent. This represented a cumulative increase of 875 basis points by November. National Anthem Change On May 29, Tinubu signed into law a controversial change to Nigeria’s national anthem, returning to the old version titled “Nigeria, We Hail Thee,” which had been in use since the country’s independence in 1960. This replaced the version “Arise, O Compatriots,” which had been adopted in 1978. The decision to revert to the old anthem sparked mixed reactions across the country, particularly due to the swift pace at which the legislation was debated and passed by the National Assembly. The lawmakers’ performance further fueled public debate when they sang the chorus “On your mandate we shall stand” in unison before the president in the Red Chamber, intensifying perceptions of their rubber-stamp nature. Bobrisky and Simon Ekpa’s detention One of the year’s most talked-about stories centred on the imprisonment of controversial social media personality and cross-dresser, Idris Okuneye, popularly known as Bobrisky, as well as pro-Biafran activist, Simon Ekpa. Bobrisky’s trouble began on April 3, 2024, when he was arrested and detained by the Lagos Command of the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission. He faced accusations of mutilating naira notes worth N490,000 and engaging in money laundering. This arrest followed the viral circulation of a video showing Bobrisky spraying naira notes at the premiere of the movie Ajakaju at Film One Circle Mall in Lekki, Lagos, on March 24, 2024. After being arraigned on six counts at the Federal High Court in Lagos, Bobrisky was sentenced to six months in prison without the option of a fine for abuse of the naira. However, his imprisonment became even more controversial when, upon his release on August 5, he appeared at a celebratory party just hours after walking out of jail. Many Nigerians were shocked to see him looking more radiant than ever, sparking suspicions about whether he had truly served his time in a custodial facility. This episode spiralled into heated exchanges involving Bobrisky, social media activist Martins Otse (also known as VeryDarkMan), the EFCC, and renowned lawyer Femi Falana over allegations of unpaid debts. This saga remained one of the year’s most divisive topics. In another high-profile case, Simon Ekpa was arrested on November 21 in Finland, alongside four others, on charges related to terrorism, including inciting violence and financing terrorism. According to Finnish media outlet Yle, Ekpa was remanded in custody by the Päijät-Häme District Court, facing charges of incitement to commit crimes with terrorist intent. He was accused of orchestrating violent actions in Nigeria’s South-East region through social media from Finland. The Federal Government sought Ekpa’s extradition to Nigeria, but the Finnish District Court has set May 2025 for the hearing of his case. Dele Farotimi and Afe Babalola saga The dramatic feud between elder statesman Chief Afe Babalola and civil rights activist Mr Dele Farotimi dominated national discourse in the outgoing year. Babalola took Farotimi to court in both the Federal High Court in Ekiti State and the Ekiti State Magistrate Court, accusing him of defamation and cyberbullying. The revered legal icon claimed that Farotimi had besmirched his character in his book Nigeria’s Criminal Justice System. The case sparked widespread public outrage, with many questioning why Farotimi was being prosecuted in Ekiti, rather than Lagos, where he resides. The Ekiti Magistrate Court eventually granted Farotimi bail in the sum of N30m, with two sureties, but the controversy surrounding the trial continued to fuel heated debates across the nation. Fatal stampedes In just four days, a series of tragic stampedes across Nigeria claimed the lives of at least 70 people in Ibadan (Oyo State), Okija (Anambra), and Abuja. These fatal incidents sparked political outrage, with opposition parties accusing the current administration of failing its citizens. They described the stampedes as glaring signs of leadership failures and widespread poverty, drawing further attention to the nation’s deepening socio-economic crisis. Labour Unions Strike In June, the leadership of the Nigerian Labour Congress and the Trade Union Congress (TUC) declared a nationwide strike due to the government’s failure to raise the federal minimum wage following an increase in electricity tariffs. The unions demanded an increase in the national minimum wage from 30,000 naira to 494,000 naira, but the presidency dismissed these demands as “unreasonable.” The