By JOSH BOAK WASHINGTON (AP) — President Joe Biden said Tuesday he was “stupid” not to put his own name on pandemic relief checks in 2021, noting that Donald Trump had done so in 2020 and likely got credit for helping people out through this simple, effective act of branding. Biden did the second-guessing as he delivered a speech at the Brookings Institution defending his economic record and challenging Trump to preserve Democratic policy ideas when he returns to the White House next month. Related Articles National Politics | Trump taps SF legal firebrand to lead civil rights enforcement National Politics | How the FDA allows companies to add secret ingredients to our food National Politics | Biden issues veto threat on bill expanding federal judiciary as partisan split emerges National Politics | Kimberly Guilfoyle who? Donald Trump Jr. ‘flaunts’ new romance with Palm Beach socialite: report National Politics | The Onion’s bid to buy Infowars is still in court As Biden focused on his legacy with his term ending, he suggested Trump should keep the Democrats’ momentum going and ignore the policies of his allies. The president laid out favorable recent economic data but acknowledged his rare public regret that he had not been more self-promotional in advertising the financial support provided by his administration as the country emerged from the pandemic. “I signed the American Rescue Plan, the most significant economic recovery package in our history, and also learned something from Donald Trump,” Biden said at the Washington-based think tank. “He signed checks for people for 7,400 bucks ... and I didn’t. Stupid.” The decision by the former reality TV star and real estate developer to add his name to the checks sent by the U.S. Treasury to millions of Americans struggling during the coronavirus marked the first time a president’s name appeared on any IRS payments. Biden and Vice President Kamala Harris , who replaced him as the Democratic nominee , largely failed to convince the American public of the strength of the economy. The addition of 16 million jobs, funding for infrastructure, new factories and investments in renewable energy were not enough to overcome public exhaustion over inflation, which spiked in 2022 and left many households coping with elevated grocery, gasoline and housing costs. More than 6 in 10 voters in November’s election described the economy as “poor” or “not so good,” according to AP VoteCast, an extensive survey of the electorate. Trump won nearly 7 in 10 of the voters who felt the economy was in bad shape, paving the way for a second term as president after his 2020 loss to Biden. Biden used his speech to argue that Trump was inheriting a strong economy that is the envy of the world. The inflation rate fell without a recession that many economists had viewed as inevitable, while the unemployment rate is a healthy 4.2% and applications to start new businesses are at record levels. Biden called the numbers under his watch “a new set of benchmarks to measure against the next four years.” “President-elect Trump is receiving the strongest economy in modern history,” said Biden, who warned that Trump’s planned tax cuts could lead to massive deficits or deep spending cuts. He also said that Trump’s promise of broad tariffs on foreign imports would be a mistake, part of a broader push Tuesday by the administration to warn against Trump’s threatened action. Treasury Secretary Janet Yellen also issued a word of caution about them at a summit of The Wall Street Journal’s CEO Council. “I think the imposition of broad based tariffs, at least of the type that have been discussed, almost all economists agree this would raise prices on American consumers,” she said. Biden was also critical of Trump allies who have pushed Project 2025 , a policy blueprint from the Heritage Foundation that calls for a complete overhaul of the federal government. Trump has disavowed participation in it, though parts were written by his allies and overlap with his stated views on economics, immigration, education policy and civil rights. “I pray to God the president-elect throws away Project 2025,” Biden said. “I think it would be an economic disaster.” Associated Press writer Fatima Hussein in Washington contributed to this report.

