McGill runs for 2TDs and North Texas becomes bowl eligible by beating Temple 24-17We need to talk about capitalism. Why won’t Labour do it?Field hockey, soccer name 2024 Tri-Valley League all-starsSenator Alli Celebrates Oyo APC Leader, BAO At 85
Delta Capital Partners Welcomes Accomplished Professionals to C-SuiteJustus McNair's midcourt 3-pointer at the buzzer gives Valparaiso a 76-73 win over Western MichiganSomehow, the end of the year has returned, so we thought that now was the perfect time to take a look at the best movies of 2024. It’s been quite a year for cinema; there have been some awesome action movies , dynamic dramas, and sensational sequels. Horror and animation have both dominated the box office , while superhero movies (or one at least) have managed to cling on just about. But what were the best movies of the year? Well to work this out, we used popcorn to bribe each member of the TV and movies team into nominating ten movies from 2024 (based on US releases). After that, the senior team got to work refining the list, and after several intense hours of debate (which mostly involved yelling at each other), they emerged with a list of what they consider to be the most fantastic flicks of the year. Now, not all of our favorites are going to get their flowers (sorry , Trap fans) but if you didn’t get a ticket for these films when they were in theaters, you messed up. Note: We’re well aware that it’s November, and there are lots of movies still to be released – Mufasa, Sonic 3, and Kraven immediately spring to mind – so keep this list bookmarked, as we’ll be updating it throughout what’s left of 2024. 25. Dune: Part Two Director: Denis Villeneuve Cast: Timothée Chalamet, Zendaya, Stellan Skarsgård, Rebecca Ferguson, Austin Butler, Florence Pugh, Dave Bautista, Javier Bardem What it’s about: Following the Harkonnen attack on Arrakis, Paul must learn the ways of the Fremen in the hopes of uniting the tribes if he ever wants to take back his birthright. Related: Why we like it: If we were ranking the movies of 2024 by ambition, then Dune: Part Two would top the list. Everything about Villeneuve’s second trip to Arrakis is bigger and bolder than the first – from cinematographer Greig Fraser’s sweeping visuals to the grandiose action scenes and Hans Zimmer’s bombastic booming score. Yet arguably, what makes this film truly great is how Villeneuve confidently takes author Frank Herbert’s text and the labyrinthian lore of Dune and makes it into something everyone and anyone can understand. My favorite part, though? Austin Butler’s creepy Stellan Skarsgård impression. Read our Dune 2 review here. Words by Tom Percival 24. Haikyuu!! The Dumpster Battle Director: Susumu Mitsunaka Cast: Ayumu Murase, Kaito Ishikawa, Yuki Kaji (Japanese) / Bryson Baugus, Scott Gibbs, Clint Bickham (English) What it’s about: The Wildcats and the Crows finally face off in a match that epitomizes youthful competition and the beauty of our high school years. Why we like it: If there’s one game Haikyuu!! fans were waiting for, it’s this one, and the big screen gives everyone a chance to shine. The thrilling plays and dramatic strategizing are heightened through memories of how each player got here – a reminder that everyone has a story to tell on the court and off. Words by Anthony McGlynn Read our Haikyuu!! The Dumpster Battle review here. 23. Rebel Ridge Director: Jeremy Saulnier Cast: Aaron Pierre, Don Johnson, AnnaSophia Robb, David Denman, James Cromwell What it’s about: Terry Richmond, an ex-Marine, cycles to Shelby Springs to bail his cousin out of jail. When he’s rammed off the road by two cops, they detain his money and refuse to give it back, as ordered by their corrupt chief. He’s left with one option: “I gotta haunt these motherf**kers myself.” Why we like it: Rebel Ridge is one of the best movies Netflix has ever released: a smart, teeth-gnawingly tense, and cathartic actioner that feels like the 21st century’s first proper answer to First Blood, with an intelligent, no-less badass lead and Johnson at his smarmiest and best. Did I put too much sauce on that? “Nah.” Words by Cameron Frew 22. The Apprentice Director: Ali Abbasi Cast: Sebastian Stan, Jeremy Strong, Maria Bakalova What it’s about: The Apprentice is an origin story about Donald Trump’s ascension up New York’s property ladder, as well as his entry into high society, all with the help of notorious lawyer Roy Cohn. Why we like it: The Apprentice announces itself as a “classic American horror story” but the movie also manages to be a disturbing cautionary tale about the dark side of the American Dream. Sebastian Stan imbues Donald Trump with just enough charm and charisma to explain his success. However, the film also posits that Roy Cohn ultimately made the man we know today, drawing a line from his words, advice, and life lessons directly to the White House. Read our The Apprentice review here. Words by Chris Tilly 21. Kinds of Kindness Director: Yorgos Lanthimos Cast: Emma Stone, Jesse Plemons, Margaret Qualley, Willem Dafoe, Hunter Schafer What it’s about: A trilogy of stories woven into one overarching thread, a man tries to take his own life, a cop’s wife returns home a different person, and a woman looks for someone supernatural. Why we like it: If you’re a fan of Lanthimos’ earlier work like Dogtooth and The Lobster, you’re going to love Kinds of Kindness. Much more grounded in reality than The Favourite and Poor Things, this triptych of tales still isn’t for the faint of heart. I actually can’t pick a favorite of the three... Stone and Plemons have clearly studied at the Tilda Swinton school of chameleonic acting. Read our Kinds of Kindness review here. Words by Jasmine Valentine 20. Maria Director: Pablo Larraín Cast: Angelina Jolie, Haluk Bilginer, Alba Rohrwacher, Kodi Smit-McPhee What it’s about: Following the final days of opera singer Maria Callas before her death, a fictional camera crew recounts her life through a tour of 1970s Paris. Why we like it: I saw this a month before writing this piece, and I still feel like I’m crying. Jolie looks to be Mikey Madison’s stiffest competition in the race for Best Actress, thanks to her emotionally eviscerating portrayal of Maria Callas. The third in his 20th-century women trilogy, Larraín is an expert at choosing a moment in time and painfully unpicking it, and the results are arguably his best of the bunch. Words by Jasmine Valentine 19. Gladiator 2 Director: Ridley Scott Cast: Paul Mescal, Denzel Washington, Pedro Pascal What it’s about: The son of Maximus returns to the arena a decade or so after his father’s death, ready to avenge his fallen wife and take down the Roman army, all while trying to survive under the watchful eye of gladiator showman Macrinus. Why we like it: Gladiator 2 was one of my personal most anticipated movies of the year, and it didn’t disappoint. It brought Ridley back onto the good side of many waning fans and brought in some of Hollywood’s hottest current talent to make the historical drama dramatic again. No, it’s not perfect, but with the bloody violence and scheming characters, there’s an element of opera to Gladiator 2 that can’t be ignored. And that’s all without mentioning Denzel Washington, who elevates the movie to dastardly heights. Come for Paul Mescal in a tunic; stay for flesh-hungry monkeys. Read our Gladiator 2 review here. Words by Jessica Cullen 18. Blink Twice Director: Zoë Kravitz Cast: Naomi Ackie, Channing Tatum, Alia Shawkat, Christian Slater What it’s about: Tech billionaire Slater King invites cocktail waitress Frida to join a group of friends on his private island. But what starts out as a dream vacation soon turns into a nightmare when Frida notices strange occurrences, descending into a sinister struggle for survival. Why we like it: Kravitz strikes the perfect balance of social commentary and entertainment in her directorial debut. Ultimately, Blink Twice is about abuses of power and the female experience, but it’s never preachy, instead weaving these themes into a truly suspenseful, entertaining, and trippy ride. All of this culminates in an ending you won’t see coming but will find cathartic. If nothing else, it’s the most accurate portrayal of the phenomenon all smokers will know too well: keeping track of your lighter. Read our Blink Twice review here. Words by Daisy Phillipson 17. Hit Man Director: Richard Linklater Cast: Glen Powell, Adria Arjona, Austin Amelio, Retta, Sanjay Rao What it’s about: Based on the true story of Gary Johnson, Hit Man