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DAISO NEW STORE OPENING IN VISTA, CALIFORNIAJERUSALEM — Israel’s defense minister has confirmed that Israel assassinated Hamas’ top leader last summer and is threatening to take similar action against the leadership of the Houthi rebel group in Yemen. The comments by Israel Katz appeared to mark the first time that Israel has acknowledged killing Ismail Haniyeh, who died in an explosion in Iran in July. Israel was widely believed to be behind the blast and leaders have previously hinted at its involvement. In a speech Monday, Katz said the Houthis would meet a similar fate as the other members of an Iranian-led alliance in the region, including Haniyeh. He also noted that Israel has killed other leaders of Hamas and Hezbollah, helped topple Syria’s Bashar Assad and destroyed Iran’s anti-aircraft systems. “We will strike (the Houthis’) strategic infrastructure and cut off the head of the leadership,” he said. “Just like we did to Haniyeh, Sinwar and Nasrallah in Tehran, Gaza and Lebanon, we will do in Hodeida and Sanaa,” he said, referring to Hamas and Hezbollah leaders killed in previous Israeli attacks. The Iranian-backed Houthis have launched scores of missiles and drones at Israel throughout the war, including a missile that landed in Tel Aviv on Saturday and wounded at least 16 people. Israel has carried out three sets of airstrikes in Yemen during the war and vowed to step up the pressure on the rebel group until the missile attacks stop. Here’s the latest: WASHINGTON — The Pentagon acknowledged Monday that there are more than 2,500 U.S. troops in Iraq, the total routinely touted publicly. It also said the number of forces in Syria has grown over the past “several years” due to increasing threats, but was not openly disclosed. Maj. Gen. Pat Ryder, Pentagon press secretary, said in a statement that there are “at least 2,500” U.S. military personnel in Iraq “plus some additional, temporary enablers” that are on rotational deployments. He said that due to diplomatic considerations, the department will not provide more specifics. The U.S. concluded sensitive negotiations with the government of Iraq in September that called for troops to begin leaving after the November election. The presence of U.S. troops there has long been a political liability for Iraqi leaders who are under increased pressure and influence from Iran. U.S. officials have not provided details about the withdrawal agreement, but it calls for the mission against the Islamic State group to end by September 2025, and that some U.S. troops will remain through 2026 to support the anti-IS mission in Syria. Some troops may stay in the Kurdistan region after that because the regional government would like them to stay. Ryder announced last week that there are about 2,000 U.S. troops in Syria – more than double the 900 that the U.S. had acknowledged publicly until now. On Monday he said the extra 1,100 deploy for shorter times to do force protection, transportation, maintenance and other missions. He said the number has fluctuated for the past several years and increased “over time.” JERUSALEM — Israel’s defense minister has confirmed that Israel assassinated Hamas’ top leader last summer and is threatening to take similar action against the leadership of the Houthi rebel group in Yemen. The comments by Israel Katz appeared to mark the first time that Israel has acknowledged killing Ismail Haniyeh, who died in an explosion in Iran in July. Israel was widely believed to be behind the blast and leaders have previously hinted at its involvement. In a speech Monday, Katz said the Houthis would meet a similar fate as the other members of an Iranian-led alliance in the region, including Haniyeh. He also noted that Israel has killed other leaders of Hamas and Hezbollah, helped topple Syria’s Bashar Assad and destroyed Iran’s anti-aircraft systems. BEIRUT — The United Nations peacekeeping mission in southern Lebanon on Monday said it has observed recent “concerning actions” by the Israeli army in southern Lebanon, including the destruction of residential areas and road blockages. A spokesperson for the peacekeeping mission, Kandice Ardiel, told The Associated Press that peacekeepers also observed on Monday an Israeli flag flying in Lebanese territory near Naqoura. The town hosts the headquarters of the peacekeeping mission, known as UNIFIL. Under the terms of the U.S.-brokered ceasefire agreement that ended the 14-month war between Israel and Hezbollah, the Israeli army is required to complete its withdrawal from Lebanon within 60 days of the agreement’s signing on Nov. 27. Since the ceasefire went into effect, the Israeli army has conducted near-daily military operations in southern villages, including firing gunshots, house demolitions, excavations, tank shelling and strikes. These actions have killed at least 27 people, wounded more than 30, destroyed residential buildings and, in one case, a mosque. “Peacekeepers continue to monitor the situation on the ground and report violations of Resolution 1701,” Ardiel said. “We reiterate our call for all actors to cease and refrain from violations of Resolution 1701 and any actions that may upset the current delicate balance.” On Monday, Lebanon’s caretaker Prime Minister Najib Mikati visited the site of an Israeli airstrike in the southern town of Khiam as part of a tour of front-line areas alongside army chief Joseph Aoun and UNIFIL Head of Mission Aroldo Lazaro. Mikati and Lazaro urged the withdrawal of Israeli troops from Lebanese territory to allow the army to fully assume its duties. JERUSALEM — The Israeli military says three soldiers were killed Monday in combat in northern Gaza. The military did not provide details of the circumstances. According to a statement released Sunday, the brigade in which the three were serving completed its operational activities in the northern town of Beit Lahiya on Sunday. It then began operating in the nearby town of Beit Hanoun following intelligence suggesting the presence of militants there. Since the start of the ground offensive in the Gaza Strip, 389 Israeli soldiers have been killed. JERUSALEM — Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu said Monday there is “some progress” in efforts to reach a hostage and ceasefire deal in Gaza, although he added he could not give a time frame for a possible agreement. Of the roughly 250 people who were taken hostage in the Hamas-led raid on Israel on Oct. 7, 2023 that sparked the war, around 100 are still inside the Gaza Strip, at least a third of whom are believed to be dead. Speaking in the Knesset, Netanyahu said “we are taking significant actions through all channels to return our loved ones. I would like to tell you cautiously that there is some progress.” Netanyahu said he could not reveal details of what was being done to secure the return of hostages. He said the main reasons for the progress were the death of Hamas leader Yahya Sinwar and Israel’s military actions against Iran-backed Hezbollah militants who had been firing rockets into Israel from neighboring Lebanon in support of Hamas. “Hamas hoped that Iran and Hezbollah would come to its aid but they are busy licking the wounds from the blows we inflicted on them,” he said, adding that Israel was also putting “relentless military pressure” on Hamas in Gaza. “There is progress. I don’t know how long it will take,” Netanyahu said. JERUSALEM — Israel's military said Monday it intercepted a drone launched from Yemen before it entered Israeli territory, days after a long-range rocket attack by Yemen's Houthi rebels hit Tel Aviv, injuring 16 people from shattered glass. The military said no air raid warning sirens were sounded Monday. Israel says the Iran-backed Houthis have fired more than 200 missiles and UAVs, or unmanned aerial vehicles, during the Israel-Hamas war in Gaza. The Houthis have also been attacking shipping in the Red Sea and Gulf of Aden — attacks they say won’t stop until there is a ceasefire in Gaza. The attacks on shipping and Israel are taking place despite U.S. and European warships patrolling the area. On Saturday night and early Sunday, the U.S. conducted airstrikes on Yemen. Last week, Israel launched its own airstrikes on Yemen, killing at least nine people, and a Houthi missile damaged a school in Israel. DAMASCUS, Syria — A Qatari delegation visited the Syrian capital on Monday for the first time in more than a decade and met with the country's top insurgent commander, who said strategic cooperation between Damascus and Doha will begin soon. Qatar, along with Turkey, has long backed the rebels who now control Damascus, and the two countries are looking to protect their interests in Syria now that former President Bashar Assad has been overthrown. The Qatari delegation was headed by the minister of state for foreign affairs, Mohammed al-Khulaifi, who met with Ahmad al-Sharaa, leader of Hayat Tahrir al-Sham, or