‘SELFISH’ Executive Secretary Lucas Bersamin says former President Rodrigo Duterte should respect the 1987 Constitution after the latter called on the military to intervene amid the rift between his daughter, Vice President Sara Duterte, and President Marcos. On Tuesday, groups started gathering at Edsa Shrine on Ortigas Avenue in Pasig City to show support for Vice President Duterte who, in an online address to supporters early Saturday, admitted that she had contracted someone to kill Marcos. —Photos by the House of Representatives/Grig C. Montegrande MANILA, Philippines — Malacañang on Tuesday vowed to “act resolutely” against unlawful attempts and challenges to the government as it slammed former President Rodrigo Duterte for his “selfish and brazen” motives in calling on the military to correct the country’s “fractured governance.” Executive Secretary Lucas Bersamin did not mince words in calling out the 79-year-old Duterte for “insulting” the military by asking them to “betray their oath.” In a statement, Bersamin slammed the former President for “calling for a sitting President to be overthrown” so that his daughter, Vice President Sara Duterte, the constitutional successor of President Marcos, can take over the country. READ: AFP distances itself from Marcos-Duterte spat “He will go to great and evil lengths, such as insulting our professional armed forces by asking them to betray their oath, for his plan to succeed,” said Bersamin, a former Chief Justice. He said Duterte “should respect the 1987 Constitution, not disobey it.” READ: Duterte’s call for military to act may only benefit VP Sara – solon “[Duterte] should desist from being as irresponsible as he has become,” he said, adding that it was shocking for the former President to make a “brazen call” for the military to intervene. While claiming that he is not into “agitating” for a coup d’etat, Duterte told the military to rethink how, as an institution, its members would act on their mandate as protector of the country’s Constitution and the people. “Hanggang kailan ninyo susuportahan ang durugistang presidente (Until when are you going to support a President who’s taking drugs)?” Duterte asked as he faced reporters in Davao City late Monday night with Davao del Norte Rep. Pantaleon Alvarez and lawyer Martin Delgra, his spokesperson. Duterte held the press conference as the rift between his daughter and the first family deepened, pounding on the same issues and accusations that he let off back in January when the former President and his supporters launched the “Hakbang ng Maisug” movement to rival that of the Bagong Pilipinas movement of President Marcos. Duterte, during the Maisug rally in Davao early this year, called President Marcos “bangag” (stoned). A few days later, Marcos said his predecessor’s remarks might have been due to his prolonged use of fentanyl, an opioid used to treat severe pain from major trauma, surgery, or cancer. Marcos’ political detractors have been using his alleged use of illegal drugs to criticize his capacity to lead the country and to present Sara Duterte as a more viable option. In late 2021 before the campaign for the 2022 elections, Marcos denied allegations of illegal drug use by presenting results of a drug test from St. Luke’s Medical Center in Taguig City. The results showed that he tested negative for cocaine use. Marcos and Sara Duterte eventually won under the so-called UniTeam but this political partnership eventually collapsed in July when the latter resigned from the Cabinet as secretary of the Department of Education. Justice Undersecretary Jesse Andres on Tuesday said Rodrigo Duterte’s call for military action is “bordering on sedition and is legally actionable.” “I do not know where the [former] President is getting his notion, we have a strong and functioning republic. Civil governance is for civilians, and the military has no role whatsoever. For him to invite the military to have a part in seeking remedy is bordering on sedition and is legally actionable,” Andres said in an ambush interview. The Department of Justice official said Duterte’s statements would also be investigated alongside other similar incidents, including “people encouraging some form of demonstration.” “We don’t know whether this is coming from the efforts of the former President or elsewhere, but again, we will need to examine every angle,” Andres said. “The threat issued by the Vice President [against President Marcos] is something that should also be taken into consideration, whether it is really part of a larger plan for destabilization.” Bersamin assured the public that the Marcos administration “will not shirk from its sworn duty to govern and manage the affairs of the Filipino nation according to the Constitution and the rule of law.” “It will defend its legacy before the Filipino people only by lawful means. The state will act resolutely to go against all unlawful attempts and challenges,” he said. He stressed that a violent power grab through murder, anarchy and revolution to install a new president “will never be acceptable.” “You should wait for the right time, and follow the right process,” Bersamin said. During his press conference, Duterte, when asked whether he was calling for a military junta or even a coup d’etat, said: “... President ako, nakita ko ang (I was a former President, I know the) situation, there’s a breakage and fracture (in the governance of our country) and it’s only the military who can correct it.” “Not junta, sinabi ko (I say). Ibig ko bang sabihin ang mililtary mag... (Am I saying the military should) .... ? It’s an option for the military or they can just sit there or doon sa bukid maglinis ng baril, sabihin lang nila ayaw na namin ’yung laro ninyo, out kami diyan (or in the mountains, cleaning their guns, they can say, we don’t like your game, we’re opting out of it),” Duterte said. “How the military will do it, it’s up to them,” he added. “Hindi iyan kudeta, hindi (That’s not a call to launch a coup).” Duterte said he was arranging to talk with the military “in a free-wheeling discussion” so they could reflect on the idea of being the “protector of the Constitution, what it means to them.” He said he was giving premium to engaging junior officers, from those with the rank of colonel down to the lowest-ranked soldier. “If it is for the interest of the country, why would we not [do it],” he said. But Col. Francel Margareth Padilla, Armed Forces of the Philippines spokesperson, said the military remains to be a nonpartisan organization whose loyalty is to the flag and the Constitution. “At this point there is no need for loyalty checks, our chief of staff has already stated that he trusts that each soldier will perform its mandate accordingly and remain professional,” Padilla said in a briefing at Camp Aguinaldo on Tuesday. She echoed AFP chief of staff Gen. Romeo Brawner Jr.’s statement that the military would remain “united and professional” in the face of “all [the] noise that is going on,” referring to the growing rift between President Marcos and Vice President Duterte. “With all of these things, we respectfully request that we are shunned away from political issues,” she said. She called on the military not to “lose focus on the bigger challenge that we are facing ahead.” “Our loyalty is to the flag and to the Constitution and we adhere to the chain of command,” she said. In the same briefing, Rear Adm. Roy Vincent Trinidad, the Philippine Navy spokesperson for the West Philippine Sea, urged Filipinos to remain united in facing the threats the country is facing, particularly the West Philippine Sea issue. “Your AFP takes pride in being military professionals. We take pride in performing our mandate without fanfare, over sea, over land and over the air,” Trinidad said. “This has been the trademark of the Armed Forces recently and we intend to continue that, upholding the flag, being loyal to the duly constituted civil authorities and ensuring the chain of command is intact and secured,” he added. In a post on X on Tuesday, Mr. Marcos’ former presidential security group commander Ramon “Demy” Zagala, who now heads the AFP community relations service, also said the military would remain loyal to the Constitution. Subscribe to our daily newsletter By providing an email address. I agree to the Terms of Use and acknowledge that I have read the Privacy Policy . “Our soldiers will continue to be loyal to our chain of command and to the Constitution which we swore to protect at all times. The AFP shall remain a nonpartisan organization. We in the AFP will heed only to our mandate, and our loyalty remains to the flag alone,” he said. —with reports from Jane Bautista, Nestor Corrales, Melvin Gascon, and Joselle R. Badilla
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Our community members are treated to special offers, promotions and adverts from us and our partners. You can check out at any time. More info "Disaster" struck for a group of 16 Scots pensioners when they were stranded in the snow during Storm Bert before they were "unexpectedly" rescued by selfless strangers. On Saturday, November 23, the elderly Edinburgh women - between the ages of 50 and 80 - were en route to Pitlochry to celebrate one of their 70th birthdays when the inclement weather derailed their plans. The friends boarded a coach from St Andrew’s Square, but traffic and poor road conditions meant it took over two hours just to travel 3.5 miles to Queensferry Road. However, due to the snow , the bus driver informed passengers that the coach was only able to travel as far as Perth. The women decided to disembark but found themselves at the bottom of the steep Corstorphine Hill - with three of their group limited in mobility. Margo Blyth, one of the women, said that what might have been a “disaster” ended up being “an unexpectedly wonderful day thanks to the kindness of strangers.” She told Edinburgh Live that she and her friends planned to walk nearly a mile uphill to the Leonardo Hotel for refuge. However, some of the women who used walking sticks encountered difficulty. Margo said: “Some of our group started to panic a wee bit. One of ours fell in the snow .” Residents began to take notice and selflessly intervened after seeing the women stranded on the side of the street in heavy snow. A man named Michael who was driving with his wife and son pulled over. The ladies were astounded when he offered to shuttle them up the hill to the Leonardo Hotel. Michael’s wife even waited on the pavement with the women as Michael drove car-fulls of the women to safety. Another local named Brian was passing by at the time and returned with his own car to help shuttle the women up the hill. The pensioner’s luck was not yet over, for they were met with even more goodwill upon arriving at the Leonardo Hotel Edinburgh Murrayfield on Clermiston Road. Despite being fully booked, the hotel staff found a room for the 16 friends where they could wait out the weather. They even brought Prosecco for the birthday girl, all free of charge. Margo said : “The hotel was fantastic. They were like a refuge . We had a laugh. There’s never a dull moment with us pensioners.” She also expressed her and her friends’ gratitude to the locals and hotel staff for making their snow day so memorable. Margo continued: “Complete strangers went out of their way to help complete strangers struggling in the snow . It was just us ladies with walking sticks and cases falling about in the snow up the hill. It was so nice. All of us were astounded by it.” She took to social media praising the hotel for going “above and beyond,” adding: “Despite our unplanned arrival , they made sure we had everything we needed and helped us celebrate my friend’s milestone birthday in style. "A special shout out to Bryony and John Macdonald who truly pulled out all the stops to make it a day to remember ." Leonardo Hotel staff responded to the post saying: “We are so glad to have been able to step in to help your special day !” Get the latest news sent straight to your messages by joining our WhatsApp community today. You'll receive daily updates on breaking news as well as the top headlines across Scotland. No one will be able to see who is signed up and no one can send messages except the Daily Record team. All you have to do is click here if you're on mobile , select 'Join Community' and you're in! If you're on a desktop, simply scan the QR code above with your phone and click 'Join Community'. We also treat our community members to special offers, promotions, and adverts from us and our partners. If you don’t like our community, you can check out any time you like. To leave our community click on the name at the top of your screen and choose 'exit group'. If you’re curious, you can read our Privacy Notice. Don't miss the latest news from around Scotland and beyond - Sign up to our daily newsletter here.
