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Microsoft has shared a new method to fix a bug preventing app uninstalls or updates on Windows 10 for those unwilling to deploy this month's preview update. As the company first acknowledged on Thursday, some users have been unable to update or uninstall packaged applications like Microsoft Teams and other third-party apps after receiving the WinAppSDK 1.6.2 package on their Windows 10 22H2. Those affected see the "Something happened on our end" error message in the Microsoft Store's 'Downloads' panel, while IT administrators see 0x80073CFA errors when trying to manage packaged apps using Get-AppxPackage through PowerShell. To prevent more customers from being impacted, Redmond has pulled the WinAppSDK 1.6.2 package to prevent more Windows 10 from being impacted. On Friday, Microsoft released the KB5046714 preview update , which fixes this known issue, but it also shared an alternative workaround for those unwilling to install optional cumulative updates on their systems. "Our analysis into Windows and client logging has determined that this problem may be preventing users from updating or uninstalling packaged apps on Windows 10 devices," Microsoft product manager Roy MacLachlan said . "We've isolated a recent servicing update for the WinAppSDK (ver. 1.6.2) which introduced an issue with the deployment stack processing that resulted in this impact." Microsoft advises impacted users to install the new WinAppSDK 1.6.3 update three times instead of the preview update to fix the app update and installation problems. To check if your Windows 10 system is affected, you have to run the following PowerShell command (which will only return a value if it finds the buggy WinAppSDK 1.6.2 package was installed): Earlier this month, Redmond also pulled the November Exchange security updates after widespread reports from admins that email had stopped flowing on their servers and fixed several bugs causing Windows Server 2025 blue screens and installation issues. Over the weekend, it blocked the Windows 11 24H2 update on computers with some Ubisoft games and eSCL standalone scanners .India’s rail and road expansion isn’t just paving highways—it’s building economic expressways. Think of a developing nation as a moving train or a speeding car. Without solid tracks or smooth roads, the journey is bound to be bumpy, inefficient, and slow. For India, the story of progress is being rewritten with stronger rails and broader highways, ensuring this journey is seamless and swift. A strong network of roads and railways isn’t just about moving people and goods; it’s the engine driving economic growth and connectivity. India’s government recognises this and is accelerating efforts to create a world-class transportation infrastructure. In August, the Union Cabinet approved eight ambitious railway projects to enhance connectivity in eastern states with an investment of 246.6 billion. In November, the Cabinet approved three major multitracking projects across Indian Railways, totalling an investment of 79.3 billion. On the roads front, India’s Vision 2047 policy (becoming a developed nation by 2047) aims to stretch the national highways network to over 200,000 km by 2037, with high-speed, access-controlled highways at its core. These roads will not only cut travel time but also drastically reduce road accidents, aligning India with global standards of logistics efficiency. As India accelerates its journey toward world-class rail and road infrastructure, certain companies stand out as key players in this transformation. Their established presence, proven track record, and robust order books position them to take on the monumental projects driving this expansion. Let’s delve into three specific stocks that are at the forefront of this growth. With their strong foundation and capacity to handle large-scale projects, these companies are uniquely poised to capitalise on the massive opportunities in rail and road development. L&T has cemented its position as a leading player in India’s road and railway infrastructure sectors. With a diverse portfolio that includes metro projects, expressways, and rail systems, L&T brings both scale and technical expertise to the table. According to its latest earnings call for the fiscal second quarter (July-September), L&T reported a record order book of about 5.1 trillion, with 67% stemming from infrastructure projects. L&T’s transportation infrastructure segment has demonstrated robust execution, with recent projects including portions of the Mumbai-Ahmedabad High-Speed Rail and multiple elevated corridors aimed at urban decongestion. The railways segment continues to be a strategic focus for L&T, particularly with its participation in dedicated freight corridors and metro rail projects. The company is heavily involved in the Eastern and Western Dedicated Freight Corridors, projects expected to streamline freight operations and reduce logistics costs. According to its integrated annual report for FY24, L&T’s expertise in executing rail electrification and complex track systems places it in a strong position to benefit from increased government allocations under Vision 2047. On the road infrastructure front, L&T has been instrumental in constructing expressways and smart highways, including projects like the Meerut-Aligarh-Ghaziabad corridor. These initiatives align with the government’s plan to expand the national highway network. Additionally, L&T’s projects increasingly incorporate smart technology such as digital monitoring systems, which enhance efficiency and safety. L&T’s construction and mining machinery business is also expected to see significant growth. According to Arvind K. Garg, senior vice president, the segment is projected to grow by 20% in 2025-26 and double its sales over the next five years. This growth is supported by new product launches like the Komatsu PC35 mini excavator and increased investments in after-sales service capabilities. In parallel, L&T is diversifying into the aerospace and space sectors. The company is leveraging its 50-year relationship with the Indian Space Research Organisation (Isro) to expand into manufacturing launch vehicles and satellites. As per its Q2 disclosures, L&T is part of a consortium with Hindustan Aeronautics Ltd to manufacture the Polar Satellite Launch Vehicle (PSLV). The first launch, expected in 2025, will mark a significant milestone as India opens its space sector to private firms. For investors, L&T’s integrated approach across sectors, coupled with its focus on high-margin projects and technological advancements, positions it as a resilient and forward-looking choice. Its diversified order book, strong execution