hydrangea magical ocean Decoding military trials It is essential to focus on judicial reforms to strengthen the country’s regular criminal justice system Army troops stand guard in the "red zone" after the arrest of former PM Imran Khan. — AFP/File Military tribunals have long been utilised to decide cases involving civilians in many nations, particularly during periods such as the First and Second World Wars, as well as across ancient, medieval, post-colonial, and contemporary eras. googletag.cmd.push(function() { googletag.display('div-gpt-ad-1700472799616-0'); }); Civilians are occasionally and under special circumstances subject to military laws in a number of countries, including Pakistan, Argentina, Israel, Turkey, Thailand, China, Indonesia, Kuwait, Sri Lanka, Mali, Lebanon, Malaysia, Russia, Iran, India, Cuba, Djibouti, Eritrea, Kenya, Bahrain, Chile, Peru, Mexico, Philippines, Syria, Yemen, Bangladesh, Iraq, and Saudi Arabia. However, these nations have distinct legal systems and procedures compared to Pakistan. Therefore, the phenomenon of military trials of civilians is not unique to Pakistan, especially when judicial oversight is provided against such sentences through the constitutional jurisdiction of the high courts and Supreme Court of Pakistan. The first laws establishing military tribunals to discipline Pakistani military personnel were the Pakistan Army Act of 1952, the Pakistan Air Force Act of 1953, and the Pakistan Navy Ordinance of 1961. Nonetheless, certain clauses and situations allow civilians to also fall under the purview of military law. The Defence Services Laws Amendment Ordinance, 1967 (3 of 1967), made significant changes to Sections 2(d)(1) and 2(d)(2) of the Pakistan Army Act and the Official Secrets Act, 1923. As a result, civilians accused of offences such as attempting to deceive military personnel out of their duties or committing crimes under the Official Secrets Act, 1923, in connection with defence establishments, arsenals, or military affairs, could be tried under military law. However, such trials require federal government authorisation under the Army Act of 1952, and military courts must rigorously follow the standard procedures outlined in the Criminal Procedure Code (CrPC) and the Qanun-e-Shahadat Order, 1984. In Brig (r) F B Ali’s case, the Supreme Court of Pakistan, for the first time, thoroughly examined the legality and constitutionality of civilian trials by military courts. It concluded that a civilian ordinarily subject to the nation’s ordinary laws could be tried by a military court if they committed a crime under the Official Secrets Act, 1923, and the Pakistan Army Act. The court carefully reviewed Ordinance No 3 of 1967 and the amendments made to the Pakistan Army Act, considering the fundamental rights protected under the constitution of Pakistan. It determined that such trials did not violate due process, the concept of a fair trial, or any fundamental rights granted under the constitution. In Mushtaq Ahmad v Secretary Ministry of Defence (PLD 2007 SC 405), the Supreme Court reaffirmed the principles established in the F B Ali case. The court held that if a civilian was found guilty of attempting to seduce or seducing a member of the Pakistani armed forces from their allegiance to the government or violating the Official Secrets Act, 1923, they would not be punished under Section 131 of the Pakistan Penal Code. Instead, they would be tried under the provisions of the Pakistan Army Act, 1952. The 21st Amendment, passed unanimously by the parliament of Pakistan in 2015 following the Army Public School attack, further reiterated the provisions for military trials of civilians under specific circumstances. This amendment, along with laws like the Protection of Pakistan Act, 2014, introduced significant changes to the Pakistan Army Act, Pakistan Air Force Act, and Pakistan Navy Ordinance to address exceptional situations related to terrorism and national security. The Supreme Court, in its majority verdict, upheld the constitutional validity of the 21st Amendment and related laws, ruling that parliament was within its rights to enact these provisions under Article 239 of the constitution. In the 1995 Sahida Abbasi case and later in Said Zaman Khan v Federation of Pakistan (2017 SCMR 1249), the Supreme Court reiterated that civilians who engage in acts against the Pakistan Army, such as participating in attacks, could be tried under the Pakistan Army Act due to the provisions of Section 59(4). The court declared that the Army Act could apply to civilians under specific circumstances and noted that the fundamental right to a fair trial under Article 10-A of the constitution was not violated by such trials. In its 2015 judgment on the 21st Amendment, the court further emphasised that civilian trials in military courts did not contravene Article 10-A or other constitutional rights. Since 1972, the military courts in Pakistan have tried 1875 civilians on commission of offences under the Pakistan Army Act and the Official Secrets Act. Of those, 180 civilians were tried by the military courts from 2018 to 2022 during the PTI government’s tenure. Many of these convictions have been challenged before the superior courts, and some cases remain pending. However, neither parliament nor the Supreme Court has revoked or struck down the 1967 amendments to the Pakistan Army Act. The Supreme Court’s October 23, 2023, judgment regarding these amendments was suspended by its appellate bench in December 2023, leaving the amendments intact. It is noteworthy that the trial of civilians by military courts on violations of military laws has rarely been a subject of controversy in Pakistan since 1975. Political parties and their leaders have often supported such trials in military courts when necessary. No foreign government has previously raised concerns about these military trials under the Pakistan Army Act, 1952. After a Field General Court Martial (FGCM) issues a judgment, the accused has the right to appeal under the Pakistan Army Act. Aggrieved individuals can then challenge the sentence before the high court under