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The end of the holiday week encountered volatility, with the major U.S. indices suffering conspicuous declines . In turn, the cryptocurrency ecosystem was muted, extending a soft spell that began around a week-and-a-half ago. Unfortunately for investors of crypto miners like MARA Holdings MARA , the downturn also impacted the business end of the blockchain. However, contrary to popular belief, speculators should consider refraining from buying the dip. Of course, the temptation is understandable. At the beginning of this week, Benzinga's unusual options activity screener identified a substantial volume of bearish activity against MARA stock. Specifically, the biggest transaction among the whales — or institutional investors — was for $8 put options expiring Jan. 16, 2026. That implies about a 57% implosion from the time-of-writing price. Still, as the meme-stock phenomenon demonstrated, contrarian speculation can sometimes lead to big rewards. Fueling this sentiment is the fact that, at the moment, MARA stock represents one of the largest increases in short interest . Currently, MARA's short interest stands at 25.12%, whereas the prior reading sat at 20.98%. By aggressively piling into the long side, the contrarian bulls could theoretically panic out the bears. Structurally, in order to close out a short position, the bearish trader must execute a counterbalancing long transaction. Logically, a panicked rush of long volume could skyrocket the target security, leading to a bonanza. Nevertheless, the empirical data doesn't support this approach for MARA stock. Also Read: Veteran Investor Bets Big On S&P 500 Hitting 7,000 By End Of 2025: These Sectors Could Lead The Charge Dynamic Probability Analysis Reveals a Surprising Outcome In baseball, knowing a player's batting average over the past few seasons is only partially useful. What's more beneficial to managers is understanding a player's tendencies in key situations, such as the batting average when there are runners in scoring position. Great athletes naturally rise to the occasion and this philosophy applies to Wall Street as well. Over the past five years, the likelihood that any given week will end in a positive return comes out to 50.2%. This figure is calculated by taking the number of positive weeks over the total number of weeks in the given dataset (i.e. trailing five years). However, this simple frequentist calculation doesn't reveal much, similar to the utility of a batting average over a full season. Instead, it's better to apply a dynamic probability analysis by understanding how MARA stock responds to extreme volatility. As of this writing, MARA is on pace to record a five-day loss of around 7%. Using this metric as the "anchor," an investor can calculate how such a volatile event impacts the probability of the following week. In the blockchain miner's case, over the past five years, there have been 89 instances when MARA stock incurred a 7% loss or worse. Of this tally, 44 subsequent weeks recorded a positive return or a success ratio of 49.44%. Practically speaking, aberrant volatility offers no reliable indicator beyond a coin toss as to whether or not MARA will immediately rise. However, when the blockchain miner offers a positive response week, the average return comes out to 18.2%. On the flipside, a negative response week yields an average loss of 13.2%. By extracting this critical intelligence, traders can make an informed decision about a potentially appropriate options strategy. A Long Iron Condor Trade Beckons for MARA Stock Although the immediate direction of MARA stock is not statistically clear, the empirical data reveals that there is a good chance of significant mobility. Therefore, investors may consider a directionally neutral strategy called the long iron condor. Structurally a combination of a bull call spread and a bear put spread , the central idea is that the participating trader anticipates unusual kinesis in either direction. Of the four legs of the long iron condor, the trader is betting that the target security can rise to the uppermost strike price (or the bull call spread's short strike) or fall to the lowermost strike price (or the bear put spread's short strike). For the unaccustomed trader, picking a long iron condor is a frustrating guessing game. However, thanks to the aforementioned dynamic probability analysis, investors can apply data-driven intelligence to their transactions. Specifically, integrating the average upside and downside (assuming a weekly 7% loss) to the current share price reveals a projected range between $16.08 and $21.89 by the end of the following week. From here, it's about finding the best fit within the broader context of the trader's risk tolerance. For instance, an investor could find a long iron condor expiring next Friday (Jan. 3) where the lowermost and uppermost strike prices are $16 and $22, respectively. However, there's no guarantee that MARA will hit these figures; the aforementioned calculations are based on probabilities, not certainties. For a slightly more conservative trade, one might consider the 17P | 18P || 20C | 21C condor or the 17/18 bear put spread combined with the 20/21 bull call spread. To receive the maximum payout, MARA stock needs to rise to $21 or fall to $17. While still risky, it's a comparatively more realistic trade. Read Next: ExxonMobil Stock Navigates Death Cross: Market Signals Turn Bearish For Oil Giant Photo: Shutterstock © 2024 Benzinga.com. Benzinga does not provide investment advice. All rights reserved.ATI Inc executive chairman Robert S. Wetherbee sells $1.47 million in stock