strike dominated national discourse for weeks, plunging the country into darkness as union workers shut down the national grid and the nation’s power supply, according to the Transmission Company of Nigeria. However, after a prolonged battle, both the labour leadership and the Federal Government reached an agreement on a N70,000 national minimum wage. Opposition Verbal War with APC Over 2027 Presidency Another major issue in the outgoing year was the series of verbal clashes between the All Progressives Congress and opposition parties, particularly the Peoples Democratic Party, regarding the 2027 presidency. The verbal war began when the Secretary to the Government of the Federation, Dr. George Akume, declared that there would be no vacancy in the presidential villa in 2027, claiming that the current administration had exceeded expectations. In response, the PDP and prominent Northern politicians, such as former Vice President Atiku Abubakar, condemned Akume’s assertion, arguing that the poor performance of President Tinubu’s administration would lead to its ousting in the next presidential election. Miss Universe Nigeria In August, Chidimma Adetshina, who represented Taraba State, was crowned Miss Universe Nigeria 2024. Her journey to the title was considered remarkable by many Nigerians, reflecting resilience and grace, reminiscent of the Miss Universe South Africa incident, where she was disqualified. While she will be representing Nigeria on the global stage in Mexico, her victory was undoubtedly one of the most talked-about events of the outgoing year.
SAINT PAUL, Minn. (AP) — Mariah Keopple and Alexandra Labelle scored their first goals of the season and the Montreal Victoire edged the Minnesota Frost 3-2 on Saturday. Marie-Philip Poulin's goal almost six minutes into the second period was the difference as she converted a 2-on-1 from Laura Stacey and Jennifer Gardiner and Montreal (2-2-0-1), which went 0 for 3 on the power play, won its third straight while handing Minnesota (3-1-1-1) its first regulation loss of the season. Despite having the better control of the action from the start Montreal fell behind 1-0 near the middle of the first period when Claire Thompson and Taylor Heise set up Britta Curl-Salemme for her third goal of the season. But in the last five minutes of the period Keopple scored on a pass from Claire Dalton, and Labelle banged in a rebound of her initial shot. Minnesota pulled into a tie at just 3:17 into the second period when Brooke McQuigge picked up her first goal during a scramble in front of the Montreal goal. Barely 2 1/2 minutes later the Victoire were back on top on Poulin's second goal of the season and Ann-Renee Desbiens, who made 22 saves, made that stand up. Maddie Rooney made 22 saves for Minnesota, which went 0-1 on the power play. Boston plays at Montreal on Monday. The Frost are home against Boston on Thursday. ___ AP women’s hockey: https://apnews.com/hub/womens-hockey The Associated PressLove Island's Millie Court recounted a frightening encounter while on holiday in Australia with her boyfriend Liam Reardon. The 28 year old reality TV star revealed she was stung by a jellyfish, also known as a bluebottle, while swimming in the sea despite warning signs on the beach. Millie posted footage of the jellyfish and her subsequent rash on social media, sharing: "Goes into sea to get taken out by a huge wave, come up above water to find a blue jellyfish wrapped round my neck, in my hair, tentacles all round my stomach. I've never screamed so loud." She took responsibility for the incident, stating: "It's my own fault." Following the lifeguards' advice, Millie took a hot shower and applied ice to numb the pain, noting the rash would be itchy for about an hour. Read more Janette Manrara shares plans to expand family with Aljaz Skorjanec after 'tough loss' The influencer preemptively addressed potential criticism, insisting: "And before you say 'why on earth would you go in the sea then', there's so many people in there that were also unfazed and the lifeguards don't tell you to not go in so we thought, 'f*** it, it'll be fine'." Millie has been enjoying the festive season in Sydney with Liam and her friend Chloe Burrows, a fellow Love Island contestant, reports the Mirror . Before the mishap, Millie kept her followers envious with updates from their opulent beachside Christmas celebrations in Sydney. On social media, she expressed, "MERRY CHRISTMAS all the way from Sydney, Australia. It's now actually Boxing Day for us but we had the BEST time spending