ST. THOMAS, Virgin Islands (AP) — Javohn Garcia scored 16 points as McNeese beat Illinois State 76-68 on Friday. Garcia also contributed seven rebounds for the Cowboys (3-2). Brandon Murray shot 4 of 10 from the field and 5 for 7 from the line to add 13 points. Sincere Parker shot 4 for 8 (2 for 5 from 3-point range) and 3 of 4 from the free-throw line to finish with 13 points. Ty Pence led the way for the Redbirds (3-2) with 14 points and six rebounds. Malachi Poindexter added 13 points for Illinois State. Logan Wolf had 11 points. The Associated Press created this story using technology provided by Data Skrive and data from Sportradar .
How The Science Of Child Development Can Help Parents Stress Less This Holiday Season #Science #Child #Development #Help #Parents #Stress #Less #This #Holiday #Season #USA #Russia #Biden #Ukraine #War #Palestine #Gaza #Israel #Did Preity Zinta date Salman Khan? Former breaks silence
Ghost of past administration
James Pearce Jr. burst onto the scene last year for the Tennessee Volunteers, leading the tough SEC in sacks, with 10.0. He also had a 52-yard interception return, 15 tackles for loss (TFL), and a pair of forced fumbles. His stats dipped a bit in his third and final college season in Knoxville in 2024, racking up 7.5 sacks, 13 TFLs, and one forced fumble. Despite the slight drop-off, Pearce continued to impress NFL scouts as a junior with his length, speed, and athleticism. The edge rusher cuts an imposing figure at 6’5′′ and 242 pounds, but, believe it or not, he’s lacking in strength. The biggest drawback to his game is his lack of stoutness on the line, especially when defending the run. The 21-year-old is definitely not a finished product, but he’s got enormous potential considering his frame, athleticism, and speed. He’s a first-round talent, and he could go anywhere from the low teens to the late first round. Let’s take a gander at James Pearce Jr.’s three most likely NFL landing spots. 3) Atlanta Falcons The most obvious landing spot for James Pearce Jr. is the team with the fewest sacks in the NFL: the Atlanta Falcons . They’ve managed just 26 sacks all year, and their 60.2 pass rush grade on PFF is the 3rd-lowest in the league. Their 20.8 pressure rate is also tied for the 8th-lowest in the NFL. But more than that, is that the sum of their pass rush might actually be greater than its parts. They don’t have any players with more than 5.0 sacks this year. Kaden Elliss leads the way with 5.0, but he’s never been known as a pass rusher. Arnold Ebiketie has regressed after a promising sophomore campaign in 2023. Matthew Judon has looked every one of his 32 years of age in his first year in the ATL. They need a shake-up on the outside, and an athletic freak like Pearce Jr. could be exactly what they need. Atlanta is likely to pick in the No. 11 to No. 20 range in the first round, so the Volunteers star should be available if they choose to draft him. 2) Philadelphia Eagles This era of the Philadelphia Eagles has often been characterized by a seething pass rush. They nearly broke an NFL record with 70 sacks in 2022, and since 2015 they’ve got 427 sacks, 2nd-most in the league over that 10-year span. However, they were in the bottom half of the league in 2023, with 43 QB takedowns. Through 15 games in 2024, they’ve got 40 sacks, good for 10th, but their 18.6 pressure rate is 5th-worst in the NFL. Their 104 pressures are also the 6th-fewest across the league, so there are some worrying underlying metrics behind that solid sack total. Josh Sweat is a quality player, but the jury is still out on second-year man Nolan Smith. Even if both of those guys work out, in this day and age, you need three quality pass rushers to get to the QB consistently. The Eagles will be picking somewhere in the 20s (if not later), so James Pearce Jr. should be in their range. When a team has as few holes as Philly, always add to the pass rush. 1) San Francisco 49ers The San Francisco 49ers are a lot like the Eagles in that much of their identity lies in getting to the QB. They’ve got one of the single greatest edge rushers in the game in Nick Bosa. Leonard Floyd is also a reliable sack artist on the edge, though at 32 years old age is going to catch up to him at some point. One would think. But behind those two, there’s no quality on the edge. The 49ers have some decent players, but they lack depth along the defensive line. In a 2025 draft class with at least a half dozen first-round talents on the edge, this could be the time for the 49ers to bolster their pass rush again. San Francisco has been eliminated from playoff contention. However, they’ve won enough games to be in the James Pearce Jr. range in the