capabilities, and alignment with government infrastructure initiatives make it a standout player in India’s growth narrative. L&T’s current price-to-earnings (P/E) ratio stands at 36.8, significantly higher than that of other infrastructure companies. This elevated valuation suggests that the market is pricing in a strong growth trajectory and the company’s ability to maintain consistent profitability. However, the modest 2.6% rise in its share price over the past year indicates that the optimism embedded in its P/E ratio has not translated into immediate stock market gains. This time correction perhaps makes it a stock to watch for 2025. GR Infraprojects Ltd has built a strong reputation in the infrastructure space with its expertise in constructing national highways, expressways, and bridges, as well as its growing presence in railway projects, including rail overbridges and track-laying contracts. Its strategic expansion into both sectors reflects its capability to deliver integrated transport solutions, positioning it as a key player in India’s infrastructure development drive. GR Infraprojects continues to strengthen its role as a key player in India’s infrastructure development, contributing significantly to roads, railways, and power transmission. The company’s diversified portfolio demonstrates its strategic approach to capturing opportunities in these high-growth sectors. As of September, the company reported an order book of 20,680 crore, with 13,300 crore allocated for ongoing execution and 4,130 crore awaiting appointed dates. GR Infraprojects highlights progress across several projects, including highway engineering, procurement, and construction (EPC), and hybrid annuity model (HAM) projects. The company has also advanced metro and rail connectivity projects, which it sees as crucial for enhancing urban mobility and freight efficiency across states. It has also strategically diversified into the power transmission sector, aligning with India’s target of achieving 500 GW of renewable energy capacity by 2030. In September, GRIL raised 1,670 crore through Standard Chartered Bank to fund its greenfield power transmission projects. GRIL’s FY24 annual report highlights its long-term plans in power transmission, aiming to build a resilient network that supports the nation’s renewable energy goals. The company has successfully delivered other transmission projects within budget and on schedule, reinforcing its reputation in this emerging vertical. GR Infraproject’s strategic presence in roads, railways, and power transmission positions it as a key beneficiary of India’s infrastructure and renewable energy ambitions. Its ability to execute complex projects across multiple domains, its financial discipline, and proven track record make it an interesting candidate to watch out during India’s road and railway expansion boom. GR Infraprojects’ stock has rallied moderately over the past year, gaining 28.3%. While this reflects a healthy appreciation in its market value, its current price-to-earnings (PE) ratio of 15.6 suggests that the stock remains reasonably valued compared to peers in the infrastructure sector. This PE level indicates that while the market acknowledges the company’s solid fundamentals it has yet to fully price in the GR Infraprojects’ long-term growth potential. The valuation offers room for potential share price upside, provided the company continues to execute effectively and leverage opportunities in its core and emerging sectors. Ircon International Ircon International is a prominent public sector undertaking with expertise in the railways and highways sectors, delivering large-scale and technologically advanced infrastructure projects. Founded in 1976 as a railway construction company, Ircon later diversified into highways and integrated projects, strengthening its multi-sectoral presence. According to its Q2 investor presentation, Ircon had an order book of 24,250 crore as of 30 September, with railways contributing 78% and roads 22%. This reflects the company’s focus on delivering large-scale, technologically advanced projects, including electrification, signalling, and track-laying for railways and highways, bridges, and tunnels in the road sector. Ircon’s FY24 annual report highlights the company’s long-term growth plans, which include diversifying into emerging sectors like renewable energy. Ircon is progressing with its 500 MW solar project, aiming to leverage its engineering expertise in the energy sector to enhance its revenue mix. Additionally, the company is expanding its international footprint cautiously, targeting stable markets while mitigating geopolitical risks. The annual report states that Ircon plans to double its turnover in the next five to six years by securing larger, more complex projects. Ircon’s strategy includes focusing on high-margin, niche projects such as tunnels and bridges, where competition is lower and operational margins remain steady. The company aims to secure 10,000-12,000 crore in new orders annually to align with the government’s infrastructure priorities under PM Gati Shakti and Vision 2047. Over the past year, Ircon’s stock has rallied moderately, posting a gain of 22.4%. Despite this growth, its current price-to-earnings (PE) ratio of 21.4 suggests the stock is relatively fairly valued compared to its peers in the infrastructure sector. Conclusion , Warren Buffett famously remarked. That is precisely the case with India’s infrastructure boom, as investments in railways and highways are not just expenses but milestones marking a transformation in the country’s economic future. With a huge estimated outlay for railway projects and an ambitious plan to expand its road highways network, India is sowing the seeds for unparalleled connectivity and economic upliftment. Beyond the expansion plans, this marks a shift towards environmental sustainability and efficiency in transport. Reducing 322 million litres of oil imports and about 900,000 tonnes of carbon emissions through railway expansions is equivalent to the amount of environmental impact through the planting of 35 million trees. On the other hand, high-speed, access-controlled highways under Vision 2047 redefine logistics efficiency and safety as a comprehensive approach to infrastructure. For investors, the opportunity lies in identifying companies poised to harness this momentum. Firms like Larsen & Toubro, GR Infraprojects, and Ircon International represent a suggestive list of stocks that believes are well-positioned to grow, though this is not a conclusive or advisory recommendation. Whether these companies can continue to deliver at this high level will be a key determinant on how they perform in the stock market.
