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6 of 234 RALEIGH, N.C. (AP) — CNN wants a court to dismiss a defamation lawsuit filed by North Carolina Republican Lt. Gov. Mark Robinson that attacks its report that he made explicit posts on a pornography website’s message board. The network says Robinson presented no evidence that the network believed its story was false or aired it recklessly. The September report says Robinson, who ran unsuccessfully for governor this month, left statements over a decade ago on the message board in which, in part, he referred to himself as a “black NAZI" and said he enjoyed transgender pornography. The report also says he preferred Adolf Hitler to then-President Barack Obama and slammed the Rev. Martin Luther King Jr. as “worse than a maggot.” Robinson, who was seeking to become the state's first Black governor, said he didn’t write those posts and sued in October, just before early in-person voting was to begin. While filing a dismissal motion Thursday in Raleigh federal court, attorneys for CNN said Robinson’s arguments suggesting he was the likely victim of a computer hacking operation that created fake messages would require a series of events that is not just “implausible, it is ridiculous.” Generally speaking, a public official claiming defamation must show a defendant knew a statement it made was false or did so with reckless disregard for the truth. “Robinson did not and cannot plausibly allege facts that show that CNN published the Article with actual malice,” attorney Mark Nebrig wrote in a memo backing the dismissal motion, adding that the lawsuit “does not include a single allegation demonstrating that CNN doubted the veracity of its reporting.” For Robinson, who already had a history of inflammatory comments about topics like abortion and LGBTQ+ rights , the CNN story nearly led to the collapse of his campaign. After the report's airing, most of his top campaign staff quit, advertising from the Republican Governors Association stopped and fellow Republicans distanced themselves from him, including President-elect Donald Trump. Robinson lost to Democratic Attorney General Josh Stein by nearly 15 points and will leave office at year-end. Robinson's lawsuit was initially filed in state court. It says, in part, that CNN chose to run its report based on data from the website NudeAfrica, which had been hacked several years ago and ran on vulnerable, outdated software. His suit claims the network did nothing to verify the posts. He's seeking monetary damages. Thursday's memo highlights the network's story, including a section where the CNN journalists showed how they connected Robinson to a username on the NudeAfrica site. As the CNN story said previously, the memo says the network matched details of the account on the message board to other online accounts held by Robinson by comparing usernames, an email address and his full name. The details discussed by the account holder matched Robinson’s length of marriage, where he lived at the time, and that both Robinson and the account holder had mothers who worked at a historically Black university, the memo says. CNN also said it found matches of figures of speech used by both the NudeAfrica account holder and in Robinson’s social media posts. “This is hardly a case where, as Robinson alleges, CNN ‘disregarded or deliberately avoided the truth’ rather than investigate,” Nebrig said, adding later that the network “had no reason to seriously doubt that Robinson was the author” of the posts. Robinson's attorneys didn't immediately respond to an email Friday seeking comment. The lawsuit says anyone could have used Robinson's breached data to create accounts on the internet. His state lawsuit also sued Louis Love Money, a former porn shop worker who alleged in a music video and a media interview that for several years starting in the 1990s, Robinson frequented a porn shop where Money was working and that Robinson purchased porn videos from him. Robinson said that was untrue. Money filed his own dismissal motion in the state lawsuit. But since then, CNN moved the lawsuit to federal court, saying that it's the proper venue for a North Carolina resident like Robinson and a Georgia-based company like CNN and that the claims against Money are unrelated.

Sprott Focus Trust, Inc. (Nasdaq-FUND) Declares Fourth Quarter Common Stock Distribution of ...The recent developments surrounding the potential cooperation with the "Syrian Democratic Forces" (SDF) and the discussions regarding de-designating certain groups as terrorist organizations have caused a stir in the international community. The U.S. government's stance on these issues has been closely scrutinized, with many questioning the implications of such decisions on the ongoing conflict in Syria.

