Ottawa police say a 54-year-old man is facing several charges after allegedly going more than three times the speed limit this weekend. The driver was first spotted on Merivale Road near Meadowlands drive overnight Sunday, where police say he accelerated to more than 180 km/h in a 60 km/h zone. The man was eventually stopped and arrested at a red light on West Hunt Club Road. He is charged with impaired driving, over 80, and stunt driving. The stunt driving charge comes with an automatic vehicle impound of 14 days, but the man will be waiting much longer before he can drive again. Police said because he is charged with both impaired driving and stunt driving, he is facing a double licence suspension. An impaired driving charge comes with an automatic 90-day suspension, and a stunt driving charge comes with a 30-day suspension. "Reckless speeding and impaired driving put lives at risk. If you witness dangerous driving, report it immediately at 9-1-1. Let’s work together to keep our roads safe this holiday season!" Ottawa police said. Shopping Trends The Shopping Trends team is independent of the journalists at CTV News. We may earn a commission when you use our links to shop. Read about us. Editor's Picks 10 Family Calendars And Planners That'll Help You Keep Track Of Everything In The New Year Our Guide To The Best Winter Boots You Can Get In Canada 16 Cozy Home Essentials That Cost Less Than $100 Home Our Guide To The Best Snow Shovels In Canada In 2024 (And Where To Get Them) 14 Of The Best Home Security Devices You Can Find Online Right Now (And They've Got The Reviews To Prove It) 13 Of The Best Fidget Toys For Adults Gifts The Clock Is Ticking — Shop These 25 Last-Minute Amazon Prime Gifts Now If You Have An Amazon Prime Account, These 70+ Crowd-Pleasing Gifts Will Still Arrive Before Christmas If You Have An Amazon Prime Account, These 50 Brilliant Stocking Stuffers Will Still Arrive Before Christmas Beauty 20 Products Your Dry, Dehydrated Skin Will Thank You For Ordering 14 Hydrating Face Masks That’ll Save Your Skin This December 12 Budget-Friendly Products To Add To Your Winter Skincare Routine Deals 50+ Of The Best Amazon Canada Boxing Day Sales, Deals, And Discounts For 2024 The Altitude Sports Boxing Day Sale Has Begun — Here's What We're Shopping For PSA: The Michael Kors Boxing Week Sale Is Happening Right Now Ottawa Top Stories OPP and Ottawa firefighters help remove vehicle wedged into Highway 417 overpass Ottawa driver gets double licence suspension after allegedly going 3 times the speed limit Ottawa welcomes new Team Canada fans with citizenship ceremony ahead of the World Juniors A light snow on Christmas Eve ahead of Ottawa's white Christmas Traffic dispute threatens to dampen holiday spirit on Taffy Lane House to Home organization in Ottawa helps newcomers set up their lives Read Trudeau's Christmas message What's open and closed in Ottawa over the holidays CTVNews.ca Top Stories What is flagpoling? A new ban on the practice is starting to take effect Immigration measures announced as part of Canada's border response to president-elect Donald Trump's 25 per cent tariff threat are starting to be implemented, beginning with a ban on what's known as 'flagpoling.' Hong Kong police issue arrest warrants and bounties for six activists including two Canadians Hong Kong police on Tuesday announced a fresh round of arrest warrants for six activists based overseas, with bounties set at $1 million Hong Kong dollars for information leading to their arrests. Indigenous family faced discrimination in North Bay, Ont., when they were kicked off transit bus Ontario's Human Rights Tribunal has awarded members of an Indigenous family in North Bay $15,000 each after it ruled they were victims of discrimination. OPP and Ottawa firefighters help remove vehicle wedged into Highway 417 overpass Ottawa firefighters and local Ontario Provincial Police officers were called to a bizarre scene Tuesday morning along Highway 417, where a driver managed to wedge his vehicle under an overpass. U.S. president-elect's son shares post on X of Donald Trump buying Canada on Amazon U.S. president-elect Donald Trump and those in his corner continue to send out strong messages about Canada. Read Trudeau's Christmas message Prime Minister Justin Trudeau issued his Christmas message on Tuesday. Here is his message in full. Quebec fugitive gunned down leaving gym in Mexican resort town RCMP are confirming that a fugitive, Mathieu Belanger, wanted by Quebec provincial police has died in Mexico, in what local media are calling a murder. Justin Baldoni's 'Man Enough' podcast co-host Liz Plank announces her departure Justin Baldoni's 'Man Enough' podcast co-host Liz Plank announced she's stepping away from the show after actress Blake Lively accused the actor and director of sexual harassment and a smear campaign in a civil rights complaint last week. Heavy travel day off to a rough start after American Airlines briefly grounds all flights American Airlines briefly grounded flights nationwide Tuesday due to 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. Atlantic Snow forecast through Christmas Eve for parts of the Maritimes Parts of the Maritimes that were hit by a weekend snowstorm are in for more of the white stuff this Christmas Eve. 'Can I taste it?': Rare $55,000 bottle of spirits for sale in Moncton, N.B. A rare bottle of Scotch whisky is for sale in downtown Moncton, N.B., with a price tag reading $55,000. N.S. Health warns parents of salmonella exposure at Halifax daycare Nova Scotia Health is warning parents whose children attend a Halifax daycare of a salmonella exposure. Toronto Trudeau could stay or go. Either way, Canadians should brace for a spring election Canada appears to be barrelling toward a spring election now that the NDP is vowing to vote down the government early next year -- whether Prime Minister Justin Trudeau stays on or not. Suspect charged after woman sexually assaulted by stranger at Keele Station: Toronto police Toronto police have arrested a suspect in connection with an alleged sexual assault at a TTC subway station in the city’s west end. Woman seriously injured after stabbing in Moss Park: paramedics A stabbing in Toronto’s Moss Park neighbourhood Tuesday morning has left a woman with serious injuries as police search for a suspect. Montreal Snowfall means a white Christmas, but also traffic woes across southern Quebec roads A heavy snowfall has guaranteed much of Quebec a white Christmas, but it has also sent cars skidding off the province's roads during the busy holiday travel period. As governments try to solve housing crisis, modular homes emerge as potential solution With all three levels of governments looking to find ways to build more housing and faster, one Quebec builder says it has the solution. Quebec doing better job at retaining immigrants, Atlantic Canada still struggling Immigrants are increasingly choosing to stay in Quebec, according to a new report from Statistics Canada, but the same isn't true in the Atlantic region, which continues to lose newcomers to the rest of the country. Northern Ontario Indigenous family faced discrimination in North Bay, Ont., when they were kicked off transit bus Ontario's Human Rights Tribunal has awarded members of an Indigenous family in North Bay $15,000 each after it ruled they were victims of discrimination. Norad crew waiting for Santa to fly over Canada as annual holiday track underway Departing from the North Pole while we were all sleeping, Santa Claus' journey around the world bringing presents and Christmas cheer for all of the good boys and girls who believe is underway. U.S. president-elect's son shares post on X of Donald Trump buying Canada on Amazon U.S. president-elect Donald Trump and those in his corner continue to send out strong messages about Canada. Windsor WECHU warning of positive avian influenza cases The Windsor-Essex County Health Unit (WECHU) is working to alert the public of the dangers of avian influenza after waterfowl in the area tested positive. Chatham police aware of physical incident between two children going viral on social media The Chatham-Kent Police Service said it is aware of a video going viral on social media, showing a physical incident between two children in the area. Over the holidays, the gift you can give yourself is taking care of your mental health The holiday season can be challenging for many – whether it’s lonely, overwhelming, busy, quiet, or a reminder of people that can’t be with you. London London fire responds to Wellington Road collision, contains fuel leak London Fire Department was on the scene of a two vehicle collision involving a delivery truck on Tuesday morning. 