South Korea's President Yoon Suk-yeol and seven others have been listed on the arrest list, marking a significant development in the country's political landscape. The decision to include such high-profile figures on the roster brings to light the growing scrutiny and accountability being demanded of public officials, regardless of their status or position.Hunter’s Home, Oklahoma’s only remaining pre–Civil War plantation, is offering visitors a glimpse into 1800s holiday customs through its “Winter at Hunter’s Home: An 1850s Christmas Traditions” program. The event began this week and continues through Dec. 13, showcasing how the holidays were celebrated in a simpler time. “Christmas was the one day the workers here got the day off, and it was a big celebration,” said Jody Stamper, the historical interpreter at Hunter’s Home. “It was a moment of joy and connection, even amidst a challenging time.” The program features live demonstrations, authentic decorations, and hands-on activities, encouraging visitors to immerse themselves in the past. Staff dressed in period attire recreate scenes from the 1800s, offering insight into the lives of the plantation’s residents, from the family who lived there to the enslaved workers who maintained its operations. Built in 1845, Hunter’s Home is a rare relic of Oklahoma’s antebellum period. Known through recent years as the George M. Murrell Home, it was constructed by George and Minerva Murrell, who moved from Tennessee during the Cherokee Removal. The Christmas program allows visitors to learn about traditional 19th-century Southern holiday customs. Decorations of the time included evergreen boughs, handmade garlands, and paper ornaments, simple yet elegant designs that reflect the resourcefulness of the time. “I love working here; there’s something new to learn every day,” said Alaina Spencer, an employee at Hunter’s Home. “It’s incredible to see visitors connect with the past, especially during the holidays, when traditions feel so personal.” For many attendees, the program’s focus on simplicity resonates with contemporary trends. Social media platforms like TikTok have popularized the idea of “slow holidays,” emphasizing homemade ornaments, baked goods, and DIY gifts. The trend mirrors a growing desire to escape the commercialization of the season and embrace meaningful, sustainable traditions. “It’s fascinating to see how people today are rediscovering things our ancestors did out of necessity,” Stamper said. “Homemade decorations, like dried oranges and hand-sewn stockings, weren’t just beautiful; they were practical and affordable.” The program also delves into the complexities of life at Hunter’s Home, particularly the experiences of the enslaved people who worked on the plantation. Employees aim to provide a full picture of the home’s history, emphasizing the resilience of those who found joy and community even in challenging circumstances. “Understanding the full story of this home is crucial,” Stamper said. “It’s a reminder that history is nuanced, and the holidays meant different things to different people here.” Visitors can participate in activities such as making ornaments and paper garlands, which help bring history to life. The interactive elements create a festive, engaging atmosphere for all ages. As the event continues, staff at Hunter’s Home hope visitors leave with a deeper appreciation for the past and a renewed sense of the season’s spirit. “We want people to leave with a deeper understanding of the past and how it can inform our present,” Spencer said. “These traditions remind us that you don’t need a lot to make the holidays magical.” This holiday season, as families across the country bake from scratch and craft their own decorations, they may find themselves connected to the simpler traditions of yesteryear, traditions preserved and celebrated at Hunter’s Home. Check it out Hunter’s Home is open year-round, offering various programs exploring 19th-century life. For more information, visit the Oklahoma Historical Society’s website at okhistory.org .

Another standout feature of "Brothers of Four Seas" is its stellar ensemble cast, led by veteran actors such as Tony Leung, Andy Lau, and Louis Koo. Their performances breathe life into the complex and morally ambiguous characters, making them feel relatable and human despite their criminal deeds. The chemistry between the actors is palpable, adding depth and authenticity to the relationships portrayed on screen.Smile, were you and your phone caught out on Macquarie Pass?

