However, the journey through these green corridors was not without its challenges. As the convoy of evacuees made its way through the war-torn country, they were met with the chilling sound of anti-aircraft fire in the distance. The threat of being targeted by military forces added a sense of urgency and fear to the already tense situation, as the Chinese nationals anxiously made their way towards safety.
Born and raised in a small town, the young midfielder, whose name has not been disclosed, has been turning heads with his exceptional skills and intelligence on the pitch. Blessed with natural talent and a keen footballing sense, he has been dubbed as the "Next Generation" by football scouts and coaches who have witnessed his remarkable performances.Meetings between the government and the opposition have been ongoing to iron out the finer details of the power transfer. Discussions have focused on key areas such as the timeline for the transition, the formation of an inclusive transitional government, and ensuring a fair and free election process in the near future.Adelyn Lau The rooftop of the Hong Kong Coliseum in Hung Hom has been coated with a cooling material to enhance energy efficiency ahead of the National Games scheduled for November next year, according to Secretary for Environment and Ecology Tse Chin-wan. Eight events will take place at six venues across Hong Kong, with the Coliseum serving as a key location. Tse said the cooling coating is projected to lower the Coliseum's average temperature to 24 degrees Celsius, resulting in an annual savings of about 300,000 kilowatt-hours of electricity - equivalent to reducing carbon emissions by about 150 tonnes. This electricity-free cooling technology, patented by i2Cool - a company established in 2021 by the energy and environment school at City University - can be applied to roofs and exterior walls to effectively lower indoor temperatures without electricity. Tse personally visited the Coliseum's rooftop and observed a significant temperature difference between the coated area and other sections. The coating covers about 9,700 square meters of the rooftop and its side walls. In addition to energy savings, the coating will extend the lifespan of the waterproof layer on the rooftop and lower maintenance costs by minimizing temperature fluctuations. Tse said in the coming year, the authority will monitor indoor temperature and air conditioning energy consumption, review test results and evaluate cost-effectiveness. "If the results are positive, we will consider promoting this technology for broader application, particularly in newly constructed or renovated public facilities," he added. The Environment and Ecology Bureau is also assisting i2Cool in identifying local sites for establishing production lines that convert recycled materials - such as tiles, ceramics and glass - into high-value raw materials for electricity-free cooling products. Since the launch of its green tech fund in 2020, the bureau has supported 33 local projects from universities, public research institutions and private enterprises, investing around HK$147 million. Also, Tse said the SAR is exploring policies to attract companies focused on developing green technologies, aiming to establish Hong Kong as a hub for showcasing such innovations. adelyn.lau@singtaonewscorp.com
The swift action taken by law enforcement in this case serves as a testament to their dedication and commitment to bringing perpetrators of violent crimes to justice. The collaborative efforts of multiple agencies working together have been instrumental in cracking this complex case and bringing closure to the victim's loved ones.
As we navigate through the winter season, it is important to prioritize self-care and pay attention to our physical and mental well-being. Engage in activities that bring you comfort and joy, whether it's enjoying a warm cup of tea, reading a book, or practicing mindfulness techniques to relax and unwind.Stocks closed higher on Wall Street ahead of the Christmas holiday, led by gains in Big Tech stocks. The S&P 500 added 1.1% Tuesday. Trading closed early ahead of the holiday. Tech companies including Apple, Amazon and chip company Broadcom helped pull the market higher. The Dow Jones Industrial Average rose 0.9%, and the Nasdaq composite climbed 1.3%. American Airlines shook off an early loss and ended mostly higher after the airline briefly grounded flights nationwide due to a technical issue. Treasury yields held steady in the bond market. On Tuesday: The S&P 500 rose 65.97 points, or 1.1%, to 6,040.04. The Dow Jones Industrial Average rose 390.08 points, or 0.9%, to 43,297.03. The Nasdaq composite rose 266.24 points, or 1.3%, to 20,031.13. The Russell 2000 index of smaller companies rose 22.42 points, or 1%, to 2,259.85 For the week: The S&P 500 is up 109.19 points, or 1.8%. The Dow is up 456.77 points, or 1.1%. The Nasdaq is up 458.53 points, or 2.3%. The Russell 2000 is up 17.48 points, or 0.8%. For the year: The S&P 500 is up 1,270.21 points, or 26.3%. The Dow is up 5,607.49 points, or 14.9%. The Nasdaq is up 5,019.77 points, or 33.4%. The Russell 2000 is up 232.78 points, or 11.5%.
As we stand on the cusp of a new era in monetary policy, it is crucial for policymakers to strike a delicate balance between supporting growth and safeguarding financial stability. The coming year holds the promise of exciting changes in interest rate dynamics, with potential implications for borrowers, savers, and the broader economy.In the end, Barcelona must weigh the risks and rewards of their decision regarding Dembélé's registration in January. The club's sporting and financial interests are at stake, and the outcome of this dilemma could have a significant impact on the team's performance and future prospects.One key area where Lazio could exploit Inter Milan's weaknesses is in defense. While the Nerazzurri have been impressive going forward, they have shown vulnerability at the back, especially against teams with clinical finishers. Lazio, with the likes of Immobile and Anderson leading the line, have the firepower to trouble Inter Milan's defense and capitalize on any lapses in concentration.
