MELBOURNE, Australia (AP) — The Australian Senate was debating a ban on children younger than 16 years old from social media Thursday after the House of Representatives overwhelmingly supported the age restriction. The bill that would make platforms including TikTok, Facebook, Snapchat, Reddit, X and Instagram liable for fines of up to 50 million Australian dollars ($33 million) for systemic failures to prevent young children from holding accounts. It is likely to be passed by the Senate on Thursday, the Parliament’s final session for the year and potentially the last before elections, which are due within months. The major parties’ support for the ban all but guarantees the legislation will become law. But many child welfare and mental health advocates are concerned about unintended consequences. Unaligned Sen. Jacqui Lambie complained about the limited amount of time the government gave the Senate to debate the age restriction, which she described as “undercooked.” “I thought this was a good idea. A lot of people out there thought it was a good idea until we looked at the detail and, let’s be honest, there’s no detail,” Lambie told the Senate. RELATED COVERAGE A Catholic family’s answer to opposing abortion: adopt, foster and vote Australian father of teen sextortion victim backs banning young children from social media Schools are bracing for upheaval over fear of mass deportations Opposition Sen. Maria Kovacic said the bill was not radical but necessary. “The core focus of this legislation is simple: It demands that social media companies take reasonable steps to identify and remove underage users from their platforms,” Kovacic told the Senate. “This is a responsibility these companies should have been fulfilling long ago, but for too long they have shirked these responsibilities in favor of profit,” she added. Sen. David Shoebridge, from the minor Greens party, said mental health experts agreed that the ban could dangerously isolate many children who used social media to find support. “This policy will hurt vulnerable young people the most, especially in regional communities and especially the LGBTQI community, by cutting them off,” Shoebridge told the Senate. The House of Representatives on Wednesday overwhelmingly carried the bill 102 votes to 13. Communications Minister Michelle Rowland urged senators to pass the bill which she said reflected the Australian community’s view. “The ... government is on the side of supporting parents and protecting young people,” Rowland told the House. Once the legislation becomes law, the platforms would have one year to work out how they could implement the ban before penalties are enforced. The platforms complained that the law would be unworkable, and urged the Senate to delay the vote until at least June next year when a government-commissioned evaluation of age assurance technologies made its report on how young children could be excluded. Critics argue the government is attempting to convince parents it is protecting their children ahead of general elections due by May. The government hopes that voters will reward it for responding to parents’ concerns about their children’s addiction to social media. Some argue the legislation could cause more harm than it prevents. Criticisms include that the legislation was rushed through Parliament without adequate scrutiny, is ineffective, poses privacy risks for all users, and undermines parental authority to make decisions for their children. Opponents of the bill also argue the ban would isolate children, deprive them of the positive aspects of social media, drive them to the dark web, discourage children too young for social media to report harm and reduce incentives for platforms to improve online safety.\��&�˖���q�>�+E�7*6��{t�xA�4�0�݇�`7�ƴ\I~Lr�]Ț%z�8J�� JV?,�cp�~����KO�)��'�����D���L{:�M�����C�s����h���.�Q�B�8����[ �|�G�f�Jr)L��>^��>�ٚ"���Q�d�lv��k��dH�,������z��Mg���mc.UJ#�JT�(uxNU�\u c��jC�}u�|G��"8z�vm�F��m��.}� �,N��:Yɻ��K �����`�Wʌ=�ZA�Z�K��r#7�绺�>��Y���GC�]��dT����W��uEH[]-���bc �w�aq�5dL��l�=��ǫl�%��B/%G�f�zZ���}�[c��}��p��X�H��p�D��&���ypWTX��_�2�T�D -��|��H?�&�P*���Or�J�j�X����ɕ��u#���[�xW��:�t��d�o�!�7�Ad]�R�[��Ch�T`��� ��`��d。

Key Republican Joni Ernst Gives Boost to Embattled Pete Hegseth NominationBEIJING , Nov. 21, 2024 /PRNewswire/ -- Baijiayun Group Ltd ("Baijiayun" or the "Company") (NASDAQ: RTC), a one-stop AI video solution provider, recently announced it has completed autumn upgrade. Driven by both technological development and market demands, the audio and video technology service market has entered a period of intensive cultivation and development. Baijiayun recently announced that it has carried out an important upgrade to its live and on-demand products, aiming to enhance the quality of live and on-demand products and provide customers with more targeted services. In terms of live broadcast products and services, Baijiayun has added multiple new functions. The newly added "My Invitation" and "Invitation Leaderboard" functions enable users watching the live broadcast to share the live broadcast link with one click and easily invite others to watch the live broadcast. The list of successfully invited users will be clearly displayed in the "My Invitation" area in the live broadcast room, enabling users to view their invitation results and sense of accomplishment of sharing. The newly added "Chat Messages on the Wall" function in the live broadcast room brings a brand-new experience to classroom interaction. Teachers or teaching assistants in the group classroom live broadcast room can easily set the wonderful remarks of students as "on the wall" for display, and the on-wall operation can be completed by double-clicking the message. This function not only enables teachers to highlight students' excellent viewpoints in real time but also makes the students whose remarks are set on the wall feel valued and encouraged, and at the same time greatly enhances the interactivity and participation of the classroom. Through this function, students can participate more actively in classroom discussions and jointly create an active and efficient learning atmosphere. In addition to the comprehensive optimization of live broadcast functions, Baijiayun has also carried out innovative upgrades in the on-demand video function. Among them, the addition of the on-demand intelligent translation function provides users with a more convenient and efficient learning experience. Baijiayun's live and on-demand products have added an "Intelligent Translation" service. It not only automatically generates bilingual subtitles but also allows intelligent translation, secondary editing, and deletion of subtitle content for the automatically generated subtitles and custom uploaded subtitle files. On the viewing end, students can choose to display bilingual or single-language subtitles according to their own needs. The intelligent translation function also provides educational institutions and teachers with a broader market and development space. Through translated subtitles, they can promote their course content to the global market and attract more students and fans. This not only helps to enhance their popularity and influence but also brings more business opportunities and benefits. About Baijiayun Group Ltd Baijiayun is a one-stop AI video solution provider with core expertise in SaaS/PaaS solutions. Baijiayun is committed to delivering reliable, high-quality video experiences across devices and localities and has grown rapidly since its inception in 2017. Premised on its industry-leading video-centric technologies, Baijiayun offers a wealth of video-centric technology solutions, including Video SaaS/PaaS, Video Cloud and Software, and Video AI and System Solutions. Baijiayun caters to the evolving communications and collaboration needs of enterprises of all sizes and industries. For more information, please visit ir.baijiayun.com . Safe Harbor Statement This press release contains certain "forward-looking statements." These statements are made under the "safe harbor" provisions of the U.S. Private Securities Litigation Reform Act of 1995. Statements that are not historical facts, including statements about the parties' perspectives and expectations, are forward-looking statements. The words "will," "expect," "believe," "estimate," "intend," and "plan" and similar expressions indicate forward-looking statements. Such forward-looking statements are inherently uncertain, and shareholders and other potential investors must recognize that actual results may differ materially from the expectations as a result of a variety of factors. Such forward-looking