apuestas deportivas bet365 The Government will block new incinerators if they do not help meet environmental objectives under rules unveiled on Monday. Developers will have to show that their project either helps reduce the amount of non-recyclable waste going to landfill, or replaces an older, less efficient incinerator. The move forms part of the Government’s drive to increase recycling rates, which have held at about 45% of household waste since 2015. Environment minister Mary Creagh said: “For far too long, the nation has seen its recycling rates stagnate and relied on burning household waste, rather than supporting communities to keep resources in use for longer. “That ends today, with clear conditions for new energy from waste plants – they must be efficient and support net zero and our economic growth mission, before they can get the backing needed to be built.” Developers will also have to ensure their incinerators are ready for carbon capture technology, and demonstrate how the heat they produce can be used to help cut heating bills for households. The Government expects that its “crackdown” on new incinerators will mean only a limited number are built, while still reducing the amount of waste sent to landfill and enabling the country to process the waste it produces. The Department for the Environment, Food and Rural Affairs said the country was almost at the point where it had enough waste facilities to handle non-recyclable rubbish, and so had limited need for new incinerators. But the proposals stop short of the plans included in the Conservatives’ 2024 manifesto, which committed to a complete ban on new incinerators due to their “impact on local communities” and declining demand as recycling increased.In recent news, a man in a bustling city was found to have amassed a substantial income by reselling lucky bags acquired through over 400 mobile phones. This lucrative venture has reportedly allowed him to earn a monthly income exceeding five figures. However, his actions have raised suspicions of unlawfully obtaining personal information for the purpose of profit.

In conclusion, the November data on consumer prices in Beijing reflects a mixed picture, with a notable decrease in overall prices driven by a decline in food prices. Understanding the factors shaping consumer prices and their implications for the economy is essential to developing effective policy responses and fostering sustainable economic growth. By analyzing the trends in consumer prices and monitoring the evolving economic landscape, policymakers can better navigate the challenges and opportunities facing Beijing's economy in the months ahead.

*As inflation bites, patients seek alternative treatment sources *Sokoto residents urge Tinubu to review economic policies Traders lament crash in value of naira *Want govt to tackle insecurity, deteriorating state of roads Our correspondents As 2024 fades into the sunset, it will be an understatement that has been a tough all-round year for Nigerians, especially on the back of economic reforms embarked upon by the President Bola Tinubu administration, which took over the reins of governance on May 29, 2023. Although characterised as bold by both Nigerian and foreign policy analysts, these major economic changes have had a massive impact on Nigerians. Headline inflation has rocketed to 34.6 per cent and food inflation has reached a record 39.93 per cent in the November 2024 circle recently released by the National Bureau of Statistics (NBS). From Nigeria’s far-flung Sokoto to oil-rich Rivers state, from Anambra in the east to Ondo in the south, the effects of these unprecedented economic changes have altered the way Nigerians live, and some would say, have deepened the level of poverty in the country. The Tinubu administration has deregulated the downstream oil sector, basically subjecting it to the vicissitudes of free market forces. This had led to an increase in the all-important petrol from about N194 per litre by the time he took over last year, to an average of about N1,000 nationwide currently. He has, as it were, floated the local currency, the Naira, leading to a depreciation from around N460 at government-controlled exchange rate in the first half of 2023 to circa N1,500 to N1,600/$ presently. A mostly import-dependent nation, this singular economic policy, has had harsh effects on the ordinary citizen, nay Nigerians of all classes. However, Tinubu has said the pain is temporary. He has urged Nigerians to endure the policies which he avers his predecessors didn’t have the courage to implement. As Nigerians await a new dawn, there appears to be a consensus: That the current hardship must give way to a better 2025. THISDAY aggregates views from some states in Nigeria and the Federal Capital Territory (FCT), asking respondents, who are ordinary Nigerians, how these policies have impacted them and their hopes for the coming year. Rivers A professional nurse, working with one of the private hospitals in Port Harcourt, Rivers State, Mrs Miriam Uchendu, decried how cost of drugs and other medical services have led patients to seek alternative treatment. Uchendu who spoke with THISDAY yesterday, explained that the removal of subsidy and hike in electricity tariff have affected the cost of drugs badly. “Drugs that we used to buy for maybe N1000 are now sold at over N5000. Drugs like ampiclox are on the high side. Augmentin that was sold at N2000 or N3000 is now N30,000, and these are the drugs that can help to treat typhoid, infection, etc,” she lamented. Uchendu, who maintained that the rising prices of basic medication was affecting patients negatively, stressed that patients barely visit hospitals these days, especially the private clinics. However, she is hopeful that there will be a turnaround in 2025 as “our dear President has promised us that next year’s things will be okay”. Mrs Nkiru Ohazuruike, a food stuff seller said: “Last year, we bought a crate of tomatoes between N4,000 and N7,000, but this year we are buying it between N23,000 to N35,000. This is very high, even onions; a sugar bag of onions that was sold last year at N25,000 is now sold at N300,000 as of this December. Delta A cross-section of respondents, who spoke with THISDAY in Warri yesterday, said they had resorted to rationing their meagre resources amid other coping mechanisms in the outgoing year. A public servant, Mrs Blessings Oghale, said she had to lecture her children on managing available resources and avoiding wastage adding: “I have told them we can no longer buy anything unnecessary so that we can reduce cost and save more; this is in addition to reducing our consumption pattern.” A trader at the popular Igbo market, Emeka Ugokwe said he had learnt to reduce the consumption of fuel by parking his car most times, using public transport to beat the cost of fueling. Mrs Kome Oritseweyimi, a food vendor, expressed regret that she no longer made profits from her business due to incessant increases in prices of goods resulting from increase in transport fares adding “Each day I keep running at a loss, as I no longer realise the cost price of the inputs I use in preparing food to sell, let alone making profits”. An entrepreneur, Mr. Israel Otunye said: “As we all know, the economic situation of Nigeria has become alarming and a thing of concern. To cope in this economy, some adjustments have to be made. Also, a civil servant, Mr. Voke Uvwie, lamented that transport fare was terrible adding: “So basically, I prioritise my needs and those of my family. Once I receive my income, I focus more on making sure the income takes care of feeding and my transport fare to and fro work.” Sokoto The residents of Sokoto State have urged Tinubu to review some of his economic policies in 2025 to ease the hardship orchestrated by the development. A food dealer, Alhaji Bashir Shehu, explained that the ‘untimely’ removal of fuel subsidy had affected their business. He noted that coupled with increases in transport fare, they have been forced to increase the price of their products, stressing