In conclusion, Reed's comments shed light on the hard-fought nature of the draw with Arsenal and the fighting spirit of the Fulham team. As they continue to battle for survival in the Premier League, Reed's words serve as a reminder of the team's determination and drive to succeed. With a positive mindset and a united front, Fulham will look to build on their performance against Arsenal and push forward towards their objectives.Zheng Qinwen, known for her exceptional talent and remarkable performances throughout the season, was widely expected to be a top contender for the prestigious accolade. Her consistent results, impressive victories, and unwavering determination on the court had set her apart as a standout player in the women's tennis circuit. From defeating higher-ranked opponents to clinching titles at various tournaments, Zheng had undoubtedly made her mark on the tennis world in 2021.
FG, Brazil sign pact to boost agribusinessAs the automotive world eagerly awaits the arrival of the highly anticipated Xiaomi YU7, the Chinese tech giant has announced that the all-new SUV is expected to be officially launched in the market in the summer of 2023. With a promise of cutting-edge technology, innovative design, and exceptional performance, the Xiaomi YU7 is set to make a bold statement in the competitive SUV segment.
Syrian insurgents reach the capital's suburbs. Worried residents flee and stock up on supplies BEIRUT (AP) — Insurgents’ stunning march across Syria is gaining speed with news that they have reached the suburbs of the capital of Damascus. The government on Saturday was forced to deny rumors that President Bashar Assad had fled the country. The rebels’ moves around Damascus were reported by an opposition war monitor and a rebel commander. They came after the Syrian army withdrew from much of southern part of the country, leaving more areas, including two provincial capitals, under the control of opposition fighters. The advances in the past week were among the largest in recent years by opposition factions. The factions are by a group that has its origins in al-Qaida and is considered a terrorist organization by the U.S. and the United Nations. An archbishop's knock formally restores Notre Dame to life as winds howl and heads of state look on PARIS (AP) — France’s iconic Notre Dame Cathedral has formally reopened its doors for the first time since a devastating fire nearly destroyed the 861-year-old landmark in 2019. The five-year restoration is widely seen as a boost for French President Emmanuel Macron, who championed the ambitious timeline, and brings a welcome respite from his domestic political woes. World leaders, dignitaries, and worshippers gathered on Saturday evening for the celebrations under the cathedral's soaring arches. The celebration was attended by 1,500 dignitaries, including President-elect Donald Trump, Britain’s Prince William, and Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy. For Catholics, Notre Dame’s rector said the cathedral “carries the enveloping presence of the Virgin Mary, a maternal and embracing presence.′′ Trump is welcomed by Macron to Paris with presidential pomp and joined by Zelenskyy for their talks PARIS (AP) — French President Emmanuel Macron has welcomed Donald Trump to Paris with a full a dose of presidential pomp. And they held a hastically-arranged meeting with Ukraine’s Volodymyr Zelenskyy on a day that's mixing pageantry with attention to pressing global problems. The president-elect's visit to France is part of a global a celebration of the reopening of Notre Dame Cathedral five years after a devastating fire. Macron and other European leaders are trying to win Trump’s favor and persuade him to maintain support for Ukraine in its defense against Russia’s invasion. Trump isn't back in office but he's already pushing his agenda and negotiating with world leaders NEW YORK (AP) — Donald Trump is making threats, traveling abroad, and negotiating with world leaders. He has more than a month-and-a-half to go before he’s sworn in for a second term. But the president-elect is already moving aggressively to not only fill his Cabinet and outline policy goals, but also to try to achieve his priorities. In recent days, Trump has threatened to impose a 25% tariff on goods from Canada and Mexico, two of the country’s largest trading partners. That led to emergency calls and a visit. And he's warned of “ALL HELL TO PAY” if Hamas doesn't release the hostages still being held captive in Gaza. South Korea's president avoids an impeachment attempt over short-lived martial law SEOUL, South Korea (AP) — South Korea’s embattled President Yoon Suk Yeol has avoided an opposition-led attempt to impeach him over his short-lived imposition of martial law. Most of Yoon's ruling party lawmakers boycotted a parliamentary vote Saturday to deny a two-thirds majority needed to suspend his presidential powers. The scrapping of the motion is expected to intensify protests calling for Yoon’s ouster and deepen political chaos in South Korea. A survey suggests a majority of South Koreans support the president’s impeachment. Yoon’s martial law declaration drew criticism from his own ruling conservative People Power Party. But the party also apparently fears losing the presidency to liberals. Days after gunman killed UnitedHealthcare's CEO, police push to ID him and FBI offers reward NEW YORK (AP) — Nearly four days after the shooting of UnitedHealthcare CEO Brian Thompson, police still do not know the gunman’s name or whereabouts or have a motive for the killing. But they have made some progress in their investigation into Wednesday's killing of