Article 199 of the constitution and subsequently before the Supreme Court under Article 185. A final review can be sought under Article 188 of the constitution. While the existing legal framework allows for the trial of civilians under military laws, there is an urgent need for judicial reforms to strengthen the regular criminal justice system. Recent statements by the US, EU and the UK’s Foreign Office criticising the military trials of civilians in Pakistan, particularly after the announcement of sentences for 25 individuals following the Supreme Court’s December 13, 2024, order, appear to be unwarranted. These remarks seem to be aimed at public optics and constitute interference in Pakistan’s internal affairs. Pakistan’s constitution and laws have permitted such trials since 1967. The Supreme Court of Pakistan, in its 1975 judgment and subsequent rulings, has thoroughly examined and addressed these concerns. It consistently held that military trials of civilians under the Pakistan Army Act, 1952, and the Official Secrets Act, 1923, are not violations of fundamental rights, due process, or transparency, nor do they contravene the concept of a fair trial. The Supreme Court of Pakistan serves as the ultimate arbiter in the country’s constitutional and judicial system. The issue of civilian trials by military courts is still pending before the Supreme Court, with a final verdict expected in January 2025. This decision will address all constitutional and legal aspects and will be binding on all state institutions. Premature statements criticising these trials, while the matter remains sub judice, are unwarranted. Any sentences recently announced by military courts will also be subject to the Supreme Court’s final decision. While Pakistan’s legal framework permits civilian trials under military laws in specific circumstances, it is essential to focus on judicial reforms to strengthen the country’s regular criminal justice system. Such reforms would ensure the efficient and transparent administration of justice while maintaining public confidence in rule of law. The writer is a practising advocate of the Supreme Court of Pakistan with 25 years of legal standing. He can be reached at: hafizahsaan47@gmail.comHave you heard the one about the batter selected by England for Test cricket despite not yet scoring a first-class hundred and with a career average of just 25? That sounds like the start of a corny joke but a raft of players who have churned out runs in county cricket may not find it very funny. Keaton Jennings, Haseeb Hameed, Alex Davies and James Vince, to name but four, were overlooked when England needed batting cover for the tour of New Zealand following Jamie Smith's decision to skip the trip for the birth of his first child. Jacob Bethell's first-class stats Jacob Bethell was picked instead and will debut in the first Test in Christchurch from Thursday following wicketkeeper Jordan Cox's tour-ending fractured thumb. Ollie Pope will take the gloves, with Bethell coming in at three to get a chance to prove his first-class numbers are no indication of his skill. As going by those, this is a rogue selection, even for England. Trending While they have plumped for bowlers with little or limited first-class experience - Josh Hull and Shoaib Bashir being the prime examples - the batters selected have had a weight of red-ball runs behind them, in addition to the attacking verve Bazball adores. Ben Duckett averaged over 70 for Nottinghamshire in the summer before his Test recall. Harry Brook was peeling off runs for fun for Yorkshire prior to his Test bow. Smith averaged in excess of 50 before he became England's wicketkeeper-batter. Also See: New Zealand vs England homepage All today's cricket scorecards Listen to the Sky Sports Cricket Podcast What cricket is live on Sky and when? Bethell's 2024 red-ball season for Warwickshire saw him average a lick over 31 with four fifties and a best of 93. You have to feel for his Bears team-mate Davies, who scored his 1,115 runs - which included four centuries - at 50.68 and at a decent strike-rate of 61.97 to boot. But perhaps we should not be too surprised at Bethell's inclusion as 1) England management appear to have a disconnect with the county set-up these days and 2) the 21-year-old may just be a generational talent, showing glimpses of that in white-ball cricket over the last few months, internationally and domestically. Bethell England's latest rough diamond? Speaking ahead of left-arm seamer Hull's Test debut against Sri Lanka this summer, England head coach Brendon McCullum said: "We need to identify that county cricket and Test cricket are probably slightly different games. "If we were picking a county side, it would look a little different to what it looks like on the Test side. The decisions that they make might not always line up with us and that's cool. We don't do stuff in spite of them, we understand they have a different job to do. "We're bringing some of these guys who we see as rough diamonds with incredibly high ceilings, into an environment where we're able to shape them, and give them the opportunities and hasten the process of them getting to the level that we think they can get to." Bethell certainly looks a rough diamond. And rough may be being unkind, because he hasn't half sparkled of late. A 15-ball Vitality Blast fifty for Birmingham Bears - one of four half-centuries he struck in that competition - came amid a haul of 361 runs, and he also impressed in The Hundred for Birmingham Phoenix. Bethell made his England T20I and ODI debuts against Australia in September, notably spanking Adam Zampa for four boundaries in a row in his second T20 to help his side to victory. He then enjoyed a homecoming in the West Indies - Bethell was born in Barbados and lived there for his first 14 years - with three fifties across the white-ball tour, one in the ODI leg and two in the T20s. His first T20I fifty made him the youngest to that milestone for England in the format, his second was a 22-ball effort clinched with the third of three successive sixes. 