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Music title: JUST A DREAM - Talhah Yunus | JJ47 | Prod. by Jokhay Signer: Talhah Yunus | JJ47 Release date: 2/10/2025 Official YouTube link:

KARACHI: Amid ongoing efforts by the government to stabilise, improve the country's economic indicators, brokerage firm Arif Habib Limited (AHL) projecting to decline to its lowest level in nearly a decade, with the Consumer Price Index (CPI) for February expected to ease to 1.99%year-on-year (YoY), The News reported. The projection is based on the first week’s data from the Sensitive Price Index (SPI), which also suggests a month-on-month (MoM) CPI decline of 0.37%.The prediction comes against the backdrop of headway in restoring economic stability and rebuilding external buffers as highlighted by Fitch Ratings saying that rapid disinflation reflected fading base effects from earlier subsidy reforms and exchange rate stability, supported by a tight monetary stance that subdued domestic demand and external financing needs. Expecting real value-added growth of 3.0% in FY25, it noted that the economic activity is now benefiting from stability and falling interest rates, having absorbed tighter policy settings. The overall decline is primarily attributed to a significant drop in food prices, with the food index registering a 1.7% month-on-month (MoM) decrease. The sharpest declines were seen in essential commodities such as tomatoes, onions and potatoes. Conversely, transport costs edged up by 1.4% MoM, driven by a slight increase in petroleum prices. Meanwhile, the housing index fell by 0.2% MoM due to higher negative Fuel Cost Adjustment (FCA) adjustments. AHL's sensitivity analysis indicates that inflation could fluctuate within a broader range depending on month-on-month changes. If MoM inflation shifts between -1.5% and +1.5%, the CPI for February could vary between 0.8% and 3.9% YoY. The anticipated decline in inflation aligns with expectations of easing price pressures, potentially influencing monetary policy decisions in the coming months. The CPI inflation eased significantly to 2.4% YoY in January 2025, down from 4.1% in December and a staggering 28.3% recorded in January 2024, according to data released by the Pakistan Bureau of Statistics (PBS) on Monday. In FY23, inflation reached over 29%; inflation touched an all-time high of 37.97% in May 2023. However, it has been on a downward trajectory since then. On a month-on-month basis, CPI inflation edged up slightly by 0.2% in January, compared to a 0.1% increase in the previous month and a 1.8% rise in January 2024. According to brokerage firm Topline Securities, inflation during 7MFY25 has averaged 6.5% compared to 28.7% in 7MFY24. It further adds that this is the "lowest reading in 111 months (over nine years)". https://www.geo.tv/latest/589770-inflation-projected-to-shrink-below-2-in-feb

Dear Readers: Many of you wrote in about the “Tossed Kittens” column and told me where I missed some points. I appreciate the feedback and want to share a few of these letters: Dear Annie: I was horrified to read about the woman who abandoned three kittens in the wild, especially after they had been socialized. There were so many alternatives available to her, including bringing them to a no-kill shelter, rather than discarding them in the woods to face almost certain suffering. Four years ago, a small cat began sleeping on my porch, and within weeks, I found myself caring for a colony of 17 cats and kittens. I reached out to a local no-kill shelter, which guided me through the process of trapping, neutering and releasing. While most shelters cannot take unsocialized ferals, they can often find homes for socialized cats and kittens. Eventually, I converted a heated recording studio on my property into a shelter for the hard-to-place feral cats. It is expensive to feed them and provide medical care, but it’s a small price to pay compared to the alternative. Cats left in the wild often survive only a couple of years. They face hunger, harsh weather, exhaustion and predators. Unspayed females have multiple litters as early as four months old, and two unneutered cats can produce up to 60 kittens in just two years. Knowing this, my heart breaks for abandoned animals. The woman who left these kittens in the wild displayed a shocking lack of empathy. I can only hope that she does not have children who witnessed her callous behavior. If I were her mother, I’d send her to volunteer at an animal shelter to learn compassion and responsibility. Thank you for your column, Annie. I hope my letter encourages others to think twice about abandoning domesticated animals and to seek humane solutions instead.Dear Annie: I absolutely love your column! Having said that, I feel I must take exception to your answer to the woman whose daughter abandoned three kittens somewhere after raising them for seven months as indoor cats. No. 1: The daughter’s actions are considered animal abuse, which is a misdemeanor in some jurisdictions and a felony in others. No. 2: The nanosecond the mom learned of this action, she should have grabbed the daughter and gone searching for the kittens. No. 3: Why would anyone want a relationship with someone so very cruel? Unless it’s to make sure she doesn’t pull the same trick on a future (or current) grandchild. No. 4: Thanks for letting me vent. You are CLEARLY a much nicer person than me in general. No. 5: Keep up the good work. You are indeed a stellar human being. -- Grateful Dear Annie: Regarding your advice to the mother who was disgusted that her daughter put house cats out to fend for themselves, I think you missed a crucial note. People wanted to adopt them, and she wouldn’t let them. I’m betting she put these kittens out unspayed and/or unneutered, which quickly adds to the stray pet po[CENSORED]tion. More than 359,000 dogs were euthanized in 2023, marking a five-year peak, according to animal advocacy group Shelter Animals Count. Meanwhile, 330,000 cats were euthanized in 2023. Please use your valuable journalistic resource to help save lives and improve things for everyone. We have domesticated animals and made them reliant on us, and we all have a responsibility to be kind to them. https://www.adn.com/alaska-life/advice/2025/02/09/dear-annie-lessons-on-responsibility-and-compassion-for-animals/