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By SAMY MAGDY CAIRO — Famine is spreading in Sudan due to a war between the military and a notorious paramilitary group that has devastated the country and created the world’s largest displacement crisis, a global hunger monitoring group said Tuesday. The Integrated Food Security Phase Classification, or IPC, said it detected famine in five areas, including in Sudan’s largest displacement camp, Zamzam , in North Darfur province, where famine was found for the first time in August. The report said the war has triggered unprecedented mass displacement and a collapsing economy. It said hostilities can result in farmers abandoning their crops, looting and stock destruction. FILE – People gather to collect water in Khartoum, Sudan, May 28, 2023. (AP Photo/Marwan Ali, File) FILE – Sudanese Khadiga Omer adam sits by her sick child in an MSF-run clinic in the Aboutengue displacement site near Acre, Chad, Friday, Oct 4. 2024. (AP Photo/Sam Mednick, File) FILE – Sudanese refugees arrive in Acre, Chad, Sunday, Oct 6. 2024. (AP Photo/Sam Mednick, File) File – A man walks by a house hit in recent fighting in Khartoum, Sudan, an area torn by fighting between the military and the notorious paramilitary Rapid Support Forces, April 25, 2023. (AP Photo/Marwan Ali, File) FILE – Residents displaced from a surge of violent attacks squat on blankets and in hastily made tents in the village of Masteri in west Darfur, Sudan, on July 30, 2020. (Mustafa Younes via AP, File) FILE – A World Food Programme (WFP) truck backs up to load food items from a recently landed UN helicopter, in Yida camp, South Sudan, Sept. 14, 2012. (AP Photo/Mackenzie Knowles-Coursin) FILE – Sudanese refugee girls carry water supplies near a polling station in the refugee camp of Zamzam, on the outskirts of El Fasher, Darfur, Sudan, on April 13, 2010. (AP Photo/Nasser Nasser, File) FILE -People line up in front of a bakery during a cease-fire in Khartoum, Sudan, May 27, 2023. (AP Photo/Marwan Ali, File) This grab from video shows smoke rising over Khartoum, Sudan on Thursday Sept. 26, 2024, after Sudan’s military started an operation to take areas of the capital from its rival, the paramilitary Rapid Support Forces. (AP Photo/Rashed Ahmed) File – A man walks by a house hit in recent fighting in Khartoum, Sudan, an area torn by fighting between the military and the notorious paramilitary Rapid Support Forces, April 25, 2023. (AP Photo/Marwan Ali, File) FILE – People gather to collect water in Khartoum, Sudan, May 28, 2023. (AP Photo/Marwan Ali, File) FILE – Sudanese refugees displaced by the conflict in Sudan gather to receive food staples from aid agencies at the Metche Camp in eastern Chad Tuesday, March 5, 2024. (AP Photo/Jsarh Ngarndey Ulrish, File) Women who fled war in Sudan rest in a refugee camp in Adre, Chad, Saturday, Oct. 5, 2024. (AP Photo/Sam Mednick) A woman who fled war in Sudan and requested anonymity because she feared retribution after reporting sexual exploitation, holds her baby in a refugee camp in Adre, Chad, Saturday, Oct. 5, 2024. (AP Photo/Sam Mednick) People cross into Chad from Sudan in Adre, Chad, Sunday, Oct. 6, 2024. (AP Photo/Sam Mednick) A woman who fled war in Sudan digs in a refugee camp in Adre, Chad, Thursday, Oct. 3, 2024. (AP Photo/Sam Mednick) Patients are treated in an MSF-run clinic in the Aboutengue displacement site near Acre, Chad, Friday, Oct 4. 2024. (AP Photo/Sam Mednick) Halima Habdullha holds her 7-month-old severely malnourished daughter Kaltum Abakar in an MSF-run clinic in the Aboutengue displacement site near Acre, Chad, Friday, Oct 4. 2024. (AP Photo/Sam Mednick) Ousmane Taher and his family cross from Sudan into Chad near Acre Sunday, Oct 6. 2024. (AP Photo/Sam Mednick) Sudanese refugees arrive in Acre, Chad, Sunday, Oct 6. 2024. (AP Photo/Sam Mednick) FILE – People gather to collect water in Khartoum, Sudan, May 28, 2023. (AP Photo/Marwan Ali, File) Along with the Zamzam camp, which has more than 400,000 people, famine was also detected in two other camps for displaced people, Abu Shouk and al-Salam in North Darfur, and the Western Nuba Mountains, the IPC report said. Five other areas in North Darfur are projected “with reasonable evidence” to experience famine in the next six months, including el-Fasher, the provincial capital of North Darfur, it said. Seventeen areas in the Nuba Mountains and the northern and southern areas of Darfur are at risk of famine, it added. The report also said some areas in the capital, Khartoum, and the east-central province of Gezira “may be experiencing” famine-like conditions. It said experts were unable to confirm whether famine threshold has been surpassed due to lack of data. “It is not merely a lack of food but a profound breakdown of health, livelihoods and social structures, leaving entire communities in a state of desperation,” it said. There is widespread hunger, with food in markets scarce and prices high. Aid groups say they struggle to reach the most vulnerable as warring parties limit access, especially in North Darfur province. Ahead of the IPC’s report, Sudan’s government said it had suspended its participation in the global monitoring system, according to a senior United Nations official with knowledge of the move. In a letter dated Dec. 23, Agriculture Minister Abu Baker al-Beshri accused the IPC of “issuing unreliable reports that undermine Sudan’s sovereignty and dignity,” said the U.N. official, who spoke in condition of anonymity to discuss the letter. Sudan’s 20-month war has killed more than than 24,000 people and driven over 14 million people — about 30% of the population — from their homes, according to the United Nations. An estimated 3.2 million Sudanese have crossed into neighboring countries including Chad, Egypt and South Sudan. The war began in April 2023 when tensions between its military and paramilitary Rapid Support Forces exploded into fighting in Khartoum before spreading to other areas. The conflict has been marked by atrocities including ethnically motivated killing and rape, according to the U.N. and rights groups. The International Criminal Court is investigating alleged war crimes and crimes against humanity. Related Articles Dervla Cleary, a senior emergency and rehabilitation officer at the U.N.’s Food and Agriculture Organization, said 638,000 people are experiencing famine. “The situation in Sudan is just awful. It is unacceptable in a world like today,” she said. The IPC report called for a ceasefire, calling it the only way to reduce the risk of famine spreading further.” Sudan is the third country where famine was declared in the past 15 years, along with South Sudan and Somalia. The IPC comprises more than a dozen U.N. agencies, aid groups and governments that use its monitoring as a global reference for analysis of food and nutrition crises. The organization has also warned that large parts of Gaza’s Palestinian population face the threat of famine.is below the turkey on your list of Thanksgiving necessities, so you’ll want to plan accordingly. Whether you’re looking to enhance the festivities through sharing drinks, laughter, and stories or avoid the awkwardness of discussing politics, navigating family dynamics, and explaining your personal life (we’ve all been there), whiskey helps. That’s precisely why having a good, reliable bottle of the brown stuff nearby helps the holiday season go down smoothly. To aid you in your attempts to either survive or thrive this Thanksgiving (or Friendsgiving), we put together a list of to bring along with you. As a bonus, we broke them all up into price segments because even though it the most festive time of the year, . That said, we’ll start with fantastic budget bottles you won’t mind sharing because of the price, leaving you looking like a hero because they’re eagerly enjoyed. Next, we’ll get into the pricier mid-shelf range, a real sweet spot for showing off some high-quality bottles that will impress everyone trying them. Finally, we’ll end with high-end bottles that are worth the cost to prove to your loved ones that you don’t just have the extra cash but also the discerning taste and class to match. Now, without further ado, let’s dive in! Bottles from $10-$30 4. Duncan Taylor 12-Year Blended Scotch Whisky Duncan Taylor’s 12-year blend of malt and grain whiskey from the Speyside, Islay, Highland, and Lowland regions of Scotland makes for an approachable entry point into the brand, which also carries several rare and exorbitantly priced single malt options. The nosing notes open with a floral aspect of lavender honey before a faint bit of smokiness and sweet malt come wafting up to greet the nose. Overall, it has an arrangement of light but clearly well-developed aromas with lemon zest, dried apricots, and toasted multigrain bread notes. Once on the palate, there’s a creaminess that comes and quickly dissipates as the light flavors lay claim to the tongue. Primary among those notes are the bits of dried apricot and lemon zest alone with lavender honey and gentle, well-incorporated peat smoke. The succinct finish welcomes an uptick in the smoky flavor, a touch of salinity and black pepper, plus a final flourish of the citrus notes found at midpalate. For a $30 blended whiskey that delivers on flavor and can open the eyes of your friends and family to a world beyond Johnnie Walker ( ) Duncan Taylor is the right choice. The approachable flavor profile and moderate ABV will allow you to enjoy from the time the hors d’oeuvres are served, right up until the big bird hits the table. 3. Maker’s Mark Bourbon Maker’s Mark features the bourbon world’s most iconic bottle design, the same one they’ve been utilizing since their founding in 1953, and a mash bill that’s been used for just as long. This wheated bourbon is one of the best-selling whiskeys in the entire world, making it a ubiquitous sight on liquor store shelves. On the nose, you’ll find a bit of corn pudding, vanilla extract, and indistinct red berry aromas wafting out of the glass. There’s also a bit of graham cracker sweetness and white pepper. On the palate, Maker’s Mark greets the tongue with a bunch of honeyed graham cracker notes that soon make way for vanilla pod and cornbread. A second sip morphs the vanilla pod into a custard note, complete with caramelized sugar and some red berry compote. The finish of Maker’s Mark features some mellow spice and more red berry compote, as those natural sugars fuse with vanilla notes to quickly dissipate from the palate. Despite its modest proof point, Maker’s Mark has a ton of flavor, meaning you won’t blow out your palate or scare off if you decide to sip this one neat. It’s ubiquitous on liquor store shelves and should be a staple on your bar cart, primarily if you aim to offer Thanksgiving guests a smooth bourbon they can enjoy all night long. 2. Evan Williams Bottled In Bond Bourbon Evan Williams Bottled in Bond is often named as . Aged for at least four years, per the Bottled in Bond regulations, this 100-proof bourbon is almost as readily found around the country as Evan Williams’ flagship “black label” expression. The nosing notes open with honey, lemon zest, and a distinct peanut note on this bourbon. From there, the periphery aromas are faint — a touch of brown butter, apricots, and cumin, but otherwise nondescript. In the mouth, those initial three notes make the most substantial impression, along with a piquant texture that slightly prickles the tongue and adds a bit of pop to the citrus flavors in the liquid. On the finish, you’ll find some black pepper spice and youthful oak that curtail the peanut and lemon zest flavors. The finish is short-to-medium, giving just enough room to make a satisfying impression on the palate before encouraging repeat sips. Evan Williams’ Bottled in Bond Expression is a masterclass in delivering a high-quality, no-frills bourbon. At 100-proof, it can stand tall in cocktails, bringing an abundance of flavor to classics , but it has just enough depth to perform well on its own—making for a delicious, cost-friendly sipper. 