Calgary police have laid charges and are checking for drug impairment in a horrific high-speed multi-vehicle crash that killed one girl and left another child in critical condition on Boxing Day. Read this article for free: Already have an account? To continue reading, please subscribe: * Calgary police have laid charges and are checking for drug impairment in a horrific high-speed multi-vehicle crash that killed one girl and left another child in critical condition on Boxing Day. Read unlimited articles for free today: Already have an account? Calgary police have laid charges and are checking for drug impairment in a horrific high-speed multi-vehicle crash that killed one girl and left another child in critical condition on Boxing Day. “We share the deep sadness felt by the family and loved ones who have had their lives forever changed by someone’s disregard for public safety,” Calgary police Acting Insp. Andy Woodward said in a news release Friday. The statement said speed and impairment by drugs are being investigated as potential contributing factors in the crash. Police also released more details on the crash that occurred on the city’s south side just before 10 a.m. Thursday. They have said it began when police responded to reports of a pharmacy robbery at Pharmasave Millrise at around 9 a.m., where the suspect allegedly assaulted a pharmacist and drove away in a stolen car. The driver was chased by police, but because of the driver’s unsafe driving behaviour and traffic, officers stopped the pursuit and instead used helicopter air watch. The suspect, they said, was erratically driving a Dodge Caravan, “weaving in and out of traffic.” Around 9:50 a.m., he roared through the intersection, running a red light at Macleod Trail and Southland Drive. Two cars also came through the intersection at the same time, crossed his path and were hit: a Toyota 4Runner driven by a woman in her 40s; and a Pontiac Vibe operated by a woman in her 40s with two child passengers. That set off a chain-reaction crash that saw the first two vehicles struck by the suspect’s Caravan slam into two more trucks. The Caravan, meanwhile, proceeded on and struck a light post in the median and came to a stop. The trio in the Pontiac Vibe – the woman and two children – were all sent to hospital in critical condition. “Sadly, one of the children passengers succumbed to her injuries yesterday,” said police in the release. The woman was later upgraded to stable, but the second child remained in critical care at Alberta Children’s Hospital. The age and gender of the child were not released by police. “Sadly, one of the children passengers succumbed to her injuries yesterday,” said police in the release. The woman driving the 4Runner was listed in stable condition. The four people in the other two vehicles hit in the chain-reaction crash – three men and a woman – received minor injuries. Winnipeg Jets Game Days On Winnipeg Jets game days, hockey writers Mike McIntyre and Ken Wiebe send news, notes and quotes from the morning skate, as well as injury updates and lineup decisions. Arrives a few hours prior to puck drop. The Alberta Serious Incident Response Team, or ASIRT, was called in to check on police actions prior to the crash. “After reviewing available evidence, a determination was made that the actions of the involved officers did not directly contribute to the collision,” police said. “Therefore, ASIRT will have no further involvement in the matter.” The accused was arrested on scene and faces 11 charges, including robbery, theft, dangerous driving causing death, driving without a licence, fleeing from police, dangerous driving causing bodily harm and dangerous driving causing death. Duane Arlen John Nepoose, 30, has been remanded in custody with a court date pending. This report by The Canadian Press was first published Dec. 27, 2024. Advertisement AdvertisementSea Turtle With ‘Bubble Butt Syndrome’ Swimming Again Thanks to 3D-Printed Harness

NoneWhy Australia’s incoming under-16 social media ban makes total sense

DEM Party expected to hold face-to-face meeting with Abdullah Ocalan, who has been in prison for 25 years. Turkiye will allow parliament’s pro-Kurdish party to visit the jailed founder of the Kurdistan Workers’ Party (PKK) on his island prison, setting up the first such visit in nearly a decade. The Justice Ministry approved a request by the Peoples’ Equality and Democracy Party (DEM Party) to meet Abdullah Ocalan, who is serving life in solitary confinement, a DEM spokesperson said late on Friday. Justice Minister Yilmaz Tunc confirmed the move in remarks to the TGRT news channel. “We responded positively to DEM’s request for a meeting. Depending on the weather conditions, they will go to Imrali tomorrow [Saturday] or Sunday,” he said, referring to the prison island where Ocalan has been