statements are based upon management's current expectations and include known and unknown risks, uncertainties, and other factors, many of which are hard to predict or control, that may cause the actual results, performance, or plans to differ materially from any future results, performance or plans expressed or implied by such forward-looking statements. The forward-looking information provided herein represents the Company's estimates as of the date of this press release, and subsequent events and developments may cause the Company's estimates to change. The Company specifically disclaims any obligation to update the forward-looking information in the future. Therefore, this forward-looking information should not be relied upon as representing the Company's estimates of its future financial performance as of any date subsequent to the date of this press release. A further list and description of risks and uncertainties can be found in the documents the Company has filed or furnished or may file or furnish with the U.S. Securities and Exchange Commission, which you are encouraged to read. Should one or more of these risks or uncertainties materialize, or should underlying assumptions prove incorrect, actual results may vary materially from those indicated or anticipated by such forward-looking statements. Accordingly, you are cautioned not to place undue reliance on these forward-looking statements. Forward-looking statements relate only to the date they were made, and the Company undertakes no obligation to update forward-looking statements to reflect events or circumstances after the date they were made except as required by law or applicable regulation. For investor and media enquiries, please contact: Company Contact: Ms. Fangfei Liu Chief Financial Officer, Baijiayun Group Ltd Phone: +86 25 8222 1596 Email: ir@baijiayun.com View original content: https://www.prnewswire.com/news-releases/continuously-optimize-user-experience-baijiayuns-live-and-on-demand-products-complete-autumn-upgrade-302313368.html SOURCE Baijiayun Group Ltd

Cardinals are average through 12 games and the frustration is it feels as if they could be better

PITTSBURGH (AP) — Preseason’s over. Now the real work begins for the Pittsburgh Steelers. While the past three months have been promising and productive for the first-place Steelers (10-3), it has come largely at the expense of teams who will likely watch the playoffs on TV. Six of Pittsburgh’s victories have come against teams who currently have losing records. The other four wins — Denver , the Chargers , Washington and Baltimore — are solid resume-builders with a small caveat: none of them lead their respective divisions. To be clear, Pittsburgh’s play is part of the reason those four clubs find themselves looking up to others in the standings. That will change on Sunday when the Steelers travel across the state to face NFC juggernaut Philadelphia , the start of an 11-day sprint in which Pittsburgh also faces a rematch with the Ravens and spends Christmas Day at Acrisure Stadium against Patrick Mahomes and the two-time defending Super Bowl champion Chiefs . “It’s just going to show us how good we can be,” safety DeShon Elliott said. It’s a testament to the weekly tunnel vision Pittsburgh coach Mike Tomlin creates that wide receiver Calvin Austin III needed to be reminded about the daunting stretch that awaits after Sunday’s relatively drama-free 27-14 win over Cleveland. RELATED COVERAGE Tua Tagovailoa’s strong play has helped keep the Dolphins’ playoff hopes alive Panthers lose rookie RB Jonathon Brooks for the season to a torn ACL; same knee he injured at Texas Atop the NFC West with a 4-game winning streak, the Seahawks are in playoff mode “Who do we play again?” Austin said. When reminded it was three teams that fully expect to be in New Orleans on the second Sunday in February, Austin laughed. “That’s a tough little stretch, but at the end of the day it’s a five-star matchup as Coach T says because we’re in it,” he said. “We know that when we’re out there, it’s going to always be a big-time performance.” The AP Top 25 college football poll is back every week throughout the season! Get the poll delivered straight to your inbox with AP Top 25 Poll Alerts. Sign up here . One Austin and his teammates believe they’re ready for after a workmanlike victory over the Browns in which the Steelers were only too intent to let Cleveland self-destruct behind a flurry of penalties, missed field goals and turnovers. More will likely be required in the coming weeks, which is fine by the Steelers. They have put themselves in a position to do things the franchise hasn’t done in a while. And for all the good things they’ve done since early September, they’re only too aware their season will be defined by what comes next. Sure, they’d love a little more time between games to rest up. The scheduling gods didn’t give them that option. So be it. “I feel like the league kind of hates us already, man,” Elliott said. “It’s all right. We’re going to go out here, play those games, work our butts off, go out and be 3-0.” What’s working Letting everybody eat. Russell Wilson seems to be almost pathological in his determination to get every eligible skill position player involved. A week ago against the Bengals , he connected with 10 different players. In the rematch with the Browns, it was eight, including Mike Williams and Scotty Miller, veterans who have largely been afterthoughts of late. Tomlin greeted Miller after an acrobatic 20-yard third down grab on the sideline in the third quarter with “this isn’t a lightning strike,” a popular Tomlin-ism that means simply Miller did all the work necessary to succeed, so it shouldn’t be a surprise when it comes. Asked if he felt compelled to mention this to Tomlin the next time Miller is a candidate to be inactive on game days — as he has often been in recent weeks — Miller smiled. “If you could tell him that, that’d be great,” he said with a laugh. What needs help George Pickens’ maturity. While Pickens believes opponents haven’t found a way to get under his skin, the evidence suggests otherwise. How else to explain why nearly three years into his career, Pickens still frequently finds an envelope in his locker from the league telling him he’s been fined for everything from unsportsmanlike conduct to unnecessary roughness? Pickens’ teammates respect his talent and understand his importance — look at how disjointed the offense looked on Sunday for proof — but will he “cut out the stupid stuff” before the playoffs arrive? That will be entirely up to Pickens. Nothing seems to have gotten through so far. Maybe watching the team win without him while nursing a hamstring injury — as Pickens did on Sunday — will do the trick. Stock up The Steelers may have found their heir apparent to the seemingly ageless Cam Heyward in second-year defensive tackle Keeanu Benton. While Benton will likely never come close to matching Heyward’s impact as a pass rusher, he can do just about everything else and his first career interception on Sunday — a leaping pick of an ill-advised screen pass by Jameis Winston — showcased his spiking football IQ. Stock down Everyone who put money down during the offseason on the Steelers missing the playoffs . It looked like a good investment over the summer with two new quarterbacks, a new offensive coordinator, no second big-play wide receiver to complement Pickens and playing in what was viewed as the best division in the league. Not so much anymore. Pittsburgh has a 99% chance of reaching the postseason for the fourth time in five years. Injuries Defensive tackle Larry Ogunjobi — selected as the team’s Walter Payton Man of the Year nominee last week — left in the second quarter with a groin injury. Defensive tackle Montravius Adams (knee) is trending toward playing for the first time since October and could be available in Philadelphia. Key number Plus-28 — the Steelers’ turnover margin since the start of the 2023 season, tops in the NFL. Next steps Try to do something they haven’t done in nearly 60 years: beat the Eagles on the road. Pittsburgh’s most recent victory in Philadelphia was on Oct. 24, 1965. ___ AP NFL: https://apnews.com/hub/nflCostco will stop selling these popular items

PRAGATI sped up 340 infra projects: OxfordCardinals are average through 12 games and the frustration is it feels as if they could be better15 hurt in Florida when train hits fire truck that drove onto tracks after another train passed