follows a shy college professor who goes undercover with the New Orleans police as a fake hitman. Along the way, though, he falls in love with a prospective client, and things get very complicated very quickly. Why we like it: Despite its relatively novel premise, Hit Man feels like a triumphant throwback to the character studies of the 90s. It’s a film that embraces the weird and wonderful without needing to resort to over-the-top action or silly spectacle. Instead, it relies on the natural charm of its leading man, Glen Powell – who’s clearly having a lot of fun stretching his acting muscles (instead of just his abs) – to tell a brilliantly dark story that’s got a surprising amount of depth for a Netflix comedy. Read our Hit Man review here. Words by Tom Percival 16. Conclave Director: Edward Berger Cast: Ralph Fiennes, Stanley Tucci, John Lithgow, Isabella Rossellini, Carlos Diehz What it’s about: When the Pope dies, Cardinal Lawrence organizes a papal conclave to elect a new pontiff. As days pass and votes mount, candidates rise and fall under the weight of their scandals and hunger for power – but they must choose a new Holy Father, whatever it takes. Why we like it: These wannabe popes are devious contradictions; as James 1:26 says, those who do not keep a tight rein on their tongues deceive themselves and their religion. But that’s part of Conclave’s unique, brilliant alchemy: its drama is divine, as tasty as a whisper, and rich as any parable. Certainty may be a sin, but this is undoubtedly a banger. Words by Cameron Frew 15. Strange Darling Director: JT Mollner Cast: Kyle Gallner, Willa Fitzgerald, Barbara Hershey What it’s about: Following a twisted one-night stand, a sick serial killer hunts his prey in a terrifying game of cat-and-mouse. Why we like it: Strange Darling does for serial murder movies what Pulp Fiction did for the crime genre, messing with chronology and hopping back and forth in time to add twists, turns, and depth to what’s ultimately a quite simple story. Writer-director JT Mollner’s ingenious approach to the material is matched by a pair of star-making turns from his leads, with Kyle Gallner and Willa Fitzgerald delivering two of 2024’s very best performances. Read our Strange Darling review here. Words by Chris Tilly 14. I Saw the TV Glow Director: Jane Schoenbrun Cast: Justice Smith, Brigette Lundy-Paine What it’s about: In 1996, Owen is entranced by The Pink Oqaque, a hazy, late-night YA series. He befriends Maddy, a troubled teen and fellow fan, but as years pass by the line between reality and fiction starts to blur as much as their sense of self. Why we like it: One of the decade’s rare, true masterpieces; a movie that reckons with the flesh-and-heart-festering fears of a generation in horrifying, singular fashion. It’s also beautiful; a haunting balm for those who’ve sought refuge in a story, a fable for those who’ve lost touch with (or over-depended on) the comfort of that obsession. As the credits rolled, I couldn’t speak, nor could I move – as the tears dried into my face, I simply saw the TV’s glow fade to black. Words by Cameron Frew 13. The First Omen Director: Arkasha Stevenson Cast: Nell Tiger Free, Tawfeek Barhom, Sônia Braga What it’s about: An American nun travels to an orphanage in Rome where it’s increasingly clear the Devil is at work. Why we like it: The Omen might be usurped for the best installment of its own franchise. The mystery underpinning Stevenson’s prequel is engaging, becoming ever more so as the clues arrive. Visceral, erogenous imagery pops out like intrusive thoughts, dragging us into the seedy underbelly. Something wicked isn’t coming; it’s here. Read our The First Omen review here. Words by Anthony McGlynn 12. Furiosa Director: George Miller Cast: Anya Taylor-Joy, Chris Hemsworth, Tom Burke What it’s about: Years before the events of Mad Max: Fury Road, a young Furiosa attempts to avenge her mother’s murder at the hands of the sadistic Dementus. Why we like it: Most people went into Furiosa hoping for two things. One: a killer villain performance from Chris Hemsworth and an action-packed ride through the wasteland. Furiosa delivered both in spades. Hemsworth is a scenery-chewing antagonist for the ages, screaming and kicking and smiling his way into our memories. Furiosa’s adrenaline-fuelled race through the desert is nothing short of spectacular, following perfectly from Mad Max’s blood soaked and sandy chaos. Read our Furiosa review here. Words by Jessica Cullen 11. Twisters Director: Lee Isaac Chung Cast: Daisy Edgar-Jones, Glen Powell, Anthony Ramos, Brandon Perea, Maura Tierney, Sasha Lane What it’s about: Retired storm chaser Kate Carter is called back into action by her old friend, who’s working on groundbreaking technology that will allow meteorologists to predict dangerous tornadoes. However, when Kate meets charismatic social media star Tyler Owens, she realizes she might not be working for the good guys. Why we like it: Twisters or Twister$, as it’s come to be known in at least one group chat I’m in, blew audiences away when it roared into theaters this summer. While many expected a cheap cash-in (myself included. Sorry, I’m a cynic at heart), the naysayers were silenced by Isaac Chung’s category-5 movie, which balanced gale force spectacle with memorable characters and a tender romance. When you combine that with Edgar-Jones and Powell’s incredible chemistry, you’ve got the perfect conditions for the storm movie of the century. If we had one complaint, it’s that Spielberg denied us that kiss! I guess it proves everyone makes mistakes. Read our Twisters review here. Words by Tom Percival 10. The Wild Robot Director: Chris Sanders Cast: Lupita Nyong’o, Pedro Pascal, Kit Connor, Bill Nighy, Catherine O’Hara, Matt Berry What it’s about: ROZZUM Unit 7134 (“Roz” for short), a domestic service robot, crash-lands on an island inhabited exclusively by animals. She struggles to find a purpose until she accidentally crushes a goose nest, leaving a single egg. Together with a lone fox, she raises the young gosling until it’s time for the migration. Why we like it: The Wild Robot made me cry not once, not twice, but thrice – it may even be DreamWorks’ best film since Shrek 2. It has the studio’s magic sauce: a jaw-dropping voice ensemble (you won’t recognize them until the credits, and then you’ll shout, ‘That was them ?’), dazzling visuals, and an irresistibly emotional story that speaks two universal, all-ages languages: love and kindness. “Sometimes to survive, we must become more than we are programmed to be.” Words by Cameron Frew 9. Woman of the Hour Director: Anna Kendrick Cast: Anna Kendrick, Daniel Zovatto, Tony Hale What it’s about: Based on the real-life TV appearance of Rodney Alcala (aka the Dating Game Killer), the film follows Cheryl Bradshaw, a young woman who finds herself on a dating show and comes face to face with an undiscovered serial killer. Why we like it: As is the case with most years, true crime was a go-to throughout 2024, with a countless supply of documentaries and horror movies surrounding killers. But Woman of the Hour was one of the most earnest and careful explorations of a real-life case yet, and Anna Kendrick’s impressive directorial debut proved she really has something to say. The case of Rodney Alcala is a lengthy and truly awful example of human nature, but Kendrick perfectly examined his character through one main event: his real-life appearance on a dating show. It’s an intense journey from start to finish but truly succeeded in giving us the scariest scene of 2024 . Read our Woman of the Hour review here. Words by Jessica Cullen 8. Deadpool & Wolverine Director: Shawn Levy Cast: Ryan Reynolds, Hugh Jackman, Emma Corrin, Matthew Macfadyen. What it’s about: When Deadpool learns that the TVA plans on pruning his dying timeline, the Merc’ With A Mouth goes on the hunt for the only person in the multiverse who can help him save the day: Wolverine. Why we like it: The MCU’s been in a rough spot for a while now, and Kevin Feige turned to Marvel Jesus, aka Deadpool, to save the day. Did Deadpool deliver? Did he ever! Wild, irreverent, and profane, the Merc’ With A Mouth’s first foray into the wider Marvel Universe was a resounding success and every bit as filthy and violent as its predecessors. Even better, the film performed a miracle and gave us what we’d been waiting for for over two decades: Hugh Jackman’s derriere in yellow spandex. He might not convert non-believers to the church of Marvel, but Deadpool