the day on the beach with all our friends. Wishing you all a merry Christmas and a happy new year." The loved-up pair who triumphed in the 2021 series of the ITV2 show moved into a swanky £1 million mansion in Essex. Fans were taken aback when the couple split in 2022, but they soon rekindled their romance. Despite living apart, with Millie in Essex and Liam in Wales, the distance has only strengthened their bond. While Millie eagerly anticipates a proposal from Liam, she hasn't been shy about hinting at her perfect engagement scenario and dream ring style, as per her recent chat with MailOnline: "Not that it means he'll do it any time soon but I thought better he knows now so when he does decide to, in the future, he knows what ring I like. He also knows what I would like proposal-wise as well, so where it would be and stuff," she disclosed.Red Cat Holdings, Inc. (NASDAQ:RCAT) Insider George Michael Matus Sells 72,093 Shares of Stock
Supreme Court steps into fight over FCC’s $8 billion subsidies for internet and phone services
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ATLANTA (AP) — Jimmy Carter, the peanut farmer who tried to restore virtue to the White House after the Watergate scandal and Vietnam War, then rebounded from a landslide defeat to become a global advocate of human rights and democracy, has died. He was 100 years old . The Carter Center said the 39th president died Sunday, more than a year after entering hospice care , at his home in Plains, Georgia, where he and his wife, Rosalynn, who died in November 2023, lived most of their lives. A moderate Democrat, Carter ran for president in 1976 as a little-known Georgia governor with a broad grin, effusive Baptist faith and technocratic plans for efficient government. His promise to never deceive the American people resonated after Richard Nixon’s disgrace and U.S. defeat in southeast Asia. “If I ever lie to you, if I ever make a misleading statement, don’t vote for me. I would not deserve to be your president,” Carter said. Carter’s victory over Republican Gerald Ford, whose fortunes fell after pardoning Nixon, came amid Cold War pressures, turbulent oil markets and social upheaval over race, women’s rights and America’s role in the world. His achievements included brokering Mideast peace by keeping Egyptian President Anwar Sadat and Israeli Prime Minister Menachem Begin at Camp David for 13 days in 1978. But his coalition splintered under double-digit inflation and the 444-day hostage crisis in Iran. His negotiations ultimately brought all the hostages home alive, but in a final insult, Iran didn’t release them until the inauguration of Ronald Reagan, who had trounced him in the 1980 election. Humbled and back home in Georgia, Carter said his faith demanded that he keep doing whatever he could, for as long as he could, to try to make a difference. He and Rosalynn co-founded The Carter Center in 1982 and spent the next 40 years traveling the world as peacemakers, human rights advocates and champions of democracy and public health. Awarded the Nobel Peace Prize in 2002, Carter helped ease nuclear tensions in North and South Korea, avert a U.S. invasion of Haiti and negotiate cease-fires in Bosnia and Sudan. By 2022, the center had monitored at least 113 elections around the world. Carter was determined to eradicate guinea worm infections as one of many health initiatives. Swinging hammers into their 90s, the Carters built homes with Habitat for Humanity. The common observation that he was better as an ex-president rankled Carter. His allies were pleased that he lived long enough to see biographers and historians revisit his presidency and declare it more impactful than many understood at the time. Propelled in 1976 by voters in Iowa and then across the South, Carter ran a no-frills campaign. Americans were captivated by the earnest engineer, and while an election-year Playboy interview drew snickers when he said he “had looked on many women with lust. I’ve committed adultery in my heart many times,” voters tired of political cynicism found it endearing. The first family set an informal tone in the White House, carrying their own luggage, trying to silence the Marine Band’s traditional “Hail to the Chief" and enrolling daughter, Amy, in public schools. Carter was lampooned for wearing a cardigan and urging Americans to turn down their thermostats. But Carter set the stage for an economic revival and sharply reduced America's dependence on foreign oil by deregulating the energy industry along with airlines, trains and trucking. He