that the rise in price also led to low patronage. ” You know in business you make money as a result of your turnover, a situation where you buy goods and it remains in the shops without a buyer does not augur well for business,” he lamented . Another resident, Mohamed Abdullahi, lamented that his family hardly eats three times a day, saying his income cannot meet the needs of his family. He appealed to the president to review his economic policies, but was optimistic that Tinubu will heed the cry of Nigerians in 2025. Anambra In Anambra, two persons interviewed, including a trader in food stuff, Mrs Blessing Obasi and an electrician, Calistus Nwanze both decried the level of hardship in the country, attributing it to the inability of the Tinubu-led government to implement policies that will ameliorate the plight of the common people. Obasi, a mother of two, whose husband is a middle level public servant said: “For me, the only help I have is that I sell food. It is from the shop that I feed my entire family. I wonder what people who do not have my privilege are going through this period. “A pot of soup now for poor people like us costs nothing less than N10,000, just to manage it. Before now, for N1,000, you would cook the same pot of soup, but not now not any longer. People are suffering.” On the other hand, Nwanze, a labourer who fixes electrical works in neighbourhoods around Awka, Anambra State said: “There is nothing anyone can tell me that Tinubu government is not the cause of this hardship. “Look at how fuel prices jumped from the very first day he took over. Now look at the electricity tariff. When we started using the prepaid meter, N5,000 couldn take me through the entire month. But today, N10,000 token does not last more than one week, even though I ensure that my family puts off unwanted bulbs when we are at home. The situation is no longer funny.” On their hopes for the next year, both Obasi and Nwanze seemed to be in agreement that Tinubu is not capable of changing anything. They both said: “There is nothing we will see now that will be more than what we have seen already. We are just in God’s hands, but if you ask me, our only hope is until Tinubu leaves.” FCT A taxi operator in Abuja, identified as Torngu Msughter, said he mainly uses his unpainted cab for the Banex—Federal Secretariat—Apo Bridge route. Msughter described the year 2024 as a challenging year that made the business very unprofitable for him and other operators. He noted that the removal of fuel subsidies led to higher fares for commuters by nearly 300 per cent as well as higher operational expenses for transport operators. “It was a very difficult year because the PMS (Premium Motor Spirit) that we were buying for about N190 per litre went to about N500 per litre before peaking at N1080 per litre. The increase in the cost of fuel affected the owners and the commuters, who could barely afford taxi fares. “For instance, I operate a four-cylinder Toyota Corolla that takes about 80-litre fuel. With the removal of the fuel subsidy, I spend over N80,000 to fill the fuel tank, which is quite beyond my means,” Msughter said. He appealed to the government to introduce policies that will drive down the cost of fuel, noting that high cost of fuel is one of the reasons for inflation in the country. Still in Abuja, a baker at New Karu, Nasarawa State, Mrs Esther Joseph, said the cost of baking materials soared and forced many bakers out of business in 2024. She attributed the price increase to more than 100 per cent increase in wheat flour which is imported from Canada and Ukraine, in addition to the high exchange rate as many baking materials are imported. She said a 50 kg bag of flour that was selling for N39,750 in February now sells for N69,000 in the market, while a bag of sugar of the same size that was sold in the market at N68,500 in February 2024 jumped to N93,000 by the end of the year. According to Joseph, the high cost of baking ingredients including yeast, milk and butter led to the high cost of bread, which is a major staple for many Nigerian families. “It is that bad because many customers no longer buy bread. The business also became less profitable because of the daily increase in the prices of baking materials, leading many of us to lose our business margins arising from a gradual reduction in production scale,” she said. The traders said they adopted a strategy of contributing money and sending one or two of them to markets in order to share the cost of transportation among them. For Abiodun Oviedje, a civil servant, the issue of high cost of living is due to insecurity which he said prevented a lot of farmers from going to the farms, for fear of being killed or kidnapped for ransom. “My expectations from the government in 2025 is that the government should do more to put an end to the issue of insecurity, if there’s peace in all parts of the country, there will be enough food supply because farmers will be able to do their business which is farming and other things will fall in place. The economy will also improve”, Oviedje said. Also speaking, a Public Relations expert, Felix Omo-asun, stated that besides the twin problems of high cost of living with attendant hunger, the cost of drugs impacted negatively on the citizens. He urged the government to, in the coming year, “promote policies to reduce the cost of living by providing an enabling environment,” adding that power is still an issue despite the rise of tariffs. Also suspension of tariffs on medical equipment has not caused lower prices for drugs”. Kano The story was not different in Kano. A trader, Abdul Bello, in Sabon Gari market said: “Life has become very expensive and difficult since the removal of fuel subsidy. The price of these food items that we sell is gradually becoming out of the reach of a common man, despite the fact that they are locally produced. “As you can see, the price for food items has quadrupled and because of that many people cannot even eat. Our business is not moving as usual and the profit is not much, as such the majority of petty traders cannot meet their domestic demands. Sometimes we have no other option than to eat from the business thereby, destabilising our investment. “Based on the current economic situation in Nigeria, governments at all levels should as a matter of urgency address our challenges by providing support to stabilise our businesses, increase profits, and improve our overall well-being. Abia Abia State residents like other Nigerians think that 2024 has been a very difficult year with many hurdles to cross for survival. A cross section of people in Umuahia that spoke with THISDAY painted a picture of despondency and frustration with political leaders. “I’m just existing. I can’t say I achieved anything this year in terms of buying personal properties,” says Joseph Onyedika, a commercial tricycle(keke) operator. He lamented that he could not even change his window curtains that “have been crying for retirement”. Onyedika, who says he is a father of two young children, dismissed any suggestion that the economic situation would improve in 2025. “I don’t see the signs; I can’t feel any positive change,” he lamented. Besides, one Mrs. Gracious Madukwe, a foodstuff retailer, said that she fought on two fronts to survive. She explained that while she struggled to provide for her family of four, she equally struggled to remain in business as prices of foodstuffs kept skyrocketing. “It hasn’t been easy to maintain my business due to inflation that was out of control,” she said. “Each time I go to buy rice, beans and garri from wholesalers, the prices would have increased from what it was previously, thereby forcing me to cut down on the quantity of goods I had planned to buy. However, Madukwe said that she has not given up hope on the Nigeria economy “I’m hopeful that the government will find the needed answer to these hardships we’re facing,” she said, adding, “when there’s life there’s hope”. Kaduna Mohammed Abudu, a mechanic who specialises in the repairs of honda cars, said he was