draft, most likely in the mid-teens. Pearce is still a raw talent, so it would be a perfect fit for him to develop and ply his trade behind a consummate professional like Floyd and a guy like Bosa who has similarly freakish athleticism.Alongside our Game of the Year top 10 list and personal picks from the Push Square editorial team, we are recognising the best PS5 games of 2024 in select categories. Today is the turn of the best PS5 story game of 2024 . Bronze Trophy: Banishers: Ghosts of New Eden The original Life Is Strange developer DON'T NOD is best known for its spectacular narratives all about teenagers, but in Banishers: Ghosts of New Eden, it's grown up a little to create its most mature — and possibly greatest — story to date. You play as the ghost-hunting couple Red and Antea, who travel to New Eden at the height of a haunting in 1695. When his partner is killed by the curse, Red faces a dilemma while trying to rid the town of the ghosts possessing it: does he use their spirits to bring back Antea from the dead or perform the job he's there to do and banish the spirits? You get to dictate that with your actions throughout the story, and it results in one of the best narrative campaigns on PS5. Read our Banishers: Ghosts of New Eden PS5 review through the link. Silver Trophy: Silent Hill 2 A faithful remake of the PS2 original, Bloober Team has brought back the story of James Sunderland and his quest to find his dead wife somewhere in the town of Silent Hill. Back in 2002, the plot was one of the most hard-hitting around, particularly as you approached the conclusion and worked out the real dynamics of James' relationship with his wife. 22 years later, it's still gut-wrenching. Bloober Team hasn't messed with the gripping narrative whatsoever, which means it's one of 2024's best — just as it was all those years ago. The Polish developer has only added to the lore, in actual fact, creating two new endings that tap into fan theories created in the decades since the original's launch. It's a superb way to handle a remake, and from a plot perspective, Silent Hill 2 is still one of the very best in the survival horror genre. Read our Silent Hill 2 PS5 review through the link. Gold Trophy: Metaphor: ReFantazio In a political break from Persona , developer Atlus has crafted another memorable story, universe, and cast of characters in Metaphor: ReFantazio. Following the murder of the king, you'll embark on a campaign to take the throne for yourself, recruiting supporters and fending off evil that might use such power for their personal gain. The main story comfortably competes with previous Atlus efforts, delivering twists, turns, double-crosses, and all the intrigue and suspense you'd expect to maintain your interest through an 80-hour story. Surrounding the narrative is a group of tight-knit friends you recruit and develop friendships with, and levelling up the bond you share opens up new scenarios and heartfelt situations. To see the likes of Maria develop is an utter joy, and helping characters such as Heismay and Eupha leads to some of the best scenes in the game. Making an effort with both the core narrative and the stories off to the side helps create one of the very best storytelling experiences of 2024. Consistently excellent and heartfelt, Metaphor: ReFantazio is an essential playthrough for anyone who considers the story critical to their video game-playing experience. Read our Metaphor: ReFantazio PS5 review through the link. Platinum Trophy: Like a Dragon: Infinite Wealth With two main characters at once, Like a Dragon: Infinite Wealth kind of feels like two games worth of stories in one. As Ichiban Kasuga is searching for his mother in Hawaii, the veteran Kazuma Kiryu has his own personal problems to deal with. The two regularly come together for the same narrative beats, but this 70+ hour journey is so very rich in plot that nothing else released in 2024 could even come close to challenging it. Alongside the sublime main narrative are the wild and wacky side stories you'd expect of a Like a Dragon entry, and they provide some light-hearted breaks from the serious nature of Ichiban's and Kiryu's efforts. This mixture of contrasting tones gives Infinite Wealth its unique charm, forming an overall plot direction that's just as emotional as it is serious and comedic. Nothing else does it quite like Yakuza / Like a Dragon, and that's why it's consistently one of the best. Read our Like a Dragon: Infinite Wealth PS5 review through the link. Do you agree with our picks for the best PS5 story game of 2024 ? Post your thoughts in the comments below and check out more of our Game of the Year coverage through the link.