HTS, the insurgent group that overthrew Assad on Dec. 8. Al-Sharaa was quoted as saying by Syrian media that they have invited the emir of Qatar to visit Damascus adding that relations will return to normal soon. Al-Sharaa said Qatar will back Syria during the transitional period and the two countries will soon start “wide strategic cooperation.” Al-Sharaa also met Monday with Jordan’s Foreign Minister Ayman Safadi as well as a Saudi official. Unlike Qatar, Saudi Arabia and Jordan had relations with Assad’s government until he was removed from power. JENIN, West Bank — The Palestinian Authority says a second member of its security forces has been killed in the West Bank town of Jenin during clashes with Palestinian militants . Brig. Gen. Anwar Rajab, the spokesman for PA security forces, said 1st Sgt. Mehran Qadoos was killed on Monday by “outlaws” in the volatile northern town, where the security forces launched a rare crackdown earlier this month. A member of security forces also was killed on Sunday. An Associated Press reporter in Jenin heard heavy gunfire and explosions, apparently from a battle between the security forces and Palestinian militants. There was no sign of Israeli forces in the area. Militant groups had earlier called for a general strike across the territory, accusing the security forces of trying to disarm them in support of Israel’s half-century occupation of the territory. The Western-backed Palestinian Authority is internationally recognized but deeply unpopular among Palestinians , in part because it cooperates with Israel on security matters. Israel accuses the authority of incitement and of failing to act against armed groups. The Palestinian Authority exercises limited authority in population centers in the West Bank. Israel captured the territory in the 1967 Mideast War, and the Palestinians want it to form the main part of their future state. Israel’s current government is opposed to Palestinian statehood and says it will maintain open-ended security control over the territory. Violence has soared in the West Bank following Hamas’ Oct. 7, 2023 attack out of Gaza, which ignited the war there. JENIN, West Bank — Palestinians in the volatile northern West Bank town of Jenin are observing a general strike called by militant groups to protest a rare crackdown by Palestinian security forces. An Associated Press reporter in Jenin heard gunfire and explosions, apparently from clashes between militants and Palestinian security forces. It was not immediately clear if anyone was killed or wounded. There was no sign of Israeli troops in the area. Shops were closed in the city on Monday, the day after militants killed a member of the Palestinian security forces and wounded two others. Militant groups called for a general strike across the territory, accusing the security forces of trying to disarm them in support of Israel’s half-century occupation of the territory. The Western-backed Palestinian Authority is internationally recognized but deeply unpopular among Palestinians , in part because it cooperates with Israel on security matters. Israel accuses the authority of incitement and of failing to act against armed groups. The Palestinian Authority blamed Sunday’s attack on “outlaws.” It says it is committed to maintaining law and order but will not police the occupation. The Palestinian Authority exercises limited authority in population centers in the West Bank. Israel captured the territory in the 1967 Mideast War, and the Palestinians want it to form the main part of their future state. Israel’s current government is opposed to Palestinian statehood and says it will maintain open-ended security control over the territory. Violence has soared in the West Bank following Hamas’ Oct. 7, 2023 attack out of Gaza, which ignited the war there. BEIRUT — Lebanon’s caretaker prime minister has begun a tour of military positions in the country’s south, almost a month after a ceasefire deal that ended the war between Israel and the Hezbollah group that battered the country. Najib Mikati on Monday was on his first visit to the southern frontlines, where Lebanese soldiers under the U.S.-brokered deal are expected to gradually deploy, with Hezbollah militants and Israeli troops both expected to withdraw by the end of next month. Mikati’s tour comes after the Lebanese government expressed its frustration over ongoing Israeli strikes and overflights in the country. “We have many tasks ahead of us, the most important being the enemy's (Israel's) withdrawal from all the lands it encroached on during its recent aggression,” he said after meeting with army chief Joseph Aoun in a Lebanese military barracks in the southeastern town of Marjayoun. “Then the army can carry out its tasks in full.” The Lebanese military for years has relied on financial aid to stay functional, primarily from the United States and other Western countries. Lebanon’s cash-strapped government is hoping that the war’s end and ceasefire deal will bring about more funding to increase the military’s capacity to deploy in the south, where Hezbollah’s armed units were notably present. Though they were not active combatants, the Lebanese military said that dozens of its soldiers were killed in Israeli strikes on their premises or patrolling convoys in the south. The Israeli army acknowledged some of these attacks.

It’s a common seasonal refrain: “Christmas just isn’t like it used to be.” This is not a new complaint. History shows that Christmas traditions are just as subject to change as any other aspect of human societies, and when customs change, there are always some who wish they could turn back the clock. In the 1830s, the English solicitor William Sandys compiled a host of examples of Britons bemoaning the transformation of Christmas customs from earlier eras. Sandys himself was especially concerned about the decline of public caroling, noting the practice appeared “to get more neglected every year.” He worried that this “neglect” was indicative of a wider British tendency to observe Christmas with less “hospitality and innocent revelry” in the 19th century than in the past. Yet the 19th century also produced new holiday customs. In fact, many of the new Christmas practices in Sandy’s time went on to become established traditions themselves – and are now the subject of nostalgia and fretted over by those who fear their decline. Take, for example, the humble Christmas card. My research shows that these printed seasonal greetings borrowed from the customs of the past to move Christmas into a new age. A British tradition Annual sales and circulation of Christmas cards have been in decline since the 1990s. Laments over the potential “death” of the Christmas card have been especially vocal in the United Kingdom, where the mailing of Christmas greetings to family and friends via printed cards was long considered to be an essential element of a “British Christmas.” Indeed, historians Martin Johnes and Mark Connelly both argue that throughout the 20th century the Christmas card was viewed as just as essential a part of Britain’s distinctive blend of holiday traditions as children hanging stockings at the end of their beds, Christmas pantomimes, and the eating of turkey and Brussels sprouts. Yet, as these same historians are quick to note, at one time Britons did none of these things at Christmas. Each of these traditions became an element of the customary British Christmas only during the second half of the 19th century and the early decades of the 20th. This makes them all relatively new additions to the country’s holiday customs, especially when viewed in light of Christmas’ more than 2,000-year history. Industrial revolution and Christmas cards The custom of mailing printed Christmas cards began in the middle decades of the 19th century and was a product of the industrial revolution. It was made affordable by new innovations in printing and papermaking and more efficient modes of transportation such as the railway. The development of this new tradition was also facilitated by Parliament’s introduction of the Penny Post in 1840, which allowed Britons to mail letters to any address in the United Kingdom for the small price of a penny stamp. Most historians date the Christmas card’s arrival to 1843, the same year in which Charles Dickens published “A Christmas Carol.” In that year, the inventor and civil servant Henry Cole commissioned the artist John Callcott Horsley to design a card to help Cole handle his Christmas correspondence more efficiently. Printed versions of Cole’s card were also made available for sale, but the high price of one shilling apiece left them outside the bounds of affordability for most of the Victorian population. Cole’s experiment, however, inspired other printers to produce similar but more affordable Christmas cards. The use of these cheaper cards began to spread in the 1850s and had established itself as a holiday tradition by the final