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NoneWhat to Expect from OptiSigns at DSE 2024: Live Demonstrations: Visitors of DSE can visit OptiSigns booth #3134 to explore the intuitive features of the OptiSigns platform and learn how it can simplify and enhance digital signage management. Using OptiSigns innovative technology like the Pro Player and Android Stick, visitors will be treated to LIVE Demos of unique OptiSigns features like Audience Intelligence, the OptiSync Data Management System, and the Lift and Learn Interactive Kiosk Experience. New Product Announcements: Stop by OptiSigns booth #3134 and be the first to see the newest innovative Pro Max technology designed by OptiSigns and learn more about unique updates that will redefine the digital signage landscape. Our newest Pro Max technology is our most powerful digital signage player that supports 8K or 4x4K video walls. With OptiSigns experts onsite, visitors will have the opportunity to discuss trends, best practices, and strategies for maximizing the impact of digital signage. Exclusive Giveaways and Promotions: Attendees visiting OptiSigns booth #3134 will have access to special offers, giveaways, and prizes. This year, OptiSigns will unleash their interactive Opti Claw Machine, tantalizing visitors with a chance to win OptiSigns Android Sticks, Pro Players, Optibot Keychains, and more. One lucky winner will win a brand new PS5 Pro via a LinkedIn competition, and the winner will be announced LIVE at DSE! For more information on the PS5 giveaway, check out OptiSigns' LinkedIn page. About OptiSigns OptiSigns is a leading digital signage software provider dedicated to helping businesses create engaging, impactful content experiences. Focusing on simplicity, scalability, and innovation, OptiSigns empowers organizations to communicate their message effectively and captivate their audience through digital displays. For more information on OptiSigns, visit www.optisigns.com or follow us on all social media @OptiSignsInc. Media Contact: Aisha Albritton Director of Trade Show Strategy and Event Marketing Aisha.Albritton@OptiSigns.com | (404) 641-0613 View original content to download multimedia: https://www.prnewswire.com/news-releases/optisigns-to-showcase-cutting-edge-digital-signage-solutions-at-the-digital-signage-experience-2024-in-las-vegas-302320107.html SOURCE OptiSigns

As ski resorts across the Pacific Northwest begin to open, anticipation is growing for what experts predict could be an unforgettable season. The National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration (NOAA) predicts a 60% chance of La Niña conditions, leading skiers and snowboarders to gear up for a winter filled with fresh powder, stunning views, and epic runs. In the 2023-2024 season, the National Ski Areas Association reported that 60.4 million people hit the slopes nationwide, but only 16.5 million chose the Pacific Northwest. However, that number may rise this season as renowned resorts like Mount Baker, Crystal Mountain, and Stevens Pass prepare for what could be one of their snowiest winters. Here's what you need to know to take full advantage of this potentially record-breaking ski season in the PNW. I've skied at more than 20 resorts across the United States, from the East Coast to the West Coast. I can attest that skiing in the Pacific Northwest offers an entirely different experience, primarily due to heavy snowfall and the Pacific Northwest's distinct type of snow. According to AccuWeather's Senior Meteorologist Brian Wimer , "Ski resorts on the West Coast, such as in Washington, Oregon, and California, have much more moisture available in comparison to interior Western states like Utah and Colorado." Coastal states experience more frequent snowstorms than ski areas in other parts of the United States. For example, Mount Baker in Washington is famous for being the world's snowiest ski resort , largely due to its prime location close to the coast. Another result of the Pacific Northwest’s location is the snow’s water content, which influences its texture. Areas closer to the ocean tend to have snow with higher water content, while this decreases as you move inland. As water content lowers, snow becomes drier and more powdery, much like the conditions found in the Rockies. While you'll enjoy plenty of powder days in the Pacific Northwest, the snow won't feel quite the same as Colorado's. You can still carve through fresh snow, but it tends to be heavier and wetter, making many PNW skiers opt for thicker skis. One of the great things about the Pacific Northwest is how long the winter season lasts. From November to May, there's plenty of time to enjoy the slopes. As someone who loves skiing here, I can confidently say there's no wrong time to visit. However, I recommend coming between January and April, as the mountains receive the most snowfall during this period. The base layers have time to build up, ensuring most runs are open and ready for action. My favorite time to ski in the Pacific Northwest is early spring. While many skiers and snowboarders race to get the first tracks after a fresh snowstorm or overnight grooming, spring skiing in the PNW offers a special experience. The best time to enjoy spring skiing is in the afternoon, so most people don't hit the slopes until lunchtime. You still get the occasional snowstorm, but the warmer temperatures make it unique. There's something about skiing in lighter layers, with many opting for just a t-shirt, that makes it feel like a whole new adventure. Experts at the NOAA expect above-average precipitation across Washington, Oregon, and Idaho in early winter, leading to favorable snow conditions at their ski resorts. The Pacific Northwest offers various ski resorts , from charming local mountains to world-famous destinations. With La Niña's predicted snowfall this winter, several spots are worth considering for your trip. My personal favorite in Oregon is Mount Bachelor. Over in Washington, you can't go wrong with Summit at Snoqualmie, Mission Ridge, or Crystal Mountain. And while Idaho might not always be the first place you think of for skiing, the state has some incredible resorts, including Schweitzer and Sun Valley. To fully enjoy this ski season, I highly recommend planning ahead and booking your trip to one of the top resorts in Washington, Oregon, or Idaho. In addition, keeping up with weather apps and following resort social media accounts is essential for tracking snowstorms and staying informed. While chasing storms may not be feasible for everyone, it remains one of the best ways to guarantee optimal conditions. If you're anticipating a significant storm and can take time off, seizing that opportunity to hit the slopes could make for an unforgettable ski experience. The Pacific Northwest offers something extraordinary with its heavy snowfall, breathtaking views, and diverse range of resorts. While many skiers and snowboarders anxiously monitor weather forecasts and resort updates, planning early is always smart. By booking your lift tickets, flights, and accommodations at the start of the season, you'll avoid price hikes and set yourself up for an incredible winter adventure in the Pacific Northwest.Oakland County, Michigan Harassment Attorney Paul J. Tafelski Releases Article on Harassment Laws in Michigan 12-02-2024 11:16 PM CET | Politics, Law & Society Press release from: ABNewswire Oakland County, Michigan harassment attorney [ https://www.michigandefenselaw.com/criminal-harassment-lawyer/ ] Paul J. Tafelski of Michigan Defense Law has published an informative article analyzing the complexities of harassment laws in Michigan. The article explores how allegations of harassment are handled under Michigan law, including the potential for charges under stalking statutes, the penalties associated with such charges, and the importance of understanding one's legal rights when facing accusations of harassment. In Michigan, there is no specific statute in the state's Penal Code that directly addresses harassment. Instead, Oakland County, Michigan harassment attorney Paul J. Tafelski explains that most harassment-related allegations are prosecuted under Michigan's stalking statutes. These laws are designed to address behaviors that frighten, intimidate, or invade the privacy of another person. Depending on the circumstances, charges can range from misdemeanor stalking to aggravated stalking, which is a felony offense. "Accusations of harassment and stalking are taken very seriously in Michigan," said Oakland County, Michigan harassment attorney Paul J. Tafelski. "These charges can lead to severe penalties, including jail time, fines, and long-term consequences such as a criminal record. Understanding how these laws work and what options are available to defend against them is critical for anyone facing such accusations." The article provides a detailed look at Michigan's stalking laws, which are codified under Sections 750.411h and 750.411i of the Michigan Penal Code. Misdemeanor stalking is defined as a willful course of conduct involving repeated or continued harassment that would cause a reasonable person to feel terrorized, intimidated, or threatened. Penalties for misdemeanor stalking can include up to one year in jail and fines of up to $10,000. Aggravated stalking, a more serious charge, involves additional elements such as credible threats, violations of restraining orders, or repeated offenses. Convictions for aggravated stalking can result in up to ten years in prison and fines of up to $15,000. Tafelski emphasizes that these charges require the prosecution to prove several key elements, including unconsented contact and emotional distress caused to the accuser. "Stalking charges can be complex, and the stakes are incredibly high," says Tafelski. "Even actions that may seem harmless to one person, such as sending an email or showing up at someone's workplace, can be interpreted as stalking if they cause the other person to feel terrorized or harassed. This makes it essential to handle these cases with care and precision." In addition to traditional stalking, Tafelski's article also addresses the rising issue of cyberstalking in Michigan. Cyberstalking involves unwanted contact through internet-based communication, such as emails, social media