Uzbekistan'sPresident Shavkat Mirziyoyev reviewed the progress of transportinfrastructure and engineering communications in New Tashkent (acity under construction designed to accommodate 1 millionresidents), reports. According to the Uzbek president's office, the developmentfocuses on building sustainable infrastructure for long-term use,with extensive underground engineering work underway to lay thefoundation for major future projects. The city aims to harmonize infrastructure, daily life, andenvironmental considerations. Plans include an eco-friendlytransport system integrating metro and electric buses, with 14tunnels and underground parking facilities for 100,000 vehicles.Provisions are being made for safe, barrier-free movement forpedestrians and cyclists. At one major intersection, foundation pouring for columns andwaterproofing are already in progress. Construction has alsostarted on one- and two-section underground utility corridors forcentralized heating, water, electricity, and telecommunicationsnetworks. New Tashkent will employ smart technologies aligned with modernurbanization demands. A trigeneration station—the first of its kindin Uzbekistan—will be built, and wastewater will be treated usingadvanced technologies, with the reclaimed water repurposed forirrigation and technical needs. The president was also briefed on projects planned for the firstphase of New Tashkent's development. Local and internationalinvestors presented initiatives for mixed-use complexes, hotels,and restaurants. Eleven multifunctional projects, valued at $490million, have already commenced. These developments will includeresidential, commercial, and social facilities, making the districtlively and appealing. Hotels and restaurants with uniquearchitectural designs are expected to deliver high-class servicesand attract tourism. In 2024, land plots for subsequent phases will be auctioned,offering new investment opportunities and projects. This phasedapproach will support the city's growth, generate new jobs, andstimulate local businesses. Overall, New Tashkent is expected to create approximately200,000 high-paying jobs through innovation and technology. Plansinclude technoparks, IT hubs, and education and medical clusters,positioning the city as a modern and sustainable urban center.Upstart Holdings CTO Paul Gu sells $1.6 million in stock
NEW YORK (AP) — In a string of visits, dinners, calls, monetary pledges and social media overtures, big tech chiefs — including Apple’s Tim Cook, OpenAI’s Sam Altman, Meta’s Mark Zuckerberg and Amazon’s Jeff Bezos — have joined a parade of business and world leaders in trying to improve their standing with President-elect Donald Trump before he takes office in January. “The first term, everybody was fighting me,” Trump said in remarks at Mar-a-Lago . “In this term, everybody wants to be my friend.” Tech companies and leaders have now poured millions into his inauguration fund, a sharp increase — in most cases — from past pledges to incoming presidents. But what does the tech industry expect to gain out of their renewed relationships with Trump? A clue to what the industry is looking for came just days before the election when Microsoft executives — who’ve largely tried to show a neutral or bipartisan stance — joined with a close Trump ally, venture capitalist Marc Andreessen, to publish a blog post outlining their approach to artificial intelligence policy. “Regulation should be implemented only if its benefits outweigh its costs,” said the document signed by Andreessen, his business partner Ben Horowitz, Microsoft CEO Satya Nadella and the company’s president, Brad Smith. They also urged the government to back off on any attempt to strengthen copyright laws that would make it harder for companies to use publicly available data to train their AI systems. And they said, “the government should examine its procurement practices to enable more startups to sell technology to the government.” Trump has pledged to rescind President Joe Biden’s sweeping AI executive order, which sought to protect people’s rights and safety without stifling innovation. He hasn’t specified what he would do in its place, but his campaign said AI development should be “rooted in Free Speech and Human Flourishing.” Trump’s choice to head the Interior Department, North Dakota Gov. Doug Burgum, has spoken openly about the need to boost electricity production to meet increased demand from data centers and artificial intelligence. “The AI battle affects everything from defense to healthcare to education to productivity as a country,′′ Burgum said on Nov. 15, referring to artificial intelligence. “And the AI that’s coming in the next 18 months is going to be revolutionary. So there’s just a sense of urgency and a sense of understanding in the Trump administration′′ to address it. Demand for data centers ballooned in recent years due to the rapid growth of cloud computing