'All the attributes are there with Bethell' In the five-match series, his strike rate was 173.97 and his average, due to only being dismissed once, stood at 127. The power and crispness with which Bethell hits the ball and the quality with which he flashes away late cuts makes him stand out. He has presence at the crease, looking like the sort of guy that could take down Australia in Australia, which is what this England rebuild - one that has seen Ben Foakes, Jonny Bairstow and the bowling Ollie Robinson jettisoned and James Anderson retired - is all about. India may have made light work of the Baggy Greens in Perth this week but England have not won a Test in Australia since a series victory there in 2010/11, when Bethell was seven. Their record in the intervening years reads played 15, lost 13, drawn two. Bethell's batting has caught the eye but he is also a decent left-arm spinner and outstanding fielder, handing England an all-round package that they may come to rely on for years. Marcus Trescothick, who led England in the Caribbean as his interim spell as white-ball coach concluded, said of Bethell. "All the attributes are there. If you have markers to be able to go 'right, you need to do this, this and this', he'd be knocking on the door for that. "There's no reason why he can't break through and succeed because he's flourished in both (white-ball) formats. If he was to get an opportunity, it would be exciting to see what he can do. "You could almost see him breaking through as being the next youngster after Harry Brook - the real exciting one coming through for the next journey they're going to take." England's Test tour of New Zealand

99-yard kick-off return stuns NFLTwo teams aiming to secure playoff berths meet when the Atlanta Falcons visit the Washington Commanders on Sunday night in Landover, Md. The Falcons (8-7) can clinch the NFC South with a win over the Commanders and a loss by the Tampa Bay Buccaneers (8-7) against the visiting Carolina Panthers. The Commanders (10-5) can clinch a wild-card spot - their first playoff berth since 2020 - before they play if the Panthers beat the Buccaneers on Sunday afternoon. If Tampa Bay wins, Washington can clinch with a win over Atlanta. Atlanta is searching for its third straight victory while Washington has won three in a row and could get to 11 wins for the first time since 1991. According to NBC Sports, Sunday night will be the first time in NFL history that two first-round rookie quarterbacks will start in a primetime game as Washington's Jayden Daniels opposes Atlanta's Michael Penix Jr. Daniels was the No. 2 overall pick in the 2024 NFL Draft, six selections before Penix. Penix will make his second career start after replacing Kirk Cousins last week. He completed 18 of 27 passes (66.7 percent) for 202 yards with an interception and led the Falcons to four scoring drives in a 34-7 home win against the New York Giants. "Me and Mike are boys," Daniels said this week. "Obviously, we trained together. We went through the draft process together, so we built the relationship over that time, and I'm happy for him, you know, he waited his time. He's a phenomenal player in my eyes and, you know, I'm excited to be able to match up against him." After several drops and missed throws against the Giants, the Falcons were looking forward to another week of practice with Penix. "I mean, it takes a lot of reps," Penix said. "That's the biggest thing. Just getting those reps in practice, as many live reps as we can -- and we did a lot of reps this past week. We're going to continue to grow.' Daniels is coming off a five-touchdown performance, including the game-winner with six seconds remaining, to lead Washington to an upset win over the visiting Philadelphia Eagles. He passed for 258 yards and ran for 81 more. The Falcons realize the danger presented by Daniels' running ability, as he has rushed for a team-high 737 yards along with six touchdowns. Washington entered Week 17 third in rushing (152.7 yards per game) and 16th in passing (220.9 yards per game). "It adds an extra gap up front. Now, you have to make sure you get up there to make sure you stop that gap," Falcons defensive coordinator Jimmy Lake said. "And now, you get too many guys up there, here comes the play-action pass and you leave your guys in the back end open. So, it's going to be a chess match all night long." Daniels has completed nearly 70 percent of his passes (301 of 432) for 3,303 yards with 22 touchdowns and eight interceptions. Both teams saw their leading receivers on the injury report Thursday. Atlanta's Drake London (83 catches, 978 yards, seven touchdowns) was limited because of knee injury but told reporters he will be good to go on Sunday. Washington's Terry McLaurin (73 catches, 1,029 yards, 12 touchdowns) was limited with an ankle injury after sitting out practice Wednesday. Atlanta cornerbacks Kevin King (concussion) and Antonio Hamilton Sr. (quad) did not participate in Thursday's practice. Commanders defensive tackle Jonathan Allen (pectoral) was a full participant and could be activated from injured reserve to play Sunday. Washington cornerback Marshon Lattimore (hamstring) remained out of practice Thursday along with wide receiver Dyami Brown (hamstring), linebacker Jordan Magee (hamstring), safety Tyler Owens (ankle) and tackle Andrew Wylie (groin). Defensive end Clelin Ferrell (knee) was limited after not practicing Wednesday. --Field Level Media

