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SEC rushing leader Dylan Sampson of Tennessee declares for NFL draft

Jones, Mellott help Montana State run over Montana 34-11Thanksgiving Weekend Sports Guide: Your roadmap to NFL matchups, other games, times, odds

The long sports-filled Thanksgiving weekend is a time when many Americans enjoy gathering with friends and family for good food, good company and hopefully not too much political conversation. Also on the menu — all the NFL and college sports you can handle. Here's a roadmap to one of the biggest sports weekends of the year, with a look at marquee games over the holiday and how to watch. All times are in EST. All odds are by BetMGM Sportsbook. • NFL: There is a triple-header lined up for pro football fans. Chicago at Detroit, 12:30 p.m., CBS: Rookie quarterback Caleb Williams and the Bears go against the Lions, who are one of the favorites to reach the Super Bowl in February. Lions favored by 10. New York at Dallas, 4:30 p.m., Fox: The Giants and Cowboys are both suffering through miserable seasons and are now using backup quarterbacks for different reasons. But if Dallas can figure out a way to win, it will still be on the fringe of the playoff race. Cowboys favored by 3 1/2. Miami at Green Bay, 8:20 p.m., NBC/Peacock: The Packers stumbled slightly out of the gate but have won six of their past seven games. They'll need a win against Miami to try to keep pace in the NFC North. Packers favored by 3. • College Football: Memphis at No. 18 Tulane, 7:30 p.m., ESPN. If college football is your jam, this is a good warmup for a big weekend. The Tigers try to ruin the Green Wave’s perfect record in the American Athletic Conference. Tulane is favored by 14. • NFL: A rare Friday showdown features the league-leading Chiefs. Las Vegas at Kansas City, 3 p.m. Prime Video: The Chiefs and quarterback Patrick Mahomes are 12-point favorites over the Raiders. • College Basketball: Some of the top programs meet in holiday tournaments around the country. Battle 4 Atlantis championship, 5:30 p.m., ESPN: One of the premier early season tournaments, the eight-team field includes No. 3 Gonzaga, No. 14 Indiana and No. 24 Arizona. Rady Children's Invitational, 6 p.m., Fox: It's the championship game for a four-team field that includes No. 13 Purdue and No. 23 Mississippi. • College Football: There is a full slate of college games to dig into. Oregon State at No. 11 Boise State, noon, Fox: The Broncos try to stay in the College Football Playoff hunt when they host the Beavers. Boise State favored by 19 1/2. Oklahoma State at No. 23 Colorado, noon, ABC: The Buffaloes and Coach Prime are still in the hunt for the Big 12 championship game when they host the Cowboys. Colorado favored by 16 1/2. Georgia Tech at No. 6 Georgia, 7:30 p.m., ABC: The Bulldogs are on pace for a spot in the CFP but host what could be a tricky game against rival Georgia Tech. Georgia favored by 19 1/2. • NBA. After taking Thanksgiving off, pro basketball returns. Oklahoma City at Los Angeles Lakers, 10 p.m., ESPN: The Thunder look like one of the best teams in the NBA's Western Conference. They'll host Anthony Davis, LeBron James and the Lakers. Listen now and subscribe: Apple Podcasts | Google Podcasts | Spotify | RSS Feed | SoundStack | All Of Our Podcasts • College Football. There are more matchups with playoff implications. Michigan at No. 2 Ohio State, noon, Fox: The Wolverines are struggling one season after winning the national title. They could make their fan base a whole lot happier with an upset of the Buckeyes. Ohio State favored by 21. No. 7 Tennessee at Vanderbilt, noon, ABC: The Volunteers are a fairly big favorite and have dominated this series, but the Commodores have been a tough team this season and already have achieved a monumental upset over Alabama. Tennessee favored by 11. No. 16 South Carolina at No. 12 Clemson, noon, ESPN: The Palmetto State rivals are both hanging on the edge of the CFP playoff race. A win — particularly for Clemson — would go a long way toward clinching its spot in the field. Clemson favored by 2 1/2. No. 3 Texas at No. 20 Texas A&M, 7:30 p.m. ABC: The Aggies host their in-state rival for the first time since 2011 after the Longhorns joined the SEC. Texas favored by 5 1/2. Washington at No. 1 Oregon, 7:30 p.m., NBC: The top-ranked Ducks have been one of the nation’s best teams all season. They’ll face the Huskies, who would love a marquee win in coach Jedd Fisch’s first season. Oregon favored by 19 1/2. • NBA: A star-studded clash is part of the league's lineup. Golden State at Phoenix, 9 p.m., NBA TV: Steph Curry and the Warriors are set to face the Suns' Big Three of Kevin Durant, Devin Booker and Bradley Beal. • NFL: It's Sunday, that says it all. Pittsburgh at Cincinnati, 1 p.m., CBS: Joe Burrow is having a great season for the Bengals, who are struggling in other areas. They need a win to stay in the playoff race, hosting a Steelers team that's 8-3 and won five of their past six. Bengals favored by 3. Arizona at Minnesota, 1 p.m., Fox: The Cardinals are tied for the top of the NFC West while the Vikings are 9-2 and have been one of the biggest surprises of the season with journeyman Sam Darnold under center. Vikings favored by 3 1/2. Philadelphia at Baltimore, 4:25 p.m., CBS: Two of the league's most electric players will be on the field when Saquon Barkley and the Eagles travel to face Lamar Jackson and the Ravens. Ravens favored by 3. San Francisco at Buffalo, 8:20 p.m. NBC/Peacock: The 49ers try to get back to .500 against the Bills, who have won six straight. Bills favored by 7. • NBA. The best teams in the Eastern Conference meet in a statement game. Boston at Cleveland, 6 p.m., NBA TV: The defending champion Celtics travel to face the Cavs, who won their first 15 games to start the season. • Premier League: English soccer fans have a marquee matchup. Manchester City at Liverpool, 11 a.m., USA Network/Telemundo. The two top teams meet with Manchester City trying to shake off recent struggles. • Auto Racing: The F1 season nears its conclusion. F1 Qatar Grand Prix, 11 a.m., ESPN2 – It's the penultimate race of the season. Max Verstappen already has clinched his fourth consecutive season championship. Before the 2023 National Football League season started, it seemed inevitable that Bill Belichick would end his career as the winningest head coach in league history. He had won six Super Bowls with the New England Patriots and 298 regular-season games, plus 31 playoff games, across his career. Then the 2023 season happened. Belichick's Patriots finished 4-13, the franchise's worst record since 1992. At the end of the year, Belichick and New England owner Robert Kraft agreed to part ways. And now, during the 2024 season, Belichick is on the sideline. He's 26 wins from the #1 spot, a mark he'd reach in little more than two seasons if he maintained his .647 career winning percentage. Will he ascend the summit? It's hard to tell. Belichick would be 73 if he graced the sidelines next season—meaning he'd need to coach until at least 75 to break the all-time mark. Only one other NFL coach has ever helmed a team at age 73: Romeo Crennel in 2020 for the Houston Texans. With Belichick's pursuit of history stalled, it's worth glancing at the legends who have reached the pinnacle of coaching success. Who else stands among the 10 winningest coaches in NFL history? Stacker ranked the coaches with the most all-time regular-season wins using data from Pro Football Reference . These coaches have combined for 36 league championships, which represents 31.6% of all championships won throughout the history of pro football. To learn who made the list, keep reading. You may also like: Ranking the biggest NFL Draft busts of the last 30 years Bettmann/Contributor // Getty Images - Seasons coached: 23 - Years active: 1981-2003 - Record: 190-165-2 - Winning percentage: .535 - Championships: 0 Dan Reeves reached the Super Bowl four times—thrice with the Denver Broncos and once with the Atlanta Falcons—but never won the NFL's crown jewel. Still, he racked up nearly 200 wins across his 