thrown out of business following an increase in the price of fuel. “Many of my customers abandoned their cars for public transport. My wife’s shop was our only source of livelihood. We have never experienced this kind of situation before. We are appealing to the government to take this burden off us in the coming year. We want a better life in 2025 – affordable prices of goods and services,” he added. Enugu Residents of Enugu state, particularly business owners, have called on the federal government to implement policies that will address the harsh economic realities that characterised 2024, especially with the fuel subsidy removal, hike in tariffs and inflation. Ifunanya Onyekozuku, who deals in cosmetics inside Enugu’a main market said that fuel subsidy removal made transportation more expensive and that also increased the cost of goods. “This forced me to raise prices, and customers started buying less, she said. “The removal of fuel subsidies was meant to save the government money, but it caused transport costs and living expenses to increase sharply,” she added. Chinasa Onu, a food vendor in Ugwuaji, a suburb in the state said that the hike in fuel prices also increased the cost of food items like rice, beans and onions, which have recently hit the roof. According to her, only four balls of onions now sell for N1000. A consequence of this, she said, is the increase in food prices, which has left customers constantly complaining. A Tricycle rider who spoke to THISDAY, Nonso Ndukwe, also said that the prices of items used for repairs and maintenance have also gone up and that impacts income levels as increases in transport fare is not commensurate with the amount spent on maintenance and file purchase. Those who spoke to THISDAY were hopeful that things will be better in 2025. They however said that a lot depends on what the government and other key players do. Benue Traders, and small business owners are expressing growing frustration and despair over hardship being experience.Some of them like Ejembi Micheal at the Modern market, Makurdi, said despite the fact that farmers are harvesting their crops,prices of food stuff are steadily rising. “As you can observe,the bumper harvest we had has not significantly reduced the price of food items and this is due to the high cost of petroleum products,electricity tariffs and taxes,” he lamented Others complained about skyrocketing prices of essential goods, stagnant wages, and dwindling employment opportunities. Many people, they said, are struggling to make ends meet, with some forced to skip meals or rely on assistance from relatives and friends. Oyo A commercial driver plying Oke Padre to Ojoo, Ganiyu Abegunde, said the outgoing year has been tough for him as the fuel subsidy removal has led to hike in transport fare, stating that most Nigerians find it difficult to pay and thus reducing what he makes daily. He however expressed optimism that the current reduction in the price of petrol will be sustained in the coming year, lamenting that 2024 could be described as hellish for Nigerians. Speaking in the same vein, Mrs. Bola Salami, a trader at the popular Bola Ige International market, Gbagi, Ibadan, said she has hope that the government at all levels would come to the aid of Nigerians by doing everything possible to reduce prices of foodstuffs. According to her, 2024 is a year that Nigerians have found it difficult to put food on their table, noting that she and her household could not afford to eat three times in a day in the outgoing year. Cross River Unwana Edem , a lady who is into a wide range of businesses, including sale of food items and a restaurant business said the hike in fuel price affected her businesses to the extent that she almost gave up. Edem whose shop is located in Calabar, Cross River State, while speaking to THISDAY said: ” Doing business now is tough. I think it is tougher here in Calabar because of fuel prices and bad roads. I am a food stuff seller, so I can tell you that these two issues made prices of foodstuffs unaffordable for many. Some of my colleagues have closed shops. I am coping because I also have another side hustle with schools. I just hope next year will be better.” Another businesswoman, Tina Umoh , who trades in fish and crayfish between Calabar in Cross River State and Oron in Akwa Ibom State , said she can no longer engage in the business as a wholesaler because of the high cost of getting fish and crayfish from Oron. ” Last year around this time I was able to buy some bags of crayfish and plenty of fish because it was not too costly. But now, since this Tinubu regime , things have become very costly. I now collect from big traders who can buy wholesale, and people like me will collect and sell for them with small interest. Things are hard. I pray that 2025 will be better. There is nothing I can do but to keep praying,” she added. Ekiti A survey conducted by THISDAY in Ado Ekiti revealed that not even the fact that the nation is currently witnessing a harvest season could halt the escalating food prices. In a telephone chat with the State Commissioner for Agriculture, Mr Ebenezer Boluwade, he said the state government was assisting all categories of farmers in the state. However, he was of the view that farmers are not unlikely to face a certain percentage of post-harvest losses, essentially due to factors beyond them. Among others, he said the government had unrelentlessly tried to address all challenges faced by farmers, especially with the familiar problems of farm implements ,insecurity in the farms, high cost of transportation, as well as bad rural roads. Also speaking on the persistent food price hike, Mr Adegbola Akanle, a farmer, attributed the skyrocketing cost of food items to high price of petrol and the resultant high transport cost as well as insecurity in the farms. Ogun In a chat with some traders in Ogun state, it was gathered that the sharp increase in prices of goods including food items, had greatly affected sales. On the way forward in 2025, the traders said if the government is serious about the welfare of the masses, they should devise means of how available palliatives should get to the average Nigerians and also be ready to sacrifice some of their own benefits. ” As of today, the people running the affairs of government, particularly politicians, are still going about displaying affluence while the masses are suffering. The government should demonstrate commitment to what they are preaching”, they said. Ondo A plantain seller, Mrs Adewumi Bosede, said: “The present government policies affected me in numerous ways. The present government has failed to address the economic hardship and insecurity facing us. The fuel subsidy removal has made me poorer. A rice seller, Mr Chukwu Jude, said: “As far as I am concerned, the increase in fuel prices, from less than N200 to over N1000 per litre, and the depreciation of the Naira from less than N740 to over N1,600 per dollar are typical examples of how government has brought untold hardship to me and many other Nigerians.”Former President Jimmy Carter died at his Georgia home on Sunday, Dec. 29 at the age of 100. Reaction has been pouring out since the announcement. Former President Jimmy Carter died at his Georgia home on Sunday, Dec. 29 at the age of 100. President Joe Biden has ordered an official state funeral to be held in Washington, D.C. The Carter Center says public observances will be held in Atlanta and Washington, D.C. as well as a burial and funeral in his hometown of White Plains, Georgia. WASHINGTON - Former President Jimmy Carter died at the age of 100 on Sunday. Carter served as the 39th President of the United States and was known for his enduring commitment to philanthropy and humanitarian work. Carter served one term, from 1977 to 1981. He saw some monumental successes during his time in office, such as the brokering of the Camp David accord between Egypt and Israel but his term was also plagued by the energy crisis, inflation, high interest rates and the infamous Iran hostage crisis. But even