Competitively priced 2025 Chevrolet Blazer EV has plenty to recommend itVaping has revolutionized the cannabis market, and it’s easy to see why! Not only is it convenient and more discreet than smoking, but it also offers an easy, to enjoy cannabis. Whether you want to enjoy the mild effects of Delta-8 THC or the more intense effects of Delta-9 THC, there is a perfect vape pen out there to suit any of your needs. With so many THC vape pens on the market, it’s beyond easy to find a weed vape pen that will deliver the pleasant psychoactive effect you seek. If you’re looking for fast-acting effects and portability, then a vape pen will be perfect for you. After thorough research, the rank at the top of our list for their potency and unique flavor, followed closely by four other top-notch weed pens. 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This unique formula is enhanced with Delta-8 THC, THC-P, and Delta-9. This disposable weed vape pen is free from additives, offering users around 800 puffs. Sunset Sherbet provides a effect, while the White Widow Hybrid THC-A Live Resin Liquid Budder Vape Pen offers a balanced mix of indica and sativa effects. Their Sunset Sherbet Indica THC-A Live Resin Liquid Budder Vape Pen tastes like sweet berry with notes of citrus, giving users enjoyable candy vibes. For those who want something more earthy and herbal, we suggest trying their White Widow Hybrid THC-A Live Resin Liquid Budder Vape Pen. TRĒHouse’s impressive selection of disposable vape pens includes many other flavors, like Pineapple Express for those wanting a tropical flavor or Candyland for those wanting something sweet and earthy. If you choose to buy the best disposable vape pen on the market, you’ll get a pen that is completely rechargeable and with each recharge. We promise you’ll get plenty of enjoyable vaping sessions before you have to worry about recharging this trusty weed pen. TRĒHouse Delta-8 THC Vape Pens are made out of high-quality glass cartridges that can survive accidental drops from even the clumsiest of users. These cartridges also promise longevity, which is essential to consider when you use disposable weed vape pens. Though TRĒHouse charges the industry average for its best-selling vape pens, TRĒHouse subscribers can enjoy a . What makes TRĒHouse one of the top brands on the market is its product variety. They offer oil vape pens, dab pens, THC vapes in many different forms, and a wide range of disposables. All new shoppers qualify for a 20% discount on their first order — if they subscribe to TRĒHouse. Not only can you enjoy this generous discount, but TRĒHouse offers a 60-day money-back guarantee. ● Three flavors to choose from, including Blueberry Dream● Currently available at an impressive 35% discount● Two pods in each package● Made with the company’s exclusive blend The next vape pen on our list is the Delta Extrax Essentials by Goliath | Delta-9 + THCP Preheat Device + Pod. These weed pens are carefully manufactured, targeting more seasoned vaping fans and enthusiasts. Delta Extrax’s is highly potent. It combines high doses of Delta-9 THC-P, THC-A, Delt-8 THC, Live Resin, and naturally occurring terpenes from cannabis and organic hemp plants, resulting in a great taste that users will love. Their Blueberry Dream Indica will provide users with a experience, perfect if you’re looking to unwind. Prefer sativa? Their Maui Wowie offers a experience instead. The third flavor, , is a beautiful mix of sativa and indica, offering users a dreamy, easy-going session. These Delta Extrax disposables offer extensive vaping sessions per charge. The Goliath battery capacity is 280mah, meaning it requires , even for users who vape frequently. Though there isn’t much customization to be done, Delta Extrax Essentials by Goliath | Delta-9 + THCP Preheat Device + Pod promises hassle-free vaping sessions due to its robust cartridge, which is sturdy and reliable. Another quality that makes this weed vape pen one of the best on the market is its highly affordable price. Compared to other vape pens on the market, Delta Extrax Essentials by Goliath | Delta-9 + THCP Preheat Device + Pod is usually offered at a discount, making its already affordable price tag even more appealing. Along with selling indica, sativa, and hybrid THC vapes, Delta Extrax sells gummylicious THC gummies, top-of-the-line cartridges, and Delta-8 and Delta-9 THC flower. This wide product range allows Delta Extrax to cover all your needs in one place. If you shop with Delta Extrax, new shoppers get a 20% discount on their first order, and all orders over $75 automatically qualify for free shipping. They also accept returns for mis-shipped or damaged products. ● Over 500 verified customer reviews● A wide range of flavors to choose from● Made with top-grade THCp mixed with Delta 8 THC The third vape pen on our list is the Binoid THCp Vape. One of its best-selling devices is the THC-P Rechargeable Disposable – 2 Gram, and it’s currently available at a discounted price. This THC vape is made with top-grade THC-P distillate mixed with Delta-8 THC and has moderate to high potency, perfect for and those with a higher THC tolerance. THC-P is much more potent than Delta-9 THC, meaning its effects are more intense and longer-lasting compared to other standard vapes. Additionally, its potency provides vapers with euphoric highs, improved moods, and an energy boost. These vapes are available in : Fruit Loops, Aurora Indica, God’s Gift, Trainwreck, Amnesia Haze, and Thai Chi. Aurora Indica, a flavor dominated by woody, herbal, and spicy notes, is one of our favorites! Fruit Loops has a sugary and sweet berry flavor, with scents of tropical fruit and berries. God’s Gift has an interesting aroma, with scents of hash, citrus, and grape, a beautiful combination of its parents, OG Kush, and Granddaddy Purple. Amnesia Haze is sweet and citrusy with a tinge of earthiness and spice, similar to Pineapple Express. Trainwreck has a beautiful piney, spicy, and citrusy aroma. The final flavor, Thai Chi, is great if you enjoy a lemony and grapey profile, similar to Purple Punch and Rainbow Sherbet. The best-selling vape, the TCH-P Rechargeable Disposable – 2 Gram, comes with a rechargeable battery that will last . Also, according to the over 500 customer reviews on their website, it doesn’t take very long to recharge! The cartridge for this weed pen is made with high-quality glass to make sure you can enjoy these unique flavor profiles without having to worry about your vape pen breaking down from everyday use. Another thing we like about the Binoid THCp Vapes is that the THC disposables are often during sales events. Not only are the disposables available at discounted prices, but so are the dab pens and several other vape pen products. When shopping for THC vape pens on the Binoid website, you have a wide variety of products to choose from, several of which offer high-tech temperature control features, along with other customizable options. It’s also important to note that Binoid promises fast and discreet delivery across the whole of the U.S. If you live on the East Coast, you’ll usually get your order in a day or two, while those living on the West Coast will usually get their products in three to five days. ● Vapes have a nice, sleek design● Four vape pens in a bundle● 50% discount● Made with 900mg of HHC in a wide range of popular strains Diamond CBD HHC Disposable Vapes are made for more experienced users with almost . Each vape is made with natural terpenes and hemp-derived HHC extract, reducing the risk of harmful side effects. The hybrid THC bundle contains four vape pens. Their user-friendly design guarantees a hassle-free and convenient vape session every time! With this top HHC weed pen, users will get to have a euphoric experience that impacts both body and mind. Along with the euphoric vibes, this hybrid THC vape also ensures energizing and uplifting vibes. Some users also note experiencing a . Overall, the mental and physical effects are extremely pleasant. As for the flavors, these disposable HHC vape pens come in four flavors: . Pineapple Express is our favorite, known for its notes of citrus and lemon combined with a unique bit of earthiness. Sour Diesel is another excellent option, with gassy, earthy, and piney notes. If you enjoy fruity aromas, we suggest choosing Zkittlez. It’s a tasty combination of candy, berries, and tropical flavors. Skywalker OG is a special blend that combines sweet and citrusy scents with a peppery undertone. As with the other THC devices on our list, the Diamond CBD HHC Disposable Vapes have a long-lasting battery, allowing you to enjoy uninterrupted vape sessions. Luckily, if you have any issues with these vapes, the company offers a The bundle includes four durable, disposable weed vape pens that offer