established the departments of Energy and Education, appointed record numbers of women and nonwhites to federal posts, preserved millions of acres of Alaskan wilderness and pardoned most Vietnam draft evaders. Emphasizing human rights , he ended most support for military dictators and took on bribery by multinational corporations by signing the Foreign Corrupt Practices Act. He persuaded the Senate to ratify the Panama Canal treaties and normalized relations with China, an outgrowth of Nixon’s outreach to Beijing. But crippling turns in foreign affairs took their toll. When OPEC hiked crude prices, making drivers line up for gasoline as inflation spiked to 11%, Carter tried to encourage Americans to overcome “a crisis of confidence.” Many voters lost confidence in Carter instead after the infamous address that media dubbed his “malaise" speech, even though he never used that word. After Carter reluctantly agreed to admit the exiled Shah of Iran to the U.S. for medical treatment, the American Embassy in Tehran was overrun in 1979. Negotiations to quickly free the hostages broke down, and then eight Americans died when a top-secret military rescue attempt failed. Carter also had to reverse course on the SALT II nuclear arms treaty after the Soviets invaded Afghanistan in 1979. Though historians would later credit Carter's diplomatic efforts for hastening the end of the Cold war, Republicans labeled his soft power weak. Reagan’s “make America great again” appeals resonated, and he beat Carter in all but six states. Born Oct. 1, 1924, James Earl Carter Jr. married fellow Plains native Rosalynn Smith in 1946, the year he graduated from the Naval Academy. He brought his young family back to Plains after his father died, abandoning his Navy career, and they soon turned their ambitions to politics . Carter reached the state Senate in 1962. After rural white and Black voters elected him governor in 1970, he drew national attention by declaring that “the time for racial discrimination is over.” Carter published more than 30 books and remained influential as his center turned its democracy advocacy onto U.S. politics, monitoring an audit of Georgia’s 2020 presidential election results. After a 2015 cancer diagnosis, Carter said he felt “perfectly at ease with whatever comes.” “I’ve had a wonderful life,” he said. “I’ve had thousands of friends, I’ve had an exciting, adventurous and gratifying existence.” ___ Contributors include former AP staffer Alex Sanz in Atlanta. Bill Barrow, The Associated PressHeat pumps are quickly becoming the most popular HVAC option for many Americans, with sales of the clean heating technology surpassing gas furnaces for the first time in 2022. The appeal of heat pumps comes from their ultra-efficient design, improved home comfort and generous government subsidies . As heat pumps become more popular generally so too do the DIY installation options, most notably from companies such as Mrcool that sell DIY installation kits. But are DIY heat pumps really a good idea? And what types of skills do you need to pull off your own installation? Here's how you can decide if a DIY heat pump is right for you. Can you install your own heat pump? Like most things, there's no one-size-fits-all answer here. "It's definitely more nuanced," said Simon Bernath , founder and CEO of FurnacePrices.ca , an online buying guide for heating and air conditioning systems. While you may not be playing with fire (as you would be with a furnace), heat pump installations are still pretty complex. "You still need to be fairly handy to do this," Bernath said. There are benefits and drawbacks to a DIY installation, just as there are with professional services. Installing a heat pump system on your own can work in a few different scenarios, Bernath said. First off: You need to have a baseline level of home improvement skills from other projects. "If you're just a regular person, I'd advise not to" do DIY, Bernath said. If you are experienced with other handiwork, Bernath said a ductless mini-split heat pump system is the easiest kind to install yourself. Ducted systems, where a heat pump unit connects to your home's existing ductwork, are more complicated and almost never suited to DIY installation, Bernath said. Doing a DIY installation is easiest if you buy one of the intended DIY kits from a company like MRCOOL, rather than buying a kit intended for professional contractors. Of course, there are also risks to a DIY approach. If you don't do everything right, your heat pump might not work, at least not work at peak