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Hanoi Chokes on Smog: Air Quality Plummets to ‘Very Unhealthy’ Levels

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Hanoi

Hanoi, Vietnam : Hanoi residents are struggling to breathe as the city’s air quality nosedives to “very unhealthy” levels. With four areas reaching hazardous zones, authorities urge caution and urge residents to limit outdoor activities.

A City Cloaked in Haze:

On Wednesday morning, Hanoi’s air quality monitoring systems painted a grim picture. All 35 stations registered AQI (Air Quality Index) between 100 and 300, with four locations in Hoan Kiem, Bac Tu Liem, Nam Tu Liem, and Thanh Tri Districts exceeding 300, meaning “very unhealthy.”

Health Risks on High Alert:

Environmental agencies strongly advise avoiding outdoor activities when AQI reaches this level. Masks become essential for those who must venture outside, while vulnerable groups are urged to stay indoors and minimize exertion.

Global Recognition of a Local Woe:

IQAir AirVisual, a Swiss air quality monitoring platform, ranked Hanoi the third most polluted city globally on Wednesday morning. However, they predict a significant drop in pollution with rising wind speeds on Thursday.

U.S. Embassy Monitoring Paints a Similar Picture:

The U.S. Embassy’s monitoring stations confirmed the severity, recording an AQI of 273, firmly in the “very unhealthy” category. Vietnamese app PAM Air paints an even bleaker picture, reporting several locations exceeding 300 AQI, classified as “hazardous” with stay-at-home recommendations.

A Longstanding Battle with Particulates:

A recent World Bank and Hanoi People’s Committee report revealed over 40% of urban residents breathe PM2.5 levels twice the national standards and far exceeding WHO thresholds. The report attributes winter months’ pollution spike to climate change, wind patterns, and agricultural burning.

Locally Generated and Imported Haze:

Experts explain that about a third of Hanoi’s PM2.5 originates within the city, while the remaining two-thirds are transported from surrounding areas. Calm winds and clear skies further exacerbate the air pollution crisis.

A Call for Action:

Hanoi’s struggle with air quality demands immediate attention. Addressing local emission sources, tackling regional contributors, and implementing proactive mitigation measures are crucial to ensuring residents can breathe safely.

Martha Stewart, 82, Sizzles Again: Another Steamy Selfie Raises Eyebrows and Temperatures

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Martha-Stewart

 

Palm Beach, Florida : At 82, Martha Stewart continues to defy convention

 and challenge expectations, both in the kitchen and on social media. Her latest Instagram post? A steamy bathroom mirror selfie showcasing h

er playful attitude and proving that age is just a number when it comes to rocking a nightgown.

From Poolside Pout to Silver Nightgown Glow:

Echoing her iconic 2020 poolside selfie that sent the internet into a frenzy, Stewart swapped pool floats for a luxurious silver nightgown. Captioning the post, “Didn’t look so bad when I got up at least not as bad as I did when I went to bed – it must be the $$$$$outfit!!” she playfully credits her morning glow to her chic nightwear.

A Seasoned Selfie Pro:

This isn’t Stewart’s first foray into the “thirst trap” territory. From TikTo

k tutorials on “projecting fabulous” to sizzling vacation snaps, she’s embraced the trend with her signature wink and a dash of tongue-in-cheek humor. As she told PEOPLE in 2020, “I love doing those promiscuous, provocative things, because it’s just fun.”

Beyond the Buzz:

While the selfie sparks conversation and ignites social media, it’s worth remembering that Stewart’s influence extends far beyond a provocative pose. A lifestyle icon and culinary queen, she continues to inspire ge

nerations with her entrepreneurial spirit, creative energy, and infectious zest for life.

More Than Just a Selfie:

 

Martha Stewart’s latest Instagram post is more than just a thirst trap – it’s a reminder that confidence and joy have no age limit. It’s a celebration of self-expression and defying expectations. And it’s a testament to her ability to stay relevant and connect with audiences in unexpected ways.

Join the Conversation:

What do you think of Martha Stewart’s latest selfie? Does age matter when it comes to embracing bold trends and playful self-expression? Share your thoughts and join the discussion!

Big Hurt Not Dead Yet: Frank Thomas Blasts Fox News For Fake News Obituary

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Frank-Thomas

Chicago, Illinois (Trending SEO Keywords: Frank Thomas, Baseball Hall of Famer, Fox News, In Memoriam, Mistaken Identity): Baseball legend Frank “The Big Hurt” Thomas is alive and well, despite being mistakenly announced as deceased by Fox News during their “In Memoriam” segment for 2023. The mix-up left Thomas understandably frustrated, prompting him to call out the network for their “irresponsible” error.