Final Fantasy VII Rebirth will not be getting DLC, says directorViral video of seat-tearing man proved communal misinformationLast year, Donald Trump Jr.’s longtime fiancee Kimberly Guilfoyle was his proud date to Donald Trump’s annual Christmas celebration at Mar-a-Lago. This year, Guilfoyle was replaced at the Mar-a-Lago holiday festivities by Trump Jr.’s new girlfriend, Palm Beach socialite Bettina Anderson, the Daily Mail reported . Unfortunately for the new lovers, some Trump family allies and insiders are not happy about Anderson’s quick ascension into the family orbit, the Daily Mail also is reporting. The 37-year-old model and influencer was photographed seated next to Trump Jr. at the Christmas Eve dinner table, near the president-elect and his wife Melania Trump. Ivanka Trump, her husband Jared Kushner and their three children also attended the Christmas Eve dinner, Page Six reported . Some of the allies and insiders have told the Daily Mail that Anderson “isn’t MAGA enough,” while two friends of Trump Jr. expressed concern that she’s essentially a shallow influencer and “social climber” who is using Trump’s oldest son to snag an even wealthier and more powerful romantic target — someone like billionaire Elon Musk. “It’s one thing to worry about Palm Beach shenanigans making a stop at Mar-a-Lago,” a source close to the Trump transition team told the Daily Mail. “But to let those problems penetrate the White House is a new level of trouble.” The source appears to be referring to what the Daily Mail said was an “open secret” simmering in Palm Beach circles in the late summer and fall — how 46-year-old Trump Jr. had begun “fooling around” with the younger, Anderson, even while he was still engaged to 55-year-old Guilfoyle, a MAGA firebrand and top Trump campaign fundraiser. Rumors about Trump Jr.’s dalliance with Anderson began in September when images emerged of the couple kissing and cuddling while dining at a restaurant near Mar-a-Lago. Earlier this month, Trump Jr.’s relationship with the 37-year-old Anderson gained public recognition, after Trump announced that he was nominating Guilfoyle to be his ambassador to Greece. Guilfoyle’s nomination was seen by some political observers as a way that Trump could reward the former Fox News host for her political loyalty, while nudging her out of his “immediate sphere” and sending her off to Europe so that his son could openly pursue his new relationship with Anderson. At the time, sources close to Trump Jr. told People that he had became tired of his six-year relationship with Guilfoyle , the former first lady of San Francisco and ex-wife of California Gov. Gavin Newsom-turned Trump loyalist. For one thing, Trump Jr. didn’t like Guilfoyle’s “style,” including her “tight dresses.” He felt that Anderson, with her honey-blonde hair and “Waspy” model looks, would “impress” his father and perhaps make her a more ideal romantic partner. “Don Jr. has always wanted to look good in his father’s eyes,” the political source told People. Apparently, Anderson’s more natural, fun-loving style also was more to Trump Jr.’s taste these days, especially as he saw that she could become his “own Melania Trump equivalent,” a source told People. “She is a party girl, and outgoing, and Don is smitten with her,” a Palm Beach source told People. “Bettina is smart, sexy and savvy and knows it. She likes to have fun,” another source added. “Who knows what, if anything, will come from this.” Trump family members also got tired of Guilfoyle’s attention-seeking ways. Sources told People and the Daily Mail that they expected that Guilfoyle knew about Trump Jr.’s affair with Anderson, but chose “to look the other way because she loves the power and lifestyle.” Once Trump Jr. felt he could shed his public association with Guilfoyle, he began to “flaunt” his romance with Anderson, being photographed holding hands with her during a dinner date with her in Palm Beach in December, the Daily Mail reported. After Trump announced that he wanted to send Guilfoyle to Greece, Trump Jr. and Anderson jetted off to Italy for a romantic getaway, the Daily Mail reported. Anderson also publicly posted photos of love letters and flowers sent to her from Trump Jr., and openly documented their European vacation. Someone described as a “close, personal friend” of Trump Jr. told the Daily Mail that he wasn’t concerned about Anderson. He said he expected there would “be gossip and trash talking, just because that’s kind of the world of Palm Beach and, you know, the universe they live in.” If Trump Jr. has heard any concerns about Anderson, he hasn’t let this friend know, according to the Daily Mail. Stacey Bendet, a fashion designer and close friend of Anderson’s, expressed dismay that her friend had become the target of social-climber rumors. “I have been friends with Bettina for a decade, she is the kindest soul, she has the biggest heart, she is witty and wise, hilariously funny, and an Ivy League grad — anyone who says a word otherwise is just another societal example of women fixating on competing verse empowering,” said Bendet, CEO of Alice + Olivia, in a text to the Daily Mail. Anderson has been seen at Alice + Olivia events over the years, the Daily Mail reported. Bendet added in her text: “Don adores her for good reasons!” However, some Trump family allies feel very differently about Anderson and are “doing everything they can” do to get Trump Jr. to end their relationship, the Daily Mail reported. Someone who worked for the Trump campaign the last five years told the Daily Mail that Trump Jr. is “slowly” starting to “wake up” to how Anderson is perceived in MAGA circles. Allies question her MAGA loyalty because of her previous support for the Black Lives Matters movement and her adherence to COVID-19 lockdown rules, the Daily Mail reported. But they also wonder about her “notorious party girl reputation in Palm Beach,” which they think somehow isn’t “highbrow enough” to be associated with the Trump family, the Daily Mail also said. Someone who works in the modeling business and who has known Anderson for years speculated to the Daily Mail that she’s using Trump Jr. as a stepping stone and would prefer to date someone like Musk. People who’ve known Anderson in Palm Beach also told the Daily Mail that she regularly dates wealthy older men. Even though Musk already is the world’s richest man, he stands to gain even more power in the incoming Trump administration, according to critics of both Musk and Trump. These critics note that the billionaire SpaceX founder donated at least a quarter of a billion dollars to support Trump’s campaign, and he’s been rewarded by becoming a regular presence at Trump’s side since his Nov. 5 victory. Musk now is on tap to lead the new DOGE agency, whose purported mission is to drastically reduce federal government spending and “waste.”