efficiency. Overlooking small details could lead to damage to your home, from a leaking condensate pipe, for example. And if you do have issues, most HVAC contractors will be hesitant to work on (or guarantee a repair on) a system they didn't install, Bernath said. Plus, if you install equipment that was intended to be used by professional installers, it might void a manufacturer's warranty on the system. Pros: Cons: Calling in a professional HVAC installer is how most people get their heat pumps -- especially if it's a totally new system. Even if you decide to DIY parts of the installation, you could still opt for professional help for the electrical work, for example. The benefit of going with a professional installer, of course, is that they will make sure your system is set up properly and can help fix issues down the line if they come up. "It's not just about the initial installation," Bernath said. "That ongoing support is arguably just as important as the initial installation or even the brand you choose." Professional installation will of course be more expensive than a DIY approach, but it might be worth it in the long run to make sure your system is running at peak performance (which will then save you money on your utility bills). Pros: Cons: A mini-split heat pump is easier to DIY than one that uses air ducts, but both are complicated and a bad installation can lead to inefficiencies and problems. How much does it cost to install a heat pump? The price for the labor involved in installing a heat pump varies, but it can cost as much or more than the cost of the equipment itself. Depending on your home, the type of system you choose and where you live, the labor for installing a heat pump can cost as little as $500 or as much as thousands of dollars. Data from Angi suggest it generally costs $75 to $125 per hour per worker. You can get a better sense of the costs by contacting a heat pump installer and getting a free installation estimate. Don't forget the cost of permits, which could add a few hundred dollars no matter who does the installation. But if you're banking on a DIY installation saving time and hassle, add the burden of getting those permits yourself to the time and hassle column. When should you call a professional heat pump installer? Most homeowners are going to want to call a professional heat pump installer. If you're installing a heat pump for the first time to replace a different kind of heating system, you're almost always going to want professional help, especially if you don't have experience working with heating or electrical systems. If you're swapping in new equipment for an existing heat pump system, it might be easier to get away with a DIY installation. "It's best to err on the side of caution," Bernath said. "When in doubt, deal with a professional." How should you pick an HVAC installer? If you decide to call a professional, you'll want to spend some time finding the right one. Most HVAC contractors work with heat pumps now, so start by looking online, scanning reviews and seeking referrals from your friends and neighbors. You'll want to make sure an installer has the proper certifications and insurance for your area. And going with a company that's been around for a long time bodes well for reliability. When you're asking for referrals or reading reviews, pay special attention to how the contractor handles ongoing maintenance and support. A swift installation is great, but you want to make sure they'll be responsive if you need a repair in the future, Bernath said.
Jurriën Timber is confident Arsenal will rise to the challenge of playing without Bukayo Saka as he insisted there will be twists and turns to come in the Premier League title race. Arsenal began what will be a lengthy spell without the injured Saka on Friday when they beat Ipswich 1-0 at the Emirates, closing to within six points of Liverpool, albeit having played one more game than the leaders. Saka has undergone hamstring surgery and as he faces up to a minimum of two months out, there was a focus on Arsenal’s right flank where Timber in the full-back position had Gabriel Martinelli ahead of him. Mikel Arteta moved Martinelli over from the left wing to start instead of Saka and the Brazilian struggled against a compact Ipswich team . The right-footed Martinelli is used to cutting inside from the other flank, much as the left-footed Saka does from the right. Timber acknowledged the obvious differences between the pair but he has faith in Martinelli and the team to overcome this latest setback. Arsenal