and artificial intelligence, and local governments are competing for lucrative deals with big tech companies. But as data centers begin to consume more resources, some residents are pushing back against the world’s most powerful corporations over concerns about the economic, social and environmental health of their communities. “Maybe Big Tech should buy a copy of ‘The Art of The Deal’ to figure out how to best negotiate with this administration,” suggested Paul Swanson, an antitrust attorney for the law firm Holland & Hart. “I won’t be surprised if they find ways to reach some accommodations and we end up seeing more negotiated resolutions and consent decrees.” Although federal regulators began cracking down on Google and Facebook during Trump’s first term as president — and flourished under Biden — most experts expect his second administration to ease up on antitrust enforcement and be more receptive to business mergers. Google may benefit from Trump’s return after he made comments on the campaign trail suggesting a breakup of the company isn’t in the U.S. national interest, after a judge declared its search engine an illegal monopoly . But recent nominations put forward by his transition team have favored those who have been critical of Big Tech companies, suggesting Google won’t be entirely off the hook. Cook’s notoriously rocky relationship with the EU can be traced back to a 2016 ruling from Brussels in a tax case targeting Apple. Cook slammed the bloc’s order for Apple to pay back up to $13.7 billion in Irish back taxes as “total political crap.” Trump, then in his first term as president, piled on, referring to the European Commissioner Margrethe Vestager, who was spearheading a campaign on special tax deals and a crackdown on Big Tech companies, as the “tax lady” who “really hates the U.S.” Brussels was eventually vindicated after the bloc’s top court rejected Apple’s appeal this year, though it didn’t stop Cook from calling Trump to complain, Trump recounted in a podcast in October. Trump hosted Cook for a Friday evening dinner at the president-elect’s Mar-a-Lago resort, according to a person familiar with the matter who was not authorized to comment publicly. Neither Apple nor the Trump transition team has commented on the nature of their discussions. Altman , Amazon and Meta all pledged to donate $1 million each to Trump’s inaugural fund. During his first term, Trump criticized Amazon and railed against the political coverage at The Washington Post, which billionaire Bezos owns. Meanwhile, Bezos had criticized some of Trump’s past rhetoric. In 2019, Amazon also argued in a court case that Trump’s bias against the company harmed its chances of winning a $10 billion Pentagon contract. More recently, Bezos has struck a more conciliatory tone. He recently said at The New York Times’ DealBook Summit in New York that he was “optimistic” about Trump’s second term, while also endorsing president-elect’s plans to cut regulations. The donation from Meta came just weeks after Zuckerberg met with Trump privately at Mar-a-Lago. During the 2024 campaign, Zuckerberg did not endorse a candidate for president, but voiced a more positive stance toward Trump. Earlier this year, he praised Trump’s response to his first assassination attempt. Still, Trump in recent months had continued to attack Zuckerberg publicly. And Altman, who is in a legal dispute with AI rival Elon Musk, has said he is “not that worried” about the Tesla CEO’s influence in the incoming administration. Musk, an early OpenAI investor and board member, sued the artificial intelligence company earlier this year alleging that the maker of ChatGPT betrayed its founding aims of benefiting the public good rather than pursuing profits.Taylor Swift, Travis Kelce wear matching outfits on romantic date nightTrump sides with Musk on support for H-1B visas for foreign tech workers
Giants star WR Malik Nabers (toe) says he's a game-time decisionThe Kingdom of Saudi Arabia’s (KSA) holiest city Makkah witnessed heavy rainfall over the past few days, prompting local authorities to activate emergency protocols to safeguard people. The unexpected rainfall created a captivating scene as Umrah pilgrims continued their prayers. A video shared on social media platforms shows pilgrims braving the rain during their tawaf (circumambulation) ritual around the holy Kaaba. Some pilgrims were seen raising their hands to the sky in devotion and seeking forgiveness amid heavy rainfall. Due to the weather conditions, civil defence teams were dispatched to strategic locations in the pre-action mode of civil defence to handle emergencies. Moderate to heavy rains caused significant flooding in some regions, prompting municipal teams to use machinery and field pumps to drain water and restore normal conditions. Additionally, traffic and safety patrols were increased throughout Makkah city. في لحظات إيمانية.. ضيوف الرحمن يتوسلون بالدعاء لحظة هطول الأمطار. – pic.twitter.com/VOGQeCDZKG لقطات مهيبة.. الكعبة المشرفة تتزيّن اليوم بمياه الأمطار. – pic.twitter.com/q1JpSHMkto «اللهم صَيِّبًا نَافِعًا».. pic.twitter.com/nqB2Abi7Pd