decades of the century. A Victorian invention? While the Christmas card may have seemed like an entirely new invention to Victorian senders and receivers, the first Christmas card’s design was actually influenced by other, older British holiday traditions. As historians Timothy Larsen and the late Neil Armstrong have demonstrated, Christmas’ status as an established holiday meant that new Christmas customs developed during the 19th century needed to connect with, supplement or replace already existing traditions. The Christmas card was no exception to this recorded pattern. In 1843, many Britons bemoaned the disappearance of a variety of “Old English” Christmas customs. Foremost among these were traditions of Christmas “hospitality,” including Christmas and New Year’s visiting, when family, friends and neighbors went to each other’s homes to drink toasts and offer best wishes for the holiday and the coming year. Scholars argue popular belief in these traditions depended on a mixture of recalled reality and constructed fictions. Foremost among the latter were the popular stories depicting “old English hospitality” at Christmas by the American writer Washington Irving, published in the 1820s. In fact, Britons regularly invoked Irving’s accounts of Christmas at the fictional country house, Bracebridge Hall, when debating the changing character of their nation’s Christmas observances. Regardless of these “old” customs’ historical reality, they nevertheless came to feature prominently in discussions regarding the supposed disappearance of a range of community level Christmas observances, including feasting, caroling and public acts of charity. All of these, it was believed, were endangered in an increasingly urban Britain characterized by class tensions, heightened population mobility and mass anonymity. A union of the old and the new While it is unclear whether these ongoing debates inspired Cole’s decision to commission his 1843 Christmas card, the illustration Horsley designed for him alluded to them directly. The card features a family framed by trestles adorned with holly and mistletoe, accompanied on either side by charitable scenes involving the feeding and clothing of the poor. The center of the card – and the symbolic center of Horsley’s Christmas vision – however, is the family of three clearly defined generations enjoying a collective feast, including the classic English Christmas pudding. They face the viewer, their glasses raised in a toast, directly above a banner wishing them a “A Merry Christmas and a Happy New Year.” The central visual imagery of the card – as a “paper visitor” to the home of the recipient – replicates the social act of toasting associated with the older custom of holiday visits. In fact, Horsley’s design invoked many of the same elements featured in Irving’s stories. This is not surprising, given that in later life Horsley recalled the impact of reading Irving’s depictions of the “Christmas at Bracebridge Hall” as a boy, and how he and his sister Fanny had been “determined to do our best to keep Christmas in such a notable fashion.” Refashioning ‘old English hospitality’ Early Christmas cards favored similar imagery associated with the “Old English” Christmas of carolers, acts of charity, the playing of country sports, games such as blindman’s bluff, copious greenery, feasting and the toasting of Christmas and the New Year. These Christmas cards were thus novel, industrial products adorned with the imagery of British Christmases past. The development, and ultimate triumph, of the Christmas card in Victorian Britain demonstrates how nostalgia was channeled into invention. The Christmas card did not revitalize the traditions of Christmas and New Year’s visiting; it offered a paper replacement for them. Industrial production and transportation transformed the physical visitor into a paper proxy, allowing more people to visit many more of the homes of others during the holiday season than they ever would have been able to in person. The desire to hold on to one element of an older, supposedly declining Christmas tradition thus proved instrumental in helping to create a new holiday tradition in the midst of unprecedented changes in the character of communications and social relations. Today, a similar context of social and technological changes has caused some to predict the “death” of the Christmas card. The history of the 19th century suggests, however, that should the tradition die, whatever replaces it will thrive by drawing selectively on the Christmas customs of the past. Christopher Ferguson is Associate Professor of History, Auburn University. The Conversation is an independent and nonprofit source of news, analysis and commentary from academic experts. The Conversation is wholly responsible for the content.

Neel Kamal writes about sustainable agriculture, environment, climate change for The Times of India. His incisive and comprehensive reporting about over a year-long farmers' struggle against farm laws at the borders of the national capital won laurels. He is an alumunus of Chandigarh College of Engineering and Technology. Read More ​How to make Masala Chicken Curry at home​ 10 beautiful animals that are pink in colour 10 easy-to-care-for beautiful freshwater fish for home aquariums 9 vegetarian dishes shine in the ‘100 Best Dishes in the World’ list ​10 rare animals found only in Asia​ In pics: Sai Pallavi's vacation to Australia 8 books that will help develop discipline and good habits in 2025 Sanskrit names for baby boy that sound modern 18 stews and soups shine among the '100 Best Dishes in the World' 9 foods that provide over 30 grams of protein when cookedA retired police officer in the nation’s capital was convicted Monday of lying to authorities about leaking confidential information to the leader of the Proud Boys extremist group. US District Judge Amy Berman Jackson convicted former Metropolitan Police Department Lt. Shane Lamond of obstructing justice and making false statements after a trial without a jury. Sentencing was scheduled for April 3 after Lamond’s conviction on all four counts. Lamond was charged with leaking information to then-Proud Boys national chairman Enrique Tarrio , who was under investigation in the burning of a Black Lives Matter banner . Lamond testified at his bench trial that he never provided Tarrio with sensitive police information. Tarrio, who testified as a witness for Lamond’s defense, said he did not confess to Lamond about burning the banner and did not receive any confidential information from him. But the judge did not find either man’s testimony to be credible. Jackson said the evidence indicated that Lamond was not using Tarrio as a source after the banner burning. “It was the other way around,” she said. The judge said the string of messages that Lamond and Tarrio exchanged over the course of months showed a pattern: “Lamond and Tarrio talk, and Tarrio immediately disseminates what he learns,” she added. The judge described Tarrio as an “awful witness” who was “flippant, grandiose and obnoxious” on the stand. “He was one of the worst I’ve had the opportunity to sit next to during my tenure on the bench,” Jackson said. After the verdict, defense attorney Mark Schamel said it was premature to say if there will be an appeal. “It’s unbelievably disappointing to see every single thing that Lt. Lamond did viewed through a lens to make it appear to be something other than it was,” Schamel said outside the courtroom. “There is nothing disloyal about him at all, and it’s a sad day for him.” Tarrio eventually pleaded guilty to burning the banner stolen from a historic Black church in downtown Washington in December 2020. He was later sentenced to 22 years in prison for his role in the January 6, 2021, riot at the US Capitol, part of what prosecutors called a plot to use force to keep Donald Trump in the White House after the 2020 election. Lamond, who met Tarrio in 2019, had supervised the intelligence branch of the police department’s Homeland Security Bureau. He was responsible for monitoring groups like the Proud Boys when they came to Washington. Tarrio was arrested in Washington two days before the January 6 siege. The Miami resident wasn’t at the Capitol when a mob of Trump supporters stormed the building and interrupted the congressional certification of President Joe Biden’s 2020 electoral victory. Prosecutors said the trial evidence proved Lamond tipped off Tarrio that a warrant for his arrest had been signed. “Similarly, the defendant affirmatively advised Mr. Tarrio in a written message that he was being asked to identify him for a warrant, a warning obviously in contemplation of the subsequent prosecution and with obvious ramifications for it,” prosecutors wrote . Lamond’s indictment says he and Tarrio exchanged messages about the January 6 riot and discussed whether Proud Boys members were in danger of being charged in the attack. “Of course I