after losing his bid for re-election, Carter continued to serve the public, championing causes such as global health, democracy and human rights. Carter received many honors throughout his life. At the 2000 Democratic Convention, delegates rose to their feet in his honor. And in 2002, he was awarded the Nobel Peace Prize. READ MORE: Jimmy Carter, 39th president of the United States, dies at 100 The late former president Jimmy Carter was awarded the Nobel Peace Prize in 2002 for his decades of work seeking peaceful solutions to international conflicts, advancing democracy and human rights, and promoting economic and social development. Here's how the former president will be honored following his passing. Presidential funerals can take years to plan out and the details are usually kept secret between close family members and the U.S. Army Military District of Washington. The arrangements are not announced until after a president dies. The plans for Carter's funeral have not been announced at this time, but shortly after the news of his passing came out, President Joe Biden said he is ordering an official state funeral to be held in Washington, D.C. "To honor a great American, I will be ordering an official state funeral to be held in Washington D.C. for James Earl Carter, Jr., 39th President of the United States, 76th Governor of Georgia, Lieutenant of the United States Navy, graduate of the United States Naval Academy, and favorite son of Plains, Georgia, who gave his full life in service to God and country," Biden said in a statement. The president, former presidents and president-elect are all entitled to a state funeral, but then family decides if they actually get one, or just how involved it will be. The family will provide details of the funeral plans to the Washington Military District, which is in charge of implementing them. At this time, the Carter Center says public observances will be held in Atlanta and Washington, D.C. as well as a burial and funeral in his hometown of Plains, Georgia. READ MORE: 'A man of faith and a man of principles:' Historian reflects on friendship with Jimmy Carter Protocol dictates that flags will be flown at half-staff for a period of 30 days after the passing of a U.S. president. The sitting president is also in charge of issuing an executive order issued authorizing the closure of federal offices and buildings for a national day of mourning. Each president’s final resting place is among the details they include in their plans. Most have chosen locations in their home states; only two presidents are buried at Arlington National Cemetery: Kennedy and William Howard Taft. What occurs in Washington, D.C. unfolds according to guidelines that date back to the mid-1800s and have been reshaped over time. They often involve funeral processions down Pennsylvania Avenue, lying in state in the U.S. Capitol Rotunda and a memorial service, usually at the Washington National Cathedral. READ MORE: What you may not know about Jimmy and Rosalynn Carter President Jimmy Carter passed away at the age of 100 at his Georgia home on Sunday. The 39th president of the United States, Carter is remembered as a staunch advocate for human rights, with an enduring commitment to philanthropy and humanitarian work. In 2015, Carter announced shattering news about his health. He candidly spoke about his battle with liver and brain cancer. "Now I feel it’s in the hands of God, who I worship, and I’ll be prepared for anything that comes," he said. Extensive treatment followed and he was declared cancer-free in December 2015. In 2019, Carter suffered several falls, one requiring hip replacement surgery. Another led to a fractured pelvis. In November of that year, he had to undergo surgery to relieve bleeding on his brain related to the falls. But Carter remained active well into his 90s, continuing to lead Sunday School classes at Maranatha Baptist Church in Plains and to help build Habitat for Humanity houses for those in need. He had been receiving at-home hospice care for nearly two years at the time of his death. The Carter Center confirmed his death, saying he died peacefully at his home in Plains, surrounded by his family. He was the longest-lived president in U.S. history. Additional details on the life and legacy of Jimmy Carter, as well as details on his services can be found on the Carter Center Tribute website . The Carter Center, FOX 5 Atlanta reporting, LiveNow reportingBATON ROUGE, La. – Louisiana’s GOP-dominated legislature passed tax cuts on personal and corporate income on Friday in exchange for a statewide sales tax increase, giving Gov. Jeff Landry much of what he wanted after his original tax reform package faced mounting resistance from lawmakers and lobbyists. The final passage of the tax measures wrapped up a special legislative session launched Nov. 6 by the governor and his allies. They said their purpose was to make the state’s tax code more business friendly, create jobs and reverse trends of outward migration from the state. It was the third special legislative session called by Landry, a Republican, since he assumed office in January. Recommended Videos Critics warned the tax reforms would primarily benefit corporate shareholders and wealthy taxpayers while the sales tax increase would exacerbate Louisiana's regressive tax system where poorer households pay a higher percentage of their income on taxes. Landry called the tax reforms “historic” and said that they allowed all Louisianans to keep more money in their pockets and would spur business investment. “Today we have made generational change in this state,” Landry said. “We now stand at the threshold of a new era for Louisiana.” A flat 3% income tax Lawmakers approved a flat 3% individual income tax rate, leading to a $1.3 billion cut. Previously, the personal income tax rate had stood at 4.25% for people earning $50,000 or more. Louisiana Republicans said the measure advanced their goal of ultimately eliminating the income tax in the future. “Income tax is a mandate; you have to pay it. You get punished for making more money,” said Republican Rep. Julie Emerson, who spearheaded the legislation. She argued consumption-based taxes were fairer: “Sales tax is a choice,” Emerson said. Lawmakers also noted that other Southern states like Arkansas , Mississippi and North Carolina have recently reduced their income taxes. “We’re on the same trajectory as other states around us to be competitive,” Republican Sen. Franklin Foil said. As part of the legislative package, lawmakers doubled the standard deduction for seniors and nearly tripled the standard deduction for individuals, effectively eliminating income tax on the lowest income households. Lawmakers also redirected $280 million in vehicle sales tax funds from several major infrastructure projects for the next two years in order to help offset the income tax cut. Corporate tax cuts The state’s new corporate income tax rate will be a flat 5.5%, reducing the highest tier from 7.5%. Landry had wanted a 3.5% flat rate. Louisiana's corporate income tax rate had been the highest in the South according to the Tax Foundation, a conservative think tank. Lawmakers repealed the 0.275% corporate franchise tax, a levy on businesses operating on the state worth more than $500 million in annual revenue that went to a state savings account. Republican lawmakers had decried the tax as an arbitrary penalty on business. Landry and other Republican lawmakers had touted these tax cuts as crucial to removing obstacles to attract job-generating companies to the state and to improve Louisiana's place on Tax Foundation's rankings for business climate. “Louisiana just became a much more attractive place to do business,” Louisiana Economic Development Secretary Susan Bourgeois said. Sales tax hike With the personal income tax reductions reducing annual revenue by $1.3 billion, Landry’s original plan had called for applying sales taxes to dozens of services like car-washing, dog-grooming and lobbying. He also sought to eliminate large tax incentives for the restoration