A Mix-Up With Major Mistakes:

Instead of honoring the late Frank Thomas, a three-time All-Star who passed away in January, Fox News accidentally used footage of the Hall of Fame slugger from his playing days. This blunder not only spread misinformation but also caused unnecessary distress to Thomas and his fans.

Taking to Social Media:

The Big Hurt wasted no time in correcting the record, taking to Twitter to express his disbelief and disappointment. “Ladies and Gentlemen I’m very sorry my ex employer Fox would be this irresponsible on National TV this morning,” he wrote. “Yes I’m alive and doing well. This blows my mind also.”

Fox News Issues Apology:

Following Thomas’ public outcry and online attention, Fox News finally acknowledged the mistake on air. Host Julie Banderas issued a correction, admitting they “misidentified” the late Frank Thomas and clarifying that the athlete shown was the very much alive “Big Hurt.”

Lessons Learned (Hopefully):

This incident highlights the importance of accuracy and fact-checking in media, especially when dealing with sensitive information like obituaries. While human error is inevitable, such a significant misstep on a national platform demands reflection and improvement from Fox News.

Beyond the Blunder:

The story serves as a reminder of the enduring legacy of Frank Thomas, whose name remains synonymous with baseball greatness. It also sheds light on the power of social media in holding media outlets accountable and ensuring accurate information reaches the public.

Myles Garrett: Beyond the Browns’ Playoff Joy, a Personal Loss Takes Center Stage

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https://www.nbcsports.com/watch/nfl/profootballtalk/garrett-stefanski-deserve-dpoy-coy-love

Cleveland, Ohio (Trending SEO Keywords: Myles Garrett, Cleveland Browns, Grief, Overcoming Adversity, Mental Health): While the Cleveland Browns celebrated their playoff-clinching victory on Thursday night, defensive end Myles Garrett faced a different battle off the field. Just days after losing his beloved uncle on Christmas, Garrett grappled with grief and its impact on his performance.

Openly Expressing Vulnerability:

In a rare moment of vulnerability, Garrett opened up about his loss during his post-game press conference. He acknowledged the “fog” clouding his focus and the internal struggle to reconcile his emotions with his commitment to the team. This raw honesty resonated with viewers, highlighting the human side of athletes beyond the game.

Prioritizing Family:

Garrett emphasized his unwavering devotion to his family, stating he would have “been gone in a second” if his mother needed him. This decision to potentially miss the game speaks volumes about his strength of character and the importance he places on family bonds.

Seeking Support:

Recognizing the need for support, Garrett shared his reliance on family and friends as pillars of strength during this difficult time. His message encourages others to embrace vulnerability and seek help when facing personal struggles, whether in sports or everyday life.

Normalizing Openness:

By openly discussing his grief, Garrett normalizes the conversation around mental health and loss, especially in the often-stoic world of professional sports. He encourages others to prioritize self-care and seek support during challenging times.

A Beacon of Hope:

Garrett’s journey through grief reminds us that everyone encounters difficulties, and athletes are no exception. His resilience and willingness to talk about his struggles offer a beacon of hope and inspiration for anyone facing personal challenges.

Beyond the Browns’ playoff run, Myles Garrett’s story transcends the gridiron. It’s a powerful message about human resilience, the importance of family, and the courage to seek help when facing life’s toughest battles.

Sun Bowl Showdown: Can Oregon State Upset Notre Dame in Top-25 Clash?

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american-football

El Paso, Texas (Trending SEO Keywords: Sun Bowl, Notre Dame Fighting Irish, Oregon State Beavers, College Football Bowl Season, Bowl Game Picks): Get ready for a historic Sun Bowl as two ranked programs, No. 16 Notre Dame and No. 19 Oregon State, collide in a battle for bragging rights and bowl season redemption. Both teams head into this matchup facing significant roster changes, adding intrigue to this second-oldest bowl game in college football history.

Irish Look to Finish Strong:

Notre Dame, despite losing key players to the transfer portal and NFL Draft, enters as 6-point favorites. Their explosive offense, averaging 39.1 points per game, boasts strong depth from past recruiting years. Look for QB Steve Angeli and RB Jeremiyah Love to step into the spotlight and showcase their talents for the future.

Beavers Aim for Upset:

Oregon State, navigating through coaching and player departures, will rely on quarterback Ben Gulbranson’s experience and playmakers like receiver Silas Bolden and running back Deshaun Fenwick to pull off an upset. Matching their program record of 19 wins in two years is within reach, adding extra motivation for the Beavers.