the leader of the largest U.S. health insurer, including that the gunman likely left New York City on a bus soon after fleeing the scene. The also found that the gunman left something behind: a backpack that was discovered in Central Park. Police are working with the FBI, which on Friday night announced a $50,000 reward for information leading to an arrest and conviction. UnitedHealthcare CEO's shooting opens a door for many to vent frustrations over insurance The fatal shooting of UnitedHealthcare's CEO has opened the door for many people to vent their frustrations and anger over the insurance industry. The feelings of exasperation, anger, resentment, and helplessness toward insurers aren’t new. But the shooting and the headlines around it have unleashed a new wave of patients sharing such sentiments and personal stories of interactions with insurance companies. Conversations at dinner tables, office water coolers, social gatherings and on social media have pivoted to the topic. Many say they hope the new amplified voices can bring about change for companies often accused of valuing profits over people. 100-year-old Pearl Harbor survivor recalls confusion and chaos during Japanese bombing 83 years ago PEARL HARBOR, Hawaii (AP) — The bombing of Pearl Harbor 83 years ago launched the United States into World War II. Two survivors are planning to return to the Hawaii military base on Saturday for a remembrance ceremony on the attack's anniversary. They are each over 100 years old. They will join active-duty troops, veterans and members of the public for a remembrance ceremony hosted by the Navy and the National Park Service. A third survivor was planning to join them but had to cancel due to health issues. The bombing killed more than 2,300 U.S. servicemen. An explosion destroys an apartment block in a Dutch city, killing at least 3 and injuring others THE HAGUE, Netherlands (AP) — An explosion and fire has rocked a neighborhood in the Dutch city of The Hague, killing three people and injuring other people and destroying several apartments. The cause of the disaster is unclear. Emergency authorities said four people were rescued from the rubble and taken to the hospital. The mayor said rescuers were no longer looking for survivors but for eventual bodies, but could not specify how many people might still be unaccounted for. Residents of the northeastern neighborhood of Mariahoeve in The Hague heard a huge bang and screams before dawn. Dutch authorities have deployed a specialized urban search and rescue team to find victims. How 'Mufasa' rose with Aaron Pierre and Blue Ivy's voices along with new Lin-Manuel Miranda music SAN DIEGO (AP) — When Aaron Pierre was cast as Mufasa, the weight of following in the late James Earl Jones’ legendary footsteps was enough to rattle any actor. But instead of letting the pressure roar too loudly, he harnessed his nerves to breathe fresh life into his young lion character. Pierre found parallels between himself and his character while filming his leading role in “Mufasa: The Lion King,” which opens in theaters Dec. 20. He took the reigns as the new voice of Mufasa after Jones played the iconic King Mufasa in both the 1994 and 2019 versions of Disney’s “The Lion King.” The prequel offers a fresh exploration into Mufasa’s origin story.Title: Incident Report: Ambulance Blocked by Vehicle Owner, Leading to Administrative DetentionA BRIT mum has died at a retreat in Bolivia specialising in psychedelic drug ayahuasca. Maureen Rainford’s daughter was told she collapsed after drinking the substance in a tea. It is the same drug Prince Harry last year controversially admitted taking to help cope after mum Diana’s death. Social worker Maureen’s family stressed she had been fit and healthy and the Amazon commune she visited was billed as a wellness and detox retreat with controlled diets . The mum of three, 54, of Romford, Essex , had booked the £800 ten-day stay last month at the Ayahuasca and San Pedro Pisatahua Retreat. Ayahuasca — an illegal Class A drug in the UK — is handed out at ceremonies by a shaman and causes reactions including visions, energy and euphoria. READ MORE WORLD NEWS Breathing rate plummeted Daughter Rochel, 32, said she was told by a resort official called Eric that Maureen had suffered a “medical emergency”. Others there told Rochel that ten minutes after drinking the ayahuasca tea she complained of feeling unwell as her heart and breathing rate plummeted. She died after an hour despite CPR efforts. A doctor arrived later, the family heard. Rochel told The Sun on Sunday: “There should be a trained medic on standby when hallucinogenic drugs are being handed out in a remote area. Most read in The Sun I want to raise awareness about these places for people tempted by glossy brochures selling a dream “Eric tried to insist that she must be cremated in Bolivia as her body would decompose, but I did not want any cover-up.” Rochel said that after contacting the British consulate, Maureen’s body was returned and a post-mortem confirmed she had suffered a heart attack. East London’s coroner has been informed of the death and the funeral was held last week. Rochel added: “I want to raise awareness about these places for people tempted by glossy brochures selling a dream.” A spokesman for the retreat said “her passing was due to a medical emergency that was not related to ayahuasca”. They added: “Our heart goes out to her family.” Prince Harry was criticised last year for claiming the drug helped him deal with his mum’s 1997 death. He said: “After taking ayahuasca with the proper people I suddenly realised — wow! — it’s not about the crying.”