'It’s a surprise': Shoebox Project gives women impacted by homelessness a Christmas gift For many of the women attending My Sister’s Place (MSP) in London, Ont. the holidays are a difficult time. Proposed Grand Bend community centre features variety of amenities, with a cost of $20 million A conceptual facility design proposes a variety of features for the much anticipated addition to the community. Kitchener What’s open and what’s closed over the holidays A detailed guide to what’s open and closed between Dec. 25 and New Year's Day. Pedestrian seriously hurt following collision in Norfolk County Bell Mill Sideroad was closed for several hours between Rokeby Sideroad and Goshen Road but has since reopened. Police investigating after vandalization of Pride crosswalk in Waterloo Waterloo Regional Police are investigating after a Pride crosswalk was vandalized in Waterloo on Sunday. Barrie Live trackers await Santa Claus and his reindeer crew, special track underway in Simcoe County The spirit of Christmas is in the air as Santa Claus begins his lasting journey to deliver presents to children around the region. Third suspect arrested in Caledon peace officer assault A third person has been arrested after an assault in November. No parking on Barrie streets on Christmas Eve Barrie crews will work tonight to clear the snow from its streets. Winnipeg One person dead, another injured following Monday night house fire One person has died and another is in unstable condition following a house fire Monday evening. Winnipeg police investigating string of packages being stolen The Winnipeg Police Service is investigating a string of package thefts in the Transcona area. ‘Choosing your own adventure’: Winnipeg’s Select Start readies Exchange District for brand new ‘barcade’ experience A new ‘barcade’ in the heart of the Exchange District is hoping to be a successful launch title for a new generation of players. Calgary Three sent to hospital after Glenmore Trail crash Calgary police shut down Glenmore Trail overnight following a crash between a car and a crane truck. Person in critical condition after downtown Calgary fire A person was sent to hospital in life-threatening condition after a fire in downtown Calgary on Tuesday morning. Skier seriously injured in avalanche near Revelstoke, B.C. A skier was seriously injured after an avalanche near Revelstoke, B.C., over the weekend. Edmonton 'Serious safety issues': Edmonton building where security guard was killed evacuated An apartment building where a security guard was killed earlier this month has been evacuated. 1 charged after van stolen from Edmonton's Food Bank on Monday One person has been arrested after a van was stolen from Edmonton's Food Bank on Monday. Homelessness, rising property taxes major matters for Edmonton's mayor in 2024 Amarjeet Sohi looked back on the calendar year that's soon coming to a close with CTV News Edmonton, detailing recent challenges he and city council faced – typical year-end matters such as property taxes and finances – plus ongoing questions and efforts surrounding homelessness. Regina Sask. RCMP still searching for man suspected of small-town break-ins spanning years A man suspected of breaking into offices and small businesses across Saskatchewan over the past number of years has struck again – according to RCMP. 'A nice way to connect': Christmas card exchange between Sask. friends spans 60 years What started out as a little holiday fun between two Regina friends has turned into a tradition that now spans six decades. Dog lost in Saskatchewan during cross-country trip reunited with family A family moving from Ontario to Alberta in November had a scare when their family dog got loose during a stop in Dafoe, Sask. and ran away. Saskatoon 'People prop the doors open': Saskatoon resident concerned as people shelter in her stairwell With the number of homeless people in Saskatoon at an unprecedented high, it’s no surprise people are looking for places to warm up. Saskatoon-born comedian Brendan Flaherty returns to ask, 'what'd I miss?' As a Saskatoon-born comedian pursuing a career in the Six, Brendan Flaherty says he often hears the same question from friends back home. More drivers opt for personalized plates in Sask. — and behind every one there's a story You may have noticed a few more vanity plates on Saskatchewan roads in recent years, and every one of them comes with a personal story. Vancouver B.C. friends nab 'unbelievable' $1M lotto win just before Christmas Two friends from B.C's lower mainland are feeling particularly merry this December, after a single lottery ticket purchased from a small kiosk landed them instant millionaire status. Storms to continue rolling through B.C.'s South Coast over Christmas Day The tempestuous weather that descended on southern B.C. Monday afternoon will linger for the next few days, with a storm forecast for Christmas Day. Year-end interview: B.C. Premier David Eby reflects on nail-biting 2024 election It was a year that saw David Eby elected B.C. premier for the first time, and lead his party to government for a third consecutive term. Vancouver Island Year-end interview: B.C. Premier David Eby reflects on nail-biting 2024 election It was a year that saw David Eby elected B.C. premier for the first time, and lead his party to government for a third consecutive term. B.C. friends nab 'unbelievable' $1M lotto win just before Christmas Two friends from B.C's lower mainland are feeling particularly merry this December, after a single lottery ticket purchased from a small kiosk landed them instant millionaire status. B.C. woman sentenced for impaired driving crash that killed retired Mountie A Vancouver Island woman who was high on drugs when she crashed a car into a pickup truck, killing a retired Mountie and injuring his two passengers, "did not realize what was happening and took no steps to avoid the accident" a B.C. Supreme Court judge found. Kelowna Forfeited Hells Angels clubhouse in Kelowna, B.C., sold to the city A former Hells Angels clubhouse that was seized by the British Columbia government in 2023 after years of fighting in court has been sold to the City of Kelowna. Death of woman found in Kelowna's Waterfront Park in June deemed 'non-criminal in nature': RCMP Police in Kelowna say a death they began investigating back in June has now been confirmed as "non-criminal in nature." B.C. man sentenced for 'execution-style' murder of bystander in drug trade conflict A B.C. man convicted of the "intentional and ruthless killing of a bystander" while acting as an enforcer in the drug trade has been sentenced for a second time in the slaying. Stay Connected

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Chuck Woolery, smooth-talking game show host of 'Love Connection' and 'Scrabble,' dies at 83Stock market today: Wall Street rises at the start of a holiday-shortened weekKing and PM honour former US president Jimmy Carter after his death aged 100

FOX45: DPW workers rally at City Hall, demand safer conditions and higher pay amid tragic deathsSAN JUAN, Puerto Rico (AP) — Colin Smalls scored 23 points as American held off the University of Albany 81-77 at the Puerto Rico Classico tournament on Sunday. Smalls went 8 of 11 from the field (5 for 7 from 3-point range) for the Eagles (3-4). Elijah Stephens scored 20 points while shooting 7 of 10 from the field and 6 for 9 from the line and added five rebounds and six assists. Matt Mayock shot 6 for 8, including 3 for 4 from beyond the arc to finish with 17 points. Justin Neely led the Great Danes (5-2) in scoring, finishing with 20 points and seven rebounds. Byron Joshua added 17 points and six rebounds for Albany (NY). Kheni Briggs also recorded 14 points. The Great Danes ended a five-game winning streak with the loss. American went into halftime ahead of Albany (NY) 39-30. Smalls put up 12 points in the half. American used an 8-0 run in the second half to build a 19-point lead at 65-46 with 10:27 left in the half before finishing off the win. NEXT UP American plays Saturday against UPR-Mayaguez, and Albany (NY) visits Georgetown on Saturday. The Associated Press created this story using technology provided by Data Skrive and data from Sportradar .