Beyond the Headlines:

  • This marks the first Sun Bowl clash between two AP Top 25 teams since 2008.
  • The Sun Bowl is expected to break its attendance record after selling out in a mere 22 hours.
  • Both teams enter with strong defenses, averaging only 16.1 (Notre Dame) and 21.5 (Oregon State) points allowed per game.

Where to Catch the Action:

  • Kickoff for this Sun Bowl battle is scheduled for 2 p.m. ET on Friday, December 29th.
  • Watch the game live on CBS or stream it on Paramount+.

Prediction and More:

SportsLine’s advanced model, boasting significant profit on top-rated picks, projects a high-scoring affair with over 58 combined points. They also have a strong lean towards one side of the spread, which you can discover by visiting their website.

Don’t miss this top-25 clash in the Sun Bowl! Tune in to see if Notre Dame’s offensive firepower or Oregon State’s underdog grit prevails in this exciting bowl season showdown.

Missouri vs. Ohio State: Can Tigers End Bowl Losing Streak Against Buckeyes?

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american-football2

Arlington, Texas (Trending SEO Keywords: Cotton Bowl Classic, Ohio State Buckeyes, Missouri Tigers, College Football Bowl Season, Bowl Game Picks): Missouri aims to break their four-game bowl losing streak as they face the formidable Ohio State Buckeyes in the 2023 Cotton Bowl Classic. While Ohio State boasts a 10-1-1 all-time record against the Tigers and enters as 5.5-point favorites, Missouri brings momentum and a potent running game to the table.

Ohio State’s Offensive Challenge:

The Buckeyes’ passing attack faces limitations without quarterback Kyle McCord and star receiver Marvin Harrison Jr. However, their ground game remains strong, led by TreVeyon Henderson who announced his participation. He’ll hope to replicate his recent form – scoring at least one touchdown in nine of his last ten games and exceeding 100 rushing yards in four of his last six. The pressure falls on sophomore quarterback Devin Brown, who has limited experience, to manage the game effectively.

Missouri’s Running Threat:

Led by senior running back Cody Schrader, Missouri boasts one of the nation’s best rushing teams. Schrader sits fourth in the country with 1,489 yards and has run for at least 100 yards in five straight games. He provides a consistent offensive weapon and could exploit Ohio State’s 24th-ranked run defense.

Additional Factors:

  • Missouri’s sophomore wideout Luther Burden III, ranked 10th nationally in receiving yards, offers another offensive weapon for the Tigers.
  • Ohio State’s defense, ranked third in the nation in total defense and first against the pass, will be a stern test for Missouri’s offense.

Prediction and Where to Find More:

SportsLine’s advanced computer model, boasting a strong profit record on top-rated college football picks, projects a combined score of 58 points, suggesting an offensive shootout. They also have a strong lean on one side of the spread, which you can discover by visiting their website.

Stay tuned for further updates and follow the thrilling clash between Missouri and Ohio State as they battle for bragging rights and to end their respective narratives in the Cotton Bowl Classic!

Gator Bowl Showdown: Can Clemson Extend Win Streak Against Kentucky?

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american-football

Jacksonville, Fla. (Trending Football Keywords: Gator Bowl, Clemson Tigers, Kentucky Wildcats, Dabo Swinney, Bowl Season): With a winning streak on the line and history in the making, Clemson football takes on Kentucky in the Gator Bowl Friday night. The Tigers look to extend their victory run to five games and secure their 13th consecutive season with at least nine wins.

A Season of Resilience:

Clemson (8-4) overcame a slow start, bouncing back from a 4-4 record to reel off four wins, including triumphs over ranked rivals Notre Dame and North Carolina. Head coach Dabo Swinney, praising his team’s determination, noted, “We’ve played tough and been very physical. The guys kept coming and we finished well.”

First-Ever Clash:

This marks the first-ever meeting between Clemson and Kentucky on the gridiron since the Tigers’ 2009 Music City Bowl victory under Swinney in his first full season. The matchup signifies Swinney’s 20th bowl game, a record for ACC coaches, while Clemson notches its 50th bowl appearance, placing them 12th nationally.

Live Score Updates (as of 7:44 left in the second quarter):

  • Kentucky 14, Clemson 10: After a penalty extended the Wildcats’ drive, Dane Key hauled in a 58-yard pass and then a 5-yard touchdown, reclaiming the lead for Kentucky.
  • Clemson 10, Kentucky 7: Phil Mafah found his way into the end zone on a 2-yard touchdown run, capitalizing on good field position and Cade Klubnik’s passing connections with Troy Stellato and Jake Briningstool.