messages, or other digital platforms. Under Section 750.411s, cyberstalking is considered a felony and carries severe penalties, including up to five years in prison and $10,000 in fines. "The internet has created new ways for allegations of harassment to arise," Tafelski explains. "Many people don't realize that their online behavior can lead to criminal charges. It's important to exercise caution when interacting with others digitally." Stalking charges often involve emotionally charged situations, such as disputes between former romantic partners, friends, or family members. Tafelski notes that the broad definitions under Michigan's stalking laws can sometimes lead to false accusations or misunderstandings. "Stalking is not always about malicious intent," Tafelski says. "In many cases, the accused may not have realized their actions caused discomfort or fear. However, Michigan's laws are written in a way that even non-threatening behavior can be criminalized if it's perceived as harassment. That's why it's essential to have a strong legal defense to provide context and protect individual rights." The Oakland County, Michigan harassment attorney outlines several potential defenses that may be used in harassment or stalking cases. These include challenging the prosecution's ability to prove unconsented contact, demonstrating that the accused did not intend to cause fear or distress, and questioning the credibility of the accuser's claims. The article addresses the long-term consequences of a stalking conviction, which can extend far beyond jail time and fines. These consequences may include probation, mandatory counseling, restraining orders, and a permanent criminal record that can affect employment opportunities and personal relationships. Tafelski encourages individuals facing harassment or stalking allegations to take the charges seriously and seek legal guidance as soon as possible About Michigan Defense Law: Michigan Defense Law, led by Paul J. Tafelski, is a criminal defense firm serving clients throughout Oakland County, Michigan. The firm focuses on defending individuals accused of crimes such as harassment, stalking, and cyberstalking. With extensive knowledge of Michigan's legal system, Michigan Defense Law is dedicated to helping clients address legal challenges and achieve favorable outcomes. Embeds: Youtube Video: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=xsyb3rrQ0gs GMB: https://www.google.com/maps?cid=7441820969606749572 Email and website Email: paul@michigandefenselaw.com Website: https://www.michigandefenselaw.com/ Media Contact Company Name: Michigan Defense Law Contact Person: Paul J. Tafelski Email:Send Email [ https://www.abnewswire.com/email_contact_us.php?pr=oakland-county-michigan-harassment-attorney-paul-j-tafelski-releases-article-on-harassment-laws-in-michigan ] Phone: (248) 451-2200 Address:2525 S Telegraph Rd suite 100 City: Bloomfield Hills State: Michigan 48302 Country: United States Website: https://www.michigandefenselaw.com/ This release was published on openPR.Share Tweet Share Share Email Speed and efficiency are critical. Financial institutions face increasing pressure to process loans quickly while maintaining accuracy. Traditional methods of loan processing often involve extensive manual labor, leading to delays and higher costs. Automation in loan processing and underwriting is a game-changer, offering faster credit decisions without compromising on quality . The Need for Automation in Loan Processing Loan processing involves multiple steps, including application review, document verification, and credit assessment. Historically, this has been a time-consuming process. For example, manual verification of documents can take days or even weeks. With increasing customer expectations for quick approvals, financial institutions need to adapt. Automation helps streamline these steps, ensuring faster turnarounds and improved customer satisfaction. Challenges in Traditional Loan Processing Traditional loan processing methods come with several challenges: Time-Consuming Processes: Manual tasks such as data entry and document validation slow down the approval process. Human Error: Errors in data entry or calculations can lead to incorrect decisions. High Operational Costs: Staffing for manual processing requires significant resources. Regulatory Compliance: Keeping up with changing regulations manually is labor-intensive and prone to oversight. Automation addresses these challenges by minimizing manual intervention and enhancing accuracy. How Automation Speeds Up Loan Processing Streamlined Data Collection Automated systems can collect and analyze data from various sources in real time. For instance, an automated platform can pull credit scores, income details, and employment history from integrated databases. This eliminates the need for borrowers to submit extensive paperwork, reducing the overall processing time . Optical Character Recognition (OCR) OCR technology is a critical component of loan processing automation. It allows systems to read and extract information from physical or digital documents. This reduces the time spent on manual data entry and ensures greater accuracy. Automated Credit Scoring Automation uses algorithms to assess creditworthiness based on predefined criteria. These algorithms analyze multiple factors, such as credit history, income, and debt-to-income ratio, within seconds. This results in faster and more consistent credit decisions. Real-Time Fraud Detection Fraud detection is crucial in loan processing. Automated systems use machine learning models to detect anomalies and flag potential fraud. For example, these systems can identify discrepancies in income statements or mismatched personal details, reducing the risk of fraudulent applications. The Role of Automation in Underwriting Underwriting is a critical step in loan approval, involving risk assessment and decision-making. Traditional underwriting methods rely heavily on human judgment, which can be subjective and inconsistent. Automation brings objectivity and efficiency to this process. Automated Underwriting Systems (AUS) AUS evaluates applications using predefined rules and criteria. These systems can process large volumes of applications simultaneously, ensuring quick decisions. Additionally, they provide clear justifications for approvals or rejections, enhancing transparency. Machine Learning in Underwriting Machine learning models improve the accuracy of underwriting decisions by analyzing historical data. These models identify patterns and trends that may not be evident to human underwriters. For example, a machine learning algorithm can predict default risks based on subtle indicators, such as irregular income patterns or recent job changes. Improved Compliance Automation ensures adherence to regulatory requirements by embedding compliance rules into the system. This reduces the likelihood of errors and penalties. For example, automated systems can check whether a loan meets Fair Lending Act requirements, ensuring unbiased decisions. Benefits of Automation in Loan Processing and Underwriting Faster Turnaround Times Automated systems significantly reduce the time required for loan approvals. Borrowers can receive decisions within minutes, improving their experience and increasing customer loyalty. Cost Efficiency Automation reduces the need for extensive manual labor, lowering operational costs. Financial institutions can reallocate resources to focus on customer service and strategic initiatives. Enhanced Accuracy Automated systems minimize errors in data entry and calculations. This ensures more accurate decisions, reducing the risk of defaults or regulatory violations. Scalability Automation allows financial institutions to handle higher volumes of applications without compromising on quality. This is particularly beneficial during peak periods, such as holiday seasons or economic stimulus programs. Better Risk Management Machine learning models used in automation improve risk assessment. By analyzing a wide range of data points, these models provide a comprehensive view of borrower risk. Key Considerations for Implementing Automation Integration with Existing Systems For successful implementation, automated systems must integrate seamlessly with existing platforms. This ensures a smooth transition and minimal disruption to operations. Data Security With increased reliance on digital systems, data security is paramount. Financial institutions must invest in robust cybersecurity measures to protect sensitive customer information. Employee Training Automation does not eliminate the need for human involvement. Employees must be trained to work alongside automated systems, focusing on tasks that require judgment and expertise. Regulatory Compliance Automated systems must be designed to comply with local and international regulations. Regular audits and updates are essential to maintain compliance. Future Trends in Loan Processing and Underwriting Automation Artificial Intelligence (AI) Integration AI is set to play a larger role in automation, enabling more sophisticated decision-making processes. For instance, AI can analyze unstructured data, such as social media activity, to assess creditworthiness. Blockchain Technology Blockchain offers a secure and transparent way to manage loan data. By providing a tamper-proof ledger, blockchain can streamline verification processes and reduce fraud. Customer-Centric Solutions Future automation efforts will focus on enhancing the borrower experience. Personalized loan offers and intuitive application processes will become standard. Conclusion Loan processing and underwriting automation are revolutionizing the financial industry. By leveraging technologies like OCR, machine learning, and AI, financial institutions can speed up credit decisions, reduce costs, and improve accuracy. However, successful implementation requires careful planning, integration, and adherence to regulatory standards. As automation continues to evolve, it promises a future of faster, smarter, and more customer-centric lending processes . Related Items: Automation in Loan Processing , Automation in Underwriting , Speeding Up Credit Decisions Share Tweet Share Share Email CommentsKUALA LUMPUR, Dec 12 — As 2024 draws