missed their captain, Martin Ødegaard, for seven league games from mid-September; they won three of them without him. They have also been hit by injured players in defence. “It’s not the first big challenge this season that we have faced,” Timber said. “As a team we will just try everything to win our games. Of course, it is a bit different to having Bukayo. But Martinelli has showed already a couple of times that he can play both sides. He is a big threat for every defender and I think he is going to show it. “Everyone knows how important Bukayo is for us, what he did for Arsenal for the last couple of years. Of course we are waiting for him to get back but it’s a nice challenge for the team, for others to step up.” Timber was asked about the gap to Liverpool, who have already visited the Emirates, drawing 2-2 in October. The return at Anfield is 10 May, their third last fixture of the season. Sign up to Football Daily Kick off your evenings with the Guardian's take on the world of football after newsletter promotion “What I heard from the guys is that in the Premier League everything can happen,” Timber said. “We just have to focus on ourselves, win our games and from there we will see.”
No. 4 USD’s late TD upends No. 1 NDSUIf Christmas gift shopping were a bingo game, soap, candles and chocolates would be a surefire win. But Singapore’s small businesses are upping the ante with delicious looking soaps, candles with second lives and chocolates infused with teh tarik and masala chai. Shopping locally not only means gifting one-of-a-kind presents; you also get to support homegrown artisans and, in many cases, causes that give back to society. From handcrafted homeware and fun fashion to books, stationery and tasty treats, these 28 brands are all you need to sleigh your holiday shopping this year. 1. Hands Design The founder of Hands Design is living proof it’s never too late to discover your passion. At 59, after countless YouTube tutorials, this former cement truck driver-turned-self-taught craftsman now creates stunning wooden and resin homeware along with his family. Think charcuterie boards for party hosts, or desktop stands and wrist rests for your workaholic pals. Finally, home office essentials that fit the study they painstakingly designed. 2. Hikari & Shores Sure, Taobao makes home decor shopping easy, but mass-produced items rarely compare to one-of-a-kind creations. Enter Hikari and Shores, founded by a wedding photographer-turned-artist with a flair for crafting intricate wooden lighthouses, cabins and even 4x4s. Perched on “rocks” and suspended in wooden frames, these enchanting pieces are perfect for commemorating a shared adventure or adding a touch of magic to any space. 3. Habichl Working alongside her “employee of the month” – a mini dachshund named Riley – the founder of Habichl creates tufted textile pieces inspired by nature and its vibrant colours. From coasters to wall-hung rugs adorned with flora and fauna, these functional designs also shine as art when arranged in a three-by-three grid. Don’t miss her latest creations on The Stacked Store, like the sunny side-up and burger stack coasters. 4. Clean Folks Club Soaps might be the go-to budget gifts, but let’s be honest – they’re often forgettable. Which is why Clean Folks Club is changing that with “creative dessert soaps”. The Christmas Wreath Cake Soap combines festive scents like lemon, vanilla, peppermint, and cranberry, while the Ang Ku Kueh Soap brings Christmas colours and a chuckle. Or get ahead with the Pineapple Tart Soap Set – Chinese New Year is only a couple of months away. 5. The Plant Loft For the friend who can’t keep their plant alive longer than a YouTube Premium trial, the Plant Loft’s gift sets come with guides that spell out everything – where to place them, how much water they need and how to revive them when they’re looking a little sad. Looking for something cute that’s nearly impossible to kill? Try the heart-shaped Hoya Kerrii, which only needs watering once a week. 6. NPCC No, not the National Police Cadet Corps – this NPCC is a fresh creative concept store lighting up New Bahru. Their acrylic lamps are customisable, with layers and colours crafted for fans of the dopamine decor trend. These lamps will feel right at home on an eclectic display shelf and, even in a neutral home, deliver just the right pop of colour to brighten the mood – and the room. 7. Ves Studio Who said pottery had to be boring beige? Ves Studio, nestled in Chip Bee Gardens, redefines ceramics with playful handmade homeware. The Ishi Collection, available in three vibrant colourways, brings texture and charm to your coffee or tea routine, while the Messymsxi 2.0 collaboration features hand-painted vases and plates that double as wall art. Feeling quirky? Their face-adorned pieces will add a touch of whimsy in any space. 