has risen, and he’s here to save the MCU from its sins. Read our Deadpool & Wolverine review here. Words by Tom Percival 7. Anora Director: Sean Baker Cast: Mikey Madison, Mark Eidelstein, Yuriy Borisov What it’s about: A sex worker from Brooklyn meets and marries the son of a Russian oligarch, but trouble brews when his family finds out and makes it their mission to get the union annulled. Why we like it: Through his movies about sex workers and figures on the sidelines of society, it feels like writer-director Sean Baker has been working towards Anora throughout his career. The result is his most complete work to date; a beguiling character study bursting out of a wild account of young love, and a film that’s funny, tense, sad, then ultimately profound via one of 2024’s most thought-provoking endings. Words by Chris Tilly 6. Love Lies Bleeding Director: Rose Glass Cast: Kristen Stewart, Katy O’Brien, Ed Harris, Dave Franco, Jena Malone What it’s about: Gym manager Lou falls head over heels for bodybuilder Jackie when she mysteriously arrives in town. However, Lou’s criminal family grabs hold, leading to more violence than love. Why we like it: Be still my lesbian heart. Remember how Wachowski’s Bound managed to infuse life-threatening crime with a happy sapphic ending? Glass manages more of the same here, only upping the visual ante. It’s full of humor, gym sweats, and psychedelic hallucinations – and she doesn’t hold back on the gore either. Personally, it’s a K Stew performance I’ll never forget. Read our Love Lies Bleeding review here. Words by Jasmine Valentine 5. Wicked Director : Jon M. Chu Cast: Cynthia Erivo, Ariana Grande, Jonathan Bailey, Marissa Bode, Michelle Yeoh, and Jeff Goldblum What it’s about: A prequel (of sorts) to the Wizard of Oz, Wicked tells the story of Elphaba and reveals the real reason she became the Wicked Witch of the West. Why we like it: Adapting what’s widely considered the greatest stage musical of all time was always going to be a tall order, but Jon M. Chu proved he had the heart, brains, and courage to get the job done. Technically, it’s wonderful: the music is gorgeous, the choreography intricate, and the production design immaculate (although it doesn’t always look it). Yet what really makes Wicked sing (pun intended) is Cynthia Erivo and Ariana Grande’s magical double act. The pair just have such enchanting chemistry that it’s hard not to fall under their spell and that captivating charm bleeds into the rest of the film. If you’ve been putting off seeing it, don’t because I promise you you’ll be blown away like Dorothy’s house. Read our Wicked review here Words by Tom Percival 4. The Substance Director: Coralie Fargeat Cast: Demi Moore, Margaret Qualley, Dennis Quaid What it’s about: Elisabeth Sparkle is 50 years old – in showbiz, she’s past her sell-by date. However, there may be a solution: the substance, a mysterious drug that births a younger, better version of herself who immediately finds all of the fame she lost. She (well, they) just has to remember one thing: “You are one.” Why we like it: Fargeat never respects the balance, and that’s the pumped-up, pulpy beauty of The Substance; diabolically funny, disgusting, and deeply tragic, with a career-best performance from Moore, a star-certifying turn from Qualley, and Quaid at his most exquisitely despicable. Here, self-loathing and narcissism are two sides of the same coin; it’s not about the (body-)horror of aging, but rather the fragility of one’s worth, in our eyes and theirs. Read our Substance review here. Words by Cameron Frew 3. Longlegs Director: Osgood Perkins Cast: Maika Monroe, Nicolas Cage, Alicia Witt What it’s about: FBI agent Lee Harker uses her uncanny instincts to investigate an ongoing series of strange killings by the serial killer known as Longlegs. But as she digs deeper, she finds herself more connected to the case and killer than she could have ever imagined. Why we like it: Accusations of being “overhyped” and “not scary enough” are too harsh for a movie like Longlegs. Simply put, it’s terrifying, atmospheric, and original, and that should be enough to earn its place on any best-of-the-year list. Maika Monroe is magnetic as a put-upon FBI agent, and although Cage’s appearance as Longlegs might have been overused, he completely transformed. The craft behind the movie only served to make it more tense, more disturbing, and it truly worked. It raised a lot of questions it didn’t necessarily answer, but that just makes Longlegs one of the most enigmatic and unforgettable horror movies of the year, and earned Oz Perkins a place on everyone’s radar (if he wasn’t there already). Read our Longlegs review here. Words by Jessica Cullen 2. Challengers Director: Luca Guadagnino Cast: Zendaya, Josh O’Connor, Mike Faist What it’s about: A tennis star whose career was cut short by injury tries to end her husband’s losing streak by seeking help from her ex, who just happens to be his former best friend. Why we like it: Challengers is one of the best sports movies ever made, thanks to some pulsating tennis that puts the audience slap-bang in the middle of the matches. That athletic action is underpinned by high drama, with games on the court fuelled by a love triangle off it, between rising stars Zendaya, John O’Conner, and Mike Faist. All three of whom the camera adores. The result is the sexiest film of the year, and one of director Luca Guadagnino’s very best. Read our Challengers review here. Words by Chris Tilly 1. Terrifier 3 Director: Damien Leone Cast: David Howard Thornton, Lauren LaVera, Elliott Fullam, Samantha Scaffidi What it’s about: After surviving Art the Clown’s Halloween massacre, Sienna and her brother Jonathan attempt to recover, only to be thrust back into a nightmare when Art makes his return. To make matters worse, it’s Christmas... and Art’s got his accomplice, Vicky. Why we like it: Even if you’re not a horror fan (sorry for your loss), there’s no denying the artistry that goes into creating eye-wincingly gruesome, extravagant kills in the Terrifier movies. With a bigger budget to play with, Leone’s threequel takes things up a notch, resulting in some of the grisliest scenes ever to hit the big screen. But what elevates Terrifier 3 beyond the guts and gore (and glass shards) is the heart of this chaotic circus. Art is a villain of the ages, at once a demonic killer and loveable clown; a nightmare with a wink. Thornton’s performance reaches fever pitch in this installment, pushing the boundaries of what’s possible with zero dialogue. It’s for all these reasons and more that Terrifier 3 is not only the best horror of 2024 but the best movie overall (and arguably even the best Christian flick if you squint hard enough). Read our Terrifier 3 review here. Words by Daisy Phillipson
YS Jagan Mohan Reddy has sent legal notices to two news publications Former Andhra Pradesh Chief Minister Jagan Mohan Reddy on Saturday sent legal notices to two publications demanding an unconditional apology for spreading defamatory, false, and scandalous reports about him in connection with the legal proceedings initiated by the US Securities and Exchange Commission (SEC) concerning the Adani Group. The notice firmly rejected these claims as false and accused the newspapers of circulating malicious and misleading information about the YSR Congress Party (YSRCP) president. "The insinuation and further allegations purported to be sourced from the judicial proceedings in the US are clearly aimed at causing severe damage to my client's reputation as an individual and as a head of the political party being YSRCP, and also to malign my client's functioning as the chief minister of the state between 2019 to 2024," the notice served by Mr Reddy's lawyer to Andhrajyothi newspaper said. The notice to the other newspaper, Eenadu, worded in similar lines, also said, "... The motive behind the patently false and scandalous allegations is actuated by your animosity, as a newspaper entity and as individuals, towards my client and his family." "While the motivation is to serve as the media arm of the Telugu Desam political party and its supremo Mr N Chandrababu Naidu, the publications by Eenadu for the past 20 years would clearly indicate, that you, as an entity are aligned politically to the fortunes of the Telugu Desam party and more particularly its supremo and the present Hon'ble Chief Minister Mr N Chandrababu Naidu," the notice to Eenadu said. The legal notices slammed the publications for carrying "untruthful material