In response to the recent blue alert issued for blizzards in Gansu Province, the Gansu Transportation Department has taken proactive measures to ensure the safety and smooth operation of transportation systems in the region. With temperatures expected to plunge to record lows and heavy snowfall predicted, the department has enacted a comprehensive low-temperature defense plan to mitigate the impact of the severe weather conditions on roads, railways, and airports.The act of Xiang Zuo cutting Xiaohua's hair symbolizes more than just a physical transformation. It represents a moment of vulnerability and trust between friends, where one person selflessly gives of their time and skills to uplift another. It speaks to the essence of true friendship - being there for each other in times of need, offering a listening ear, and showing support in ways that go beyond material wealth or status.Arkansas WR Andrew Armstrong declares for NFL draft, skipping bowl

With nothing to showcase to the world and nothing to brag about in the island, Sri Lankan Olympic officials running what is known as the NOC are displaying a kind of intransigence that separates the country from the rest of the world and earning it near pariah status that can snowball into an outcast. With only one medal in 75 years, Sri Lanka has been a spoilt brat both international and domestically securing both millions in overseas funding and political succor at home until the International Olympic Committee (IOC) put its feet down that enough is enough as it called for the ouster of NOC secretary Maxwell de Silva while six others have been accused of scrounging. De Silva was ordered by the NOC’s Ethics Committee to step down more than two months ago but his stubbornness has made the country’s Olympic head Suresh Subramanium a mere puppet. But it took the IOC ten months to step in after the Sri Lankan Parliament branded the NOC the country’s “most corrupt” organization a year after the Legislature drew the same reference to cricket. In his branding of the NOC, Member of Parliament Chaminda Mayadunne accused its officials of involvement in human smuggling as well as taking custody of international funding meant for the welfare of athletes. Mayadunne, among other accusations, claimed in Parliament that one of the athletes deprived of funding welfare was Olympic sprinter Yupun Abeykoon while the country’s only Olympic medallist in 75 years, Susanthika Jayasinghe was non-existent to the NOC. Mayadunne backed his charges with an Audit Report of December 2022 that he said clearly documents the NOC as “the most corrupt”. He claimed the Audit Report was swept under the carpet and charged that NOC officials were responsible for the decamping of a wrestling official and judo official during the Commonwealth Games in Birmingham, England in 2022. In what was a scathing revelation, Mayadunne alleged the NOC also took custody of payments doled out by the Sports Ministry for the Rio Olympics in 2016. Former Sports Minister Roshan Ranasinghe last year fired a letter to the Olympic Council of Asia (OCA) highlighting several misdeeds taking place in the NOC that made all authorities in the country look mere onlookers. An NOC official told the Sunday Observer that De Silva’s intransigence has made him “the most powerful sports official in the country”.

One of the key factors contributing to the growing popularity of China among South Koreans is the rich history and diverse attractions the country has to offer. From the majestic Great Wall to the bustling streets of Shanghai, there is no shortage of iconic landmarks and experiences that appeal to the adventurous spirit of South Korean travelers. Additionally, the deep-rooted cultural connections between the two countries, such as shared traditions in art, cuisine, and language, create a sense of familiarity and comfort for South Koreans exploring China.Mayor Brandon Johnson on Tuesday debuted a new goal for Chicago: fewer than 500 homicides next year. Johnson floated the benchmark — which has not been achieved since 2015 — during a City Club of Chicago speech, after noting this year’s drop in homicides and shootings. The mayor’s remarks to the lunch crowd of business types and politicos also leaned heavily on his racial identity and faith as he sought to recast the narrative on his rocky year-and-a-half leading the nation’s third-largest city. Chicago homicides in 2024: 532 people slain. Here’s how that compares with previous years. “Yes, we have work to do, but in 2025 we have the opportunity for the first time in over a decade to have less than 500 homicides,” Johnson said. “We have an opportunity for less life to be lost if we actually put in the hard work, roll up our sleeves, and not allow the narrative that comes from the outside to determine who we are as a city. ... We are Chicago. We have come through some of the most treacherous times, and we have been trendsetters from our inception.” The first-term mayor would repeatedly refer to his underdog brand in describing his tenure. He touted early legislative victories on progressive, pro-labor policies such as expanding mandatory paid time off for Chicago workers. He praised his administration’s work in beefing up the city’s youth summer jobs program, reopening mental health clinics and housing up to 15,000 migrants during the height of the asylum-seeker crisis. But Johnson’s speech came during an unusually fraught budget season , one that saw him first delay the final vote on the spending plan from the beginning of November to this week — only to push back the date once again to mid-December as resistance from aldermen swelled. He brushed aside the concerns Tuesday by saying, “There has never been a more transparent and open process during this budget cycle.” The event also took place amid ongoing controversy surrounding his former communications chief and longtime friend, Ronnie Reese. Questions from the City Club audience did not touch upon the accusations surrounding Reese’s alleged harassment, sexism, racism and other abusive behavior. In his speech Johnson cracked jokes about the pressures of the office by noting his goatee had grayed, but he also stuck to his signature religious imagery to illustrate how he views the weight of his mayorship. He described himself as a “righteous man in office” and referenced a Bible verse on guiding young people when discussing his commitments to Chicago’s youth. He again endorsed Chicago Bears CEO Kevin Warren’s nearly $5 billion plan to build a stadium on a revamped lakefront next to Soldier Field that would be partially