The King and the Prime Minister have paid tribute to Jimmy Carter following the former US president’s death on Sunday aged 100. In a message to the American people, the King expressed “great sadness” at the news of Mr Carter’s death, describing him as “a committed public servant” who “devoted his life to promoting peace and human rights”. He added: “His dedication and humility served as an inspiration to many, and I remember with great fondness his visit to the United Kingdom in 1977. “My thoughts and prayers are with President Carter’s family and the American people at this time.” Mr Carter, a former peanut farmer, served one term in the White House between 1977 and 1981 and spent his post-presidency years as a global humanitarian, winning the Nobel Peace Prize in 2002. Sir Keir Starmer said Mr Carter had “lived his values in the service of others to the very end” through “decades of selfless public service”. Praising a “lifelong dedication to peace” that saw him win the Nobel Peace Prize in 2002, Sir Keir added: “Motivated by his strong faith and values, President Carter redefined the post-presidency with a remarkable commitment to social justice and human rights at home and abroad.” Tributes to Mr Carter followed the announcement of his death by his family on Sunday, more than a year after he decided to enter hospice care. His son, Chip Carter, said: “My father was a hero, not only to me but to everyone who believes in peace, human rights, and unselfish love.” Very sorry to hear of President Carter’s passing. I pay tribute to his decades of selfless public service. My thoughts are with his family and friends at this time. pic.twitter.com/IaKmZcteb1 — Keir Starmer (@Keir_Starmer) December 29, 2024 US President Joe Biden, one of the first elected politicians to endorse Mr Carter’s bid for the presidency in 1976, said the world had “lost an extraordinary leader, statesman and humanitarian”. He said: “Over six decades, we had the honour of calling Jimmy Carter a dear friend. But, what’s extraordinary about Jimmy Carter, though, is that millions of people throughout America and the world who never met him thought of him as a dear friend as well. “With his compassion and moral clarity, he worked to eradicate disease, forge peace, advance civil rights and human rights, promote free and fair elections, house the homeless, and always advocate for the least among us.” Vice President Kamala Harris said Mr Carter “reminded our nation and the world that there is strength in decency and compassion”. “His life and legacy continue to inspire me — and will inspire generations to come,” she said. “Our world is a better place because of President Carter.” Other UK politicians also paid tribute to Mr Carter. Liberal Democrat leader Sir Ed Davey said he was “an inspiration” who “led a truly remarkable life dedicated to public service with a genuine care for people”. Scottish First Minister John Swinney described the former president as “a good, decent, honest man who strove for peace in all that he did”, while Welsh First Minister said he was “a remarkable man” and “a humanitarian and scholar”. Former prime minister Sir Tony Blair said Mr Carter’s “life was a testament to public service”. He added: “I always had the greatest respect for him, his spirit and his dedication. He fundamentally cared and consistently toiled to help those in need.” Gordon Brown, another former prime minister, said it was a “privilege” to have known Mr Carter, who “will be mourned, not just in America, but in every continent where human rights are valued”. Mr Carter is expected to receive a state funeral featuring public observances in Atlanta, Georgia, and Washington DC before being buried in his hometown of Plains, Georgia. A moderate democrat born in Plains in October 1924, Mr Carter’s political career took him from the Georgia state senate to the state governorship and, finally, the White House, where he took office as 39th president in the wake of the Watergate scandal and the Vietnam War. His presidency saw economic disruption amid volatile oil prices, along with social tensions at home and challenges abroad including the Iranian revolution that sparked a 444-day hostage crisis at the US embassy in Tehran. But he also brokered the Camp David Accords between Egypt and Israel, which led to a peace treaty between the two countries in 1979. After his defeat in the 1980 presidential election, he worked more than four decades leading The Carter Centre, which he and his late wife Rosalynn co-founded in 1982 to “wage peace, fight disease, and build hope”. Under his leadership, the Carter Center virtually eliminated Guinea Worm disease, which has gone from affecting 3.5 million people in Africa and Asia in 1986 to just 14 in 2023. Mrs Carter, who died last year aged 96, had played a more active role in her husband’s presidency than previous first ladies, with Mr Carter saying she had been “my equal partner in everything I ever accomplished”. Earlier this year, on his 100th birthday, Mr Carter received a private congratulatory message from the King, expressing admiration for his life of public service

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Ustby, Donarski lead No. 16 North Carolina women over Villanova 53-36 in Battle 4 Atlantis semifinalPinwheel phones start at $100 and offer parental control features. There's a curated app store and call and text history. While phones are inexpensive, the Pinwheel features are available through a quarterly or annual subscription, on top of a mobile data plan. Second grade feels too young to get a smartphone, yet my second-grader welcomes the idea with open arms. While she loves her Fitbit Ace LTE for communication and play, a phone gives her a sense of freedom that a heavily controlled wearable can't. Also: I tried an ultra-thin iPhone case, and here's how my daunting experience went I tested a kids' smartphone from Pinwheel with her to give the idea a shot. Pinwheel phones are inexpensive Android phones with a subscription that gives parents control and ways to limit distractions. They exclude social media apps and web browsers to prevent exposure to inappropriate content and give adults management options for contacts and communication. Pinwheel phones for kids A distraction-free solution to staying in touch with your kids, Pinwheel offers several smartphones from $100-$600. Getting the Pinwheel phone set up was challenging, as it arrived without a SIM card. There were some mishaps in setting up a review unit of this device that wouldn't have happened if I were a regular customer. However, it's worth noting that Pinwheel isn't a mobile service carrier, so you'd have to set up service with one or bring your own plan. Pinwheel provides unlocked phones that work with most major carriers, but users can add a SIM card from Mint, US Mobile, or Ultra when checking out their cart. You'll also choose your Pinwheel subscription billing when you check out, which would be $50 quarterly or $175 yearly. After you receive your phone and SIM card, you set up your account and activate your data plan. This plan would be set up directly with the mobile carrier, so you must pay separately for the carrier service and the Pinwheel subscription. The Pinwheel subscription provides a locked-down smartphone and gives parents access to the Pinwheel Caregiver Portal. The portal lets you add or remove contacts, approve and install curated apps, monitor activity, and set phone usage schedules. Also: The best cheap phones in 2024: Expert tested and reviewed I set up my 8-year-old's Pinwheel phone (a Samsung A54) with the Caregiver Portal and added several educational gaming apps, including math puzzles and spelling resources. The apps took some time to install on the phone after I added them to my app, sometimes up to a day, which is less than ideal. Kids can also access PinwheelGPT, a kid-friendly AI chatbot powered by ChatGPT. Ultimately, I bypassed the portal and gave the phone access to the Google Play Store to download apps, which I then revoked. I wish the phone were faster to add apps, but I did like how informative the Caregiver Portal was. I can quickly see the call and text history, locate the device, approve content, and enable group texting. Also: Skip the iPad: This tablet is redefining what a kids tablet can do (and it's on sale) Overall, a smartphone is a bit old for my 8-year-old yet. My kid's favorite app on the Pinwheel phone was Duolingo, which isn't available for her Fire HD 10 Pro kids' tablet with Amazon Kids+. Aside from using Duolingo to learn languages, she constantly forgot to charge the phone and would leave it on a dresser for days, no matter how much I reminded her. Pinwheel settings She wears the Fitbit Ace LTE daily because it's always on her wrist, so she doesn't have to remember to carry it everywhere. As adults, we're used to remembering our phones when we move from one spot to the next, as they have seemingly become extensions of ourselves. But kids aren't used to the idea and don't always have big enough pockets or carry bags around to hold it. I'd rather keep the wearable while they're young and reserve the phone experience for the coming years. ZDNET's buying advice After testing the Pinwheel platform, I had mixed feelings. Though the user experience takes some getting used to, its parental controls are pretty flexible, including the ability to grant access to the Google Play Store. But the whole combo is expensive, considering that you have to pay for a data plan from Mint or US Mobile, which can be about $15 a month, and a Pinwheel subscription, which is also about $15 monthly. Add the phone cost to that, from $100-$600, and you have to consider if giving your kid an older locked-down smartphone is a better choice for you. Also: The best small tablets of 2024: Expert tested and reviewed I'd recommend the Pinwheel to parents of kids over 10 years old, as this age onward is a bit more responsible with devices. Those parents who want to communicate with their kids wherever they are but maintain control over apps and social media would greatly benefit from Pinwheel, as long as they're okay without access to YouTube for entertainment or a browser for homework. ZDNET's product of the year: Why Oura Ring 4 bested Samsung, Apple, and others in 2024 I tested Samsung's 98-inch 4K QLED TV, and watching Hollywood movies on it left me in awe I let my 8-year-old test this Android phone for kids. Here's what you should know before buying This ThinkPad checks all my boxes for a solid work laptop. Here's why it stands out