1. Wild Turkey 101 Kentucky Straight Bourbon Wild Turkey 101 Bourbon is not only the most classic expression in the brand’s lineup, . Wild Turkey’s signature 101-proof designation was first formulated in the 1940s by Austin, Nichols & Co. executive Thomas McCarthy, and it’s been a benchmark for high-quality, budget-friendly bourbon ever since. The nose on this whiskey encapsulates what Wild Turkey is all about. There’s a lovely dusting of baking spices like nutmeg, cinnamon, and clove resting atop stone fruits like stewed red apples, bruised peaches, and a faint dose of caramel and oak. On the palate, Wild Turkey 101 Bourbon offers a familiar range of flavors, from apple chips, cinnamon bark, and oak to vanilla extract, nutmeg, and clove. The mouthfeel is intriguing, maintaining enough grip on the palate to heighten the impact of the various baking spices but enough give for the fruit-forward flavors to strut their stuff. The finish is where black pepper flares up, along with a more forceful impression of the oak and clove notes. It’s a short-to-medium finish that pairs well with the flavor profile, giving the impression that this blend is perfectly proofed. Wild Turkey 101 might conjure memories of crazy college nights for some people, but serious connoisseurs know that even with its rowdy reputation, this is one of the best-kept secrets in bourbon. With a robust, spice-heavy profile, Wild Turkey 101 is bold enough to while offering the depth of flavor that makes it great to savor at length in the evening’s quieter moments, too. Bottles from $30-$60 4. Bushmills Single Malt 12-Year Irish Whiskey Bushmills 12, made from 100% Irish malted barley, is part of the well-known brand’s core range. Alongside Jameson and Redbreast, Bushmills is perhaps the most widely known Irish whiskey brand, and that’s due to their 237-year legacy of producing high-quality liquid. For this expression, they marry ex-bourbon and ex-Oloroso casks together, then finish them in ex-Marsala casks for 6-9 months. The nose opens with dilute honey and bright apple notes with a lovely infusion of faint nutmeg, pears, and vanilla beans, giving this whiskey a distinctly autumnal vibe from the outset. Once the liquid crosses your lips and hits your palate, those lovely aromas from the nose spring to life as full-figured flavors on your tongue. Apple chips dipped in honey come to mind at the tip of the tongue before the graininess of Cheerios curtails the sweetness and allows you to appreciate the creamy texture as it barrels toward the finish. The finish is short to medium in length and introduces a bit more baking spice, caramel, and dried apple flavors. Bushmills 12 is a beautiful display of balance when using finishing casks, as each of the barrels selected contributes a little bit of oomph to the overall flavor profile. Caramel and faint coconut from the bourbon casks, rich apple notes from the Oloroso, and a slight nuttiness offer a more full-bodied texture with the Marsala casks, making this one ideal for holiday enjoyment. 3. Nikka Whisky From The Barrel Nikka Whisky From The Barrel features a blend of whiskies from Japan and Scotch, mingling single malt and single grain whiskies for this singular release. Offered “overproof” at 51.4% ABV, this stout bottle packs quite a punch. Also, for clarity’s sake, while this whisky was produced in Japan and contained Japanese whisky, it cannot legally be called a Japanese whisky as of 2021, thanks to new regulations and its inclusion of Scotch whiskey in the blend. Orange marmalade and dark berries (think blueberries and blackberries) inform the nose right away that this is going to be a rich, full-bodied whisky experience. There’s also some strong oak with a faint leather backbone to go with an elusive level of smoke that grows in prominence once you initially detect it. On the palate, those jammy berry notes come to the fore along with some stern oak, a stronger presence of smoke, and further accenting notes of roasted hazelnuts, toasted multigrain bread, and caramelized sugar. At this hefty proof, it definitely sits on your palate with some density, making it a treat to chew and enjoy at length. The finish is lingering and strips away some of the sweeter, fruit-forward notes in favor of the slight nuttiness and oak influences. Toffee is there, but white pepper, hazelnuts, and tobacco leaf flavors close things out. While American palates are more accustomed to the bold flavors of bourbon and rye whiskies, this nifty blend of Japanese whisky and Scotch offers a range of rich flavors capable of not only dispelling that myth but also standing up to the assortment of flavors found in your typical Thanksgiving meal. Even better, it can definitely enhance protein dishes like baked ham and the main event — the turkey. 2. Glenglassaugh Sandend Inspired by the crescent beach of Sandend Bay, home of Glenglassaugh, this expression of single malt Scotch utilizes bourbon, sherry, and manzanilla casks to create a floral and fruity flavor profile. Also of note is that this was voted for 2023. The nose opens with an explosion of tropical fruit and vanilla ice cream as chunks of pineapple greet bright red cherries as some slight salinity and crème brûlée notes fill the air above the glass. The flavor wheel starts spinning with more of those lively fruit notes from pineapple chunks to bright red cherries and blood orange before the crème brûlée’s caramelized sugar and vanilla custard flavors have their say. There’s some salted caramel to be found as well, and the texture is very supple, gently coating the palate while remaining spry enough to bounce around from corner to corner of the mouth. The finish is appropriately medium-length with more fruit and crème brûlée undulating against the cheeks while white pepper and a touch of allspice close out each sip with a baking spice flourish. What makes Glenglassaugh’s Sandend expression so ideal for enjoyment during Thanksgiving is that it brings forth a ton of sweet, fruity notes that seem tailor-made for the spice profile and dishes served during the holiday. Try serving this one up alongside cranberry sauce, for example, to exploit all of that fruity flavor, or use it as a counter to savory dishes or sweet potatoes. 1. Russell’s Reserve 10-Year Bourbon Russell’s Reserve’s 10-Year Bourbon was initially released in 2001 as an age-stated, 101-proof expression. In 2005, much to the chagrin of Wild Turkey fans, the ABV was brought down to its current level, making this a 90-proof expression. The nose on Russell’s Reserve 10-Year-Old Bourbon contains varying vanillas, from ice cream to vanilla extract. There are also pastry notes and the aroma of brioche buns, along with a touch of salted caramel, warm oak, and fresh nutmeg. The palate on Russell’s Reserve 10-Year Bourbon is distinctly earthy at first, with toasted walnuts, apple leather, and mature oak leading the charge. As you chew the bourbon, you’ll notice that those notes grow in prominence with the oak and walnut flavors outpacing the restrained fruitiness and baking spices like clove and cinnamon become more pronounced. The mouthfeel is middle of the road, which serves well to carry all of those earthy flavors without being overly slick and distracting from them. The finish is marked by more vanilla tones, think vanilla pod more so than vanilla extract, and there’s more hazelnut flavor to be discovered alongside oak and red apple skin. It’s a medium-length finish that works well because it fades before that mature oak begins to dry out the back of your palate. Russell’s Reserve 10-Year-Old Bourbon is one of the best values in American whiskey, offering a well-aged expression at an affordable price. This expression is perhaps the best example of Wild Turkey’s ability to deliver that consistently competes with bourbons at twice the price. Let’s face it, you’d be hard-pressed to do better than bringing one of Wild best bourbons to Thanksgiving dinner. Bottles from $60-$100 4. WhistlePig 10-Year Small Batch Rye Whiskey WhistlePig’s 10-year-old rye whiskey, sourced from Canada, is so damn good (and well-known at this point) that it’s probably the contemporary standard for Canadian whiskey among American whiskey enthusiasts. Aged for at least 10 years, these bottles have been known to house liquid that pushes up to 11 or 12 years old and beyond. The nosing notes open with some applewood, cedar, slight mint, and red apples. I’m immediately put into an autumnal state of mind when nosing this whiskey as a touch of butterscotch and salted caramel rounds things out. On the palate, the whiskey is immediately mouth-coating and creamy, with those notes of fresh red apples and cedar claiming the lead in terms of prominence while butterscotch, faint hints of dill and mint, plus cedar wood begin to blossom at midpalate. The medium-length finish is drying like apples can be, as the fruit sugars dissipate and leave the edges of your tongue slightly astringent. There’s more cedar, cinnamon bark, and a faint bit of clove to be found before it all ends. This viscous, sweet whiskey fits perfectly under the “crushable” descriptor while offering enough intrigue to keep you from hurriedly tossing it back. It is the perfect whiskey for a holiday party because it’s good enough to warrant conversation but simply enjoyable enough to enhance all of the conversation happening around it. 3. Lagavulin 16 Considered by many to be the benchmark of smoky Islay Scotch whisky, Lagavulin’s well-earned reputation is difficult to escape. This peated Scotch classic achieved its status as the King of Islay for balancing that smoky profile with a deft touch of sweetness. The nose opens with bold billows of peat smoke, but as those gently waft away, you’ll notice some meaty undertones with slight salinity reminiscent of savory bacon fat, a touch of smoked honey, sweet sherry, and creamy vanilla ice cream with a touch of cinnamon bark. On the palate, this whiskey remains true to its aroma notes as it opens with enveloping smoke that then introduces the savory bacon fat notes, which then subside, allowing space for the sherry sweetness along with a touch of honeyed black tea and the flavor of crème brûlée. The texture is robust, and it simultaneously coats your palate while also spryly rolling over your tongue, searching for new territory to claim. The finish continues the interplay of savory and sweet with a gentle kiss of smoke as it lingers for quite a while after the final sip is gone, gently and slowly receding as it beckons you to re-fill your glass. While isn’t for everyone, this bottle is sure to sink its hooks into someone. At the very least, it’s a cool idea to bring this classic example of Islay Scotch for guests to try, but you shouldn’t be shocked if a smaller group of discerning individuals slowly drink the bottle into extinction over the course of the night. 