taxpayer-funded. That bid has seen staunch resistance in Springfield, which would need to approve the package. But Johnson on Tuesday argued the $2 billion the franchise pledged to contribute would pay dividends for the city, which still owes outstanding debt on the current stadium. “I’m not saying that I’m Jesus the Christ. I’m just saying that we have solved for a couple things,” the mayor said after his latest pitch for the proposal. “If you have a better plan than that, see my senior adviser, Jason Lee.” The mayor repeatedly drew attention to his racial identity as well, declaring: “Now, I’m going to say something about our young Black men that many people are not accustomed to hearing: I love them. ... We will not demonize all Black men.” Mayor Brandon Johnson talks with Dan Gibbons, CEO of the City Club of Chicago, on Dec. 3, 2024. (Brian Cassella/Chicago Tribune) He also sought to connect his two political bases — progressive and Black voters — by sharing a story of his daughter Braedyn once informing him, “Dad, you’re triggering me.” Her use of “triggered,” a mental health term popularized over the recent decade to describe a response to past trauma, was brought up by Johnson as he touted his administration’s investments in mental health services, such as reopening three new clinics this year. “There were times I had to fight to make sure I don’t lose my Black card. That was a tough one for me,” Johnson quipped. After the City Club moderator compared that dynamic to the mayor’s media interactions, Johnson added: “They certainly know I’m Black in the press.” Meanwhile, the mayor’s objective of seeing fewer than 500 homicides comes as the city has seen a downward trend in gun violence since 2022. As of last week, 532 people were slain in the city in 2024. A total of 617 homicides were recorded through 2023. Though this ongoing drop started before Johnson took office last year, the promising direction of the city’s crime statistics could present an achievable goal for him to claim progress when it comes to Chicago’s perennially stubborn gun violence epidemic. The last time Chicago recorded fewer than 500 homicides was 2015, at 493, according to city violence data. Chicago in 2021 saw the highest number of shootings and homicides in a quarter-century as cities across the U.S. grappled with the fallout of the COVID-19 pandemic and the police murder of George Floyd. That spike in violence contributed to former Mayor Lori Lightfoot losing her run for a second term last year, though it is debatable among experts how effectively and swiftly a mayor can truly influence crime trends. If Johnson was rattled by the headwinds, however, he did not show it as he told the City Club audience he intends to come back to speak for the next 20 years. “It didn’t work, you all,” Johnson said as he closed his speech by taking a shot at his predecessors’ styles. “You know how I know? Because I’m here. If the other way worked, the city of Chicago would not have elected me. ... Let’s do it another way. And let’s make sure that Braedyn can vote for me in 2031.”OTTAWA—The RCMP says it has “contingency plans” to deploy more Mounties to the Canada-U.S. border but needs answers from the Liberal government about how much more it intends to spend on additional drones, helicopters or other technology to surveil it. The Trudeau government says it has not yet “finalized” those decisions as it fended off Opposition criticism it is too slow to act to counter incoming president Donald Trump’s threat of 25 per cent tariffs on Canadian products on his first day in office. RCMP Comm. Michael Duheme told reporters there are two “parallel” tracks to the Mounties’ plans — one contingent on how many illegal immigrants might be “removed” from America by an incoming Trump administration and drive a northward surge into Canada, and the other contingent on how much new technology the Liberal government will fund. Speaking after he testified at a public safety committee, the top Mountie said he is not opposed to expanding the Canada Border Services Agency (CBSA) mandate into the RCMP’s jurisdiction over territory between official border points of entry, as the border guards’ union has called for. “I think we have to do what’s right, to secure the borders. So if that’s increasing authorities to CBSA, I mean, that’s a discussion I would have” with the head of the CBSA and the government, Duheme said. He said it would be a “longer-term” move, “but I think we have to explore different ways of doing things.” Meanwhile, Duheme said the RCMP needs the “nimbleness” to reassign resources where needed, and he will deploy cadets from the RCMP training academy in Regina — as the national police force did in 2014 to provide additional security following the Parliament Hill attacks. “What you saw in Roxham Road (where migrants crossed illegally near Lacolle, Que.) may not repeat itself,” said Duheme. “It might come somewhere else, right? So that’s one thing, but on the parallel track is the planning a way forward with the asks that we’ve put in ... and the resources required to do it.” Defence Minister Bill Blair told the Star Monday night that Canadian Forces may be able to supply surveillance drones and other technological aids, but that soldiers would not be deployed to the border. Prime Minister Justin Trudeau, Public Safety Minister Dominic LeBlanc and Chrystia Freeland — who co-chairs the Canada-U.S. cabinet committee — met with Opposition leaders Tuesday to brief them on the government’s work to address the Trump threat, and on Trudeau’s and LeBlanc’s trip to Trump’s resort at Mar-a-Lago on Friday. Trudeau and LeBlanc discussed trade and the border over dinner with the president-elect at his Freeland later said she was not upset at not being included on the trip, and said “it was the right choice. The meeting was principally about the border. That is what was very clear from the conversation that the prime minister had with the president ahead of time.” Freeland called for a “Team Canada” approach to dealing with Trump, repeating a message she delivered to premiers last week, that it is “important for us to take care not to negotiate against ourselves.” However, when Trudeau’s Commons opponents emerged, they did not offer full-throated support for his efforts. Conservative Leader Pierre Poilievre said he would take a “Canada first” approach,” stress the harm that tariffs would have on Canada and the U.S. and he put the blame for Canada’s problems with Trump squarely at Trudeau’s feet, a line of attack he continued in the Commons. “Whether one thinks that President Trump’s