Walmart becomes latest - and biggest - company to roll back its DEI policiesThe man, whose identity remains confidential, was born in a remote village in China. At the tender age of 5, he was snatched from his family and sold into child trafficking. This initial abduction marked the beginning of a long and agonizing search for his true origins.
Wall Street stocks were little changed on Thursday while Asian equities rose in thin Boxing Day trade, extending their "Santa Claus Rally" with several bourses still shut for the holiday. Japan's Nikkei index closed up 1.1 percent, boosted by comments from the Bank of Japan governor and share price gains for top-selling automaker Toyota. China's plans for massive bond issuances in 2025 also bolstered investor sentiment. "Even though many in the region are still shaking off a bit of a holiday hangover, with several markets closed for Boxing Day, Asian stocks opened higher, riding a favorable wave from China's financial bond juggernaut," said Stephen Innes from SPI Asset Management. In New York, major indices veered in and out of positive territory in a sleepy post-Christmas session. The broad-based S&P 500 finished down less than 0.1 percent. Large technology companies that have led the market in much of 2024 mostly took a breather. These included Netflix, Tesla and Amazon, all of which declined. "What's interesting today is that we're seeing small stocks bounce back a little bit," said Steve Sosnick of Interactive Brokers, noting that the Russell 2000 index put on 0.9 percent. Holiday consumer data showed a 3.8-percent increase in US retail spending from November 1 to December 24, according to a Mastercard SpendingPulse review of a key period for retailers. London Stockton, an analyst at Ned Davis Research, noted that the "Santa Claus rally could still be alive, with strong seasonality into the end of the year." Stock markets have traditionally fared well in the last five trading days of the year and the first two in the new year, a trend known as the "Santa Claus rally." Among a number of possible reasons advanced by experts include the festive holiday mood and purchasing ahead of the end of the tax year. Innes said remarks from Bank of Japan governor Kazuo Ueda in which he refrained from signaling a potential interest rate hike next month also "influenced bullish regional sentiments." Japanese market heavyweight Toyota ended nearly six percent higher after reports in the Nikkei business daily said it aimed to double its return on equity -- a key measure of a company's financial performance. New York - Dow: UP 0.1 percent at 43,325.80 (close) New York - S&P 500: DOWN less than 0.1 percent at 6,037.59 (close) New York - Nasdaq: DOWN 0.1 percent at 20,020.36 (close) Tokyo - Nikkei 225: UP 1.1 percent at 39,568.06 points (close) Hang Seng: UP 1.1 percent at 20,098.29 points (Tuesday close) Shanghai - Composite: UP 0.1 percent at 3,398.08 points (close) Euro/dollar: UP at $1.0424 from $1.0414 on Tuesday Pound/dollar: DOWN at $1.2526 from $1.2538 Dollar/yen: UP at 158.00 yen from 157.06 yen Euro/pound: UP at 83.19 pence from 83.05 pence West Texas Intermediate: DOWN 0.7 percent at $69.62 per barrel Brent North Sea Crude: DOWN 0.4 percent at $73.26 per barrel bur-jmb/ahaAs scientists continue to monitor the seismic activity in Nevada, it is essential for residents to stay informed and aware of the potential risks. Earthquakes are unpredictable and can strike without warning, underscoring the importance of preparedness and readiness. By taking proactive steps to safeguard their homes and families, individuals can mitigate the impact of natural disasters and ensure their safety.Cade Lucas This story was one of the top stories from 2024 and was originally published in February. Visiting the graves of loved ones is usually an emotional experience, something Hoppers Crossing’s Margherita Loviscotto knows better than most. Since her son Gabriele’s death in 1985, Ms Loviscotto has visited his burial site at Werribee Cemetery on countless occasions, often attending two to three times a week. But after nearly 40 years, the 86 year old has had to scale back her cemetery visits, with a recent illness forcing her to go three weeks without tending to Gabriele’s grave, her longest absence since his passing. Her eventual return on Tuesday January 30 left Ms Loviscotto more emotional than ever. “Werribee Cemetery is a disgrace,” she said of the condition she found it in. “The grass was my height, there was grass everywhere. The weeds were everywhere. “I felt like crying.” Ms Loviscotto is far from alone in being upset with the condition of the cemetery. A subsequent social media inquiry by the Star Weekly attracted a stream of angry responses from Wyndham residents, with the cemetery variously described as ‘a disgrace’, ‘disgraceful,’ ‘crap,’ ‘grim and very unkept,’ and ‘not good enough.’ Like Ms Loviscotto, many remarked on the amount of grass and weeds that have been allowed to grow on the cemetery grounds. Vegetation overgrowth has been an issue across many public green spaces throughout Wyndham following unseasonably heavy summer rains. Wyndham council recently advised that it was struggling to deal with the amount of vegetation growth over the Christmas and New Year period and that mowing and lawn maintenance would take longer than usual. However, Werribee Cemetery is no longer the responsibility of Wyndham council, with The Greater Metropolitan Cemeteries Trust (GMCT), that also operates cemeteries in Altona and Fawkner, taking over management in 2010. Margherita Loviscotto said she’d noticed a decline in the condition of the cemetery ever since. “Since the trustee took it over, the cemetery is neglected,” she said. “Before when the it was the council in charge, they cut the grass every two weeks and it was nice and clean.” Chief operations and people officer at GMCT, Dimi Patsisas, said the cemetery was mowed only days before Ms Loviscotto’s January 30 visit. “We are committed to maintaining Werribee Cemetery with care and respect,” he said. “We deployed additional staff there last Thursday (25 January) for maintenance, as a result of grass and weeds growing faster due to the unusually wet summer.” While GMCT is responsible for public spaces at the cemetery, care and maintenance of individual grave sites is up to family members, with many using their own equipment to cut grass around them. Despite criticism, few complaints about the condition of Werribee Cemetery are believed to have been lodged with GMCT.