to a close, Malaysia reflects on a year marked by political milestones, social upheavals and natural disasters. From Sultan Ibrahim’s ascension as the 17th Yang di-Pertuan Agong in January to record-breaking floods displacing over 147,000 people in December, the year’s defining moments encapsulate the nation’s triumphs and trials. The year also witnessed poignant moments of public outrage and reform. From the tragic suicide of influencer Esha, which led to new cyberbullying laws, to public criticism over losses in Khazanah and PNB’s Fashion Valet investment, there were calls for greater accountability. Here are the top news highlights for each month in 2024: January: New King Sultan Ibrahim of Johor was officially sworn in as Malaysia’s 17th Yang di-Pertuan Agong on January 31, succeeding Al-Sultan Abdullah Ri’ayatuddin Al-Mustafa Billah Shah of Pahang, whose five-year term ended on December 31, 2023. February: Najib Razak’s pardon On February 2, the Federal Territories Pardons Board reduced former Prime Minister Datuk Seri Najib Razak’s 12-year jail sentence to six years . An early release could be possible by August 23, 2028, if Najib pays a reduced fine of RM50 million, down from RM210 million. March: ‘Allah’ socks at KK Mart On March 13, KK Mart faced backlash and nationwide boycotts after socks with the word “Allah” were spotted in one outlet. The controversy sparked protests and three Molotov cocktail attacks, despite the company issuing an apology. April: Navy helicopters collide during rehearsal On April 23, two Royal Malaysian Navy helicopters collided during a rehearsal for its 90th anniversary, resulting in 10 injuries and fatalities. May: Acid splashed on national footballer and Ulu Tiram police station attack On May 5, national and Selangor FC footballer Faisal Halim suffered fourth-degree burns after being splashed with acid by an unknown individual. He was in the Intensive Care Unit (ICU) for about 10 days. On May 17, two police officers, Constable Ahmad Azza Fahmi Azhar, 22, and Constable Muhamad Syafiq Ahmad Said, 24, were killed in a machete attack at the Ulu Tiram police station in Johor. Corporal Mohd Hasif Roslan, 38, sustained a gunshot injury during the incident. June: Actress Fan Bingbing brings crowds to Melaka Prominent Chinese film star Fan Bingbing, who has 63 million followers on Weibo, was appointed 2024 Melaka Tourism Ambassador on June 15. Chief Minister Datuk Seri Ab Rauf Yusoh likened Melaka’s appeal to that of China’s Yunnan province. July: Influencer dead after cyberbullying Social media influencer A. Rajeswary Appahu, known as Esha, was found dead in an apparent suicide on July 5. This occurred a day after she filed a police report about online threats. Her death prompted Putrajaya to introduce new cyberbullying laws . August: Indian tourist falls into sinkhole A sinkhole approximately eight metres deep near Jalan Masjid India in Kuala Lumpur swallowed 48-year-old Indian tourist G. Vijaya Lakshmi on August 23. A nine-day search was called off without locating the victim . September: GISBH raids and arrests On September 11, police launched Op Global , rescuing 402 children from 20 welfare homes run by GISB Holdings in Selangor and Negeri Sembilan. A total of 171 individuals aged 17 to 64 were arrested . October: PM Anwar tables Budget 2025 On October 18, Prime Minister Anwar Ibrahim tabled the government’s RM421 billion federal spending plan for 2025 . The record budget focused on boosting economic growth, raising the minimum wage and addressing subsidies. November: UPNM bullying cases and FashionValet scandal In November 2024, cases of bullying at Universiti Pertahanan Nasional Malaysia (UPNM) sparked significant public outrage and official concern, with the most prominent incident involving a first-year student who suffered fractured ribs and spine after allegedly being stomped on by a senior cadet, which reportedly occurred on October 21, but was only reported to the police in early November. Another case involved a senior cadet officer pressing a steam iron on his junior. Meanwhile, sale of Khazanah Nasional and Permodalan Nasional Berhad’s combined RM47 million investment in Fashion Valet for just RM3.1 million sparked public criticism. Prime Minister Anwar Ibrahim ordered an internal audit and instructed the Malaysian Anti-Corruption Commission to investigate the Fashion Valet’s owners . The case is ongoing as FashionValet Sdn Bhd founders Datin Vivy Yusof and her husband Datuk Fadzarudin Shah Anuar pleaded not guilty to criminal breach of trust involving RM8 million in investment funds at the Kuala Lumpur Sessions Court on December 5. December: Worst floods since 2014 Heavy rains since November 24 in Kelantan caused severe flash floods, displacing 147,162 individuals from 44,182 families across 10 states , with Deputy Prime Minister Datuk Seri Ahmad Zahid Hamidi saying it was worse than the 2014 floods . River levels in many areas remain dangerously high , and the Malaysian Meteorological Department (MetMalaysia) has issued warning over heavy rains while the authorities made preparations for a second wave of floods .

Winter solstice arrives next week, and with it the longest nights of the year — more than 14 hours of darkness. Which makes this a good time to talk about the disappearance of that thing that has inspired poets and story tellers, scientists and lovers — the night sky. A study last year in the journal Science concluded the sky is growing brighter at night because of light pollution, about 7% to 10% brighter every year. And according to their calculation, at the rate development (and light pollution) are expanding, a child born in a place where 250 stars are visible will only be able to see 100 of them on his or her 18th birthday. “The rate at which stars are becoming invisible to people in urban environments is dramatic,” according to Christopher Kyba, the scientist who led the study. The consequences are not just ours. The natural world evolved with the rhythms of day and night, and light pollution disrupts that. Artificial light lures sea turtles away from the sea and toward the cities after they hatch; light pollution affects migratory and breeding patterns in animals. The loss is also cultural — the fading of the great stories that have been embedded into the stars by different generations and people around the world. Low in the west after sunset can be seen the constellation Cygnus, the swan, a tribute, perhaps to Zeus, who disguised himself as a swan to seduce Leda, who then gave birth to Helen, who then fled Greece for Paris, which then started the Trojan War ... You know the rest. The central stars of that constellation also comprise the Northern Cross. Though not an official constellation, Christians over the centuries have seen in it another sign, the cross rising as it does just before dawn in the east by Easter, and standing upright low in the west at the season that signals the birth of Christ. According to the International Dark-Sky Association: “Less than 100 years ago, everyone could look up and see a spectacular starry night sky. Now, millions of children across the globe will never experience the Milky Way where they live.” Vincent van Gogh painted “The Starry Night” in France in 1889, the Association noted, and then wondered: “Now, the Milky Way can no longer be seen from there. If he were alive today, would he still be inspired to paint ‘Starry Night’?” The Association also cites the “World Atlas of Artificial Night Sky Brightness,” which reports: “80% of the world’s population lives under skyglow. In the United States and Europe 99% of the public can’t experience a natural night!” (Skyglow is the brightening of the night sky caused by artificial lighting.) There are organizations fighting back, a number of Dark Sky groups that are urging parks and other places to adopt policies and practices to protect views of the night sky. We encourage state and national parks (and communities) to do the same, adopting light management strategies and technologies that protect the view of the cosmos our ancestors experienced. The fault is not in our stars, but in ourselves; we can effect change for the better, and preserve the stirring and wonder-inducing drama and beauty of the night sky for our children and grandchildren.How major US stock indexes fared Monday, 12/2/2024Hard-hit by rising imports, steel sector eyeing policy initiatives to safeguard its interests in 2025

NoneSTOMACH ACHE CURE “Tsaang gubat” (Ehretia microphylla), which has long been used in the Philippines to treat diarrhea and spasms, helps relieve mild to moderate gastrointestinal colic. —Photo from the DOH MANILA, Philippines — Researchers at the University of the Philippines Manila (UPM) have developed a natural, affordable and highly effective treatment for severe abdominal pain conditions through tablets and syrup made from tsaang gubat (Philippine tea tree), a popular local herbal medicine. Clinical trials conducted by the National Integrated Research Program on Medicinal Plants have confirmed that tsaang gubat syrup was as effective as dicycloverine in treating mild to moderate gastrointestinal colic, especially in patients age 2 to 18 years. READ: UP Manila develops antifungal lotion using ‘akapulko’ plant Dicycloverine is a synthetic drug used to relieve cramps in the stomach and intestines. “Human trials showed that tsaang gubat provided comparable symptomatic improvement with dicycloverine syrup at various time points, from 30 minutes to 24 hours,” said Dr. Jaime Purificacion, research faculty at UPM-National Institutes of Health’s Institute of Herbal Medicine. Biliary colic, often caused by gallstones, was another condition where tsaang gubat showed promise. Studies revealed that tsaang-gubat tablets provided comparable pain relief to dicycloverine within 30 minutes, with complete relief from colic symptoms in just two-and-a-half hours. Tsaang gubat is also more affordable than other synthetic drugs available in drug stores. “Once commercialized, tsaang gubat is ideally priced at P30 per treatment, making it significantly cheaper than dicycloverine, which costs around P50, and other gastrointestinal treatments in the market,” Purificacion said. Unlike synthetic treatments, tsaang gubat has no major side effects. Dicycloverine