tariff threats are a negotiating tactic or a real plan, what we do know is what we can control. The prime minister has lost control of everything” including borders and control of immigration, he said. Poilievre said Trudeau is an unpopular leader in an “unbearably weak position” to counter Trump, and demanded an election to replace him. Trudeau in the Commons replied that Poilievre should guard against repeating “erroneous narratives that the Americans are putting forward,” saying amplifying “these ‘broken’ narratives is simply not responsible leadership.” New Democrat Jagmeet Singh said he told Trudeau in the meeting that he pressed Trudeau to hire “at a minimum” 1,100 more border guards. That’s a lot fewer than the union says are needed. Erin O’Gorman, head of the border agency, told MPs the CBSA currently has 16,300 full time employees, 8,500 of whom are front-line employees, compared to 13,700 it had in 2014 when the Conservatives were in power. However, the Customs and Immigration Union says only 6,500 are considered front-line employees, including those who work not just at land border points of entry, but at airports and who enforce customs laws at postal facilities. Union head Mark Weber, in an interview with the Star, said the union has called for an additional 2,000-3,000 front-line officers, and was encouraged by LeBlanc’s testimony that showed an “openness” to expanding the role played by border guards to include patrolling in between official points of entry with the RCMP. Weber reiterated in a letter to LeBlanc Monday the union’s request to the Liberal government to review a 1932 cabinet order that directed the RCMP to cover border areas between official ports of entry while leaving the official points of entry to border officers. ” LeBlanc told MPs Tuesday that the government is “interested in taking immediate steps that will reassure Canadians and the Americans that the border remains secure and the integrity of the border is protected ... We haven’t made any decisions in that regard. But are open to considering that as well.” Bloc Québécois Leader Yves-François Blanchet said that the Liberals did not offer details, but seem to have a plan in the works. “We’ll see what it contains,” he said. “I don’t want to fight too much publicly about an issue which is very important for everybody, both in Canada and Quebec and Americans are looking at us now. So I will give some time to Mr. LeBlanc to provide us with the details of the plan.” Former Conservative leader Rona Ambrose in a CBC interview Tuesday said, “look, I think it’s easy to say everyone should be on Team Canada, but that doesn’t mean Team Trudeau.” Ambrose, who previously sat on Trudeau’s NAFTA advisory council, said Poilievre and Singh would all argue they are on Team Canada, but that they also have legitimate criticisms to make of how Trudeau has not positioned Canada’s economy to withstand Trump’s threats and the moves he will make to draw investors and capital away from Canada to the United States.

Grace Clinton’s star is fast rising, her guile and skill undeniable after a season-long loan with Tottenham last year and a blistering impact in Manchester United’s starting XI since September. At a bitterly cold Bramall Lane on Tuesday night those talents were on display once more in England’s 1-0 win, but another characteristic was also on show: she is a leader. In Sarina Wiegman’s B team – only Jess Park kept her place following the 0-0 friendly draw with the USA on Saturday – Clinton played conductor. Making her fifth appearance for the senior side, the 21-year-old was the sixth most-capped player in the experimental team – with only Millie Bright, on 84 caps, Esme Morgan and Hannah Hampton on 10 and Park on 12 in double figures – for the starting Lionesses in Sheffield. But it was Clinton who was the dictator, a dynamic sun around which her teammates orbited, always there to collect and send on. When England had possession Clinton wanted the ball, arm raised regularly, calling for the pass; when she could see the better option elsewhere, she would point to where it should go or to whom should go; if she wanted it into her feet she would gesture with both hands towards the floor. That level of leadership from one of the most critical creative areas of the pitch is exciting, and unusual in someone so young and inexperienced at the top level. England don’t need depth in the No 10 position in theory but in practice they are light. Their Euro 2022 mainstay Fran Kirby is grappling with injury again following the game against the USA and Ella Toone and Lauren James are nursing calf injuries, the latter kept out for the last two international camps, and Clinton could be the answer, her onfield direction distinguishing her from her peers in the role. In that respect, it was disappointing not to see the United player be handed the chance to test the budding relationships with England’s more senior players at Wembley on Saturday. Park was afforded that honour, before making way for Kirby. When asked about Clinton’s surprising leadership for someone her age, Wiegman said that, in the first half in particular, it was due to her and the majority of the team feeling “very comfortable”, bar a few newer players who were “finding their feet”. “How we got in the pockets with players close to her felt really comfortable,” she said. “That was really good to see. What I would like to see more from her is that she is overseeing things even when the phase of the game is faster than it was tonight, but you can see she is on her way and improving.” That it was the Liverpool‐born midfielder who broke the deadlock to score England’s only goal across the camp was fitting, a statement of just how important a player she is becoming for now as much as for the future. That she was alert to the rebound, after Millie Turner had headed Park’s cross off the post to fire into the roof of the net, reflected the confidence with which she is playing. It was also her third goal in five games for the Lionesses and, although they failed to extend their lead, her link-up play with Aggie Beever-Jones was a highlight of a somewhat patchy match overall – to be expected with 10 changes and so few caps on the pitch. Sign up to Moving the Goalposts No topic is too small or too big for us to cover as we deliver a twice-weekly roundup of the wonderful world of women’s football after newsletter promotion Wiegman said that Clinton still “has to do a couple of things”, adding that the next step for the young midfielder is “to get into the squad more often and get consistency – but I was