MINNEAPOLIS (AP) — Minnesota Vikings coach Kevin O'Connell's stirring locker room tribute to his team last week at Seattle was respectfully interrupted by seven-year veteran right tackle Brian O'Neill, who flipped the script on the game ball awards by tossing one to the boss in honor of his second 13-win season in three years. The Vikings have obliterated even the most optimistic of external predictions for this transitional season, taking a sparkling 13-2 record into their matchup against the Green Bay Packers that has made O'Connell the current favorite for the NFL Coach of the Year award. “It’s a credit to who he is as a person, as a coach and as a leader,” tight end T.J. Hockenson said. “We’re very fortunate to be able to play under him.” The Vikings can not only win the NFC North for a second time in three seasons, but get the No. 1 seed with a first-round bye and home-field advantage throughout the NFC tournament if they beat both the Packers at home on Sunday and the Detroit Lions on the road next week. Don't expect the Vikings to ponder that possibility, though, as tantalizing as it would be. “It can be a very tired cliché to talk about going 1-0 until you’ve systematically built your entire operation daily of just trying to do that every single day,” O'Connell said after Minnesota's eighth consecutive victory . “These guys, it’s not a cliché at that point. It becomes part of your football foundation and the makeup of your locker room, of your leadership, your coaching staff.” The Packers could be forgiven for being less than impressed by the impact O'Connell has made, for a reason beyond simply him coaching their biggest rival. Green Bay enjoyed even better out-of-the-gate success under coach Matt LaFleur, who was hired in 2019 and won 13 regular-season games in each of his first three years. Though they're in third place at 11-4, two games behind the Lions and the Vikings, the Packers too have secured a place in the playoffs even if they can't win their loaded division. They'll likely be the visiting team as long as they're alive this postseason. "I think that just all of us going against one another, it’s forced you to be at your best every week," LaFleur said. “You can’t afford a slip-up, just to keep up with everybody.” The road team has won each of the past three matchups in this series. The Packers are 0-4 against the teams with the top three records in the NFC: Detroit, Minnesota and Philadelphia. “We’ve got to be able to go win these games against the really good teams in the league and set ourselves up for the situation we’ll be in for the playoffs,” quarterback Jordan Love said. The running men Aaron Jones rushed for 93 yards on 22 carries for Minnesota in a 31-29 victory at Green Bay on Sept. 29. Released by the Packers for salary cap relief in favor of their premier free agency addition, the three-plus-years-younger Josh Jacobs, Jones just hit the 1,000-yard mark last week and can't hide from the significance of facing his former team. "They respect you because they were on your team or they've seen the work that you put in, but you want to gain their respect in another way from playing against them, like, ‘Man, this dude is really as good as I thought he was,’" Jones said. Jacobs, for his part, is fourth in the NFL entering Week 17 with 1,216 rushing yards for the most by a Packers player in a season since Ryan Grant (1,253) in 2009. Minimizing their mistakes The earlier matchup this season featured seven combined turnovers, four by the Packers and three by the Vikings. Both of these teams are among the NFL's best in the turnover department, with Green Bay at a plus-12 margin and Minnesota at a plus-10. The Packers have allowed a total of three sacks and have committed just two turnovers over their past five games. Picking up the Pace The Vikings are eagerly anticipating the return of second-year linebacker Ivan Pace, the sparkplug who has missed four games on injured reserve with a hamstring strain. They’ll be cautious with him and the tricky nature of that injury, but getting Pace back in the middle of the action with fellow linebacker Blake Cashman would be a big boost to the play-calling options for defensive coordinator Brian Flores. “He flies around. When he blitzes, he’s as impactful as anybody, and when you can really get him and Cash out there at the same time, they both can really play to their strengths,” O’Connell said. “They’re both really good blitzers. Cash is phenomenal in coverage and reading the quarterback, and when you can kind of pair those guys together, run and pass, that’s when we’re at our best.” Kicking correction Brayden Narveson missed both of his field-goal attempts for Green Bay, from 37 and 49 yards, in