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Women will for the first time make up a majority of state legislators in Colorado and New Mexico next year, but at least 13 states saw losses in female representation after the November election, according to a count released Thursday by the Rutgers Center for American Women and Politics. While women will fill a record number of state legislative seats in 2025, the overall uptick will be slight, filling just over third of legislative seats. Races in some states are still being called. "We certainly would like to see a faster rate of change and more significant increases in each election cycle to get us to a place where parity in state legislatures is less novel and more normal," said Kelly Dittmar, director of research at the CAWP, which is a unit of the Eagleton Institute of Politics at Rutgers University. As of Wednesday, at least 2,450 women will serve in state legislatures, representing 33.2% of the seats nationwide. The previous record was set in 2024 with 2,431 women, according to the CAWP. The number of Republican women, at least 851, will break the previous record of 815 state lawmakers set in 2024. "But still, Republican women are very underrepresented compared to Democratic women," Debbie Walsh, director of the CAWP, said. From left, House Maj. Whip Reena Szczepanski, D-Santa Fe, Rep. D. Wonda Johnson, D-Church Rock and Rep. Cristina Parajon, D-Albuquerque, talk July 18 before the start of a special session, in Santa Fe, N.M. Eddie Moore, The Albuquerque Journal By the most recent count, 19 states will have increased the number of women in their state legislatures, according to the CAWP. The most notable increases were in New Mexico and Colorado, where women will for the first time make up a majority of lawmakers. In New Mexico, voters sent an 11 additional women to the chambers. Colorado previously attained gender parity in 2023 and is set to tip over to a slight female majority in the upcoming year. The states follow Nevada, which was the first in the country to see a female majority in the legislature following elections in 2018. Next year, women will make up almost 62% of state lawmakers in Nevada, far exceeding parity. Women in California's Senate will make up the chamber's majority for the first time in 2025 as well. Women also made notable gains in South Dakota, increasing its number by at least nine. Listen now and subscribe: Apple Podcasts | Spotify | RSS Feed | SoundStack | All Of Our Podcasts Four of South Carolina's Sister Senators, from left, Sen. Margie Bright Matthews, D-Walterboro, Sen. Mia McLeod, I-Columbia, Sen. Katrina Shealy, R-Lexington, and Sen. Penry Gustafson, R-Camden, stand in front of the Senate on June 26 with their John F. Kennedy Profile in Courage award in Columbia, S.C. Jeffrey Collins, Associated Press At least thirteen states emerged from the election with fewer female lawmakers than before, with the most significant loss occurring in South Carolina. This year, the only three Republican women in the South Carolina Senate lost their primaries after they stopped a total abortion ban from passing. Next year, only two women, who are Democrats, will be in the 46-member Senate. No other state in the country will have fewer women in its upper chamber, according to the CAWP. Women make up 55% of the state's registered voters. Half the members in the GOP dominated state were elected in 2012 or before, so it will likely be the 2040s before any Republican woman elected in the future can rise to leadership or a committee chairmanship in the chamber, which doles out leadership positions based on seniority. A net loss of five women in the legislature means they will make up only about 13% of South Carolina's lawmakers, making the state the second lowest in the country for female representation. Only West Virginia has a smaller proportion of women in the legislature. West Virginia stands to lose one more women from its legislative ranks, furthering its representation problem in the legislature where women will make up just 11% of lawmakers. Many women, lawmakers and experts say that women's voices are needed in discussions on policy, especially at a time when state government is at its most powerful in decades. Walsh, director of the CAWP, said the new changes expected from the Trump administration will turn even more policy and regulation to the states. The experiences and perspectives women offer will be increasingly needed, she said, especially on topics related to reproductive rights, healthcare, education and childcare. "The states may have to pick up where the federal government may, in fact, be walking away," Walsh said. "And so who serves in those institutions is more important now than ever." November 7, 2024: Trump Victory Adam Zyglis Adam ZyglisPLAINS, Ga. — This love story begins in Plains, Georgia. That’s where Former President Jimmy Carter and Rosalynn would meet. They were both born and raised in a small farming town, just miles apart from one another and their love story would last a lifetime. On July 7, 2023, the couple celebrated 77 years in their love journey . Rosalynn Carter died on Nov. 19, 2023, while Jimmy Carter died on Sunday in Plains, more than a year apart from each other. As Eleanor Rosalynn Smith would later describe in her memoir ‘First Lady from Plains,’ “Jimmy and I grew up three years and three miles apart.” They would return to Plains throughout their career and settle there later in life . “We do a lot of things, go a lot of places, but Plains is home, and we always come home,” Rosalynn said in the book. After Jimmy proposed for a second time, Rosalynn accepted and the two were married on a warm Southern summer day, July 7, 1946. There wasn’t a ton of fuss, no invitations or anything like that. He was 21, she was 18 and they were in love. Rosalynn reportedly refused the first proposal and promised her father, on his deathbed, to finish college at Georgia Southwestern before getting married . RELATED: A day before their 75th wedding anniversary, the Jimmy Carter Presidential Library and Museum reopens On their wedding day, Rosalynn said Jimmy picked her up from her parent’s home to drive to the church together. She wore a short dress, opting for a corsage in lieu of a bouquet. He wore his white Navy Uniform. They walked into the church and down the aisle hand-in-hand, when they emerged, they were man and wife. Is it a coincidence that #InternationalKissingDay is the day before the Carter’s wedding anniversary? We think not! Image: NAID 173390 #GreatCouplesInHistory #75YearsTomorrow ! pic.twitter.com/pEN8P2WXt6 The couple mainly spent their first married years in Norfolk, Virginia. Jimmy was in the Navy and assigned to the USS Wyoming. The day before Independence Day in 1947, they had their first son, John Williams, who they named after Rosalynn’s grandfather. In 1950 while stationed in Hawaii, James Earl III was born and named after Jimmy and his father, James Earl Sr. Two years later, Donnell Jeffrey became their third boy. It would be 15 years before they had their only baby girl, Amy Lynn in 1967. Throughout Jimmy’s journey to Georgia’s Governor’s Mansion and eventually the White House, the Carter’s love story would season, and their family grew. The Carters have three granddaughters, nine grandsons – one who died – and more than a dozen great-grandchildren. In a conversation with reporters in 2015, Jimmy said they have “a good and harmonious family.” And on that journey in politics and the philanthropy and activism that would follow, the Carters were one. In speeches, Jimmy nearly always wrote “Rosalynn and I” when talking about their work on the ground in developing nations and here at home. They raised Amy together in the White House and Rosalynn would become a confidant to the most powerful man in the world. RELATED: Former First Lady Rosalynn Carter honored by World Health Organization for mental health advocacy In an op-ed published in 1996, Jimmy described her as a “key player in political strategy meetings.” He said, “I shared almost all problems and questions with Rosalynn. In fact, we met in the Oval Office for regular weekly luncheons devoted exclusively to public affairs.” When they left the White House, the couple began to write books and established The Jimmy Carter Presidential Library and Museum, and The Carter Center in Atlanta. One experience in their marriage nearly ended it. When the couple co-authored the book ‘Everything to Gain: Making the Most of the Rest of Your Life’ Jimmy said writing that book “almost broke up a 40-year marriage.” “It was amazing to find how differently we remembered the important events of our lives together, and how differently we reacted to them. As the writing progressed, we couldn't speak to each other about the book, and could communicate only by writing vituperative notes back and forth on our word processors,” he said in a speech in 1995. Their marriage survived the book.