happy, and you can really tell she is developing”. She is building that consistency. She already has three goals in eight games for United, slotting comfortably into the midfield. Last season she scored four in 20 games when on loan at Tottenham. The Beatles’ Revolution and Oasis’s Half the World Away show that it’s possible for a B side to outshine its A side but with as many changes as here, there was little chance of Wiegman’s second string doing that across the board at Bramall Lane. However, Clinton is the outlier, the player who looks ready for the main stage and ready to grab her chance to get a coveted place in the squad for Euro 2025 in Switzerland. In the new year, the prospect of the increasing integration of Clinton into the starting XI is an exciting one.The Premier League title race is heating up as the season progresses, with several top teams vying for the coveted trophy. Renowned football pundit, Ximan, recently shared his insights on the competition, highlighting the four teams he believes are the true contenders for the title. Among them, Manchester City undoubtedly features prominently as one of the frontrunners in the race for English football supremacy.

Changan UNI-Z, Geely Xingyue L7, and GAC Trumpchi E-Pro are three Chinese automakers that have been making waves in the plug-in hybrid segment with their respective models. Each of these vehicles boasts a unique set of features and capabilities, but the question remains: which one of them has the most advanced plug-in hybrid system?

Kroger Reiterates Its Commitment to Lower Prices and Initiates New $7.5B Share Buyback ProgramReiterates Commitment to Investing in America to Lower Grocery Prices, Raise Associate Wages, and Support Local Communities Highlights Resilience of Value Creation Model and Strong Momentum to Drive Long-term, Sustainable Growth Board of Directors Authorizes $7.5B Share Repurchase Program including $5B Accelerated Share Repurchase CINCINNATI , Dec. 11, 2024 /PRNewswire/ -- The Kroger Co. (NYSE: KR) today terminated its merger agreement with Albertsons after the U.S. District Court for the District of Oregon granted the Federal Trade Commission's request for a preliminary injunction to block the proposed merger. After reviewing options, the company determined it is no longer in its best interests to pursue the merger. "Kroger is moving forward from a position of strength. Our go-to-market strategy provides exceptional value and unique omnichannel experiences to our customers which powers our value creation model. We look forward to accelerating our flywheel to grow our alternative profit businesses and generate increased cash flows. The strength of our balance sheet and sustainability of our model allows us to pursue a variety of growth opportunities, including further investment in our store network through new stores and remodels, which will be an important part of our 8 – 11% TSR model over time," said Rodney McMullen , Kroger's Chairman and CEO. America's Grocer is Committed to Lowering Grocery Prices & Investing in Associates "Kroger has an extraordinary track record of investing in America," said McMullen. "We are at our best when we serve others – our customers, associates, and communities – and we take seriously our responsibility to provide great value by consistently lowering prices and offering more choices. When we do this, more customers shop with us and buy more groceries, which allows us to reinvest in even lower prices, a better shopping experience and higher wages. We know this model works because we've been doing it successfully for many years, and this is exactly what we will continue to do." Kroger's ongoing investments in America include: "I appreciate our associates who remained focused on taking care of our customers, communities and each other throughout the merger process," added McMullen. Share Repurchase Program Including Accelerated Share Repurchases Now that Kroger has terminated the merger agreement, the company is ready to deploy its capacity. With its strengthened balance sheet, Kroger will resume share repurchases after a more than two-year pause. Since announcing the merger, Kroger used its strong free cash flow and debt financing to build meaningful balance sheet capacity while maintaining its investment-grade rating. Kroger's Board of Directors approved a new share repurchase program authorizing the repurchase of up to $7.5 billion of common stock. The new repurchase authorization replaces Kroger's existing $1 billion authorization which was approved in September 2022 . Kroger intends to enter an accelerated share repurchase ("ASR") agreement for the repurchase of approximately $5 billion of common stock. "Our strong balance sheet and free cash flows position us to deliver on our commitment to grow the business and return capital to shareholders, maintaining capacity to invest in lower prices and higher associate wages," McMullen said. Kroger expects to continue to generate strong free cash flow and remains committed to its capital allocation priorities including maintaining its current investment grade debt rating, investing in the business to drive long-term sustainable net earnings growth, and returning excess free cash flow to shareholders via share repurchases and a growing dividend over time, subject to board approval. Looking forward, Kroger plans to host an Investor Day event in late spring of 2025 to share an update on its strategic priorities, future growth prospects and long-term financial outlook. Merger Debt Redemption In connection with the termination of the merger agreement, Kroger will begin the process of redeeming the $4.7 billion of its senior notes issued on August 27, 2024 , that include a special mandatory redemption provision in accordance with their terms. The notes will be redeemed at a redemption price equal to 101% of their principal amount, plus accrued and unpaid interest to, but excluding, the special mandatory redemption date. Termination of Exchange Offers In connection with the termination of the merger agreement, Kroger has also elected to terminate its previously announced offers to exchange (collectively, the "Exchange Offers") any and all outstanding notes (the "ACI Notes") issued by Albertsons Companies, Inc., New Albertsons, L.P., Safeway Inc., Albertson's LLC, Albertsons Safeway LLC and American Stores Company, LLC (collectively, the "ACI Issuing Entities"), for up to $7,441,608,000 aggregate principal amount of new notes to be issued by Kroger and cash. Kroger has also elected to terminate the related solicitation of consents (the "Consent