Hezbollah fired into a disputed border zone held by Israel on Monday after multiple Israeli strikes inside Lebanon since a ceasefire took hold last week. The militant group said the volley, its first during the truce, was a warning shot in response to what it called repeated Israeli violations . Israeli leaders threatened to retaliate, and within hours, Israel’s military carried out a string of strikes in southern Lebanon, state media reported. There was no immediate word on casualties or what was struck. Israel has said its strikes in since the ceasefire began Wednesday have been in response to unspecified Hezbollah violations, and that under the truce deal it reserves the right to retaliate. Hezbollah began launching its attacks in solidarity with Hamas militants who are fighting Israel in the Gaza Strip. The war in Gaza began when Hamas-led militants stormed into southern Israel, killing some 1,200 people, mostly civilians, and taking around 250 people hostage . Israel’s blistering retaliatory offensive has killed at least 44,429 Palestinians , more than half of them women and children, according to Gaza’s Health Ministry, which does not say how many of the dead were combatants. Israel says it has killed over 17,000 militants, without providing evidence. The war in Gaza has destroyed vast areas of the coastal enclave and displaced 90% of the population of 2.3 million, often multiple times . Here’s the Latest: WASHINGTON — U.S. President-elect Donald Trump is demanding the immediate release of Israeli hostages still being held in Gaza, saying that if they are not freed before he is sworn into office for a second term there will be “HELL TO PAY.” “Please let this TRUTH serve to represent that if the hostages are not released prior to January 20, 2025, the date that I proudly assume Office as President of the United States, there will be ALL HELL TO PAY in the Middle East, and for those in charge who perpetrated these atrocities against Humanity,” Trump wrote in a post on his Truth Social site . He added that, “Those responsible will be hit harder than anybody has been hit in the long and storied History of the United States of America. RELEASE THE HOSTAGES NOW!” It was not immediately clear whether Trump was threatening to directly involve the U.S. military in Israel’s ongoing campaign against Hamas in Gaza. Trump allies have said he hopes there will be a ceasefire and hostage release deal before he returns to office early next year. The war in Gaza began when Hamas-led militants stormed into southern Israel, killing some 1,200 people, mostly civilians, and taking around 250 people hostage on Oct. 7, 2023. Some 100 are still held inside Gaza , around two-thirds believed to be alive. WASHINGTON — Senior American officials have had conversations with Israelis to raise questions about some of the strikes they have carried out against Hezbollah since a ceasefire went into place but have not found the Israelis to be in gross violation of the terms of the ceasefire, according to a U.S. official familiar with the matter. The official, who was not authorized to comment publicly about the sensitive conversations with the Israelis, said those conversations were part of a mechanism that was created to ensure that ceasefire agreement is implemented. “This is that mechanism working,” the official added. White House national security spokesman John Kirby on Monday that “largely speaking the ceasefire is holding.” “We’ve gone from, you know dozens of strikes, you know, down to one a day maybe two a day,” Kirby told told reporters aboard Air Force One as President Joe Biden made his way for a visit to Angola. “That’s a tremendous, tremendous reduction. And we’re going to keep trying and see what we can do to get it down to zero so that both sides are fully implementing it. But, this is, this is the only it’s only a, a week or so old.” — By Aamer Madhani JERUSALEM — Hezbollah fired into a disputed border zone held by Israel on Monday, the militant group’s first attack since its ceasefire with Israel took hold last week, after Lebanon accused Israel of violating the truce more than 50 times in recent days. The Israeli military said two projectiles were launched toward Mount Dov, a disputed Israeli-held territory known as Shebaa Farms in Lebanon, where the borders of Lebanon, Syria, and Israel meet. Israel said the projectiles fell in open areas and no injuries were reported. Hezbollah said in a statement that it fired on an Israeli military position in the area as a “defensive and warning response” after what it called “repeated violations” of the ceasefire deal by Israel. It said complaints to mediators tasked with monitoring the ceasefire “were futile in stopping these violations.” The U.S.