Not every day, coaches who are days away from a bowl game advise their opposition. Still, South Carolina coach Shane Beamer did precisely that when speaking to local media ahead of the Citrus Bowl against Illinois New Year's Eve. Beamer revealed Mike Shula would oversee play-calling duties in place of Dowell Loggains. It was a rather easy decision based on Beamer's meeting with Loggains, who was hired as the new coach at Appalachian State earlier this month. "Mike [Shula] is the offensive coordinator and will be calling everything in the game," Beamer said, per 247Sports . "I just felt like the longer it went, the more Dowell was away from Columbia, the less beneficial it was for both sides to call (the game)," Beamer said. "Ever since we found out we were playing Illinois, coach Shula and the rest of the offensive staff [have] been putting the game plan together. Dowell hasn't been in Columbia." Beamer added Illinois will have some game-planning to do defensively, which likely means containing quarterback LaNorris Sellers. Sellers has thrown for 2,274 yards and 17 touchdowns thus far , guiding South Carolina to a 9-3 record and entering the game having won six straight. "Illinois can look at mid-2000s Alabama offense," Beamer said. "Cam Newton [on the] Carolina Panthers' offense – it's about one thing a day where I gotta go to [Shula] and ask him, 'What is this?'" Bielema is no stranger to challenges, much less coaching prominent programs. He was not only a Big Ten alumnus, starring at Iowa, but served as coach at Wisconsin from 2006-2012. In his first season in Madison, Bielema guided the Badgers to a Capital One Bowl victory against Arkansas, 17-14. The Badger defense shut down then-Razorbacks quarterback Casey Dick to under 100 yards, forcing an interception. Capping off the season with 10 wins validates Bielema's ability to win bowl games in Champaign and serves as a reminder that the former SEC coach knows how to turn back the clock. The game marks Illinois' first bowl appearance since the ReliaQuest Bowl , which concluded the 2022-23 season. Meanwhile, South Carolina attempts to win its first postseason game since 2021.None

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Billion Dollar Winner Revealed to be from the Jersey ShoreBut alongside his stark warning of the threats facing Britain and its allies, Admiral Sir Tony Radakin said there would be only a “remote chance” Russia would directly attack or invade the UK if the two countries were at war. The Chief of the Defence Staff laid out the landscape of British defence in a wide-ranging speech, after a minister warned the Army would be wiped out in as little as six months if forced to fight a war on the scale of the Ukraine conflict. The admiral cast doubt on the possibility as he gave a speech at the Royal United Services Institute (Rusi) defence think tank in London. He told the audience Britain needed to be “clear-eyed in our assessment” of the threats it faces, adding: “That includes recognising that there is only a remote chance of a significant direct attack or invasion by Russia on the United Kingdom, and that’s the same for the whole of Nato.” Moscow “knows the response will be overwhelming”, he added, but warned the nuclear deterrent needed to be “kept strong and strengthened”. Sir Tony added: “We are at the dawn of a third nuclear age, which is altogether more complex. It is defined by multiple and concurrent dilemmas, proliferating nuclear and disruptive technologies and the almost total absence of the security architectures that went before.” He listed the “wild threats of tactical nuclear use” by Russia, China building up its weapon stocks, Iran’s failure to co-operate with a nuclear deal, and North Korea’s “erratic behaviour” among the threats faced by the West. But Sir Tony said the UK’s nuclear arsenal is “the one part of our inventory of which Russia is most aware and has more impact on (President Vladimir) Putin than anything else”. Successive British governments had invested “substantial sums of money” in renewing nuclear submarines and warheads because of this, he added. The admiral described the deployment of thousands of North Korean soldiers on Ukraine’s border alongside Russian forces as the year’s “most extraordinary development”. He also signalled further deployments were possible, speaking of “tens of thousands more to follow as part of a new security pact with Russia”. Defence minister Alistair Carns earlier said a rate of casualties similar to Russia’s invasion of Ukraine would lead to the army being “expended” within six to 12 months. He said it illustrated the need to “generate depth and mass rapidly in the event of a crisis”. In comments reported by Sky News, Mr Carns, a former Royal Marines colonel, said Russia was suffering losses of around 1,500 soldiers killed or injured a day. “In a war of scale – not a limited intervention, but one similar to Ukraine – our Army for example, on the current casualty rates, would be expended – as part of a broader multinational coalition – in six months to a year,” Mr Carns said in a speech at Rusi. He added: “That doesn’t mean we need a bigger Army, but it does mean you need to generate depth and mass rapidly in the event of a crisis.” Official figures show the Army had 109,245 personnel on October 1, including 25,814 volunteer reservists. Mr Carns, the minister for veterans and people, said the UK needed to “catch up with Nato allies” to place greater emphasis on the reserves. The Prime Minister’s official spokesman said Defence Secretary John Healey had previously spoken about “the state of the armed forces that were inherited from the previous government”. The spokesman said: “It’s why the Budget invested billions of pounds into defence, it’s why we’re undertaking a strategic defence review to ensure that we have the capabilities and the investment needed to defend this country.”

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Tax reform bill conceived in bad faith — Northern eldersMCIT official underlines key role of AI in nation-buildingHyderabad, Dec 30 (IANS): Kerala outclassed Manipur 5-1 to advance to the final of the Santosh Trophy for the 16th time on Sunday, at the Gachibowli Stadium. A late Muhammad Roshal PP hat trick put the gloss on a brilliant team performance from Kerala who will now take on old rivals West Bengal for the trophy. He was rightly handed over the Player of the Match award. In the day’s first semi-final, West Bengal defeated holders Services 4-2 to move into the final for the 47th time. In a high-octane first half, it was Kerala that struck first, their brilliant midfield play paying out the dividends in the 22nd minute of the game. After some passing that shifted the play constantly, and dragged Manipur's midfield out of shape, Muhammed Riyas played a through ball into the gap towards Muhammed Ajsal. The forward let the ball go through, having anticipated his supporting forward Naseeb Rahman making a run up front. Rahman picked up the ball 25 yards from goal, entered the box, rounded the goalkeeper and finished with aplomb to give Kerala a deserved lead. Manipur had faced a deficit earlier in the tournament and were no strangers to comebacks. And so it proved. In the 30th minute, from a long throw-in, Nijo Gilbert handled the ball in the box to give Manipur a lifeline back in the game. Shunjantan Ragui made no mistake from the resulting penalty, slamming it into the roof of the net. The game's topsy turvy momentum continued in the end stages of the half. S Hajmal's spill in the danger zone from a wayward Manipur shot resulted in a frenzy hastily cleared away. And in first half injury time came the piece de resistance, a breakaway Kerala move giving them the lead once again. Played through on the left wing, Riyas drifted in towards the byline before cutting a perfect low cross to the centre of the goal. An onrushing Ajsal displayed calm and brilliant technique to finish the move with a backheel flick. Kerala went into the break in the lead. Manipur pressed harder in the second half in search of the equaliser, as Kerala dropped deeper. A moment of magic in the 73rd minute though completely killed the game. The newly introduced substitute, Muhammed Roshal stole the ball from Manipur forty yards from goal, ran towards the centre and let fly from outside the box. The ball slotted perfectly into the bottom corner. Kerala were two goals to the good, and Manipur looking at the abyss of a semi-final defeat. The third goal killed Manipur off completely and their defence capitulated completely at the end. Roshal added two more goals right at the end, one from the penalty spot in injury time to complete a brilliant victory. Kerala, however, suffered a setback when defender Manoj M received the marching orders for his second yellow card offence.