PARIS — Howling winds couldn’t stop Notre Dame Cathedral ’s heart from beating again. With three resounding knocks on its doors by Paris Archbishop Laurent Ulrich, wielding a specially designed crosier carved from fire-scorched beams, the monument roared back to life Saturday evening. For the first time since a devastating blaze nearly destroyed it in 2019, the towering Gothic masterpiece reopened for worship, its rebirth marked by song, prayer, and awe beneath its soaring arches. The ceremony, initially planned to begin on the forecourt, was moved entirely inside due to unusually fierce December winds sweeping across the Île de la Cité, flanked by the River Seine. Yet the occasion lost none of its splendor. Inside the luminous nave, choirs sang psalms, and the cathedral’s mighty organ, silent for nearly five years, thundered to life in a triumphant interplay of melodies. The restoration, a spectacular achievement in just five years for a structure that took nearly two centuries to build, is seen as a moment of triumph for French President Emmanuel Macron, who championed the ambitious timeline — and a welcome respite from his domestic political woes. The evening’s celebration, attended by 1,500 dignitaries, including President-elect Donald Trump, US first lady Jill Biden, Britain’s Prince William, and Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy, underscored Notre Dame’s enduring role as both a spiritual and cultural beacon. Observers see the event as Macron's, and his intention to pivot it into a fully fledged diplomatic gathering, while highlighting France’s ability to unite on the global stage despite internal political crises. As the cathedral’s largest bell, the 13-ton Emmanuel — which was not named after the French leader — tolled into the Paris night, signaling the start of the ceremony, the crowd inside Notre Dame fell into an expectant hush. Emmanuel, a legacy of King Louis XIV, had rung through centuries of French history, and its peal now resonated as a call to witness another epochal moment. Outside the cathedral’s monumental doors, Ulrich raised his fire-scarred crosier. “Brothers and sisters, let us enter now into Notre Dame,” he declared. “It is she who accompanies us on our path to peace.” With the congregation of over 2,500 people watching in silence, Ulrich struck the floodlit doors, the base of his crosier reverberating against the wood. Inside, the choir answered with soaring hymns, their voices filling the nave. Illuminations on the cathedral facade heightened the drama. On the final strike, the heavy doors swung open, revealing the glowing interior of restored blond Lutetian limestone. Adding to the ceremony’s visual splendor, Ulrich and the clergy wore vibrant liturgical garments designed by French fashion designer Jean-Charles de Castelbajac. Known for his signature pop-art aesthetic, Castelbajac created 2,000 colorful pieces for 700 celebrants, blending modern elements with medieval touches. Flooded with light and song, the cathedral came alive in a moment of breathtaking spectacle. What had been a silent, soot-blackened ruin five years ago now blazed with renewed vitality, marking the culmination of a nearly $1 billion global effort to resurrect it. Speaking inside the cathedral, Macron expressed “gratitude” Saturday to those who saved, helped, and rebuilt Notre Dame, his voice reverberating through the nave. “I stand before you ... to express the gratitude of the French nation,” he said, before voices flooded the space with song, harmonies not heard in over five years. “Tonight, the bells of Notre Dame are ringing again. And in a moment, the organ will awaken,” sending the “music of hope” cascading through the luminous interior to Parisians, France, and the world beyond, he said. The celebration is expected to give a much-needed boost to the embattled French leader, whose prime minister was ousted this week, plunging the nation’s politics into more turmoil. Macron has called Notre Dame’s reopening “a jolt of hope.” Observers say he hoped the occasion would briefly silence his critics and showcase France’s unity and resilience under his leadership — a rare moment of grace in a presidency now facing a grave crisis. Inside Notre Dame, 42,000 square meters of stonework—equivalent to six soccer pitches—gleamed anew, revealing intricate carvings and luminous limestone. Above, 2,000 oak beams, nicknamed “the forest,” restored the cathedral’s iconic spire and roof. The great organ, dormant for over five years, roared back to life like a slumbering giant. With its 7,952 pipes—ranging from pen-sized to torso-wide—and a renovated console featuring five keyboards, 115 stops, and 30 foot pedals, it responded to