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Troops are deployed to the Middle East. Pentagon Press Secretary Air Force Brig. Gen. Pat Ryder briefs the news media at the Pentagon.

Pentagon Press Secretary Air Force Brig. Gen. Pat Ryder briefs the news media at the Pentagon.

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.Pentagon Press Secretary Air Force Brig. Gen. Pat Ryder briefs the news media at the Pentagon.

The Pentagon spokesperson, in this press briefing, discussed several key topics related to the Middle East and U.S. involvement in the region. Here is a summary of the important points covered in the briefing:

  1. Support for Israel: The Department of Defense remains actively engaged in the Middle East, particularly in supporting Israel’s right to defend itself from terrorist attacks. This includes providing Israel with security assistance to restore security and protect its citizens. The assistance includes precision-guided munitions, small diameter bombs, artillery ammunition, Iron Dome interceptors, and other critical equipment.
  2. Humanitarian Aid and Civilians: The U.S. emphasizes the importance of safeguarding innocent civilians on both the Palestinian and Israeli sides of the conflict. Efforts are underway to ensure the delivery of humanitarian aid to those in need.
  3. Deterrence and Force Protection: The U.S. is working to deter a broader regional conflict and protect its forces in the region. The Pentagon has deployed additional military capabilities in the area, including the arrival of the New Jersey Air National Guard’s 119th Expeditionary Fighter Squadron with F-16 Fighting Falcon aircraft. The aim is to protect and defend U.S. partners and interests in the region.
  4. Iranian Involvement: The spokesperson mentioned that Iranian proxy forces have conducted attacks on U.S. and coalition forces in Iraq and Syria. The U.S. believes these groups are supported by the Iranian Revolutionary Guard Corps (IRGC) and the Iranian regime. There are concerns about the potential for further escalation involving Iran.
  5. Response to Attacks: The Department of Defense is prepared to protect U.S. troops and interests and will respond to threats at a time and place of its choosing. The focus is on ensuring force protection and responding decisively if necessary.
  6. Aiding Allies: The U.S. is working closely with allies like Israel and Ukraine to meet their munitions requirements. Efforts are underway to ensure a steady supply of necessary munitions and support.
  7. Engagement with China: There is a desire to maintain engagement between the U.S. and China’s defense leaders to prevent misunderstandings and potential miscalculations.
  8. Experts on Urban Combat: The U.S. is providing advisory support to Israel, including experienced military experts who can help with planning for scenarios involving urban combat. These experts aim to provide advice rather than direct the Israeli Defense Forces’ actions.

Overall, this press briefing highlights the U.S. commitment to supporting its allies, particularly Israel, and its readiness to protect its interests and forces in the Middle East. The U.S. aims to deter further escalation and ensure the delivery of humanitarian aid while emphasizing the importance of safeguarding civilians in the ongoing conflict. The potential for further escalation involving Iranian proxy forces is a growing concern, and the U.S. stands ready to respond if necessary.

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North Korean Troops on European Soil: A Historic and Dangerous Expansion of the Conflict in Ukraine

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In a development that has raised alarm bells across the globe, recent reports confirm that North Korean troops have been deployed on European soil, specifically in Russia’s Kursk region, marking a significant and unprecedented escalation in the ongoing conflict with Ukraine. This move is not only historic but is seen by many as a dangerous expansion of the war that has been raging since February 2022.

The presence of North Korean soldiers in Europe has been acknowledged by NATO Secretary General Mark Rutte, who labeled it as a “dangerous expansion” of the conflict in Ukraine. This observation comes amid growing concerns about the internationalization of the war, which has already drawn support from numerous countries in various capacities.

The deployment of North Korean troops in Ukraine is a stark reminder of how international conflicts can evolve in unexpected and dangerous directions. It underscores the interconnectedness of global security issues, where actions in one part of the world can significantly impact stability far beyond its borders.

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Lifestyle

Fall and Winter Adventures on warm days at the Lake of the Ozarks

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Lake Ozark, MO — As the vibrant hues of summer fade into the warm, golden palette of fall, the Lake of the Ozarks transforms into a haven for autumn enthusiasts. Known primarily for its summer allure, this Missouri gem offers a plethora of activities for visitors to immerse themselves in the beauty and tranquility of the fall season.