- and French-brokered ceasefire came into effect on Wednesday calling for a 60-day halt in fighting, aiming to end more than a year of exchanges of fire between Hezbollah and Israel. Since then, Israel has carried out a number of strikes in Lebanon, most recently on Monday, when a drone strike killed a man on a motorcycle in southern Lebanon and another hit a Lebanese army bulldozer in the northeastern town of Hermel, wounding a soldier. The Lebanese army had stayed on the sidelines of the war between Israel and Hezbollah. Israel says the strikes are in response to Hezbollah violations of the ceasefire, without giving specifics. BEIRUT — Lebanon’s parliament speaker on Monday accused Israel of committing 54 breaches of the ceasefire that ended the war between Hezbollah and Israel, demanding urgent intervention to halt what he called “flagrant violations.” Speaking to the Lebanese newspaper Al Joumhouria, Parliament Speaker Nabih Berri condemned Israel’s “aggressive actions,” including the alleged demolition of homes in border villages, the persistent overflight of Israeli reconnaissance drones, and airstrikes that have caused casualties. The Israeli military did not immediately respond to a request for comment on Berri’s assertions. Israel says it reserves the right under the ceasefire deal to respond to perceived ceasefire violations. An Israeli drone strike on Monday hit a Lebanese army military bulldozer in the northeastern town of Hermel, wounding a soldier, the Lebanese army said in a statement. Also on Monday, an Israeli drone strike targeting a motorcycle in Jdeidet Marjayoun in southern Lebanon killed one person, the Lebanese Health Ministry said. In Bint Jbeil province, a drone strike injured one person, the state-run National News Agency said. On Saturday, two people were killed in an airstrike on Marjayoun province, Lebanon’s state media said. Berri called on the technical committee established to monitor the ceasefire to take immediate action, urging it to “oblige Israel to halt its violations and withdraw from Lebanese territories without delay.” He said that Lebanon and Hezbollah have fully adhered to the terms of the ceasefire since the early hours of Wednesday. Berri is the leader of the Shiite Amal movement, which is closely allied with the Shiite militant group Hezbollah. BEIRUT — Lebanon’s state-run National News Agency said Monday one person was killed in an Israeli drone strike that hit a motorcycle, while the Lebanese army said that a soldier was wounded in an Israeli strike on a military bulldozer at an army base. The Israeli military said that it carried out a series of strikes in Lebanon on Sunday and Monday, including one in the same area where the soldier was said to have been wounded. It said it struck several military vehicles in Lebanon’s Bekaa province as well as strikes on Hezbollah militants in southern Lebanon. The incidents underscored the fragility of a ceasefire agreement between Israel and Hezbollah reached after nearly 14 months of cross-border fighting. Since the ceasefire went into effect on Wednesday, Israel has struck several times in response to what it says have been ceasefire violations by Hezbollah. Lebanon has accused Israel of violating the deal but so far Hezbollah has not resumed its rocket fire. Israeli Foreign Minister Gideon Saar on Monday rejected accusations that Israel is violating the tenuous ceasefire agreement, saying it was responding to Hezbollah violations. In a post on X, Saar said that he made that point in a call with his French counterpart, Jean-Noël Barrot. France, along with the U.S., helped broker the deal and is part of an international monitoring committee meant to ensure the sides uphold their commitments. Israel says that it reserves the right under the deal to respond to perceived ceasefire violations. TEL AVIV, Israel — The Israeli military said Monday an Israeli American soldier who was believed to have been taken hostage alive on Oct. 7, 2023, is now presumed to have been killed during Hamas’ attack and his body taken into Gaza. Neutra, 21, was a New York native who enlisted in the Israeli military and was captured when Hamas attacked southern Israel. Neutra’s parents, Ronen and Orna, led a public campaign while he was thought to be alive for their son’s freedom. They spoke at protests in the U.S. and Israel, addressed the Republican National Convention this year and kept up ties with the Biden administration in their crusade to secure their son’s release. In a statement announcing the death, the military did not say how it came to the conclusion over Neutra’s fate. He was one of seven American Israelis still held in Gaza, four of whom are now said to be dead. Hamas released a video of one, Edan Alexander, over the weekend, indicating he was still alive. In late summer, Israel said Hamas killed Hersh Goldberg-Polin , another prominent Israeli American hostage, along with five other captives, whose bodies the Israeli military recovered. The war in Gaza began when Hamas-led militants stormed into southern Israel on Oct. 7, 2023, killing some 1,200 people, mostly civilians, and taking around 250 hostage. Some 100 captives are still held inside Gaza , around two-thirds believed to be alive. Iraqi militias supported by Iran deployed in Syria on Monday to back the government’s counteroffensive against a surprise advance by insurgents who