can’t say it officially, but personally I support you all and don’t want to see your group’s name and reputation dragged through the mud,” Lamond wrote. Lamond said he was upset that a prosecutor labeled him as a Proud Boys “sympathizer” who acted as a “double agent” for the group after Tarrio burned a stolen Black Lives Matter banner in December 2020. “I don’t support the Proud Boys, and I’m not a Proud Boys sympathizer,” Lamond testified. Lamond said he considered Tarrio to be a source, not a friend. But he said he tried to build a friendly rapport with the group leader to gain his trust. Justice Department prosecutor Joshua Rothstein pointed to messages that suggest Lamond provided Tarrio with “real-time updates” on the police investigation of the December 12, 2020, banner burning. Lamond, 48, of Colonial Beach, Virginia, was charged with one count of obstruction of justice and three counts of making false statements. He retired in May 2023 after 23 years of service to the police department.A flop of a season finale. The All Blacks farewelled respected centurion Sam Cane and veteran halfback TJ Perenara – as they finish their test careers and depart to Japan – with victory in their final outing of the year but the collective performance fell decidedly flat. This was a hemisphere away from the definitive lasting impression Scott Robertson sought to deliver after selecting his strongest available side for an opponent ranked No 10 in the world. The All Blacks saved one of their worst performances of the year – rivalled only by the loss to the Pumas in Wellington – for the last. After struggling to match the Italian physicality and cope with their defensive pressure the All Blacks reverted to their dominant scrum and maul to squeeze out an underwhelming win that improved Robertson’s maiden season at the helm to 10-4 (71% win ratio). Emerging from a deflating defeat against France in Paris last week, the All Blacks bookended their gruelling five-match northern tour by evoking more questions than answers. With the end in sight maybe the All Blacks hit the wall. Maybe they should have introduced more fresh legs and fringe players. On the basis of this performance, though, the All Blacks need serious improvements – none more so than with protecting their ruck ball. Leading 17-6 after a sloppy first half the All Blacks largely fumbled and bumbled their way to the finish. Mark Tele’a’s 70th-minute try marked the first points of the second spell and while Beauden Barrett’s late strike blew out the margin, the All Blacks’ inability to assert their authority is the overarching theme of this contest. That the All Blacks had to survive two yellow cards – one to Scott Barrett for a first-half croc roll cleanout and Anton Lienert-Brown copping the second following repeat team infringements while defending their line – reflects the intense pressure they endured. Mark Tele’a dots down to score the All Blacks' third try of the match. Photo / Photosport The All Blacks’ skill execution, discipline, lineout, carry and clean in the collisions were all well short of standards. Wallace Sititi, Will Jordan and Cam Roigard impressed at times and Asafo Aumua added notable impact from the bench. Otherwise, though, there were few positives for the All Blacks. It’s difficult to gauge Gonzalo Quesada’s Italian team. After a memorable Six Nations that included wins over Scotland and Wales a draw with France, Italy were humbled 50-18 by the Pumas before battling to a 20-17 win against Georgia this month. On this occasion, though, as they welcomed the All Blacks to the home of the Juventus football club for their debut in Turin, Italy fronted with passionate intent throughout. For all their fight and heart Italy fully deserved Tommaso Menoncello’s late try that temporarily offered hope. Italy succeeded by dragging the All Blacks into a dogfight. Their physicality, defensive line speed and breakdown pressure caused the All Blacks major frustrations to turn the contest into a slow, scrappy spectacle that suited Italy’s objectives to stay in the fight. Plagued by poor ruck presentation and cleanouts that have haunted them in recent weeks, the All Blacks struggled to develop phase play continuity and build consistent pressure. While Ethan de Groot’s return led an utterly dominant scrum platform, frustrations built elsewhere with the All Blacks lineout misfiring badly on their ball to lose three throws. All Blacks captain Barrett’s yellow card for a croc roll cleanout – deemed to have threatened his opponent’s knees/lower limbs by shifting excess weight on this area – pushed his side further on the back foot. Barrett’s exit did not, however, cost the All Blacks any points. Roigard, despite dealing with bobbling ball at the base and Italian defenders manhandling him, eventually provided the brief spark with a trademark snipe to claim the opening try. Sam Cane salutes the crowd after playing his final game for New Zealand. Photo / Photosport Even then, though, the All Blacks lacked patience and variety on attack. Before Jordan finally released the shackles late in the half with the second strike the All Blacks were guilty of forcing passes and failing to finish rare line breaks. The introduction of the All Blacks bench injected much-needed impact but it wasn’t enough to deliver a definitive statement. When the time comes to reflect the All Blacks will note they were one point short of an unbeaten northern tour. Such a haul would have projected a narrative of progress and positivity. In the end, though, Robertson’s first season will be difficult to assess. Their 14th and final performance of the year leaves the lasting impression of uncertainty about where they stand. All Blacks: Cam Roigard, Will Jordan, Mark Tele’a, Beauden Barrett tries, Beauden Barrett pen, con 3 Italy: Tommaso Menoncello try, Paolo Garbisi pen 2 HT: 6-17 Liam Napier has been a sports journalist since 2010 , and his work has taken him to World Cups in rugby, netball and cricket, boxing world title fights and Commonwealth Games.The finale of Shrinking Season 2 is just around the corner. The finale episode will begin streaming on Wednesday, December 25, 2024, exclusively on Apple TV+. ET Year-end Special Reads Gold outshines D-St with 20% returns, but 2025 may be different The year of the pause: How RBI maneuvered its policy in 2024 2024, the year India defeated China's salami-slicing strategy While fans are excited for the conclusion of the comedy-drama’s extended second season, the holiday release timing has sparked mixed reactions. For viewers juggling Christmas festivities, the release schedule offers some flexibility. Apple TV+ drops episodes at 12 a.m. ET, which translates to 11 p.m. CT on Tuesday, December 24, or 9 p.m. PT for those on the West Coast, as mentioned in a report by Showsnob. This means some fans might sneak in an early watch on Christmas Eve, avoiding the busier Christmas Day schedules. Marketing Digital Marketing Masterclass by Pam Moore By - Pam Moore, Digital Transformation and Social Media Expert View Program Web Development Java 21 Essentials for Beginners: Build Strong Programming Foundations By - Metla Sudha Sekhar, IT Specialist and Developer View Program Finance Tally Prime & GST Accounting: Complete Guide By - CA Raj K Agrawal, Chartered Accountant View Program Office Productivity Zero to Hero in Microsoft Excel: Complete Excel guide 2024 By - Metla Sudha Sekhar, IT Specialist and Developer View Program Marketing Performance Marketing for eCommerce Brands By - Zafer Mukeri, Founder- Inara Marketers View Program Office Productivity Excel Essentials to Expert: Your Complete Guide By - Study At Home, Quality Education Anytime, Anywhere View Program Office Productivity Mastering Google Sheets: Unleash the Power of Excel and Advance Analysis By - Metla Sudha Sekhar, IT Specialist and Developer View Program Finance Financial Literacy for Non-Finance Executives By - CA Raja, Chartered Accountant | Financial Management Educator | Former AVP - Credit, SBI View Program Marketing Digital Marketing Masterclass by Neil Patel By - Neil Patel, Co-Founder and Author at Neil Patel Digital Digital Marketing Guru View Program Artificial Intelligence(AI) Collaborative AI Foundations: Working Smarter with Machines By - Prince Patni, Software Developer (BI, Data Science) View Program Marketing Digital marketing - Wordpress Website Development By - Shraddha Somani, Digital Marketing Trainer, Consultant, Strategiest and Subject Matter expert View Program Finance Crypto & NFT Mastery: From Basics to Advanced By - CA Raj K Agrawal, Chartered Accountant View Program Legal Complete Guide to AI Governance and Compliance By - Prince Patni, Software Developer (BI, Data Science) View Program Web Development 12-Factor App Methodology: Principles and Guidelines By - Prince Patni, Software Developer (BI, Data Science) View Program Web Development C++ Fundamentals for Absolute Beginners By - Metla Sudha Sekhar, IT