Nature’s Palette on Display

Autumn at the Lake of the Ozarks is synonymous with breathtaking fall foliage. With over 1,100 miles of shoreline, the area boasts some of the Midwest’s most picturesque landscapes. The trees, particularly the maples, ashes, oaks, and hickories, don their most spectacular colors from mid to late October. Visitors can enjoy these sights via:

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  • Scenic Drives: A 37-mile drive from Versailles down Highway 5 to Camdenton is recommended for those looking to soak in the fall colors. The route provides stunning views, especially where the road crosses the lake at bridges like Hurricane Deck and Niangua.
  • Hiking: Lake of the Ozarks State Park, Missouri’s largest park, offers over a dozen trails ranging from easy strolls to challenging hikes. Trails like Coakley Hollow and Lake View Bend are favorites for their scenic beauty and diversity of ecosystems.
  • Boating: With fewer crowds, fall is an ideal time for boating. The calm waters mirror the brilliant leaves, making for a serene experience. Boaters can participate in the annual Harbor Hop, a poker run event that’s as much about enjoying the scenery as it is about the thrill of the game.

Outdoor Adventures

  • Fishing: As water temperatures drop, fishing heats up. Anglers can target catfish, black bass, and white bass, with November being particularly fruitful. The Lake’s annual Big Bass Bash offers a chance to win big, with past winners reeling in over 10-pound catches.
  • Golfing: The Lake of the Ozarks Golf Trail features over a dozen courses designed by legends like Arnold Palmer. The fall weather provides ideal conditions for golfers to enjoy not only the challenge of the greens but also the stunning backdrops of autumnal scenery.
  • Caving: For those interested in exploring underground, the Lake area is home to several caves like Bridal Cave and Stark Caverns. These offer a cool, constant temperature escape from the fall weather, showcasing unique geological formations.

Cultural and Festive Events

  • Wine Tasting: Although the Lake doesn’t boast an official wine trail, several local wineries provide perfect settings for tasting events amidst the fall scenery. Special seasonal wines and wine-infused cuisine at places like Seven Springs Winery are highlights.
  • Local Festivals: The fall season brings community events like the Fall Harbor Hop, where boaters collect cards for the best poker hand, and the BikeFest, attracting motorcycle enthusiasts for a rumble through the Ozark hills.

Relaxation and Reflection

  • Photography: With the natural beauty at its peak, fall is a photographer’s dream. From capturing the first light on the mist-covered lake to the setting sun highlighting the colorful foliage, every moment is a potential masterpiece.
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Missouri Amendment 5, the Osage River Gambling Boat License Initiative, is on the ballot in Missouri as an initiated constitutional amendment

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A “yes” vote supports allowing the Missouri Gaming Commission to issue one additional gambling boat license to operate on the portion of the Osage River from the Missouri River to the Bagnell Dam.
A “no” vote opposes allowing the Missouri Gaming Commission to issue one additional gambling boat license to operate on the portion of the Osage River from the Missouri River to the Bagnell Dam.

The official ballot title is as follows

Do you want to amend the Missouri Constitution to: allow the Missouri Gaming Commission to issue one additional gambling boat license to operate on the portion of the Osage River from the Missouri River to the Bagnell Dam; require the prescribed location shall include artificial spaces that contain water and are within 500 feet of the 100-year base flood elevation as established by the Federal Emergency Management Agency; and require all state revenues derived from the issuance of the gambling boat license shall be appropriated to early-childhood literacy programs in public institutions of elementary education? State governmental entities estimate one-time costs of $763,000, ongoing costs of $2.2 million annually, initial fee revenue of $271,000, ongoing admission and other fee revenue of $2.1 million annually, and annual gaming tax revenue of $14.3 million. Local governments estimate unknown revenue.

Text of Section 39(e): Riverboat Gambling Authorized on Missouri and Mississippi Rivers–Boats in Moats Authorized

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1. The general assembly is authorized to permit upon the Mississippi and Missouri Rivers only, which shall include artificial spaces that contain water and that are within 1000 feet of the closest edge of the main channel of either of those rivers, lotteries, gift enterprises and games of chance to be conducted on excursion gambling boats and floating facilities. Any license issued before or after the adoption date of this amendment for any excursion gambling boat or floating facility located in any such artificial space shall be deemed to be authorized by the General Assembly and to be in compliance with this Section.