the two-point decision at Lambeau Field in Week 4. The Packers released Narveson a couple of weeks later in favor of 11-year veteran Brandon McManus, who has gone 16 of 17 on field-goal tries including game-winners as time expired against Houston and Jacksonville. AP NFL: https://apnews.com/hub/NFL( MENAFN - GetNews) In the rapidly evolving world of technology, staying ahead of the curve is essential-especially for professionals in the cybersecurity field. Whether you're looking to enhance your skills, open doors to new opportunities, or specialize in a specific area of cybersecurity, InfosecTrain has just launched a series of new, cutting-edge courses designed to equip you with the knowledge and hands-on experience to take your career to the next level. InfosecTrain's latest offerings are tailored to tech-savvy professionals who are eager to tackle the challenges of an ever-changing digital landscape. Let's dive into the exciting new courses that are making waves in the cybersecurity industry: 1. CompTIA DataSys+ (DS0-001) Certification Training Data management and system security are becoming increasingly critical as businesses continue to generate massive amounts of data. If you're looking to specialize in data security, the CompTIA DataSys+ (DS0-001) certification is a must-have. This course is designed for IT professionals who want to gain expertise in the storage, management, and protection of critical data assets. What's in it for you? With the CompTIA DataSys+ certification, you'll be equipped to handle complex data systems, perform risk assessments, and implement robust data protection strategies. The training covers vital aspects of data management, such as data encryption, secure data handling practices, disaster recovery protocols, and how to ensure data availability and integrity. Why should you take this course? The CompTIA DataSys+ course offers practical, hands-on experience to ensure you're not just familiar with concepts, but able to apply them in real-world scenarios. As businesses become more reliant on data, the demand for skilled professionals who can manage and protect this data will only continue to grow. This certification will give you a competitive edge in fields like cloud computing, data protection, and IT infrastructure management. 2. 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The Generative AI Application Builder on AWS Training Course is InfosecTrain's newest offering, aimed at professionals who want to explore the intersection of AI and cloud computing, particularly in the realm of cybersecurity. What's in it for you? This course provides you with the tools and knowledge to build AI-driven applications on the AWS platform. You'll learn how to leverage AWS's AI tools to develop smart applications, including security models, threat detection algorithms, and data protection mechanisms. With a focus on generative AI, you'll also explore how AI can be used to automate and optimize cybersecurity tasks, making organizations more resilient against evolving threats. Why should you take this course? AI and cloud computing are two of the most powerful forces shaping the future of cybersecurity. By mastering Generative AI on AWS, you'll gain the ability to create innovative solutions that enhance security, streamline processes, and reduce human error. This course will equip you with cutting-edge skills that will position you at the forefront of cybersecurity innovation, enabling you to tackle tomorrow's challenges today. Conclusion InfosecTrain's newly launched courses CompTIA DataSys+ (DS0-001) Certification Training, EC-Council E|CSS Certification Training Course, Splunk Practical Approach Training, and Generative AI Application Builder on AWS Training Course are a perfect match for tech enthusiasts who are serious about advancing their careers in cybersecurity. These courses combine expert-led training, practical experience, and cutting-edge technology to ensure you're fully equipped to navigate the complexities of today's digital world. If you're looking to boost your cybersecurity career, these courses provide a comprehensive learning experience that will not only enhance your skillset but also increase your employability in the competitive tech market. Don't miss out on the opportunity to stay ahead of the curve and become a leader in the cybersecurity field. For more information or to enroll in any of these courses, visit InfosecTrain's website and take the next step in your cybersecurity career today! MENAFN26122024003238003268ID1109033582 Legal Disclaimer: MENAFN provides the information “as is” without warranty of any kind. We do not accept any responsibility or liability for the accuracy, content, images, videos, licenses, completeness, legality, or reliability of the information contained in this article. If you have any complaints or copyright issues related to this article, kindly contact the provider above.