Specialist and Developer View Program Entrepreneurship Marketing & Sales Strategies for Startups: From Concept to Conversion By - Dr. Anu Khanchandani, Startup Coach with more than 25 years of experience View Program Artificial Intelligence(AI) AI and Analytics based Business Strategy By - Tanusree De, Managing Director- Accenture Technology Lead, Trustworthy AI Center of Excellence: ATCI View Program Data Science SQL for Data Science along with Data Analytics and Data Visualization By - Metla Sudha Sekhar, IT Specialist and Developer View Program Artificial Intelligence(AI) AI for Everyone: Understanding and Applying the Basics on Artificial Intelligence By - Ritesh Vajariya, Generative AI Expert View Program Web Development Maximizing Developer Productivity: The Pomodoro Technique in Practice By - Prince Patni, Software Developer (BI, Data Science) View Program Entrepreneurship Crafting a Powerful Startup Value Proposition By - Dr. Anu Khanchandani, Startup Coach with more than 25 years of experience View Program Strategy ESG and Business Sustainability Strategy By - Vipul Arora, Partner, ESG & Climate Solutions at Sattva Consulting Author I Speaker I Thought Leader View Program What to Expect in the Finale As Season 2 approaches its conclusion, several unresolved storylines promise an emotional and dramatic finale. Jimmy continues to struggle with his emotional turmoil, facing a strained relationship with his daughter Alice, who remains close to Louis, as per a report by Showsnob. Meanwhile, Gaby finds herself at odds with Derek2 following a significant fight, compounded by her mother's insistence on moving in with her. Other key characters are also grappling with pivotal changes. Sean is ready to move out and find his own place, while Brian and Charlie are preparing for the arrival of their baby. Fans are also deeply concerned about Paul’s declining health, which has been a major emotional arc this season. Given the complexity of these storylines, viewers can expect a mix of heartfelt moments and drama, capped off by a likely cliffhanger. Fortunately, fans can take solace in knowing that Shrinking has already been renewed for a third season, promising a continuation of the beloved characters’ journeys. A Supersized Second Season Unlike its debut season, which featured 10 episodes, Shrinking Season 2 expanded to 12 episodes. The additional episodes have allowed the series to dive deeper into its characters and their relationships, exploring a broader range of emotional and comedic arcs, as mentioned in a report by Showsnob. The show’s mix of humor and heartfelt storytelling has been widely praised, with Season 2 delving into themes of personal growth, grief, and family dynamics. The extended runtime has proven beneficial in building on the foundations laid in Season 1, giving fans a richer narrative experience. Looking Ahead to Season 3 While the finale will likely leave fans with a cliffhanger, there’s plenty to look forward to in Shrinking Season 3. The renewal ensures that the show’s intricate character arcs and unresolved conflicts will continue to unfold. FAQs Is Shrinking Season 2 over? The Season 2 finale of Shrinking is set to premiere on Wednesday, December 25, 2024, exclusively on Apple TV+. Is there a season 3 of Shrinking? The return of Shrinking for Season 3 is no longer in doubt—it’s simply a matter of when. The series was officially renewed for a third season, with the announcement made public just one day after the premiere of Season 2 (as reported by Deadline ). ET Year-end Special Reads An Indian's guide to moving abroad as the world looks for 'better' immigrants The year of the HNIs: How India's rich splurged in 2024 (You can now subscribe to our Economic Times WhatsApp channel )

AFC standouts meet when Herbert, Chargers host Jackson's Ravens on Monday nightMeet man who failed in NEET, JEE, studied in govt school, moved to Pune, went to MIT, he is now...

HONOLULU (AP) — Michael Rataj had 16 points in Oregon State's 74-65 win over Charleston at the Diamond Head Classic on Sunday. Rataj also had 12 rebounds for the Beavers (9-2). Damarco Minor also scored 16 points, going 5 of 11 from the floor, including 2 for 5 from 3-point range, and 4 for 4 from the line. Parsa Fallah shot 6 of 7 from the field and 2 for 3 from the line to finish with 14 points. The Cougars (8-3) were led by Lazar Djokovic, who recorded 13 points, eight rebounds and two steals. Derrin Boyd added 13 points for Charleston. Deywilk Tavarez also had 10 points. Oregon State took the lead with 15:29 to go in the first half and never looked back. The score was 35-26 at halftime, with Fallah racking up 13 points. Oregon State closed out the victory in the final half, while Minor led the way with a team-high 14 second-half points. The Associated Press created this story using technology provided by Data Skrive and data from Sportradar .

Pandas An An and Ke Ke celebrate their 1st Christmas in Hong Kong HONG KONG (AP) — A pair of five-year-old pandas, named An An and Ke Ke, celebrated their first Christmas early in a Hong Kong park, munching on special treats and looking cute for the cameras. An An, the male panda, was presented with an ice slab that had “Merry Christmas” written on it with sweet potato and carrots while Ke Ke, his female companion, got a snowman garnished with slices of carrot and apple in a special press event Monday before visitors streamed to the park. China sent the pair to Hong Kong in late September in a bid to boost tourism in the city. Mickey, Minnie, Goofy and Wemby: Spurs-Knicks Christmas game is also an animated one at Disney World NEW YORK (AP) — There’s a Christmas Day basketball game at Walt Disney World, featuring Mickey, Minnie, Goofy and Wemby. While Victor Wembanyama and the San Antonio Spurs are facing the New York Knicks at Madison Square Garden, an alternate animated telecast will have the teams playing in the Magic Kingdom, with some Disney characters participating. The special alt-cast, the first animated presentation of an NBA game, will be shown on ESPN2 and also stream on Disney+ and ESPN+. 'Squid Game' returns looking for win with season 2 The first season of “Squid Game” was Netflix's most-watched series and went on to win a variety of accolades including the Emmy Award for lead actor in a drama series for Lee Jung-jae and a directing award for Hwang Dong-hyuk. The show returns for its second season on Dec. 26 and is already nominated for a Golden Globe for best drama. It's rare for TV shows made in Korea to have more than one season but Lee describes Hwang as “a genius.” A third and final season has already filmed. Netflix is also invested in expanding its “Squid Game” universe with a reality competition series and an English-language version in development. In the ruins of a bombed-out church in Lebanon, there's now a tiny Christmas tree DARDGHAYA, Lebanon (AP) — A Christmas tree stands among the fallen stones in the ruins of a Catholic church in southern Lebanon that was hit by an Israeli airstrike during the war with Hezbollah. It's a small and modest tree. There are no lights because the war destroyed power lines. The ground is too uneven to set up the Nativity scene. The priest says his blood pressure went up and he lost his balance when he saw the church's destruction. Now he leads Mass in an underground room that serves as a temporary worship space. He tells the community it “is more like the cave where Jesus was born.” Burt, the huge Australian crocodile who had a cameo in ‘Crocodile Dundee,’ dies at 90 The Crocosaurus Cove reptile aquarium in Darwin, Australia, says the huge crocodile that rose to fame with a cameo in the movie “Crocodile Dundee” has died. The aquarium says Burt died over the weekend and was at least 90 years old. A saltwater crocodile, Burt was estimated to be more than 5 meters long. The 1986 movie stars Paul Hogan as the rugged crocodile hunter Mick Dundee. In the movie, American Sue Charlton, played by actress Linda Kozlowski, goes to fill her canteen in a watering hole when she is attacked by a crocodile, before being saved by Dundee. Elaborate holiday light displays are making spirits bright in a big way CONCORD, N.H. (AP) — Tiny tots with their eyes all aglow might be enough to brighten some homes this holiday season. But others are adorned with thousands of blinking lights synched to blasting music. In Mesa, Arizona, 14 homeowners have been going all-out on holiday lights for 30 years, and those buying homes in the neighborhood often find the attics full of décor left behind by previous owners. In Santa Clarita, California, residents began coordinating their holiday lights to bring some joy to their community after an earthquake. And in Edmond, Oklahoma, those looking to the western sky will easily spot the Miranda family’s elaborate display featuring images and music from the movie “Wicked.” Santa braves the sticky heat of the Amazon jungle to bring gifts to children in Brazilian village CATALAO, Brazil (AP) — Santa Claus has braved the sticky heat of the Amazon rainforest this weekend, taking two boats to bring gifts to the children of a small village near the Brazilian city of Manaus. The visit was arranged by Amigos do Papai Noel, a Brazilian charity that has been taking gifts to children in the Amazon rainforest for the past 26 years. More than 600 children from different villages gathered in Catalao to receive presents from Santa, who dressed in his traditional nightcap, white gloves and red suit, while enduring the stifling jungle heat. NASA's Parker Solar Probe aims to fly closer to the sun like never before NEW YORK (AP) — A NASA spacecraft is about to make the closest approach to the sun. The Parker Solar Probe was launched in 2018 to get a close-up look at the sun. On Tuesday, Parker will pass within a record-breaking 3.8 million miles of the sun’s surface. That's nearly seven times closer to the sun than previous spacecraft. Scientists won’t hear from Parker until a few days after the flyby. It’ll continue circling the sun at this distance until at least September. Scientists hope to better understand what drives the solar wind and why the corona is so much hotter than the sun's surface. 