Solicitation" and, together with the Exchange Offer, the "Exchange Offer and Consent Solicitation") on behalf of the ACI Issuing Entities to adopt certain proposed amendments to the indentures governing the ACI Notes (the "ACI Indentures"). As a result of the Exchange Offer being terminated, the total consideration, including any consent fee, will not be paid or become payable to holders of the ACI Notes who have validly tendered and not validly withdrawn their ACI Notes for exchange in the Exchange Offer, and the ACI Notes validly tendered and not validly withdrawn for exchange pursuant to the Exchange Offer will be promptly returned to the tendering holders. As a result of the Consent Solicitation being terminated, the proposed amendments to the ACI Indentures and the supplemental indentures previously entered into reflecting such proposed amendments will not become operative. About the Exchange Offers Global Bondholder Services Corporation served as exchange agent and information agent for the now terminated Exchange Offer and Consent Solicitation. You should direct questions and requests for assistance to Global Bondholder Services Corporation at (855) 654-2015 (toll-free) or (212) 430-3774 (banks and brokers), or by email at contact@gbsc-usa.com . About Kroger At The Kroger Co. (NYSE: KR), we are dedicated to our Purpose: to Feed the Human SpiritTM. We are, across our family of companies nearly 414,000 associates who serve over eleven million customers daily through a seamless digital shopping experience and retail food stores under a variety of banner names , serving America through food inspiration and uplift, and creating #ZeroHungerZeroWaste communities. To learn more about us, visit our newsroom and investor relations site. Forward Looking Statements This press release contains certain statements that constitute "forward-looking statements" about Kroger's financial position and the future performance of the company. These statements are based on management's assumptions and beliefs in light of the information currently available to it. Such statements are indicated by words or phrases such as "achieve," "committed," "confidence," "continue," "deliver," "expect," "future," "guidance," "model," "outlook," "strategy," "target," "trends," "well-positioned," and variations of such words and similar phrases. Various uncertainties and other factors could cause actual results to differ materially from those contained in the forward-looking statements. These include the specific risk factors identified in "Risk Factors" in our annual report on Form 10-K for our last fiscal year and any subsequent filings, as well as the following: Kroger's ability to achieve sales, earnings, incremental FIFO operating profit, and adjusted free cash flow goals may be affected by: the termination of the merger agreement and our proposed transaction with Albertsons and related divestiture plan; labor negotiations; potential work stoppages; changes in the unemployment rate; pressures in the labor market; changes in government-funded benefit programs; changes in the types and numbers of businesses that compete with Kroger; pricing and promotional activities of existing and new competitors, and the aggressiveness of that competition; Kroger's response to these actions; the state of the economy, including interest rates, the inflationary, disinflationary and/or deflationary trends and such trends in certain commodities, products and/or operating costs; the geopolitical environment including wars and conflicts; unstable political situations and social unrest; changes in tariffs; the effect that fuel costs have on consumer spending; volatility of fuel margins; manufacturing commodity costs; supply constraints; diesel fuel costs related to Kroger's logistics operations; trends in consumer spending; the extent to which Kroger's customers exercise caution in their purchasing in response to economic conditions; the uncertainty of economic growth or recession; stock repurchases; changes in the regulatory environment in which Kroger operates, along with changes in federal policy and at regulatory agencies; Kroger's ability to retain pharmacy sales from third party payors; consolidation in the healthcare industry, including pharmacy benefit managers; Kroger's ability to negotiate modifications to multi-employer pension plans; natural disasters or adverse weather conditions; the effect of public health crises or other significant catastrophic events; the potential costs and risks associated with potential cyber-attacks or data security breaches; the success of Kroger's future growth plans; the ability to execute our growth strategy and value creation model, including continued cost savings, growth of our alternative profit businesses, and our ability to better serve our customers and to generate customer loyalty and sustainable growth through our strategic pillars of fresh, our brands, personalization, and seamless; the successful integration of merged companies and new strategic collaborations; and the risks relating to or arising from our proposed nationwide opioid litigation settlement, including our ability to finalize and effectuate the settlement, the scope and coverage of the ultimate settlement and the expected financial or other impacts that could result from the settlement. Our ability to achieve these goals may also be affected by our ability to manage the factors identified above. Our ability to execute our financial strategy may be affected by our ability to generate cash flow. Kroger assumes no obligation to update the information contained herein unless required by applicable law. Please refer to Kroger's reports and filings with the Securities and Exchange Commission for a further discussion of these risks and uncertainties. View original content to download multimedia: https://www.prnewswire.com/news-releases/kroger-reiterates-its-commitment-to-lower-prices-and-initiates-new-7-5b-share-buyback-program-302329493.html SOURCE The Kroger Co.Lin Shidong Talks about the Hawkeye Challenge: Believe in Your Eyes, Teammates Help in Critical Moments

Critics from the opposition have also pointed out that the timing of the government's proposed immediate action coincides with a period of significant challenges and uncertainties facing the country. From economic recovery to social issues, national security to healthcare, there are pressing issues that require thoughtful consideration and comprehensive solutions. Rushing into action may not allow for the thorough analysis and careful planning needed to address these complex issues effectively.