with intent and prior knowledge that it would cause harm to my client's reputation seeking to allude to bribes purported to have been paid for securing such agreements and the alleged role of state government securing such contract". The notices come in response to reports saying state officials allegedly took bribes for solar power purchases when Mr Reddy was Chief Minister. Rebutting the reports, the notice shared details of the power purchase agreement, saying it was an agreement among governments and no third party was involved in it. The YSRCP has already strongly refuted allegations made by Telugu Desam Party (TDP) and Eenadu that the previous state government allegedly accepted a power supply offer "hastily" and the offer put a huge burden of Rs 1.1 lakh crore. Promoted Listen to the latest songs, only on JioSaavn.com The YSRCP in a statement said the Eenadu newspaper used disinformation spread by the ruling TDP to allege that an offer made by Solar Energy Corporation of India Ltd (SECI) in September 2021 to supply power at Rs 2.49 per kWh was accepted by the then state government very hastily within a seven-hour period, without allegedly taking adequate time to consider the strengths and shortcomings of the proposal. The report also alleged the proposal was very adverse to the interests of the public, with a burden of Rs 1.1 lakh crore. The YSRCP has said the allegations were made despite the fact that one, the tariff was lower than all the sources of power to Andhra Pradesh discoms (power distribution companies) till date and two, despite the offer also conveying the central government's special incentive of waiver of inter-state transmission charges.JD Martin Expands Representation of Dialight into North and South Carolina
This Timberwolves roster is different than the one from a year ago. That much is obvious in games, as Karl-Anthony Towns’ consistent scoring and general size is missed, as is the playmaking and ball security of guys like Kyle Anderson and Jordan McLaughlin. ADVERTISEMENT But their absences have been felt in the locker room, as well. Towns was a consistent source of positivity for the team. Anderson was one of the loudest vocal leaders. The latter can be especially difficult to replace, especially because it can be uncomfortable to speak up when things are going poorly and something needs to change. That was the position Anthony Edwards has found himself in early this season. Edwards has been praised for his leadership through his first four years on Minnesota’s roster. Mostly, that all came via positivity and example. Edwards can be coached hard, which gave the greenlight for the coaches to treat everyone else the same way. Edwards was also quick to credit his teammates around him for their contributions to the cause, and was eager and willing to spend time with and talk to anyone on the roster, players No. 1-15. He’ll also stand up for any of his teammates if the occasion ever arises. That’s why he has been so beloved in the locker room and why he was viewed as such a leader, even at his young age. ADVERTISEMENT But with Anderson’s departure, Edwards was now tasked with leading even through choppy waters. And the waves have been rather large through the first quarter of the season. Minnesota’s defense has fallen off a cliff in comparison to where it was a year ago. After never even as many as three consecutive games during the 2023-24 regular season, the Wolves endured a four-game losing skid earlier this week. At that point, words were exchanged, both publicly and privately. A halftime hash out during Minnesota’s loss Wednesday to Sacramento got the conversation rolling. Mike Conley got the dialogue started, but all indications are that Edwards was a healthy participant. Edwards noted it’s difficult to know what to say in those times. “Because you look at everybody, and everybody got a different agenda. It’s like, ‘What the (heck) am I supposed to say?’ You know what I mean?” Edwards said. “I’m trying to get better in that aspect, figure out what the hell to say to get everybody on the same agenda, because everybody right now is on different agendas. I think that’s one of the main culprits of why we’re losing, because everybody out there got their own agenda. I guess their imagination of what’s supposed to be going on, and what’s really happening.” Nickeil Alexander-Walker told reporters at Friday’s shootaround that this is the most vocal Edwards has ever been. And while the intention of everyone’s messages are pure, “sometimes it’s not always worded the right way.” ADVERTISEMENT “I think we’ve crossed that line of, ‘Man, I feel like you’re not hearing the message.’ It’s tough to be called out, because you start to feel like, ‘OK, are you saying I’m the reason?’ No one wants to be at fault,” Alexander-Walker said. “But at the end of the day, I definitely think that guys are open to hearing it better. And I think it just came from a stand point of, at a point and time in the conversation, there was a comeback. It was going back and forth now, as opposed to receiving it (and saying), ‘OK, I got you.’ That’s how it’s going to be. It’s very rare that someone is just going to be able to be called out and not have anything to say. “It’s human nature to be defensive, at the end of the day. But kind of remembering what we’re here for, and if I’m being called out, chances are I’ve got to look in the mirror and be better.” It’s a delicate dance. There has to be an environment rooted in accountability, but you also have to be sure not to lose teammates, as Jimmy Butler was criticized for doing during his short stint in Minnesota a few years ago. ADVERTISEMENT And while it’s never ideal for a team to be living through a stretch of basketball the quality of which falls significantly short of the expectation, these stretches will likely lead to growth for Edwards, if not on the court, then in the locker room. You can’t steer a ship to a title if you don’t know how to navigate turbulent tides. Day by day, loss by loss, Edwards is learning how to spin the wheel. ______________________________________________________ This story was written by one of our partner news agencies. Forum Communications Company uses content from agencies such as Reuters, Kaiser Health News, Tribune News Service and others to provide a wider range of news to our readers. Learn more about the news services FCC uses here .JD Martin is awarded new territory beginning December 1st, 2024. CHARLOTTE, N.C. , Dec. 20, 2024 /PRNewswire/ -- JD Martin is proud to announce the expansion of its partnership with Dialight , the global leader in industrial LED lighting technology, into North and South Carolina . This growth strengthens JD Martin's commitment to delivering industry-leading lighting solutions across the Southeast. JD Martin has been a trusted partner for Dialight in multiple territories, and this latest expansion enables the company to extend its reach, bringing Dialight's innovative and energy-efficient LED lighting products to distributors, contractors, and end users in these rapidly growing markets. "We are excited to expand our partnership with Dialigh t into the Carolinas," said Lance Holmes , JD Martin RVP of the Carolinas and Virginia . " Dialight's unmatched LED lighting solutions align perfectly with the needs of our customers in these regions who are prioritizing safety, energy efficiency, and operational reliability. We look forward to continuing to drive value and growth for our partners." Dialight's industrial and hazardous location lighting solutions are renowned for their durability, sustainability, and performance in even the most challenging environments. By combining JD Martin's proven market expertise with Dialight's cutting-edge technology, businesses across the Carolinas will benefit from exceptional service and product availability. To learn more about Dialight's industrial LED lighting products, visit www.dialight.com . About JD Martin JD Martin is a premier electrical manufacturer representative agency, serving 17 states with an extensive portfolio of solutions, including lighting, wire, cable, and EV infrastructure products. With a strong focus on customer service and expertise, JD Martin partners with industry leaders to deliver innovative electrical solutions to distributors, contractors, and end users. View original content to download multimedia: https://www.prnewswire.com/news-releases/jd-martin-expands-representation-of-dialight-into-north-and-south-carolina-302337510.html SOURCE JD Martin Co.