A flag-raising ceremony and proclamation were held Monday to mark the start of 16 Days of Activism to End Gender-Based Violence, HIV Awareness Week and also the International Day for the Elimination of Violence Against Women. The event was hosted at city hall by two local non-profit groupss, Réseau ACCESS Network and YWCA Sudbury. It featured a speech from Mayor Paul Lefebvre, who spoke about the collective commitment to raising awareness of HIV. Marvelous Muchenje, a person living with HIV, also shared her perspective on the impact these systemic issues have on women. The Wrapped in Courage campaign runs throughout the month of November, with a flag raised at the start of the 16 Days of Activism on November 25th. (Rajpreet Sahota/CBC) Muchenje, originally from Zimbabwe, said the event serves as a reminder of the work still needed to address these issues, particularly in marginalized and immigrant communities. "When people like myself come and talk and people who might not have seen someone else living with HIV, they will see and say oh, I can survive this," said Muchenje. "I've always said to people when I see the word HIV to me, the 'H' stands for hope, the 'I' stands for is and the 'V' stands for vital." HIV support groups struggle for funding as transmission rates rise in Manitoba She stressed the importance of addressing these issues, noting that they often lead to complex challenges, including difficulties accessing healthcare and support services. "I've had experiences where when you go to the hospital, some people even wear two gloves when they want to do blood work or they want to touch you... the moment you say that you are HIV positive, some dentists do not even take you. I would expect that people in the hospital will know that they can use any universal precaution that they used for everyone else," said Muchenje. Mayor Paul Lefebvre spoke on the collective commitment to raising awareness about HIV. (Rajpreet Sahota/CBC) HIV Awareness Week is observed annually during the last week of November, leading up to December 1, which marks World AIDS Day—a global initiative to honour those living with HIV and those who have passed away. Heidi Eisenhauer, executive director of Réseau ACCESS Network, said the focus of the week is to educate people about HIV prevention, testing pathways and advancements in treatment. "We have the ability to live long, healthy lives. But the importance of prevention is knowing your status. Once you know your status, then you can make those choices for your own healthcare and wellness," said Eisenhauer. The event was also designed to show solidarity for the 16 Days of Activism, a campaign aimed at supporting women survivors of gender-based violence. Marvelous Muchenje spoke about the impact these systemic issues have on women who struggle with HIV and GBV, particularly newcomers. (Rajpreet Sahota/CBC) Marlene Gorman, executive director of YWCA Sudbury, said the non-profit group will also launch a social media campaign to advocate for action from provincial and federal governments. "We need to increase our housing stock. We need safe, affordable housing somewhere for women currently living in emergency shelters for gender-based violence, somewhere that they have to move to. Their stay is longer because we're a bottleneck and there's nowhere for them to go," said Gorman. According to the two non-profits, HIV and gender-based violence are interconnected. Gender-based violence increases women's vulnerability to HIV through forced sex, lack of control and limited access to prevention. HIV-positive individuals, particularly women, may face more violence due to stigma and power imbalances. A purple flag with the words "End All Gender-Based Violence" was raised outside city hall, and will remain until December 10th.

