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Eagles seek 7th straight win while Rams try to keep pace in crowded NFC West raceBy BEN FINLEY The Christmas tradition has become nearly global in scope: Children from around the world track Santa Claus as he sweeps across the earth, delivering presents and defying time. Each year, at least 100,000 kids call into the North American Aerospace Defense Command to inquire about Santa’s location. Millions more follow online in nine languages , from English to Japanese. On any other night, NORAD is scanning the heavens for potential threats , such as last year’s Chinese spy balloon . But on Christmas Eve, volunteers in Colorado Springs are fielding questions like, “When is Santa coming to my house?” and, “Am I on the naughty or nice list?” “There are screams and giggles and laughter,” said Bob Sommers, 63, a civilian contractor and NORAD volunteer. Sommers often says on the call that everyone must be asleep before Santa arrives, prompting parents to say, “Do you hear what he said? We got to go to bed early.” NORAD’s annual tracking of Santa has endured since the Cold War , predating ugly sweater parties and Mariah Carey classics . The tradition continues regardless of government shutdowns, such as the one in 2018 , and this year . Here’s how it began and why the phones keep ringing. It started with a child’s accidental phone call in 1955. The Colorado Springs newspaper printed a Sears advertisement that encouraged children to call Santa, listing a phone number. A boy called. But he reached the Continental Air Defense Command, now NORAD, a joint U.S. and Canadian effort to spot potential enemy attacks. Tensions were growing with the Soviet Union, along with anxieties about nuclear war. Air Force Col. Harry W. Shoup picked up an emergency-only “red phone” and was greeted by a tiny voice that began to recite a Christmas wish list. “He went on a little bit, and he takes a breath, then says, ‘Hey, you’re not Santa,’” Shoup told The Associated Press in 1999. Realizing an explanation would be lost on the youngster, Shoup summoned a deep, jolly voice and replied, “Ho, ho, ho! Yes, I am Santa Claus. Have you been a good boy?” Shoup said he learned from the boy’s mother that Sears mistakenly printed the top-secret number. He hung up, but the phone soon rang again with a young girl reciting her Christmas list. Fifty calls a day followed, he said. In the pre-digital age, the agency used a 60-by-80 foot (18-by-24 meter) plexiglass map of North America to track unidentified objects. A staff member jokingly drew Santa and his sleigh over the North Pole. The tradition was born. “Note to the kiddies,” began an AP story from Colorado Springs on Dec. 23, 1955. “Santa Claus Friday was assured safe passage into the United States by the Continental Air Defense Command.” In a likely reference to the Soviets, the article noted that Santa was guarded against possible attack from “those who do not believe in Christmas.” Some grinchy journalists have nitpicked Shoup’s story, questioning whether a misprint or a misdial prompted the boy’s call. In 2014, tech news site Gizmodo cited an International News Service story from Dec. 1, 1955, about a child’s call to Shoup. Published in the Pasadena Independent, the article said the child reversed two digits in the Sears number. “When a childish voice asked COC commander Col. Harry Shoup, if there was a Santa Claus at the North Pole, he answered much more roughly than he should — considering the season: ‘There may be a guy called Santa Claus at the North Pole, but he’s not the one I worry about coming from that direction,’” Shoup said in the brief piece. In 2015, The Atlantic magazine doubted the flood of calls to the secret line, while noting that Shoup had a flair for public relations. Phone calls aside, Shoup was indeed media savvy. In 1986, he told the Scripps Howard News Service that he recognized an opportunity when a staff member drew Santa on the glass map in 1955. A lieutenant colonel promised to have it erased. But Shoup said, “You leave it right there,” and summoned public affairs. Shoup wanted to boost morale for the troops and public alike. “Why, it made the military look good — like we’re not all a bunch of snobs who don’t care about Santa Claus,” he said. Shoup died in 2009. His children told the StoryCorps podcast in 2014 that it was a misprinted Sears ad that prompted the phone calls. “And later in life he got letters from all over the world,” said Terri Van Keuren, a daughter. “People saying ‘Thank you, Colonel, for having, you know, this sense of humor.’” NORAD’s tradition is one of the few modern additions to the centuries-old Santa story that have endured, according to Gerry Bowler, a Canadian historian who spoke to the AP in 2010. Ad campaigns or movies try to “kidnap” Santa for commercial purposes, said Bowler, who wrote “Santa Claus: A Biography.” NORAD, by contrast, takes an essential element of Santa’s story and views it through a technological lens. In a recent interview with the AP, Air Force Lt. Gen. Case Cunningham explained that NORAD radars in Alaska and Canada —- known as the northern warning system — are the first to detect Santa. He leaves the North Pole and typically heads for the international dateline in the Pacific Ocean. From there he moves west, following the night. “That’s when the satellite systems we use to track and identify targets of interest every single day start to kick in,” Cunningham said. “A probably little-known fact is that Rudolph’s nose that glows red emanates a lot of heat. And so those satellites track (Santa) through that heat source.” NORAD has an app and website, www.noradsanta.org , that will track Santa on Christmas Eve from 4 a.m. to midnight, mountain standard time. People can call 1-877-HI-NORAD to ask live operators about Santa’s location from 6 a.m. to midnight, mountain time.big fish casino poker 。