In her statement, Xuan Xuan emphasized that the decision to take a break was a personal one and not directly related to the rumors surrounding her love life. She firmly denied any romantic involvement with the individual speculated to be her partner, stressing that her focus right now is on self-care and self-improvement.'Keep Christ in Christmas' sign taken down in downtown Kelowna

"Yan Yun's Sixteen Melodies" is a highly anticipated game that has captured the hearts of gamers with its rich story and engaging gameplay. With the release of the public beta version, players have been eagerly exploring the world of Yan Yun and immersing themselves in its enchanting narrative. However, as with any great adventure, there is always room for improvement. In response to player feedback and to elevate the overall gaming experience, the developers have introduced a series of enhancements to the game's plot. These changes are designed to deepen the immersion and emotional connection players feel with the characters and the world they inhabit.5. Paul Pogba (Manchester United): The French midfielder's future has been a topic of discussion for some time now. Will he commit his future to Manchester United or explore other options in Europe?Let's start with the Changan UNI-Z. The UNI-Z is a flagship model from Changan's new electric-focused sub-brand, UNI. It features a sophisticated plug-in hybrid powertrain that combines a turbocharged 1.5-liter gasoline engine with an electric motor. The total system output is an impressive 258 horsepower and 430 Nm of torque, allowing the UNI-Z to sprint from 0 to 100 km/h in just 6.3 seconds. The electric-only range is around 70 kilometers, making it suitable for short daily commutes.Title: Cloud Whale Intelligence CEO Zhang Juebin Responds to Layoff Rumors: Increased Organizational Efficiency by Streamlining Workforce from 1600 to 1400

Global Medical Tubing Market Set For 12.2% Growth, Reaching $21.03 Billion By 2028A melee broke out at midfield of Ohio Stadium after Michigan upset No. 2 Ohio State 13-10 on Saturday. After the Wolverines' fourth straight win in the series, players converged at the block "O" to plant its flag. The Ohio State players were in the south end zone singing their alma mater in front of the student section. When the Buckeyes saw the Wolverines' flag, they rushed toward the 50-yard line. Social media posts showed Michigan offensive lineman Raheem Anderson carrying the flag on a long pole to midfield, where the Wolverines were met by dozens of Ohio State players and fights broke out. Buckeyes defensive end Jack Sawyer was seen ripping the flag off the pole and taking the flag as he scuffled with several people trying to recover the flag. A statement from the Ohio State Police Department read: "Following the game, officers from multiple law enforcement agencies assisted in breaking up an on-field altercation. During the scuffle, multiple officers representing Ohio and Michigan deployed pepper spray. OSUPD is the lead agency for games and will continue to investigate." Michigan running back Kalel Mullings on FOX said: "For such a great game, you hate to see stuff like that after the game. It's bad for the sport, bad for college football. At the end of the day, some people got to learn how to lose, man. "You can't be fighting and stuff just because you lost the game. We had 60 minutes and four quarters to do all that fighting. Now people want to talk and fight. That's wrong. It's bad for the game. Classless, in my opinion. People got to be better." Once order was restored, officers cordoned the 50-yard line, using bicycles as barriers. Ohio State coach Ryan Day in his postgame press conference said he wasn't sure what happened. "I don't know all the details of it. But I know that these guys are looking to put a flag on our field and our guys weren't going to let that happen," he said. "I'll find out exactly what happened, but this is our field and certainly we're embarrassed at the fact we lost the game, but there's some prideful guys on our team that weren't just going to let that happen." The Big Ten has not yet released a statement on the incident. --Field Level MediaEven in death, has his daughter’s vote for president. In a podcast interview released Thursday, revealed she as a write-in for president on her 2024 ballot. The Republican political commentator and daughter of the late — who after a battle with brain cancer — waxed poetic about politics on the latest episode of “I wrote in my dad,” she told Couric. “People are mad at me. People are so mad at me, Katie. I mean, mad that I didn’t vote either way.” McCain went on to explain the reasoning behind her decision, saying she could “never” vote for Donald Trump but couldn’t support Kamala Harris either. “I don’t want anything on my conscience with any of it,” she said. “I can never vote for Trump. I can’t do it. I could never explain it to my children.” When probed further on why she didn’t vote for , McCain told