Archbishop Laurent Ulrich’s command: “Wake up, organ, sacred instrument.” The first low rumble grew into a triumphant symphony as four organists pulled out the stops, weaving improvised responses to the archbishop’s invocations. Eight times, Ulrich addressed the organ; eight times, its voice filled the nave with breathtaking sound. Guests marveled at the spectacle, many capturing the moment on their phones. “It’s a sense of perfection,” said François Le Page of the Notre Dame Foundation, who last saw the cathedral cloaked in scaffolding in 2021. “It was somber then. Now, it’s night and day.” The Rev. Andriy Morkvas, a Ukrainian priest who leads the Volodymyr Le Grand church in Paris, reflected on his first visit to Notre Dame in over a decade. “I didn’t recognize it,” he said. “God is very powerful; He can change things.” He expressed hope that the cathedral’s revival could inspire peace in his homeland, drawing strength from the presence of Ukraine’s president. “I think that will have a big impact,” he said. “I hope Notre Dame and Mary will help us resolve this conflict.” The reopening of Notre Dame comes at a time of profound global unrest, with wars raging in Ukraine and the Middle East. For Catholics, Notre Dame’s rector said the cathedral “carries the enveloping presence of the Virgin Mary, a maternal and embracing presence.′′ “It is a magnificent symbol of unity,” Olivier Ribadeau Dumas said. “Notre Dame is not just a French monument — it is a magnificent sign of hope.” The international range of dignitaries coming to Paris underline the cathedral’s significance as a symbol of shared heritage and peace. Canadian visitor Noelle Alexandria, who had traveled to Paris for the reopening, was struck by the cathedral’s ability to inspire. “She’s been nearly ruined before, but she always comes back,” Alexandria said. “Not many of us could say the same after such tragedy, but Notre Dame can.” Guests entered through Notre Dame’s iconic western façade, whose arched portals adorned with biblical carvings were once a visual guide for medieval believers. Above the central Portal of the Last Judgment, the Archangel Michael is depicted weighing souls, as demons attempt to tip the scales. These stone figures, designed to inspire both awe and fear, set the stage for a ceremony steeped in history. Inside, the hum of hundreds of guests awaiting the service filled the cathedral with human sounds once more — a stark contrast to the construction din that echoed there for years. Tuners restoring the great organ often worked through the night to find the silence needed to perfect its 7,952 pipes, ranging from pen-sized to torso-wide. Notre Dame echoed to the sound of a sustained standing ovation after the showing of a short movie that documented the gargantuan rebuilding effort. Outside, the word “MERCI” — thank you — was projected against the cathedral’s iconic western facade. The movie showed the terrible wounds left by the inferno — the gaping holes torn into its vaulted ceilings and the burned roof. But that was followed by images of all types of artisans, many using traditional handicraft techniques, who collectively restored Notre Dame to look better now than ever. "We went from night to light," said one of the workers in the movie. Security will be high through the weekend, echoing measures taken during the Paris Olympics earlier this year. The Île de la Cité — the small island in the River Seine that is home to Notre Dame and the historic heart of Paris— is closed to tourists and non-residents. Police vans and barriers blocked cobblestoned streets in a large perimeter around the island, while soldiers in thick body armor and sniffer dogs patrolled embankments. A special security detail followed Trump. For many, Notre Dame’s rebirth is not just a French achievement but a global one — after the reopening, the cathedral is set to welcome 15 million visitors annually, up from 12 million before the fire.
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The iconic "Assetto Corsa" series, beloved by racing enthusiasts and gaming fans alike, has once again captured the hearts of players as its latest brand event kicked off on Steam. With a legacy of realistic physics simulation, breathtaking graphics, and a deep commitment to authenticity, "Assetto Corsa" has established itself as a leading name in the world of virtual racing.In a world filled with chaos and uncertainty, where darkness threatens to consume all that is good, a new hero emerges armed with nothing but the power of music. "Melody," a unique and innovative music-based puzzle game, has officially been released, promising players a truly immersive and magical gaming experience like never before.