Broncos waive Greg Dulcich

Michael Carrick felt weather had big impact in Middlesbrough’s draw at BurnleyJaylon Johnson isn't interested in bright spots with the Bears' skid at 5 games

Basketball season is here. Subscribe to the DRC for $1 a month over the next six months to follow all that transpires with North Texas and area high schools. North Texas saw its losing streak hit five last week, when the Mean Green fell to East Carolina. UNT got off to a great start before collapsing in the second half of a 40-28 loss. The Mean Green gave up 31 straight points after taking a 21-0 lead. The loss dropped UNT to 5-6 on the season heading into a game at Temple on Saturday. It shapes up to be one of the more consequential games in recent program history. The Mean Green are 5-6 and have fallen toward the bottom of the American Athletic Conference standings at 2-5. A win over the Owls would make UNT bowl eligible for the first time in two seasons under Eric Morris. A loss would send the Mean Green into the offseason on their longest slide since losing six straight in 2021. Before we turn our attention to UNT’s showdown with Temple, it’s time for What We Learned, our weekly look back at the Mean Green’s last game and where the team stands. No quit in this team! 🏴‍☠️ pic.twitter.com/5DldLdl0ig The Mean Green were hoping a switch at defensive coordinator would spark a turnaround in the final two weeks of the regular season. UNT coach Eric Morris fired Matt Caponi and elevated linebackers coach Brian Odom to replace him on an interim basis following a loss to UTSA on Nov. 15. The Mean Green had allowed at least 45 points three times in what was a four-game losing streak at that point. UNT showed some signs of improvement under Odom. “Our guys had a spark, were energized and inspired,” Morris said. That energy didn’t make a big enough difference when it came to the bottom line. UNT played well early and allowed just seven points in the first half. ECU broke free with 33 points after the break. UNT has struggled to stop the run all year, an issue Morris has pointed to repeatedly. The Mean Green were allowing 201.4 yards per game heading into the day. UNT didn’t fare any better against ECU and allowed 255 yards and three touchdowns. The Pirates scored the second touchdown during their 31-0 run when UNT seemingly had Rahjai Harris stopped near the line of scrimmage. He wiggled free from a scrum with the help of offensive lineman Jimarion McCrimon and raced 39 yards to the end zone. “We were amped up early,” defensive lineman Terrell Dawkins said. “We couldn’t finish it out.” If there is anything Chandler Morris has shown during his winding college career, it’s that he’s tough both physically and mentally. Those traits helped him during his journey from Oklahoma to TCU and finally UNT. He’s dealt with a series of injuries while adjusting to new teams and coaches along the way. The former Highland Park standout displayed those abilities again after a tough couple of weeks. Morris threw four interceptions and just one touchdown over the course of two games heading into UNT’s game at ECU. He bounced back in a big way while throwing for 266 yards and three touchdowns with no interceptions against the Pirates. Morris also rushed for 39 yards. Morris’ stat line would have been even better had it not been for a few drops by UNT’s receivers. “Chandler played well enough and made some nice throws,” Eric Morris said. “We had some drive-killers where we didn’t catch the football.” No team in the country has attempted to convert on fourth down more than UNT, which has gone for it 41 times. The Mean Green have benefited plenty of times from the approach. UNT converted all four of its attempts in a win over Wyoming early in the season. Those conversions helped extend three scoring drives that helped the Mean Green roll to a 44-17 win. UNT has converted just one of its last nine attempts over the course of its last two games and didn’t cash in on any of its four tries against ECU. The Mean Green went for it on fourth-and-1 from their own 46 in the third quarter. Makenzie McGill II was stuffed for a 1-yard loss. ECU cashed in with a field goal. Success! An email has been sent to with a link to confirm list signup. Error! There was an error processing your request.New Orleans Pelicans could be getting some injury relief as soon as Friday's game

NowThis laid off about half its unionized newsroom, marking the second deep round of cuts this year. The layoffs affected 13 of NowThis' 21 WGA East members. A decline in advertising has led to widespread media layoffs in recent years. NowThis recently laid off about half its unionized newsroom, the second round of deep cuts this year at the progressive digital news outlet. Thirteen of NowThis' 21 members of WGA East, which represents the newsroom, were impacted, a union representative told Business Insider. Laid-off staffers were notified on November 15. Three people on the sales side also were let go recently, a person close to NowThis said. They asked for anonymity because they weren't authorized to speak publicly about the cuts. Their identity is known to BI. A spokesperson for NowThis confirmed the layoffs to BI and said the company remained committed to making "impactful content." In September, NowThis hired a new editor-in-chief, Michael Vito Valentino, formerly of Fallen Media and MTV, as it looked to shift focus to Gen-Z audiences. NowThis was once a fast-growing digital news outlet aimed at young consumers that soared in popularity by making short-form, text-on-screen videos that it amplified on social media. It joined Vox Media through Vox's 2021 acquisition of Group Nine Media. Vox spun NowThis off in 2023 through a deal with Accelerate Change, a nonprofit focused on promoting civic engagement among underrepresented groups. Vox retained a minority stake in the company and has an arrangement to sell advertising for NowThis . A Vox Media spokesperson referred a request for comment to NowThis. At the time of the spinoff, the plan was for NowThis to ramp up to cover the 2024 election. Accelerate Change is backed by progressive organizations such as the Open Society Foundations , which was founded by George Soros, the billionaire investor and major Democratic political donor. It also backs other news outlets, including ParentsTogether, PushBlack, Pulso, and Noticias Para Inmigrantes. The earlier round of layoffs at NowThis, in February, curtailed some of the company's coverage ambitions, though. That round impacted 26 of its 50 members of WGA East. At the time, the company said the reduction was meant to ensure the business was sustainable and that no more cuts were planned. Many news media outlets have been hit by layoffs in recent years amid a general pullback in advertising spending. Outplacement firm Challenger, Gray & Christmas tracked 3,402 job cuts in news so far this year through September, up 40% from 2,423 cuts during the year-earlier period.