intense euphoric highs and uplifting vibes. These pens are designed to withstand everyday use, and accidental drops won’t do any damage! While the are usually priced around the industry average, they are currently on sale, and vapers can buy them at a significant discount of 20 – 50% off. Compared to the other companies on this list, Diamond CBD offers one of the largest selections of vaping products. Along with selling HHC weed pen devices, the company also provides vapes with other compounds from organically-grown hemp, including Delta-9 THC, THC-P, THC-A, and more. Many of Diamond CBD’s best-selling hybrid THC vapes have been featured in Forbes, Herb, Leafy, and other major publications. If you’re interested in checking out these high-class vape products, the company often offers them at generous discounted prices of 40% and 50%. ● 25% discount on your first order for subscribers● Over 120 customer reviews● Offers a more creative experience● Enriched with full-spectrum terpenes and Live Resin Last but not least are the Secret Nature THC-V Disposable Vapes. As suggested, this pen is designed for those looking forward to a more natural and pleasant experience with THC-V. In its raw form, THC-V is known for , along with suppressing one’s appetite. Along with a boost in creativity, THC-V users may experience a . In regards to potency, the Secret Nature THC-V Disposable Vape Pen is less potent compared to other vapes on the market. It’s made with 100% organic and all-natural ingredients, namely full-spectrum Live Resin and terpenes, which a third-party lab tests. The flavors for this pen are a little more limited. You can purchase them in one of two flavors: . Like Maui Wowie, Payana offers a combination of sweet and sour with a highly pleasant aromatic experience, enhanced by Live Resin terpenes. Sour Diesel offers a skunky aroma. Both flavors provide a clean and smooth puff that delights all your senses. This pen also has a decent battery life, allowing for a long-lasting vape session, even for frequent users. According to customers, the hits may start getting weaker when you’re about halfway through the cartridge, but they take to fully recharge. The product is designed for portability and durability, so you can take it everywhere with you. The cartridge is made with strong glass, which increases its durability and allows vapers to enjoy a more flavorful and smoother experience. In regards to pricing, Secret Nature THCv weed vape pens are slightly above the average, but they’re well worth the price when you consider they’re made with organic ingredients and offer an exceptionally smooth vaping session. It’s a highly reputable brand in the cannabis industry, with publications like Leafy, RollingStone, and Business Insider featuring its products. All the products in their catalog are third-party lab-tested and are 100% organic. Along with selling vape products, they also sell THC and CBD flower, prerolls, THCa disposables, and other weed products for wellness. All new shoppers immediately qualify for a 20% discount on their first purchase. What Is a Weed Pen? Weed pens have drastically changed the way people can enjoy cannabis. These easily portable devices offer a convenient alternative to traditional consumption methods, such as smoking. Whether you use a dry herb, wax, THC oil, or CBD oil, weed pens heat these cannabis products, . Inhaling this vapor is considered less harmful than smoking cannabis since it avoids the normal byproducts of combustion. Weed pens come in many different styles but share : a mouthpiece, a heating component, and a battery (the primary power source). The battery powers the heating component, which turns the cannabis into a vapor, and the mouthpiece allows the user to inhale it. Some vape pens on the market are made with nicotine, and smokers often use them to help with quitting. There are also disposable pens that come prefilled with THC or CBD. Some products are made with higher THC content, catering to more experienced THC consumers, and are used for . There are also CBD weed pens that are used by medicinal cannabis consumers. Along with disposable pens, cannabis companies also offer refillable vaping devices. One of these refillable devices is the Pax Era, which comes with haptic feedback and a ton of other features that provide high-quality vapor and even more customizable vaping sessions. How Do Weed Pens Work? As mentioned earlier, vaping devices have three major components, including an atomizer, cartridge, and battery. The battery when the device is turned on, and the cartridge contains the concentrate or oil being used. Some vaping devices are activated when you , while others are activated when you press the power button. These devices rely on convection or conduction, both of which offer a smooth vaping experience for users. Some pens use conduction, which means the THC or CBD oil comes into contact with a heated element. This creates a smooth hit, but the can sometimes cause uneven heating, which may burn the oil being used. Others use . If the pen uses convection, that means the air inside the pen is heated, which then warms the cannabis oil being used and turns it into a vapor that can be inhaled. Though convection takes longer than conduction, it reduces the chance of burning the THC or CBD oil, and many vapers prefer it. How to Use a Vape Pen: Beginners Guide Even if you’re new to vaping and have never even held a vape before, . The first thing you should do is charge the pen’s battery. These devices usually use a standard USB cable. Once it’s charged, you can attach your prefilled cartridge or load the cannabis oil into the chamber. Some devices have a power button. If yours does, press it, then inhale through the mouthpiece. When you press the power button, the pen will heat the cannabis oil and turn it into a vapor for you to inhale. As you inhale, the vapor will travel through the chamber and the mouthpiece. Once inhaled, you will begin to feel . You can change the amount of vapor you inhale by adjusting how hard you inhale. Also, many weed pens offer temperature settings, allowing you to even more so you can enjoy high-quality sessions. To summarize, here is a rundown of how to use a vape pen: ● Charge the device’s battery before using it.● Fill the chamber with cannabis oil or attach the prefilled cartridge.● Inhale to activate the device, or press the power button.● Adjust power or temperature settings, if possible.● Inhale through the mouthpiece and take small, steady puffs.● Turn off your device when you’re done, and store it away from direct sunlight. Types of Weed Pens Below is an overview of the different types of weed pens, along with commonly used alternatives, including disposables, refillable devices, 510-thread devices, dry herb vaporizers, and pod systems. Disposables may be one of the most popular vaping devices, especially among those who are new to vaping. They’re portable and compact, often , and are ready to use as soon as you open the package! Disposable pens are single-use products, meaning they don’t need to be refilled or maintained. Also, they’re usually more affordable than other devices on the market. Once your disposable runs out of cannabis oil or the battery dies, you throw it away and buy a new one. As opposed to disposable pens, you can buy refillable vape pens. They’re also compact and portable, but unlike disposables, are . With these vaping devices, you can use dry herb or concentrate, and you usually have a wider selection of flavor profiles, like Maui Wowie, Godfather OG, and more. High-quality refillable vape pens usually come with and tend to be more cost-effective in the long run. However, since they’re designed to be used repeatedly, it’s important to clean and maintain these devices regularly to ensure the device lasts. The next product on our list is cartridge-based weed pens, which use cartridges already filled with . These concentrates include THC, CBD, and other cannabinoids. Once the cartridge is empty, it’s simple to attach a new cartridge and continue enjoying your vape sessions! Cartridge-based vape pens allow you to choose from a and are very popular with users who want flexibility. Pod system weed pens are very similar to cartridge-based pens. The main difference, though, is the way they function. Cartridge-based systems use cartridges with THC or CBD products, while pod-based systems use pods. If you’re using a high-quality pod system, you can enjoy a highly flavorful vapor. It also guarantees versatility and flexibility, often offering hundreds of different flavor options to choose from. Another product you can purchase is high-quality dab pens or concentrate pens that are made to vape . Dab pens have an atomizer that heats the concentrate to vaporize it, without the risk of burning it. Compared to other vape pens, concentrate pens are usually since concentrate usually has a higher percentage of THC and other cannabinoids. 