174 Colorado skiers and snowboarders rescued after a lift cracks WINTER PARK, Colo. (AP) — Officials are investigating what caused a crack in a Colorado ski lift that forced the evacuation of over 170 stranded skiers and snowboarders. The evacuation happened Saturday on a gondola lift at Winter Park Resort. A spokesperson says the lift stopped automatically when a crack was detected in a structural piece of the lift. Passengers were lowered down by ropes over the course of about five hours. No injuries were reported during the rescues, which came at the start of the busy holiday season. 'Sonic 3' bests 'Mufasa: The Lion King' at the box office NEW YORK (AP) — In the holiday season battle of big-budget family movies, Paramount Pictures’ “Sonic the Hedgehog 3” sped past the Walt Disney Co.’s “Mufasa: The Lion King” to take the top spot at the box office. The results came just ahead of the lucrative Christmas corridor in theaters. According to studio estimates, “Sonic the Hedgehog 3” debuted with $62 million in ticket sales over the weekend. “Mufasa,” however, was humbled in its opening weekend, coming in notably shy of expectations. It returned just $35 million in domestic ticket sales.Pandas An An and Ke Ke celebrate their 1st Christmas in Hong Kong HONG KONG (AP) — A pair of five-year-old pandas, named An An and Ke Ke, celebrated their first Christmas early in a Hong Kong park, munching on special treats and looking cute for the cameras. An An, the male panda, was presented with an ice slab that had “Merry Christmas” written on it with sweet potato and carrots while Ke Ke, his female companion, got a snowman garnished with slices of carrot and apple in a special press event Monday before visitors streamed to the park. China sent the pair to Hong Kong in late September in a bid to boost tourism in the city. Mickey, Minnie, Goofy and Wemby: Spurs-Knicks Christmas game is also an animated one at Disney World NEW YORK (AP) — There’s a Christmas Day basketball game at Walt Disney World, featuring Mickey, Minnie, Goofy and Wemby. While Victor Wembanyama and the San Antonio Spurs are facing the New York Knicks at Madison Square Garden, an alternate animated telecast will have the teams playing in the Magic Kingdom, with some Disney characters participating. The special alt-cast, the first animated presentation of an NBA game, will be shown on ESPN2 and also stream on Disney+ and ESPN+. 'Squid Game' returns looking for win with season 2 The first season of “Squid Game” was Netflix's most-watched series and went on to win a variety of accolades including the Emmy Award for lead actor in a drama series for Lee Jung-jae and a directing award for Hwang Dong-hyuk. The show returns for its second season on Dec. 26 and is already nominated for a Golden Globe for best drama. It's rare for TV shows made in Korea to have more than one season but Lee describes Hwang as “a genius.” A third and final season has already filmed. Netflix is also invested in expanding its “Squid Game” universe with a reality competition series and an English-language version in development. In the ruins of a bombed-out church in Lebanon, there's now a tiny Christmas tree DARDGHAYA, Lebanon (AP) — A Christmas tree stands among the fallen stones in the ruins of a Catholic church in southern Lebanon that was hit by an Israeli airstrike during the war with Hezbollah. It's a small and modest tree. There are no lights because the war destroyed power lines. The ground is too uneven to set up the Nativity scene. The priest says his blood pressure went up and he lost his balance when he saw the church's destruction. Now he leads Mass in an underground room that serves as a temporary worship space. He tells the community it “is more like the cave where Jesus was born.” Burt, the huge Australian crocodile who had a cameo in ‘Crocodile Dundee,’ dies at 90 The Crocosaurus Cove reptile aquarium in Darwin, Australia, says the huge crocodile that rose to fame with a cameo in the movie “Crocodile Dundee” has died. The aquarium says Burt died over the weekend and was at least 90 years old. A saltwater crocodile, Burt was estimated to be more than 5 meters long. The 1986 movie stars Paul Hogan as the rugged crocodile hunter Mick Dundee. In the movie, American Sue Charlton, played by actress Linda Kozlowski, goes to fill her canteen in a watering hole when she is attacked by a crocodile, before being saved by Dundee. Elaborate holiday light displays are making spirits bright in a big way CONCORD, N.H. (AP) — Tiny tots with their eyes all aglow might be enough to brighten some homes this holiday season. But others are adorned with thousands of blinking lights synched to blasting music. In Mesa, Arizona, 14 homeowners have been going all-out on holiday lights for 30 years, and those buying homes in the neighborhood often find the attics full of décor left behind by previous owners. In Santa Clarita, California, residents began coordinating their holiday lights to bring some joy to their community after an earthquake. And in Edmond, Oklahoma, those looking to the western sky will easily spot the Miranda family’s elaborate display featuring images and music from the movie “Wicked.” Santa braves the sticky heat of the Amazon jungle to bring gifts to children in Brazilian village CATALAO, Brazil (AP) — Santa Claus has braved the sticky heat of the Amazon rainforest this weekend, taking two boats to bring gifts to the children of a small village near the Brazilian city of Manaus. The visit was arranged by Amigos do Papai Noel, a Brazilian charity that has been taking gifts to children in the Amazon rainforest for the past 26 years. More than 600 children from different villages gathered in Catalao to receive presents from Santa, who dressed in his traditional nightcap, white gloves and red suit, while enduring the stifling jungle heat. NASA's Parker Solar Probe aims to fly closer to the sun like never before NEW YORK (AP) — A NASA spacecraft is about to make the closest approach to the sun. The Parker Solar Probe was launched in 2018 to get a close-up look at the sun. On Tuesday, Parker will pass within a record-breaking 3.8 million miles of the sun’s surface. That's nearly seven times closer to the sun than previous spacecraft. Scientists won’t hear from Parker until a few days after the flyby. It’ll continue circling the sun at this distance until at least September. Scientists hope to better understand what drives the solar wind and why the corona is so much hotter than the sun's surface. 174 Colorado skiers and snowboarders rescued after a lift cracks WINTER PARK, Colo. (AP) — Officials are investigating what caused a crack in a Colorado ski lift that forced the evacuation of over 170 stranded skiers and snowboarders. The evacuation happened Saturday on a gondola lift at Winter Park Resort. A spokesperson says the lift stopped automatically when a crack was detected in a structural piece of the lift. Passengers were lowered down by ropes over the course of about five hours. No injuries were reported during the rescues, which came at the start of the busy holiday season. 'Sonic 3' bests 'Mufasa: The Lion King' at the box office NEW YORK (AP) — In the holiday season battle of big-budget family movies, Paramount Pictures’ “Sonic the Hedgehog 3” sped past the Walt Disney Co.’s “Mufasa: The Lion King” to take the top spot at the box office. The results came just ahead of the lucrative Christmas corridor in theaters. According to studio estimates, “Sonic the Hedgehog 3” debuted with $62 million in ticket sales over the weekend. “Mufasa,” however, was humbled in its opening weekend, coming in notably shy of expectations. It returned just $35 million in domestic ticket sales.