The Founder of the MOK Foundation, Quantity Surveyor Muyideen Okunlola Kayode, has enjoined the three tiers of government in Nigeria to strengthen collaboration with private individuals and organisations involved in grassroots philanthropy to address the socio-economic challenges the nation is grappling with. Kayode made this call while delivering a keynote address at the Strategic Media Seminar organised by the Nigeria Union of Journalists (NUJ), Sobi FM Chapel, on Friday in Ilorin, the Kwara State capital. He noted that, while government-driven social investment programmes such as the National Social Investment Programme (NSIP) have been instrumental in supporting a huge vulnerable population, significant gaps still remain, leaving many underserved. He said: “Despite Nigeria being Africa’s largest economy, we still grapple with poverty, inequality, and social injustice. “Government programmes, though well-intentioned, cannot sufficiently cater to the needs of all vulnerable groups. This is where private grassroots philanthropy becomes essential.” Kayode, who said that grassroots philanthropic voluntary contributions from individuals and organisations had been filling the void left by government programmes, lamented that the lack of synergy between government initiatives and private efforts often leads to inefficiencies and duplications. The Keynote Speaker, however, emphasised the critical role of the media in bridging these gaps, urging journalists to amplify the needs of underserved populations, facilitate collaboration between stakeholders, and hold both government and private philanthropists accountable. “The media has a watchdog role that ensures transparency and effectiveness in social investment programmes. By fostering public awareness and facilitating dialogue among stakeholders, the media can create a platform for impactful collaborations,” he stated. Kayode, who revealed how his MOK Foundation has assisted over 29,000 people in Kwara State over the past 18 months, said his foundation has leveraged local and mainstream media platforms to publicise its activities, ensuring that the public remains informed and engaged. “The MOK Foundation was born out of a desire to alleviate the financial burdens of individuals and groups. The media has been instrumental in amplifying our efforts, and we look forward to a sustained partnership with media strategists,” he said. Kayode urged the government to actively engage with private philanthropists to develop coordinated frameworks that maximise impact, said “collaboration between government programmes and grassroots philanthropists will reduce duplication and inefficiencies, creating a more just and equitable society”. He called on all stakeholders, including the media, to play their roles in creating a society where no one is left behind. “Together, we can bridge the gap between government programmes and private philanthropic gestures for the collective good of Nigerians,” he added.

US homelessness up 18% as affordable housing remains out of reach for many people Federal officials say the United States saw an 18.1% increase in homelessness, a dramatic rise driven mostly by a lack of affordable housing as well as devastating natural disasters and a surge of migrants in several parts of the country. The U.S. Department of Housing and Urban Development said that federally required tallies taken across the country in January found that more than 770,000 people were counted as homeless. That increase comes on top of a 12% increase in 2023, which HUD blamed on soaring rents and the end of pandemic assistance. Among the most concerning trends was a nearly 40% rise in family homelessness. An online debate over foreign workers in tech shows tensions in Trump's political coalition WEST PALM BEACH, Fla. (AP) — An online spat between factions of Donald Trump’s supporters over immigration and the tech industry has thrown internal divisions in the president-elect’s political movement into public display. The argument previews fissures and contradictory views his coalition could bring to the White House. The rift laid bare tensions between the newest flank of Trump’s movement — that is, wealthy members of the tech world who want more highly skilled workers in their industry — and people in Trump’s Make America Great Again base who championed his hardline immigration policies. A 9th telecoms firm has been hit by a massive Chinese espionage campaign, the White House says WASHINGTON (AP) — A top White House official says a ninth U.S. telecoms firm has been confirmed to have been hacked as part of a sprawling Chinese espionage campaign that gave officials in Beijing access to private texts and phone conversations of an unknown number of Americans. Administration officials said this month that at least eight telecommunications companies, as well as dozens of nations, had been affected by the Chinese hacking blitz known as Salt Typhoon. But Anne Neuberger, a deputy national security adviser, said Friday that a ninth victim had been identified after the administration released guidance to companies about how to hunt for Chinese culprits in their networks. Israeli troops burn northern Gaza hospital after forcibly removing staff and patients, officials say DEIR AL-BALAH, Gaza Strip (AP) — Gaza's Health Ministry says Israeli troops have stormed one of the last hospitals operating in the territory's north on Friday and forced many of the staff and patients outside. Then they had to remove their clothes in winter weather. It was the latest assault on Kamal Adwan Hospital. Parts of it were set on fire. Staff say it has been hit multiple times in the past three months by Israeli troops waging an offensive against Hamas fighters in surrounding neighborhoods. Israel's military says Hamas uses the hospital as a base. It did not provide evidence, and hospital officials have denied it. Azerbaijani and U.S. officials suggest plane that crashed may have been hit by weapons fire U.S. and Azerbaijani officials have said weapons fire may have brought down an Azerbaijani airliner that crashed on Wednesday, killing 38 people. The statements from Rashad Nabiyev and White House national security spokesman John Kirby on Friday raised pressure on Russia. Officials in Moscow have said a drone attack was underway in the region that the Azerbaijan Airlines flight was destined for but have not addressed statements from aviation experts who blamed the crash on Russian