9jili The Kimberley Curling Club (KCC) hosted the 2025 Safetek Profire BC U18 Curling Championships from Dec. 19 to 23. "We were thrilled with how everything went," said KCC general manager Blair Jarvis. "We knew that most teams were travelling a long way to get here and unfortunately they had to deal with some adventures with the snow we had last Wednesday. "We wanted to make sure that we gave them an experience that they would remember, so we spent a lot of time on the ice, we wanted to give them a great social experience off the ice as well and we heard from a number of curlers that it was the most U18 event that they’ve attended and so we’re really proud of that fact." The event had 12 teams competing on the Boys' side and seven Girls teams. On the Boys side of the competition, Team Jaeger out of Kelowna beat out Team Hrynew in the finals and for the Girls, Team Arndt from Vernon beat out Team Rempel to win the gold. With these wins, Team Jaeger has earned a spot at the Canadian Under-18 Curling Championships, which will be held at the Nutana Curling Club in Saskatoon, Sask. from Feb. 16-22, 2025. Teams Arndt and Rempel will both be headed to the Nationals. Team Jaeger was made up of coaches Tyler Jaeger and Travis Wielgosz, Lead Brendan Hruschak, Second Noel Wielgosz, Third Spencer Rempel and Skip Owen Jaeger. "We really worked hard this year, this year we really wanted to win," said Skip Owen Jaeger. "We put in a lot of work and it just feels really, really good to win and for all that hard work to pay off. We’re really, really excited, it’s our first National event, first U18 provincial win so we’re really excited." Team Arndt is Coach David Arndt, Lead Alicia Evans, Second Ivy Jensen, Third Bethany Evans and Skip Ava Arndt. "We’re just super excited," said Skip Ava Arndt. "It took us a couple years to get here, but the hard work payed off and we can’t believe it, I don’t think it’s sunk in yet. It’s been a lot of hard work from us and the coaches and the parents. It’s been amazing." Jarvis coached Kimberley's Team Reynolds, who went on to win bronze. "We had set a target of making the playoffs and really happy with how the boys came together," Jarvis said. "They had a couple of games with a tough start and battled back and so the resilience they showed and how they stayed positive, there were a lot of great things we can take away from that. And the bronze medal, we were just thrilled to do that. "We saw Team Jaeger on the boys side and Team Arndt on the girls side as well — if we want to get to that level next year, we have some things to work on and it’s great to see the high level of curling in this province and so I think we’ve come away very motivated as well about what we need to do to get better if we want to be a little higher on the podium next year." Jarvis extended his gratitude to the over 50 volunteers who helped out before, during and after the event, including members of the Cranbrook Curling Club. "We’ll take some of the learnings from this event and apply them to the High School Provincials at the end of February, but we’re really happy with how everything went," he said. "And this is an event for the kids, we want to make sure that they’re going to have an experience that they’ll remember, the teams that had success will obviously remember the things that happened on the ice, but for most kids it will be the experiences they had off the ice. "We had karaoke here on the one night and a bunch of teams were intermingling together and having a great time and those are the experiences that I’m going to take away from this event." Patti Caldwell was head official for the event and Jarvis said she and Ian Milligan worked tirelessly throughout the week. "Patti’s attitude is this is all for the kids and making sure that they have fun and sure it’s a competition, but it’s meant to be fun and we’re going to enjoy this," Jarvis said. "This is a sport that we can enjoy for life and so you want to make sure you’re building positive memories in every aspect." Lindsay Shannon, administrative and event manager at Curl BC, was also on hand for the event, and presented all the awards. "We would just like to thank the Kimberley Curling Club and the City of Kimberley who put on an amazing event here and welcomed all of our athletes who have performed so well," Shannon said. "We're really looking forward to cheering our winners on at the Nationals." The Kimberley Curling Club's next big event is the High School Provincials from Feb. 26 to March 1.