BRUSSELS , Dec. 24, 2024 /PRNewswire/ -- In an upcoming EU Reporter interview , M. Shigeo Katsu , Founding President of Nazarbayev University (NU) and a key architect of Kazakhstan's education reforms, will address the escalating scandal surrounding financial mismanagement at the country's flagship higher education institution. The crisis gained public attention following the announcement of the state audit results of Nazarbayev University. The revelations have sparked widespread concerns about transparency and oversight at one of Central Asia's most prestigious universities. Adding to the controversy are allegations of financial mismanagement involving the New Generation Foundation, the Jusan Group — entities originally established to ensure the long-term financial sustainability of NU and Nazarbayev Intellectual Schools (NIS). Questions have also been raised about the state of affairs at NU's Social Development Fund. Reports suggest that funds may have been misappropriated, triggering outrage from students, educators, and civil society. In response, a student initiative group from Nazarbayev University issued an open letter demanding the release of both the state audit and NU's internal audit of the Social Development Fund. The letter also calls for greater accountability, enhanced transparency, and the protection of students' rights. This appeal reflects mounting frustration with the university's leadership and a growing demand for immediate corrective action. Shigeo Katsu's interview will shed light on these unfolding developments. As a former leader of NU, Katsu is uniquely positioned to analyze the root causes of the crisis, critique the university's response, and discuss the broader implications for Kazakhstan's education sector. The full interview can be found here: https://www.eureporter.co/kazakhstan-2/2024/12/23/the-battle-for-nazarbayev-universitys-future-shigeo-katsu-on-financial-mismanagement-and-accountability/ The Battle for Nazarbayev University's Future: Shigeo Katsu on Financial Mismanagement and Accountability In light of recent controversies surrounding the financial governance of Nazarbayev University (NU) and Nazarbayev Intellectual Schools (NIS), an open letter from concerned students has surfaced, addressing the troubling mismanagement of funds and alleged conflicts of interest. The letter highlights a series of financial decisions that led to the unraveling of key institutions meant to ensure the long-term stability of NU and NIS. The students are particularly concerned about the fate of the Jusan Group and the Nazarbayev Fund (NGF), which were once positioned to secure the financial future of these two leading educational institutions. Instead, they allege that significant funds were misappropriated and whole organizations lost, leading to the collapse of what was once a promising financial structure. In response, Shigeo Katsu , the Founding President of Nazarbayev University, has also written an open letter , received by EU Reporter, addressing the ongoing crisis and providing his perspective on the unfolding situation. In his letter, Katsu outlines the rationale of engagement in the financial sector and the erosion of the initial vision for NU, highlighting the role of key financial institutions like Jusan Bank and the NGF in securing a stable future for the university and NIS. He draws attention to the series of decisions that led to the loss of the former and calls for urgent remedial actions to prevent further damage to the institutions' credibility and financial stability . In this exclusive interview with EU Reporter , Shigeo Katsu , the Founding President of Nazarbayev University, sheds light on these pressing issues. He discusses the audit findings, the role of Jusan Bank , and what must be done to restore trust and secure the future of NU and NIS. Bio: Mr. Shigeo Katsu is the Founding President of Nazarbayev University. He held the position of President from December 2010 until June 2023 . He was Chair of the Board of Trustees of an affiliated secondary school system, the Nazarbayev Intellectual Schools, and of the University's hospital system. Prior to the assignments in Kazakhstan , over the course of a 30-year career at the World Bank, Mr. Shigeo Katsu held various positions including leading financial sector reform support for China , Director for Cote d'Ivoire , and Vice President for Europe and Central Asia . After his retirement from the World Bank, he served for a few years on the US board of a youth-oriented international development NGO. Between 2011 and 2015 he was an Advisory Panel member of the ASEAN+3 Macroeconomic Research Office (AMRO). Questions: - We have exclusively published your open letter and anticipate that it will generate a significant response. What drove you to write it, particularly in light of the misuse of funds intended to ensure the long-term financial stability of Nazarbayev University (NU) and Nazarbayev Intellectual Schools (NIS)? The decision to write the open letter was not made lightly. It was driven by a profound sense of responsibility to the students, faculty, and broader community of Nazarbayev University (NU) and Nazarbayev Intellectual Schools (NIS). These institutions were established with a vision to create world-class educational hubs in Kazakhstan and establish a center of excellence for academic research. Ensuring their financial independence and long-term stability is a core requirement to achieve the two institutions' mission. However, recent developments revealed through state and internal audits have exposed serious breaches of trust. The misuse of funds from entities like the University's Social Development Fund, New Generation Foundation, and Jusan Group directly threatens the sustainability of NU and NIS. These funds were meant to build up and guarantee the financial security of the institutions. Instead, we now see signs of embezzlement, mismanagement, and a concerning lack of accountability. The role played by key figures like the directors and executives of NGF, of Aslan Sarinzhipov (Executive Vice President of NU, a former Minister of Education) and Kadisha Dairova (Vice President for Student Affairs and International Cooperation, Nazarbayev University) only adds to the gravity of the situation. By writing the letter, my goal was to bring transparency to the issue and to mobilize public attention and international scrutiny. NU and NIS were founded on principles of meritocracy, transparency, and academic freedom. If we allow these values to be compromised, we risk undoing more than a decade of progress. The letter serves as a call for accountability, reform, and most importantly, protection of the future of Kazakhstan's youth. - Many students and alumni of NU have expressed their concern over the lowering of admission standards and the shift away from international standards. How do you assess these changes, and do you see them as diverging from the original vision for NU? NU was conceived as a model of excellence , designed to meet international standards in research, teaching, and governance. One of its founding principles was merit-based admission , which ensured that students were selected solely based on their ability and potential. This meritocratic foundation was not only an academic principle but a reflection of NU's mission to transform Kazakhstan's education system. Students, alumni, faculty and staff have worked hard to build NU's name. Now students, alumni and parents are rightly concerned that the lowering of admission standards undermines this mission and risks eroding the university's reputation both domestically and internationally. Such changes create the perception that NU is moving away from its original vision of being a world-class institution. To restore confidence, NU must reaffirm its commitment to international standards, transparency, and academic rigor. Reverting to merit-based admissions and prioritizing excellence will send a clear message that the institution remains steadfast in its mission. In the Open Letter, I stated that in theory, a policy of opening the entry door wider, but then be resolutely strict in terms of progression and graduation based on academic integrity and merit could work. There are some cases globally. However, it can only work if there is a full commitment to integrity and merit, openness and transparency, and NU's original values are upheld. But unfortunately, what I have observed and heard about recent developments at NU does not make me optimistic. While administration is supposedly in a belt-tightening mode, new senior positions were created and filled with scant regard for a proper hiring process and qualification. Conflict of interest and restrictions on hiring family members have been discarded. These are just a few of the institutional changes that will inevitably bleed over into the academic fabric as well. Is this the example that senior management wants to present to our students? - Do you believe the current situation, where the financial foundations like the Social Development Fund and New Generation Foundation were mismanaged, reflects a broader crisis within Kazakhstan's governance and democracy? Absolutely, but to be fair, this corporate governance crisis is not just limited to Kazakhstan . The findings of the internal audit conducted by NU on the Social Development Fund (SDF) reveal a systemic absence of check and balances and accountability that extends beyond these institutions. Mismanagement and theft, such as those involving Aslan Sarinzhipov , have not only undermined NU and NIS but also shaken public trust in Kazakhstan's leadership. The financial institutions linked to NU and NIS—Nazarbayev Fund, New Generation Foundation, and Jusan Group — were designed to guarantee long-term financial stability for education in Kazakhstan , securing the futures of NU and NIS for decades. However, NGF and Jusan Group's systematic depletion and dismantling highlight the country's struggle with accountability and the need for deep structural reform. This mismanagement reflects broader governance failings—particularly a lack of oversight, transparency, and mechanisms to prevent conflicts of interest. I cannot pronounce myself on the current status of the NF, but I would not be surprised if one discovers similar shortcomings there as well. I had called for an audit for some time until my departure but was not successful. The impact extends beyond education, affecting the economic and social fabric of Kazakhstan . Addressing these issues requires not just reforms within these organizations but also a renewed commitment to governance, accountability, and emphasis on establishing the rule of law. - With the financial stability once promised by entities like the NGF now in jeopardy, how do you envision NU's future without those foundational guarantees? The original intent of the Nazarbayev Fund, New Generation Foundation, and Jusan Group was to provide NU and NIS with long-term financial stability. These entities were carefully designed to ensure that Kazakhstan's leading educational institutions could eventually operate in a manner less affected by state budget fluctuations. However, as the audits reveal, these institutions have been systematically mismanaged and looted, jeopardizing the financial future of NU and NIS. NU's survival and success now depend on a bold and transparent strategy. The first step is to rebuild trust with the public, students, and alumni by