2. Four Roses Single Barrel Bourbon This bottle, a single-barrel version of Four Roses’ OBSV recipe ( ), is an absolutely classic bourbon. The brand describes the OBSV recipe as having a delicate, fruit-forward yeast and a high-rye mash bill. The nosing notes are resplendent with red berries as the aroma of raspberries and black cherries leap out of the glass, along with a touch of sage, singed mint, Brazil nuts, and blood oranges. This is one expressive and inviting nose. On the palate, those flavors continue to develop as the blood orange fuses with black cherries, and they’re joined by black pepper spice, singed mint, sage, and even a bit of cedar at midpalate. The juxtaposition of citrus, sweetness, woodsiness, and baking spice might seem like a cacophony of flavors, but they all come together harmoniously. The finish is where the baking spice slightly wins out over the fruit-forward notes as it lingers with medium length on the tongue, sizzling the tip and leaving bits of bright cherry and Valencia orange meat on the back end. If you aren’t picking up on a theme here, this bottle should help spell it out. Four Roses Single Barrel Bourbon is packed with flavor but still maintains an approachability and sweetness that will make it appealing to connoisseurs and novices alike. Furthermore, it has a berry-forward flavor profile that pairs well with Thanksgiving dishes and still lands at a price point that makes it fair game for mixing in cocktails. 1. Benriach The Smoky Ten Speyside Single Malt Scotch Whisky Benriach’s use of Highland peat sets them apart from the bruising Islay peated expressions that most whiskey drinkers are familiar with. The Highlands’ wood-rich peat is more delicate and fruit-forward, and it’s part of what makes Benriach’s Smoky Ten (and their fabulous Smoky 12) expression so unique. This one is made from a blend of peated and unpeated whiskey that was aged in a combination of ex-bourbon barrels, ex-Jamaican rum casks, and virgin oak that was toasted to the distillery’s specifications. The nose gives you an indication of that intricate lineage with a faint bit of tropical fruits like overripe mangoes and bananas joining forces with butterscotch, dried apricots, and smoked applewood. Once on the palate, this whiskey opens with spiced pear flavors along with smoked honey and dried apricots. Wow, the first sip is so complex and full of well-defined flavors that a second sip is immediately necessary, and once you take a second sip, the joy of unlocking that mystery takes hold. The liquid is moderately textured, which means that its viscousness doesn’t stand in the way of your picking apart each layer of flavor and savoring it at length. The medium-length finish is where the smoke takes hold, and as promised, it’s a gentler smoke profile than most Islay Scotches and comes complete with an applewood and honey sweetness that makes it more palatable for beginners and more intriguing for avid imbibers. Benriach’s Smoky Ten expression perfectly encapsulates the type of fun, flavorful whiskeys that the Highland distillery is making across its portfolio. While it remains true to the delicate, sweet, and slightly floral profile that Highland single malt is known for, by adding that twist of Highland peat, Benriach elevates this whiskey to must-try status with ease. As a holiday companion, this is one you’re likely to stick to like glue throughout the entire night. Bottles over $100 4. Heaven Hill Grain To Glass Rye (2024) Heaven Hill’s brand-new Grain To Glass lineup features three whiskeys intended to highlight the carefully grown grains (Beck’s 6158 corn) they sourced from hand-selected local farming partners. For the lineup’s lone rye offering, they bottled a whiskey that utilizes a different grain source and mash bill from their other standout expressions like Parker’s Heritage 10-Year Rye and Pikesville Rye. Tobacco leaf, almond, mint sprigs, and oak all take turns rising and falling on the nose for a dense, impressive melange that makes you want to sit with your glass for extended consideration. The heavy mouthfeel brings milk chocolate, tobacco leaf, oak, and smoked mint across the palate on the first sip. The layers of flavor go deeper on the second sip, with cayenne, caramel, and cinnamon dancing on the center of the palate, while the influence of ethanol causes the periphery of the tongue to pulsate with delight. The finish is long-lasting, drying the palate out a bit while black tea, oak, freshly cracked black pepper, and mint linger at the back of the tongue. Heaven Hill’s Grain To Glass series hit the mark across the entire lineup, but the rye is easily the star of the show. They’ve delivered a bottle of rye that can go toe-to-toe with the best of them by switching up their grain source and tinkering with the mash bill to optimize it. You’ll want your friends and family to appreciate what makes this whiskey different from the others in . 3. Octomore 15.2 For Octomore 15.2, the whiskey was initially aged in second-fill wine casks (42%) and second-fill Bourbon casks (58%) before being finished in second-fill French oak ex-Cognac casks that push the flavor profile in an intriguing direction. The 15.2 features the same batch of Scottish-grown barley as 15.1, also malted to 108.22 PPM. The aroma notes sing with Brie cheese, lime zest, walnuts, and cherries. Despite having the same phenol level of 15.1, the 15.2 comes across as less smoky thanks to its pine-like woodsiness, with moss, ginger cookies, and brown butter. Once on the palate, those nosing notes delicately unfurl with wisps of moss and smoke, subtly masking the vanilla custard, dried apricot, and Rainier cherry notes. The slick, velvety texture finds a home in every corner of the mouth as it gently coats the palate, allowing each flavor note to develop with ample space. The finish is where a greater infusion of smoke comes through with pink peppercorn, nutmeg, and a slight salinity. While this year’s Octomore 15.3 is drawing a lot of attention for being a phenomenal phenolic force, . With a balanced bouquet of aromas married to a patient, revealing palate, Octomore 15.2 is a testament to the delicate deployment of peat. It’ll make an awesome companion to some of the holiday’s savory dishes. 2. Redbreast 15-Year-Old Irish Whiskey Utilizing first fill and refill casks (ex-bourbon and ex-sherry, to be exact) combines a bevy of classic flavors for this exciting Irish whiskey offering aged for at least 15 years. Redbreast is well known for being in the world, and this 15-year expression, a step up from their flagship 12-year, is where the whiskey starts hitting its stride. The aroma notes begin with caramel-drizzled pineapple for an unexpectedly sweet opening that then lends itself to a touch of savoriness in the form of cooked dates and bacon fat before the fruit-forward aspect lurches to the top of those aromas with cooked blueberries and Manuka honey. On the palate, the whiskey has a rich texture atop the tongue, which quickly recedes like a bubble bursting to reveal all of the fruity flavor hiding underneath its initial viscousness. Star anise and vanilla pod flavors accent notes of hazelnut spread, dark chocolate chunks, ripe oranges, and grilled peaches. As it takes a turn to the finish, you’ll also pick up hints of cinnamon, dandelions, and ginger. The finish is where the sweetness becomes more restrained as hazelnuts, ginger, and vanilla pods linger on the palate, leaving a touch of citrus and cacao behind before things slowly come to a close. Whether you’re already an avid fan of Irish whiskey or new to the game, it’d be hard to do better than exploring the Redbreast core lineup. This 15-year whiskey is capable of creating converts across the whisk(e)y spectrum, and you’d be wise to put it to the test at your next holiday gathering to see how many hardcore Scotch and bourbon drinkers find themselves gravitating towards this tasty treat. 1. A Midwinter Night’s Dram Act 12, Scene 1 . Though the expression has seen its price creep up in recent years, the enthusiasm around the brand hasn’t abated, making the blend of rye whiskies finished in both Tawny and Ruby port barrels one of the season’s hard-to-find bottles that are worth it. The nosing notes open with the sweetness of the port wine casks as a slight nuttiness envelopes the overall profile before jammy red berries, allspice, cedar, and a faint bit of mint pick up in prominence. On the palate, this whiskey begins a bit austere but soon blossoms to reveal the red berry notes from the nose in lockstep with allspice, mint, and honeyed, toasted multigrain bread. The texture, too, begins a bit austere before unwinding as the whiskey travels toward the back of the palate, revealing ribbons of black pepper and more mint before reaching the finish. The medium-length finish is where black pepper, raspberry compote, and singed mint can be found, along with some vanilla pod flavor and restrained sage. While High West’s Midwinter Night’s Dram offering has waxed and waned in quality over the years, what remains consistent is that this unique flavor profile is a perfect fit for holiday enjoyment. While it’s exceedingly welcome at the Thanksgiving table, don’t feel bad if you can’t secure a bottle before then; it’ll be an equally delicious treat for Christmas.SEOUL — A South Korean man has been sentenced to a suspended prison term for deliberately gaining more than 44 pounds to evade a tougher role in the country’s military conscription system, a Seoul court said Tuesday. In South Korea, all able-bodied men must serve in the military for 18-21 months, but individuals with health issues can instead carry out their duties at non-military facilities such as welfare centers and community service centers. If their problems are serious, they are exempted from their military duties. The Seoul Eastern District Court said it sentenced the man to one year in prison, suspended for two years, for violating the country’s military service act. The court said an acquaintance of the man received a suspended 1-year prison term for aiding his crime. Local media reported they are friends, both aged 26, but the court said it couldn’t confirm the reports. An exam in 2017 found the man suitable to become an active-duty soldier at 5 feet 6 inches tall and weighting 183 pounds. But with the advice of his acquaintance that he could get a social service grade if he was overweight, he doubled his daily food consumption, focused on eating high-calorie food products and quit his part-time job as a delivery worker, according to the court’s public affairs office. In three physical exams from 2022-23, the man weighed 225-231 pounds, a weight that made him fit for social service. Just before those exams, he drank a large amount of water as well, according to the court. It was unclear how the crime was caught and whether the man began serving his military duty before he was tried. The court only said the man had promised to fulfill his military duty faithfully. The court said both the defendants and prosecutors didn’t appeal the Nov. 13 ruling. South Korea maintains a military conscription system due to threats from rival North Korea. But exemptions or dodging of military duties is a highly sensitive domestic issue, because the draft forces young men to suspend their studies or professional careers. Each year, about 50-60 cases of dodging military duties have been reported, according to the Military Manpower Administration. It said common ways to evade military duties include gaining or losing weight excessively or men with health issues not taking necessary medical treatments before physical tests. Kim writes for the Associated Press.