of historic buildings and the film industry. Those proposals were defeated — except for a new sales tax on digital goods and services — following stiff opposition from Republicans and special interest groups, leading to a bigger sales tax hike than Landry initially proposed. Lawmakers raised the state sales tax to 5%, equivalent to an increase of one cent on every dollar spent. In 2030, the state sales tax will be reduced to 4.75%. The state's current sales tax stood at 4%, along with a temporary 0.45% sales tax that had been set to expire next year. Louisiana already had the highest combined state and average local sales tax in the country at 9.56%, according to the Tax Foundation. Louisiana has the 10th most regressive tax system in the country, according to the left-leaning Institute on Taxation and Economic Policy. Jan Moller, executive director of the liberal think tank Invest in Louisiana, said the sales tax hike and other changes take the state “in the wrong direction.” “I think it will ensure that low- and moderate-income families continue to pay a higher effective tax rate in Louisiana than those at the very top,” he said. Republican leaders said they did not believe the increased sales tax would cancel out the benefits of the income tax cut for lower- and middle-income families. Sen. Minority Leader Gerald Boudreaux said the Democratic Caucus had supported the bills — only one Democratic Senator dissented — in order to have a seat at the table in shaping the process, such as pushing to preserve the film industry tax credit. “All of those changes represent what's best for the state, and they're now in a document — that was not previously there,” Boudreaux said on the Senate floor. House Democrats were more fractured than their Senate counterparts, but many still voted in support of the overall tax package. Constitutional changes The tax reform package included a significant rewrite to a notoriously convoluted section of the state's constitution, Article 7. The amendment, which will go before voters on March 29, removes large amounts of tax exemptions from constitutional protection and intends to give lawmakers more latitude to end these exemptions in the future. The constitutional amendment also enables a permanent $2,000 raise for teachers, made possible by liquidating several education trust funds to pay off early nearly $2 billion in school district debt. And it inserts a “growth limit” on the amount of money lawmakers can direct to recurring expenses each year based on calculations of economic growth in the state — a measure proposed by conservative lawmakers. ___ Associated Press writer Kevin McGill contributed to this report. ___ Brook is a corps member for The Associated Press/Report for America Statehouse News Initiative. Report for America is a nonprofit national service program that places journalists in local newsrooms to report on undercovered issues. Follow Brook on the social platform X: @jack_brook96

In conclusion, Netanyahu's firm stance on the Golan Heights as an indivisible part of Israel reflects the complex dynamics of the Israeli-Palestinian conflict and the broader regional geopolitical landscape. As Israel navigates the complexities of safeguarding its security and territorial integrity, Netanyahu's assertiveness on the Golan Heights signals a determination to uphold Israel's national interests against external threats. The future of the Golan Heights remains uncertain, but Netanyahu's unwavering commitment to its status as a part of Israel will continue to shape the region's geopolitical realities for years to come.Telangana Farmers Get Rs 7,625 Cr for Yasangi Crop Aid: Bhatti

Mufflerman Joins Wrestlemania

Fans of I'm a Celeb declared that "Wagatha Christie was back" as Coleen Rooney once again demonstrated her knack for uncovering deceit. The spouse of footballer Wayne Rooney voiced her doubts about Love Island's Maura and Reverand Richard. The show began with teasers of what was to unfold in tonight's episode (November 22). Maura informed GK Barry that she and the Reverand had been "sleeping on the floor", before returning to the main camp to inform the others that it was a "junk yard". Discussing the supposed hardships that Maura and Richard were enduring, Grace stated: "I don't know if Maura is going to last there." The preview then switched to a shot of Maura sporting a huge smile, seemingly having a blast. In another snippet, Richard exclaimed: "It's not exactly tea and sandwiches, is it? " continuing the pretence. He further added: "We've got no food, we've got no comfort", while other clips showed them both snug in plush-looking beds with fruit in the fridge, reports . However, it appeared that Coleen was quick to catch on as she shared with her campmates: "I got this look and it was like they're not telling us the truth. I think there's something not right." Coleen's remarks sparked a frenzy on social media. One user took to X/ and posted: "Course it's Wagatha Christie Coleen that's able to rumble them #ImACelebGet this woman in the police force, she can solve anything." Another quipped, "Coleen really is Wagatha Christie isn't she #ImACeleb," as audiences were amused by her detective skills in the jungle. Meanwhile, a third fan chimed in: "Ooh, Wagatha Christie is on the case! You can't get anything past Colleen. #ImACeleb." Someone else humorously commented: "Hahah looks like Wagatha Christie does it again and susses out what's going on in the other camp [laughing face emojis] #imaceleb." The moniker "Wagatha Christie" was bestowed upon Coleen, 38, following her public accusation against fellow WAG Rebekah Vardy for allegedly leaking private stories to the pressan event that spiralled into a court case which "gripped the nation and became a daily spectacle" in 2022. Despite Vardy's libel action against Rooney, on July 29, the High Court ruled in Rooney's favour, determining that her accusatory posts were 'substantially true'.In a surprising turn of events, reports have emerged that Intel is considering hiring Apple's top chip engineer, Johny Srouji, as the new CEO of the company. This potential move has sent shockwaves through the tech industry, as Srouji is widely regarded as a brilliant innovator and leader in the field of semiconductor technology.

Punjab bandh today: Farmers call for shutdown, check what's open and what's closedAs Stef K reflects on his journey from a rising star to a player grappling with a dwindling market value, perhaps he will find the strength and motivation to rise from the ashes and reignite his passion for the game. Only then will he have a chance to rewrite his footballing story and reclaim his rightful place among the elite.Players must be assigned female at birth or have transitioned to female before going through male puberty to compete in LPGA tournaments or the eight USGA championships for females under new gender policies published Wednesday. The policies, which begin in 2025, follow more than a year of study involving medicine, science, sport physiology and gender policy law. The updated policies would rule out eligibility for Hailey Davidson, who missed qualifying for the U.S. Women's Open this year by one shot and came up short in LPGA Q-school. Davidson, who turned 32 on Tuesday, began hormone treatments when she was in her early 20s in 2015 and in 2021 underwent gender-affirming surgery, which was required under the LPGA's previous gender policy. She had won this year on a Florida mini-tour called NXXT Golf until the circuit announced in March that players had to be assigned female at birth. People are also reading... “Can't say I didn't see this coming,” Davidson wrote Wednesday on an Instagram story. “Banned from the Epson and the LPGA. All the silence and people wanting to stay ‘neutral’ thanks for absolutely nothing. This happened because of all your silence.” LPGA commissioner Mollie Marcoux Samaan, who is resigning in January, said the new gender policy "is reflective of an extensive, science-based and inclusive approach." By making it to the second stage of Q-school, Davidson