held for 25 years. Friday’s decision came after DEM requested the visit last month, soon after a key ally of President Recep Tayyip Erdogan expanded on a proposal to end the 40-year-old conflict between the state and Ocalan’s outlawed PKK. Devlet Bahceli, leader of the Nationalist Movement Party, made the call a month after suggesting that Ocalan announce an end to the rebellion in exchange for the possibility of his release. Erdogan described Bahceli’s initial proposal as a “historic window of opportunity”. After the latest call last month, Erdogan said he was in complete agreement with Bahceli on every issue and that they were acting in harmony and coordination. “To be frank, the picture before us does not allow us to be very hopeful,” Erdogan said in parliament. “Despite all these difficulties, we are considering what can be done with a long-range perspective that focuses not only on today but also on the future.” Bahceli regularly condemns pro-Kurdish politicians as tools of the PKK, which they deny. Regional changes DEM’s predecessor party was involved in peace talks between Ankara and Ocalan a decade ago, last meeting him in April 2015. The peace process and a ceasefire collapsed soon after, unleashing the most deadly phase of the conflict. DEM MPs Sirri Sureyya Onder and Pervin Buldan, who both met Ocalan as part of peace talks at the time, will travel to Imrali island to meet him this weekend, the party said. Turkiye and its Western allies designate the PKK as a “terrorist group”. More than 40,000 people have been killed in the fighting, which in the past was focused in the mainly Kurdish southeast but is now centred on northern Iraq, where the PKK is based. Growing regional instability and changing political dynamics are seen as factors behind the bid to end the conflict with the PKK. The chances of success are unclear as Ankara has given no clues on what it may entail. Since the fall of Bashar al-Assad in Syria this month, Ankara has repeatedly insisted that the Kurdish People’s Protection Units (YPG) militia, which it sees as an extension of the PKK, must disband, asserting that the group has no place in Syria’s future. The YPG is the main component of the US-allied Syrian Democratic Forces (SDF). SDF commander Mazloum Abdi (also known as Mazloum Kobani) acknowledged the presence of PKK fighters in Syria for the first time last week, saying they had helped fight ISIL (ISIS) fighters and would return home if a total ceasefire was agreed upon with Turkiye, a core demand from Ankara. Authorities in Turkiye have continued to crack down on alleged PKK activities. Last month, the government replaced five pro-Kurdish mayors in southeastern cities for suspected PKK ties, in a move that drew criticism from DEM and others.Faruqi & Faruqi Reminds AMMO Inc Investors of the Pending Class Action Lawsuit with a Lead Plaintiff Deadline of January 13, 2025 - ASMLThe Israeli military says it has struck dozens of targets throughout Lebanon, shortly after Hezbollah accused Israel of violating a ceasefire agreement and fired missiles on an Israeli military position in the disputed Shebaa Farms area. or signup to continue reading Residents in Beirut told Reuters they heard drones flying overhead late on Monday evening as Lebanon's official news agency reported Israel had renewed strikes in southern Lebanon. Earlier, Hezbollah launched what it called a "defensive warning strike." On Monday, Lebanese authorities said Israeli strikes on southern Lebanon killed at least two people. The exchange of fire put a US-brokered ceasefire between the two in an increasingly fragile position less than a week after it took effect. The truce prohibits Israel from conducting offensive military operations in Lebanon while requiring Lebanon to prevent armed groups, including Hezbollah, from launching attacks on Israel. The Israeli military reported no casualties from Hezbollah's two missile launches but Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu vowed a "strong" response. Hezbollah said its rocket fire, the first operation the group had announced since the ceasefire came into effect on Wednesday, was in retaliation for repeated Israeli violations of the truce. Lebanese speaker of parliament Nabih Berri, a Hezbollah ally who negotiated the truce on behalf of Lebanon, said Beirut had noted at least 54 ceasefire violations by Israel since Wednesday. Lebanon's official news agency NNA said Israeli forces fired two artillery shells toward the southern Lebanese town of Beit Lif in the Bint Jbeil district, while heavy machine gun fire targeted Yaroun. No injuries were reported in either incident, NNA said, but it added that a separate Israeli strike injured others in southern Lebanese town of Talousa. Berri urged the committee tasked with monitoring the truce to "urgently" ensure Israel halts its breaches. "We are engaging through a mechanism with France, Israel, and Lebanon to investigate and address reports of violations," US State Department spokesperson Matthew Miller said, adding that early ceasefire periods are often fragile but had broadly succeeded in reducing violence. Lebanon and Israel have already traded accusations of breaches, and on Monday Lebanon said the violations had turned deadly. One person