Couric she “really wanted” the VP to “give me a reason to vote for her and I just felt like it never happened.” But perhaps even more than Harris, McCain said her inability to vote for the Democratic ticket was largely due to Harris’ running mate, Minnesota Governor Tim Walz. “Look, I’m a pro-life, pretty hardcore conservative woman and was way too extreme for me,” McCain said. “He actually scared me a lot more than she did. He’s very radical on abortion and his record during the 2020 George Floyd protests in Minneapolis...I felt like he was cosplaying as a Republican to try to get my vote.” Related Articles John McCain, who served as a U.S. representative and senator from Arizona for over 30 years, also ran an unsuccessful bid for president in 2008. He reduced his role in the Senate after being , ultimately dying from the disease a year later. His death still . “My dad dying gutted me,” Meghan McCain said. “I always feel like there’s life before my dad died and after my dad died. I didn’t become a different person, but it just hardens you and ages you when you lose anyone to brain cancer. You just become a different version of yourself.” But the 40-year-old mother of two said she’s relieved her father is not here to bear witness to the polarizing political climate. “There’s a part of me that’s happy he’s not alive to see all this, because it would have broken his heart so badly to see the divisions in the country the way they are.”

Despite the negative impact on the workforce, the company has made it clear that these layoffs are necessary in order to improve efficiency, reduce operating costs, and remain competitive in an increasingly challenging market. The restructuring plan also includes expanding the company's operations and exploring new opportunities for growth, such as investing in new technologies, expanding into new markets, and diversifying its services to meet changing customer demands.The flurry of activity in the stock market reflects a widespread optimism and confidence among investors, buoyed by positive economic indicators and strong corporate performances. The surge in stock prices of these 100 companies indicates a high demand and a limited supply, driving up prices to their maximum daily allowable limit.

As the aircraft came to a halt and the somber reality of the situation set in, a wave of gratitude washed over the passengers and crew for the unwavering support and professionalism displayed by all involved. While the loss of a fellow traveler cast a shadow over the journey, the collaborative efforts of the flight crew and airport emergency response team stood as a beacon of resilience and compassion in the face of adversity.President-elect Donald Trump on Saturday nominated Charles Kushner, the father of his son-in-law Jared Kushner, as the US ambassador to France, in the latest of several controversial picks. Kushner “is a tremendous business leader, philanthropist, & dealmaker, who will be a strong advocate representing our Country & its interests,” Trump said on his Truth Social website, adding that Jared “worked closely with me in the White House.” The choice is in keeping with Trump’s pattern, so far, of selecting people, often wealthy, who are close to his family or of proven loyalty. Kushner is a multimillionaire real estate executive and former attorney; his son was a senior adviser during Trump’s first term. Trump did not mention, however, that the elder Kushner once served jail time — a two-year sentence, most of it served in a federal prison. Kushner, who is now 70, pleaded guilty in 2004 to 18 counts of tax evasion, witness tampering and making illegal campaign contributions. The case, which was prosecuted by then US attorney Chris Christie, included sordid details, to which Kushner admitted: that he had hired a prostitute to seduce his brother-in-law, a man cooperating in a campaign finance inquiry, and then videotaped the encounter and sent it to the man’s wife, Kushner’s sister, to dissuade her from testifying against him. Christie, who worked on Trump’s first presidential transition team and then opposed him in this year’s Republican primary contests, later said Kushner had committed a “loathsome” and “disgusting crime.” In 2020, Trump issued a pardon to Kushner, whose conviction had resulted in him being disbarred in three states. Nominees for key ambassadorships are often business associates of a president-elect, or major political donors. But it is rare, if not unprecedented, to name a convicted felon. The first two men to fill the prestigious Paris post were famed inventor and statesman Benjamin Franklin and a future president, Thomas Jefferson. If confirmed, Kushner would succeed Denise Bauer, a former ambassador to Belgium who was a major Democratic fundraiser and donor. With 2,400 staff representing 100 different nationalities, AFP covers the world as a leading global news agency. AFP provides fast, comprehensive and verified coverage of the issues affecting our daily lives.