Pakistan's Haris Rauf reacts after a delivery during the World Cup 2023 match between New Zealand and Pakistan at the M Chinnaswamy Stadium in Bengaluru. — AFP/File LAHORE: Pakistan's team management has decided not to include injured right-arm speedster Haris Rauf in playing XI for the upcoming Tri-Nation ODI series match against South Africa. Rauf suffered injury during the previous play against New Zealand a day ago. The next match is scheduled to be played at the National Bank Stadium in Karachi on February 12.Following MRI and X-ray scans, the Pakistan Cricket Board (PCB) confirmed today Rauf sustained a muscular sprain in the lower chest wall region during Saturday's match against New Zealand. "The injury is not serious and he is expected to be fully recovered for the ICC Champions Trophy 2025, which commences in Karachi on 19 February." However, as a precautionary measure and part of his ongoing rehabilitation, he will not be available for selection against South Africa on Wednesday. Rauf left the field midway during the 38th over of New Zealand's innings in the opening match of the series at the Gaddafi Stadium and after undergoing medical assessment, was diagnosed with a low-grade side strain. Notably, Haris took one wicket for just 23 runs in his 6.2 overs during the match. His absence left a void in the home side's bowling attack, which was taken to the cleaners by Glenn Phillips in the last 10 overs. The 31-year-old also did not walk out to bat as Pakistan succumbed to a gruelling 78-run defeat in the crucial match. Meanwhile, the national team are set to depart for Karachi today and will hold a training session at the newly renovated National Bank Stadium on the eve of the must-win game against South Africa. Pakistan squad for Tri-Nation series, Champions Trophy 2025 Mohammad Rizwan (c), Babar Azam, Fakhar Zaman, Kamran Ghulam, Saud Shakeel, Tayyab Tahir, Faheem Ashraf, Khushdil Shah, Salman Ali Agha (vc), Usman Khan, Abrar Ahmed, Haris Rauf, Mohammad Hasnain, Naseem Shah and Shaheen Shah Afridi. https://www.geo.tv/latest/589825-tri-nation-series-injured-haris-rauf-likely-to-be-rested-for-south-africa-match

Wondering how to store your food inside the fridge to maximise its cooling efficiency and reduce chances of food spoilage? Indianexpress.com spoke to culinary experts and found out where they store particular food items inside the fridge, and some common mistakes people make that can increase chances of contamination. Celebrity chef Ananya Banerjee shared that fridges have areas with different temperatures and humidity levels, hence proper storage ensures each food type remains fresh. Top Shelf (Consistent Temperature): Ideal for ready-to-eat foods: leftovers, drinks, yogurt, butter, and cheese. Keep items in airtight containers to avoid odor contamination.By: Lifestyle Desk New Delhi | Updated: February 9, 2025 19:37 IST Newsguard clock_logo2 min read facebook twitter whatsapp Reddit Do you know how to organise your fridge?Do you know how to organise your fridge? (Source: Freepik) Wondering how to store your food inside the fridge to maximise its cooling efficiency and reduce chances of food spoilage? Indianexpress.com spoke to culinary experts and found out where they store particular food items inside the fridge, and some common mistakes people make that can increase chances of contamination. Celebrity chef Ananya Banerjee shared that fridges have areas with different temperatures and humidity levels, hence proper storage ensures each food type remains fresh.Vegetables: Wash and dry vegetables before storing (excess moisture promotes spoilage). Use perforated bags or wrap leafy greens in paper towels to manage humidity.Dairy: Milk and cream should be stored on a middle or bottom shelf for consistent temperature. As for cheese, wrap in wax paper or parchment before placing it in an airtight container. Avoid plastic wrap. Meat, Fish, and Poultry: Always store in sealed containers or vacuum-sealed bags. If not using within 1–2 days, freeze to extend shelf life. Some common mistakes to avoid Chef Murali Purushottam, Cluster Chef, CHA by Bellona Hospitality agreed, adding that overloading the fridge hinders airflow and cooling efficiency. On the other hand, storing warm food directly raises the internal temperature and risks spoilage. Leaving ingredients uncovered leads to drying or odour transfer. Banerjee mentioned that air circulation is crucial for even cooling. Avoid improper sealing and overcrowding by keeping space between items. https://indianexpress.com/article/lifestyle/life-style/fridge-effectively-organise-your-refrigerator-for-maximum-efficiency-9729732/