Kosovo arrests blast suspects, Serbia denies involvementAstroTurf Welcomes Tom Carroll as New Regional Sales Manager for Tri State area (Eastern Pennsylvania NJ and Delaware)
GEORGE TOWN, Cayman Islands — Hailey Van Lith scored 23 points, Sedona Prince had her second double-double of the tournament and No. 17 TCU rolled to an 87-46 victory over South Florida on Saturday night in the Cayman Island Classic. Van Lith shot 8 of 15 from the floor and had eight of TCU's 18 assists. Prince scored 17 points and grabbed 13 rebounds to go with three blocked shots and two assists. Madison Conner added 14 points and Taylor Bigby chipped in 10 for TCU (8-0), which shot 31 of 59 (52.5%) from the floor and 12 of 29 (41%) from long range. Vittoria Blasigh scored 14 points to lead South Florida (4-5). TCU built a 21-11 lead heading into the second quarter and led 40-22 at the break. Van Lith scored 10 points in the first half and Prince had eight. South Florida kept pace in the third quarter before the Horned Frog pulled away with a 24-5 fourth quarter. Van Lith scored 19 second-half points and Prince tallied 20 points, 20 rebounds, eight blocks, four assists and three steals in the Horned Frogs’ 76-68 victory over No. 3 Notre Dame in a tournament game on Friday. __ Get poll alerts and updates on the AP Top 25 throughout the season. Sign up here. AP women’s college basketball: https://apnews.com/hub/ap-top-25-womens-college-basketball-poll and https://apnews.com/hub/womens-college-basketball
The rapid rise of generative artificial intelligence (GenAI) is driving significant economic impacts and enhancing social life, but also raises concerns about multiple risks. This momentum has sparked the need for an AI governance framework to maximise the benefits of AI, while minimising its negative consequences. By ensuring responsible and ethical AI deployment, AI governance increases confidence among businesses and governments, enabling them to deliver trustworthy AI products and services to users with greater assurance. GenAI is a type of AI that can create new content such as images and videos. What is AI governance? AI governance refers to the processes, standards and guardrails that help ensure that AI systems and tools are safe and ethical. AI governance frameworks direct AI research, development and application to help ensure safety, fairness and respect for human rights, according to IBM. Effective AI governance includes oversight mechanisms that address risks such as bias, privacy infringement and misuse, while fostering innovation and building trust. An ethical AI-centred approach to AI governance requires the involvement of a wide range of stakeholders, including AI developers, users, policymakers and ethicists, ensuring that AI-related systems are developed and used to align with society's values. As AI is a product of highly engineered code and machine learning created by people, it is susceptible to human biases and errors that can result in discrimination and other harm to individuals, according to IBM. Why is AI governance important? According to the Electronic Transactions Development Agency (Etda), because AI can cause damage and make incorrect decisions, governance is needed to direct its usage. The goal is not only to ensure the successful application of AI by organisations but also to ensure they use AI with responsibility, according to Etda. IBM noted that AI systems make decisions all the time, from deciding which ads to show to determining whether to approve a loan. It is essential to understand how AI systems make decisions to hold them accountable for their decisions and help ensure that they make them fairly and ethically. Patama Chantaruck, country managing director at Accenture Thailand, said mitigating GenAI risks requires a strategic commitment to responsible AI. Research found 98% of executives acknowledge the need for a more systematic approach to manage emerging technologies ethically. To address this, organisations should establish governance frameworks, design AI systems to be trustworthy and fair, and enforce accountability at all levels, she added. "With tools to detect bias and monitor fairness, companies can uphold transparency and public trust, ensuring AI is a tool for positive, ethical impact," said Ms Patama. How is AI governance being developed in Thailand? Supachai Pathumnakul, permanent secretary for the ministry of higher education, science, research and innovation (MHESI), said one pillar in the National AI master plan is ethical, legal and social implications. The others are AI infrastructure, human capital, technology and innovation and AI promotion. Prasert Jantararuangtong, the digital economy and society (DES) minister, said Thailand recently introduced the AI Governance Guideline for Executives and the Generative AI Governance Guideline for Organizations. The guideline for organisations aims to foster a comprehensive understanding of GenAI technology in all its important dimensions. This will enable the organisations to define clear and governance-aligned approaches to applying GenAI within their operations and minimise risk. "AI represents the second era of digital transformation, offering more benefits than risks. However, it must be used carefully, consciously, and responsibly, with a focus on ethics and governance," said Sak Segkhoonthod, senior advisor at Etda's AI Governance Centre (AIGC). Thailand has made significant strides in AI governance, particularly with the establishment of its AIGC two years ago. The centre has received numerous inquiries from organisations about the legality and ethical implications of using AI tools such as ChatGPT. This underscored the urgent need for a robust framework to ensure AI adoption aligns with Unesco's ethical guidelines and international standards, Mr Sak added. Thailand developed a series of recommendations and guidelines for AI adoption, inspired by Unesco's 2021 AI ethics recommendation. These guidelines, which were approved by Thailand's government, aim to ensure AI is used ethically across Thai organisations. Starting in 2025, all government agencies in Thailand will be required to follow these standards. Additionally, Thailand collaborated with Unesco to implement the Readiness Assessment Methodology, which helps assess and guide AI adoption ethically. Mr Sak said Etda also offers to help organisations develop AI governance frameworks that are suitable for Thailand's context and in line with international policies. Why does Thailand lack an AI law? Mr Sak said Thailand is focused on understanding and keeping up with AI developments, which is why the AI law has not yet been developed. "The technology is rapidly evolving, and overregulating it could disrupt the ecosystem. We might have an AI law in the next few years," he said. However, there are governance guidelines in place to educate the public and organisations on how to adopt AI responsibly and ethically, he said. The regulators in some sectors, like healthcare, are considering specific AI regulations, as well as potential restrictions on AI use for children. The country's existing laws such as the Personal Data Protection Law, intellectual property rights and the Computer Crime Act also support liability in cases such as privacy violations or personal damage. Mr Sak said that Etda is currently working on guidelines for AI procurement. In 2024, AI adoption plans among Thai organisations reached 73.3%, up nearly 20 percentage points from the previous year, according to the AI Readiness Measurement 2024 report by Etda and the National Science and Technology Development Agency. The DES Ministry, in collaboration with the MHESI, the Education Ministry and Unesco, are co-hosting the 3rd Unesco Global Forum on the Ethics of AI 2025 in Bangkok under the theme "Ethical Governance of AI in Motion". The forum is scheduled for June 24-27, 2025, marking the first international conference of its kind in Asia-Pacific.Idaho US senator says ‘jury’s still out’ on how to handle women serving in military combatBlack Friday sales are starting to wind down, but you can still find fantastic deals on MacBooks, iPhones , iPads , Apple Watches , AirPods , and more ahead of Cyber Monday. While Apple itself rarely offers discounts (and for Black Friday, is only offering gift cards along with regular purchases), you can find some great deals at over 20% off from retailers like Amazon , Best Buy , and Walmart . Also: The best Black Friday deals: Live updates The deal-hunting team at ZDNET has found the best Apple deals available for Black Friday and Cyber Monday so you can shop smarter. We will update this list as more deals appear, so remember to bookmark this page and check out the new discounts that will