would have had very limited status on the Epson Tour, the pathway to the LPGA. The LPGA and USGA say their policies were geared toward being inclusive of gender identities and expression while striving for equity in competition. The LPGA said its working group of experts advised that the effects of male puberty allowed for competitive advantages in golf compared with players who had not gone through puberty. “Our policy is reflective of an extensive, science-based and inclusive approach,” said LPGA Commissioner Mollie Marcoux Samaan, who announced Monday that she is resigning in January. "The policy represents our continued commitment to ensuring that all feel welcome within our organization, while preserving the fairness and competitive equity of our elite competitions.” Mike Whan, the former LPGA commissioner and now CEO of the USGA, said it developed the updated policy independently and later discovered it was similar to those used by swimming, track and field, and other sports. United States Golf Association CEO Mike Whan said the new policy will prevent anyone from having "a competitive advantage based on their gender." “It starts with competitive fairness as the North star,” Whan said in a telephone interview. “We tried not to get into politics, or state by state or any of that stuff. We just simply said, ‘Where would somebody — at least medically today — where do we believe somebody would have a competitive advantage in the field?’ And we needed to draw a line. “We needed to be able to walk into any women's event and say with confidence that nobody here has a competitive advantage based on their gender. And this policy delivers that.” The “Competitive Fairness Gender Policy” for the USGA takes effect for the 2025 championship season that starts with the U.S. Women's Amateur Four-Ball on May 10-14. Qualifying began late this year, though there were no transgender players who took part. “Will that change in the years to come as medicine changes? Probably,” Whan said. “But I think today this stacks up.” The LPGA “Gender Policy for Competition Eligibility” would apply to the LPGA Tour, Epson Tour, Ladies European Tour and qualifying for the tours. Players assigned male at birth must prove they have not experienced any part of puberty beyond the first stage or after age 12, whichever comes first, and then meet limitation standards for testosterone levels. The LPGA begins its 75th season on Jan. 30 with the Tournament of Champions in Orlando, Florida. Sports Week in Photos: NBA Cup, NFL snow game and more Buffalo Bills quarterback Josh Allen, foreground right, dives toward the end zone to score past San Francisco 49ers defensive end Robert Beal Jr. (51) and linebacker Dee Winters during the second half of an NFL football game in Orchard Park, N.Y., Sunday, Dec. 1, 2024. (AP Photo/Adrian Kraus) Houston Rockets guard Jalen Green goes up for a dunk during the second half of an Emirates NBA cup basketball game against the Minnesota Timberwolves, Tuesday, Nov. 26, 2024, in Minneapolis. (AP Photo/Abbie Parr) Mari Fukada of Japan falls as she competes in the women's Snowboard Big Air qualifying round during the FIS Snowboard & Freeski World Cup 2024 at the Shougang Park in Beijing, Saturday, Nov. 30, 2024. (AP Photo/Andy Wong) South Africa's captain Temba Bavuma misses a catch during the fourth day of the first Test cricket match between South Africa and Sri Lanka, at Kingsmead stadium in Durban, South Africa, Saturday, Nov. 30, 2024. (AP Photo/Themba Hadebe) Philadelphia Eagles running back Saquon Barkley, left, is hit by Baltimore Ravens cornerback Marlon Humphrey, center, as Eagles wide receiver Parris Campbell (80) looks on during a touchdown run by Barkley in the second half of an NFL football game, Sunday, Dec. 1, 2024, in Baltimore. (AP Photo/Stephanie Scarbrough) Olympiacos' Francisco Ortega, right, challenges for the ball with FCSB's David Miculescu during the Europa League league phase soccer match between FCSB and Olympiacos at the National Arena stadium, in Bucharest, Romania, Thursday, Nov. 28, 2024. (AP Photo/Andreea Alexandru) Brazil's Botafogo soccer fans react during the Copa Libertadores title match against Atletico Mineiro in Argentina, during a watch party at Nilton Santos Stadium, in Rio de Janeiro, Saturday, Nov. 30, 2024. (AP Photo/Bruna Prado) Seattle Kraken fans react after a goal by center Matty Beniers against the San Jose Sharks was disallowed due to goaltender interference during the third period of an NHL hockey game Saturday, Nov. 30, 2024, in Seattle. The Sharks won 4-2. (AP Photo/Lindsey Wasson) New York Islanders left wing Anders Lee (27), center, fight for the puck with Boston Bruins defensemen Parker Wotherspoon (29), left, and Brandon Carlo (25), right during the second period of an NHL hockey game, Wednesday, Nov. 27, 2024, in Elmont, N.Y. (AP Photo/Julia Demaree Nikhinson) Jiyai Shin of Korea watches her shot on the 10th hole during the final round of the Australian Open golf championship at the Kingston Heath Golf Club in Melbourne, Australia, Sunday, Dec. 1, 2024. (AP Photo/Asanka Brendon Ratnayake) Mathilde Gremaud of Switzerland competes in the women's Freeski Big Air qualifying round during the FIS Snowboard & Freeski World Cup 2024 at the Shougang Park in Beijing, Friday, Nov. 29, 2024. (AP Photo/Andy Wong) Lara Gut-Behrami, of Switzerland, competes during a women's World Cup giant slalom skiing race, Saturday, Nov. 30, 2024, in Killington, Vt. (AP Photo/Robert F. Bukaty) New York Islanders goaltender Ilya Sorokin cools off during first period of an NHL hockey game against the Boston Bruins, Wednesday, Nov. 27, 2024, in Elmont, N.Y. (AP Photo/Julia Demaree Nikhinson) Brazil's Amanda Gutierres, second right, is congratulated by teammate Yasmin, right, after scoring her team's first goal during a soccer international between Brazil and Australia in Brisbane, Australia, Thursday, Nov. 28, 2024. (AP Photo/Pat Hoelscher) Luiz Henrique of Brazil's Botafogo, right. is fouled by goalkeeper Everson of Brazil's Atletico Mineiro inside the penalty area during a Copa Libertadores final soccer match at Monumental stadium in Buenos Aires, Argentina, Saturday, Nov. 30, 2024. (AP Photo/Natacha Pisarenko) England's Alessia Russo, left, and United States' Naomi Girma challenge for the ball during the International friendly women soccer match between England and United States at Wembley stadium in London, Saturday, Nov. 30, 2024. (AP Photo/Kirsty Wigglesworth) Gold medalists Team Netherlands competes in the Team Sprint Women race of the ISU World Cup Speed Skating Beijing 2024 held at the National Speed Skating Oval in Beijing, Sunday, Dec. 1, 2024. (AP Photo/Ng Han Guan) Minnesota Vikings running back Aaron Jones (33) reaches for an incomplete pass ahead of Arizona Cardinals linebacker Mack Wilson Sr. (2) during the second half of an NFL football game Sunday, Dec. 1, 2024, in Minneapolis. (AP Photo/Abbie Parr) Melanie Meillard, center, of Switzerland, competes during the second run in a women's World Cup slalom skiing race, Sunday, Dec. 1, 2024, in Killington, Vt. (AP Photo/Robert F. Bukaty) South Carolina guard Maddy McDaniel (1) drives to the basket against UCLA forward Janiah Barker (0) and center Lauren Betts (51) during the first half of an NCAA college basketball game, Sunday, Nov. 24, 2024, in Los Angeles. (AP Photo/Eric Thayer) LSU punter Peyton Todd (38) kneels in prayer before an NCAA college football game against Oklahoma in Baton Rouge, La., Saturday, Nov. 30, 2024. LSU won 37-17. (AP Photo/Gerald Herbert) Los Angeles Kings left wing Warren Foegele, left, trips San Jose Sharks center Macklin Celebrini, center, during the third period of an NHL hockey game Monday, Nov. 25, 2024, in San Jose, Calif. (AP Photo/Godofredo A. Vásquez) Las Vegas Raiders tight end Brock Bowers (89) tries to leap over Kansas City Chiefs cornerback Joshua Williams (2) during the first half of an NFL football game in Kansas City, Mo., Friday, Nov. 29, 2024. (AP Photo/Ed Zurga) Get in the game with our Prep Sports Newsletter Sent weekly directly to your inbox!