Aircraft cabins are sophisticated environments designed to provide comfort, safety, and efficiency for passengers traveling thousands of feet above the ground. However, while cabin flooding is rare, it can disrupt this controlled environment and pose significant challenges to flight safety and operations . While the idea of water pooling in an aircraft cabin mid-flight may seem far-fetched, such occurrences have been reported, leaving passengers and aviation experts alike questioning how such events happen and their broader implications. The NTSB concluded that a maintenance error was the likely culprit for an emergency onboard a Delta Air Lines flight from Prague. Recent high-profile incidents, such as the flooding of an American Airlines cabin caused by an overflowing lavatory sink, have thrust this issue into the spotlight. These events reveal vulnerabilities in aircraft systems and maintenance protocols, offering critical lessons for the aviation industry. This article will examine the causes, mechanics, and implications of cabin flooding, along with the roles of various stakeholders in addressing and preventing such incidents. Why is cabin flooding a critical issue? Although rare, cabin flooding is a serious issue that highlights potential failures in aircraft systems, maintenance, and operational management. Water pooling inside a pressurized cabin poses safety risks, disrupts flight operations, and causes discomfort and panic among passengers. We aim to shed light on this unusual yet critical issue through case studies and examining aircraft systems, the root causes of cabin flooding, the stakeholders involved, and the more significant implications for the aviation industry. For example, a recent American Airlines flight from Hawaii to Alaska had to turn back after the first-class lavatory sink malfunctioned, causing water to flood the cabin floor. According to the Economic Times , the flooding reached about four inches in some areas, creating chaos among passengers and forcing the flight crew to take emergency measures. This incident underscores the importance of understanding how such events occur, their potential impact, and how they can be mitigated. The location of the lavatories is a space-efficient solution to the aircraft's considerable cargo capacity. Date Airline Flight Details Incident Description December 7, 2024 American Airlines Dallas, Texas, to Minneapolis, Minnesota Water leaked from a rear restroom, flooding the cabin aisle. According to the New York Post , passengers lifted their feet and belongings to avoid the water. The crew was unable to stop the leak during the flight. August 7, 2024 American Airlines Dallas-Fort Worth, Texas, to Madrid, Spain According to The Sun , the flight was diverted to JFK Airport in New York due to an overflowing lavatory. Passengers were accommodated overnight and rebooked on a new flight the following day. March 29, 2024 United Airlines Frankfurt, Germany, to San Francisco, California A lavatory overflowed, causing waste to spill into the cabin. According to The Hill , the Boeing 777 returned to Frankfurt approximately two hours into the flight. Passengers were provided hotel accommodations and flown to San Francisco the next day. March 29, 2024 Alaska Airlines Honolulu, Hawaii, to Anchorage, Alaska A lavatory sink overflowed, flooding the aisle with up to four inches of water. The Boeing 737 MAX 9 returned to Honolulu after about two hours in flight. View From The Wing reported that passengers were rebooked on later flights. Who is responsible for preventing cabin floods? When a cabin flood occurs, multiple stakeholders share responsibility, including airlines, aircraft manufacturers, maintenance teams, and even passengers. Each plays a unique role in preventing, managing, and responding to such incidents. Airlines Airlines are at the forefront of cabin flooding incidents, as they are responsible for maintaining aircraft and managing in-flight emergencies. For instance, during the recent American Airlines flooding incident, the flight crew’s actions, as reported by Yahoo News , were critical in ensuring passenger safety. However, the disruption caused by the flooding also led to financial and reputational costs for the airline. Aircraft Manufacturers Manufacturers design the systems that manage water onboard, such as lavatory plumbing and drainage. Any flaws in these systems can contribute to incidents. Flightradar24 notes that modern aircraft water systems are engineered to handle substantial water volumes while minimizing risks. However, malfunctioning components like valves or pumps can lead to leaks or overflows. Maintenance Teams Maintenance teams are responsible for identifying and addressing potential vulnerabilities in water systems before they escalate. However, oversights or improper maintenance practices can exacerbate risks. In the American Airlines case, as noted by People Magazine , investigators pointed to possible maintenance lapses as a contributing factor to the overflowing lavatory sink. Passengers While passengers are less directly responsible, their behavior can influence the likelihood of incidents. Improper lavatory use, such as overloading sinks or flushing inappropriate items, can strain aircraft water systems. According to OLE , tampering with these systems can cause blockages or mechanical