510-thread weed pens are compatible with a , making them popular among all types of vapers. It’s also important to note that 510-thread pens are highly customizable and come with many , offering greater versatility while being easy to use and maintain. Dry herb vaporizers without burning them, offering a clean and smoke-free experience. When you place the dry herb or flower in the chamber, the vaporizer heats it and releases THC and CBD . This method reduces many of the harmful side effects associated with smoking, allowing for a smoother, cleaner, and delightful experience. All-in-one vape pens are compact devices that combine the three main components — battery, heating element, and cartridge — into one single product. Though this eliminates the enjoyment one might get out of customizing their devices, it dramatically simplifies the vaping experience. These pens offer highly potent effects, including the , and their make them a favorite among beginners. Components of a Weed Pen Vape pens are composed of four essential components: batteries, THC cartridges, an atomizer, and a mouthpiece. Each component plays a vital role in how the device functions and performs. The battery and is sometimes rechargeable. It supplies the energy to heat the concentrate or oil. Its size and power affect the pen’s performance, vapor production, and product life. The cartridge holds cannabis oil or concentrate and is usually . It also has a mouthpiece to inhale the vapor. Cartridges can hold different strains and flavors, like Wedding Cake, Skywalker OG, and Lemon Slushie, allowing for a wider range of flavors and effects. Atomizers stored inside the cartridge. The battery powers it and will have either a coil or ceramic rod that vaporizes the cannabis oil or concentrate inside. Its quality and design both affect the vapor’s flavor and can drastically change the overall experience. The mouthpiece is where you . They’re typically made of silicone, plastic, or glass and are optimized for comfortable use. The quality and design of the mouthpiece can drastically affect the experience you have during your vaping session. Apart from these four most common components, some vape pens also have a power button that allows you to turn the product on and control the temperature. More advanced vape pens can also be equipped with an airflow system, enabling you to change the scent and density of the vapor. How to Maintain and Clean Your Weed Pen To make sure your weed pen stays in top shape, you must clean it often. Proper maintenance will ensure there’s no buildup, which can have a negative effect on the pen’s performance. Following these guidelines can help you ensure your device is cleaned effectively: Use isopropyl alcohol to clean your vape pen. Isopropyl alcohol will dissolve any leftover residue and will help to thoroughly sanitize your device. Don’t use water since it can cause damage to any electrical components on your device. Ideally, you’ll use a cotton swab to clean any debris from the different parts of your vape pen. For a more thorough cleaning of components like the heating chamber, consider using a small brush or even a needle, which will help you get rid of any more difficult debris. Do not clean your vape pen using running water. It can to any electrical components and can mess with the way your vape pen works. Instead, use a cotton swab with isopropyl alcohol. Allow your vape pen to cool down completely before trying to clean it out. Cleaning a hot pen can be dangerous and . Clean your vape pen . You should completely disassemble the device, remove the chamber or cartridge, and carefully separate any other components. Store in a Dry, Clean Place Once you’re done cleaning your vape pen, make sure you store it in a . Never store your vape pen somewhere with high humidity or high temperatures, as that will negatively affect its performance. Things to Consider Before Buying a Weed Vape Pen When it comes to choosing your next vaping device, there are a couple of important factors to consider. When buying a vape pen, make sure you carefully look at its safety features. Keep an eye out for options like or other mechanisms to ensure safe and secure vape sessions. Another useful safety feature is an , which ensures your pen will power off when not in use. If you want to take your vape pen with you, it’s essential to consider whether the device is portable or not. pens are usually more portable. It’s also important to have safe and secure storage for your vape pen while you’re on the go. Next, make sure you choose a high-quality vape pen. Pens made from are highly recommended, but any other high-grade material will be sufficient. Along with making sure the vape pen is built with high-quality materials, you want to make sure you purchase a device with a . If you need to recharge the battery often, or it takes a long time to charge the battery, it can make your experience more inconvenient. A more reliable battery will make sure you can truly enjoy your vape sessions. If you’re interested in customizing your vape pen, consider looking for a device with . This will allow you to improve the quality and intensity of the vapor you inhale. Start with the lowest voltage, but feel free to adjust as needed until you create the best experience. In order to prevent the loss of any THC concentrate or oil, invest in a . A leak-proof design is also crucial if you’re going to be traveling often with your vape pen. We highly recommend that you look for a vape pen with a design that allows for . Stay away from vape pens that have complex parts that are hard to remove, which are more prone to residue buildup. Look for a pen that has easy-to-remove parts for quick and worry-free maintenance. If you purchase a vape pen with temperature controls, you can significantly customize your vape session. Many modern devices offer . The final feature you should consider when looking for your next device is . This feature makes your experience more convenient and enjoyable. FAQs Have more questions about THC vape pens? Take a moment to review the FAQs section below. The length of the high you experience depends on your personal tolerance of THC, the type of THC product, and the product’s potency. Usually, vapers experience highs for , but that length depends on a lot of factors. Yes, there is a wide range of disposable weed pens available, in a . Disposable weed pens come prefilled with THC concentrate or oil and are single-use. Once the concentrate or oil is gone, you should throw the disposable weed pen away. The best brand of weed cart is TRĒHouse. They offer a wide range of products, including , disposables, THC gummies, and much more. The best device for smoking weed is the . These pens have high-grade Delta-8 THC and promise with different flavors like Sunset Sherbet, White Widow, Blueberry Slushie, and more. The best vape device for beginners is the . These vapes have a and offer an enjoyable experience, boosting mental clarity and creativity. The best weed cart to smoke is the . It provides a nice dose of Delta-9 THC, along with other cannabinoids, and is an excellent choice for . The best disposable weed cart is the . These HHC disposables help and offer . Final Thoughts Vaping has become extremely popular since it offers a experience. There are many good weed vape pens on the market, so it can be challenging to choose the right one. However, rank number one as they offer the best aromas, the best flavors, and the highest potency. Delta Extrax pens are a close second, offering a high-class experience for experienced vapers. If you’re interested in THC vape products, please don’t hesitate to check out the other products on our list. Who knows, you might just find your new favorite!