WASHINGTON — American Airlines briefly grounded flights nationwide Tuesday because of a technical problem just as the Christmas travel season kicked into overdrive and winter weather threatened more potential problems for those planning to fly or drive. Government regulators cleared American flights to get airborne about an hour after the Federal Aviation Administration ordered a national ground stop for the airline. The order, which prevented planes from taking off, was issued at the airline's request. The airline said in an email that the problem was caused by trouble with vendor technology that maintains its flight operating system. An American Airlines employee wearing looks toward quiet check-in counters Tuesday in the American terminal at Miami International Airport in Miami. Dennis Tajer, a spokesperson for the Allied Pilots Association, a union representing American Airlines pilots, said the airline told pilots at 7 a.m. Eastern that there was an outage affecting the system known as FOS. It handles different types of airline operations, including dispatch, flight planning, passenger boarding, as well as an airplane's weight and balance data, he said. Some components of FOS have gone down in the past, but a systemwide outage is rare, Tajer said. Flights were delayed across American's major hubs, with only 37% leaving on time, according to Cirium, an aviation analytics company. Out of the 3,901 domestic and international American Airlines flights scheduled for Tuesday, 19 were canceled. Cirium noted that the vast majority of flights departed within two hours of their scheduled departure time. A similar percentage — 36% — arrived at their destinations as scheduled. Meanwhile, the flight-tracking site FlightAware reported that 3,712 flights entering or leaving the U.S., or serving domestic destinations, were delayed Tuesday, with 55 flights canceled. It did not show any flights from American Airlines. Cirium said Dallas-Fort Worth, New York's Kennedy Airport and Charlotte, North Carolina, saw the greatest number of delays. Washington, Chicago and Miami experienced considerably fewer delays. Travelers wait in line for security checks Tuesday at the Los Angeles International Airport in Los Angeles. Amid the travel problems, significant rain and snow were expected in the Pacific Northwest at least into Christmas Day. Showers and thunderstorms developed in the South. Freezing rain was reported in the Mid-Atlantic region near Baltimore and Washington, and snow fell in New York. Because the holiday travel period lasts weeks, airports and airlines typically have smaller peak days than they do during the rush around Thanksgiving, but the grind of one hectic day followed by another takes a toll on flight crews. Any hiccups — a winter storm or a computer outage — can snowball into massive disruptions. That is how Southwest Airlines stranded 2 million travelers in December 2022, and Delta Air Lines suffered a smaller but significant meltdown after a worldwide technology outage in July caused by a faulty software update from cybersecurity company CrowdStrike. Many flights during the holidays are sold out, which makes cancellations even more disruptive than during slower periods. That is especially true for smaller budget airlines that have fewer flights and fewer options for rebooking passengers. Only the largest airlines, including American, Delta and United, have "interline agreements" that let them put stranded customers on another carrier's flights. An American Airlines employee wearing a Santa Claus hat walks through the American terminal Tuesday at Miami International Airport in Miami. This will be the first holiday season since a Transportation Department rule took effect that requires airlines to give customers an automatic cash refund for a canceled or significantly delayed flight. Most air travelers were already eligible for refunds, but they often had to request them. Passengers still can ask to get rebooked, which is often a better option than a refund during peak travel periods. Finding a last-minute flight on another airline tends to be expensive. An American spokesperson said Tuesday was not a peak travel day for the airline — with about 2,000 fewer flights than the busiest days — so the airline had somewhat of a buffer to manage the delays. The groundings happened as millions of travelers were expected to fly over the next 10 days. The Transportation Security Administration expects to screen 40 million passengers through Jan. 2. Airlines expect to have their busiest days on Thursday, Friday and Sunday. American Airlines employees check in travelers Tuesday in the American terminal at Miami International Airport in Miami. Many flights during the holidays are sold out, which makes cancellations more disruptive than during slower periods. Even with just a brief outage, the cancellations have a cascading effect that can take days to clear up. About 90% of Americans traveling far from home over the holidays will be in cars, according to AAA. "Airline travel is just really high right now, but most people do drive to their destinations, and that is true for every holiday," AAA spokesperson Aixa Diaz said. Gasoline prices are similar to last year. The nationwide average Thursday was $3.04 a gallon, down from $3.13 a year ago, according to AAA. Charging an electric vehicle averages just under 35 cents per per kilowatt hour, but varies by state. Transportation-data firm INRIX says travel times on the nation's highways could be up to 30% longer than normal over the holidays, with Sunday expected to see the heaviest traffic. "It's not the destination, it's the journey," said American essayist Ralph Waldo Emerson. Ralph clearly was not among the travellers on one of more than 350 cancelled or 1,400 delayed flights after a worldwide tech outage caused by an update to Crowdstrike's "Falcon Sensor" software in July of 2023. U.S. airlines carried nearly 863 million travellers in 2023, with Canadian carriers accounting for another 150 million, many of whom experienced lost luggage, flight delays, cancellations, or were bumped off their flights. It's unclear how many of them were compensated for these inconveniences. Suffice it to say, posting a crabby rant on social media might temporarily soothe anger, but it won't put wasted money back in pockets. shares what to know in order to be compensated for the three most common air travel headaches. Bags elected to go on a vacay without you? Check off the following: If you expect a large payout, think again. Tariffs (air carrier contracts) limit the compensation amounts for "loss of, damage to, or the delay in delivery of baggage or other personal property." In the case of Air Canada, the maximum payout is $1,500 per passenger in the currency of the country where the baggage was processed. To raise that limit, purchase a Declaration of Higher Value for each leg of the trip. The charge is $0.50 for each $100, in which case the payout limit is $2,500. For Delta Air Lines, passengers are entitled to up to $3,800 in baggage compensation, though how much you'll receive depends on your flight. Delta will pay up to $2,080 for delayed, lost, and damaged baggage for international travellers, almost half of what U.S. domestic passengers can claim. If your flight is marked delayed for more than 30 minutes, approach the gate agent and politely request food and hotel vouchers to be used within the airport or nearby. Different air carriers and jurisdictions have their own compensation policies when flights are delayed or cancelled. For example, under European Union rules, passengers may receive up to 600 Euros, even when travelling on a non-EU carrier. Similarly, the DOT states that travellers are entitled to a refund "if the airline cancelled a flight, regardless of the reason, and the consumer chooses not to travel." However, US rules regarding delays are complicated. Some air carriers, such as Air Canada, do not guarantee their flight schedules. They're also not liable for cancellations or changes due to "force majeure" such as weather conditions or labour disruptions. If the delay is overnight, only out-of-town passengers will be offered hotel accommodation. Nevertheless, many airlines do offer some compensation for the inconvenience. If your flight is marked delayed for more than 30 minutes, approach the gate agent and politely request food and hotel vouchers to be used within the airport or nearby. In terms of cash compensation, what you'll get can differ significantly based on things like departure location, time, carrier, and ticket class. The DOT offers a helpful designed to keep travellers informed about their compensation rights. The dashboard is particularly helpful because, as the DOT states on its website, "whether you are entitled to a refund depends on a lot of factors—such as the length of the delay, the length of the flight, and your particular circumstances." The Canadian Transportation Agency is proposing air passenger protection regulations that guarantee financial compensation to travellers experiencing flight delays and cancellations, with the level of compensation varying depending on the situation and how much control the air carrier had. The proposed regulations include the following: The airline is obligated to complete the passenger's itinerary. If the new ticket is for a lower class of service, the air carrier would have to refund the cost difference; if the booking is in a higher class of service, passengers cannot be charged extra. If the passenger declines the ticket, the airline must give a full refund, in addition to the prescribed compensation. For overnight delays, the air carrier needs to provide hotel accommodation and transportation free-of-charge. Again, if you are unsatisfied, the Canadian Transportation Agency or Department of Transportation may advocate on your behalf. Passengers get bumped because airlines overbook. When this happens, the air carrier must compensate you. For international flights in the US, the rate is 200% of your one-way fare to your final destination, with a $675 maximum. If the airline does not make travel arrangements for you, the payout is 400% of your one-way fare to a maximum of $1,350. To qualify, you must check-in by the stated deadline, which on international flights can be up to 3 hours ahead. Keep in mind that if you accept the cash, you are no longer entitled to any further compensation, nor are you guaranteed to be rebooked on a direct flight or similar type of seat. Don't be too quick to give up your boarding pass. Negotiate for the best compensation deal that would include cash, food and hotel vouchers, flight upgrade, lounge passes, as well as mileage points. But avoid being too greedy—if the gate attendant is requesting volunteers and you wait too long, you'll miss the offer. According to Air Canada's tariff, if a passenger is involuntarily bumped, they'll receive $200, in cash or bank draft, for up to a two-hour delay; $400 for a 2-6 hours delay; and $800 if the delay is over six hours. (Air Canada was forced to raise its payouts in 2013 due to passenger complaints.) The new rules would raise the payout significantly: $900 for up to six hours; $1,800 for 6-9; and $2,400 for more than nine hours, all to be paid within 48 hours. Statistically speaking, Delta Airlines is the carrier most likely to bump. A few years ago, Delta raised its payout maximum to $9,950, while United Airlines tops out at $10,000. Get local news delivered to your inbox!Heavy travel day starts with brief grounding of all American Airlines flightsA letter to the Polish foreign minister Radoslaw Sikorski