A knit and natter group in Caerphilly is bringing joy to children in need this Christmas. The group at Rhymney Library Hub, supported by Caerphilly Cares, has been active since February and is channelling its talents into the Teams4U Shoebox Project. This will see members create handmade items for shoeboxes filled with essential supplies and treats to be delivered to children in countries including Ukraine, Moldova, Georgia, Bosnia, and Romania. The Knit and Natter group was launched by a Rhymney resident with the support of Caerphilly Cares Wellbeing Connectors, following a referral from the local GP. It has become a weekly event for community members to learn new crafts, support each other, and form lasting bonds. It meets every Tuesday from 11am to 1pm at Rhymney Library Hub. All are welcome to join, whether to develop craft skills or simply to enjoy companionship and a good chat. Councillor Carol Andrews, cabinet member for education and communities, said: "The Knit and Natter group at Rhymney Library Hub is a shining example of the difference that can be made when communities come together. "Through their hard work and dedication, they are not only lifting spirits locally but also making a real difference to children in need this Christmas. It’s inspiring to see residents supporting each other, improving their wellbeing, and creating a brighter future for others.” By participating in the Shoebox Project, the Knit and Natter group contributes to a larger mission to reach vulnerable children through local partnerships with schools, hospitals, and community organisations across Eastern Europe. The group’s efforts have also brought benefits closer to home, reducing social isolation and improving wellbeing for participants in Rhymney. The Knit and Natter initiative is a testament to the power of community-led action, showing how small acts of kindness can create lasting positive change.

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First Horizon Names New Head of Investor RelationsDyskinetic Cerebral Palsy: A Closer Look at Symptoms, Diagnosis and Clinical Research UnderwayThe Texans elevated wide receiver Jared Wayne and cornerback D’Angelo Ross from practice squad for the Christmas Day game against the Ravens, the team announced. Wayne has played two games this season, seeing action on 24 offensive snaps and 17 on special teams. It is his first career action, and he now is out of elevations for the season. He has no stats. Wayne signed with the Texans as an undrafted free agent in 2023 and spent his rookie season on the practice squad. Ross has played eight games with two starts this season, bouncing between the active roster and the practice squad. He has seen action on 124 snaps on defense and 115 on special teams. He has 13 tackles this season.

Former Bank of Canada governor Mark Carney says Canada didn’t live up to its values on immigration over the last few years as it allowed more people into the country than it could absorb. Carney, who is currently a special adviser to the Liberal party, made those comments during an event in Ottawa held by Cardus, a Christian think tank. Carney says Canada let newcomers down by admitting more workers and students than it could provide for, including with housing, health care and social services. Earlier this fall, the Liberal government announced a plan to significantly reduced its immigration target for permanent residents and to dramatically scale back the number of temporary residents in Canada. Those changes came about after a period of strong population growth that led to mounting criticism of the Liberal government’s immigration policies. Prime Minister Justin Trudeau has acknowledged that the federal government did not get the balance right on immigration after the COVID-19 pandemic.NoneLos Angeles Chargers make an extra cautious decision regarding star RB J.K. Dobbin's injury