Elon Musk’s preschool is the next step in his anti-woke education dreams
ATLANTA (AP) — Georgia quarterback Carson Beck will not return after he was hit on his throwing hand on the final play of an ugly first half Saturday in the Southeastern Conference championship game against Texas. Beck was hit by outside linebacker Trey Moore, forcing a fumble recovered by Anthony Hill Jr., who then lost the ball on an errant attempt to extend the play with a lateral as time expired. Beck was one of the last players to return to the field following halftime. He was holding his helmet but did not warm up remained on the sideline as backup Gunner Stockton led the offense to its first touchdown on the Bulldogs' first drive of the second half. Georgia coach Kirby Smart told ESPN Beck would not return to the game and said he had no details on the hand injury. Beck had the right arm wrapped in ice on the Georgia bench. No. 2 Texas outgained No. 5 Georgia 260-54 but led only 6-3 at halftime. The Bulldogs netted minus-2 yards rushing and Beck completed 7 of 13 passes for 56 yards. 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 man, who had quietly battled with illness for years, had always expressed a desire to give back to society in any way he could. In a final act of kindness, he decided to donate his organs to those in need, offering a second chance at life to strangers who would benefit from his selfless gift.Chelsea have been in scintillating form this season, thanks in large part to their incredible attacking prowess. One man who has been particularly impressed by their attacking display is former English goalkeeper, Richard Wright. In a recent interview, Wright expressed his admiration for Chelsea's attacking style and singled out Aaron Ramsdale as the perfect choice for their goalkeeper position.
The season of giving: Ways to help in Surrey this ChristmasReal Life Don't miss out on the headlines from Real Life. Followed categories will be added to My News. Dressed head-to-toe in black, Owlvine Green’s fingers hover over a steaming cauldron as a cat looks on, ominously. Candles flicker, casting eerie shadows on the wall. Incense smokes, and a spell book — filled with mystical, arcane symbols — is laid open in front of her. It’s a scene that wouldn’t look out of place in a Harry Potter film. But this isn’t a movie. This is an unassuming home in suburban Melbourne, and Owlvine is a real-life witch. “We’re everywhere — young and old, in the inner city and out in the middle of the bush,” the 36-year-old told news.com.au. “You could be sharing a desk with one of us, or living on the same street.” From the Wizard of Oz to The Craft , the black-caped, cackling witch has been a fixture in popular culture — sand a subject of fascination and fear — for centuries. But if you think that these magical beings belong only within the pages of a storybook or on the big screen, think again. Today, tens of thousands of Australians identify as witches and globally, we’re in the midst of a bona fide witchcraft boom. Rise of the ‘Insta Witch’ While a fascination with the occult is nothing new, witchcraft has never been as big, or as mainstream. But why? And why now? “A huge part of the rising popularity is social media and the internet,” said Owlvine. “It’s so easy to jump online and find information. Once upon a time, it was really difficult to find a willing teacher, or even get your hands on the few occult books available – now we have abundant information at our finger tips.” Owlvine’s own journey to witchcraft began in childhood. Growing up in a conservative Christian environment in the southeastern suburbs of Melbourne, she began to question her parents’ religion and her place within it. “I realised that every religion professed that they had ‘the one right way’ to god, which was incredibly confusing to me,” she recalled. “But it caused me to look deeper, to question, and to wonder what the common denominators were, and from where the first religions began.” But it wasn’t until, at the age of 24, she stumbled upon the online witching community that she began to explore witchcraft in earnest. Owlvine is one of Australia's many real-life witches. Picture: Instagram/@owlvine.green “At the time, I felt very alone,” she explained. “I didn’t know anyone who was interested in magic but, thanks to YouTube, I discovered a community of like-minded practitioners, both in Australia and overseas.” Since that day, Owlvine has become one of the most popular witches on the video platform, with close to 40,000 subscribers who tune in to see her vlog on a variety of subjects, from crystals and moon cycles to herbs and spell-casting. Indeed, she is just one of a new wave of modern witches who are showcasing their passion for “the craft” via videos and posts covering spells, tarot cards, crystals, potions, clairvoyance and everything in between. And it’s this new crop of social media sorceresses who are primarily fuelling the resurgence of witchcraft in the country. “When I started 30 odd years ago, there was a handful of books and no internet,” said spokesman for the Australian Pagan Network David Pan. “And now information is so much more widely available. Anyone can find what they’re looking for online and through various social media channels and see what resonates with them.” Witchcraft as seen on screen The image of the witch has been a staple in pop culture for the last century, but it’s only in the last few decades that we’ve seen a major PR job done on the witch archetype. Beautiful, political and environmentally-minded feminists, today’s witches are as far away from the clichéd old broomstick-riding hook-nosed hags of our childhood storybooks as you can get. And they can be found on big and small screens alike with ever-increasing frequency, with the likes of Sabrina, A Discovery of Witches and Mayfair Witches adding to the swag of older shows such as Buffy the Vampire Slayer, Harry Potter, Charmed and The Vampire Diaries. There’s clearly a direct correlation between the increasing presence of fictional witches and the rise of real life ones. Witches have always been popular on screen. Picture: AP Photo/Warner Bros, Murray Close Kiernan Shipka in the Chilling Adventures of Sabrina. “I think pop