Russian Security Council Secretary Sergei Shoigu said on Tuesday that the United States should pay for the reconstruction of Afghanistan, which is now ruled by the fanatical Islamists of the Taliban as a human rights nightmare. “We discussed further cooperation across all areas. This includes economic issues, as well as detailed discussions on transportation. We addressed everything related to trade and discussed a major energy deal, all of which have promising prospects,” Shoigu said after a meeting with Taliban leaders in Kabul. “The topic of the United States was also raised, as it continues to plunder everything and everyone with impunity. The issue concerned the return of assets and funds that belong solely to the Afghan people. As with Libya and Syria, the U.S. refuses to return them,” Shoigu continued. “In my opinion, the United States should invest in the reconstruction of Afghanistan after everything it has done and abandoned there. This applies to everything: the needs of the people, rebuilding facilities, and restoring infrastructure,” he said. Shoigu said Taliban leaders asked for help lifting the pressure of U.S. sanctions during their meeting, and he told them Russia was in their corner. “Let me confirm our readiness to establish a constructive political dialogue between our countries and among the goals would be providing an impulse for the process of a settlement among Afghans,” he said. The Taliban is technically still classified as a terrorist organization in Russia, but last month the Russian Foreign Ministry announced that a decision has been “taken at the highest level” to remove it from Moscow’s list of banned terrorists. Russia added the Taliban to the list in 2003 because it supported Islamist separatists in the North Caucasus. Until recently, Moscow seemed to be worried that support might resume, or the North Caucasian separatists might learn dangerously useful lessons from President Joe Biden’s disastrous withdrawal and the Taliban’s conquest of Kabul. Russia needed friends after alienating much of the civilized world by invading Ukraine in 2022, and President Vladimir Putin’s desire for more allies in Asia appears to have quelled any lingering concerns he had about the Taliban. Shoigu said on Tuesday that enhanced economic and political cooperation with the Taliban is on Moscow’s agenda. Taliban Interior Ministry spokesman Abdul Mateen Qani said his regime also desires closer relations. “In this meeting, the two sides held comprehensive discussions on political, security, and economic issues. Mr. Shoigu pledged that the process of removing the Islamic Emirate’s name, previously referred to as the Taliban Movement, from the Russian blacklist is in its final stages,” Qani said. “The visit of the Russian delegation to Afghanistan, their discussions on political and economic issues, and the announcement to remove the current Afghan government’s name from the list of terrorist organizations are all positive developments,” political analyst Zalmai Afghanyar told Afghanistan’s Tolo News. Tolo News reported Shoigu “expressed Russia’s desire for Afghanistan to regain its position as an observer member of the Shanghai Cooperation Organization.” Afghanistan has been trying to gain full membership in the Shanghai Cooperation Organization (SCO) since long before the Taliban takeover, because even the U.S.-backed civilian government saw the SCO as a vehicle for developing closer relations with China and Russia. Afghanistan gained observer status in 2012 under then-President Hamid Karzai, but that status was suspended after the Biden withdrawal disaster in 2021. Russia, like China , covets Afghanistan’s mineral resources. At an economic forum in Kazan, Russia, in May, Taliban Trade Minister Nooruddin Azizi invited Russia to invest in metal and gem mining. “In Afghanistan we have very large reserves of lithium and copper, as well as mineral resources such as precious stones. There is good potential for the extraction of these metals and minerals, and I hope that Russian companies will invest in Afghanistan in this area,” Azizi said. If Russia removes the Taliban from its terrorist list, the next step toward gaining access to Afghanistan’s valuable minerals could involve Moscow becoming the first country to officially recognize the Taliban government as legitimate. Not even rapacious China has taken that step yet, and Russia might be hesitating for similar reasons: because not even the resource-hungry Axis of Tyranny super-powers trust the Taliban to keep its promises. “The Taliban are always very willing to accept advance concessions, but things get complicated when it comes to reciprocating them,” Counter Extremism Project (CEP) analyst Hans-Jakob Schindler observed in June, when the Taliban sent a delegation to the St. Petersburg International Economic Forum. “It hardly matters whether Russia crosses the Taliban off its terror list or not, as long as the United Nations Security Council in New York keeps the Taliban on it sanctions list,” Schindler added, pointing out another roadblock to Russia offering a trade of diplomatic legitimacy for mineral rights.
Alberta premier tables sovereignty act motion challenging federal emission capThe Trade Desk’s Ashton De Santis: Upfronts Uncovered – Measurement and accountability take centre stageBettor wagers $52,500 on Browns-Steelers total as number plummetsThe shock rocker Marilyn Manson has dropped his long-running defamation lawsuit against the actor Evan Rachel Wood and has agreed to pay her about $327,000 in attorneys’ fees, Deadline reported . Wood had previously identified Manson as her abuser in February 2021, accusing her former fiance of sexual assault, psychological abuse, violence, coercion and intimidation. The Westworld actor accused her former partner on social media in 2021 of “horrific” abuse, along with allegations of grooming her starting from when she was a teenager. Other women came forward with similar allegations following Wood’s public denouncement. Manson denied the accusations, calling them “horrible distortions of reality”, and responded by filing a lawsuit against Wood in March 2022, citing defamation and emotional distress. “Marilyn Manson – whose real name is Brian Warner – filed a lawsuit against Ms Wood as a publicity stunt to try to undermine the credibility of his many accusers and revive his faltering career. But his attempt to silence and intimidate Ms Wood failed,” a representative for Wood said in a statement obtained by Rolling Stone . “As the trial court correctly found, Warner’s claims were meritless. Warner’s decision to finally abandon his lawsuit and pay Ms Wood her full fee award of almost $327,000 only confirms as much.” A judge ruled against portions of Manson’s lawsuit in 2023 and ordered Manson to pay about $500,000 in attorney fees. Manson filed an appeal against the decision, which now appears unsuccessful following the dropping of his case. According to Deadline , court documents indicating the end of the lawsuit and the agreement to pay Wood’s legal fees were signed yesterday by Manson.
Milwaukee hip-hop band Black Elephant returns for special 20th anniversary concert
ORCHARD PARK, N.Y. (AP) — In a season that began with many questions and lowered expectations, it was apt watching Bills quarterback Josh Allen join coach Sean McDermott lay on the cold, wet sideline to make snow angels in celebrating Buffalo’s earliest clinching of a division title in team history. Read this article for free: Already have an account? To continue reading, please subscribe: * ORCHARD PARK, N.Y. (AP) — In a season that began with many questions and lowered expectations, it was apt watching Bills quarterback Josh Allen join coach Sean McDermott lay on the cold, wet sideline to make snow angels in celebrating Buffalo’s earliest clinching of a division title in team history. Read unlimited articles for free today: Already have an account? ORCHARD PARK, N.Y. (AP) — In a season that began with many questions and lowered expectations, it was apt watching Bills quarterback Josh Allen join coach Sean McDermott lay on the cold, wet sideline to make snow angels in celebrating Buffalo’s earliest clinching of a division title in team history. That Allen took part was no surprise. The newly engaged 28-year-old has maintained the happy-go-lucky approach he brought with him to Buffalo as a raw-talented athlete in 2018, while gradually blossoming into one of the NFL’s elite quarterbacks. For McDermott, it was a pleasant surprise to see the usually reserved eight-year coach finally let his hair down — figuratively, because the few jokes he does make are usually about being bald. With his latest do-it-all three-TD outing — one rushing, one receiving and, the coup de grace, being credited with receiving his own pass for a score off a lateral from Amari Cooper — in a 35-10 win over San Francisco on Sunday night, Allen continued making his strongest NFL MVP case. What’s also becoming apparent is how much McDermott deserves consideration for coach of the year honors. Without the two, the Bills (10-2) wouldn’t be in this position in becoming just the eighth NFL team — and first since Indianapolis in 2009 — to clinch a division title with at least five games remaining in their schedule. It’s reflective of how the two have grown together in what, on the outside, could be perceived as an odd couple relationship between an offensive-minded, swashbuckling quarterback and a defensive-minded coach, too often knocked for being too conservative. Perhaps, it’s Allen’s boyish nature that has brought out the risk-taker in McDermott, who has carried over the aggressive approach he takes to defense by placing trust in his quarterback. It’s become apparent in everything the Bills have accomplished so far in having at least 10 wins through 12 games for just the fifth time in team history, and first since 1991, when Buffalo was led by eventual Hall of Famers in coach Marv Levy and quarterback Jim Kelly. Buffalo has won seven straight since consecutive losses to Baltimore and Houston. And the Bills have scored 30 or more points in six straight outings, matching the team record set in 2004. Allen is doing more with less on an offense that was supposed to be hampered following the offseason departures of receivers Stefon Diggs and Gabe Davis and center Mitch Morse. The Bills are more balanced in leaning on their running attack, while Allen has also curtailed his turnover-prone ways. He’s lost two fumbles and thrown just five interceptions after being picked off a career-worst 18 times last season. Meantime, McDermott has taken a different approach to fourth down situations. The Bills have converted 13 of 15 fourth down attempts after going 9 of 16 last season and 7 of 13 in 2022. The most fourth down attempts during McDermott’s tenure came in 2021, when Buffalo converted just 11 of 22. This is but an example of the bond the quarterback and coach have built in a shared objective of overcoming past playoff failures. Clinching a division title is but one step, with the Bills now focused on catching the Kansas City Chiefs (11-1), whom they’ve beaten already, for the AFC’s top seed. In calling it the team’s next goal, McDermott went off script from his usual game-at-a-time message by noting the importance of celebrating a division-clinching win, if only for one day. “Being 50 years old and 20-plus years in this league, I’ve learned to try and enjoy the moments,” McDermott said. “And this is a moment, right?” It certainly was. What’s working Turnover differential. Buffalo’s defense forced three fumbles, including one at its goal line, while the offense didn’t commit a giveaway. The Bills upped their league-leading turnover differential entering Monday to plus-17. What needs help Run defense. Though the conditions were snowy and slick, the Bills allowed 119 yards rushing in the first half before the 49ers were forced to start passing the ball once the score became lopsided. Buffalo particularly struggled in stopping Christian McCaffrey, who had 53 yards on seven carries before leaving the game with a potential season-ending knee injury. Stock up LB Matt Milano was in on five tackles while playing 37 of 48 defensive snaps in his first outing in nearly 14 months after being sidelined by a broken right leg and torn left biceps. Stock down CB Kaiir Elam, the 2022 first-round pick was a healthy inactive for a second straight outing, and still having difficulty finding a regular role. Injuries None reported. Key number Winnipeg Jets Game Days On Winnipeg Jets game days, hockey writers Mike McIntyre and Ken Wiebe send news, notes and quotes from the morning skate, as well as injury updates and lineup decisions. Arrives a few hours prior to puck drop. 9-0 — The Bills’ home record going back to last season, marking their second-longest run in team history. Next steps Hit the road for two outings, starting with a trip to face the Los Angeles Rams on Sunday. ___ AP NFL: https://apnews.com/hub/nfl Advertisement Advertisement