Perry-Martel International Named 2024 Construction Agency Of The Year By Prestige Award Canada
More than the storyline and the acting abilities of the star-cast, it is the wonders of modern technology being exhibited on the screen which is drawing people to the theatres I happened to come across an article in a national daily that sought to eulogise 1975 as the most audacious year in the history of Hindi cinema. Despite being a year that celebrated a large number of blockbusters, it says, there were a few films which, fighting against all odds, created remarkable impacts and went on to become cult classics. Approximately half-a-century later, we are at the crossroads of a significant change in Bollywood where ‘metaphorical connotations’ find no place in the matter-of-fact style of presentation of cinematic themes. Going by the plethora of senseless films being exhibited in cinema theatres and the OTT platforms these days, one can only wonder at the ‘toxic’ taste of the audience who seem to be fed a regular dose of such nonsense in the name of entertainment by film-makers. A string of supposed ‘hits’ which are neither in the ‘traditional’ mould nor in the genre of sci-fi and period drama films seek to regale the audience with a mishmash of contents that bring out ‘wows’ from them. More than the storyline and the acting abilities of the star-cast, it is the wonders of modern technology being exhibited on the screen which is drawing people to the theatres – at least for the curiosity factor, if not for anything else. It is these ‘one-time’ viewings which make the ‘new-age’ cinema eventual hits, encouraging producers to make sequels. The popularity and impact of some of these ‘trending’ movies has become a topic of discussion with many dismissing criticisms against them with the simple justification that any negative remarks against such cinematic creations would amount to attacking the artistic freedom of the film-makers. Moreover, as commercial ventures, as long as people watched and enjoyed the films, there is no basis to be critical of the films. Spruced up with enough vulgarity and violence at times, the new genre of films has built up its own fan base. Besides, when the audiences are more inclined towards such contents, what deters the producers and directors from glorifying these ‘attributes’ to churn out potential money-spinners! Hence the contention that modern movies have replaced story and character with spectacle and noise does seem to have a ring of truth about it leading one to believe that with the audience and the industry evolving in response to changes in how people consume media, the concept of films as entertainment is being redefined all over again. However, there is arguably no dearth of connoisseurs of good cinema even today who see no harm in sitting through three hours of such movies to make some sense out of them, only to get disappointed in the end. After having lived through a period which was marked by the production of some of the most widely acclaimed films of all times with narratives that addressed the social and moral issues of the times, besides serving to take satirical looks at the political scenario prevalent, we now take satisfaction applauding the ‘excellences in technology’ which pass of as films. The film fraternity all over the world realise that film-making is a business of ideas. So is it a lack of ideas which is afflicting the world of cinema now! According to a doyen in the film industry, film-makers have failed to ignite the desire, and create the yearning among the cine-going public which once put them on that pedestal of fame as sellers of dreams. When it is claimed that the old must make way for the new, it doesn’t necessarily mean that in keeping with the changing times one has to end up bereft of fresh and innovative ideas. This is also true when it comes to the world of cinema! According to an acting diva of the modern era, what makes a movie truly successful in today’s cinematic landscape is the magic that it’s able to create. Whether it’s through powerful emotions, gripping action or unforgettable music, it is by weaving magic around these aspects of the movie that the film-maker has an instant hit on his hands. While films of yore used to be a blend of all these features which appealed to the public, movies today leave one confused as to their actual ‘composition’. In the past, elevating the entertainment quotient of a scene single-handedly came so very naturally to some film stars that their very presence on the screen spelt a few minutes of thrill and excitement for cine-goers. Is this a reflection of the deteriorating standards of cinema worldwide! The argument that the entertainment industry is a business like any other that’s primary purpose is to make money has brought in a trend where studios are prioritising marketing over quality. Instead of the few hours of respite from the rat-race called life that the dream-like ambiences the yesteryear films afforded, cinemas today unceremoniously propel one into the harsh world of realities. The slew of absurd movies hitting the theatres and OTTs at regular intervals which are undoubtedly a severe test on one’s intelligence quotient completes the list. The concept of entertainment has indeed changed! (Pachu Menon is a senior columnist based in Goa.)NVIDIA (NASDAQ:NVDA) Stock Price Down 0.8% – Time to Sell?