arrive throughout the holiday season. Our favorite Apple deals for Black Friday 2024 Apple AirPods Pro 2 : $154 (save $95 at Walmart): Save $95 on a pair of Apple AirPods Pro 2 earbuds with spatial audio technologies and active noise cancellation. These can also be used as over-the-counter hearing aids . These are our picks for the best AirPods you can buy, and are one of the top Apple deals for under $300 we've found. Apple Watch Series 10 : $329 (save $70 at Walmart): Apple's newest Watch Series 10 is seeing savings in several colors at Walmart. Get one for $70 off for the first time since it was released in September. Apple Watch SE : $149 (save $100 at Walmart): For only $149, you can snap up a second-generation Apple Watch SE with GPS connectivity and a Midnight sport band. Apple AirPods 4 : $119 (save $10 at Amazon): It's not too often you see deals on new Apple earbuds, but you can still save $10 on Apple's brand-new AirPods 4 range, which our reviewer says "features significant improvements to sound quality, noise cancellation, and comfort." Apple MacBook Pro : $1,399 (save $200 at Best Buy): If you want to order a device from Apple's new MacBook Pro line, powered by an M4 chip and equipped with 16GB of RAM and 512GB of storage, you can save $200 at Best Buy. Three months of Apple TV, iCloud+, Apple Arcade, and Apple Music are available upon purchase. Apple 2023 MacBook Pro : $1,399 (save $200 at Amazon): If you're in the market for a MacBook Pro suitable for work and study, you can save $200 on a model with 512GB of storage. Apple AirTag four-pack : $73 (save $26 at Amazon): If you are forever losing your keys, consider this discount on a pack of Apple's AirTag tracker, our tested pick for the best Bluetooth tracker you can buy. Apple AirPods Max (Lightning) + 3 free months Apple Music and Apple Fitness+: $400 (save $150 at Best Buy): These are the best over-ear headphones for dedicated Apple users , thanks to their seamless integration with Apple devices. Apple iPad Air 11-inch : $649 (save $100 at Amazon): You can save $100 on an 11-inch iPad Air. This lightweight tablet comes with an M2 chip, a Liquid Retina display, Wi-Fi and Cellular connectivity, and 128GB of storage. Apple iPad Air 13-inch : $1,249 (save $200 at Amazon): Alternatively, save on a 13-inch model. This tablet's benefit is a massive 1TB storage capacity, as well as both Wi-Fi and cellular connectivity. Apple iPhone 16 (128GB): $0 (save $830 at Amazon): If you sign up for a Boost Mobile plan, you can pick up an iPhone 16 for free at Amazon. It is available in a range of colors. Apple 2024 iMac : $1,149 - $1,199 (save $100 - $150 at Amazon): If you need an upgrade to your Apple desktop PC, the 2024 iMac is now on sale. You can save a further $50 with a coupon. Apple 2024 MacBook Air : $1,044 (save $255 at Amazon): If you want a flagship MacBook with a fair amount of storage for a reasonable price, consider the $255 discount on a 15-inch 2024 MacBook Air model with an M3 chip and 256GB of storage. Apple AirPods 4 Current price: $119 Original price: $129 It's not too often you see deals on new Apple earbuds, but you can still save $10 on Apple's new AirPods 4 range before Cyber Monday launches. Powered by Apple's H2 chip, these earbuds provide quality audio and up to 30 hours of battery life on a single charge. Also: I've used every AirPods 4 and Pro model since launch, and here's my buying advice for 2024 Apple Watch Ultra 2 Current price: $760 Original price: $799 Smartwatch fans might be interested in a premium Apple Watch deal currently available. Over at Amazon, you can take $39 off the typical price of the Apple Watch Ultra 2. Stocks are quickly disappearing but you can still save on a 49mm GPS and Cellular model with an Olive Alpine loop. It's also our tested pick for the best Apple Watch you can buy. Review: Why the Apple Watch Ultra 2 is a near-perfect wearable Apple iPad (9th Gen) Current price: $200 Original price: $330 If you need an affordable iPad and you don't mind going back a few generations, you can save $129 -- or 39% based on the typical price -- on a classic iPad with a 10.2-inch Retina display and 64GB of storage at Best Buy. This iPad comes with Wi-Fi connectivity and an A13 Bionic chip. It's also our pick for the best budget iPad . Apple iMac M4 (2024) Current price: $1,149 (with coupon) Original price: $1,299 If you need an upgrade to your Apple desktop PC, the 2024 iMac all-in-one computer is now on sale at Amazon. You can save a further $50 with a coupon. Review: I tested the new iMac M4, and one of the standout upgrades is also the least flashy Best Black Friday MacBook deals Apple MacBook Air (2022) One of the best Apple deals is for the 2022 version of the 13-inch MacBook Air, on sale for just $749. It's got an M2 chip and 256GB of storage, and though it's not the latest model, it's still a great one, especially for the price. Apple 2024 MacBook Air : $1,049 (save $250 at Amazon): If you want a flagship MacBook with a fair amount of storage for a reasonable price, consider the $250 discount on a 13-inch 2024 MacBook Air model with an M3 chip and 512GB of storage. Apple 2023 MacBook Pro : $1,399 (save $200 at Amazon): If you're in the market for a MacBook Pro suitable for work and study, you can save $200 on a model with 512GB of storage. This model, released in 2023, is powered by an M3 chip. Apple MacBook Pro : $1,699 (save $200 at Best Buy): You can save $200 on a 14-inch MacBook Pro at Best Buy. This option comes with 18GB of RAM and 512GB of storage. Apple MacBook Pro : $1,399 (save $200 at Best Buy): If you want to order a device from Apple's new MacBook Pro line, powered by an M4 chip and equipped with 16GB of RAM and 512GB of storage, you can save $200 at Best Buy. Three months of Apple TV, iCloud+, Apple Arcade, and Apple Music are available upon purchase. The same discount is available at B&H . Apple MacBook Air : $599 (save $100 at Walmart): If you need an affordable MacBook, you will only pay $599 for a 13-inch MacBook Air powered by Apple's M1 chip. This option comes with 256GB of storage. Apple 2024 MacBook Pro : $3,099 (save $400 at Amazon): If you need one of Apple's most powerful laptops, consider the $400 discount available on a 2024 MacBook Pro model equipped with the M4 Max chip, 36GB of RAM, and 1TB of storage. Best Black Friday iPad deals Apple iPad (9th Generation) If you need an affordable iPad and don't mind going back a few generations, you can save $130 on a classic iPad with a 10.2-inch Retina display and 64GB of storage. This is our pick for the best budget iPad overall . Apple iPad Air 11-inch : $649 (save $100 at Amazon): You can save $100 on an 11-inch iPad Air. This lightweight tablet comes with an M2 chip, a Liquid Retina display, Wi-Fi and Cellular connectivity, and 128GB of storage. Apple iPad Air 13-inch : $1,249 (save $200 at Amazon): Alternatively, you can save on a 13-inch model. The discount applies to a model with Wi-Fi and cellular connectivity alongside a massive 1TB storage capacity. Apple iPad 10.9-inch : $259 (WiFi only) (save $90 at Walmart): This base model iPad debuted in 2022 with an A14 processor, Touch ID, and compatibility with the Apple Pencil. This deal only applies to the WiFi-enabled, 64 GB configuration. Apple iPad Mini : $350 (save $149 at Amazon): Looking for a cheaper iPad? Consider the $149 discount on an iPad Mini. Apple iPad Pro : $640 (save $259 at Best Buy): We've also spotted a $259 discount on an iPad Pro at Best Buy. This renewed Wi-Fi-only model comes with 256GB of storage. More Black Friday Apple deals: iPhones, AirPods, Apple Watches, and more Apple Watch Ultra 2 Get $100 off an Apple Watch Ultra 2 at Amazon right now -- our pick for the best Apple Watch overall . This model comes with GPS and Cellular connectivity. Don't forget to apply the coupon for the best discount. Apple iPhone 16 (128GB): $0 (save $830 at Amazon): If you sign up for a Boost Mobile plan, you can pick up an iPhone 16 for free at Amazon. It is available in a range of colors. Apple iPhone 16 Pro Max : T-Mobile has provided a range of deals for the iPhone 16 Pro Max, including up to $1,000 off with a suitable trade-in when you switch. Apple AirPods Pro 2 earbuds : $154 (save $95 at Amazon): Save $95 on a pair of Apple AirPods Pro 2 earbuds with spatial audio technologies and active noise cancellation. Apple Watch Series 10 : $329 (save $70 at Walmart): There is a discount available on a Series 10 Apple Watch during Black Friday. This 46mm model comes with GPS connectivity and a Black Sport Band. The same deal is available at Amazon . Apple Watch SE : $149 (save $100 at Walmart): For only $149, you can snap up a second-generation Apple Watch SE with GPS connectivity and a