may cause heartburn, constipation and dry mouth, on top of more adverse reactions. Tsaang gubat medicines have also been proven to be well-received by patients. “The majority of patients found the syrup sweet, pleasant and easy to swallow, and there were no adverse effects reported,” Purificacion said. Tsaang gubat (Ehretia microphylla) has long been used in the Philippines to treat diarrhea and spasms, as it contains alpha-amyrin, beta-amyrin, and baurenol—natural components which provide pain relief, reduce spasms in the gastrointestinal tract and have antidiarrheal effect. “Tsaang gubat offers an accessible and natural option, particularly in rural areas, supporting our local herbal industry while integrating traditional knowledge with modern pharmaceutical practices,” Purificacion said. “UP Manila is positioning tsaang gubat as one of the next major herbal products for 2024, offering pharmaceutical companies the opportunity to license and manufacture this innovative treatment,” the UPM said. This breakthrough is the result of collaborative efforts from a team of UPM’s leading scientists, including Dr. Nelia Cortes-Maramba, Prof. Evangeline Amor, Dr. Clara Lim Sylianco, Dr. Horacio Estrada, Prof. Ernesta Quintana, Dr. Romeo Quijano, Dr. Natividad de Castro, Dr. Cecilia Zamora and Prof. Leticia-Barbara Gutierrez. Subscribe to our daily newsletter By providing an email address. I agree to the Terms of Use and acknowledge that I have read the Privacy Policy . For further details, the public may contact Dr. Cecilia Maramba-Lazarte, director of Institute of Herbal Medicine of the UPM-NIH through [email protected] ; or the UPM Technology Transfer and Business Development Office at tel. no. (632) 88141293, or [email protected] .SAN DIEGO, Dec. 02, 2024 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) -- Capricor Therapeutics (NASDAQ: CAPR), a biotechnology company developing transformative cell and exosome-based therapeutics for the treatment of rare diseases, today announced that the Company is scheduled to present at the following upcoming investor conferences. About Capricor Therapeutics Capricor Therapeutics, Inc. (NASDAQ: CAPR) is a biotechnology company dedicated to advancing transformative cell and exosome-based therapeutics to redefine the treatment landscape for rare diseases. At the forefront of our innovation is our lead product candidate, deramiocel (CAP-1002), an allogeneic cardiac-derived cell therapy. Extensive preclinical and clinical studies have shown deramiocel to demonstrate immunomodulatory, antifibrotic, and regenerative actions specifically tailored for dystrophinopathies and heart disease. Deramiocel is currently advancing through Phase 3 clinical development for the treatment of Duchenne muscular dystrophy. Capricor is also harnessing the power of its exosome technology, using its proprietary StealthXTM platform in preclinical development focused on the areas of vaccinology, targeted delivery of oligonucleotides, proteins and small molecule therapeutics to potentially treat and prevent a diverse array of diseases. At Capricor, we stand committed to pushing the boundaries of possibility and forging a path toward transformative treatments for those in need. For more information, visit capricor.com , and follow Capricor on Facebook , Instagram and Twitter . Cautionary Note Regarding Forward-Looking Statements Statements in this press release regarding the efficacy, safety, and intended utilization of Capricor's product candidates; the initiation, conduct, size, timing and results of discovery efforts and clinical trials; the pace of enrollment of clinical trials; plans regarding regulatory filings, future research and clinical trials; regulatory developments involving products, including the ability to obtain regulatory approvals or otherwise bring products to market; manufacturing capabilities; dates for regulatory meetings; statements about our financial outlook; the ability to achieve product milestones and to receive milestone payments from commercial partners; plans regarding current and future collaborative activities and the ownership of commercial rights; potential future agreements; scope, duration, validity and enforceability of intellectual property rights; future revenue streams and projections; expectations with respect to the expected use of proceeds from the recently completed offerings and the anticipated effects of the offerings; and any other statements about Capricor's management team's future expectations, beliefs, goals, plans or prospects constitute forward-looking statements within the meaning of the Private Securities Litigation Reform Act of 1995. Any statements that are not statements of historical fact (including statements containing the words "believes,” "plans,” "could,” "anticipates,” "expects,” "estimates,” "should,” "target,” "will,” "would” and similar expressions) should also be considered to be forward-looking statements. There are a number of important factors that could cause actual results or events to differ materially from those indicated by such forward-looking statements. More information about these and other risks that may impact Capricor's business is set forth in Capricor's Annual Report on Form 10-K for the year ended December 31, 2023, as filed with the Securities and Exchange Commission on March 11, 2024, and in our Quarterly Report on Form 10-Q for the quarter ended September 30, 2024, as filed with the Securities and Exchange Commission on November 14, 2024. All forward-looking statements in this press release are based on information available to Capricor as of the date hereof, and Capricor assumes no obligation to update these forward-looking statements. Capricor has entered into an agreement for the exclusive commercialization and distribution of deramiocel (CAP-1002) for DMD in the United States and Japan with Nippon Shinyaku Co., Ltd. (U.S. subsidiary: NS Pharma, Inc.), subject to regulatory approval. Deramiocel is an Investigational New Drug and is not approved for any indications. None of Capricor's exosome-based candidates have been approved for clinical investigation. For more information, please contact: Capricor Media Contact: Raquel Cona KCSA Strategic Communications [email protected] 212.896.1204 Capricor Company Contact: AJ Bergmann, Chief Financial Officer [email protected] 858.727.1755

Jeffrey Fleishman | (TNS) Los Angeles Times The national furor in recent years around banning books on race and gender in public schools is intensifying as President-elect Donald Trump threatens to shut down the Department of Education, emboldening conservatives to end “wokeness” in classrooms. Battles over books in school libraries have become emblematic of the country’s larger culture wars over race, historical revisionism and gender identity. A new report by PEN America found book bans increased by nearly 200% during the 2023-24 school year, including titles on sexuality, substance abuse, depression and other issues students face in an age of accelerating technologies, climate change, toxic politics and fears about the future. Book censorship has shaken and divided school boards, pitted parents against parents, and led to threats against teachers and librarians . It is part of an agenda driven by conservative parental rights groups and politicians who promote charter schools and voucher systems that could weaken public education. The issue goes to the heart not only of what students are taught but how federal and state education policies will affect the nation’s politics after one of the most consequential elections in its history. “It’s not just about taking a book off a shelf,” said Tasslyn Magnusson, an author and teacher from Wisconsin who tracks book censorship across the U.S. “It’s about power and who controls public education. It’s about what kind of America we were and are. We’re trying to define what family is and what America means. That comes down to the stories we tell.” She said she feared Trump’s return to the White House would further incite those calling for book bans: “I don’t have lots of hope. It could get a lot worse.” Over the last year, PEN counted more than 10,000 book bans nationwide that targeted 4,231 unique titles. Most were books dealing with gender, sexuality, race and LGBTQ+ storylines. The most banned title was Jodi Picoult’s “Nineteen Minutes,” about a school shooting that included a short description of date rape. Florida and Iowa — both of which have strict regulations on what students can read — accounted for more than 8,200 bans in the 2023-24 school year. “This crisis is tragic for young people hungry to understand the world they live in and see their identities and experiences reflected in books,” Kasey Meehan, director of PEN’s Freedom to Read Program, said in a statement. “What students can read in schools provides the foundation for their lives.” Trump’s calls to close the Department of Education would need congressional approval, which appears unlikely. Although public schools are largely funded and governed by state and local institutions, the department helps pay to educate students with disabilities, provides about $18 billion in grants for K-12 schools in poor communities and oversees a civil rights branch to protect students from discrimination. But Trump’s election has inspired conservative parental groups, including Moms For Liberty and Parents Defending Education, to strengthen efforts to limit what they see as a liberal conspiracy to indoctrinate children with books and teachings that are perverse, amoral and pornographic. Tiffany Justice, co-founder of Moms for Liberty, has criticized schools that she says spend too much time on diversity and inclusion when only about one-third of U.S. children are reading at grade level: “We’re talking about public school libraries and content for kids,” Justice told NewsNation after Trump’s victory. “I think it’s very clear that there are certain things that are appropriate for kids, certain things that are appropriate for adults. We’re just getting back to commonsense America.” Trump’s threat to deny federal funding to schools that acknowledge transgender identities could affect curricula and the kinds of books school libraries stock. During his rally at Madison Square Garden in October, Trump — who