failures. The lavatory of the 737 MAX 8 was reportedly leaking water. What causes cabin flooding? To understand cabin flooding, it’s essential to examine the mechanics of aircraft water systems and the factors that can lead to malfunctions: System Malfunctions Aircraft water systems are complex, involving pressurized tanks, pipes, valves, and pumps. These systems supply potable water to lavatories and galleys while securely managing waste. A failure in any component, such as a blocked drain, malfunctioning valve, or burst pipe, can lead to water spilling into the cabin. In the case of the American Airlines flight, the Economic Times reported that an overflow in the first-class lavatory sink caused significant flooding. Maintenance Oversights Poor maintenance practices are a common contributing factor. Regular inspections and repairs are essential to ensure water systems function correctly, yet oversights can leave vulnerabilities unaddressed. According to People Magazine , maintenance crews may have failed to detect or resolve issues with the sink’s drainage system before the flight. Passenger Misuse Passenger behavior can also play a role. Overfilling sinks, flushing foreign objects, or tampering with lavatory fixtures can strain the system. As noted by OLE , lavatories are designed to handle specific waste types, and misuse can lead to blockages or other issues. Where do cabin floods occur? Cabin flooding incidents can happen on any aircraft, but certain factors may influence where they are more likely to occur. Geographical Context Flights operating in regions with older fleets may face higher flooding risks due to aging systems. For example, the American Airlines incident, reported by Yahoo News , occurred on a route between Hawaii and Alaska. While the aircraft’s age wasn’t specified, older components are generally more prone to failure. For the latest developments in the aviation world, follow Simple Flying! Aircraft Usage and Conditions Heavily utilized aircraft are subjected to more significant wear and tear, increasing the likelihood of system malfunctions. Additionally, extreme weather conditions or rapid temperature changes can stress water systems, potentially leading to leaks. How do airlines and regulators respond to flooding? When a cabin flood occurs, immediate and long-term responses are critical to minimizing its impact. In-Flight Protocols During a flood, the flight crew must act swiftly to contain water, assess the situation, and determine whether a diversion is necessary. In the American Airlines case, People Magazine reported that the crew decided to return to Hawaii after it became clear that the flooding posed a risk to safety and comfort. Post-Incident Investigations Regulatory bodies such as the Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) investigate cabin flooding incidents to identify root causes and prevent recurrence. These investigations may lead to updated maintenance protocols, changes in system designs, or other corrective actions. Compensation and Public Relations Airlines often face financial and reputational challenges following a flooding incident. Passenger compensation, flight delays, and repair costs can add up, while negative publicity can harm the airline’s brand. The workers picketed outside many airports in the country. Can cabin floods be prevented? Regular and thorough inspections, aligned with manufacturer guidelines, are crucial to ensure the optimal functioning of onboard water systems. Maintenance personnel should be adept at identifying early signs of wear or potential malfunctions in components such as pipes, valves, and seals. Implementing predictive maintenance techniques, including the use of sensors and real-time monitoring systems, can facilitate the early detection of anomalies, thereby preventing incidents before they escalate. Aircraft manufacturers are continually advancing lavatory system designs to enhance reliability and reduce failure rates. Innovations such as vacuum flush technology have significantly improved waste management efficiency while minimizing water usage, thus decreasing the risk of overflows. Additionally, Aviation Week notes that the development of touchless components - including faucets, flush mechanisms, and waste flaps - addresses hygiene concerns and reduces wear caused by frequent use. For instance, companies like Adams Rite Aerospace are developing suites of touchless lavatory products to enhance passenger safety and comfort. The airport will re-open on October 21st after an almost six-month closure. Educating passengers on the proper use of lavatory facilities is essential in minimizing misuse and preventing avoidable incidents. Airlines can employ clear signage, in-flight announcements, and instructional videos to guide passengers on appropriate lavatory practices. Emphasizing the importance of not disposing of inappropriate items in toilets and sinks can prevent blockages and potential flooding. Furthermore, raising awareness about the location and operation of lavatory facilities can reduce accidental damage or misuse, contributing to overall system integrity. By adopting a holistic approach that encompasses diligent maintenance, forward-thinking design enhancements, and comprehensive passenger education, the aviation industry can effectively mitigate the risks associated