Stay tuned for further updates and follow the thrilling live action as Clemson aims to close out the season on a high note against Kentucky in the Gator Bowl!

India’s Economy Soars: Growth Surpasses Estimates, Consumption Booms

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Finance-ministry

New Delhi, December 29, 2023: India’s economic engine is roaring! The Finance Ministry’s half-yearly review revealed robust performance, surpassing growth projections and painting a bright picture for the future. Here are the key highlights:

Growth Beyond Expectations:

  • Real GDP surged 7.7% in the first half of FY24, exceeding the government’s estimate of 6.5%.
  • Strong domestic demand, fueled by a 4.5% rise in private consumption expenditure, propelled this impressive growth.
  • India emerged as the fastest-growing major economy in H1, attracting positive attention from both domestic and international agencies.

Inflation on the Decline:

  • Core inflation is steadily decreasing, while fuel inflation remains negative, leading to an overall downward trend in headline inflation.
  • RBI projects inflation to average 5.4% in FY24, offering stability and investor confidence.
  • Food inflation remains elevated, particularly in some vegetables, pulses, spices, and fruits, requiring focused attention.

Job Market Flourishes:

  • Urban unemployment rate dropped from 7.2% to 6.6% in Q2, reflecting improving employment opportunities.
  • Net payroll additions under EPFO saw a significant 18.9% year-on-year increase in H1, indicating widespread job creation.
  • Lower exit rate from EPFO further underscores increased job security and employee satisfaction.

Revenue Collection Strong:

  • Net tax revenue jumped 11.2% to ₹13 lakh crore between April and October 2023.
  • Robust growth in corporate (17.4%) and personal income taxes (over 30%) reveals strong economic activity.
  • Consistent high GST collections throughout FY24 reflect the bustling economic atmosphere.

Trade Deficit Reduced:

  • Despite an 8.8% contraction in merchandise exports, the net service trade increased by 15.5%.
  • Overall trade deficit nearly halved to $39.9 billion in H1 compared to the previous year’s $75.3 billion.

Looking Ahead:

India’s economic prospects remain optimistic, with strong domestic demand, declining inflation, and a thriving job market fueling growth. With the government addressing issues like food inflation and trade balance, the future appears bright for the Indian economy.

PM Modi to Unveil Ayodhya’s Transformation Projects: New Airport, Railway Lines, & More

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AYODHYA

Ayodhya, December 28, 2023: Get ready for a major infrastructure boost in Ayodhya, the spiritual heartland of India. Prime Minister Narendra Modi will arrive here on December 30th to officially inaugurate the Maharishi Valmiki International Airport, lay foundation stones for crucial projects, and dedicate railway upgrades, marking a significant step in Ayodhya’s modern development.

Taking Flight with Maharishi Valmiki International Airport:

  • Located 15 km from the city, this state-of-the-art airport will cater to 10 lakh passengers annually, opening doors for increased tourism and connectivity.
  • The terminal building boasts eco-friendly features like LED lighting, rainwater harvesting, and a solar power plant, aiming for GRIHA 5-star rating.
  • An extended runway allows operations of A-321/B-737 type aircraft, paving the way for direct connections to major cities.
  • IndiGo is set to operate the inaugural Delhi-Ayodhya flight, with commercial services commencing on January 6th.

Connecting Through Railways:

  • PM Modi will dedicate three railway projects worth ₹2300 crore, including line tripling, doubling, and electrification initiatives.
  • These upgrades will enhance regional connectivity and boost tourism inflow to Ayodhya.
  • Additionally, two new Amrit Bharat trains (Darbhanga-Ayodhya and Malda Town-Bengaluru) and six Vande Bharat trains will be flagged off, offering faster and more comfortable travel options.

Laying the Foundation for Future Growth:

  • Beyond the airport and railways, PM Modi will initiate development projects worth over ₹11,100 crore.
  • This includes a greenfield township, national highway expansion, bypass modification, a CIPET center, and municipal office construction.
  • These infrastructural advancements aim to create a modern and vibrant living environment for Ayodhya’s residents.

A Momentous Occasion:

PM Modi’s visit to Ayodhya, coinciding with the ongoing construction of the Ram Mandir, signifies a crucial turning point in the city’s evolution. The dedication of new infrastructure projects and the inauguration of the Maharishi Valmiki International Airport promise to unlock unprecedented growth and opportunities for this revered land.