Timeline: Jimmy Carter, 1924-2024

CHICAGO (AP) — Matt Duchene and Jamie Benn each had a goal and two assists, and the Dallas Stars beat the Chicago Blackhawks 5-1 on Sunday night. Jason Robertson, Evgenii Dadonov and Wyatt Johnston each had a goal and an assist for Dallas, which had lost three of four. Jake Oettinger made 24 saves. Chicago dropped its fourth consecutive game. It lost three of four in its season series against Dallas. Connor Bedard scored his 10th goal for the Blackhawks, and Arvid Soderblom made 30 stops. Next up for Bedard and company is the Winter Classic on Tuesday against St. Louis. Dallas grabbed control after Chicago forward Tyler Bertuzzi was ejected 8:11 into the second period. Bertuzzi was sent off for elbowing Stars forward Colin Blackwell in the face. Robertson made it 2-1 when he converted a wrist shot from the right circle at 8:23. It was Robertson's first goal since Dec. 14 and No. 8 on the season. Dadonov got a slick pass from Duchene and scored his 10th goal with 5:14 left in the second. Takeaways Stars: Miro Heiskanen added two assists as the Stars used their superior depth to control much of the game. Blackhawks: Once again, not enough offensive opportunities. It has been a recurring problem for the Blackhawks for much of the season so far. Key moment Johnston's stick broke right before he scored his eighth goal 10 seconds into the third period. Duchene's pass went off Johnston and past Soderblom, giving the Stars a 4-1 lead. Key stat The Stars are 12-3-0 against the Blackhawks since the 2021-22 season. Up next Dallas opens a three-game homestand on Tuesday night against Buffalo. Chicago plays St. Louis on Tuesday at Wrigley Field. ___ AP NHL: https://apnews.com/hub/nhl Jay Cohen, The Associated Press

Congress readies nearly $900 billion in defense spending

Developers will have to show that their project either helps reduce the amount of non-recyclable waste going to landfill, or replaces an older, less efficient incinerator. The move forms part of the Government’s drive to increase recycling rates, which have held at about 45% of household waste since 2015. Environment minister Mary Creagh said: “For far too long, the nation has seen its recycling rates stagnate and relied on burning household waste, rather than supporting communities to keep resources in use for longer. “That ends today, with clear conditions for new energy from waste plants – they must be efficient and support net zero and our economic growth mission, before they can get the backing needed to be built.” Developers will also have to ensure their incinerators are ready for carbon capture technology, and demonstrate how the heat they produce can be used to help cut heating bills for households. The Government expects that its “crackdown” on new incinerators will mean only a limited number are built, while still reducing the amount of waste sent to landfill and enabling the country to process the waste it produces. The Department for the Environment, Food and Rural Affairs said the country was almost at the point where it had enough waste facilities to handle non-recyclable rubbish, and so had limited need for new incinerators. But the proposals stop short of the plans included in the Conservatives’ 2024 manifesto, which committed to a complete ban on new incinerators due to their “impact on local communities” and declining demand as recycling increased.

As we celebrate this record-breaking sale, we are reminded of the timeless appeal of movies and the treasures they bring into our lives. The ruby slippers may now belong to a private collector, but their magic lives on in the hearts of fans everywhere, proving that some pieces of movie history are truly priceless.Police say searchers don’t expect to find woman in Pennsylvania sinkhole alive UNITY TOWNSHIP, Pa. (AP) — The search for a woman who is believed to have fallen into a sinkhole in western Pennsylvania has become a recovery effort after two treacherous days of digging through mud and rock produced no signs of life. Pennsylvania State Police spokesperson Trooper Steve Limani said during a news conference Wednesday that authorities no longer believe they will find 64-year-old Elizabeth Pollard alive, but that the search for her remains continues. Limani says crews have seen "no signs of any form of life or anything.” Pollard was last seen alive Monday evening when she went out looking for her cat in the village of Marguerite, about 40 miles east of Pittsburgh. WWE is seeking a bigger stage and Netflix, pushing for more live events, is providing it WWE will perform on a stage next month that could be vastly larger than its current home on cable television when it makes its “Raw” debut on Netflix. The sports entertainment company is moving to a platform with about 283 million subscribers worldwide as it departs its current home on the USA Network, which averaged 688,000 viewers in prime-time last year, according to the Nielsen company. For Netflix, onboarding the WWE is part of strategic move to air more live events on the heels of a hugely successful fight between Mike Tyson and Jake Paul that was viewed by more than 60 million people. Michigan court upholds light sentence for woman who killed dad in dispute over ride DETROIT (AP) — The Michigan Court of Appeals has declined to overturn a light jail sentence for a young woman who killed her father by burning him with a dangerous powder. Prosecutors said Megan Imirowicz was upset when her father couldn’t drive her to a hair appointment before her 18th birthday party. Imirowicz was sentenced to only a year in jail in 2023. She actually spent more than a year in custody because she was locked up before trial and while awaiting her punishment in suburban Detroit. Sumo wrestlers bring 1,500 years of tradition to London as the sport has an international moment LONDON (AP) — London’s Royal Albert Hall is preparing to host a different kind of spectacle: Sumo wrestling. Wrestlers put on an exhibition of heavyweight grappling to promote a tournament scheduled for next October. It marks only the second time an elite five-day tournament will be held outside Japan. The first was held in 1991 at the same venue. Organizers are hoping to whip up the kind of excitement that was generated three decades ago, when the deeply ritualistic sport attracted sell-out crowds and a national television audience. The end of an Eras tour approaches, marking a bittersweet moment for Taylor Swift fans NASHVILLE, Tenn. (AP) — The global phenomenon that is Taylor Swift’s Eras Tour is coming to an end after the popstar performed more than 150 shows across five continents over nearly two years. Since launching the tour in 2023, Swift has shattered sales and attendance records. It's even created such an economic boom that the Federal Reserve took note. But for many who attended the concerts, and the millions more who eagerly watched on their screens, the tour also became a beacon of joy. It's become a chance not only to appreciate Swift’s expansive music career, but also celebrate the yearslong journey fans have taken with her. Jury revisits key videos in NYC subway chokehold death trial NEW YORK (AP) — Jurors have asked to review police and bystander video at the heart of the New York City chokehold manslaughter case against Daniel Penny. The request came during a second day of deliberations Wednesday. The anonymous jury also asked to rehear part of a city medical examiner’s testimony. The request included testimony about her decision to issue a death certificate without getting toxicology test results for Jordan Neely. He was the agitated subway rider whom Penny held him around the neck for roughly six minutes. Penny has pleaded not guilty to manslaughter and criminally negligent homicide. Prosecutors say he recklessly killed Neely. Penny's defense maintains he was justified in acting to protect fellow subway riders from Neely. Relatives hunt for the missing after Guinea stadium crush amid fears official death toll is too low CONAKRY, Guinea (AP) — Kambaly Kouroumah was searching a local morgue for his teenage brother, Adama, who died after chaos erupted at a soccer game in southern Guinea’s Nzerekore city. Adama, 15, was among 56 people that officials said were killed in Sunday's crush, although rights groups