23-year career, including a stint in charge of the New York Giants, with whom he won Coach of the Year in 1993. In all his tenures, he quickly built contenders—the three clubs he coached were a combined 17-31 the year before Reeves joined and 28-20 in his first year. However, his career ended on a sour note as he was fired from a 3-10 Falcons team after Week 14 in 2003. Bettmann/Contributor // Getty Images - Seasons coached: 23 - Years active: 1969-91 - Record: 193-148-1 - Winning percentage: .566 - Championships: 4 Chuck Noll's Pittsburgh Steelers were synonymous with success in the 1970s. Behind his defense, known as the Steel Curtain, and offensive stars, including Terry Bradshaw, Franco Harris, and Lynn Swann, Noll led the squad to four Super Bowl victories from 1974 to 1979. Noll's Steelers remain the lone team to win four Super Bowls in six years, though Andy Reid and Kansas City could equal that mark if they win the Lombardi Trophy this season. Noll was elected to the Pro Football Hall of Fame in 1993, two years after retiring. His legacy of coaching success has carried on in Pittsburgh—the club has had only two coaches (Bill Cowher and Mike Tomlin) since Noll retired. Focus on Sport // Getty Images - Seasons coached: 21 - Years active: 1984-98, 2001-06 - Record: 200-126-1 - Winning percentage: .613 - Championships: 0 As head coach of Cleveland, Kansas City, Washington, and San Diego, Marty Schottenheimer proved a successful leader during the regular season. Notably, he was named Coach of the Year after turning around his 4-12 Chargers team to a 12-4 record in 2004. His teams, however, struggled during the playoffs. Schottheimer went 5-13 in the postseason, and he never made it past the conference championship round. As such, the Pennsylvania-born skipper is the winningest NFL coach never to win a league championship. Focus on Sport // Getty Images - Seasons coached: 25 - Years active: 1946-62, '68-75 - Record: 213-104-9 - Winning percentage: .672 - Championships: 7 The only coach on this list to pilot a college team, Paul Brown, reached the pro ranks after a three-year stint at Ohio State and two years with the Navy during World War II. He guided the Cleveland Browns—named after Brown, their first coach—to four straight titles in the fledgling All-America Football Conference. After the league folded, the ballclub moved to the NFL in 1950, and Cleveland continued its winning ways, with Brown leading the team to championships in '50, '54, and '55. He was fired in 1963 but returned in 1968 as the co-founder and coach of the Cincinnati Bengals. His other notable accomplishments include helping to invent the face mask and breaking pro football's color barrier . Bettmann/Contributor // Getty Images - Seasons coached: 33 - Years active: 1921-53 - Record: 226-132-22 - Winning percentage: .631 - Championships: 6 An early stalwart of the NFL, Curly Lambeau spent 29 years helming the Green Bay Packers before wrapping up his coaching career with two-year stints with the Chicago Cardinals and Washington. His Packers won titles across three decades, including the league's first three-peat from 1929-31. Notably, he experienced only one losing season during his first 27 years with Green Bay, cementing his legacy of consistent success. Born in Green Bay, Lambeau co-founded the Packers and played halfback on the team from 1919-29. He was elected to the Hall of Fame as a coach and owner in 1963, two years before his death. You may also like: Countries with the most active NFL players Bettmann/Contributor // Getty Images - Seasons coached: 29 - Years active: 1960-88 - Record: 250-162-6 - Winning percentage: .607 - Championships: 2 The first head coach of the Dallas Cowboys, Tom Landry held the position for his entire 29-year tenure as an NFL coach. The Cowboys were especially dominant in the 1970s when they made five Super Bowls and won the big game twice. Landry was known for coaching strong all-around squads and a unit that earned the nickname the "Doomsday Defense." Between 1966 and 1985, Landry and his Cowboys enjoyed 20 straight seasons with a winning record. He was elected to the Hall of Fame in 1990. Focus on Sport // Getty Images - Seasons coached: 26 - Years active: 1999-present - Record: 267-145-1 - Winning percentage: .648 - Championships: 3 The only active coach in the top 10, Andy Reid has posted successful runs with both the Philadelphia Eagles and Kansas City. After reaching the Super Bowl once in 14 years with the Eagles, Reid ratcheted things up with K.C., winning three titles since 2019. As back-to-back defending champions, Reid and Co. are looking this season to become the first franchise to three-peat in the Super Bowl era and the third to do so in NFL history after the Packers of 1929-31 and '65-67. Time will tell if Reid and his offensive wizardry can lead Kansas City to that feat. Jamie Squire // Getty Images - Seasons coached: 29 - Years active: 1991-95, 2000-23 - Record: 302-165 - Winning percentage: .647 - Championships: 6 The most successful head coach of the 21st century, Bill Belichick first coached the Cleveland Browns before taking over the New England Patriots in 2000. With the Pats, Belichick combined with quarterback Tom Brady to win six Super Bowls in 18 years. Belichick and New England split after last season when the Patriots went 4-13—the worst record of Belichick's career. His name has swirled around potential coaching openings , but nothing has come of it. Belichick has remained in the media spotlight with his regular slot on the "Monday Night Football" ManningCast. Tom Pennington // Getty Images - Seasons coached: 40 - Years active: 1920-29, '33-42, '46-55, '58-67 - Record: 318-148-31 - Winning percentage: .682 - Championships: 6 George Halas was the founder and longtime owner of the Chicago Bears and coached the team across four separate stints. Nicknamed "Papa Bear," he built the ballclub into one of the NFL's premier franchises behind players such as Bronko Nagurski and Sid Luckman. Halas also played for the team, competing as a player-coach in the 1920s. The first coach to study opponents via game film, he was once a baseball player and even made 12 appearances as a member of the New York Yankees in 1919. He was inducted into the Hall of Fame in 1963 as both a coach and owner. Bettmann/Contributor // Getty Images - Seasons coached: 33 - Years active: 1963-95 - Record: 328-156-6 - Winning percentage: .677 - Championships: 2 The winningest head coach in NFL history is Don Shula, who first coached the Baltimore Colts (losing Super Bowl III to Joe Namath and the New York Jets) for seven years before leading the Miami Dolphins for 26 seasons. With the Fins, Shula won back-to-back Super Bowls in 1972 and 1973, a run that included a 17-0 season—the only perfect campaign in NFL history. He also coached quarterback great Dan Marino in the 1980s and '90s, but the pair made it to a Super Bowl just once. Shula was inducted into the Hall of Fame in 1997. Story editing by Mike Taylor. Copy editing by Robert Wickwire. Photo selection by Lacy Kerrick. You may also like: The 5 biggest upsets of the 2023-24 NFL regular season Bettmann/Contributor // Getty ImagesThe Minister of Finance and Coordinating Minister of the Economy, Wale Edun, on Sunday disclosed that Nigeria’s recent economic diplomacy efforts to Saudi Arabia had started yielding reasonable benefits, including investments, foreign exchange inflows, and job creation for the country. Edun had led a high-level delegation to Saudi Arabia to follow up on the president’s earlier engagements with the Saudi Crown Prince, Mohammed bin Salman. Edun, who spoke with newsmen after a brief meeting with President Bola Tinubu, stressed “What we have brought back is investment. What we have brought back is foreign exchange. What we have brought back are jobs for Nigerians” These efforts, the minister explained, are part of the administration’s broader strategy to attract foreign direct investment, trade partnerships, and financial collaborations. Highlighting a key achievement, Edun referenced the Saudi Agricultural Livestock Investment Company’s (SALIC) recent $1.2 billion investment in Olam Agri Holdings, which he described as a testament to the president’s reforms and the stabilisation of Nigeria’s macroeconomic environment. He added: “This type of transaction reflects the success of Mr. President’s strategy. It demonstrates the confidence global investors have in the steps being taken to attract and encourage such investments”. Besides, Edun stressed that the investments translate into direct job creation for Nigerians, as Saudi Arabia’s focus on investing abroad does not include exporting its own labour force. “Clearly, where they invest, that is jobs for Nigerians,” he maintained. He also stressed the government’s ongoing efforts to reduce inflation, particularly food inflation, through initiatives like dry-season farming, aimed at ensuring a bountiful harvest and lower food prices. “Every effort is being made to bring down the price of food and the cost of living for the average Nigerian,” Edun stated. The delegation to Saudi Arabia included representatives from the Central Bank of Nigeria (CBN), the Ministry of Budget and Economic Planning, and the Presidential Economic Coordination Council. The visit built on the president’s economic diplomacy efforts, which have taken him to various global capitals, including Brazil, China, India, Germany, and France. According to Edun: “The proof of the pudding is in the eating. When you see jobs being created and Nigeria’s foreign reserves being added to, that is success all Nigerians can understand.” The visit is expected to further strengthen Nigeria’s burgeoning relationship with Saudi Arabia and unlock more opportunities for economic growth and collaboration. Also, the Nigerian Economic Summit Group (NESG), one of the country’s foremost economic think-tanks, has proposed that if Africa’s most populous nation must achieve its proposed $4 trillion nominal Gross Domestic Product (GDP) by 2035, it must mobilise a total of $8.82 trillion. The organisation stated this in its H2, 2024 Economic and Policy Review (EPR) tagged: “ Achieving Economic Transformation in Nigeria.” Besides, the group noted that the ambition to hit $4 trillion in nominal GDP by 2035 in Nigeria should serve as a bedrock to achieving a sustained double-digit real GDP growth rate over the next decade until 2035, which should be in the range of 10 per cent to 15 per cent per annum. It argued that Nigeria remains at a crossroads, brimming with potential, yet grappling with the complexities of its historical socio-economic performance, stressing that although endowed with abundant human capital and vast economic resources, Nigeria’s current position on critical socio-economic indicators has not been impressive. By 2035, the NESG pointed out that Nigeria’s economy is poised to rank among the top 15 global economies, with a per capita income of $14,041.5, thereby propelling the country into the high-income category globally. Endowed with substantial human capital and economic resources, Nigeria, it said, has historically faced suboptimal socio-economic performance, with critical macro-economic and social indicators underscoring the compelling need for a thorough and all-encompassing rejuvenation of the economy. According to the NESG, the impetus behind achieving a $4 trillion economy by 2035 is rooted in the acknowledgement of Nigeria’s immense potential, abundant resources, and the necessity to expedite economic development to meet the burgeoning demands of its populace. “Expanding from less than a $500 billion economy to a $4 trillion GDP by 2035 has cost implications. Over the next 10-13 years, the Nigerian economy needs to mobilise a cumulative total of $8.82 trillion. “This comprises 18.8 per cent or $1.66 trillion of investment directly from the government, specifically on capital and infrastructure investment. The remaining 81.2 per cent or $7.16 trillion will be mobilised through the private sector, comprising existing and new capital accumulation and domestic and foreign investment flow. “As such, the government needs to spend $185.16 billion and mobilise $841.00 billion in private investment over the next four years (2024-2027) to set the pace for a transformed economy. Subsequently, the government needs to spend $501,46 billion and mobilise $2.24 trillion in private investment between 2028-2031. In the following cycle (2032-2035), the government must spend $957.04 billion while mobilising $4,05 trillion in private investment. “On average, the government has to spend $138.49 billion annually to achieve the envisioned $4 trillion GDP by 2035. With a cumulative funding need of $8.82 trillion within the next 10-13 years and an average of $737,16 billion annually, financing Nigeria’s $4 trillion GDP by 2023 appears daunting, however, not impossible,” it stated in the report. In an era characterised by rapid global economic changes, digital disruptions, and evolving geopolitical dynamics, Nigeria’s vision for 2035, NESG stressed, is set against a backdrop of formidable challenges and unparalleled opportunities. The global community’s commitment to sustainable development and the imperative of economic inclusion, the economic think-tank further said, underscores the significance of the pursuit. According to the group, the proposed pathways are intrinsically linked to the strategic objectives outlined in the President’s eight-point agenda, Nigeria Agenda 2050 and the African Union’s Africa Agenda 2063. “This is achievable considering the historical experience of Nigeria’s aspirational peers, such as China. The policy priority for the government includes developing a framework for the inter-governmental economic relationship, inter-state infrastructural development, establishing regional economic commissions, developing regional shared services and clustering, and strengthening regional value chain development. “During the initial stage of its economic transformation, China maintained an average real GDP growth rate of 10.3 per cent (from 1982 to 2011). Similarly, Japan and Germany maintained average growths of 10.5 per cent (1956 to 1973) and 9.2 per cent (1951 to 1960), respectively. “While the strategic paths aim to achieve a $4 trillion economy by 2035, they are also expected to drive improvement across socio-economic indicators. Irrespective of the strategic path, this study anticipates specific mutations in the fundamental structure of the economy that accompany a transforming economy,” the NESG noted. Moving towards the $4 trillion economy, and based on the country’s political cycle, the Nigerian economy, it maintained, could cross critical milestones of $1 trillion, $2.5 trillion, and $4 trillion by 2027, 2031, and 2035, respectively. “Furthermore, Nigeria’s per capita income is expected to cross $5,000, $10,000, and $14,000 by 2028, 2032, and 2035, respectively. Nigeria needs to massively mobilise savings to drive investment, as is the case for most countries that have experienced economic transformation over the past five decades. “But then, the continual erosion of the value of earnings due to the persistent inflationary pressure has limited Nigeria’s capacity to mobilise adequate savings. “Recent fuel subsidy removal and the exchange rate devaluation accompanying the unification of the foreign exchange markets have nearly wiped out the middle class, as most people spend over 80 per cent of their earnings on food and transport with little to zero room for savings. Hence, the government must attract capital from diverse sources to drive investment,” it added. With a visionary alignment of policies and strategic optimism, Nigeria’s economy, NESG said, possesses the potential to soar to $4 trillion within the same time frame, explaining that such growth promises expanded access to economic opportunities, uplifting millions from the depths of poverty. “According to the World Bank Group (2024), more than half of Nigeria’s population is living in poverty as of 2024. Meanwhile, as Nigeria navigates its path towards a $4 trillion economy, poverty would recede by an average of 10 million individuals annually,” the group stated. Therefore, the NESG proposed an export diversification and sophistication strategy for Nigeria to become a global export hub and regional integration champion of the African Continental Free Trade Area (AfCFTA), a free trade agreement that aims to create a single market for goods and services across the continent. It further called for innovation and digital transformation strategy in order to become a central global innovation hub and exporter of knowledge products to the world. Besides, the economic think-tank urged the country to embrace a subnational economic integration strategy to develop competitive and viable regions/sub-national economies. Deji Elumoye and Emmanuel Addeh Follow us on:

Jimmy Carter, the former President of the United States and the founder of the idea of human rights protection in U.S. foreign policy, passed away at the age of 100. In a statement released on Sunday, December 30, Carter’s family announced his death, saying that he passed away peacefully surrounded by his loved ones. Carter is remembered as the 39th President of the United States, who took office in 1977. His presidency was marked by significant changes both in the U.S. and the Middle East. On one hand, the shadow of the Vietnam War loomed, while on the other, the rise of Islamist groups in the Middle East and the Soviet Union’s involvement in Afghanistan influenced U.S. foreign policy during Carter’s time in office. He was the first U.S. president to make the protection of human rights a cornerstone of American foreign policy, and during his administration, the Bureau of Human Rights was established within the U.S. Department of State. The news of Carter’s death has sparked widespread reactions. Current U.S. President Joe Biden described Carter as a “man of faith, humility, and principle.” According to Biden, “Carter worked with moral clarity and compassion to eliminate injustices, promote peace, and advance civil and human rights. He supported free and fair elections, built homes for the homeless, and was always committed to advocating for the voiceless.” Former President Donald Trump said, “Although I disagreed with him philosophically and politically, I knew that he truly loved our country and respected its values. He worked hard to make America a better place, and for that, I hold the highest respect for him.” Former President Barack Obama also remarked, “Carter, who was elected president under the shadow of the Watergate scandal, promised the American people that he would always tell the truth—and he did.” Jimmy Carter’s passing marks the end of an era in American politics. As one of the most distinguished figures in recent history, his legacy will be remembered for his unwavering commitment to human rights, peace, and social justice. His influence extends beyond his presidency and continues to inspire leaders and citizens around the world. While his political views were sometimes divisive, Carter’s integrity and dedication to public service earned him admiration across political divides. As the U.S. reflects on his life and contributions, his example of moral clarity and devotion to the greater good serves as a reminder of the power of principled leadership in shaping the course of history. Save my name, email, and website in this browser for the next time I comment. ΔTired of the usual counting-down-the-seconds-to-the-New Year ritual? Provide biodegradable lanterns where you can write down something you want to leave behind in the past year. Release them at midnight to symbolize starting fresh. Here’s a few things you might want to do with friends and family to celebrate the changing of the year Virtual salubong with family from all over the world Host a countdown party over a video call with loved ones working abroad. Include games, karaoke, and a toast of drinks local to your home country (tuba, anyone?) to make them feel like they’re in the same room. Or how about you upgrade your celebration by preparing food and drinks representing the countries where family members live, or celebrating the New Year for an entire day as it strikes in each time zone they’re at? Take extra effort to create a Pinoy food fiesta Don’t order the usual Chinese feast. If it’s a potluck family party, ask everyone to flex their regional delicacies: Cebu lechon, Bicol Express, Ilocos empanada, moron from Leyte, pastil from Cotabato—imagine the feast you’re greeting the new year with! Let go Provide biodegradable lanterns where you can write down something you want to leave behind in the past year. Release them at midnight to symbolize starting fresh. Celebrating by the beach? Write down one thing you want to let go in a banana leaf and set these leaves adrift toward the sea. Or, you can write your resolutions, hopes, and wishes on a lantern or biodegradable balloon and release them into the air to symbolize sending your prayer to the heavens. Have a fiesta-inspired countdown It’s a good way to orient kids about your culture. From Cebu? Host a mini Sinulog festival with music, dance, and decorations to bring the energy of your province to your New Year’s celebration. Use tribal drums! From Aklan? Make the celebration Ati-Atihan inspired. From Leyte? Hala bira like the Pintados. Nothing more Pinoy than a karaoke countdown challenge Starting at 10 p.m., cue songs that would be included in the countdown playlist, capping it off with a banger that’s considered a family theme song. Highest score wins the big prize of the night. Make kindness a tradition Start and end the year by giving back and showing kindness. Organize a family activity on the last day and the first day where you bring donations to those in need, or distribute food packs to those who are living on the streets. Counting your stack of donated items can be your version of an NYE countdown. Create a capsule Encourage family members to write a letter to their future self, or to their loved ones, and seal these in a box to be opened in the future, on another New Year’s Eve many years from now. Include photos, Polaroids, gifts, or objects. Street party with the neighbors Involve the community and create a countdown with local performances, from kids to neighborhood Maritesses. Organize a potluck featuring each household’s specialties. Let everything Glow in the Dark Have you ever had a blacklight party? Now’s the time. Make sure everything glows—outfits, decor, and drinks. Stock on glow sticks, neon paint, and luminescent decorations. Use glow-in-the-dark numbers to count down to the New Year. Stargazing Just want to run away from the noise of it all? Celebrate somewhere quiet, like Tanay or Tagaytay, somewhere quiet and with a high elevation, and with zero light pollution. Bring telescopes, blankets, and hot drinks for a celestial countdown under the stars. Champagne tower Build a champagne (or if you can’t do alcohol—sparkling juice) tower and pour the final bottle as the clock strikes midnight. Let the oldest member of the family take the top glasses for a symbolic toast.Ben Homeyer. South Carolina’s economy is built on its small businesses. Small businesses are owned and run by our friends and neighbors, and they employ many members of our community. They support local charities, sponsor our kids’ sports teams, and make our communities stronger. We need our small businesses, and they need us. That’s why we need to support them on Small Business Saturday. Black Friday may have expanded into a month-long sales event, but Small Business Saturday is still just the Saturday after Thanksgiving. When you shop at chain stores, you’re buying from big corporations. However, when you shop or eat at a local business, there’s a good chance you’re dealing directly with the owner—someone who genuinely cares about making you happy and turning you into a customer who’ll come back throughout the holidays and all year long. Chain stores and chain restaurants are fine, but if you’ve seen one, you’ve seen them all. Small businesses, on the other hand, are different. Their shelves are usually thoughtfully curated and reflect the owner’s unique style. With one-of-a-kind items, limited stock, and a focus on supporting local