with lavatory-induced cabin flooding, ensuring a safer and more comfortable experience for all onboard. The broader implications for aviation Cabin flooding incidents, while rare, have significant implications for the aviation industry. They highlight vulnerabilities in aircraft systems and the importance of robust maintenance and operational protocols. These events also underscore the need for continuous innovation in system design and better passenger education. The answer is slightly more complicated than you might expect. Such incidents can be unsettling for passengers, disrupting their travel experience and raising concerns about aircraft reliability. For airlines and manufacturers, cabin floods serve as a reminder of the complexities involved in maintaining safety and comfort in the skies. By learning from past incidents and adopting proactive measures, the aviation industry can minimize the risks of cabin flooding and ensure a safer and more reliable experience for all passengers.John Healey said that the Government’s “interest” in Hayat Tahrir al-Sham (HTS), is “that they live up to their promises to protect” rights, when he spoke to reporters after a Cobra meeting on Thursday. HTS is banned in the UK because of its past association with al Qaida, the terrorist organisation once led by Osama bin Laden. But its leader, Abu Mohammed al-Golani, cut ties with al Qaida years ago and has sought to present his group as a more moderate and inclusive organisation, leading some to suggest the group should no longer be proscribed. When asked whether the Government was considering the status of the group, Mr Healey said: “Proscription is not a matter for now. “It doesn’t stop us talking to all the parties, and our interest in HTS is that they live up to their promises to protect the rights of all individuals and all groups, to respect international law and to prevent Syria becoming a base for a fresh terrorist threat.” Mr Healey said that Thursday’s meeting was “about making sure we have, as a Government, a laser focus on the role that we can play with allies to see a stable, peaceful transition. “So that the Syrians get the government they need for the future, and the region can see the stability in the future that it also needs.” Cobra meetings are called when ministers or officials need to respond to urgent matters. Following the toppling of the Bashar Assad regime over the weekend, the UK has paused decisions on asylum applications from Syria. Thousands of Syrians have been granted asylum in the UK but, earlier this week, the Home Office said decisions on applications would be paused while events unfold in Damascus. When asked how long the system would be paused for, and whether the move was fair, Mr Healey said on Thursday: “This is early days. “It’s a measure in response to rapidly changing developments, and the most important thing for us now is that the UK plays and will continue to play a full role with allies to see a stable, peaceful, orderly transition and that requires a political process. “It requires dialogue at the heart of it, and today’s ministerial meeting, the Cobra meeting, was about making sure that we do just that.” Earlier on Thursday, G7 leaders said that they “stand with the people of Syria” and “denounce terrorism and violent extremism in all its forms”. In a statement, Sir Keir Starmer and his counterparts said: “The G7 will work with and fully support a future Syrian government that abides by those standards and results from that process.” It went on: “After decades of atrocities committed by the Assad regime, we stand with the people of Syria. We denounce terrorism and violent extremism in all its forms. “We are hopeful that anyone seeking a role in governing Syria will demonstrate a commitment to the rights of all Syrians, prevent the collapse of state institutions, work on the recovery and rehabilitation of the country, and ensure the conditions for safe and dignified voluntary return to Syria of all those who were forced to flee the country.”

Overall, the A-share market's recent performance and outlook have been buoyed by a mix of positive factors that have propelled it towards new heights, signaling a promising trajectory for investors and market participants in the days and weeks ahead.STORZ & BICKEL Makes History as First Vaporizer Brand to Sponsor NYLON House During Miami Art Week

In addition to their success in the singles categories, Chinese players have also dominated in the doubles events. The pair of Wang Chuqin and Sun Yingsha have established themselves as the world leaders in mixed doubles, showcasing their exceptional teamwork and coordination on the table. Their chemistry and strategic play have helped them secure the number one ranking in this highly competitive category.Amber Heard Speaks Out on Blake Lively’s Complaint Against Justin BaldoniThe North Atlantic Treaty Organization, established in 1949, has been a cornerstone of transatlantic security and collective defense for over seven decades. The alliance, consisting of 30 member countries, is founded on the principle of mutual defense and solidarity, with an attack on one member considered an attack on all. NATO has played a crucial role in preserving peace and stability in Europe and North America, and has adapted to address new security challenges in the 21st century.