reported a death toll nearly three times higher. Local media, rights groups and witnesses say security forces used tear gas to respond after fans began to throw stones to protest a referee's decision during the soccer game that was organized in honor of Guinea's junta leader, Col. Mamadi Doumbouya. Many of the dead were crushed as they tried to escape through the stadium gates, videos showed. Power shortages in Ecuador are melting away the future of a small town’s ice-cream industry SALCEDO, Ecuador (AP) — Ice-cream production in this quiet Ecuadorian town began in the mid-20th century in a convent for Franciscan nuns. The nuns sold their creamy popsicles in town to gather funds for the poor. But the people of Salcedo saw a business opportunity and began experimenting with new flavors and techniques, establishing a thriving popsicle industry that has made their small town famous among ice-cream lovers. But now, the South American nation is struggling with a relentless wave of power cuts that threaten the future of Salcedo’s ice-cream industry, melting away its dreams of a more prosperous future. Senegalese artisans in the spotlight as they exhibit for the first time at a prestigious art event DAKAR, Senegal (AP) — For the artistic and cultural elites of the West African nation of Senegal, the monthlong Dakar Biennale of Contemporary African Arts is a celebratory moment. But it wasn’t until this year that the local artisans in the Soumbedioune crafts market, just off the Corniche and at the doorstep on the Medina working-class neighborhood, realized what the Biennale was. Craftsmanship is deeply rooted in the country’s culture, but its role has declined in recent years. As living costs rise, many Senegalese opt for cheaper, Chinese-imported products. And those that can afford it buy Western clothes and furniture to mark their social status. Eminem's mother Debbie Nelson, whose rocky relationship fueled the rapper's lyrics, dies at age 69 Debbie Nelson, the mother of rapper Eminem whose rocky relationship with her son was known widely through his song lyrics, has died. She was 69. Eminem’s longtime representative Dennis Dennehy confirmed Nelson’s death in an email on Tuesday. He did not provide a cause of death, although Nelson had battled lung cancer. Nelson’s fraught relationship with her son, whose real name is Marshall Mathers III, has been no secret since the Detroit rapper became a star. Nelson brought and settled two defamation lawsuits over Eminem’s statements about her in magazines and on radio talk shows. In her 2008 book, “My Son Marshall, My Son Eminem,” she attempted to set the record straight.IND vs AUS 4th Test: Melbourne Cricket Ground's Record Attendance Breaks 87-Year-Old All-Time Record

Furthermore, the rise of online platforms and technology has also had a profound impact on the second-hand home market in Beijing. Many real estate agencies and platforms have introduced innovative solutions to simplify the home-buying process, making it easier for buyers and sellers to connect and transact. This digital transformation has contributed to the increased visibility and accessibility of second-hand homes, further fueling the growth of transactions in the market.

Introduction:In the year 2024, there were activities galore in the music industry, with a number of shows and festivals across the country. To crown it all, there were appearances by numerous international artists who graced the country’s venues. Event organisers and promoters deserve to be commended for doing their best to attract some of the most trending artists to Malawi. Some came for the first time while for others such as South African amapiano queen Nkosazana Daughter, it was the second time. The Amaphutha hit-maker renewed her links with her Malawian fans when she headlined the Castel Malawi Pomme Bash at Bingu International Convention Centre in Lilongwe. Daughter made her first appearance in Malawi three years ago when she performed at the Sand Music Festival in Mangochi. If there is one artist who hogged the limelight big time in 2024, it is South African amapiano star Young Stunna. But the Adiwele star disappointed both his fans and event organisers Beerland Festival when he failed to show up at Moneymen Ground in Blantyre at the eleventh hour. The organisers were thrown off balance as they struggled to contain the situation which was clearly becoming a crisis. Fun-lovers had already bought their tickets for the show and some had already made their way into the venue when news broke that the South African star had failed to make it. Patrons were told the artist had missed his connecting flight to Malawi. However, this did not convince the audience. The organisers had no choice but to proceed with a ‘makeshift’ event headlined by local artists. But months later, Stunna tried to make amends by performing at Scallas’ Café in Blantyre. His approach and execution was a message that he was in town to offset his debt with Malawians. After his appearance, talk of his initial no-show died naturally. Meanwhile, the rising amapiano culture in South Africa has seen the birth of some exciting talents. Among those are Leemckrazy and Eemoh. Leemckrazy, famed for his song Ebasini, was the headline act during the Beerland Festival organised by Piano Fiesta at Moneymen Ground. He came to Malawi at the peak of his career in his native South Africa. As such, local music lovers were able to relate with his songs easily. The connection between his performance and party-goers was impressive. Another trending artist who visited Malawi is Eemoh. The Mazithokonze creator was on call during the inaugural Illusionz Beach Festival at Kingfisher Inn in Mangochi. The vibe that he brought was simply refreshing and memorable. DJ Tira and DJ Maphorisa performed alongside Eemoh. It is not usual to have such big names share a platform. And although their fellow countryman Kabza De Small was a no show, organisers staged an exceptional event. During the year, popular Nigerian artist Magixx made his first appearance on the Malawian scene. He was the headliner during the returning of the Urban Music People (UMP) Festival at Cape Mclear in Mangochi. The Nigerian had the misfortune of sharing the stage with local sensation Onesimus. It was clear the Malawian stole the limelight and did not earn the applauds he expected. Two more artists from South Africa, Focalist and Afro-jazz artist Simmy also made their way to Malawi. Focalist shared the stage with rapper Gwamba during his Best of Gwamba Concert at Civo Stadium in Lilongwe while Simmy headlined the Standard Bank organised Kumbali Live Concert also in Lilongwe. But Jamaican reggae music icon Burning Spear brought the most excitement to Malawi. After decades in the game and a career that has seen him trot around the world, it was announced the artist was coming to Malawi in October. Initially, there was doubt about the news until show promoters came out to confirm his planned performance. The rasta community in Malawi went into an overdrive as days of the show drew closer. Colourful street parades and gatherings replete with nyabingi chants were organised in the honour of Burning Spear’s coming. And they ensured that they did nothing less when they welcomed him at Kamuzu International Airport in Lilongwe. The whole airport space was transformed into a red, green and yellow arena, colours of the Rastafarian faith. At least they lived to see Burning Spear perform in living colour.As the case continues to unfold, the villagers remain divided in their opinions, with some casting doubt on the allegations and others calling for a thorough investigation to uncover the truth. The mystery surrounding Emily's disappearance and sudden reappearance has captivated the community, leaving many wondering what truly happened during the 13 years she was missing.Xiaomi, a leading technology company known for its smartphones and other smart devices, has set its sights on the automotive industry with the announcement of its first SUV - the YU7. This move marks a major expansion for the company into the highly competitive and lucrative automotive market. The YU7 is expected to hit the market next summer, and Xiaomi is already generating a lot of excitement and anticipation among consumers and industry experts alike.