artisans, these stores provide a personalized shopping experience that larger retailers and online platforms simply can’t match. Locally owned restaurants can offer customers a unique experience that goes beyond just a meal. These independent eateries provide distinctive menus and decor that connect with the heart of the local community. Small Business Saturday began in 2010 as a way to promote local businesses as they recovered from the Great Recession. Since then, it has grown from a simple promotion into a holiday tradition. Last Thanksgiving weekend, people spent an estimated $17 billion at independent shops and restaurants on Small Business Saturday. That’s great, because small businesses are facing an uncertain economic future. Inflation continues to drive up the cost of everything from raw materials to wrapping supplies, and owners are still waiting to see whether Congress will preserve the 20 percent small business tax deduction that’s scheduled to expire in the coming year. Many homeowners and small businesses are still recovering from Hurricane Helene. Without our support, some Main Street shops and restaurants might not survive, and we can’t afford to lose them. Small businesses make our communities strong and help keep our economy healthy. When we support local businesses, 67 cents of every dollar stays in the community. That’s why I believe we need to make it a point this Thanksgiving weekend to shop and dine locally on Small Business Saturday. When we help small businesses, we help our community. Ben Homeyer is the South Carolina director of the National Federation of Independent Business.President-elect Donald Trump said Thursday that former Sen. David Perdue , R-Ga., had agreed to be nominated to be the next U.S. ambassador to China . “As a Fortune 500 CEO, who had a 40-year International business career, and served in the U.S. Senate, David brings valuable expertise to help build our relationship with China,” Trump said on his Truth Social platform , noting that Perdue has lived in Singapore and Hong Kong and spent much of his career working in China and elsewhere in Asia. > Watch NBC Bay Area News 📺 Streaming free 24/7 “He will be instrumental in implementing my strategy to maintain Peace in the region, and a productive working relationship with China’s leaders,” Trump said. Perdue's nomination is subject to Senate confirmation. The bilateral relationship between the U.S. and China, the world’s two largest economies, is often described as the most important in the world. Ties reached their lowest point in decades in recent years, but both President Joe Biden and Chinese President Xi Jinping have been taking steps to improve them despite continuing disputes over trade, technology, human rights and the status of Beijing-claimed Taiwan. Trump, who takes office in January, started a trade war with China during his first term as president and has vowed to impose tariffs of 60% or more on all Chinese goods imported in his next one. Last week, he said he would impose an additional 10% tariff on Chinese goods unless Beijing does more to stop the international flow of precursor chemicals for fentanyl. Perdue, who visited China as part of a congressional delegation in 2018, said in a Fox News commentary written with other senators after the trip that the U.S. needs to “wake up and do a better job competing with China.” “America’s outdated view of China could result in lost opportunities, or even worse, dangerous miscalculations or complacency,” the senators wrote. “We must have a long-term plan to compete and deal with China’s rising economic and geopolitical influence.” Perdue, 74, a former management consultant, was a Republican senator from Georgia from 2015 to 2021. He served on the Foreign Relations and Armed Services committees. He lost to Democrat Jon Ossoff in a runoff after the 2020 general election. In 2022, he ran for governor after Trump recruited him to challenge Republican Gov. Brian Kemp , who refused to help Trump overturn Georgia’s election results in 2020, when the state voted for Biden. Perdue lost to Kemp in the Republican primary by more than 50 percentage points. “David has been a loyal supporter and friend, and I look forward to working with him in his new role!” Trump said Thursday. Before he entered the Senate, Perdue had a long corporate career, including as president and CEO of Reebok and CEO of Dollar General and the North Carolina textile company PillowTex. The current U.S. ambassador to China, Nicholas Burns , told NBC News in October that U.S.-China competition would continue “into the next decade.” “It’s a very challenging relationship,” he said. “But it’s without any question the most consequential relationship that we Americans have with any other country.” Xi told Biden last month that he would work with the Trump administration and that “China’s goal of a stable, healthy and sustainable China-U.S. relationship remains unchanged.” This article first appeared on NBCNews.com . Read more from NBC News here:

Thanksgiving Weekend Sports Guide: Your roadmap to NFL matchups, other games, times, oddsThe long sports-filled Thanksgiving weekend is a time when many Americans enjoy gathering with friends and family for good food, good company and hopefully not too much political conversation. Also on the menu — all the NFL and college sports you can handle. Here's a roadmap to one of the biggest sports weekends of the year, with a look at marquee games over the holiday and how to watch. All times are in EST. All odds are by BetMGM Sportsbook. • NFL: There is a triple-header lined up for pro football fans. Chicago at Detroit, 12:30 p.m., CBS: Rookie quarterback Caleb Williams and the Bears go against the Lions, who are one of the favorites to reach the Super Bowl in February. Lions favored by 10. New York at Dallas, 4:30 p.m., Fox: The Giants and Cowboys are both suffering through miserable seasons and are now using backup quarterbacks for different reasons. But if Dallas can figure out a way to win, it will still be on the fringe of the playoff race. Cowboys favored by 3 1/2. Miami at Green Bay, 8:20 p.m., NBC/Peacock: The Packers stumbled slightly out of the gate but have won six of their past seven games. They'll need a win against Miami to try to keep pace in the NFC North. Packers favored by 3. • College Football: Memphis at No. 18 Tulane, 7:30 p.m., ESPN. If college football is your jam, this is a good warmup for a big weekend. The Tigers try to ruin the Green Wave’s perfect record in the American Athletic Conference. Tulane is favored by 14. Kansas City Chiefs quarterback Patrick Mahomes works in the pocket against the Carolina Panthers during the first half of Sunday's game in Charlotte, N.C. • NFL: A rare Friday showdown features the league-leading Chiefs. Las Vegas at Kansas City, 3 p.m. Prime Video: The Chiefs and quarterback Patrick Mahomes are 12-point favorites over the Raiders. • College Basketball: Some of the top programs meet in holiday tournaments around the country. Battle 4 Atlantis championship, 5:30 p.m., ESPN: One of the premier early season tournaments, the eight-team field includes No. 3 Gonzaga, No. 14 Indiana and No. 24 Arizona. Rady Children's Invitational, 6 p.m., Fox: It's the championship game for a four-team field that includes No. 13 Purdue and No. 23 Mississippi. • College Football: There is a full slate of college games to dig into. Oregon State at No. 11 Boise State, noon, Fox: The Broncos try to stay in the College Football Playoff hunt when they host the Beavers. Boise State favored by 19 1/2. Oklahoma State at No. 23 Colorado, noon, ABC: The Buffaloes and Coach Prime are still in the hunt for the Big 12 championship game when they host the Cowboys. Colorado favored by 16 1/2. Georgia Tech at No. 6 Georgia, 7:30 p.m., ABC: The Bulldogs are on pace for a spot in the CFP but host what could be a tricky game against rival Georgia Tech. Georgia favored by 19 1/2. • NBA. After taking Thanksgiving off, pro basketball returns. Oklahoma City at Los Angeles Lakers, 10 p.m., ESPN: The Thunder look like one of the best teams in the NBA's Western Conference. They'll