The state of Maryland is set to gain control of the DC Air National Guard fighter squadron as part of a major deal that will see the nation’s capital take over the site of RFK stadium. The Air Force approved the transfer of the 121st Fighter Squadron from Washington, DC, to the Maryland Air National Guard, according to spokeswoman Ann Stefanek. Maryland currently flies A-10 attack aircraft, but those are scheduled for divestment from the Air Force next year, according to the governor’s office. The new development means the Maryland Air National Guard will soon fly F-16 fighter jets, a more advanced aircraft that serves as one of the mainstays of the Air Force’s fleet. The DC Air National Guard also defends the National Capital Region, which is some of the most sensitive airspace in the country. The fighter wing has a round-the-clock alert force as part of its mission. By contrast, the Maryland Air National Guard’s aging A-10 aircraft were primarily used in an overseas attack role when deployed. The Maryland unit was supposed to transition into a cyber role, but the transfer of control of the fighter squadron will maintain the unit’s flying mission. “The men and women of the Maryland Air National Guard are some of the finest and most experienced pilots in the world. In partnership with our congressional delegation and federal partners, we have advocated vigorously to maintain Maryland’s flying mission, both in the interest of national security and to continue the proud tradition that Maryland plays in defending our country,” Democratic Gov. Wes Moore said in a joint statement with the state’s senators on Monday. The transfer of the fighter squadron was a critical part of a complex deal that allows Washington, DC, to take over the land around RFK stadium, which could bring the NFL back to the nation’s capital, while also providing Maryland with funding to rebuild the Francis Scott Key Bridge . The deal was at risk of collapse last week when a provision to transfer the stadium land to DC was stripped from a government funding package following opposition from President-elect Donald Trump and billionaire Elon Musk. But in a surprise move early Saturday morning, the Senate unanimously passed a bill giving DC control of the land. The Robert F. Kennedy Memorial Stadium Campus Revitalization Act now awaits President Joe Biden’s signature after it passed the House earlier this year. The Washington Commanders football team has played at Northwest Stadium, formerly known as FedEx Field, in Landover, Maryland, since 1997. The franchise previously played at RFK Stadium from 1961 until 1996. Maryland Air National Guard Brig. Gen. Drew Dougherty called the deal an “historic moment” for the unit. “Over the past few years, we have been resolute on our commitment to securing a future flying mission. This transition is the first step in delivering a path where we can maintain our highly experienced pilots and maintainers, positions that are critically manned across the total force, while still keeping Maryland at the forefront of cyber operation,” Dougherty said in a statement. Details about the timeline and the transition of the fighters from DC to Maryland “will be announced at a later date,” said Stefanek.MILWAUKEE — An icon of the Milwaukee music scene is returning to the stage to celebrate a major milestone. The hip-hop band Black Elephant is returning for a special concert on Black Friday. The concert commemorates the 20th anniversary of their second album Eat This. The album featured the song "Nutrition." Radio Milwaukee called the song one of the 10 most important hip-hop records from Milwaukee. The core members of the group are Element Everest Blanks, Dameon Ellzey, and Derrick Harriell. “We were kind of at the forefront of performing with live bands as far as hip-hop is concerned. All of our band members are still out there making music," Everest Blanks, who goes by the stage name Element, said. Listen to Black Elephant's Music... The three rappers, poets, and singers formed thanks to Geraud Blanks back in 2000. The group released two albums, Hiatus (2002) and Eat This (2004). They toured all across the country for a decade. However, it wasn't always easy to book shows as a hip-hop band. "When we started there wasn't a lot (of hip-hop bands), so we had to pave that lane. It was hard for us to get shows at first because people was like, 'a hip-hop band?!' You know, you could be either north side, east side, and we was in between," Dameon Ellzey, who goes by his own name on stage, said. That didn't stop the group, though. They persevered and performed dozens of shows for small audiences and large crowds. "We'll play for 5 people. We’ll play for 500 people. I know that’s cliche. We’ll also play for $500 bucks or $5. We were really hungry, and we really just wanted to get our message out there, our artistry," Derrick Harriell, who goes by the stage name Verbal, said. Black Elephant wanted to leave their listeners and audience thinking about life, culture, and the state of affairs. “Our message was social, conscious, Milwaukee grit. It was like a melting pot of everything," Harriell said. Geraud Blanks, the group's manager, remembers how each artist was talented in their own way, but together they complimented each other to create a unique sound. "The three of them, when they come together, there's this amazing chemistry. And they do so many different things that's the beauty of this group," Blanks said. The "different things" is in reference to the group's versatility between poetry, singing, and rapping. "We would always make space for everyone's artistry to show on every song. And it was just a natural fit. It was never something we had to argue or fight over," Element said. Eventually, the group disbanded around 2010. There was no bad blood. The group was just ready to move on. They had new passions and growing families. “But we’ve all kept in touch, we’ve all been cool, and we’ve been wanting to get back to this point," Ellzey said. The reunion show is at The Cooperage in Milwaukee on Black Friday. While the members might be a bit older now, they are going to bring the heat like it’s 2004. “My back is sore right now from the grueling rehearsals, but of course, we’ll be ready by Friday," Verbal said. All three of them are just excited to be back on stage making music with their friends. "I miss the band. You see all the instruments here, this room being full of that energy, that creative energy, and everybody being in that same mode and everybody wanting to get to the perfect sound, the perfect song, finishing it up. That’s beautiful," Ellzey said. The show starts at 8 and general admission tickets are $35. It’s about time to watch on your time. Stream local news and weather 24/7 by searching for “TMJ4” on your device. Available for download on Roku, Apple TV, Amazon Fire TV, and more. Report a typo or error // Submit a news tip
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TAMPA, Fla. (AP) — Tampa Bay’s bid for a fourth straight NFC South title and fifth consecutive playoff berth is gaining momentum. Back-to-back wins over a pair of last-place teams , combined with Atlanta’s three-game losing streak, have propelled the Bucs (6-6) to a tie atop the division. Although the Falcons (6-6) hold a tiebreaker after sweeping the season series between the teams, Tampa Bay can control its own destiny by finishing strong against a less than imposing schedule. The Bucs, who are back in the thick of the race after beating the New York Giants and Carolina Panthers, figure to be favored in four of their five remaining games. “Every week, we said it’s a playoff game, we got to take care of us. It’s not going to be easy. As it was (Sunday), it’s going to be a dog fight every week,” coach Todd Bowles said after Sunday’s 26-23 overtime win at Carolina. “We got to clean up some things, we know that, but it's hard to win in this league,” the coach said of the mistake-filled victory that lifted the Bucs back to .500. “We’ll take a win any way we can get it.” After facing Las Vegas (2-10) this week, the Bucs will finish with road games against the Los Angeles Chargers (8-4) and Dallas Cowboys (5-7), followed by home dates vs. Carolina (3-9) and the New Orleans Saints (4-8). What’s working Kicker Chase McLaughlin has been one of team’s most consistent performers, converting 21 of 23 field goal attempts. He was 4 of 5 against the Panthers, including 51-yarder to force overtime on the final play of regulation. He missed from 55 yards in OT before winning it with a 30-yard field goal on Tampa Bay’s next possession. What needs help Just when it appeared the defense was beginning to trend in the right direction, Carolina's Bryce Young threw for 298 yards without an interception against the Bucs in one of his better outings of the season. “In the first half, he did it with his feet and the second half he did it with his arm,” Bowles said. Stock up Running back Bucky Irving rushed for a career-best 152 yards and finished with 185 from scrimmage against Carolina, making him the first rookie since Miles Sanders in 2019 to have consecutive games with 150-plus yards from scrimmage. Stock down A week after playing well offensively and defensively in a 23-point rout of the New York Giants, the Bucs were sloppy against the Panthers. In addition to throwing two interceptions, Mayfield was sacked four times. Tampa Bay was penalized seven times for 54 yards, and the defense was only able to sack Young once. Injuries Mayfield (sore leg), linebacker K.J. Britt (sprained ankle) and safety Mike Edwards (hamstring) will be on the injury report this week. Bowles said he’s not sure what Mayfield's practice status will be when the team reconvenes Wednesday, however he expects the quarterback to play Sunday. Key numbers 37 and 101 — Wide receiver Mike Evans had another big day against Carolina, posting the 37th 100-yard receiving performance of his career — fifth among active players. He also moved ahead of Hall of Famers Steve Largent and Tim Brown for sole possession of ninth place on the all-time list for TD receptions with 101. Next steps The Buccaneers host Las Vegas in Tampa Bay's first home game in a month and the third consecutive outing against a last-place team. The Raiders (2-10) have lost eight in a row. ___ NFL: https://apnews.com/hub/nfl Fred Goodall, The Associated PressNEW YORK, Dec. 02, 2024 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) -- Mesoblast Limited (Nasdaq:MESO; ASX:MSB), global leader in allogeneic cellular medicines for inflammatory diseases, today announced a key publication in the November 2024 online issue of the prestigious peer-reviewed European Journal of Heart Failure (EJHF) , which reports that a single intramyocardial injection of the Company’s allogeneic cell therapy Revascor ® (rexlemestrocel-L) results in improved survival in high-risk patients with ischemic heart failure and inflammation. 