Young Men’s Social Club 1 Devonshire Cougars 0 Social Club captain Ryan Parris scored the lone goal in the second half to lead Young Men’s Social Club to an important victory over fellow strugglers Devonshire Cougars at Police Field on Sunday Parris, who scored with just over 20 minutes of the game remaining, was thrilled with the victory, which moved his side up to eighth position and three points clear of the relegation zone. “We needed to bounce back,” Parris said. “We started well with a few victories and then slacked off, so these three points are vital. “We needed to win this and we looked good for most of the game. We stuck together, limiting them to very few chances.” Social Club opened the game with attacking intent and their forward-thinking mindset earned them two golden opportunities to break the deadlock. A corner from Giniko Butterfield was poorly cleared by the Cougars defence and striker Josh Hardtman tried to prod the ball into the net, but Cougars stand-in goalkeeper, forward Domico Coddington, made an excellent reflex save. A few minutes later Malique Wilson should have found the target off a deflected cross by Jakida Richardson. Cougars had one of their few sustained periods of possession in the middle of the first half but Social Club's deep defensive line allowed them to keep their opponents at bay between the centre circle and penalty area. Social Club striker Hardtman was replaced by Jomeko Mallory at half-time with an apparent injury and the home side started to use the left-sided duo of Jakida Richardson and Pierre Smith more often. They also stepped their defence up to the halfway line, and that was the tactical switch to pay dividends. Substitute Mallory intercepted a loose pass by Cougars captain Zeko White. He played a beautiful switch to Trey Tucker, who held it up and played it through perfectly for Parris to side-foot first-time past the despairing arms of Coddington. Cougars' profligacy in the final third and lack of composure on the ball continued in the final 20 minutes when they huffed and puffed with very little result. Their best chance fell to Jayori Beach, who dragged his shot wide from Jazario Brimmer’s cutback SCORERS Social Club: Parris 69 TEAMS Social Club (4-2-3-1): S Tuzo 6 – T Tucker 6, K Butterfield 6 (sub: C Woolridge, 75min), K Smith 6, J Richardson 5 – A Matthews 6, R Parris 6 – M Wilson 5, G Butterfield 5, P Smith 6 – J Hardtman 5 (sub: J Mallory, 46 5). Substitutes not used: J Seymour, T Butterfield, B Swan. Devonshire Cougars (4-1-4-1): D Coddington 6 – O Smith 5, M Thomas 6 (sub: L Thomas, 76), Z White 5, N Carmichael 5 (sub: Cashun Brangman, 90) – Z Simmons 6 (sub: N Simmons, 83) – M Paynter 5, D Daniels 5, S Burrows 5, J Fox 5 – Chae Brangman 5 (sub: J Brimmer, 76). Booked: Carmichael, Paynter, Daniels. Referee: J Springer (Barbados)SPARTA, Mich. , Dec. 4, 2024 /PRNewswire/ -- ChoiceOne Financial Services, Inc. announced today that its Board of Directors has declared a cash dividend on the Corporation's common stock of $0.28 per share. The cash dividend is payable to shareholders of record as of December 13, 2024 , and will be paid on December 31, 2024 . The dividend declared for the fourth quarter of 2024 is $0.01 higher than the dividend paid in the third quarter of 2024 and fourth quarter of 2023. ChoiceOne Financial Services, Inc. is a financial holding company headquartered in Sparta, Michigan and the parent corporation of ChoiceOne Bank, Member FDIC. ChoiceOne Bank operates 36 offices in parts of Kent , Lapeer , Macomb , Muskegon , Newaygo , Ottawa , and St. Clair Counties in Michigan . ChoiceOne Bank offers insurance and investment products through its subsidiary, ChoiceOne Insurance Agencies, Inc. ChoiceOne Financial Services, Inc. common stock is quoted on the NASDAQ Capital Market under the symbol "COFS." For more information, please visit Investor Relations at ChoiceOne's website at www.choiceone.bank . View original content to download multimedia: https://www.prnewswire.com/news-releases/choiceone-financial-announces-cash-dividends-302322711.html SOURCE ChoiceOne Financial Services, Inc. © 2024 Benzinga.com. Benzinga does not provide investment advice. All rights reserved.