Defensive tackle Nick Booker-Brown, who received All-Conference USA honorable mention in 2022, is headed to the Spartans. Click to share on Facebook (Opens in new window) Click to share on X (Opens in new window) Most Popular Chinese student’s drone got stuck in tree near Newport News Shipbuilding, leading to Espionage Act prosecution Chinese student’s drone got stuck in tree near Newport News Shipbuilding, leading to Espionage Act prosecution Longtime Phoebus Auction Gallery to close after New Year’s Day event Longtime Phoebus Auction Gallery to close after New Year’s Day event Juvenile humpback whale washes ashore on Outer Banks Juvenile humpback whale washes ashore on Outer Banks James City County officer, 17-year-old injured in Christmas Eve crash James City County officer, 17-year-old injured in Christmas Eve crash Williamsburg leaders to prioritize funding for regional Trail757 project Williamsburg leaders to prioritize funding for regional Trail757 project Journey of self: Williamsburg-area massage therapist helps others heal Journey of self: Williamsburg-area massage therapist helps others heal Purdue defensive back transfers to ODU Purdue defensive back transfers to ODU Fun to Do: Ice skating, holiday concerts, lights and more Fun to Do: Ice skating, holiday concerts, lights and more Partnership with Riverside Health seeks to improve wellness at area homeless shelters Partnership with Riverside Health seeks to improve wellness at area homeless shelters Get healthier in the new year with these resources in the Williamsburg area Get healthier in the new year with these resources in the Williamsburg area Trending Nationally Body found in wheel well of plane from Chicago to Maui How Diddy and Luigi Mangione spent Christmas in Brooklyn jail Massive invasive python is freed into the Palm Beach County wilderness. Here’s why ‘Baby Driver’ actor Hudson Meek dead at 16 Pregnant woman stabbed multiple times by pizza deliverer disgruntled about tip, sheriff saysNoneMatt Gaetz Mocked With Scaramucci Comparisons After AG Withdrawal

PRAGATI sped up 340 infra projects: OxfordWhere to watch USWNT vs. Netherlands in last game of 2024None

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Some concerned for no-fault divorce

I'm A Celebrity star Alan Halsall opened up about his daughter's desire to become an actor just like her parents. Alan was married to Lucy-Jo Judson from 2009 to 2018. During their marriage, they welcome a child called Sienna-Rae in 2013. Lucy-Jo is also an actress and is known for her role as Katy Harris in Coronation Street and Rosie in Wild at Heart. Meanwhile, Alan has been Tyrone Dobbs in Corrie since 1998. During the recent episode of I'm A Celeb, Alan talked to his campmates about his daughter wanting to follow in his and Lucy-Jo's footsteps. He said: "It's hard for your kids to grow up and see a successful father and not want to go for that... My little girl's got myself and her mum so she wants to be an actor. He then referred to WAG Coleen Rooney as an example. Alan said: "She's got four lads who play football. Sienna says to me, 'You're job is so easy. If you get it wrong, you just do it again.'" It comes after Lucy-Jo took to Instagram to tell fans that there is no bad blood between her and Alan. He recently touched upon his marriage to Lucy-Jo while opening up to his campmates. Soon after the bonding moment, Lucy-Jo shared a long post on social media to tell her own side of the story. "Just wanted to put the record straight. First of all, me and my ex have been divorced for seven years. I actually can't believe it's a topic of conversation because it's pretty boring,” she wrote. Lucy-Jo also addressed her co-parenting situation with Alan. She continued: "We share Sienna 50/50. We communicate. She's a happy kid,” she said, adding, “We get on great. We have to work out weekends what we're swapping, certain days he wants, certain days I want. We're constantly communicating because it's important for Sienna and to plan what we're doing. "We don't want her missing out so we change things for each other." Ending her statement, Lucy-Jo spoke about her new partner, Lewis Devine, with whom she shares a son, Carter , born in 2020. The actress concluded on a happy note, saying that the blended family were all behind Alan on I’m a Celeb. "Second of all, myself and Lewis will be sat down with Sienna watching the jungle. We wish him nothing but the best,” she said. Follow Mirror Celebs on TikTok , Snapchat , Instagram , Twitter , Facebook , YouTube and Threads .I literally just added these to my cart because I keep losing AirPods, and they're on sale for a really cheap price (just $25!) at Amazon's Cyber Monday sale. The JBL Tune 510BT have over 50,000 positive reviews on Amazon and are one of the best-selling headphones on the site. The over-ear headphones come with JBL's renowned Pure Bass sound to deliver powerful audio and feature Wireless Bluetooth 5.0 Streaming, so you can stream music and podcasts and take calls from your device. JBL Tune 510BT headphones: was $49.95 now $24.95 at Amazon This little appliance has been on my wish list to help me keep my New Year's resolution of keeping my car clean. It has over 100,000 positive reviews on Amazon, and thanks to today's Cyber Monday sale, it's on sale for just $39.99—the lowest price we've seen all year and just $2 shy of the record low. The handheld vacuum is lightweight, portable, easy to recharge, and has a crevice tool to clean hard-to-reach areas. It's an Amazon best-seller rarely on sale, so you should snap up today's discount. Black+Decker Dustbuster Handheld Vacuum: was $59.99 now $39.99 There were a lot of disappointed faces in the TechRadar office when we saw the Kindle deals over Amazon Prime Day and the Prime Big Deal Days sale. A lot of us – and I'm sure many of you too – pinned a lot of hopes on big discounts during those Amazon-exclusive sales. And there wasn't much to be excited about at all. At least there's been some improvement in the Cyber Monday sales, with both the latest Kindle and Kindle Paperwhite getting their first-ever price cuts. Sure, both ereaders are nowhere near as cheap as I've seen previous versions in the past, but these are still decent offers for the new and improved models with bigger screens and longer battery life. I'm confident in saying these will likely be the best offers we see until at least July next year, so don't miss your chance to get a discount before the Amazon Cyber Monday sale ends later tonight. Kindle: was $109.99 now $84.99 at Amazon Kindle Paperwhite: was $159.99 now $129.99 at Amazon There's one Cyber Monday deal ending tonight that you need to see above the rest. It's this offer on Hulu that's already proved tremendously popular over the last few days. And, honestly, I can see why. You can pay just $0.99 per month for a Hulu subscription with ads, which saves you almost $100 over a year's membership. There's also an option to bundle it with Disney Plus for a measly $2.99 a month – another huge bargain for both streaming services. This one ends today, though, so it's definitely one I'd pull the trigger on as soon as possible. ENDS TONIGHT – Get Hulu for $0.99 per month This would make a GREAT stocking stuffer idea – the wildly popular Apple AirTag 4-pack is on sale for its lowest price yet. The Apple AirTag is a handy Bluetooth location-tracking device that pairs with your iPhone. If you're like me and tend to misplace your keys or wallet, just attach the AirTag to anything you don't want to lose, and your iPhone will locate the item with Precision Finding technology. Apple AirTag (4-pack): was $99 now $69.99 at Amazon I already own the third-generation Echo Dot and can't imagine life without it. The smart speaker plays music, answers any question I throw at it, and tells me the weather forecast - all I have to do is ask Alexa. The compact Echo Pop is Amazon's latest smart speaker. It shares all the same features I love about the Echo Dot but in a more compact design. The best part? Amazon's Cyber Monday sale has included a free Amazon Basics Smart Color Bulb for just $17.99 - a massive 66% discount. Echo Pop + Amazon Basics Smart Color Bulb: was $39.99 now $17.99 at Amazon If you're looking for the cheapest Cyber Monday OLED TV deal, Best Buy has LG's excellent 48-inch B4 OLED TV on sale for $599.99 - an incredible price for an OLED display. LG's B4 self-lit OLED pixels and Dolby Vision together enhance color and contrast beyond what the average backlit TV can do. Its built-in gaming features and 120Hz refresh rate make it an unbeatable deal for gamers looking for an upgrade. LG 48-inch B4 OLED TV: was $1,499.99 now $599.99 at Best Buy Welcome to this afternoon's live coverage of all the best Cyber Monday deals still available. While there are just hours left until most offers expire, there are plenty of deals to shop from retailers like Amazon, Best Buy, and Walmart. I'll highlight all the top offers on tech gadgets, appliances, and beauty items from brands like Apple, Samsung, Bissell, Dyson, Sony, and Keurig. The TechRadar team has also reviewed most of the products listed in the guide so we can help you find the right product at the lowest price possible. Remember that Amazon, Best Buy, and Walmart's Cyber Monday sales end tonight, and this might be your last chance to score your dream purchase at a record-low price. Ending soon: 75 best Amazon Cyber Monday deals I'd recommend as a five year sales veteran I took the term LEGO house quite literally and now I have no more space for these excellent LEGO Cyber Monday deals Trust me, you shouldn’t let Cyber Monday pass without scoring a deal on one of these bricktastic Lego sets