has has accused schools of promoting sex change operations — said his administration would get “transgender insanity the hell out of our schools.” Vice President-elect JD Vance has accused Democrats of wanting to “put sexually explicit books in toddlers’ libraries.” Nicole Neily, president of Parents Defending Education, told Newsmax that she was excited about Trump’s calls to remake education and “clean up a lot of the mess” he has inherited from the Biden administration. Trump “has centered parental rights back in his platform, which is incredible. He has prioritized knowledge and skill, not identity politics,” she said. “American children deserve better, and it is time for change.” In nominating Linda McMahon to be his secretary of Education, Trump appears to be pushing for more conservative parental control over what is taught and read in classrooms. A former professional wrestling executive, McMahon chairs the America First Policy Institute, a Trump-connected organization that has criticized schools for teaching “racially divisive” theories, notably about slavery and a perspective about the nation’s founding it views as anti-American. “Today’s contentious debates over using classrooms for political activism rather than teaching a complete and accurate account of American history have reinvigorated calls for greater parental and citizen involvement in the curriculum approval process,” the institute’s website says. Culturally divisive issues, including race and LGBTQ+ themes, cost school districts an estimated $3.2 billion during the 2023-24 school year, according to a recent study called “The Costs of Conflict.” The survey — published by the Institute for Democracy, Education and Access at UCLA — found that battles over books and teaching about sexuality and other topics led to increased expenses for legal fees, replacing administrators and teachers who quit, and security, including off-duty plainclothes police officers. “Are we really going to spend our tax dollars on these kinds of things?” asked Magnusson. “After Trump was elected, I saw a bunch of middle-class white ladies like me who were saying, ‘This isn’t America.’ But maybe it is America.” One school superintendent in a Western state told the study’s researchers that his staff was often consumed with correcting misinformation and fulfilling public record requests mainly from hard-line parental rights activists attempting to exploit cultural war issues to discredit the district. “Our staff are spending enormous amounts of time just doing stupid stuff,” the superintendent said. “The fiscal costs to the district are enormous, but [so are] the cultural costs of not standing up to the extremists. If someone doesn’t, then the students and employees lose. ... It’s the worst it’s ever been.” The survey found that 29% of 467 school superintendents interviewed reported that teachers and other staff quit their profession or left their districts “due to culturally divisive conflict.” Censoring books in school libraries grew out of opposition to COVID-19 restrictions. A number of conservative parental groups, including Moms for Liberty, which invited Trump to speak at its national convention in August, turned their attention to lobbying against “liberal indoctrination.” Their protests against what they criticized as progressive teaching on sexuality and race were focused on increasing conservative parental control over a public education system that was struggling at teaching children reading and math. That strategy has led to a national, right-wing effort that is “redefining government power to restrict access to information in our schools,” said Stephana Ferrell, co-founder of the Florida Freedom to Read Project. “This movement to protect the innocence of our children believes if children never read it in a book they won’t have to know about it and can go on to lead harmonious lives. But books teach us cautionary tales. They instruct us. You can’t protect innocence through ignorance.” School districts across the country have removed “Gender Queer” by Maia Kobabe and “All Boys Aren’t Blue” by George Johnson, which are about gender identity and include graphic depictions of sex, along with titles by renowned writers such as Toni Morrison, Kurt Vonnegut, George Orwell, Maya Angelou and Flannery O’Connor. Related Articles National Politics | Trump transition says Cabinet picks, appointees were targeted by bomb threats, swatting attacks National Politics | Southwest states certify election results after the process led to controversy in previous years National Politics | Political stress: Can you stay engaged without sacrificing your mental health? National Politics | Trump fills out his economic team with two veterans of his first administration National Politics | Trump chooses controversial Stanford professor Dr. Jay Bhattacharya to lead NIH Surveys show that most Americans do not favor censorship. The Florida Freedom to Read Project and similar organizations around the country have called for thorough public reviews of challenged books to prevent one scene or passage from being taken out of context. Moderate and liberal parents groups over the last two years have also become more active in school board politics. They have supported school board candidates who have defeated those backed by Moms for Liberty in Texas, Florida and other states. “People say the pendulum will swing back,” said Ferrell. But, she said, conservatives want to “stop the pendulum from swinging back.” Picoult is accustomed to conservatives attempting to censor her. Her books have been banned in schools in more than 30 states. Published in 2007, “Nineteen Minutes” explores the lives of characters, including a girl who was raped, in a town leading up to a school shooting and its aftermath. “Having the most banned book in the country is not a badge of honor. It’s a call for alarm,” said Picoult, whose books have sold more than 40 million copies. “My book, and the 10,000 others that have been pulled off school library shelves this year, give kids a tool to deal with an increasingly divided and difficult world. These book banners aren’t helping children. They are harming them.” ©2024 Los Angeles Times. Visit at latimes.com. Distributed by Tribune Content Agency, LLC.

NEW YORK — Several of President-elect Donald Trump 's Cabinet picks and appointees have been targeted by bomb threats and "swatting attacks," Trump's transition said Wednesday. "Last night and this morning, several of President Trump's Cabinet nominees and Administration appointees were targeted in violent, unAmerican threats to their lives and those who live with them," Trump transition spokesperson Karoline Leavitt said in a statement. She said the attacks "ranged from bomb threats to 'swatting.' In response, law enforcement and other authorities acted quickly to ensure the safety of those who were targeted. President Trump and the entire Transition team are grateful for their swift action." President-elect Donald Trump arrives to speak at a meeting of the House GOP conference, followed by Rep. Elise Stefanik, R-N.Y., Wednesday, Nov. 13, 2024, in Washington. (AP Photo/Alex Brandon) Swatting entails generating an emergency law enforcement response against a target victim under false pretenses. The FBI said in a statement that it is "aware of numerous bomb threats and swatting incidents targeting incoming administration nominees and appointees, and we are working with our law enforcement partners. We take all potential threats seriously, and as always, encourage members of the public to immediately report anything they consider suspicious to law enforcement." Among those targeted was New York Rep. Elise Stefanik, Trump's pick to serve as the next ambassador to the United Nations. Rep. Elise Stefanik, R-N.Y., is seated before President-elect Donald Trump arrives at a meeting of the House GOP conference, Wednesday, Nov. 13, 2024, in Washington. (AP Photo/Alex Brandon) Her office said that, Wednesday morning, she, her husband, and their 3-year-old son were driving home from Washington for Thanksgiving when they were informed of a bomb threat to their residence in Saratoga County. "New York State, County law enforcement, and U.S. Capitol Police responded immediately with the highest levels of professionalism," her office said in a statement. "We are incredibly appreciative of the extraordinary dedication of law enforcement officers who keep our communities safe 24/7." In Florida, meanwhile, the Okaloosa County sheriff's office said in an advisory posted on Facebook that it "received notification of a bomb threat referencing former Congressman Matt Gaetz's supposed mailbox at a home in the Niceville area around 9 a.m. this morning." While a family member resides at the address, they said "former Congressman Gaetz is NOT a resident. "The mailbox however was cleared and no devices were located. The immediate area was also searched with negative results." Gaetz was Trump's initial pick to serve as attorney general, but he withdrew from consideration amid allegations that he paid women for sex and slept with underage women. Gaetz has vehemently denied any wrongdoing and said last year that a Justice Department investigation into sex trafficking allegations involving underage girls had ended with no federal charges against him. The threats follow a political campaign marked by unusual violence. In July, a gunman opened fire at a Trump rally in Butler, Pennsylvania, grazing the then-candidate in the ear with a bullet and killing one of his supporters. The U.S. Secret Service later thwarted a subsequent assassination attempt at Trump's West Palm Beach, Florida, golf course when an agent spotted the barrel of a gun poking through a perimeter fence while Trump was golfing. Among President-elect Donald Trump's picks are Susie Wiles for chief of staff, Susie Wiles, 67, was a senior adviser to Trump's 2024 presidential campaign and its de facto manager. Trump to be secretary of state, making a former sharp critic his choice to be the new administration's top diplomat. Rubio, 53, is a noted hawk on China, Cuba and Iran, and was a finalist to be Trump's running mate on the Republican ticket last summer. Rubio is the vice chairman of the Senate Intelligence Committee and a member of the Senate Foreign Relations