Midnight sport band. Apple Watch Series 9 : $310 (save $119 at Amazon): Interested in the Apple Watch Series 9? You can save almost $120 on a 45mm GPS model. Apple 2024 iMac : $1,199 (save $100 - $150 at Amazon): If you need an upgrade to your Apple desktop PC, the 2024 iMac is now on sale for $100 off. You can save a further $50 with a coupon. Best Black Friday deals at Apple Apple iPhone deals When you buy an iPhone 14, 15, or SE at Apple, you'll receive an Apple Gift Card of up to $75. Apple MacBook deals : Snap up an Apple Gift Card worth up to $200 when you buy a MacBook Air 15-inch (M3), MacBook Air 13-inch (M3), or MacBook Air 13-inch (M2). Apple iPad deals : You will receive an Apple Gift Card worth up to $100 when you buy an iPad Pro, iPad Air, or iPad (10th generation). Apple Watch SE : Apple will give you a $50 Apple Gift Card with the purchase of this smartwatch model. Apple AirPods : You will also be eligible for an Apple Gift Card of up to $75 when you purchase a pair of AirPods Max, AirPods Pro 2, or AirPods 4 earphones. Apple TV 4K, HomePod : Apple is also offering an Apple Gift Card worth up to $50 with the purchase of a 4K Apple TV or Apple HomePod. Best Black Friday Apple accessory deals Apple AirTag four-pack If you are forever losing your keys, consider this discount on a pack of Apple's AirTag tracker, our tested pick for the best Bluetooth tracker you can buy. Apple MagSafe charger : $30 (save $9 at Amazon): A MagSafe charger suitable for Apple devices, including iPhones and AirPods, is also on sale. Apple 35W Dual USB-C Port Compact Power Adapter : $39 (save $20 at Amazon): You can save $20 on an official Apple USB-C adapter at Amazon. Apple USB-C to Lightning cable : $24 (save $5 at Amazon): A $5 discount is available on a 2m USB-C to Lightning cable. Wireless CarPlay adapter for iPhone : $50 (save $40 at Amazon): Looking to make your car smarter? Consider the $40 discount on a wireless CarPlay adapter. Apple Pencil (1st Generation) : $59 (save $40 at Amazon): We've spotted the Apple Pencil, a great accessory for drawing or note-taking, available at a 40% discount at Amazon. Apple Pencil (2nd Generation) : $80 (save $49 at Amazon): You can save almost $50 on a second-generation Apple Pencil. Apple Pencil Pro : $99 (save $30 at Walmart): If you'd like a more advanced stylus, consider the $30 discount on an Apple Pencil Pro at Walmart. FAQs Black Friday launches on Nov. 29, one day after Thanksgiving, this year in the United States. Black Friday was once just a 24-hour event, but now, the sales event carries on for days. You will likely see the best deals from Nov. 29 to Dec. 2. Cyber Monday falls on Dec. 2, 2024. This post-Black Friday event often includes new deals on tech. Apple products are rarely on sale throughout the year. While we like to list deals with at least 20% off the typical RRP, Apple promotions won't always have such steep discounts. However, you can still find some great deals on Apple iPads, iPhones, accessories, and more during Black Friday. Black Friday and Cyber Monday are very similar, but they differ in terms of timing. Black Friday launches on Nov. 29, 2024, while Cyber Monday -- which always falls on the Monday straight after Black Friday week -- will launch on Dec. 2. The days in between are often called Cyber Week. This year, we're expecting many deals to hold through Black Friday and Cyber Monday -- but if you see something you want to pick up, we'd recommend doing so sooner rather than later, in case the deal does expire or the product goes out of stock. Deciding between the Apple Watch SE and Apple Watch Series 10 depends largely on your needs. The SE is an excellent budget pick, especially for just $149 on sale. It's our pick for the best Apple Watch for first-time buyers and kids. Meanwhile, the Series 10 is our pick for the best Apple Watch for most people, with its advanced health sensors and safety features, and great battery life -- and it still has a nice discount for Black Friday. We're seeing strong Apple deals at Walmart (particularly on Apple Watches), Amazon (particularly on MacBooks), and Best Buy this Black Friday. Check multiple sites to price compare. The Apple Store does offer student and educator discounts , and military and veteran discounts . However, these wouldn't apply to Apple products purchased outside the Apple Store. At ZDNET, we only write about products we like or want to buy, and we endeavor to let you know about every deal we find that we believe offers great value. Our deal-hunting experts look for deals that are at least 20% off retail price, when possible, but we also highlight deals for products that are rarely on sale, such as Apple devices. We consider customer reviews and our own hands-on product experience and conduct extensive research to ensure we only recommend the best deals. We aim to help you shop smarter and get the best return for your money. You can enjoy the in-store Black Friday and Cyber Monday sales at major retailers like Walmart, Best Buy, and Target. However, in recent years, many shoppers have opted to make their purchases online, with Amazon becoming one of the top retailers to visit. What are the best Black Friday 2024 deals? ZDNET's experts have been searching through Black Friday sales live now to find the best discounts by category. These are the best Black Friday deals so far, by category: Black Friday TV deals Black Friday phone deals Black Friday laptop deals Black Friday gaming PC deals Black Friday smartwatch and fitness tracker deals Black Friday Amazon deals Black Friday Best Buy deals Black Friday Walmart deals Black Friday Sam's Club deals Black Friday Apple deals Black Friday iPad deals Black Friday AirPods deals Black Friday Apple Watch deals Black Friday Kindle deals Black Friday streaming deals Black Friday soundbar and speaker deals Black Friday robot vacuum deals Black Friday Nintendo Switch deals Black Friday PlayStation deals And more Black Friday deals: Black Friday deals under $25 Black Friday deals under $100 Black Friday Samsung deals Black Friday Verizon deals Black Friday headphone deals Black Friday tablet deals Black Friday monitor deals Black Friday gaming deals Black Friday security camera deals Black Friday storage and SSD deals Black Friday portable power station deals Black Friday VPN deals Black Friday Chromebook deals Black Friday HP deals Black Friday Dell deals Black Friday Roku deals Black Friday Roborock deals Best Black Friday deals Black Friday phone deals Black Friday TV deals Black Friday laptop deals
WASHINGTON — Special counsel Jack Smith moved to abandon two criminal cases against Donald Trump on Monday, acknowledging that Trump’s return to the White House will preclude attempts to federally prosecute him for retaining classified documents or trying to overturn his 2020 election defeat. The decision was inevitable, since longstanding Justice Department policy says sitting presidents cannot face criminal prosecution. Yet it was still a momentous finale to an unprecedented chapter in political and law enforcement history, as federal officials attempted to hold a former president accountable while he ran for another term. In court filings, Smith’s team emphasized that the move to abandon their prosecutions was not a reflection of the merit of the cases but a recognition of the legal shield that surrounds any commander in chief. “That prohibition is categorical and does not turn on the gravity of the crimes charged, the strength of the Government’s proof, or the merits of the prosecution, which the Government stands fully behind,” the prosecutors wrote in one of their filings. Smith’s team said it left intact charges against two co-defendants in the classified documents case — Trump valet Walt Nauta and Mar-a-Lago property manager Carlos De Oliveira — because “no principle of temporary immunity applies to them.” Trump has long described the investigations as politically motivated, and he has vowed to fire Smith as soon as he takes office in January. Now he will re-enter the White House free from criminal scrutiny by the government that he will lead. The election case brought last year was once seen as one of the most serious legal threats facing Trump as he tried to reclaim the White House. He was indicted for plotting to overturn his defeat to Joe Biden in 2020, an effort that climaxed with his supporters’ violent attack on the U.S. Capitol on Jan. 6, 2021. The separate case involving classified documents was widely seen as legally clear cut, especially because the conduct in question occurred after Trump left the White House and lost the powers of the presidency. The indictment included dozens of felony counts accusing him of illegally hoarding classified records from his presidency at his Mar-a-Lago estate in Palm Beach, Florida, and obstructing federal efforts to get them back. He pleaded not guilty and denied wrongdoing. Get local news delivered to your inbox!JD Martin Expands Representation of Dialight into North and South Carolina