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Joe Burrow is no longer talking about the playoffs after another loss by the high-scoring Bengals CINCINNATI (AP) — The Cincinnati Bengals have found all manner of ways to lose close games this season. Mitch Stacy, The Associated Press Dec 2, 2024 2:30 PM Dec 2, 2024 2:35 PM Share by Email Share on Facebook Share on X Share on LinkedIn Print Share via Text Message Cincinnati Bengals quarterback Joe Burrow (9) walks off the field after his team's loss to the Pittsburgh Steelers in an NFL football game Sunday, Dec. 1, 2024, in Cincinnati. (AP Photo/Jeff Dean) CINCINNATI (AP) — The Cincinnati Bengals have found all manner of ways to lose close games this season. Sunday's 44-38 loss to AFC North rival Pittsburgh can be blamed on a defense that missed tackles and allowed 520 yards of offense, and three turnovers by Joe Burrow. It's become a familiar story in this disappointing season. Cincinnati (4-8) keeps scoring lots of points but can't close out games. Seven of the Bengals’ eight losses this year have been by one score. Burrow has stopped talking about the possibility of going on a run and making the playoffs. He'd just like to win another game or two. “Playoffs are the furthest thing from my mind,” the fifth-year quarterback said. “You never know what can happen, so I’ll keep putting one foot in front of the other and try to be the best player I can be for the rest of the season, week in and week out.” The Bengals allowed Steelers quarterback Russell Wilson to throw for a season-high 414 yards and three touchdowns. After Wilson threw an interception that was returned for a touchdown, the Steelers (9-3) scored on seven of their last nine possessions. They didn't punt until early in the fourth quarter. Burrow lost two fumbles and threw an interception. “We haven’t done enough to earn the win,” coach Zac Taylor said. “It’s a simple as that. It’s nobody else’s fault but our own. We haven’t earned it.” What’s working Turnovers aside, Burrow had another strong game, finishing with 28 for 38 for 309 yards with three touchdowns. Burrow is having a great season statistically, and he hasn't hidden his disappointment and frustration about Cincinnati's narrow losses. ... WR Ja'Marr Chase had a touchdown catch to bring his league-leading total to 13. What needs help The defense missed tackles and couldn't hold off the Steelers, even with Burrow keeping the game close. It didn’t help that LB Logan Wilson (knee) and DT Sheldon Rankins (illness) had to sit out. The Bengals have allowed 34 or more points six times, including in four of the past five games. Cincinnati became the first NFL team to lose four games in a season in which it scored 33 points or more. Stock up RB Chase Brown has been dependable as the featured back since Zack Moss went down with a neck injury. He rushed for 70 yards and a touchdown against the Steelers. He also had three catches for 30 yards. The second-year back has 677 yards rushing and six TDs. “He’s really coming along, improving his game every single week,” Burrow said. “Pass game, run game, running hard, understanding his protection responsibilities. He’s a guy that practices hard, plays hard, and a guy you can count on.” Stock down The Bengals' coaching staff. Something has got to give. There was no excuse for the defense to play this badly after a bye week. The unit gave up 500-plus yards for the second time this season. Injuries None were reported in the game. Key number 30.3 — The average points per game by the Bengals against teams with a .500 or better record this season. They are 0-7 in those games. Next steps The Bengals will try to regroup before facing the Dallas Cowboys (5-7) next Monday night. ___ AP NFL: https://apnews.com/hub/NFL Mitch Stacy, The Associated Press See a typo/mistake? Have a story/tip? This has been shared 0 times 0 Shares Share by Email Share on Facebook Share on X Share on LinkedIn Print Share via Text Message Get your daily Victoria news briefing Email Sign Up More Football (NFL) Patriots turn their attention to the future after being eliminated from playoff contention Dec 2, 2024 2:54 PM 49ers running back Christian McCaffrey headed to IR with an injured right knee Dec 2, 2024 2:47 PM Titans are their own worst enemy as they fail again to string together wins Dec 2, 2024 2:36 PM

New Delhi: A unique digital governance platform in India, PRAGATI, led by Prime Minister Narendra Modi, has transformed the delivery of the country’s infrastructure projects, a study by Saïd Business School, University of Oxford, and the Gates Foundation has found. Pro-Active Governance and Timely Implementation (PRAGATI) has driven accountability at the most senior level and supported unprecedented federal and regional collaboration, accelerating 340 projects worth $205 billion and cutting through decades of delays, the study noted. The findings were released on Monday at a symposium hosted by the Indian Institute of Management (IIM) Bengaluru, which brought together leaders from academia and the public and private sectors to discuss how digital governance can transform infrastructure development. Titled ‘From Gridlock to Growth: How Leadership Enables India’s PRAGATI Ecosystem to Power Progress’, the case study noted that many of the 340 projects were anywhere from three to 20 years overdue. This new model not only does away with layers of obfuscation, but introduces an element of “naming and shaming” that compels officials to be directly answerable, the study has found. “PRAGATI shows us it is essential for nations to cultivate an environment where top leadership is using technology to drive cross-collaboration and regular accountability reviews. This is particularly valuable for countries aiming to make infrastructure development a pillar of economic growth,” said Soumitra Dutta, Peter Moores Dean and Professor of Management at University of Oxford. “The transition towards such systems may require initial investment and cultural shifts, but the long-term benefits of more reliable infrastructure and public trust are immeasurable, delivering a ripple effect of efficiency and success in their development agenda,” he said. Meanwhile, Prime Minister Modi expressed happiness at the recognition of PRAGATI effectiveness. “PRAGATI represents a wonderful amalgamation of technology and governance, ensuring silos are removed and projects are completed on time. Over the years, these sessions have led to substantive benefits, which have greatly benefitted people,” he said on X. The case study has found that the ministries and departments are now more responsive to citizen grievances, knowing that their performance will be reviewed at the highest level and subjected to a data-driven analysis. “In India’s complex federal structure, fostering cooperation between the central government and states – regardless of which political party is in power at the Centre or the states – is crucial for effective governance. The relationship between the central government and states has historically been marked by political tensions and competing priorities,” the study noted. “Different political parties often control different states, and partisan differences can easily derail important initiatives. Yet PRAGATI has emerged as a powerful demonstration of cooperative federalism in action – showing how central and state governments can work together effectively regardless of political affiliations when focused on shared development goals,” it added. The case study has recommended that potential exists to further enhance the Team India approach through PRAGATI.NoneOur community members are treated to special offers, promotions and adverts from us and our partners. You can check out at any time. More info NBA superstar LeBron James is taking a break from social media over "hate and negativity" spread online. James, the NBA's oldest active player – he turns 40 next month – is a four-time NBA champion and a three-time Olympic gold medallist, the most recent of those coming earlier this year at the Paris Games. But despite his success, the criticism from the media has sparked a backlash. The league's all-time leading scorer and Los Angeles Lakers forward posted the announcement on X and Instagram...