MUZAFFARGARH: Police launched a crackdown across Punjab and arrested Pakistan Tehreek-i-Insaf (PTI) leaders and workers for violating Section 144 during protests called by the party on Feb 8. The Layyah police arrested MPA Shoaib Amir Awan at his residence, while another MPA was detained in Layyah’s Chobara area. The arrests were recorded in a viral video on social media. Cases were registered against Awan in Chowk Azam and Chobara police stations, and he was shifted to an undisclosed location. The crackdown followed the imposition of Section 144, as PTI supporters attempted to hold protests.In Muzaffargarh, demonstrations led by MNA Jamshed Dasti and Shafiq Malana were recorded, with reports of scuffles with the police. SAHIWAL: In Sahiwal and Pakpattan, around 70 PTI workers and leaders, including MPA retired Maj Ghulam Sarwar, were arrested. Raids were conducted at multiple locations, and PTI leaders claimed that many of their workers were picked up from their homes. Police confirmed the arrest of 15 PTI activists in Sahiwal, but PTI leaders contested the number, claiming at least 40 were detained. In Pakpattan, 43 party workers were arrested, and police set up 15 checkpoints with 250 officers to prevent further protests. GUJRAT: At least eight PTI workers were arrested near Kunjah, Gujrat, as they attempted to stage a protest led by Sumaira Elahi. Police dispersed the remaining workers and lodged formal cases against the detainees. In Alipur Chattha, a small rally was led by PTI Central Punjab President MNA Muhammad Ahmed Chattha, where participants carried party flags and demanded the release of Imran Khan. However, major roads in Gujrat remained calm as police maintained a heavy presence at key intersections and bridges. LAHORE: In Multan, PTI leaders Meher Bano Qureshi, Zahid Bahar Hashmi, and Diler Mahar were arrested while leading a protest. The arrests took place at PTI’s divisional headquarters, with police detaining several workers as well. In a video statement from police custody, Meher Bano Qureshi stated that they were being moved to an undisclosed location. OKARA: Police booked 68 PTI workers, including 51 nominated individuals, and arrested six activists in two separate protest rallies. Mehr Abdul Sattar, a PTI provincial assembly ticket holder, led a rally from village 11/4L, chanting slogans against the government. Police intercepted them near Tabrook-Shahbore road, warning them against violating Section 144. The protestors allegedly clashed with police, resulting in injuries to two constables. Cases were registered under various sections of the Pakistan Penal Code and the Punjab Sound Systems Regulation Act. A second rally, led by PTI National Assembly ticket holder from NA-138, was intercepted in Basirpur. Four activists were arrested, while several others were booked under Section 188 PPC. https://www.dawn.com/news/1890783/dozens-arrested-in-crackdown-on-pti-protests-in-punjab

Music title: Hotboii - Z What I Z (Official Video) Signer: Hotboii Release date: 2/4/2025 Official YouTube link:

When Donald Trump's fortunes took a downturn in the 90s and he needed to raise cash fast, he sailed his 282ft (85m) superyacht, the Trump Princess, to Asia hoping he could attract Japan's wealthy. It wasn't the first time the businessman had sought out Japanese buyers or lenders for his projects. In the cut-throat world of New York real estate, Trump had a front-row seat from his Fifth Avenue skyscraper of Tokyo's buying spree in the 80s of iconic US brands and properties, including Rockefeller Center. It was then that his worldview on trade and America's relations with its allies was formed, and his fixation on tariffs, a tax on imports, began. "He had a tremendous resentment for Japan," says Barbara Res, a former executive vice-president at the Trump Organization. He watched with jealousy as Japanese businessmen were viewed as geniuses, she says. He felt America wasn't getting enough in return for assisting its ally Japan with military defence. What are tariffs and why is Trump threatening them? Trump often complained that he had difficulties doing deals with large groups of Japanese businessmen. "I'm tired of watching other countries ripping off the United States." That Trump quote could've been pulled from 2016, but it's actually from the late 80s when he made an appearance on CNN's Larry King Live, around the time he first floated his name as a potential presidential candidate. Fresh from sharing his business philosophy in his 1987 book, The Art of the Deal, Trump went on a tirade against America's trade policies in national interviews. In an animated interview with Oprah Winfrey before a live studio audience on The Oprah Show, he said he would handle foreign policy differently by making the country's allies "pay their fair share". He added that there wasn't free trade when Japan was "dumping" products into America's market but making it "impossible to do business" there.Jennifer Miller, an associate professor of history at Dartmouth College, said others shared his concerns about the economy at the time. Japan provided competition for US manufacturing, particularly in consumer electronics and cars. As US factories were shuttering and new Japanese brands entered the market, pundits were talking about Japan surpassing the US as the world's leading economy. "Trump is sort of symbolic of a lot of people who were kind of questioning American leadership in the American-led international order, and whether it actually served the United States," Prof Miller says. Before his Oprah appearance, Trump had spent almost $100,000 to release an "open letter" in full-page ads in three major US newspapers. The headline read: "There's nothing wrong with America's Foreign Defense Policy that a little backbone can't cure." In it, he said Japan and other nations had been taking advantage of the US for decades. He claimed "the Japanese, unimpeded by the huge costs of defending themselves (as long as the United States will do it for free), have built a strong and vibrant economy with unprecedented surpluses". Trump believed the obvious solution was to "tax" these wealthy nations. "The world is laughing at America's politicians as we protect ships we don't own, carrying oil we don't need, destined for allies who won't help," he wrote. https://www.bbc.com/news/articles/c4gp5pw654lo

Porky Porky is a 1 to 3-year-old male. Porky may be little, but he’s gat a BIG personality packed into this adorable frame. He is a super sweet and spunky guy who loves to bring smiles to everyone he meets. Whether it’s zooming around with his toys, snuggling up for some quality cuddle time, or showing off his playful side, he knows how to keep life fun and full of love. Butterball Butterball is a 3 to 5-year-old male. You might not notice it at first, but he is a little different from your typical kitty — he’s got some unique medical needs, but we promise he is worth the extra care. Butterball does require special food and close monitoring to keep him feeling his best. But here’s the thing: despite his challenges, he is the sweetest cat you’ll ever meet. Butterball will shower you with all the love and affection you could ever want. If you are interested in meeting any of the animals available for adoption at the Cape Coral Animal Shelter, visit CapeCoralAnimalShelter.com for more information. All animals adopted through the Cape Coral Animal Shelter are spayed/neutered, up to date on all age-appropriate vaccines and microchipped. The shelter is at 325 S.W. 2nd Ave., Cape Coral, and hours of operation are Tuesday and Thursday, noon to 5 p.m., and Friday through Sunday, noon to 4 p.m. Please call 239-573-2002 for more information. If you are interested in meeting any of the animals available for adoption at The Cape Coral Animal Shelter, visit its website at www.capecoralanimalshelter.com for additional information. The shelter is located at 325 S.W. 2nd Ave., Cape Coral, and hours of operation are Tuesday and Thursday, noon to 5 p.m., and Friday through Sunday, noon to 4 p.m. Please call the CCAS at 239-573-2002 for additional information. https://www.capecoralbreeze.com/opinion/local-columns/2025/02/07/cape-coral-animal-shelter-looking-for-a-loving-home-porky-butterball/

The Chevrolet Blazer might not be around much longer. A new report from GM Authority, citing “sources close to that matter,” alleges the automaker will eliminate the gas-powered crossover from its American lineup after 2025. Sales for the stylish crossover continued to fall last year, down 20 percent from 2023. Chevy sold the most Blazers in its second model year, nearly reaching 95,000 units sold, but it has never replicated that level of success since. The Blazer first went on sale in 2019 in the US.Motor1 reached out to Chevrolet to verify the report. A Chevy spokesperson declined to comment on the report, saying only the company had no portfolio changes to share.Chevy builds the Blazer at its Ramos Arizpe plant in Mexico, where it also assembles an assortment of electric vehicles from General Motors, like the Chevrolet Blazer EV, the Equinox EV, and the Cadillac Optiq—and the Honda Prologue. Automotive News reported this week that GM eliminated a shift at the factory, reducing it to just two.A January 2023 tweet from Mexico’s Economic Ministry announced GM would produce only electric vehicles at the facility in 2024, but that deadline has passed. The Blazer shares a platform with the Cadillac XT5 and XT6, which GM Authority also reports could get cut after 2025. https://www.motor1.com/news/750015/chevrolet-blazer-dead-after-2025/