2. Notwithstanding any other provision of law to the contrary, lotteries, gift enterprises, and games of chance may be conducted on excursion gambling boats and floating facilities licensed by the Missouri Gaming Commission upon the portion of the Osage River from the Missouri River to the Bagnell Dam, which shall include artificial spaces that contain water and that are within 500 feet of the 100-year base flood elevation as established by the Federal Emergency Management Agency.

3. Notwithstanding any other provision of law to the contrary, in addition to such licenses as have been authorized prior to January 1, 2024, the Missouri Gaming Commission shall issue one additional excursion gambling boat license. Such license shall only be issued to an excursion gambling boat that will operate upon the portion of the Osage River from the Missouri River to the Bagnell Dam.

4. Notwithstanding any other provision of law to the contrary, all state revenues derived from the issuance of excursion gambling boat licenses issued after January 1, 2024 shall only be appropriated to early-childhood literacy programs in public institutions of elementary education and shall not be included within the definition of “total state revenues” in section 17 of article X of this constitution.

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5. The state auditor shall perform an annual audit of the revenues received and appropriated pursuant to this section to ensure they are being used only for authorized purposes. The state auditor shall make such audit available to the public, the governor, and the general assembly.

Opposition

Opponents

American Indian Tribes

  • Osage Nation

Arguments

  • Meg Cunningham, reporter at The Beacon: “The amendment comes amid an effort from Osage Nation to build a casino at the Lake of the Ozarks. Osage Nation acquired land at the Lake of the Ozarks in 2021 and officially launched a plan to build a casino, which requires coordination with the federal government and clearance from the governor.”
  • The Osage River Gaming and Convention (Yes on 5) is the campaign registered in support of the initiative.

    Support
    The following table includes contribution and expenditure totals for the committees in support of the measure.

    Committees in support of Amendment 5

Status of gambling in Missouri
As of 2024, there are certain forms of gambling in Missouri that are legal:
Casino gambling: As of 2024, there were 13 licensed riverboat casinos in Missouri. The casinos must be located on or near a body of water. The Missouri Gaming Commission oversaw the licensing and regulation of these casinos.[2]
Lottery: The Missouri Lottery was created in 1985. The proceeds from the lottery support public education in the state.[6]
Charitable gaming: Charitable games, including licensed bingo, pull-tabs, merchandise coin boards, was restricted to qualified licensed religious, charitable, fraternal, veteran, and service organizations. All bingo tax was deposited into the Proceeds for Education Fund.[7]
Daily Fantasy Sports: Daily Fantasy Sports was legalized in Missouri in 2016. DFS operators must be licensed by the Missouri Gaming Commission and adhere to regulations designed to protect consumers. Operators include DraftKings, FanDuel, and others.[8]
As of 2024, sports betting was illegal in the state. Illegal gambling, including unlicensed games, was prohibited. The Missouri Gaming Commission was responsible for enforcing gambling laws and regulations in the state.[2]
Casinos in Missouri
As of 2024, there were 13 casinos operating in Missouri. They were:
Ameristar Casino Resort Spa: Located in St. Charles, Missouri[9]
Ameristar Casino Hotel: Located in Kansas City, Missouri[9]
Argosy Casino Hotel & Spa: Located in Riverside, Missouri[9]
Bally’s Kansas City: Located in Kansas City, Missouri[9]
Century Casino Cape Girardeau: Located in Cape Girardeau, Missouri[9]
Century Casino Caruthersville: Located in Caruthersville, Missouri[9]
Harrah’s North Kansas City: Located in North Kansas City, Missouri[9]
Hollywood Casino St. Louis: Located in Maryland Heights, Missouri[9]
Isle of Capri Casino Hotel: Located in Boonville, Missouri[9]
Horseshoe St. Louis: Located in Downtown St. Louis, Missouri[9]
Mark Twain Casino: Located in La Grange, Missouri[9]
River City Casino & Hotel: Located in Lemay, Missouri[9]
St. Jo Frontier Casino: Located in St. Joseph, Missouri

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