seized the largest city of Aleppo, a militia official and a war monitor said. Insurgents led by jihadi group Hayat Tahrir al-Sham launched a two-pronged attack on Aleppo last week and the countryside around Idlib before moving toward neighboring Hama province. Government troops built a fortified defensive line in northern Hama in an attempt to stall the insurgents’ momentum while jets on Sunday pounded rebel-held lines. Iranian Foreign Minister Abbas Araghchi met with Syrian President Bashar Assad in Damascus Sunday and announced Tehran’s full support for his government. He later arrived for talks in Ankara, Turkey, one of the rebels' main backers. Iran has been of Assad’s principal political and military supporters and deployed military advisers and forces after 2011 protests against Assad’s rule turned into an all-out war. Tehran-backed Iraqi militias already in Syria mobilized and additional forces crossed the border to support them, said the Iraqi militia official, who spoke on condition of anonymity because he was not authorized to speak to the media. According to Britain-based opposition war monitor the Syrian Observatory for Human Rights, some 200 Iraqi militiamen on pickups crossed into Syria overnight through the strategic Bou Kamal. They were expected to deploy in Aleppo to support the Syrian army’s pushback against the insurgents, the monitor said. DUBAI, United Arab Emirates — U.S. Navy destroyers shot down seven missiles and drones fired by Yemen’s Houthi rebels at the warships and three American merchant vessels they were escorting through the Gulf of Aden. No damage or injuries were reported. U.S. Central Command said late Sunday that the destroyers USS Stockdale and USS O’Kane shot down and destroyed three anti-ship ballistic missiles, three drones and one anti-ship cruise missile. The merchant ships were not identified. The Houthis claimed responsibility for the attack in a statement and said they had targeted the U.S. destroyers and “three supply ships belonging to the American army in the Arabian Sea and the Gulf of Aden.” Houthi attacks for months have targeted shipping through a waterway where $1 trillion in goods pass annually over the Israel-Hamas war in Gaza and Israel’s ground offensive in Lebanon. A ceasefire was announced in Lebanon last week. The USS Stockdale was involved in a similar attack on Nov. 12 . Read more of the AP's coverage of the Middle East wars: https://apnews.com/hub/mideast-warsOn a day when the world woke up to a nightmare in progress, they were in the control roomIn a recent development that has sent shockwaves throughout the agricultural sector, former Minister of Agriculture and Rural Affairs, Tang Renjian, was arrested on charges of bribery. The long-standing figure in China's agricultural industry now finds himself embroiled in a corruption scandal that has tarnished his once-revered reputation.

The decision to enact visa restrictions on these particular individuals is a direct response to what Chinese officials have deemed as "bad behavior" on the part of some US politicians and officials who have openly supported the anti-government protests in Hong Kong and have interfered in China's internal affairs.

Overall, the roadshow events launched by Guangzhou are a testament to the city's commitment to supporting and promoting the growth of cross-border e-commerce independent brands. By providing a platform for businesses to showcase their creativity, innovation, and competitiveness, these events help cultivate a thriving ecosystem that drives entrepreneurship, collaboration, and success in the global marketplace. As the cross-border e-commerce industry continues to evolve and expand, initiatives like these roadshow events will be instrumental in shaping the future of the industry and empowering businesses to reach new heights of success.

Li Gangren, a versatile player known for his pace, technical skills, and goal-scoring abilities, has been a standout performer for PSG this season. His consistent displays have not only earned him a regular spot in the starting XI but also caught the attention of top clubs across Europe. With his market value now hitting the 30 million euro mark, Li Gangren has firmly established himself as one of the most sought-after young talents in world football.

According to AS's forecast, Real Madrid's lineup is expected to feature key players such as Thibaut Courtois in goal, Dani Carvajal, Eder Militao, Nacho Fernandez, and Ferland Mendy in defense, Casemiro, Luka Modric, and Federico Valverde in midfield, and Karim Benzema, Eden Hazard, and Kylian Mbappe in the attacking positions.In addition to improved AI and dialogue systems, developers have also paid attention to the behavior of NPC companions in combat situations. NPC companions are now more strategic, efficient, and adaptive fighters, making them valuable assets in battles. They no longer mindlessly charge into danger or get in the way of the player but instead actively contribute to combat scenarios, showcasing their newfound intelligence and combat prowess.