8. Pass It On From plantable candles to crockery made from upcycled rice and coconut husks, Pass It On’s products are here to bring the festive cheer without the waste. Even the packaging is designed with care – their limited-edition furoshiki wraps transform into hand towels, table mats, or wine bottle holders; while reusable gift tags double as coasters. Now, that’s what we call guilt-free gifting. 9. Goodness Gracious Founded by a mum determined to ditch plastic, Goodness Gracious is another option for eco-conscious shoppers. Their handmade beeswax food wraps use 100 per cent cotton fabric, Australian beeswax, organic coconut oil, and natural tree resin, and come in designs like Peranakan tiles and Italian villas. A thoughtful gift for any budding domestic goddess – and a win for planet Earth too. 10. Sojao Sojao’s bed linen is proof that solid-coloured bed linen is anything but boring, but there’s more to their products than aesthetics. GOTS-certified, breathable and softer with every wash, their sheets are ideal for Singapore’s humid nights. Pair them with their lightweight Summer Quilts – available in a smaller size for fur kids – for the ultimate snuggle session. 11. Beyond The Vines Available in four sizes and a wide range of colours, the Dumpling Bag is a familiar sight in Singapore for good reason. But while this hero product gets all the glory, other versatile designs like the Crunch Carryall deserve some love too. Water-resistant and spacious enough to fit a 15-inch laptop, this nylon tote might just be the better pick for the men on your gift list. 12. Jiakuma Here’s another dumpling bag that caught our eye. Inspired by the childhood game of five stones, Jiakuma’s Origami Dumpling Bag is part of their Japanese-inspired collection, alongside the octagonal Mariko and knotted Kiki series. Hand-stitched in Singapore with textiles from around the world, the bags feature loud, quirky prints. Many designs are reversible, so you're basically getting two bags for the price of one. (#girlmath) 13. Studio Qiling Studio Qiling, whose co-founder boasts a Louis Vuitton and Goyard pedigree , stands out with silk accessories featuring hand-drawn flora and fauna. The Classic Porcelain Cat – one of their bestsellers, depicting a Singapura Cat frolicking among blue-and-white florals inspired by traditional Chinese porcelain. The print can be worn as a scarf, bandeau, kimono, or our personal favourite, the pareo, which transforms into a halter top or wrap skirt. 14. Snuggly Studio Snuggly Studio started with quirky rugs for floors, tables, and walls but has since expanded into clothing. Gifting apparel can be a gamble, but their graphic tees and neutral loungewear are safe bets. The Intentional Summer tee is a gentle reminder to slow down and embrace self-care, while the New Curves co-ord set – with its curved hem and slouchy slacks – makes a trendy airport outfit for your jet-setting friend. 15. Plain Supplies 16. Faire Collective Also born on Kickstarter, Faire Collective is all about clean, polished designs with compartments that actually make sense for modern professionals. (Brief)case in point: The Bond All-Purpose Briefcase has a spot for everything from laptops to chargers. Frequent travellers will love the trolley slot strap that slides onto carry-on luggage, and the small pockets for mobile pins and SIM cards? Total game-changers. 17. Rugged Gentlemen Shoppe For adventurers who like a bit of scruff, try Rugged Gentlemen Shoppe from Obbigood Label. Founded in 2019 by a group of crafters, it blends premium leather with all things outdoorsy for a tough yet refined look. Take their handmade belt made from full-grain cowhide and solid brass buckles that develop a patina over time, or the OGL Kingsman Bi-Fold Wallet, crafted from “almost unbreakable” Japanese Tochigi leather. 18. Talking Toes From Axe Oil and Mamee logos to the classic Good Morning Towel, Talking Toes is the go-to brand for fun local designs. There’s a pair for every personality – mahjong fans, durian lovers, and that one friend who needs kopi and toast even when they’re abroad. And for the introverts recovering from the holiday hustle, their Social Hangover Club collection couldn’t have come at a better time. 19. Siders Online Often, the best gifts are the ones people wouldn’t buy for themselves, and that’s exactly what you’ll find at Siders Online. Your Owala tumbler doesn’t need a cap, but if it doubles as an earphones pouch, why not? Fruit-shaped bags might seem extra, but hey, they’re water-resistant, and our toiletries aren’t going to pack themselves. And those claw clips shaped like sushi, pasta, and croissants? Take our money already. 