1 Results from the randomized, controlled DREAM-HF trial in patients with chronic heart failure with reduced ejection fraction (HFrEF) identified the control group at highest risk of cardiovascular death as being those with ischemic etiology and inflammation and showed that a single intramyocardial injection of Mesoblast’s mesenchymal precursor cell therapy (MPCs; rexlemestrocel-L) resulted in a sustained reduction in cardiovascular mortality in these high-risk patients. This identifies the target HFrEF population that is responsive to REVASCOR therapy. DREAM-HF’s lead investigator, Dr. Emerson C. Perin, MD, PhD, FACC, Medical Director at The Texas Heart Institute, said, “Mesoblast’s allogeneic MPCs may restore the balance between anti-inflammatory and pro-inflammatory cytokines in the damaged, inflamed heart. A single administration of MPCs appears sufficient to improve survival and other major clinical outcomes in high-risk HFrEF patients with inflammation. These effects are seen on top of existing treatments that target neurohormonal imbalances and congestion, providing a disease-modifying approach not achievable with standard-of-care alone.” The newly published results showed that over a mean follow-up of 30 months in the DREAM-HF trial: Factors portending the greatest risk for cardiovascular death in control patients were inflammation (baseline plasma high-sensitivity C-reactive protein ≥2 mg/L; p=0.003) and ischemic HFrEF etiology (p=0.097), with increased cardiovascular death risk of 61% and 38%, respectively. A single intra-myocardial MPC administration significantly lowered the risk of cardiovascular death in HFrEF patients with inflammation regardless of whether plasma hsCRP or plasma IL-6 was used as inflammatory biomarker by 80% (p=0.003) and 60% (p=0.037) respectively. MPCs reduced 2-point MACE (heart attack or stroke) by 57% (p=0.016) and 3-point MACE (cardiovascular death, heart attack, stroke) by 35% (p=0.049) in patients with ischemic HFrEF (n=303) compared to controls. MPCs reduced 2-point and 3-point MACE by 88% (p=0.005) and 52% (p=0.018) respectively, in patients with ischemic HFrEF and inflammation (n=158) compared to controls. “We are pursuing potential approval pathways for our STRO3-immunoselected and industrially manufactured heart failure product REVASCOR across the continuum from pediatric congenital heart disease to adults with ischemic HFrEF,” said Mesoblast Chief Executive Dr. Silviu Itescu. “Earlier this year we received feedback from the U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA) providing support for an accelerated approval pathway in end-stage ischemic HFrEF patients with a left ventricular assist device (LVAD). This new publication identifies the larger ischemic HFrEF population which responds to REVASCOR with mortality benefit.” About Revascor ® (rexlemestrocel-L) in Heart Disease REVASCOR is an allogeneic preparation of immunoselected and culture-expanded mesenchymal precursor cells (MPC) and is being developed as an immunomodulatory therapy to address the high degree of inflammation in the heart and cardiovascular system that is present across the spectrum of HFrEF patients ranging from New York Heart Association (NYHA) class II through end-stage disease, in order to reduce the high rate of major cardiovascular events and complications. This investigational therapy has been evaluated in two large placebo-controlled randomized studies in patients with chronic HFrEF. These consisted of a trial with 537 NYHA class II/III treated patients (DREAM-HF) 2 and a 159-patient trial in end-stage HFrEF patients implanted with a left ventricular assist device (LVAD). Rexlemestrocel-L has US Food and Drug Administration (FDA) Regenerative Medicine Advanced Therapy (RMAT) and Orphan Drug designations for patients with end-stage HFrEF implanted with an LVAD. About Chronic Heart Failure Chronic heart failure (CHF) is characterized by poor heart function resulting in insufficient blood flow to the body’s vital organs and extremities. This condition affects approximately 6.5 million people in the United States and 26 million people globally with increasing prevalence and incidence. Chronic heart failure patients are commonly classified according to the New York Heart Association (NYHA) categories based on the patient’s physical limitations. Class I (mild) patients have no limitations while Class IV patients (severe/end stage) experience symptoms even at rest. The mortality rate approaches 50% at 5 years as patients progress beyond NYHA early class II disease in parallel with increasing inflammation in the heart and in the circulation. 3,4 Despite recent approvals of new therapies for HFrEF, NYHA class II/III HFrEF patients with inflammation remain at high risk for cardiovascular death, heart attacks and strokes. Over 100,000 patients annually in the US progress to end-stage heart failure (NYHA class IIIB/IV). These patients have a one-year mortality exceeding 50%. 5 Use of LVADs in end-stage heart failure patients to improve survival is gaining momentum, with approximately 2,000 LVADs implanted as destination therapy annually in the US, 6 the majority of whom have an ischemic etiology. About Mesoblast Mesoblast (the Company) is a world leader in developing allogeneic (off-the-shelf) cellular medicines for the treatment of severe and life-threatening inflammatory conditions. The Company has leveraged its proprietary mesenchymal lineage cell therapy technology platform to establish a broad portfolio of late-stage product candidates which respond to severe inflammation by releasing anti-inflammatory factors that counter and modulate multiple effector arms of the immune system, resulting in significant reduction of the damaging inflammatory process. Mesoblast has a strong and extensive global intellectual property portfolio with protection extending through to at least 2041 in all major markets. The Company’s proprietary manufacturing processes yield industrial-scale, cryopreserved, off-the-shelf, cellular medicines. These cell therapies, with defined pharmaceutical release criteria, are planned to be readily available to patients worldwide. Mesoblast is developing product candidates for distinct indications based on its remestemcel-L and rexlemestrocel-L allogeneic stromal cell technology platforms. Remestemcel-L is being developed for inflammatory diseases in children and adults including steroid refractory acute graft versus host disease, and biologic-resistant inflammatory bowel disease. Rexlemestrocel-L is being developed for advanced chronic heart failure and chronic low back pain. Two products have been commercialized in Japan and Europe by Mesoblast’s licensees, and the Company has established commercial partnerships in Europe and China for certain Phase 3 assets. Mesoblast has locations in Australia, the United States and Singapore and is listed on the Australian Securities Exchange (MSB) and on the Nasdaq (MESO). For more information, please see www.mesoblast.com , LinkedIn: Mesoblast Limited and Twitter: @Mesoblast References / Footnotes Perin EC. Et al. Mesenchymal precursor cells reduce mortality and major morbidity in ischaemic heart failure with inflammation: DREAM-HF. Eur J Heart Fail 2024. https://doi.org/10.1002/ejhf.3522 Perin EC. Et al. Randomized Trial of Targeted Transendocardial Mesenchymal Precursor Cell Therapy in Patients with Heart Failure. JACC Vol. 81, No. 9, 2023. https://doi.org/10.1016/j.jacc.2022.11.061 AHA’s 2017 Heart Disease and Stroke Statistics Ponikowski P., et al. Heart Failure: Preventing disease and death worldwide. European Society of Cardiology . 2014; 1: 4-25 Gustafsson F, Rogers JG. Left ventricular assist device therapy in advanced heart failure: patient selection and outcomes. European Journal of Heart Failure 2017;19:595-602. Yuzefpolskaya M et al. Ann Thorac Surg 2023; 115:311-28 Forward-Looking Statements This press release includes forward-looking statements that relate to future events or our future financial performance and involve known and unknown risks, uncertainties and other factors that may cause our actual results, levels of activity, performance or achievements to differ materially from any future results, levels of activity, performance or achievements expressed or implied by these forward-looking statements. We make such forward-looking statements pursuant to the safe harbor provisions of the Private Securities Litigation Reform Act of 1995 and other federal securities laws. Forward-looking statements should not be read as a guarantee of future performance or results, and actual results may differ from the results anticipated in these forward-looking statements, and the differences may be material and adverse. Forward-looking statements include, but are not limited to, statements about: the initiation, timing, progress and results of Mesoblast’s preclinical and clinical studies, and Mesoblast’s research and development programs; Mesoblast’s ability to advance product candidates into, enroll and successfully complete, clinical studies, including multi-national clinical trials; Mesoblast’s ability to advance its manufacturing capabilities; the timing or likelihood of regulatory filings and approvals (including any future decision that the FDA may make on the BLA for remestemcel-L for pediatric patients with SR-aGVHD), manufacturing activities and product marketing activities, if any; the commercialization of Mesoblast’s product candidates, if approved; regulatory or public perceptions and market acceptance surrounding the use of stem-cell based therapies; the potential for Mesoblast’s product candidates, if any are approved, to be withdrawn from the market due to patient adverse events or deaths; the potential benefits of strategic collaboration agreements and Mesoblast’s ability to enter into and maintain established strategic collaborations; Mesoblast’s ability to establish and maintain intellectual property on its product candidates and Mesoblast’s ability to successfully defend these in cases of alleged infringement; the scope of protection Mesoblast is able to establish and maintain for intellectual property rights covering its product candidates and technology; estimates of Mesoblast’s expenses, future revenues, capital requirements and its needs for additional financing; Mesoblast’s financial performance; developments relating to Mesoblast’s competitors and industry; and the pricing and reimbursement of Mesoblast’s product candidates, if approved. You should read this press release together with our risk factors, in our most recently filed reports with the SEC or on our website. Uncertainties and risks that may cause Mesoblast’s actual results, performance or achievements to be materially different from those which may be expressed or implied by such statements, and accordingly, you should not place undue reliance on these forward-looking statements. We do not undertake any obligations to publicly update or revise any forward-looking statements, whether as a result of new information, future developments or otherwise. Release authorized by the Chief Executive. For more information, please contact:CrowdStrike Earnings Beat. Cybersecurity Firm's Quarterly Revenue Tops $1 Billion.
Israel and Lebanon's Hezbollah agree to a ceasefire to end nearly 14 months of fighting
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