( MENAFN - Jordan Times) Jordan's burgeoning tech scene stands at a crossroads. With the potential to become a pillar of a developed economy. Hence, the nation should navigate a critical path - fostering innovation while safeguarding user trust. This journey doesn't lie in blindly following the breakneck pace of the US system or the cautious approach of the EU. Instead, Jordan needs a strategic hybrid, drawing upon the strengths of both. The allure of the US system, with its minimal government intervention, is undeniable. This environment has fuelled the explosive growth of Silicon Valley giants, and Jordanian startups could potentially benefit from similar freedom to experiment and adapt rapidly. However, unfettered innovation can come at a cost. Consumers may be left vulnerable to data breaches, privacy violations, and unfair competition. In a globalised digital landscape, trust is paramount for attracting users and investors. The EU, on the other hand, emphasises user well-being through stricter regulations focused on consumer protection and data privacy. This could build trust in Jordanian tech companies, making them globally attractive partners. Additionally, the EU's emphasis on R&D funding could be a crucial resource to fuel homegrown innovation. However, a rigid regulatory framework can stifle the rapid iteration vital for early-stage startups. Navigating complex regulations can be expensive, hindering the growth of young Jordanian companies. Encourage experimentation within a framework of clear data privacy and consumer protection laws. This fosters trust and creates a stable environment for long-term growth. Here, Jordan can learn from economies like Singapore, which have struck a balance between innovation and regulation. Singapore has attracted tech giants while nurturing a local startup ecosystem. They achieved this by fostering a culture of innovation within a framework of clear and consistent regulations. Focus resources on R&D in key areas relevant to the future of technology, giving Jordanian tech a competitive edge. Look towards South Korea, which has successfully leveraged government support to cultivate world-leading tech companies like Samsung and LG. By investing in areas like Artificial Intelligence (AI), cybersecurity and blockchain technology, Jordan can position its tech sector for the future. This support could come in the form of tax breaks, grants, or the creation of innovation hubs focused on specific technologies. Implement a regulatory structure that evolves alongside the sector, allowing flexibility for startups while ensuring responsible practices as the industry matures. India, a booming tech hub, exemplifies this approach. Its regulatory framework allows startups to flourish in the early stages, focusing on attracting talent and fostering innovation. As companies mature, stricter oversight is implemented to ensure consumer protection and responsible data practices. This allows Jordan to attract ambitious young companies without sacrificing user security down the line. A successful tech sector relies on a skilled workforce equipped to handle the ever-evolving demands of the digital age. This requires significant investment in science, technology, engineering, and mathematics (STEM) education at all levels. Jordan can learn from countries like India, which have focused on creating a talent pool through university collaborations, industry partnerships, and online learning platforms. Investing in STEM education will prepare young Jordanians for the jobs of tomorrow and ensure the long-term sustainability of the tech sector. Jordan's tech sector presents a golden opportunity for the nation's economic development. By adopting a strategic approach that fosters innovation while ensuring user trust, Jordan can establish itself as a regional tech leader. The journey will require collaboration between the government, the private sector, and educational institutions. By embracing a culture of innovation, investing in its workforce, and fostering international partnerships, Jordan can transform its tech scene into a powerful engine for a prosperous future. This future holds the potential to create high-paying jobs, attract foreign investment, and propel Jordan towards a developed economy. The time to act is now. Hamza Alakaleek is a corporate lawyer and tax attorney MENAFN02122024000028011005ID1108949043 Legal Disclaimer: MENAFN provides the information “as is” without warranty of any kind. We do not accept any responsibility or liability for the accuracy, content, images, videos, licenses, completeness, legality, or reliability of the information contained in this article. If you have any complaints or copyright issues related to this article, kindly contact the provider above.In conclusion, Gabia's determination to become the captain of AC Milan and his respect for the current captain exemplify the values of leadership and teamwork that are vital to success in football. While the Serie A standings may leave many unsatisfied, the passion and dedication of players like Gabia serve as a reminder of the excitement and competition that make Italian football so exhilarating. As the season unfolds, football fans can expect to see thrilling matches and fierce rivalries that will keep them hooked until the final matchday.