Committee. “He will be a strong Advocate for our Nation, a true friend to our Allies, and a fearless Warrior who will never back down to our adversaries,” Trump said of Rubio in a statement. The announcement punctuates the hard pivot Rubio has made with Trump, whom the senator called a “con man" during his unsuccessful campaign for the 2016 GOP presidential nomination. Their relationship improved dramatically while Trump was in the White House. And as Trump campaigned for the presidency a third time, Rubio cheered his proposals. For instance, Rubio, who more than a decade ago helped craft immigration legislation that included a path to citizenship for people in the U.S. illegally, now supports Trump's plan to use the U.S. military for mass deportations. Pete Hegseth, 44, is a co-host of Fox News Channel’s “Fox & Friends Weekend” and has been a contributor with the network since 2014, where he developed a friendship with Trump, who made regular appearances on the show. Hegseth lacks senior military or national security experience. If confirmed by the Senate, he would inherit the top job during a series of global crises — ranging from Russia’s war in Ukraine and the ongoing attacks in the Middle East by Iranian proxies to the push for a cease-fire between Israel, Hamas and Hezbollah and escalating worries about the growing alliance between Russia and North Korea. Hegseth is also the author of “The War on Warriors: Behind the Betrayal of the Men Who Keep Us Free,” published earlier this year. Trump tapped Pam Bondi, 59, to be attorney general after U.S. Rep. Matt Gaetz withdrew his name from consideration. She was Florida's first female attorney general, serving between 2011 and 2019. She also was on Trump’s legal team during his first impeachment trial in 2020. Considered a loyalist, she served as part of a Trump-allied outside group that helped lay the groundwork for his future administration called the America First Policy Institute. Bondi was among a group of Republicans who showed up to support Trump at his hush money criminal trial in New York that ended in May with a conviction on 34 felony counts. A fierce defender of Trump, she also frequently appears on Fox News and has been a critic of the criminal cases against him. Trump picked South Dakota Gov. Kristi Noem, a well-known conservative who faced sharp criticism for telling a story in her memoir about shooting a rambunctious dog, to lead an agency crucial to the president-elect’s hardline immigration agenda. Noem used her two terms leading a tiny state to vault to a prominent position in Republican politics. South Dakota is usually a political afterthought. But during the COVID-19 pandemic, Noem did not order restrictions that other states had issued and instead declared her state “open for business.” Trump held a fireworks rally at Mount Rushmore in July 2020 in one of the first large gatherings of the pandemic. She takes over a department with a sprawling mission. In addition to key immigration agencies, the Department of Homeland Security oversees natural disaster response, the U.S. Secret Service, and Transportation Security Administration agents who work at airports. The governor of North Dakota, who was once little-known outside his state, Burgum is a former Republican presidential primary contender who endorsed Trump, and spent months traveling to drum up support for him, after dropping out of the race. Burgum was a serious contender to be Trump’s vice presidential choice this summer. The two-term governor was seen as a possible pick because of his executive experience and business savvy. Burgum also has close ties to deep-pocketed energy industry CEOs. Trump made the announcement about Burgum joining his incoming administration while addressing a gala at his Mar-a-Lago club, and said a formal statement would be coming the following day. In comments to reporters before Trump took the stage, Burgum said that, in recent years, the power grid is deteriorating in many parts of the country, which he said could raise national security concerns but also drive up prices enough to increase inflation. “There's just a sense of urgency, and a sense of understanding in the Trump administration,” Burgum said. Robert F. Kennedy Jr. ran for president as a Democrat, than as an independent, and . He's the son of Democratic icon Robert Kennedy, who was assassinated during his own presidential campaign. The nomination of Kennedy to lead the Department of Health and Human Services alarmed people who are concerned about . For example, he has long advanced the debunked idea that vaccines cause autism. Scott Bessent, 62, is a former George Soros money manager and an advocate for deficit reduction. He's the founder of hedge fund Key Square Capital Management, after having worked on-and-off for Soros Fund Management since 1991. If confirmed by the Senate, he would be the nation’s first openly gay treasury secretary. He told Bloomberg in August that he decided to join Trump’s campaign in part to attack the mounting U.S. national debt. That would include slashing government programs and other spending. “This election cycle is the last chance for the U.S. to grow our way out of this mountain of debt without becoming a sort of European-style socialist democracy,” he said then. Oregon Republican U.S. Rep. Lori Chavez-DeRemer narrowly lost her reelection bid this month, but received strong backing from union members in her district. As a potential labor secretary, she would oversee the Labor Department’s workforce, its budget and put forth priorities that impact workers’ wages, health and safety, ability to unionize, and employer’s rights to fire employers, among other responsibilities. Chavez-DeRemer is one of few House Republicans to endorse the “Protecting the Right to Organize” or PRO Act would allow more workers to conduct organizing campaigns and would add penalties for companies that violate workers’ rights. The act would also weaken “right-to-work” laws that allow employees in more than half the states to avoid participating in or paying dues to unions that represent workers at their places of employment. Scott Turner is a former NFL player and White House aide. He ran the White House Opportunity and Revitalization Council during Trump’s first term in office. Trump, in a statement, credited Turner, the highest-ranking Black person he’s yet selected for his administration, with “helping to lead an Unprecedented Effort that Transformed our Country’s most distressed communities.” Sean Duffy is a former House member from Wisconsin who was one of Trump's most visible defenders on cable news. Duffy served in the House for nearly nine years, sitting on the Financial Services Committee and chairing the subcommittee on insurance and housing. He left Congress in 2019 for a TV career and has been the host of “The Bottom Line” on Fox Business. Before entering politics, Duffy was a reality TV star on MTV, where he met his wife, “Fox and Friends Weekend” co-host Rachel Campos-Duffy. They have nine children. A campaign donor and CEO of Denver-based Liberty Energy, Write is a vocal advocate of oil and gas development, including fracking — a key pillar of Trump’s quest to achieve U.S. “energy dominance” in the global market. Wright also has been one of the industry’s loudest voices against efforts to fight climate change. He said the climate movement around the world is “collapsing under its own weight.” The Energy Department is responsible for advancing energy, environmental and nuclear security of the United States. Wright also won support from influential conservatives, including oil and gas tycoon Harold Hamm. Hamm, executive chairman of Oklahoma-based Continental Resources, a major shale oil company, is a longtime Trump supporter and adviser who played a key role on energy issues in Trump’s first term. President-elect Donald Trump tapped billionaire professional wrestling mogul Linda McMahon to be secretary of the Education Department, tasked with overseeing an agency Trump promised to dismantle. McMahon led the Small Business Administration during Trump’s initial term from 2017 to 2019 and twice ran unsuccessfully as a Republican for the U.S. Senate in Connecticut. She’s seen as a relative unknown in education circles, though she expressed support for charter schools and school choice. She served on the Connecticut Board of Education for a year starting in 2009 and has spent years on the board of trustees for Sacred Heart University in Connecticut. Brooke Rollins, who graduated from Texas A&M University with a degree in agricultural development, is a longtime Trump associate who served as White House domestic policy chief during his first presidency. The 52-year-old is president and CEO of the America First Policy Institute, a group helping to lay the groundwork for a second Trump administration. She previously served as an aide to former Texas Gov. Rick Perry and ran a think tank, the Texas Public Policy Foundation. Trump chose Howard Lutnick, head of brokerage and investment bank Cantor Fitzgerald and a cryptocurrency enthusiast, as his nominee for commerce secretary, a position in which he'd have a key role in carrying out Trump's plans to raise and enforce tariffs. Trump made the announcement Tuesday on his social media platform, Truth Social. Lutnick is a co-chair of Trump’s transition team, along with Linda McMahon, the former wrestling executive who previously led Trump’s Small Business Administration. Both are tasked with putting forward candidates for key roles in the next administration. The nomination would put Lutnick in charge of a sprawling Cabinet agency that is involved in funding new computer chip factories, imposing trade restrictions, releasing economic data and monitoring the weather. It is also a position in which connections to CEOs and the wider business community are crucial. Doug Collins is a former Republican congressman from Georgia who gained recognition for defending Trump during his first impeachment trial, which centered on U.S. assistance for Ukraine. Trump was impeached for urging Ukraine to investigate Joe Biden in 2019 during the Democratic presidential nomination, but he was acquitted by the Senate. Collins has also served in the armed forces himself and is currently a chaplain in the United States