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The prospect of the United States withdrawing from NATO raises a number of concerns and questions about the future of the organization. Would other member countries follow suit? How would the security dynamics in the region change? What impact would it have on global stability and cooperation?Under the hood, the Xiaomi YU7 is powered by an efficient electric drivetrain that offers a perfect blend of power, performance, and sustainability. Equipped with state-of-the-art battery technology, the YU7 promises impressive range on a single charge, making it the ideal choice for eco-conscious consumers who prioritize environmental friendliness and energy efficiency.
The sudden and tragic passing of internet celebrity "Liu Dabeili" has shocked and saddened fans around the world. Liu Dabeili, known for her beauty and vibrant online presence, tragically lost her life following complications from a liposuction surgery she underwent at a local hospital. The news of her death has sparked a wave of concern and scrutiny over the growing trend of cosmetic procedures among young influencers.Tonight, Dean McCullough had the prospect of a sixth trial of the series so far, much to a few people's annoyance, but it was Jane Moore who got people talking. Last night, Barry and Danny decided on the new chores each campmate would be doing from now on, Loose Women's Jane Moore accused Barry of being "sexist" and "ageist". Barry explained: "We were looking at you for possible water duty and I thought 'well, you're 62 years old, you're a year younger than me'." As Jane shook her head, she exclaimed: "Ageist and sexist!" Tonight, Jane Moore was slammed on social media. On X, one fan posted: "Jane comes across a bit of a martyr. She isn't the only one on dishes duty. Why is she acting like it is her sole responsibility #imaceleb". Another simply said: "We need to vote for Jane to do a trial next". Someone else commented: "GK said it, vote Jane (more important because she had a strop at Danny and Barry and ruined their night!)". On Sunday (24 November), Coleen Rooney and Dean McCullough faced a gruesome Bushtucker Trial, winning nine stars for the camp. However, McCullough was again voted to face Monday’s trial “Jack the Screamstalk,” much to the frustrations of Ant and Dec (and the public). Elsewhere, Jane Moore and Barry McGuigan argued over chores. McGuigan and Danny Jones were voted by the public to become the new camp leaders. Recommended reading: I'm a Celeb 2024: Viewers can't believe Maura Higgins' age I’m A Celebrity fans praise McFly’s Danny Jones Dean McCullough faces scrutiny for I’m A Celeb act The pair set about upsetting the jungle apple cart by selecting Moore and Tulisa to wash up, and Coleen Rooney and Maura Higgins to act out the duties of camp maintenance. Despite Jones’s initial worry that women were being asked to do less physical tasks and that it could be taken negatively, McGuigan brushed it off. Moore accused McGuigan of “misogyny” and later “ageism” when he used her age as a justification for his and Jones’s decisions.Tragically, the surgery did not go as planned, and Liu Dabeili experienced severe complications that led to her hospitalization. Despite the efforts of medical professionals, she passed away due to complications arising from the procedure. The news of her death sent shockwaves through the online community, with fans expressing their disbelief and sorrow over the loss of their beloved influencer.
Lauren Boebert briefly joins Cameo, charging $250+ for personalized video messagesJerome Ford questionable to return with ankle injury
In goal, there are no surprises as Thibaut Courtois continues to be the undisputed number one choice for Zidane between the posts. The Belgian shot-stopper has been in fine form this season, providing a safe pair of hands for the team.In order to address this issue and relieve the pressure on Saka, Arsenal must prioritize strengthening the left side of their attack. This can be done through tactical adjustments, player acquisitions, or by providing more support from other areas of the pitch.Jimmy Carter Dies: Longest-Living U.S. President Was 100