publishing the findings of both the state audit of NU and the internal audit of SDF. Then, those responsible are held accountable. Financially, NU must re-establish a diversified funding model. This includes rebuilding its endowments and enhancing additional revenue streams, such as a logical and sound tuition policy, executive education and collaboration with industry and business in the form of contract research. Transparency and governance reform will be key to attract donors and investors who believe in NU's mission and potential. - The Supreme Audit Chamber of Kazakhstan , in its state audit, reported the mismanagement of 73.5 billion tenge at Nazarbayev University , as well as allegations of half a billion tenge being used illegally. What is your opinion on this, and how should the university address governance and corruption issues? I have not had the opportunity to access the state audit report, thus it is difficult to comment. If the cited amount in mismanagement of 73.5 billion tenge over six years is true, it is scandalous. However, we do not know what the auditors' definition and criteria of mismanagement is. So, let's first find out what the report actually says. What is clear, however, is the outcome of a 2023 internal audit of NU's Social Development Fund (SDF) , and it is sobering. This SDF audit reveals a blatant disregard of corporate governance principles, where individuals entrusted with university resources prioritized personal gain over the mission of NU. The audit revealed that SDF management led by current NU Executive Vice President Aslan Sarinzhipov constructed an intricate web of subsidiary entities, including abroad, to systematically evade the oversight and control of the University. Funds ( over 14 billion tenge ) meant to assist students and faculty were used for personal gains of Aslan Sarinzhipov and questionable deals. Unfortunately, NU senior officials such as Vice President Kadisha Dairova participated in such schemes. When I voiced my concern earlier over the developments at NU, it is largely because of the track record of senior officials there. For NU to move forward, it must adopt zero-tolerance policies for corruption, demand accountability from those responsible, and reform its governance structures to ensure transparency. - Why do some claim there is a lack of funds for NU and NIS, despite the promises of financial stability from their endowment funds? The claim of a lack of funds is a direct consequence of the systematic looting of resources from the New Generation Foundation and Jusan Group. These entities were explicitly designed to contribute to NU and NIS' long-term financial sustainability against the backdrop of reduced state funding. However, as I described in my Open Letter, these innovative financial structures have been undermined by mismanagement, and outright theft. For instance: Rebuilding financial stability will require recovering stolen assets, reforming governance structures, and restoring public trust through full transparency and accountability. - Given the scale of financial mismanagement, what steps are necessary to ensure accountability for those involved, including senior officials? Accountability must begin with transparency. First, all findings from the audits should be made public, and independent investigations should be conducted to identify those responsible. No individual, regardless of rank or influence, should be above scrutiny. Second, legal consequences must follow where wrongdoing is found. Kazakhstan's legal system must demonstrate its independence and commitment to justice by prosecuting those who exploited these funds. Finally, governance reforms are essential. NU and its associated entities must implement stricter checks and balances, including external audits, whistleblower protections, and oversight committees with independent members. These steps are not just about rectifying past mistakes—they're about ensuring a future where such mismanagement cannot happen again. - The audit findings were just the beginning of uncovering deeper issues. Is there more information you can share about how these financial foundations were exploited and what this means for the future of NU and NIS? The patterns that have emerged—opaque transactions, conflicts of interest, and questionable settlements—are deeply troubling. For instance, the transfer of assets to private hands under unclear terms raises red flags about the intentions behind such decisions. This exploitation puts the futures of NU and NIS at risk. These institutions were designed to be financially independent, insulated from political and economic volatility. The weakening of their financial foundations erodes their ability to deliver on their missions and betrays the trust of the Kazakhstani people, who have invested in these institutions through their taxes. The way forward requires not just recovering lost assets but rebuilding the governance systems that allowed this exploitation to occur. - Nazarbayev University was founded with a mission to serve as a model for higher education in Kazakhstan , supported by funds like those from the Nazarbayev Fund and New Generation Foundation. What was your original vision for the university, and how did these funds play a critical role in realizing that vision? The vision for NU was bold: to create an institution that could compete with the best universities in the world while serving as a model for higher education reform in Kazakhstan . From day one, we envisioned NU as a hub for innovation, research, and leadership development—a place where the brightest minds could come together to solve the challenges of tomorrow. However, one should not forget that universities, in particular research universities, are a long-term endeavor. They are meant to educate and develop generations upon generations of leaders and professionals in a broad range of sectors, and thus contribute to the scientific, economic, and societal wealth of countries. Building a strong institution that can meet the test of time requires long-term and unwavering commitments to foundational values such as integrity, meritocracy, excellence, openness and transparency. But of course, strong financial support from government and other stakeholders is needed, especially in the first decades. Thus, it was understood that NU would be dependent on state funding (through education grants and capital investments) for the initial decades of its existence, while in the meantime it would develop other sources of financing such as through endowment funds, tuition, and contract research. The Nazarbayev Fund, NGF and the Jusan Group were integral parts of this vision. This overall construct allowed us to recruit world-class faculty, develop state-of-the-art facilities, and provide scholarships to talented students, many from underprivileged backgrounds. These resources weren't just financial—they were a vote of confidence in NU's mission and a recognition of the transformative power of education. The loss of these resources is a significant setback, but I do hope that NU can recover. The university must focus on rebuilding trust with its stakeholders—students, faculty, alumni, and the public. This starts with transparency in financial management and governance. Diversifying funding sources will be crucial. This includes rebuilding its endowments, engaging with the philanthropic community, and developing innovative revenue streams. But most importantly, NU must stay true to its mission and values. Financial stability is important, but it must never come at the cost of compromising the university's integrity or academic excellence. Restoring NU's credibility begins with transparency. For instance, the university must share the audit report with stakeholders, and openly address any major shortcomings highlighted in the audit, including financial mismanagement and governance failures. An independent investigation, followed by public disclosure of findings, will demonstrate a commitment to accountability. Next, an affirmation of NU's commitment to its foundational values and principles is needed. Next, institutional reforms are essential. This includes introducing stronger oversight mechanisms for financial and administrative processes, ensuring that governance boards are staffed with individuals of the highest integrity and independence, and that management, faculty and staff are recruited on the basis of transparency and merit. Fourth, NU must recommit itself to its founding mission of academic excellence. This means maintaining rigorous admission standards, prioritizing high-quality faculty recruitment, and fostering research that addresses national and global challenges. And finally, engaging the NU community—students, faculty, alumni, and parents—in shaping the university's path forward is critical. A transparent, inclusive process will rebuild trust and reaffirm NU's position as a leader in higher education. Educational reform is not just critical—it is foundational to Kazakhstan's economic recovery and long-term stability. The pandemic exposed vulnerabilities in education systems worldwide, but it also underscored the importance of adaptability, innovation, and resilience. For Kazakhstan , investing in education means investing in the future. A well-educated population is essential for diversifying the economy, attracting foreign investment, and fostering innovation. Institutions like NU and NIS must lead the way by setting benchmarks for quality and demonstrating the value of education in driving economic progress. Moreover, reform must focus on equity. Expanding access to high-quality education for students from socially vulnerable backgrounds will ensure that economic recovery benefits all segments of society, not just the privileged few. - How do you see the role of institutions like NU and NIS in not only providing quality education but also contributing to economic growth in Kazakhstan , especially when financial stability is threatened? NU and NIS are more than educational institutions—they are catalysts for economic growth and social development. By equipping students with critical thinking skills, technical expertise, and a global perspective, they prepare the workforce needed to diversify Kazakhstan's economy. Their impact extends beyond classrooms. NU's research contributes to solving national challenges in areas like energy, healthcare, and technology. Meanwhile, NIS fosters innovation and leadership at the secondary education level, creating a pipeline of talent that benefits universities and industries alike. To sustain this role, NU and NIS must secure their financial stability. This includes strengthening governance, diversifying funding sources, and forging partnerships with the private sector and international organizations. These institutions are vital to Kazakhstan's future, and their success is intertwined with the country's broader economic ambitions. - Could the model used by NU and supported by the Nazarbayev Fund be applied in other countries, or does it require a uniquely Kazakh approach to work effectively? The NU model is innovative, but its core principles—integrity, meritocracy, autonomy, and a focus on global best practices—are universally applicable. Many countries could benefit from establishing institutions that prioritize excellence and align with international standards. That said, successful implementation depends on adapting the model to local contexts. Kazakhstan's