20. A-kynd Gifting jewellery doesn’t have to be all serious business – A-kynd has you covered with their fun and functional pieces. From holographic daisies to gummy bears and balloon dogs, their quirky charms decorate shower- and tarnish-proof earrings and necklaces. Bonus: Your recipient can mix and match charms, a la Pandora, for a personalised look. And with adjustable rings, you’ll never have to stress about sizing again. 21. Epigram If you’re shopping for old souls who still love the feel of a real book, head over to Epigram Coffee Bookshop, Singapore’s first bookstore dedicated to local titles, before it closes in January 2025 . There’s something for everyone at Epigram – from self-care journals for teens and young adults to children’s stories with lessons that resonate with adults, much like a good Pixar film. 22. Books Beyond Borders Books Beyond Borders, the secondhand bookstore helping fund girls' education in Nepal, now has a physical store at The Scarlet Singapore. While you’re giving their well-loved books a second life this Christmas, check out their sister brand, Two Storytellers, for gifts made by artisans in Nepal. That new read would be even better with a journal made from handcrafted paper to go along with it. 23. Drool Stamps Founded by a Singaporean illustrator who turned her childhood hobby of eraser carving into a stamp empire, Drool Stamps touts a menagerie of animal-themed rubber stamps, featuring the internet’s favourite critters – capybaras, alpacas, sloths – and furry friends that will make any pawrent swoon. Gunning for best secret Santa of the year? Get a custom wooden stamp – a name, couple portrait, or even a family portrait. 24. Artisan Collab Artisan Collab is an initiative under SPD’s Sheltered Workshop that helps persons with disabilities through vocational training and employment. Their artisans, including leather apprentices and bookbinders – some of the last of their kind in Singapore – craft everything from key fobs to handbound journals wrapped in printed fabrics and finished with hot stamping. When you buy one, you’re not just gifting something handmade – you’re supporting meaningful work and preserving a cherished tradition. 25. Hook Coffee Coffee lovers will always appreciate a caffeinated Christmas package, and whether your recipient prefers beans by the bag, Nespresso pods for busy mornings, or drip bags for their travels, Hook Coffee has it all (in fun flavours like Iced Gem Biscuits, no less). Know someone ready to turn their nose up at 3-in-1 coffee? Their gift sets – complete with equipment – are the gateway to the rabbit hole of coffee gear. 26. Tily Tea When Tily Tea’s founder brewed Codonopsis with red dates and goji berries at the instruction of her TCM practitioner to help her husband power through his late nights, she had no idea that was the first cup of Tily Tea. Fast forward to today, the brand offers tonic teas packed with Chinese herbs usually reserved for soups. Their gift collection, packed in festive tins and cute tea ware, is a fun way to show you care without getting all preachy about supplements. 27. Fossa If Fossa can turn Soy Milk and Youtiao into chocolate, surely they can turn the classic Christmas gift – chocolates – into something special. The Singapore Flavours set, featuring flavours like Teh Tarik and Masala Chai, is ideal for non-locals or friends living abroad. For a more festive touch, their Christmas Town Gift Set includes three flavours: Apple Cinnamon, Amanatsu & Mint, and Christmas Fruit Cake with 72 per cent dark chocolate – sure to earn that coveted “not too sweet” approval. 28. The 1925 Brewing Co It isn’t a party without a little booze, and The 1925 Brewing Co has just the craft beers to set the mood. This family-run brewery honours their Singaporean Teochew heritage, crafting beers that pair perfectly with Asian cuisine. Expect distinctive flavours like Kaya Toast, Musang King and Liang Teh Lager (Chrysanthemum), a 4.8 per cent ABV brew featured in their six-pack gift set.These 25 Trending Gifts From Google’s Holiday 100 List Are Discounted for Black Friday
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