was killed in an Israeli air attack on Marjayoun, about 10 km (6 miles) from Israel's northern border, Lebanon's health ministry said. Lebanon's state security agency said an Israeli drone strike in Nabatieh killed a member of its force, calling the incident a "flagrant violation" of the truce. The Lebanese army said an Israeli drone struck an army bulldozer near the Syrian border, wounding one soldier. The Israeli military did not immediately respond to questions about the incidents in Marjayoun and Nabatieh but said it had targeted military vehicles near Hezbollah infrastructure in Lebanon's Bekaa Valley and near the Syrian border. Israeli Foreign Minister Gideon Saar denied wrongdoing, accusing Hezbollah of moving weapons south of the Litani River in defiance of the agreement. "Israel is committed to the successful implementation of the ceasefire, but we will not accept a return to the situation as it stood on October 6, 2023," Saar said in a statement. Public broadcaster Kan reported that US envoy Amos Hochstein, who brokered the truce, warned Israel over alleged violations. Israeli Finance Minister Bezalel Smotrich called for a "powerful blow" against Hezbollah, saying the group had made a "big mistake" by targeting Israeli territory. DAILY Today's top stories curated by our news team. WEEKDAYS Grab a quick bite of today's latest news from around the region and the nation. WEEKLY The latest news, results & expert analysis. WEEKDAYS Catch up on the news of the day and unwind with great reading for your evening. WEEKLY Get the editor's insights: what's happening & why it matters. WEEKLY Love footy? We've got all the action covered. WEEKLY Every Saturday and Tuesday, explore destinations deals, tips & travel writing to transport you around the globe. WEEKLY Going out or staying in? Find out what's on. WEEKDAYS Sharp. Close to the ground. Digging deep. Your weekday morning newsletter on national affairs, politics and more. TWICE WEEKLY Your essential national news digest: all the big issues on Wednesday and great reading every Saturday. WEEKLY Get news, reviews and expert insights every Thursday from CarExpert, ACM's exclusive motoring partner. TWICE WEEKLY Get real, Australia! Let the ACM network's editors and journalists bring you news and views from all over. AS IT HAPPENS Be the first to know when news breaks. DAILY Your digital replica of Today's Paper. Ready to read from 5am! DAILY Test your skills with interactive crosswords, sudoku & trivia. Fresh daily! Advertisement AdvertisementOrcas Are Wearing Salmon Hats. Again.

Federal fisheries proposal would slash commercial elver quota in 2025

Kicker Greg Zuerlein set to return for Jets, wide receiver Davante Adams optimistic about playingPARIS — French President Emmanuel Macron pledged Thursday to remain in office until the end of his term in 2027 and announced plans to appoint a new prime minister within days following the resignation of Michel Barnier after a historic no-confidence vote. The political upheaval, triggered by budget disputes, has left France without a functioning government. Macron blamed his far-right opponents for creating “disorder” and accused both the far right and far left of forming an “anti-Republican front.” “They chose disorder,” Macron said, while asserting, “I won’t shoulder other people’s irresponsibility.” While critical of his political opponents, Macron admitted his decision to dissolve parliament earlier this year contributed to the crisis. He acknowledged widespread criticism of his move, which led to legislative elections and a hung parliament, but maintained that it was necessary to give voters a voice. “I do recognize that this decision wasn’t understood. Many criticized me for it,” Macron said. “However, I believe it was necessary.” Macron said the incoming prime minister will lead a government focused on the “general interest” and will present a special law by mid-December to ensure taxes can be levied in January, preventing a government shutdown. The administration’s next priority will be crafting a 2025 budget to fund defense, justice, police, and support for struggling farmers. Amid domestic challenges, Macron highlighted international crises, including the wars in Ukraine and the Middle East. He urged the nation to focus on resilience, referencing the Paris Olympics and the reopening of Notre Dame Cathedral as proof of France’s ability to overcome challenges. “It’s proof that we know how to do great things, that we know how to achieve the impossible,” he said. Yaël Braun-Pivet, president of the National Assembly and a member of Macron’s party, called on the president to quickly appoint a new prime minister to lead the minority government. “There must not be any political hesitation. We need a leader who can speak to everyone and work to pass a new budget bill,” she said. The no-confidence vote has galvanized opposition leaders, with some calling for Macron’s resignation. Manuel Bompard, leader of the far-left France Unbowed party, argued that stability required Macron’s departure, while far-right leader Marine Le Pen predicted increasing pressure on the president. Macron, however, faces no constitutional obligation to resign and legislative elections cannot be held before July, potentially prolonging the political deadlock. The political turmoil has exacerbated concerns about France’s economic stability. Analysts warn that the crisis could push up French interest rates, complicating efforts to manage the nation’s ballooning debt, which could rise to 7% of GDP next year without reforms. Moody’s has cautioned that the government’s fall reduces the likelihood of stabilizing public finances, further undermining confidence in the nation’s economic future. — Agencies < Previous Page Next Page >