approach benefited from strong initial financial and political backing, and a vision that emphasized independence from political and state bureaucratic interference. Replicating this requires careful consideration of governance structures, funding mechanisms, autonomy and other values, and cultural factors. In countries where philanthropic traditions or financial resources are limited, the model may need to rely more on public-private partnerships or international collaborations. Ultimately, the NU experience demonstrates that ambitious goals in education are achievable with the right vision, leadership, and long-term commitment support. - What lessons do you hope others will learn from the experience of the NGF, Jusan Bank , and the financial turmoil at NU? The story of NU and its financial affiliates offers a critical lesson: no institution, no matter how noble its mission, is immune to mismanagement and corruption without strong governance. NU and NIS' financial pillars, namely the Nazarbayev Fund, NGF, Jusan Group, but also the SDF and NIS' Corporate Development Fund were designed to guarantee long-term financial sustainability, yet their exploitation demonstrates how quickly trust can be eroded when transparency and accountability are neglected. For any endowment fund or financial institution, the following lessons are clear: NU's experience is a cautionary tale but also an opportunity. By addressing these failures head-on, NU can emerge as a model for how institutions can learn from adversity and rebuild stronger than before. View original content to download multimedia: https://www.prnewswire.com/news-releases/nazarbayev-university-crisis-shigeo-katsu-demands-audit-transparency-302338886.html SOURCE EU ReporterHaving the time to get to know mothers and their babies can be a rare gift for midwives but it is one those working at the Listowel postnatal hub in Kerry have in abundance. This is one of five networks of hubs or clinics connected to maternity hospitals around Ireland now offering postnatal care. Women attend them after giving birth for midwife-led care and support. The hubs were set up when a national maternity experience survey in 2019 revealed gaps in post-pregnancy care. Almost one in three women said they did not get mental health support after pregnancy and many also said their physical health was not checked. On walking into the Listowel hub the words 'bright' and 'calm' spring to mind with the rooms located within the recently-renovated community hospital. Rhowena Woodward is a staff midwife for the Kerry hubs. “You develop relationships with women here that I think sets them up for positive parenting and a positive future,” she said. “It just feels like you are making a difference to their lives and their babies’ lives. It’s great, you are not rushed off your feet. You are not stressed and you can be there in the moment.” The team of four midwives see about 12 women every day, with appointments of 30 minutes or longer if needed. “Our offices are in Centrepoint in Tralee, so we’re in Tralee two days a week,” she said. The rest of the week is split between Listowel, Killarney, Dingle, and Cahersiveen. They have close links with the maternity unit at University Hospital Kerry. “I think continuity of care is so important so here, every time you see the woman, you are not flicking through the notes to try and remind yourself (who she is),” she said. You already know her, you know her history, you know if you are going to be worried about her mental health and the social situations she is in. You know the medical history and what to look out for She previously worked with the NHS in England where postnatal care is usually available for up to 15 days. However, the Irish hubs offer up to six weeks of support. In Kerry, the hubs also offer antenatal care for pregnant women which is not common elsewhere. “Personally, as a midwife, continuity of care is a really big thing for me and these hubs mean that we can provide that care — we are less likely to miss things,” she said. “You’ve got that rapport with the woman so you’re more likely to pick up on things that might get missed in the hospital or that the woman might not trust you to disclose, if there’s domestic violence or mental health, anything like that.” They are also more likely to notice if infections including sepsis are developing after a caesarean section, she added. Women can get help too with incontinence, pelvic floor problems or mental health issues, including being referred for help if necessary. Concerns such as postnatal depression are often not apparent until weeks after pregnancy, she explained. “So there is a need for the postnatal care and the care we have here is exceptional,” she said. Overall she sees the hubs as “a step towards” the vision of community care set out in 2016 in the national maternity strategy. When she first moved here from the UK, she said it was a shock to see doctors taking the lead and midwives taking a back seat. "So it’s nice at our low-risk antenatal clinics where the midwife leads it. “And again we go to the doctors if we need them. And there is absolutely a need for them but it’s nice for the low-risk women as well to see midwives because that’s what they need at that stage.” 'A happy place to work' Susan Collins is a healthcare assistant with the hub, having recently transferred from hospital work. “It’s just a happy place to work I think,” she said. “I’ve been in the hospital since 2015 and this is the happiest I’ve been. I love getting up to go to my work in the morning.” She had popped in to say hello to baby Paddy Kennelly whose mother Roisin Considine was talking about her experiences in the hospital. “There’s a real sense that they know who you were and what stage of your pregnancy you were at, it’s reassuring,” the first-time mother said. Dr Cliona Murphy, national clinical director of the National Women and Infants Health Programme (NWHIP), said the hubs supplement existing community services. “They are women-centred, rather than hospital-centred and that is a really important aspect of it, I think,” she said. There are now five hub networks including also Cork, Kilkenny, Sligo, and Portiuncula. Each is connected to a local maternity hospital. “We have a good public health system, and you don’t want to supplant that, but women felt that is focused more on the baby rather than themselves,” she said. “So this is seen as supplemental, it is not usurping that service.” Research will be done to measure the impact of these hubs. “We have received funding to expand that (hub network) out, so there’s going to be four more hubs,” she said. “There have been expressions of interest from sites, and so the proposals will be made to NWHIP and four will be successful.” Those proposals will go before Angela Dunne, NWHIP lead midwife, and will be assessed by a panel. Dr Murphy added: “Even for those who will not be successful in this round, there is potential for the future I think.” So why only five so far in light of their success? Dr Murphy defended this saying planning, funding applications, and tweaking of those plans takes time. “This was not a top-down plan from NWHIP. Principles were agreed, but at local level, there was ownership of the local teams as to what would work best for them and how best to run it,” she said. The hubs are integrated into the wider maternity system including the peri-natal mental health service, GPs and public health nurses. On the ground, she agreed the sense of having time with women is crucial, saying "it gives a space for a woman to ask questions” of midwives about their birth experience. “I do see that maybe societally we have lost the village feel, and where you had your mother or grandmother around to ask those questions (we no longer do),” she said. This is a place where in a supportive environment you can discuss what’s normal or what is not without having to queue up necessarily She emphasised too the hubs are not necessarily only for women with low-risk pregnancies. A woman who had an emergency Caesarean-section could benefit from extra supports after leaving hospital too, she suggested. Recruitment has not been difficult. “The underlying ethos of being a midwife is to be 'with woman' so they are popular for people who’ve worked as midwives in hospitals and they’re moving into this space. They seem to be getting a lot of job satisfaction and positive feedback,” she said. She added in reference to the national staffing picture: “now going forward with the limits on recruiting, there may be some challenges”. Each hub is slightly different, she said with local midwives making choices about what will work best. “It's really about hearing back from women as to what would work,” she said. The mum For Roisin Considine, the biggest difference between the Listowel postnatal maternity hub and a busy hospital was everybody knew her name and was always glad she came. The hub, located in Listowel Community Hospital, is closely connected to the maternity unit at University Hospital Kerry. Women give birth in the hospital but are offered care afterwards here for up to six weeks. “You get the exact same care if not better here. You are one-to-one here, whereas in the hospital you might not get that,” she said. “There’s a lot more patients in at the one time there, but you see all the same midwives here all the time.” Experienced midwives see about 12 women every day with appointments of around 30 minutes although that can be flexible. “You were really looked after, everyone is very friendly and very nice,” she said. “Every time you come in they know you, it’s not that they are looking back through their notes to see who you are." As she talks, her baby — six-month-old Paddy Kennelly — grins around at the midwives as if he knows they helped his parents through those months. A passing healthcare assistant pops her head in when she hears he is in the room to say hello and get a big baby smile. Roisin describes how when she went for her booking appointment in Tralee last winter, they said antenatal care was also available in Listowel. This came as “a relief” as it cut out a big commute from their home in Ballybunion during those cold months. “It’s 15 minutes (to Listowel) compared to nearly 40 minutes — say about 35 to 40 minutes — to get to Tralee. It was a huge help definitely,” she said. “It was brilliant, no waiting time or anything. You are in and out in 20 minutes — you could be nearly two hours inside in Tralee if you are going in there. So it was fantastic to have.” She only went to the hospital for scans and Paddy’s birth. Listowel is one of a growing network of HSE hubs around the country, although some focus only on postnatal care. Roisin found the easy access to antenatal care just as useful as support after birth: “Especially when you are working, you don’t have to take so much time off.” The first-time mother added: "It was good to know there were people here closer if you had any questions. You knew who you were ringing if you had any concerns.” Help with breastfeeding for example is available. Even though she did face many complications as it turned out, she said it was “brilliant” to know the option was there. “There's a real sense that they know who you were and what stage of your pregnancy you were at, it’s reassuring,” she said. She joked the free parking was welcome as well. And with that, she had to hit the road because baby Paddy’s swimming coach was waiting for him.