Kirk Herbstreit, Booger McFarland Spar over Alabama's Exclusion from the College Football PlayoffShare Tweet Share Share Email Why Delays in US Visa Processing Are a Growing Concern The landscape of US visa processing is becoming increasingly complex, with recent changes introducing new obstacles for those seeking to migrate. Delays are no longer just an inconvenience; they are a significant disruption to the lives of families, professionals, and entrepreneurs. These bottlenecks can derail carefully planned career transitions, family reunifications, or even urgent travel for business and education. What’s more concerning is how unprepared many applicants are for the hidden ripple effects of these delays. Beyond the visible frustration of waiting, delays can lead to expired documents, lost job opportunities, and escalating costs—issues that few consider when embarking on the visa journey. These challenges are compounded by shifting regulations, understaffed consulates, and an unprecedented backlog that creates uncertainty. For applicants from India and Pakistan, the stakes are even higher, with processing times at certain consulates becoming notoriously slow. Understanding the causes and preparing accordingly is no longer optional—it’s essential to avoid costly setbacks and maintain control over your migration plans. The Hidden Costs of Delays on Your Migration Plans Visa processing delays are more than just a waiting game—they can have tangible and sometimes irreversible consequences. For individuals and families navigating the complexities of migration, these hidden costs can add up quickly, affecting both finances and emotional well-being. Financial Losses from Prolonged Waiting Times Delays often translate into unexpected expenses. Whether it’s rescheduling travel plans or losing deposits on accommodation, the financial impact can be significant. For professionals and entrepreneurs, delays may mean missed business opportunities or the inability to start a new job on time. Common financial consequences include: Paying for expedited document renewals (e.g., passports, medical tests). Losing income from delayed employment start dates. Increased costs for rebooking flights or extending stays in temporary housing. Additional fees for reapplying if a visa expires during processing. Emotional Toll on Families and Professionals The uncertainty caused by delays takes an emotional toll, especially for applicants who are separated from loved ones or unable to move forward with life plans. Key stressors include: Fear of visa rejection after long waiting periods. Anxiety over missed milestones, such as a child’s school enrollment. Strained relationships due to prolonged family separation. Feeling stuck or helpless as plans remain in limbo. Understanding these hidden costs underscores the importance of taking proactive measures to mitigate delays. By preparing thoroughly and staying informed about potential bottlenecks, applicants can reduce both financial and emotional risks. Proactive Steps to Avoid US Visa Processing Delays While delays in visa processing can feel inevitable, there are practical steps applicants can take to minimize the risk. By being proactive and meticulous, you can reduce unnecessary setbacks and improve your chances of a smooth migration process. How to Ensure Your Documentation Is Error-Free Incomplete or incorrect documentation is one of the leading causes of delays. Even a small oversight can trigger additional reviews or RFEs (Requests for Evidence). To avoid these issues, consider the following: Double-check all forms for accuracy before submission, ensuring names, dates, and personal details match official documents. Provide supporting evidence in a clear and organized manner to reduce ambiguity. Include certified translations for any non-English documents. Stay up-to-date with the latest requirements for your specific visa category to avoid missing newly introduced forms or evidence. Timing Matters—When to Apply to Minimize Delays Applying at the right time can significantly impact processing speed. Key timing strategies include: Submit applications during off-peak periods (avoid holiday seasons or periods known for high application volumes). Schedule consulate appointments early to secure optimal dates before slots fill up. Monitor processing times regularly through official government portals for updates specific to your visa category and location. Leveraging Legal Experts to Expedite the Process Partnering with experienced immigration professionals can provide an edge in navigating delays. They can: Help identify potential red flags in your application. Advise on alternative strategies to expedite approvals. Represent your case effectively in complex scenarios. Taking these proactive steps can help reduce uncertainty and ensure your visa application stays on track despite evolving challenges in the US immigration system. How New Technology Can Help You Stay Ahead In today’s fast-paced world, leveraging technology can be a game-changer when navigating US visa processing. From tracking updates to streamlining communication with consulates, using the right tools can help you stay informed, organized, and proactive during the application process. Tools and Platforms for Real-Time Visa Updates Technology offers various ways to monitor the progress of your visa application and stay updated on policy changes. Consider using: Government Portals: Websites like the US Citizenship and Immigration Services (USCIS) portal provide real-time case status updates. Visa Appointment Trackers: Some third-party apps and websites monitor appointment availability at consulates. Email and SMS Alerts: Many consulates offer notification services for updates on application status or changes in processing times. Streamlining Communication with US Consulates Reaching out to consulates can often feel like navigating a maze. Technology can simplify this process: Online Appointment Scheduling Systems: Book and reschedule interviews online with virtual firms like Dalal and Mehta LLC Document Upload Portals: Submit additional evidence or respond to RFEs electronically to avoid mailing delays. Benefits of Digital Organization Tools Staying organized is critical to avoid missteps that could lead to delays. Tools like cloud storage platforms (e.g., Google Drive, Dropbox) can: Safely store digital copies of essential documents. Enable quick access to files during consulate interviews or RFEs. Prevent loss or misplacement of critical paperwork. By incorporating these technologies into your visa application process, you can stay ahead of potential delays and maintain greater control over your migration journey. What to Do if Your Visa Application Is Delayed Even with careful preparation, delays in visa processing can still occur. Knowing how to respond effectively can help minimize the impact on your migration plans and keep you moving forward. How to Handle Administrative Processing or RFEs If your application is placed under administrative processing or you receive a Request for Evidence (RFE), it’s important to act swiftly and thoroughly. Steps to take include: Carefully review the notification: Understand exactly what information or documentation is being requested. Submit additional evidence promptly: Provide clear, concise, and organized documents within the requested timeframe. Seek professional guidance: An immigration expert can help craft a strong response and clarify any unclear requests. Exploring Alternative Visa Options During Delays If delays persist, you might explore alternative pathways to achieve your migration goals. Consider: Applying for a visa with shorter processing times (e.g., a visitor visa as a temporary option). Investigating visa categories with faster approval rates, such as the EB-1 for highly skilled professionals. Exploring other countries offering similar opportunities while awaiting US visa processing. Escalation Strategies for Severe Delays For prolonged delays that threaten critical deadlines, escalation might be necessary. Options include: Filing an expedited processing request if you can demonstrate urgent circumstances (e.g., a medical emergency or job start date). Requesting congressional assistance: Reach out to your local representative in the US for help in expediting your case. Lodging formal complaints: Use official channels to highlight unreasonable delays, particularly for administrative issues. By taking these steps, you can navigate delays strategically, minimizing disruptions to your migration plans and keeping your journey on track. Act Now to Safeguard Your Migration Goals The process of obtaining a US visa is already complex, but recent changes in visa processing have made it even more challenging. Delays can cause emotional strain, financial burdens, and disruptions to carefully laid plans, whether you are seeking career opportunities, reuniting with family, or starting a new chapter in the United States. The good news is that with proactive preparation, the use of technology, and guidance from experienced professionals, you can mitigate many of these risks. By staying informed about policy changes, avoiding common documentation errors, and taking advantage of tools to streamline your process, you can reduce the likelihood of delays and keep your migration plans on track. However, navigating these complexities alone can be overwhelming. That’s why seeking expert advice is crucial to ensuring success. Don’t let delays jeopardize your future—act now! Contact us today for a consultation with one of our experienced immigration experts. Together, we’ll develop a plan to overcome challenges and bring you closer to your American dream. FAQs About Avoiding US Visa Processing Delays What are the most common reasons for visa delays? Administrative processing, incomplete documentation, and high application volumes are among the top reasons for visa delays. How can I track the status of my visa application? Use the USCIS case tracker or the consulate’s online tracking tools to get real-time updates. What is administrative processing, and how long does it take? Administrative processing refers to additional background checks. It can take anywhere from a few weeks to several months. Can I request expedited processing for my visa? Yes, in urgent situations like medical emergencies or job start dates, you can file a request for expedited processing with supporting evidence. Are certain visa types more likely to experience delays? Yes, visas such as tourist (B-2), family-based, and employment-based visas may face longer processing times depending on demand. What should I do if my visa interview is delayed? Regularly check for rescheduled appointment slots or contact the consulate directly for guidance. Can I work while waiting for my visa to be approved? It depends on the visa type. For instance, H-1B applicants may be eligible for interim work authorization if their visa is under renewal. How do I prepare for a Request for Evidence (RFE)? Respond promptly with all required documents, ensuring they are clear, organized, and error-free. Is there a way to prevent visa delays entirely? While delays cannot always be avoided, careful planning, complete documentation, and expert guidance can significantly reduce risks . When should I contact an immigration expert for help? It’s best to seek professional advice before applying, but even if you’re facing delays, consulting an expert can help expedite solutions. Would you like to schedule a consultation? At Dalal & Mehta , we are committed to helping you every step of the way. If you have any questions or need help with your immigration journey, please contact us at 732-283-7400 . Schedule a consultation today and let us help you turn your dreams into reality . Related Items: Migration Plans , US Visa Processing Share Tweet Share Share Email Comments

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After 3 million meals, Mother’s, a gathering place for Ravens fans, will closeAzealia Banks issues cease & desist letter against The 1975’s Matty Healy and demands $1million in damages after “threats of violence”