host Anthony Davis, LeBron James and the Lakers. Los Angeles Lakers forward LeBron James dunks during the first half of a Nov. 23 game against the Denver Nuggets in Los Angeles. • College Football. There are more matchups with playoff implications. Michigan at No. 2 Ohio State, noon, Fox: The Wolverines are struggling one season after winning the national title. They could make their fan base a whole lot happier with an upset of the Buckeyes. Ohio State favored by 21. No. 7 Tennessee at Vanderbilt, noon, ABC: The Volunteers are a fairly big favorite and have dominated this series, but the Commodores have been a tough team this season and already have achieved a monumental upset over Alabama. Tennessee favored by 11. No. 16 South Carolina at No. 12 Clemson, noon, ESPN: The Palmetto State rivals are both hanging on the edge of the CFP playoff race. A win — particularly for Clemson — would go a long way toward clinching its spot in the field. Clemson favored by 2 1/2. No. 3 Texas at No. 20 Texas A&M, 7:30 p.m. ABC: The Aggies host their in-state rival for the first time since 2011 after the Longhorns joined the SEC. Texas favored by 5 1/2. Washington at No. 1 Oregon, 7:30 p.m., NBC: The top-ranked Ducks have been one of the nation’s best teams all season. They’ll face the Huskies, who would love a marquee win in coach Jedd Fisch’s first season. Oregon favored by 19 1/2. • NBA: A star-studded clash is part of the league's lineup. Golden State at Phoenix, 9 p.m., NBA TV: Steph Curry and the Warriors are set to face the Suns' Big Three of Kevin Durant, Devin Booker and Bradley Beal. • NFL: It's Sunday, that says it all. Pittsburgh at Cincinnati, 1 p.m., CBS: Joe Burrow is having a great season for the Bengals, who are struggling in other areas. They need a win to stay in the playoff race, hosting a Steelers team that's 8-3 and won five of their past six. Bengals favored by 3. Arizona at Minnesota, 1 p.m., Fox: The Cardinals are tied for the top of the NFC West while the Vikings are 9-2 and have been one of the biggest surprises of the season with journeyman Sam Darnold under center. Vikings favored by 3 1/2. Philadelphia at Baltimore, 4:25 p.m., CBS: Two of the league's most electric players will be on the field when Saquon Barkley and the Eagles travel to face Lamar Jackson and the Ravens. Ravens favored by 3. San Francisco at Buffalo, 8:20 p.m. NBC/Peacock: The 49ers try to get back to .500 against the Bills, who have won six straight. Bills favored by 7. • NBA. The best teams in the Eastern Conference meet in a statement game. Boston at Cleveland, 6 p.m., NBA TV: The defending champion Celtics travel to face the Cavs, who won their first 15 games to start the season. • Premier League: English soccer fans have a marquee matchup. Manchester City at Liverpool, 11 a.m., USA Network/Telemundo. The two top teams meet with Manchester City trying to shake off recent struggles. • Auto Racing: The F1 season nears its conclusion. F1 Qatar Grand Prix, 11 a.m., ESPN2 – It's the penultimate race of the season. Max Verstappen already has clinched his fourth consecutive season championship. - Seasons coached: 23 - Years active: 1969-91 - Record: 193-148-1 - Winning percentage: .566 - Championships: 4 Chuck Noll's Pittsburgh Steelers were synonymous with success in the 1970s. Behind his defense, known as the Steel Curtain, and offensive stars, including Terry Bradshaw, Franco Harris, and Lynn Swann, Noll led the squad to four Super Bowl victories from 1974 to 1979. Noll's Steelers remain the lone team to win four Super Bowls in six years, though Andy Reid and Kansas City could equal that mark if they win the Lombardi Trophy this season. Noll was elected to the Pro Football Hall of Fame in 1993, two years after retiring. His legacy of coaching success has carried on in Pittsburgh—the club has had only two coaches (Bill Cowher and Mike Tomlin) since Noll retired. - Seasons coached: 21 - Years active: 1984-98, 2001-06 - Record: 200-126-1 - Winning percentage: .613 - Championships: 0 As head coach of Cleveland, Kansas City, Washington, and San Diego, Marty Schottenheimer proved a successful leader during the regular season. Notably, he was named Coach of the Year after turning around his 4-12 Chargers team to a 12-4 record in 2004. His teams, however, struggled during the playoffs. Schottheimer went 5-13 in the postseason, and he never made it past the conference championship round. As such, the Pennsylvania-born skipper is the winningest NFL coach never to win a league championship. - Seasons coached: 33 - Years active: 1921-53 - Record: 226-132-22 - Winning percentage: .631 - Championships: 6 An early stalwart of the NFL, Curly Lambeau spent 29 years helming the Green Bay Packers before wrapping up his coaching career with two-year stints with the Chicago Cardinals and Washington. His Packers won titles across three decades, including the league's first three-peat from 1929-31. Notably, he experienced only one losing season during his first 27 years with Green Bay, cementing his legacy of consistent success. Born in Green Bay, Lambeau co-founded the Packers and played halfback on the team from 1919-29. He was elected to the Hall of Fame as a coach and owner in 1963, two years before his death. You may also like: Countries with the most active NFL players - Seasons coached: 29 - Years active: 1960-88 - Record: 250-162-6 - Winning percentage: .607 - Championships: 2 The first head coach of the Dallas Cowboys, Tom Landry held the position for his entire 29-year tenure as an NFL coach. The Cowboys were especially dominant in the 1970s when they made five Super Bowls and won the big game twice. Landry was known for coaching strong all-around squads and a unit that earned the nickname the "Doomsday Defense." Between 1966 and 1985, Landry and his Cowboys enjoyed 20 straight seasons with a winning record. He was elected to the Hall of Fame in 1990. - Seasons coached: 26 - Years active: 1999-present - Record: 267-145-1 - Winning percentage: .648 - Championships: 3 The only active coach in the top 10, Andy Reid has posted successful runs with both the Philadelphia Eagles and Kansas City. After reaching the Super Bowl once in 14 years with the Eagles, Reid ratcheted things up with K.C., winning three titles since 2019. As back-to-back defending champions, Reid and Co. are looking this season to become the first franchise to three-peat in the Super Bowl era and the third to do so in NFL history after the Packers of 1929-31 and '65-67. Time will tell if Reid and his offensive wizardry can lead Kansas City to that feat. - Seasons coached: 40 - Years active: 1920-29, '33-42, '46-55, '58-67 - Record: 318-148-31 - Winning percentage: .682 - Championships: 6 George Halas was the founder and longtime owner of the Chicago Bears and coached the team across four separate stints. Nicknamed "Papa Bear," he built the ballclub into one of the NFL's premier franchises behind players such as Bronko Nagurski and Sid Luckman. Halas also played for the team, competing as a player-coach in the 1920s. The first coach to study opponents via game film, he was once a baseball player and even made 12 appearances as a member of the New York Yankees in 1919. He was inducted into the Hall of Fame in 1963 as both a coach and owner. - Seasons coached: 33 - Years active: 1963-95 - Record: 328-156-6 - Winning percentage: .677 - Championships: 2 The winningest head coach in NFL history is Don Shula, who first coached the Baltimore Colts (losing Super Bowl III to Joe Namath and the New York Jets) for seven years before leading the Miami Dolphins for 26 seasons. With the Fins, Shula won back-to-back Super Bowls in 1972 and 1973, a run that included a 17-0 season—the only perfect campaign in NFL history. He also coached quarterback great Dan Marino in the 1980s and '90s, but the pair made it to a Super Bowl just once. Shula was inducted into the Hall of Fame in 1997. Story editing by Mike Taylor. Copy editing by Robert Wickwire. Photo selection by Lacy Kerrick. You may also like: The 5 biggest upsets of the 2023-24 NFL regular season Get local news delivered to your inbox!