Expert: Financial and Monetary Policy Optimization Meets Market Expectations, Enhancing Unconventional Countercyclical Adjustment

Adani entities apply for settlement in response to Sebi show cause noticeThe arrest of President Yoon has also raised questions about the future of South Korea's democracy and the strength of its institutions. While the decision to arrest a sitting president demonstrates the country's commitment to upholding the rule of law and holding those in power accountable, it also highlights the deep-seated issues of corruption and impunity that continue to plague the country's political system.BOCA RATON, Fla. (AP) — Florida Atlantic is finalizing the hiring of Texas Tech offensive coordinator Zach Kittley as its new head coach, a person with knowledge of the decision said Monday. Kittley and the school were working through the remaining details Monday, said the person, who spoke to The Associated Press on condition of anonymity because the school has yet to announce that the hiring is complete. The Owls are replacing Tom Herman, who was fired two weeks ago with two games left in his second year at the school. Kittley had stints as offensive coordinator at Houston Baptist and Western Kentucky before returning to Texas Tech — his alma mater — in 2022 in the same role. The Red Raiders have averaged 435 yards per game over the last three seasons under Kittley, 22nd best among all FBS teams. This season saw the Red Raiders rank among the nation's best offenses: They were eighth in yards per play, eighth in points per game, 10th in yards per game and did all that at a pace nearly unmatched nationally. Texas Tech averaged 78.25 plays per game this season, just behind Syracuse's 78.33 for the national lead. As a student assistant, then graduate assistant and assistant quarterbacks coach at Texas Tech, Kittley helped coach Patrick Mahomes — the Kansas City Chiefs star, NFL MVP and Super Bowl champion — during his collegiate career. The Owls went 3-9 this season, their fourth consecutive losing record. Lane Kiffin went 27-13 with two bowl wins in his three seasons at FAU; the Owls are 22-35 in five seasons since Kiffin left for Ole Miss after the 2019 campaign. Get poll alerts and updates on the AP Top 25 throughout the season. Sign up here . AP college football: https://apnews.com/hub/ap-top-25-college-football-poll and https://apnews.com/hub/college-football

The robust performance of the manufacturing sector, a cornerstone of China's economy, contributed significantly to the overall improvement in the corporate credit index. With increased demand, enhanced efficiency, and strategic investments in technology and innovation, manufacturing companies have shown resilience and adaptability in a competitive and rapidly evolving market environment.NEW YORK — Technology stocks pulled Wall Street to another record amid a mixed trading session. The S&P 500 rose 0.2 percent Monday from its all-time high set on Friday to post a record for the 54th time this year. The Dow Jones Industrial Average fell 0.3 percent, while the Nasdaq composite gained 1 percent. Super Micro Computer, a stock that's been on an AI-driven roller coaster, soared 28.7 percent to lead the market. Following allegations of misconduct and the resignation of its public auditor, the maker of servers used in artificial-intelligence technology said an investigation found no evidence of misconduct by its management or by the company's board. It also said that it doesn't expect to restate its past financials and that it will strengthen its governance. Big Tech stocks also helped prop up the market. Gains of 1.8 percent for Microsoft and 3.2 percent for Meta Platforms were the two strongest forces pushing upward on the S&P 500. Retailers were mixed amid what was expected to be the best Cyber Monday on record and coming off Black Friday. NEW YORK — Intel CEO Pat Gelsinger has retired, the struggling chipmaker said Dec. 2 in a surprise announcement. Two company executives, David Zinsner and Michelle Johnston Holthaus, will serve as interim co-CEOs while the company searches for a replacement for Gelsinger, who also stepped down from the board. The departure of Gelsinger, whose career spanned more than 40 years, underscores the turmoil at Intel. The company was once a dominant force in the semiconductor industry but has been eclipsed by rival Nvidia, which has cornered the market for chips that run artificial intelligence systems. Gelsinger started at Intel in 1979 at Intel and was its first chief technology officer. He returned to Intel as chief executive in 2021. Gelsinger said his exit was "bittersweet as this company has been my life for the bulk of my working career," he said in a statement. "I can look back with pride at all that we have accomplished together. It has been a challenging year for all of us as we have made tough but necessary decisions to position Intel for the current market dynamics." Gelsinger's departure comes as Intel's financial woes have been piling up. The company posted a $16.6 billion loss in the most recent quarter and the company's shares have fallen by more than half since