After hours of driving, the bus suddenly came to a halt on the side of a deserted road in the outskirts of town. The tour guides nonchalantly informed the passengers that the trip was canceled due to unforeseen circumstances, leaving everyone bewildered and stranded in an unfamiliar place. As panic and frustration set in, Mrs. Zhang and the others demanded explanations, only to be met with flimsy excuses and evasive responses.The days leading up to the team's early return were filled with intense training sessions, tactical meetings, and team bonding exercises. The players pushed themselves to their limits, determined to show the world that they were capable of greatness once again. The coaching staff devised a new strategy and game plan, aiming to restore Real Madrid's winning mentality and dynamism on the pitch.Another factor contributing to the high demand for both new and resale properties in Beijing is the city's strong economic performance. Beijing is a hub of economic activity, with a thriving job market, excellent infrastructure, and a rapidly growing population. This has made the city an attractive destination for both homebuyers and property investors, driving up demand for residential properties across the board.

Furthermore, the choice of words in official communications can have a significant impact on public perception and response to a crisis. In this case, the use of the word "shelter" by the police may have inadvertently misled the public about the gravity of the situation, leading to confusion and anxiety among those following the case. It is essential for authorities to be mindful of the language they use, especially when dealing with sensitive and high-profile incidents like the disappearance of a young woman.Los Angeles Clippers guard Patrick Beverley suffered a setback in his journey back to full health when it was revealed that he has a slight tear in his quadriceps muscle. The injury is expected to sideline him for approximately six weeks, dealing a blow to the Clippers' lineup as they continue their push for the playoffs.In addition, rumors have been circulating that the developers have been working on a major update to the game, promising new features, quests, and characters to further enrich the Palru experience. While details remain scarce, the anticipation surrounding this announcement has reached fever pitch, with fans counting down the days until they can finally get their hands on the latest content.

(The Center Square) – Illinois Gov. J.B. Pritzker is disappointed in an electric vehicle manufacture that’s been approved for state tax credits but is struggling. In July 2023, Pritzker joined other officials and Lion Electric in Joliet for the company's ribbon cutting. The Canadian company produces electric school buses and is in line for Illinois tax credits through the Reimagining Energy and Vehicles, or REV tax credit. Since then, Lion Electric’s stock has dropped and Bloomberg reported the company plans to lay off 400 people, or half its workforce. Pritzker said the company has not received any state tax dollars. “If they reach the goals that they’ve set with us, and there’s an agreement that gets set, hiring a certain number of people, fulfilling on a certain amount of investment, then they receive the benefit of those tax credits,” Pritzker said Wednesday at an unrelated event. “But if they don’t, then they haven’t lived up to their part of the agreement, the state does not owe them anything. But look, I’m very disappointed in their progress.” Illinois Gov. J.B. Pritzker says Lion Electric, which reportedly is laying off half its staff, have not received any state tax dollars. He says if they don't meet a certain agreement, they won't get tax credits. Pritzker laid the blame on President-elect Donald Trump for the sluggish EV market. “There’s an awful lot of pressure that’s been put on electric vehicle companies as a result of Donald Trump’s rhetoric and promises that he’s made to kind of tear down the electric vehicle ... industry development,” Pritzker said. State Rep. Dan Caulkins, R-Decatur, said Pritzker’s vision of using tax funds to prop up the EV industry is wrong and the market should cater to what consumers want. “You can’t force people to buy electric cars,” Caulkins said. “It’s not going to work.” Lion Electric’s stock dropped from $2.47 a share in July 2023 to 34 cents a share this week.In conclusion, Xiaomi's announcement of the YU7 electric vehicle represents a significant milestone in the company's expansion into the electric vehicle market. However, the trademark dispute surrounding the new model underscores the importance of protecting intellectual property rights and the challenges that companies may face in safeguarding their brands in a competitive industry landscape. Xiaomi's response to the trademark issue will be closely watched by industry stakeholders and consumers alike as the company seeks to establish its position in the rapidly growing electric vehicle market.