culture has a massive part to play,” said Owlvine. “In the past, movies and TV shows often cast the witch as hugely unsavoury characters. Now we’re seeing witches depicted as young, modern people we can relate to.” David — who has been practising witchcraft for more than 40 years — also believes that the popularisation of the witch on screen has been one of the biggest factors in the explosion of interest both in witchcraft and the occult in general. “The first biggest explosion of interest, I remember, was back when The Craft movie came out,” he said. “The internet was new and there were all types of ways to access information. Every second contact I got back then was from some young girl wanting to change the colour of her eyes or hair with magic.” A rejection of organised religion The fastest-growing religion in the western world is, in fact, no religion at all. The 2016 Census showed that “religious nones” now make up a quarter of the population (a huge change from 50 years ago, when 88 per cent of the population identified as Christian). Clearly, organised religion has fallen on hard times . But with archaic, dogmatic institutions built on judgment and hellfire, is it really surprising? And while interest in traditional religions is decreasing, interest in pagan and nature-based faith systems (including witchcraft) is on the rise — more than 33,000 people claimed an affiliation with a nature religion, including paganism and Wicca. “Many people have been returning to the ‘old ways’ as they have become disenfranchised,” David said. The fastest-growing religion in the western world is, in fact, no religion at all. Picture: NCA NewsWire/Ian Currie “Both with organised religions, and the corruption within them.” The clear distinction with witchcraft is that it isn’t a religion. You can practise any religion and still practise witchcraft. And while there’s no formal religious texts or Ten Commandments equivalent, Wicca has what’s known as the “threefold law”, which roughly states that whatever energy you send out will come back to you three times over. “A common misunderstanding is that all witches are all the same,” added Owlvine. “Some witches do consider it their religion, but many don’t. Witches come from all walks of life: rich and poor, male and female, young and old — anyone can be a witch. “Witchcraft is a fluid path, as I grow as a person I am able to weave who I am and what I’m learning in to my magical practice. I think people are hungry to bring all of that into their spiritual lives too, rather than simply following someone else’s rules.” The appeal of hocus pocus A big part of the obvious appeal in the mystical world of the witch is the ability to perform spells. After all, with the potential to attract love, money, or success — all by uttering a quick “abracadabra” or by carrying the right combination of crystals — it’s easy to see why many jump on the witch bandwagon. “One of the most common questions I’m asked when people find out that I’m a witch is: ‘do you cast spells?’” said Owlvine. A big part of the obvious appeal in the mystical world of the witch is the ability to perform spells. “After all, who wouldn’t want to be able to cast a spell with the flick of a magic wand?” Magic and the magic aesthetic — as evidenced via the trending #witchesofinstagram hashtag (which currently has more than 10 million posts) — is a big part of the appeal of being a witch. But the importance of casting spells differs in the practices of witch to witch. “Spells play a fairly large part in my practice,” added Owlvine. “How often I cast depends on what’s going on in my world at the time and what I need. Most often I do spells that relate to protection for me and my family, creating harmonious atmospheres, for focus in study and work, or to help support me in achieving my goals. “Modern witches are all about harmony and not about claiming external power over others.” The future of witchcraft With social media posts increasing daily and online occult sites and courses skyrocketing, it’s clear that the modern-day version of the witch is here to stay. And in a world as stressful and turbulent as ours — one in which our search for meaning and control is becoming more and more urgent — it’s understandable. Witchcraft offers both a community and the potential to harness control in a world that it is increasingly fraught and fractioned. “Witchcraft has completely shifted the way I live my life and view myself,” Owlvine explained. “Before coming to the craft I was incredibly anxious, depressed and had a strong victim mentality. Now I understand how much power I actually have over my experience in this life. “I know that when times get tough, I have tools that help me get through difficulties. I am a completely different person to who I was five years ago, and all for the better.” But despite witchcraft having gone global, there’s unfortunately a lot of stigma still attached and “coming out of the broom closet” is a rite of passage that many witches must go through. “I have experienced people who are curious and excited to know that I’m a witch,” said Owlvine. “But on the other hand, I have met some very narrow-minded people who have reacted in a negative way towards me. However, I’m lucky that my husband and my teenage son accept me for who I am.” Paul Ewart is a freelance writer | @_paulewart More Coverage Albo ‘tanking’ his own election promise Courtney Gould ’Crippling’ mystery solved after 64 years Judy King Originally published as Modern-day witchcraft is on the rise in Australia as support for organised religion plummets Join the conversation Add your comment to this story To join the conversation, please log in. Don't have an account? Register Join the conversation, you are commenting as Logout More related stories Lifestyle Sick video shows teen ‘dragged by genitals’ Disturbing footage shows a worker at a centre for people with autism grabbing a 19-year-old by the genitals and dragging him as he cries in pain. Read more Real Life ‘Hidden shame’: Stigma affecting Aussies There’s an “urgent” public health crisis impacting Australian women that nobody is talking about, with many slipping through the cracks. Read more
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