he took over as CEO. Gelsinger announced plans in August to slash 15 percent of its workforce — or about 15,000 jobs — as part of cost-cutting efforts to to save $10 billion in 2025. NEW YORK — Stellantis CEO Carlos Tavares is stepping down after nearly four years in the top spot of the automaker, which owns car brands like Jeep, Citroën and Ram, amid an ongoing struggle with slumping sales. The world's fourth-largest carmaker announced that its board accepted his resignation Dec. 1, effective immediately. Stellantis said the process of finding a new, permanent CEO is "well under way." In the meantime, the company says a new interim executive committee, led by chairman John Elkann, will be established. As head of PSA Peugeot, Tavares took control of the Netherlands-based company in January 2021 — when it merged with Fiat Chrysler Automobiles, creating an automotive giant that is the parent to several well-known brands today. Beyond Jeep, Citroën and Ram, the company portfolio includes Dodge, Chrysler, Fiat, Peugeot, Maserati and Opel. Stellantis' North American operations had been the company's main source of profits for some time, but struggles piled up this year, with the company citing rising competition and larger market changes. As a result of lofty sticker prices and fewer affordable options, many high-priced vehicles have been left unsold. NEW YORK — Travelers heading home after the Thanksgiving holiday are setting a record. T he Transportation Security Administration said it screened nearly 3.1 million travelers on Dec. 1, breaking the previous record by about 74,000. That mark was set on July 7, also a Sunday after a holiday, July Fourth. Hundreds of thousands of travelers were delayed or had their flights canceled. FlightAware says more 6,800 flights were delayed on Sunday, with the highest numbers at Hartsfield–Jackson Atlanta International and Chicago’s O’Hare Airport. WASHINGTON — A top Federal Reserve official said he is leaning toward supporting an interest rate cut but that evidence of persistent inflation before then could cause him to change that view. Speaking at George Washington University, Christopher Waller, a key member of the Fed’s board of governors, said he was confident that inflation is headed lower and that the central bank will likely keep reducing its key rate, which affects many consumer and business loans. But he noted that there’s a risk that inflation “may be getting stuck above” the 2 percent target, which would support an argument for keeping the rate unchanged when the Fed meets later this month. DETROIT — A Stellantis joint venture with Samsung SDI has won a commitment from the U.S. Energy Department for up to a $7.54 billion loan to help build two electric vehicle battery plants in Kokomo, Ind. The project being built by StarPlus Energy LLC is expected to create at least 2,800 jobs at the plants and hundreds more at parts suppliers. StarPlus has to meet technical, legal, environmental and financial conditions. It’s unclear whether the loan will be funded before President-elect Donald Trump takes office on Jan. 20. Trump has pledged to end funding for EV projects, which he called the “green new scam.” WASHINGTON — Antitrust enforcers with the Federal Trade Commission have opened a wide-ranging investigation into Microsoft’s business practices, starting off a big legal project that an incoming Trump administration must take up or abandon. The FTC is investigating Microsoft’s cloud computing business and related product lines such as artificial intelligence and cybersecurity, according to a person who was not authorized to publicly discuss details of the investigation and spoke to The Associated Press on condition of anonymity. It’s the latest action of more than three years of aggressive antitrust enforcement shepherded by FTC Chair Lina Chan, who was elevated to lead the agency by President Joe Biden after he came into office pledging tougher scrutiny of monopolistic behavior by Big Tech companies. FRANKFURT, Germany — Volkswagen workers launched rolling two-hour strikes Monday at nine plants across Germany to underscore their resistance to 10 percent pay cuts and factory closures the company says are necessary to cope with a slack European auto market. The work stoppages included the VWompany's base plant at Wolfsburg, where workers rallied against a cost-cutting drive by the automaker's management in which they face the threat of the company's first plant closures in its home country. VW has said it must lower costs in Germany to levels achieved by competitors and by its plants in eastern Europe and South America. Chief employee representative Daniela Cavallo has said employees should not shoulder the burden of management failures to develop attractive products and come up with a cheaper, entry-level electric vehicle. The so-called warning strikes, a common tactic in German wage negotiations, are taking place as part of talks for a new labor agreement after a mandatory peace period that bars strikes expired on Sunday. The IG Metall industrial union said any job actions beyond those occurring on Monday would be announced later. .