Furthermore, consumers play a crucial role in holding companies and individuals accountable for their actions. By staying informed and vigilant against misleading advertising, consumers can help safeguard their rights and make informed purchasing decisions.

Rich Rodriguez is returning to West Virginia for a second stint as head coach at his alma mater. Athletic director Wren Baker announced the hiring on Thursday, 17 years after Rodriguez made a hasty exit for what became a disastrous three-year experiment at Michigan. “We are thrilled to welcome Coach Rich Rodriguez and his family back home,” Baker said in a statement. “Coach Rodriguez understands what it takes to win at West Virginia, and I believe he will pour his heart, soul and every ounce of his energy into our program. I am convinced Coach Rodriguez wants what is best for West Virginia, WVU and West Virginia football, and I am excited about the future of our program.” Rodriguez, who is the current coach at Jacksonville State, an architect of the spread offense and a polarizing figure in his home state, replaces Neal Brown, who was fired on Dec. 1 after going 37-35 in six seasons, including 6-6 this year. “I am thrilled to have the opportunity to be the head football coach at West Virginia University,” Rodriguez said. “My family and I are filled with gratitude to lead the Mountaineer football program again and look forward to working with the many supporters, fans, and friends to build the best football program in America! Take Me Home!” Rodriguez, 61, will be tasked with restoring a consistent winning climate at West Virginia, which hasn’t been ranked or had back-to-back winning seasons since 2018. The Mountaineers have yet to qualify for the Big 12 championship game since joining the league in 2012. Its best finish was a tie for second place in 2016. Success was a standard at West Virginia under Rodriguez, who went 60-26 from 2001 to 2007 after replacing Hall of Fame coach Don Nehlen. With star players such as quarterback Pat White and running back Steve Slaton, Rodriguez led the Mountaineers to four Big East titles in five years and one of the greatest victories in school history, an upset win over Georgia in the Sugar Bowl following the 2005 season. But many in the West Virginia fanbase remain jaded over his long-ago exit. Needing a win in their 2007 regular season finale to advance to the BCS national championship game, the Mountaineers lost at home to heavy underdog Pittsburgh, 13-9. “We picked an awful time to have our worst offensive game in years,” Rodriguez said after the game. Despite earning a berth in the Fiesta Bowl against Oklahoma as a consolation prize, Rodriguez was gone two weeks later, taking some of his assistant coaches and recruits with him to Michigan. Rodriguez has insisted the Pitt loss had nothing to do with him leaving. He has said promises made by the school’s administration were not kept and his request for more money for his assistant coaches was rejected. Rodriguez said his relationship with then-athletic director Ed Pastilong had disintegrated by August 2007 to the point that the two men barely spoke. West Virginia went to court in an attempt to recoup Rodriguez’s $4 million buyout. Eventually, Michigan paid $2.5 million and Rodriguez paid $1.5 million to settle the dispute. Things didn’t go well for Rodriguez in Ann Arbor. He went 15-22 and was fired after the 2010 season. His stay at Michigan was marred by embarrassing losses and NCAA violations for exceeding limits on practice and training time at college football’s winningest program. After that he went 43-35 over six years as coach at Arizona. Rodriguez was fired in January 2018 after his former administrative assistant filed a claim with the Arizona attorney general’s office accusing him of sexually harassing her and creating a hostile work environment. The university said it couldn’t substantiate the claims but was concerned about the “direction and climate of the football program.” The lawsuit was later dismissed. Rodriguez spent one season each as offensive coordinator at Mississippi and Louisiana-Monroe and went 27-10 the past three seasons as coach at Jacksonville State, which moved from the Championship Subdivision to the FBS in 2023. Using an up-tempo, spread offense, Rodriguez has a 190-129-2 career record in 27 seasons as a head coach, including seven at Division II Glenville State. Rodriguez will be introduced on Friday at West Virginia's basketball arena, where ESPN's Pat McAfee, a former West Virginia and Indianapolis Colts kicker, will broadcast his show live.The news of Real Madrid's early return to the European competitions sent shockwaves through the football world. Many questioned the wisdom of such a decision, citing concerns about player fatigue, injuries, and lack of preparation time. However, the team remained steadfast in their belief that this was the only way to rekindle their competitive spirit and prove their critics wrong.