Air Force Reserve Command. "We must take care of our brave men and women in uniform, and Doug will be a great advocate for our Active Duty Servicemembers, Veterans, and Military Families to ensure they have the support they need," Trump said in a statement about nominating Collins to lead the Department of Veterans Affairs. Karoline Leavitt, 27, was Trump's campaign press secretary and currently a spokesperson for his transition. She would be the youngest White House press secretary in history. The White House press secretary typically serves as the public face of the administration and historically has held daily briefings for the press corps. Leavitt, a New Hampshire native, was a spokesperson for MAGA Inc., a super PAC supporting Trump, before joining his 2024 campaign. In 2022, winning a 10-way Republican primary before losing to Democratic Rep. Chris Pappas. Leavitt worked in the White House press office during Trump's first term before she became communications director for New York Republican Rep. Elise Stefanik, Trump's choice for U.S. ambassador to the United Nations. Former Hawaii Rep. Tulsi Gabbard to be director of national intelligence, keeping with the trend to stock his Cabinet with loyal personalities rather than veteran professionals in their requisite fields. Gabbard, 43, was a Democratic House member who unsuccessfully sought the party's 2020 presidential nomination before leaving the party in 2022. She endorsed Trump in August and campaigned often with him this fall. “I know Tulsi will bring the fearless spirit that has defined her illustrious career to our Intelligence Community,” Trump said in a statement. Gabbard, who has served in the Army National Guard for more than two decades, deploying to Iraq and Kuwait, would come to the role as somewhat of an outsider compared to her predecessor. The current director, Avril Haines, was confirmed by the Senate in 2021 following several years in a number of top national security and intelligence positions. Trump has picked John Ratcliffe, a former Texas congressman who served as director of national intelligence during his first administration, to be director of the Central Intelligence Agency in his next. Ratcliffe was director of national intelligence during the final year and a half of Trump's first term, leading the U.S. government's spy agencies during the coronavirus pandemic. “I look forward to John being the first person ever to serve in both of our Nation's highest Intelligence positions,” Trump said in a statement, calling him a “fearless fighter for the Constitutional Rights of all Americans” who would ensure “the Highest Levels of National Security, and PEACE THROUGH STRENGTH.” Trump has chosen former New York Rep. to serve as his pick to lead the . Zeldin does not appear to have any experience in environmental issues, but is a longtime supporter of the former president. The 44-year-old former U.S. House member from New York wrote on , “We will restore US energy dominance, revitalize our auto industry to bring back American jobs, and make the US the global leader of AI.” “We will do so while protecting access to clean air and water,” he added. During his campaign, Trump often attacked the Biden administration's promotion of electric vehicles, and incorrectly referring to a tax credit for EV purchases as a government mandate. Trump also often told his audiences during the campaign his administration would “Drill, baby, drill,” referring to his support for expanded petroleum exploration. In a statement, Trump said Zeldin “will ensure fair and swift deregulatory decisions that will be enacted in a way to unleash the power of American businesses, while at the same time maintaining the highest environmental standards, including the cleanest air and water on the planet.” Trump has named Brendan Carr, the senior Republican on the Federal Communications Commission, as the new chairman of the agency tasked with regulating broadcasting, telecommunications and broadband. Carr is a longtime member of the commission and served previously as the FCC’s general counsel. He has been unanimously confirmed by the Senate three times and was nominated by both Trump and President Joe Biden to the commission. Carr made past appearances on “Fox News Channel," including when he decried Democratic Vice President Kamala Harris' pre-Election Day appearance on “Saturday Night Live.” He wrote an op-ed last month defending a satellite company owned by Trump supporter Elon Musk. Rep. Elise Stefanik is a and one of Trump's staunchest defenders going back to his first impeachment. Elected to the House in 2014, Stefanik was selected by her GOP House colleagues as House Republican Conference chair in 2021, when former Wyoming Rep. Liz Cheney was removed from the post after publicly criticizing Trump for falsely claiming he won the 2020 election. Stefanik, 40, has served in that role ever since as the third-ranking member of House leadership. Stefanik’s questioning of university presidents over antisemitism on their campuses helped lead to two of those presidents resigning, further raising her national profile. If confirmed, she would represent American interests at the U.N. as Trump vows to end the war waged by Russia against Ukraine begun in 2022. He has also called for peace as Israel continues its offensive against Hamas in Gaza and its invasion of Lebanon to target Hezbollah. A Republican congressman from Michigan who served from 1993 to 2011, Hoekstra was ambassador to the Netherlands during Trump's first term. “In my Second Term, Pete will help me once again put AMERICA FIRST,” Trump said in a statement announcing his choice. “He did an outstanding job as United States Ambassador to the Netherlands during our first four years, and I am confident that he will continue to represent our Country well in this new role.” Trump will nominate former Arkansas Gov. Mike Huckabee to be ambassador to Israel. Huckabee is a staunch defender of Israel and his intended nomination comes as Trump has promised to align U.S. foreign policy more closely with Israel's interests as it wages wars against the Iran-backed Hamas and Hezbollah. “He loves Israel, and likewise the people of Israel love him,” Trump said in a statement. “Mike will work tirelessly to bring about peace in the Middle East.” Huckabee, who ran unsuccessfully for the Republican presidential nomination in 2008 and 2016, has been a popular figure among evangelical Christian conservatives, many of whom support Israel due to Old Testament writings that Jews are God’s chosen people and that Israel is their rightful homeland. Trump has been praised by some in this important Republican voting bloc for moving the U.S. embassy in Israel from Tel Aviv to Jerusalem. Trump on Tuesday named real estate investor Steven Witkoff to be special envoy to the Middle East. The 67-year-old Witkoff is the president-elect's golf partner and was golfing with him at Trump's club in West Palm Beach, Florida, on Sept. 15, when the former president was the target of a second attempted assassination. Witkoff “is a Highly Respected Leader in Business and Philanthropy,” Trump said of Witkoff in a statement. “Steve will be an unrelenting Voice for PEACE, and make us all proud." Trump also named Witkoff co-chair, with former Georgia Sen. Kelly Loeffler, of his inaugural committee. Trump said Wednesday that he will nominate Gen. Keith Kellogg to serve as assistant to the president and special envoy for Ukraine and Russia. Kellogg, a retired Army lieutenant general who has long been Trump’s top adviser on defense issues, served as National Security Advisor to Trump's former Vice President Mike Pence. For the America First Policy Institute, one of several groups formed after Trump left office to help lay the groundwork for the next Republican administration, Kellogg in April wrote that “bringing the Russia-Ukraine war to a close will require strong, America First leadership to deliver a peace deal and immediately end the hostilities between the two warring parties.” (AP Photo/Mariam Zuhaib) Trump asked Rep. Michael Waltz, R-Fla., a retired Army National Guard officer and war veteran, to be his national security adviser, Trump announced in a statement Tuesday. The move puts Waltz in the middle of national security crises, ranging from efforts to provide weapons to Ukraine and worries about the growing alliance between Russia and North Korea to the persistent attacks in the Middle East by Iran proxies and the push for a cease-fire between Israel and Hamas and Hezbollah. “Mike has been a strong champion of my America First Foreign Policy agenda,” Trump's statement said, "and will be a tremendous champion of our pursuit of Peace through Strength!” Waltz is a three-term GOP congressman from east-central Florida. He served multiple tours in Afghanistan and also worked in the Pentagon as a policy adviser when Donald Rumsfeld and Robert Gates were defense chiefs. He is considered hawkish on China, and called for a U.S. boycott of the 2022 Winter Olympics in Beijing due to its involvement in the origin of COVID-19 and its mistreatment of the minority Muslim Uighur population. Stephen Miller, an , was a vocal spokesperson during the presidential campaign for Trump's priority of mass deportations. The 39-year-old was a senior adviser during Trump's first administration. Miller has been a central figure in some of Trump's policy decisions, notably his move to separate thousands of immigrant families. Trump argued throughout the campaign that the nation's economic, national security and social priorities could be met by deporting people who are in the United States illegally. Since Trump left office in 2021, Miller has served as the president of America First Legal, an organization made up of former Trump advisers aimed at challenging the Biden administration, media companies, universities and others over issues such as free speech and national security. Thomas Homan, 62, with Trump’s top priority of carrying out the largest deportation operation in the nation’s history. Homan, who served under Trump in his first administration leading U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement, was widely expected to be offered a position related to the border, an issue Trump made central to his campaign. Though Homan has