Percentages: FG .375, FT .563. 3-Point Goals: 5-14, .357 (Gaten 2-2, Carver 1-2, Smith 1-2, Forrester-Jhagroo 1-4, Beckwith 0-1, Cunningham 0-1, Marion 0-2). Team Rebounds: 0. Team Turnovers: 3. Blocked Shots: 2 (Gaten, Smith). Turnovers: 16 (Beckwith 3, Forrester-Jhagroo 3, Cunningham 2, Fulp 2, Marion, Peacock, Robinson, Sidney, Smith, Sucarichi). Steals: 4 (Fulp 2, Cunningham, Smith). Technical Fouls: None. Percentages: FG .439, FT .789. 3-Point Goals: 8-25, .320 (Johnston 2-3, Williams 2-3, Hausen 1-1, Pettiford 1-1, Giffa 1-3, K.Hamilton 1-3, Fonville 0-1, Thiam 0-2, Anderson 0-3, Benham 0-5). Team Rebounds: 1. Team Turnovers: 1. Blocked Shots: 10 (Ibukunoluwa 4, Bodo Bodo 3, Matlekovic 2, K.Hamilton). Turnovers: 9 (Johnston 2, Williams 2, Bodo Bodo, Giffa, K.Hamilton, Pettiford, Thiam). Steals: 8 (Ibukunoluwa 3, Williams 2, Bodo Bodo, Johnston, K.Hamilton). Technical Fouls: None. A_1,846 (4,500).SAN DIEGO , Dec. 11, 2024 /PRNewswire/ -- BSD Builders, Inc., a general contractor specializing in healthcare construction, has announced a strategic partnership with 2G Energy Inc., a pioneer in energy systems, including cogeneration. The collaboration will focus on designing and deploying cutting-edge microgrid solutions to enhance energy resilience, sustainability, and efficiency for commercial building clients. The partnership was formed in response to the challenges faced by skilled nursing facilities during the California wildfires of 2018 and 2020. Utility companies initiated Public Safety Power Shutoffs (PSPS) during dangerous weather conditions, forcing facilities to evacuate patients. "After several of our skilled nursing clients were impacted by California wildfires, we worked on a solution to provide an alternative source of power so the lives of their vulnerable residents would not be at risk," explained Jeff Blair , CEO of BSD Builders, Inc. "We reached out to several energy infrastructure companies to support this initiative and were surprised that there was little interest. When we connected with the team at 2G Energy, Inc., they were not only amenable but enthusiastic to help find a way to help protect patients' health and safety." In 2022, California Governor Gavin Newsom passed legislation requiring skilled nursing facilities to maintain at least 96 hours of backup power. The BSD SSC Microgrid solution was developed not only to help skilled nursing facilities meet this new mandate but also to provide any building with a reliable and efficient source of power during outages. It was designed to withstand hurricane wind loads up to 150 mph and has been seismically certified (California OSHPD/HCAi OSP-0826). "Partnering with BSD Builders allows us to bring microgrid technology to people who need it most," said Darren Jamison , Managing Director of 2G Energy North America. "Microgrids are crucial for both enhancing energy security and reducing carbon footprints, and we are thrilled to collaborate on projects that not only drive innovation but also promote a more sustainable energy future." The first projects under the partnership are expected to be deployed in California , with plans to expand to additional markets in the coming months. The partnership underscores both companies' commitment to sustainability and their shared vision of reshaping the future of energy. For more information on BSD Builders, Inc. and 2G Energy Inc., or to inquire about the microgrid solutions, please visit bsdbuilders.com . About BSD Builders, Inc. - BSD Builders, Inc. is a leading general contractor specializing in the healthcare industry. Focusing on exceeding industry standards and delivering exceptional value to clients, BSD Builders, Inc. continues to set the benchmark for excellence in the construction and energy sectors. About 2G Energy Inc. - 2G Energy is a globally recognized leader in the development and production of combined heat and power (CHP) systems. With a commitment to sustainability and innovation, 2G Energy provides cutting-edge solutions that optimize energy efficiency and environmental performance. View original content to download multimedia: https://www.prnewswire.com/news-releases/bsd-builders-inc-partners-with-2g-energy-inc-to-develop-advanced-microgrid-solutions-302329485.html SOURCE BSD Builders, Inc.

Alexander: Is diminished USC-UCLA game another reminder of what we’ve lost?Rob Gronkowski retired as arguably the greatest tight end in NFL history after the 2021 campaign. Three years later, at 35, he’s now one of the more well-known NFL pundits working for Fox. Meanwhile, Travis Kelce, who, like Gronk, was born in 1989, is still playing tight end at a high level for the 14-1 Kansas City Chiefs. So, how long can Travis keep this up? Well, Gronk has an answer. Speaking on football morning show Up & Adams with host Kay Adams, Gronkowski spoke about the difference between him and Kelce as 35-year-olds. Gronkowski pointed out that while Kelce’s numbers are ostensibly “down” this year, he’s still putting up impressive numbers when compared with other, younger tight ends around the league. Travis Kelce has surely slowed in recent years, which is fair enough. He is halfway from 30 to 40. However, he hasn’t slowed as much as most other players would at his age, largely because he relies on football IQ, reliable hands, and strength, rather than speed and athleticism. Kelce’s still among the league leaders at the TE position. He’s got 89 receptions, good for 3rd among tight ends, and 739 receiving yards, good for 5th. He only has two TDs this year, but it’s clear that he’s still one of the most potent producers in his position. In his first six seasons with Patrick Mahomes , Kelce averaged 100 receptions, 1,238 yards, 67 first downs, and nine TDs. This year, he’s on pace for 838 yards, 49 first downs, and about 101 receptions. He may not be as efficient, but his QB is still relying on him about as much as ever. While there are certainly parallels to be drawn between Gronkowski and his legendary QB, Tom Brady, and Kelce and his legendary QB, Mahomes, Gronk also acknowledged the differences. While Gronkowski came in as the young guy getting taught by the elder QB, which is a common occurrence, Kelce is the veteran in his partnership with Mahomes, which makes them unique. Kelce will continue to try and fight Father Time as the Chiefs go for the first-ever Super Bowl three-peat in NFL history this season. They wrap up the 2024 season at home against the Pittsburgh Steelers on Christmas Day, and on the road against the division-rival Denver Broncos. They should be able to win one of those games to secure the No. 1 AFC seed and home-field advantage. That would boost their chances of reaching the Super Bowl for the fifth time in six years.NORAD’s Santa tracker was a Cold War morale boost. Now it attracts millions of kids