As the Colorado football team awaits its bowl destination, Travis Hunter and Shedeur Sanders are piling up awards. On Thursday, Hunter was named the Big 12 defensive player of the year, while Sanders was named the Big 12 offensive player of the year, giving the 23rd-ranked Buffaloes (9-3, 7-2 Big 12; No. 20 AP) a sweep of the top two honors in the conference. The Big 12 honors were voted on by league coaches, who were not allowed to vote for their own players. This is the third time in CU history that the Buffs have had the conference offensive and defensive players of the year in the same season. In 1989, Darian Hagan (offense) and Alfred Williams (defense) were honored by the Big Eight; and in 1990, Eric Bieniemy (offense) and Williams (defense) were honored by the Big Eight. Sanders (quarterback), Hunter (cornerback and receiver) and BJ Green II (defensive line) all received first-team all-conference honors for the Buffs. Green was named the Big 12’s defensive newcomer of the year. Hunter, widely considered the front-runner for the Heisman Trophy, was the preseason choice for Big 12 defensive player of the year and he certainly didn’t disappoint. He led the Big 12 in passes defended with 15 (four interceptions, 11 passes broken up), despite rarely being targeted in coverage. He also has 31 tackles and had a game-sealing forced fumble in an overtime victory against Baylor. Hunter is just the seventh conference defensive player of the year from CU and only the second in the last 32 years (Jordan Dizon, Big 12 in 2007). The only full-time two-way player in college football, Hunter also received honorable mention for offensive player of the year honors. He leads the Big 12 in receptions (92) and receiving touchdowns (14) and is second in receiving yards (1,152). Sanders is the first CU quarterback to be named first-team all-conference since Koy Detmer in 1996. A senior, Sanders leads the Big 12 in completion percentage (74.2%), passing yards (3,926), touchdown passes (35) and quarterback rating (168.79). He’s also the only quarterback in the country who ranks top five nationally in those four categories. Sanders is the seventh conference offensive player of the year from CU and the second in the last five seasons, joining running back Jarek Broussard (Pac-12, 2020). A transfer from Arizona State, Green led the Buffs and is tied for second in the Big 12 with 7.5 sacks. He’s also third in the conference with a team-high 12 tackles for loss. He also has 30 tackles, a team-high 12 QB hurries and two forced fumbles, as well as a blocked kick. Green is the first Buff to receive conference newcomer of the year honors since Dizon in 2004 in the Big 12. Linebacker Nikhai Hill-Green earned second-team honors, after posting 82 tackles, 11.5 tackles for loss, two sacks and two interceptions. Eight other Buffs received honorable mention at the their positions: defensive backs Preston Hodge, DJ McKinney and Cam’Ron Silmon-Craig; defensive lineman Chidozie Nwankwo; offensive lineman Jordan Seaton; receiver LaJohntay Wester; kicker Alejandro Mata; and punter Mark Vassett. In addition, defensive end Taje McCoy received honorable mention for defensive freshman of the year; Nwankwo honorable mention for defensive lineman of the year; Seaton honorable mention for offensive freshman of the year; and Wester received honorable mention for offensive newcomer of the year. While CU took home the top player honors, Arizona State’s Kenny Dillingham was named the Big 12 coach of the year. The 15th-ranked Sun Devils (10-2, 7-2) were projected to finish last in the conference, but will play Iowa State in the Big 12 title game on Saturday. BYU kicker Will Ferrin and Iowa State returner Jaylin Noel were named the co-special teams players of the year. ASU receiver Jordyn Tyson, a transfer from CU, was named the offensive newcomer of the year, and Sun Devils QB Sam Leavitt was the offensive freshman of the year. West Virginia’s Josiah Trotter is the defensive freshman of the year and his teammate, Wyatt Milum, is the offensive lineman of the year. Kansas State’s Brendan Mott was named the defensive lineman of the year. Texas Tech running back Tahj Brooks and Kansas QB Jalon Daniels were named the scholar-athletes of the year. On Thursday, Sanders was named as one of 10 finalists for the Manning Award, which honors the top quarterback in the country. It is the only one of the three main quarterback awards to take bowl games into consideration, and the winner will be announced in January. ... According to 247Sports, CU defensive lineman Rayyan Buell is entering the transfer portal. A transfer from Ohio this year, Buell was limited to four games this year because of injury and finished with three tackles and a QB hurry.