RICHMOND, Ky. (AP) — Matt Morrissey threw a 67-yard touchdown pass to Marcus Calwise Jr. that ended the scoring midway through the fourth quarter and Eastern Kentucky beat North Alabama 21-15 on Saturday for its fifth straight win. TJ Smith drove North Alabama to the EKU 45-yard line before he threw an interception to Mike Smith Jr. to end the game. Smith threw a 24-yard touchdown pass to Dakota Warfield to give North Alabama a 15-14 lead with 10:37 to play. Morrissey completed 9 of 15 passes for 154 yards and added 60 yards on the ground with a touchdown run. Brayden Latham added 103 yards rushing on 19 carries that included a 2-yard score for Eastern Kentucky (8-4, 6-2 United Athletic Conference). Smith was 23-of-39 passing for 325 yards with a touchdown and two interceptions for North Alabama (3-9, 2-5). Tanaka Scott had 109 yards receiving and a touchdown catch. ___ Get alerts on the latest AP Top 25 poll throughout the season. Sign up here ___ AP college football: https://apnews.com/hub/ap-top-25-college-football-poll and https://apnews.com/hub/college-football

BOZEMAN, Mont. (AP) — Adam Jones ran for 197 yards and two touchdowns and Montana State ran over Montana 34-11 on Saturday to reclaim the Brawl of the Wild trophy. The Bobcats (12-0, 8-0 Big Sky Conference) wrapped up the 123rd meeting in this rivalry with 420 yards, 326 on the ground. Montana State capped its first unbeaten season and can match the school record for consecutive wins with a playoff win in two weeks. The Bobcats, ranked second in the FCS coaches poll, should be the top seed in the playoffs after top-ranked North Dakota State lost its finale to fifth-ranked South Dakota. Montana (8-4, 5-3), ranked 10th, is expected to add to its record 27 FCS playoff appearances but will not have a first-round bye in the 24-team bracket. Montana State quarterback Tommy Mellott was 6-of-12 passing for 94 yards with a touchdown in poor conditions and added 50 yards and a touchdown on the ground. He has helped the Bobcats score at least 30 points in every game this season Mellott had a 5-yard touchdown run on MSU's first possession and Mellott found Jones for a 35-yard touchdown early in the second quarter for a 14-3 lead. Myles Sansted had two field goals in the final two minutes, including a 49-yarder as time expired for a 20-3 halftime lead. Jones dominated the second half and scored two short touchdowns. Eli Gillman scored on a 1-yard run for Montana's touchdown between the Jones' touchdowns. The Grizzlies had just 234 yards and went 2 of 12 on third down. AP college football: https://apnews.com/hub/ap-top-25-college-football-poll and https://apnews.com/hub/college-football . Sign up for the AP’s college football newsletter: https://apnews.com/cfbtop25I t is easy to forget how many of the rights and liberties that our modern society holds dear were illegal not so long ago. For a young person reaching adulthood today, the idea that the state could wield its power to prohibit them from marrying the person they love, dissolving a marriage when love is absent, or choosing when and whether to have children would be viewed as not just alien but irrational. Yet there are people alive today, my generation among them, who faced each and every one of these restrictions on rights that most would now consider fundamental. It is no coincidence that, in each of these areas, the legislative vehicle for reforming the law was a private member’s bill introduced by a backbench MP. Indeed, it is hard to think of a great social reform that cannot trace its origins to these longshot bids to focus parliament’s attention on an urgent social problem of the day. And while most PMBs do not succeed, those that do have almost always shaped our society for the better.College Football Playoff picks, predictions against the spread for 2024 CFP quarterfinal games | Sporting News

In 2021, China lowered the age of criminal responsibility to 12 from 14 for certain crimes. Photo: ODT files The male suspects surnamed Zhang and Li were sentenced to life and 12 years in jail, respectively, on Monday for intentional homicide by a court in the city of Handan in the province of Hebei, CCTV said, but no motive was given. The court found the methods of the killing "were particularly cruel, and the circumstances were particularly heinous". A third suspect surnamed Ma escaped with a sentence of "special correctional education", in line with the law, the broadcaster said. All three were aged 13 at the time of the murder. They were detained the day after the body of the 13-year-old victim, surnamed Wang, was found on March 10, buried in a shallow pit in an abandoned greenhouse on the city's outskirts, state media said. The court said Zhang bore principal responsibility for killing Wang with a shovel and initially devised the murder plan, while Li, his main accomplice, joined in the killing and subsequent burial. Ma followed the pair to the site of the murder and witnessed the killing, but did not participate. In 2021, China lowered the age of criminal responsibility to 12 from 14 for certain crimes, but kept minors exempt from the death penalty. Suspects aged 12 to 14 may face criminal responsibility for serious crimes such as intentional homicide if the top prosecutor approves the charges. At the time of the crime, state media said all four were the offspring of rural migrant workers who spend most of the year working in large cities, leaving grandparents and other relatives to care for their children. Census data from 2020 shows such "left behind" children, as they are called, number nearly 67 million. Academic studies show they are at higher risk of suffering mental health issues, becoming victims of bullying and criminal behaviour. At the time, some social media commenters and lawyers had demanded the death penalty, saying minors had received inadequate punishment for serious crimes in recent years.Townsville Don't miss out on the headlines from Townsville. Followed categories will be added to My News. Driven by her own experiences with isolation and a passion for creating connections, Jade Nelson founded The Women’s Society, an initiative empowering women through community and support. Since its launch in February, 2022, The Women’s Society has 3400 members and has hosted 100 events as well as raised thousands of dollars for local causes. And now The Women’s Society has made the official transition into a not-for-profit organisation, reinforcing its mission to provide a safe and empowering community for women across North Queensland. The Women’s Society began from a deeply personal place for Jade. “I’ve faced my own struggles with mental health and often felt isolated and disconnected. I found myself longing for someone I could truly be myself around - someone I could talk to without judgment or pretence. It led me to wonder: How many other women feel the same way, craving a sense of connection and understanding?” So, Jade started to research and quickly discovered how widespread this issue really is. About one in six Australian women experience depression, and in 2024, only 48 per cent of women sought support when struggling with mental health. The Women's Society founder Jade Nelson. Since its launch in February, 2022, The Women’s Society has 3400 members and has hosted 100 events as well as raised thousands of dollars for local causes Picture: Shae Beplate. According to the Liptember Foundation’s 2024 Mental Health Research, 71% of women strongly agree that there’s still a surface-level acceptance of mental health issues, with a lot of stigma around speaking up and asking for help. “These numbers were staggering, and they validated what I was feeling: countless women were also facing isolation, struggling alone, and feeling misunderstood.” Moved by a desire for authentic connections, she started with a simple facebook group, inviting women in Townsville for coffee. What emerged was a safe haven where women, previously strangers, could gather, share stories, and uplift one another. This simple act soon blossomed into a series of regular meetups, touching hundreds of lives. “It was incredible to see how a single conversation or shared experience could lift someone’s spirits.” Building Bridges and Creating Impact Since founding The Women’s Society, Jade said she had come to see just how transformative genuine connection could be. “For some, it’s a fun activity to unwind and relax; for others, it’s an opportunity to be active, get those dopamine levels up, and discover what Townsville has to offer,” Jade said. “Whatever form it takes, these experiences give women a chance to feel valued, build confidence, and foster a sense of belonging.” As an event co-ordinator, Jade had spent years creating memorable moments for her clients, and wanted to bring that same joy and sense of connection to women in the community. “At The Women’s Society, we’re committed to creating a safe, welcoming space where women can find those connections—where even the simplest interaction can brighten someone’s day or, in some cases, change the course of their future.” Jade said transitioning into a non-profit felt like the natural next step. “It allows us to focus wholeheartedly on our mission, ensuring that our programs and events remain accessible to all women, regardless of financial or personal circumstances. “As a non-profit, we can expand our reach, partner with other organisations, and access funding to help us make a lasting, positive impact on the mental health and well- being of women across Townsville. Together, we can build a community that’s supportive, uplifting, and transformative