F or the benefit of the uninitiated, The Traitors is a BBC One game show involving 22 players, classed as either Traitors or Faithfuls. Staged at a Scottish castle (Ardross Castle in the Highlands, north of Inverness), it features a group of selected Traitors who must “murder” the Faithful, while the Faithful identify and banish Traitors. If a Traitor evades detection and makes it to the end, they swipe the entire prize pot, totalling as much as £120k. So, yes, it’s a gameshow, but, as those in thrall to the cloaked global entertainment franchise could tell you, it’s also so much more than that. It’s a dark and terrible dance of back-stabbing and scheming. It’s the pungent base notes of human nature. It’s the cynical celebration of deceit as a life skill. It’s “Let’s turn calculated personal betrayal into a gameshow!”. Indeed, what does the full-hearted embrace of The Traitors say about the modern British psyche, and are we ready to hear it? The Traitors has been a huge critical and commercial success. Last January, with streaming and catch-up taken into account, eight million people watched the final episode of series two, in which (spoiler klaxon) Traitor Harry Clark betrayed Faithfuls – his heartbroken friend Mollie Pearce and sceptical Jaz Singh – to become the victor. Versions of the show exist in countries including Australia, the US, New Zealand and Canada. An Irish Traitors is in the pipeline, to be hosted by Siobhán McSweeney (Sister Michael from Derry Girls) . A UK celebrity version is planned, with names bandied about including Stephen Fry, Bob Mortimer, Danny Dyer and Courtney Cox from Friends . Here, then, is one significant metric of The Traitors ’ immense cultural clout: the famous (even the very famous) are enthused about doing it. Not this time the defeated trudge into the I’m a Celebrity ... Get Me Out of Here! jungle to pay an overdue tax bill, or the grim endurance of the Big Brother mixed-sex dormitory to remind the public they’re alive and available for regional panto. Yes, there’d be exposure for celebrity Traitors and Faithfuls, and money (presumably for charity), but you rather get the feeling it would primarily be for larks. Thus far in the UK version, it’s all about the ordinary contestants – the big characters (wily Wilf; sharp Diane; perfidious Paul). The insights into the human condition (you can tell a lot about someone by how they deal with the stress of banishments at the round table). Who takes themselves too seriously or not seriously enough? The hilarious self-aggrandisement (“I can read people”). The point when an over-confident Traitor pushes the Machiavellian buttons too hard and ends up dispatched in a puff of hubris. The Traitors has also proved to be a tormented crucible for crises of confidence. While Jaz Singh, dubbed “Jazatha Christie”, rightly suspected Clark, he didn’t think he’d get the backing to vote him off. Castle politics and self-preservation play a significant part at banishments;in the early rounds, it’s evident that people vote with the herd to avoid being targeted themselves. Along with the anthropologist people-watching element, there’s the sheer theatre of it all: the swishing hooded robes; the doomy drama of Traitors’ Tower; the messages to the murder victims that they’ve been offed; the portraits on the wall of the breakfast room, with crosses scrawled over the faces of the departed; the lavish breakfasts themselves, where the Traitors must be on their amateur rep A-game: faking surprise and sadness at the non-appearance of the victim, their crocodile tears falling into the croissant baskets. Sign up to Observed Analysis and opinion on the week's news and culture brought to you by the best Observer writers after newsletter promotion While the show feels quintessentially British, it’s actually European: based on the Dutch show De Verraders , itself a spin on the party game, Mafia. Nevertheless, The Traitors seems to entwine with our national identity, and even some feudal, kinkily masochistic impulse (the intimidating castle; the autocratic Claudia). It’s interesting how differently other countries approach the formatting/casting. The US version, hosted by Alan Cumming, going heavy on celebrities; the Australians less formal, and so on. In Britain, The Traitors could be tapping into the “cosy crime” wave. That bit of us that still enjoys an Agatha Christie adaptation and a game of Cluedo. As a TV format, it may even have the advantage of being politician-resistant. After all, it seems unlikely that a political reputation could be rescued by appearing: “Oh look, they’re as conniving as we suspected them to be.” The Winkleman factor shouldn’t be underestimated. Having started out as a quasi-goth late-onset ladette, now she brings myriad atmospheres to British TV (ironic/chummy in Strictly ; charmed/supportive in Channel 4’s The Piano ). In The Traitors, she’s a symphony of tweed in her seemingly inexhaustible collection of upmarket hacking jackets, abandoning her mainstream mash-up presenting persona and channelling a hyper-stern Anne Robinson, with added Morticia Addams and a dash of a minor character from a Nancy Mitford novel. Crucially, Winkleman is not just the presenter, she is also the controller, as evident from the start as she stalks around the table, silently selecting her Traitors, her hand clamping commandingly on to delighted shoulders. Winkleman is both part of the intrinsic ceremony of the format, and (unsmiling, unfriendly, cold) the antithesis of what a presenter usually is. It is to her credit that The Traitors would be quite a different show without her. All that said, The Traitors is far from perfect as a format. Those tedious overlong tasks to build the prize pot are only interesting for the car rides to and from, during which Traitors and Faithfuls plot for the next banishment among the pine air fresheners and boiled car sweets. Still, never mind why we enjoy The Traitors . Should we enjoy it? There’s intense emotion to it that can’t be brushed off as mere entertainment. Clark’s betrayal of Pearce wasn’t just “great telly”, it was real – to her. If this doesn’t bother people, why not? Maybe it’s not such a major surprise: the British public has always had a naughty, even evil, side. It’s also a reminder that The Traitors is, at core, a survivalist show, a test of endurance. It’s not just about the psychology of the game, it’s also about the psychology of those watching – the thing that, for viewers, makes The Traitors more than a sofa-bound murder weekend accessible via a remote control. This is televisual darkness as stress relief. Real life is brutal: perhaps reaching counterintuitively for release in the form of synthetic orchestrated treachery makes a wicked kind of sense.Qatar tribune Tribune News Network Doha As Qatar continues its drive for a sustainable and diversified economy, the logistics and transportation sector must actively contribute to this transformation, Sheikh Abdulla bin Fahad bin Jassim bin Jaber Al Thani, GWC Group Managing Director, has said. He was addressing the third Qatar Supply Chain Management Conference (SCMC), which was supported by Gulf Warehousing Company as a platinum sponsor. Under the patronage of Minister of Transport HE Sheikh Mohammed bin Abdulla bin Mohammed Al Thani, the event took place on Monday, highlighting best practices for enhancing supply chain sustainability. it also highlighted the role of digital transformation in facilitating supply chains and ensuring the flow of goods amid global challenges as well as strategies to enhance recovery and sustain supply chains. Sheikh Abdulla said: “Our sponsorship of this conference aligns with the company’s strategic objectives to support initiatives that drive supply chain development, especially amid the challenges facing the logistics sector. “The need to effectively manage and optimize the flow of goods and services from suppliers to consumers has never been more critical.” In Qatar, he added, logistics services play a vital role, extending beyond the transportation of goods from one point to another to include bolstering trade flows, supporting sustainable development goals, and driving economic diversification. “This highlights the key role our work in the logistics sector plays in building a competitive, resilient, and diversified economy in line with Qatar National Vision 2030. “This vision serves as a guiding compass, steering us toward sustainable development that balances economic growth with environmental and social responsibility. “Today, our sector is at a crucial crossroads, amidst rapid transformations driven by digitalization, the growing demand for sustainability, and the urgent need to minimize environmental impact. These evolving trends present both challenges and opportunities, and how we navigate them will ultimately define the future of logistics in Qatar.” Sheikh Abdulla emphasized the importance of focusing on sustainability and reducing carbon emissions, saying: “In line with our national objectives and the global agenda, we must diligently work towards achieving sustainability across all aspects of operations. To aid sustainable transformation, he said prioritizing green technology, renewable energy solutions, and carbon emission reduction strategies is necessary. The accelerating pace of digitalization in this sector has already led to a substantial shift in business practices, enhancing operational efficiency, service quality, and overall performance. “By leveraging advanced technologies like artificial intelligence, big data, and IoT solutions, we can achieve greater efficiency and respond to challenges with agility and flexibility,” Sheikh Abdulla said. “Moreover, agility is becoming increasingly critical, with the key lesson from recent years being the importance of resilience in the face of both positive and negative challenges. For instance, the global COVID-19 pandemic triggered sudden disruptions in supply chains, severely impacting the logistics sector.” Conversely, hosting the FIFA World Cup Qatar 2022 catalyzed a significant positive transformation in Qatar’s logistics landscape through innovative solutions, He said. “The logistics sector requires strong and agile supply chains capable of withstanding future disruptions. This ability to adapt is particularly vital for Qatar as we expand our partnerships and explore new markets. “GWC’s role goes far beyond just transporting goods; we are dedicated to fostering an ecosystem that drives economic growth, pioneering sustainable practices, and making significant contributions to achieving Qatar National Vision 2030. “This is not only a great honor but also a profound responsibility. It is up to all of us in this sector to embrace emerging trends, innovate, and act with purpose.” Copy 10/12/2024 10