December 27: A metaphor for sacrifice for the country and peopleMULGRAVE — With expanded services and a renewed commitment to community good works in the new year, Eastern Counties Regional Library (ECRL) is re-writing the rulebook on building relationships with the municipalities it serves, says its chief executive officer. “I think everybody is interested in doing better and more for the community,” Laura Emery told The Journal in a recent year-end interview. “I think the province has a real understanding of the reach of public libraries. Strengthening relations with [our] municipal partners [ensures] that we [bring] the best that we can to the community.” According to ECRL’s 2023-24 annual report, released last month, the signs are promising. In one year, the number of new users at its nine branches in Cape Breton and northeastern Nova Scotia communities – including Guysborough, Canso and Sherbrooke – has jumped by 871, which included 57 at the Cyril Ward Memorial Public Library in Guysborough town, 41 at the Canso Public Library and 89 at the Sherbrooke Public Library. As well, the report shows, circulation (books and other reading materials) was 16 per cent higher in all locations – to 95,000 units, from 80,000, in 2022-23. That included a 20 per cent increase in Guysborough alone – to 11,131 from 9,207. Meanwhile, branch hours increased to 14,227, from 13,041, system wide. Even more notable was the growth in the number of public library programs – to 328 from 164 – and their growing attendance – to 2,000 from just more than 1,000 between 2022-23 and 2023-24. Wrote ECRL board chair Clair Rankin in the annual report: “Increased in-person programming [provided] more opportunities for community members to engage and learn ... demonstrating the value of flexible learning options. Increasing partnerships and better supporting local library staff helped to make these changes happen. Clearly, working with the community and our municipal partners is the way foreword.” This hasn’t always been easy. The oldest and one of the largest regional library systems, by geographic area, in Nova Scotia – catering to more than 32,000 residents the counties of Guysborough, Inverness, and Richmond, as well as the Town of Port Hawkesbury – ECRL receives two-thirds of its roughly $1-million annual budget from the provincial government. It gets the rest from four municipal councils, with which it’s in regular contact but, historically, not always in agreement. One well-publicized dispute with the Municipality of the District of St. Mary’s council over funding, for example, actually went to provincial mediation in 2022. The issue was resolved in April of this year when both parties signed a memorandum of understanding to enhance collaboration and communications between them. “To create such a specific agreement with one of our partners and really formalize ways that we can always be working together, always be communicating and bringing the best to the community, is historic,” Emery told local media at the announcement in Mulgrave at the time. Today, she’s even more adamant about making things work collaboratively. “Positive actions organically lead to a more positive and encouraging environment,” she told The Journal. “I think we’re certainly heading in a good direction.” Much of that may have to do with the provincial government’s growing realization that at a time of rising costs and housing shortages, rural libraries in general and ECRL, in particular, have important roles to play in shoring up the social and even economic well being of their communities. Additional provincial funding – not related to core programming – is helping ECRL position itself as a community hub. Over the past year, Rankin noted in the annual report, “Eastern Counties Regional Library expanded its role in supporting community well-being. Special funding from the province [has] allow[ed] ECRL to give away menstrual products, diapers and incontinence pads to help with the increasing cost of living. We’ve been distributing COVID-19 test kits for a few years, so these new offerings easily fit into our library locations. Items are on display, and people can drop by and pick up what they or their family and friends need.” The library has also established seed banks at its branches and recently received a $42,000 contribution from the Department of Communities, Culture, Tourism, and Heritage to conduct strategic planning and community engagement on potential, new initiatives. “It is a tremendous example of how public libraries can do so much more to benefit the community if they have the funding,” Rankin concluded in his message. “My hope is this trend of special project funding will continue.” Certainly, ECRL’s efforts have not gone unnoticed among some of its municipal partners. At the Nov. 20 Municipality of the District of Guysborough regular council meeting, Councillor Mary Desmond (district #2) praised the “vibrancy” and “informative” content of this year’s annual report. Warden Paul Long added: “There seems to be a greater sense of cooperation and collegiality between the library and municipalities.” Said Emery: “I am very happy to hear that. I think provincial funding for community initiatives ... has demonstrated the additional value that a library can bring to a community. And, that’s probably helping with the positive perception of the Eastern Counties Regional Library. Things are starting to turn around and, you know ... that’s great.”