31 Wacky Products That'll Make Your Guests Say "Why Do You Own This And Where Can I Get It?"Businesses navigate choppy waters in 2024
US coach Emma Hayes admits to anthem uncertainty ahead of England stalemateKnow what happens this weekend? The two shortest, darkest days of the year. On the bright side — with Christmas days a way and a new year approaching in less than two weeks — retailers are rolling out some incredible markdowns. To wit: We found on brand-name tech, kitchenware, clothes and more to the tune of 70 percent off or more. JBL Tune Beam True Wireless In-Ear Earbuds Apple AirTag Loritta Wool Socks (5 Pack) Moshu Drawstring Hooded Sweatshirt Cate & Chloe Zelda 18k White Gold Plated Pendant Necklace J.A. Henckels 14-piece Self-Sharpening Knife Block Set Ecetana Fuzzy Memory Foam Slippers Connect 4 Classic Monopoly Deal Card Game Lego Icons Poinsettia Plant Building Set Lego Classic Large Creative Brick Box Cookeez Makery Freezy Cakez Mix Apple 10.9-inch iPad (10th Generation) HP Chromebook 14-inch Laptop Apple AirPods Pro 2 Nexpow 6" Mini Chainsaw Litheli Cordless Snow Shovel Solo Stove Ranger 2.0 Smokeless Fire Pit Ninja Sizzle 14" Electric Griddle The Pioneer Woman 6 Qt Digital Slow Cooker Dyson V7 Advanced Cordless Vacuum Cleaner Shark Navigator Lift-Away Vacuum Skechers Women's Summits Fantaslook Color Block Sweatshirt Fantaslook Plaid Flannel Shirt Nexpure Hair Dryer Brush Mizon Black Snail, All In One Cream Lumineux Enamel-Safe & Peroxide-Free Teeth Whitening Strips There is truly nothing like cooking with a set of supremely sharp knives, and this top-of-the-line makes the cut with a sharpener built into its block, all for just $140 — that's a savings of $517! Then you have a for just $50 (that's $49 off). There's also a slew of Apple products on sale, like reduced to less than $200, and a for a massive 88% off. Is it safe to call these steals a holiday miracle? We'd say so! These JBL earbuds don't just look like AirPod doppelgangers. They also have a lot of incredible performance features, like active noise canceling, smart ambient technology (so you can still be aware of the world around you) and rich, immersive audio. In white or black, it's on sale for a mere $39. Keep tabs on luggage, car keys and even your beloved pets with the now-iconic Apple AirTag. It syncs up the 'Find My' app to help them easily locate their prized possessions in real time, so it's the gift that keeps on giving. Got a cat-loving lady on your list? We found the purr-fect stocking stuffer: this set of five pairs of wool blend socks, each with a set of ears and whiskers peeking up above their boots. The cozy socks are warm yet sweat-wicking for ultimate comfort. Need an extra layer to keep you toasty as we head into the heart of winter? This half-button hoodie is made of warm, breathable fabric that's soft against your skin. It's the perfect basic and comes in nine colors, but the best part is that it's $18, down from $80! If ever there was a time to stock up, it's right now. What's a New Year's Eve outfit with a little razzle dazzle? This gold-plated pendant (it comes in white, yellow or rose gold) holds an oval-cut simulated diamond crystal surrounded by sparkly chips on an 18-inch hypoallergenic chain. The made-in-the-USA bauble typically runs you $150. Today, this superstar is yours for ... $16! Win the last-minute Christmas gift game with this set of genuine Henckels knives for a sliver of the retail price. The top-of-the-line German-made set includes every kind of blade a well-appointed kitchen needs, from steak knives to kitchen shears, all in a self-sharpening block that elevates your countertop appeal. The set comes in 14, 18 or 20 pieces, starting at $140. Is it even Christmas if there's not a pair of cozy slippers waiting for someone under the tree? This faux fur-lined pair with memory foam soles and anti-slip soles is the cure to a cold and snowy night. Simple? Yes. Addictive? Absolutely. Challenge your family to a battle of strategy on Christmas morning, and see who among you will achieve four-in-a-row victory and all-day bragging rights. A Monopoly lightning round? This quick-play card version of the classic family game has all the “gotcha!” moments you love, minus the marathon board game commitment. It's perfect for road trips, too. Collect sets, dodge debt, and claim victory in just 15 minutes. Who needs a green thumb when you’ve got a red hot Lego set on your hands? This festive poinsettia blooms forever, no watering required. While away hour after hour with this riveting build. With over 790 colorful bricks, this set is the ultimate imagination station. Build cars, critters, castles, or whatever wild ideas pop into your head. It all packs into a sturdy box for easy cleanup, too. This playset lets kids “bake” squishy, scented plush treats that come to life fresh from the oven. A sprinkle of fun, a dash of creativity, and — the sweetest (and coolest) plushie pals ever! Make this iPad someone's go-to gadget for work, play and everything in between. With a stunning 10.9-inch display, 64GB of storage, and lightning-fast performance, this gadget multitasks like a pro: streaming, sketching, FaceTiming and beyond. With an Intel N200 processor, 4GB RAM, and 128GB of storage, this sleek silver Chromebook handles all your everyday tasks like a breeze. Light, fast, and ready for action, it's great for remote workers or anyone who travels a lot for their job. Noise-canceling magic meets crystal clear sound with these AirPods Pro that deliver immersive audio, adaptive transparency and all-day comfort. With the USB-C MagSafe case, charging’s a breeze, too. AirPods Pro 2 have extra special features as of fall 2024, too: a built-in hearing test, clinical-grade hearing aid features and hearing protection/ Enjoy impressive cutting power in a compact, cordless package that's lightweight and easy to maneuver. With a 6-inch blade, a safety lock, and two rechargeable batteries, it’s perfect for garden work or tackling DIY projects. Dreaming of a white Christmas? Here's how to clean it up: the Litheli Cordless Snow Shovel is a lightweight and efficient tool that's perfect for small snow jobs. Powered by a 20V battery, it tackles snow but doesn't bog you down with cords. Transform an outdoor space into the ultimate cozy hangout year-round with this compact, smokeless fire pit delivers roaring flames without the eye-watering smoke. It includes a stand, so you can safely set it up anywhere, from your backyard to a campsite. This Ninja griddle takes your indoor cooking to the next level with rapid heating, precise temperature control and a nonstick surface. Christmas morning pancakes will be fluffy perfection — and cleanup’s always easy, too! For the gift recipient whose love for the Pioneer Woman knows no bounds, this quaint, floral number is the gift that keeps on giving. With its digital controls and locking lid, it serves up style and convenience night after night ... effortlessly. Vacuuming shouldn’t feel like a workout, and with this iconic stick vac, it's actually a breeze. Dyson's powerful suction is what makes this lightweight, cord-free machine a force to be reckoned with. Tackle carpets, hard floors and tricky corners like it's nothing with this half-price score. And when you're done, an easy-to-empty bin keeps things mess-free. Meet your new cleaning powerhouse for carpets, hard floors, and everything in between. Its Lift-Away feature transforms it into a portable vacuum for stairs and tight spots, while the XL dust cup means fewer trips to empty. Messes don’t stand a chance against this under-$100 powerhouse. Time for a new pair of Skechers? These blend style, comfort, and ease. With a breathable mesh design, slip-on convenience, and cushioned memory foam insoles, they'll keep you comfy all day long. They're perfect for long walks, errands or anything that requires you to stay on your toes — and wide widths are available for that just-right fit. Be cozy and chic in an oversized color block top, whether you're lounging by an open fire or running end-of-year errands. Your new winter wardrobe staple with its oversized fit and classic button-down style. Soft, cozy, and effortlessly cool, it pairs perfectly with jeans or leggings for that laid-back vibe. It comes in a slew of colors, each for just $13. Give yourself salon-worthy blowouts at home without doing any damage to your gorgeous tresses. 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