insisted such a massive undertaking would be humane, he has long been a loyal supporter of Trump's policy proposals, suggesting at a July conference in Washington that he would be willing to "run the biggest deportation operation this country’s ever seen.” Democrats have criticized Homan for his defending Trump's “zero tolerance” policy on border crossings during his first administration, which led to the separation of thousands of parents and children seeking asylum at the border. Dr. Mehmet Oz, 64, is a former heart surgeon who hosted “The Dr. Oz Show,” a long-running daytime television talk show. He ran unsuccessfully for the U.S. Senate as the Republican nominee in 2022 and is an outspoken supporter of Trump, who endorsed Oz's bid for elected office. Elon Musk, left, and Vivek Ramaswamy speak before Republican presidential nominee former President Donald Trump at an Oct. 27 campaign rally at Madison Square Garden in New York. Trump on Tuesday said Musk and former Republican presidential candidate Ramaswamy will lead a new “Department of Government Efficiency" — which is not, despite the name, a government agency. The acronym “DOGE” is a nod to Musk's favorite cryptocurrency, dogecoin. Trump said Musk and Ramaswamy will work from outside the government to offer the White House “advice and guidance” and will partner with the Office of Management and Budget to “drive large scale structural reform, and create an entrepreneurial approach to Government never seen before.” He added the move would shock government systems. It's not clear how the organization will operate. Musk, owner of X and CEO of Tesla and SpaceX, has been a constant presence at Mar-a-Lago since Trump won the presidential election. Ramaswamy suspended his campaign in January and threw his support behind Trump. Trump said the two will “pave the way for my Administration to dismantle Government Bureaucracy, slash excess regulations, cut wasteful expenditures, and restructure Federal Agencies.” Russell Vought held the position during Trump’s first presidency. After Trump’s initial term ended, Vought founded the Center for Renewing America, a think tank that describes its mission as “renew a consensus of America as a nation under God.” Vought was closely involved with Project 2025, a conservative blueprint for Trump’s second term that he tried to distance himself from during the campaign. Vought has also previously worked as the executive and budget director for the Republican Study Committee, a caucus for conservative House Republicans. He also worked at Heritage Action, the political group tied to The Heritage Foundation, a conservative think tank. Scavino, whom Trump's transition referred to in a statement as one of “Trump's longest serving and most trusted aides,” was a senior adviser to Trump's 2024 campaign, as well as his 2016 and 2020 campaigns. He will be deputy chief of staff and assistant to the president. Scavino had run Trump's social media profile in the White House during his first administration. He was also held in contempt of Congress in 2022 after a month-long refusal to comply with a subpoena from the House committee’s investigation into the Jan. 6, 2021, attack on the U.S. Capitol. Blair was political director for Trump's 2024 campaign and for the Republican National Committee. He will be deputy chief of staff for legislative, political and public affairs and assistant to the president. Blair was key to Trump's economic messaging during his winning White House comeback campaign this year, a driving force behind the candidate's “Trump can fix it” slogan and his query to audiences this fall if they were better off than four years ago. Budowich is a veteran Trump campaign aide who launched and directed Make America Great Again, Inc., a super PAC that supported Trump's 2024 campaign. He will be deputy chief of staff for communications and personnel and assistant to the president. Budowich also had served as a spokesman for Trump after his presidency. McGinley was White House Cabinet secretary during Trump's first administration, and was outside legal counsel for the Republican National Committee's election integrity effort during the 2024 campaign. In a statement, Trump called McGinley “a smart and tenacious lawyer who will help me advance our America First agenda, while fighting for election integrity and against the weaponization of law enforcement.” Trump has chosen Dr. Jay Bhattacharya to lead the National Institutes of Health. Bhattacharya is a physician and professor at Stanford University School of Medicine, and is a critic of pandemic lockdowns and vaccine mandates. He promoted the idea of herd immunity during the pandemic, arguing that people at low risk should live normally while building up immunity to COVID-19 through infection. The National Institutes of Health funds medical research through competitive grants to researchers at institutions throughout the nation. NIH also conducts its own research with thousands of scientists working at its labs in Bethesda, Maryland. Trump is turning to two officials with experience navigating not only Washington but the key issues of income taxes and tariffs as he fills out his economic team. He announced he has chosen international trade attorney Jamieson Greer to be his U.S. trade representative and Kevin Hassett as director of the White House National Economic Council. While Trump has in several cases nominated outsiders to key posts, these picks reflect a recognition that his reputation will likely hinge on restoring the public’s confidence in the economy. Trump said in a statement that Greer was instrumental in his first term in imposing tariffs on China and others and replacing the trade agreement with Canada and Mexico, “therefore making it much better for American Workers.” Hassett, 62, served in the first Trump term as chairman of the Council of Economic Advisers. He has a doctorate from the University of Pennsylvania and worked at the right-leaning American Enterprise Institute before joining the Trump White House in 2017. Associated Press writers Alanna Durkin Richer and Eric Tucker contributed to this report from Washington. Stay up-to-date on the latest in local and national government and political topics with our newsletter.

France’s Michel Barnier faced an abrupt end to his premiership on Monday after key opposition parties said they would back a no-confidence motion against his government after only three months in power. Certain that the National Assembly would deny him a majority backing the government’s social security financing plan for next year, Barnier forced through the bill without a vote, using executive powers under article 49.3 of the French constitution. The conservative premier, who formed a minority government in September after an inconclusive general election, has lived under the constant threat of a no-confidence vote that could force him to quit. The government could be toppled as early as tomorrow, when a vote is expected. “I honestly believe that the French people will not forgive us if we prefer partisan interests to the best interest of the nation,” Barnier told the lawmakers. “This is a moment of truth in which everybody must take their responsibilities. I am taking mine,” he added. Far-left opposition party LFI said immediately it would bring a no-confidence motion which the far-right National Rally (RN) — the largest single party in France’s parliament — said it would vote in favour of, after accusing Barnier of failing to negotiate on some of the bill’s provisions. “We will vote no confidence,” the RN said on X. Key to any such vote is Marine Le Pen, the parliamentary leader of the RN that has opposed several parts of the government’s 2025 budget plan, including the social security financing bill submitted to the National Assembly on Monday. In a last-ditch concession to the RN, the prime minister’s office said it was scrapping plans for a less generous prescription drug reimbursement policy from next year. It was uncertain to the last moment whether the nod to Le Pen’s concerns would be enough to save the day for Barnier, who has little hope of finding any left-wing support. But in the end the “miracle” — which RN party leader Jordan Bardella said was needed to avoid the no-confidence motion — failed to materialise. LFI deputy Mathilde Panot said Barnier had sought to avoid the no-confidence vote by making “dishonourable” concessions to the RN. “On Wednesday he will get both, dishonour and the no-confidence vote,” she said, adding that the move would allow France to emerge from “a political impasse” and “political chaos”. If the government falls, it would be the first successful no-confidence vote since a defeat for Georges Pompidou’s government in 1962, when Charles de Gaulle was president. The life span of Barnier’s government would also be the shortest of any administration of France’s Fifth Republic since 1958. Le Pen had already reacted icily Sunday after Budget Minister Laurent Saint-Martin said the government did not plan any further changes to the social security budget plan. “We have taken note,” she told AFP, calling the stance “extremely closed-minded and partisan behaviour”. The RN is the largest single party in the 577-seat National Assembly, with more than 140 deputies. On Thursday, Barnier scrapped a previously planned increase on an electricity tax, in a concession to critics. Saint-Martin has highlighted that the budget proposals have already been discussed by a parliamentary commission ahead of Monday’s debate and changed following talks between National Assembly deputies and upper house senators. “To reject this text is to reject a democratic agreement,” he said. The Senate, where right-wing parties have a majority, partly approved the 2025 budget Sunday, giving a green light to government revenue projections, in a vote boycotted by the left. The Socialist party, part of the left-wing opposition, told Barnier it would vote against him if he used article 49.3 to push through a budget. Saint-Martin warned that the fall of the government would raise the risk premium on French government debt that has reached rare heights because of the country’s shaky financial situation.Hasbro Inc. stock falls Thursday, underperforms market


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