Robinson added five rebounds and seven assists for the Pride (7-3). Eric Parnell scored 19 points, shooting 6 for 7 (4 for 5 from 3-point range) and 3 of 3 from the free-throw line. Khalil Farmer shot 5 for 7 (3 for 4 from 3-point range) and 3 of 3 from the free-throw line to finish with 16 points. Alec Tabada finished with 14 points for the Golden Eagles. Robinson led Hofstra with 20 points in the first half to help put them up 53-27 at the break. Hofstra pulled away with a 26-3 run in the second half. Parnell led the way with a team-high 15 second-half points. The Associated Press created this story using technology provided by Data Skrive and data from Sportradar .China to help Pakistan in blue economy: PM

If your New Year’s resolution is to establish a wellness practice that promotes health from the inside and out or to cut down on in-office aesthetic treatments for glowing skin, now’s the time to purchase the premium tools to help get you started ahead of 2025. One of our favorite skincare and wellness brands LYMA is having a rare early Black Friday sale and we’ve never seen its products marked down so steeply. was founded by former fashion journalist and luxury publicist Lucy Goff after a postpartum septicemia (blood poisoning) diagnosis opened her eyes to a void in the wellness industry. Dr. Paul Clayton, an expert in preventative degenerative disease, introduced Goff to clinically dosed supplements, inspiring a collaboration. Together, they created , a high-grade nutraceutical made with ingredients like turmeric, ashwagandha, saffron, and vitamins D and K to improve sleep, reduce anxiety, enhance focus, and sharpen immunity. It was an instant success. Cut to 2024, and has solidified itself as a pioneer in the industry, with innovations engineered to keep its customers feeling, as well as looking their best. While still known for its supplements, the beauty brand has recently garnered a cult following for its and clinical-grade skincare. All LYMA products are backed by science and patented technology, and have been shown to reduce skin damage without the pain, downtime or a trip to the dermatologist. The is already live and will continue while supplies last. Its products are on sale for up to 30 percent off, and discounts will be applied at checkout. This is a once-annual opportunity, as LYMA does not discount its products any other time of year. In other words, take advantage while you can.Drop in Boxing Day footfall ‘signals return to declining pre-pandemic levels’My love of movie scoundrels has been sorely tested this year. When I was young, I daydreamed of exotic heists, slick con artists and lovable crooks I’d seen on screen. For most of my moviegoing life, I’ve been a sucker for larceny done well. Most of us are, probably. But now it’s late 2024. Mood is wrong. In the real world, in America, it’s scoundrel time all the time. Maybe Charles Dickens was right. In “American Notes for General Circulation” (1842), the English literary superstar chronicled his travels and detected a widespread, peculiarly American “love of ‘smart’ dealing” across the land. In business and in politics, Dickens observed, slavish admiration of the con men among them “gilds over many a swindle and gross breach of trust.” And here we are. It’ll pass, this scoundrel reprieve of mine. In fact it just did. All it took was thinking about the conspicuous, roguish outlier on my best-of-2024 list: “Challengers.” It’s what this year needed and didn’t know it: a tricky story of lying, duplicitous weasels on and off the court. The best films this year showed me things I hadn’t seen, following familiar character dynamics into fresh territory. Some were more visually distinctive than others; all made eloquent cases for how, and where, their stories unfolded. “All We Imagine as Light,” recently at the Gene Siskel Film Center, works like a poem, or a sustained exhalation of breath, in its simply designed narrative of three Mumbai hospital workers. Fluid, subtly political, filmmaker Payal Kapadia’s achievement is very nearly perfect. So is cowriter-director RaMell Ross’ adaptation of the Colson Whitehead novel “The Nickel Boys,” arriving in Chicago-area theaters on Jan. 3, 2025. “Nickel Boys,” the film, loses the “the” in Whitehead’s title but gains an astonishingly realized visual perspective. If Ross never makes another movie, he’ll