for everyone involved.” Creating Inclusive Spaces A significant aspect of The Women’s Society is its emphasis on inclusivity and accessibility. With a range of creative and active living programs, the society encourages women to express themselves, stay active, and forge connections. “We’ve partnered with Townsville Hike and Explore to host free monthly women-only hikes and adventures, which range from beginner to intermediate levels,” Jade said. “ These free guided hikes provide an opportunity for women to explore the beauty of Townsville, get outdoors, and be active. “Many of our participants come alone, excited to meet new people and engage in meaningful, open conversations along the way. These outings offer a welcoming space for women to connect and enjoy the positive effects of nature and movement on mental health. In addition to outdoor adventures, The Women’s Society hosts its Creative Connect meet-ups, which are designed to help women have fun, de-stress, and express themselves artistically. “We partner with local businesses to offer interactive sessions such as pottery, painting, mark-making, and even gallery hunts. These events provide a safe, supportive space where women can channel their inner artist, learn new skills, and enjoy a moment of mindfulness. With a mix of free and low-cost options, our creative programs are accessible to everyone, encouraging self-expression and fostering a sense of community and belonging.” A significant aspect of The Women’s Society is its emphasis on inclusivity and accessibility. Overcoming Challenges and Looking Forward The transition to a non-profit hasn’t been without its challenges. Navigating financial, legal, and administrative hurdles required extensive research and dedication. Yet, the drive to provide meaningful change for women motivated Jade to overcome these obstacles. “While we now have a strong foundation, we need funding to expand our impact and reach,” she said. “To grow, The Women’s Society requires partnerships and sponsorships from local business leaders and support through grants. “With the right funding, we could create a permanent community hub, host more inclusive events, expand our programs, and offer vital resources to combat isolation and loneliness. “Social connection can lead to longer life, better health, and wellbeing.” Jade said people who supported The Women’s Society would be investing in an organisation that was making real change from the source and without the stigma. “Government funding and business partnerships are crucial to scaling our services. With funding, we can build a dedicated team, establish welcoming facilities, and create community events that uplift and empower women across North Queensland. I invite the government and potential partners to join us in this journey of impact.” Jade’s plan for the next five years is bold but achievable. “I envision The Women’s Society expanding its reach across North Queensland, offering more diverse programs and partnerships to make a greater impact. We plan to secure sustainable funding, broaden our support services, and establish a physical space to act as a hub for our organisation.” In addition to outdoor adventures, The Women’s Society hosts its Creative Connect meet-ups, which are designed to help women have fun, de-stress, and express themselves artistically Championing the Cause At the heart of The Women’s Society’s events is the annual Christmas Charity Event - a celebration of generosity and community spirit. This year’s function is scheduled for December 20 at Flinders Lane between 6.30pm and 11.30pm. The function also marks the official transition of The Women’s Society into a non-profit, complete with the launch of a new website and programs, ushering in a new era for the organisation. The event, sponsored by Gallivanter Travel Townsville, XRX Business Centre and Townsville City Council, is open to members and non-members and will feature a deluxe grazing table, a welcome drink, a charity raffle, live entertainment and special guests. The Christmas charity function will include a Donation Tree initiative, inspired by the success of last year’s drive. As part of the initiative, guests are encouraged to bring useful items, such as toiletries and non-perishable food, to support local women and families in need during the holiday season. All proceeds from ticket sales and donations will go directly to Domestic Violence North Queensland. For more information about The Women’s Society, to buy tickets, or inquire about sponsorships and raffle prize donations, visit facebook.com/thewomenssocietytownsville Originally published as The Women’s Society becomes a non-profit More related stories Townsville Big move for Little Pegs Cafe It been a time of change for Little Pegs Café with a new location, fostering new customers and a new coffee machine but the quality service and perfect coffee has remained the same. Read more Townsville Singing star Toni Childs to perform in the North Legendary singer-songwriter Toni Childs is set to enchant audiences in North Queensland with her upcoming concerts with a focus on celebrating pollinators. Read more

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Thanksgiving Weekend Sports Guide: Your roadmap to NFL matchups, other games, times, oddsSean 'Diddy' Combs denied bail a third time as he awaits sex trafficking trialNone

WASHINGTON (AP) — The Biden administration has imposed sanctions on the founder of Georgia’s ruling political party, which has steered the country away from a pro-Western stance and towards Russia, U.S. officials said Friday. The State and Treasury departments said they hit Georgian Dream party founder and honorary chairman Bidzina Ivanishvili with penalties “for undermining the democratic and Euro-Atlantic future of Georgia for the benefit of the Russian Federation,” according to a statement. The designation of Ivanishvili is the latest in a series of sanctions the U.S. has slapped on Georgian politicians, lawmakers and others this year. Those sanctions include freezes on assets and properties those targeted may have in U.S. jurisdictions or that might enter U.S. jurisdictions as well as travel bans on the targets and members of their families. “We strongly condemn Georgian Dream’s actions under Ivanishvili’s leadership, including its ongoing and violent repression of Georgian citizens, protestors, members of the media, human rights activists, and opposition figures,” the State Department said in a statement. “The United States is committed to promoting accountability for those undermining democracy and human rights in Georgia.” RELATED COVERAGE Ex-soccer player Kavelashvili becomes Georgia’s president in a blow to country’s EU aspirations Georgia’s governing party picks former soccer player as presidential candidate Ex-soccer player Kavelashvili becomes Georgia’s president in a blow to country’s EU aspirations Ivanishvili is a shadowy billionaire who made his fortune in Russia and served briefly as Georgia’s prime minister. In 2012, he founded Georgian Dream, Georgia’s longtime ruling party. Critics have accused Georgian Dream of becoming increasingly authoritarian and tilted toward Moscow. The party recently pushed through laws similar to those used by the Kremlin to crack down on freedom of speech and LGBTQ+ rights, prompting the European Union to suspend Georgia’s membership application process indefinitely. In October, Georgian Dream won another term in a divisive parliamentary election that has led to more mass protests. Last month, the country’s prime minister, Irakli Kobakhidze , announced a four-year suspension of talks on Georgia’s bid to join the European Union, fueling further public outrage.

Ceylinco Life takes green branch model to NittambuwaKNOXVILLE, Tenn. (AP) — Tennessee running back Dylan Sampson is heading to the NFL draft after leading the Southeastern Conference in rushing and setting a handful of school records. The SEC Offensive Player of the Year announced on social media his intention Friday to leave after his junior season. He helped the seventh-ranked Vols go 10-3 with a first-round loss in the College Football Playoff where Sampson was limited by an injured hamstring. Sampson thanked his family, Tennessee coaches and fans, saying he learned so much and had the chance to be part of something special. Tennessee went 3-7 in 2020, and he leaves with the Vols having won 30 games over his three seasons. “I poured my heart and soul into this program and this community,” Sampson wrote. “With that being said, I will be declaring for the 2025 NFL Draft.” Sampson set a school record running for 1,491 yards. He also set a program record with a league-best 22 rushing touchdowns, breaking a mark that had stood for 95 years. He was part of coach Josh Heupel's first full signing class in December 2021 out of Baton Rouge, Louisiana. He also set school records for total touchdowns scored (22), points scored (132) and consecutive games with a rushing touchdown (11). He led the SEC in nine different categories, including rushing attempts (258), rushing yards, rushing touchdowns, 100-yard rushing games with 10, averaging 114.7 yards rushing per game, points scored, points per game (10.2), all-purpose yards (1,638) and all-purpose yards per game (126.0). He finished this season tied for fifth all-time in the SEC ranks for rushing TDs in a single season with Leonard Fournette of LSU. Get poll alerts and updates on the AP Top 25 throughout the season. Sign up here . AP college football: https://apnews.com/hub/ap-top-25-college-football-poll and https://apnews.com/hub/college-football