air defenses responding to a Ukrainian attack. The plane was flying from Azerbaijan’s capital of Baku to Chechnya on Wednesday when it crashed, killing 38 people and leaving all 29 survivors injured. Court rules Georgia lawmakers can subpoena Fani Willis for information related to her Trump case ATLANTA (AP) — A judge has ruled that the Georgia state Senate can subpoena Fulton County District Attorney Fani Willis. It's part of a inquiry into whether Willis has engaged in misconduct during her prosecution of President-elect Donald Trump. But Fulton County Superior Court Judge Shukura Ingram is giving Willis the chance to contest whether lawmakers’ demands are overly broad before Willis responds. A Republican-led committee was formed earlier this year and sent subpoenas to Willis in August seeking to compel her to testify during its September meeting and to produce scores of documents. Willis argued that the committee didn’t have the power to subpoena her. In states that ban abortion, social safety net programs often fail families MEMPHIS, Tenn. (AP) — Tennessee has a nearly total abortion ban and a porous safety net for mothers and young children. GOP state leaders in Tennessee and other states that banned abortion after the U.S. Supreme Court overturned Roe v. Wade in 2022 argue that they are bolstering services for families. Recent research and an analysis by The Associated Press has found that from the time a Tennessee woman gets pregnant, she faces greater obstacles to a healthy pregnancy, a healthy child and a financially stable family life than the average American mom. Maryland sues maker of Gore-Tex over pollution from toxic 'forever chemicals' Maryland is suing the company that produces the waterproof material Gore-Tex. State officials say the company's leaders kept using so-called “forever chemicals” long after learning about serious health risks. The federal complaint alleges Delaware-based W.L. Gore & Associates polluted the air and water around 13 facilities in northeastern Maryland with chemicals that have been linked to certain cancers, reproductive issues and high cholesterol. They’re nearly indestructible and can build up in various environments, including the human body. The company stopped using the harmful chemicals in 2014 and says it’s working with state regulators on testing and cleanup efforts. Man indicted in burning death of woman inside a New York City subway train, prosecutors say NEW YORK (AP) — The man accused of burning a woman to death inside a New York City subway train has been indicted on state charges. A prosecutor announced Sebastian Zapeta’s indictment at a court hearing Friday. The development comes days after Zapeta’s arrest and subsequent police questioning in which they say he identified himself in photos and surveillance video showing the fire being lit. The indictment will be under seal until Jan. 7. He remains jailed. Federal immigration officials say the 33-year-old Zapeta is from Guatemala and entered the U.S. illegally. Authorities are continuing to work to identify the victim. Alex Ovechkin is on track to break Wayne Gretzky's NHL career goals record Alex Ovechkin of the Washington Capitals is chasing the NHL career goals record of 894 held by Wayne Gretzky. Ovechkin entered the season 42 goals short of breaking a record that long seemed unapproachable. He is set to play again Saturday at the Toronto Maple Leafs after missing more than a month with a broken left fibula. Ovechkin was on pace to get to 895 sometime in February before getting injured. At 868, he his 27 goals away from passing Gretzky.

Growing up on a tropical island means being able to catch and harvest your own food, and for Nornie Bero, it is these practices, closely tied to culture and community, which inspired a culinary career. or signup to continue reading Bero is from the Komet tribe of the Meriam people on Mer Island and said her family instilled her love of food when she was a child. "My dad made half of our house into a tuck shop and he used to make pumpkin dampers and pumpkin buns and make fish burgers and stuff to keep the lights on for us, to get money for the generators," she said. "When you grow up in a a family on an island you've got so many aunties and uncles that are hunting and gathering all the time and food is a big conversation in island households. "It's always been part of my life and I've always loved the traditional foods that I grew up with." The celebrated chef founded native food business Mabu Mabu, and flagship restaurant Big Esso in Melbourne with plans to expand to Sydney. "I love being Australian because we have our own flavour here, we just don't utilise it to the best that we can," Bero said. "We're such a multicultural country and we have so many different cuisines here so I'm just putting island cuisine on the map too and showcasing Australian food that comes out of the soil." Her mission to put the foods of her childhood on the map has taken her back to her home, where she recently filmed a cooking show, Island Echoes with Nornie Bero. As host, Bero travels across the Torres Strait, meeting with local community members, showcasing the landscape, making traditional foods and sharing the stories behind them. "It was so nice to be able to do a lot of outdoor cooking... cooking on the beach and people inviting us into their back yards, or even front yards, which is usually a beach," she said. "As a chef that's a dream right, to be able to go back home and showcase how beautiful your home is." Not only is Bero thrilled to bring island cuisine to the forefront, she said it's just as exciting to return to her homeand share new ways to prepare traditional foods with her family and community. "It's part of our lifeblood, the food that comes out of the ocean and in their backyards," she said. "It's so great to be able to be someone like myself who's come all the way down here to the city and create the stuff I've been taught along the way from many different places and then take it back home and showcase what they could do with traditional foods that we already have." In the midst of writing a new cookbook, Bero said there's a lot of things on the horizon for her and Mabu Mabu. One thing is certain, she's determined to continue her mission to champion native ingredients and the flavours of her home. Island Echoes with Nornie Bero will premiere on January 9 on NITV. 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 Advertisement