have an American masterpiece to his credit. The following top 10 movies of 2024 are in alphabetical order. “All We Imagine as Light” Both a mosaic of urban ebb and flow, and a delicate revelation of character, director and writer Payal Kapadia’s Mumbai story is hypnotic, patient and in its more traditional story progression, a second feature every bit as good as Kapadia’s first, 2021’s “A Night of Knowing Nothing.” “Anora” Mikey Madison gives one of the year’s funniest, saddest, truest performances as a Brooklyn exotic dancer who takes a shine to the gangly son of a Russian oligarch, and he to her. Their transactional courtship and dizzying Vegas marriage, followed by violently escalating complications, add up to filmmaker Sean Baker’s triumph, capped by an ending full of exquisite mysteries of the human heart. “The Brutalist” As played by Adrien Brody, the title character is a visionary architect and Hungarian Jewish emigre arriving in America in 1947 after the Holocaust. (That said, the title refers to more than one character.) His patron, and his nemesis, is the Philadelphia blueblood industrialist played by Guy Pearce. Director/co-writer Brady Corbet’s thrillingly ambitious epic, imperfect but loaded with rewarding risks, was shot mostly in widescreen VistaVision. Worth seeing on the biggest screen you can find. Opens in Chicago-area theaters on Jan. 10, 2025. “Challengers” Zendaya, Mike Faist and Josh O’Connor play games with each other, on the tennis court and in beds, while director Luca Guadagnino builds to a match-point climax that can’t possibly work, and doesn’t quite — but I saw the thing twice anyway. “Do Not Expect Too Much From the End of the World” In Bucharest, production assistant Angela zigzags around the city interviewing people for her employer’s workplace safety video. If that sounds less than promising, even for a deadpan Romanian slice-of-life tragicomedy, go ahead and make the mistake of skipping this one. llinca Manolache is terrific as Angela. “Green Border” Like “Do Not Expect Too Much,” director Agnieszka Holland’s harrowing slice of recent history was a 2023 release, making it to Chicago in early 2024. Set along the densely forested Poland/Belarus border, this is a model of well-dramatized fiction honoring what refugees have always known: the fully justified, ever-present fear of the unknown. “Janet Planet” A quiet marvel of a feature debut from writer-director Annie Baker, this is a mother/daughter tale rich in ambiguities and wry humor, set in a lovely, slightly forlorn corner of rural Massachusetts. Julianne Nicholson, never better; Zoe Ziegler as young, hawk-eyed Lacy, equally memorable. “My Old Ass” I love this year’s nicest surprise. The premise: A teenager’s future 39-year-old self appears to her, magically, via a strong dose of mushrooms. The surprise: Writer-director Megan Park gradually deepens her scenario and sticks a powerfully emotional landing. Wonderful work from Aubrey Plaza, Maisy Stella, Maria Dizzia and everybody, really. “Nickel Boys” From the horrific true story of a Florida reform school and its decades of abuse, neglect and enraging injustice toward its Black residents, novelist Colson Whitehead’s fictionalized novel makes a remarkable jump to the screen thanks to co-writer/director RaMell Ross’s feature debut. “A Real Pain” Cousins, not as close as they once were, reunite for a Holocaust heritage tour in Poland and their own search for their late grandmother’s childhood home. They’re the rootless Benji (Kieran Culkin) and tightly sprung David (Jesse Eisenberg, who wrote and directed). Small but very sure, this movie’s themes of genocidal trauma and Jewish legacy support the narrative every step of the way. Culkin is marvelous; so is the perpetually undervalued Eisenberg. To the above, I’ll add 10 more runners-up, again in alphabetical order: “Blink Twice,” directed by Zoe Kravitz. “Conclave,” directed by Edward Berger. “Dune: Part Two ,” directed by Denis Villeneuve. “Good One ,” directed by India Donaldson. “Hit Man,” directed by Richard Linklater. “Joker: Folie a Deux,” directed by Todd Phillips. “Nosferatu,” directed by Robert Eggers, opens in Chicago-area theaters on Dec. 25. “The Outrun,” directed by Nora Fingscheidt. “Soundtrack to a Coup d’Etat,” directed by Johan Grimonprez. “Tuesday,” directed by Daina O. Pusić. Michael Phillips is a Tribune critic.