PayPal Holdings, Inc. ( NASDAQ:PYPL – Get Free Report )’s share price dropped 0% during trading on Thursday . The stock traded as low as $87.26 and last traded at $88.24. Approximately 882,702 shares traded hands during trading, a decline of 93% from the average daily volume of 12,916,177 shares. The stock had previously closed at $88.25. Analyst Ratings Changes A number of analysts have weighed in on PYPL shares. Phillip Securities reiterated an “accumulate” rating and issued a $90.00 price target (up from $80.00) on shares of PayPal in a research report on Friday, November 1st. Piper Sandler reiterated a “neutral” rating and set a $88.00 target price on shares of PayPal in a research report on Friday, November 22nd. Wolfe Research upgraded shares of PayPal from a “peer perform” rating to an “outperform” rating and set a $107.00 price target on the stock in a research report on Friday, December 13th. Susquehanna raised their price objective on shares of PayPal from $83.00 to $94.00 and gave the stock a “positive” rating in a report on Wednesday, October 30th. Finally, Deutsche Bank Aktiengesellschaft increased their price target on PayPal from $74.00 to $94.00 and gave the stock a “buy” rating in a research report on Monday, September 23rd. Fifteen investment analysts have rated the stock with a hold rating, twenty-one have given a buy rating and one has assigned a strong buy rating to the company’s stock. According to MarketBeat.com, PayPal presently has a consensus rating of “Moderate Buy” and an average target price of $88.42. Get Our Latest Research Report on PayPal PayPal Stock Down 1.5 % PayPal ( NASDAQ:PYPL – Get Free Report ) last announced its quarterly earnings results on Tuesday, October 29th. The credit services provider reported $1.20 earnings per share (EPS) for the quarter, beating the consensus estimate of $1.07 by $0.13. The company had revenue of $7.85 billion during the quarter, compared to analyst estimates of $7.88 billion. PayPal had a net margin of 14.08% and a return on equity of 23.44%. The firm’s revenue was up 6.0% on a year-over-year basis. During the same quarter in the previous year, the business earned $0.97 EPS. As a group, research analysts anticipate that PayPal Holdings, Inc. will post 4.57 EPS for the current fiscal year. Institutional Investors Weigh In On PayPal A number of hedge funds have recently modified their holdings of the business. Bruce G. Allen Investments LLC increased its stake in PayPal by 7.4% during the 3rd quarter. Bruce G. Allen Investments LLC now owns 1,810 shares of the credit services provider’s stock worth $141,000 after purchasing an additional 124 shares in the last quarter. First United Bank & Trust raised its holdings in shares of PayPal by 6.4% during the third quarter. First United Bank & Trust now owns 2,395 shares of the credit services provider’s stock worth $187,000 after acquiring an additional 145 shares during the period. Ritholtz Wealth Management lifted its position in PayPal by 3.3% in the 3rd quarter. Ritholtz Wealth Management now owns 4,724 shares of the credit services provider’s stock valued at $369,000 after acquiring an additional 152 shares in the last quarter. Laraway Financial Advisors Inc boosted its stake in PayPal by 3.8% in the 3rd quarter. Laraway Financial Advisors Inc now owns 4,228 shares of the credit services provider’s stock worth $330,000 after purchasing an additional 154 shares during the period. Finally, SYSTM Wealth Solutions LLC increased its holdings in PayPal by 50.6% during the 2nd quarter. SYSTM Wealth Solutions LLC now owns 497 shares of the credit services provider’s stock worth $29,000 after purchasing an additional 167 shares in the last quarter. Institutional investors and hedge funds own 68.32% of the company’s stock. PayPal Company Profile ( Get Free Report ) PayPal Holdings, Inc operates a technology platform that enables digital payments on behalf of merchants and consumers worldwide. It operates a two-sided network at scale that connects merchants and consumers that enables its customers to connect, transact, and send and receive payments through online and in person, as well as transfer and withdraw funds using various funding sources, such as bank accounts, PayPal or Venmo account balance, PayPal and Venmo branded credit products comprising its installment products, credit and debit cards, and cryptocurrencies, as well as other stored value products, including gift cards and eligible rewards. Recommended Stories Receive News & Ratings for PayPal Daily - Enter your email address below to receive a concise daily summary of the latest news and analysts' ratings for PayPal and related companies with MarketBeat.com's FREE daily email newsletter .
The husband-wife legal team working on two of today's biggest criminal casesFreeport-McMoRan Unusual Options Activity For December 26
DOHA, Qatar , Dec. 28, 2024 /PRNewswire/ -- On December 25, 2024 , the First JETOUR Fan's Festival and the Launch of T2 i-DM was held in Qatar , themed "Think Future". During the event, JETOUR launched its user brand "Traveler" in the Middle East and its first hybrid model, JETOUR T2 i-DM. The launch event highlights JETOUR's commitment to exploring sustainable travel modes and ambition to become the "The World's Leading Brand in Hybrid Off-road Vehicles" under the "Travel+" strategy. JETOUR T2 i-DM not only inherits the strengths of T2 series, but also achieves high energy efficiency, high performance, high safety, and high intelligence with its advanced hybrid technology, i-DM. With a maximum combined power of 280kW and torque of 610N•m, T2 i-DM boasts a NEDC pure electric range of 139km and an overall range exceeding 1,000km at just 0.8L/100km, addressing range anxiety and promoting green travel. Mr. Dai Lihong, executive vice president of JETOUR Auto, emphasized technology's role in producing world-class products. The launch also introduced "Traveler", enriching user experience through diverse products and superior performance. This year, JETOUR has ranked third in sales across the Qatari auto market. The Fan's Festival invited user representatives from across the Middle East to witness the unveiling of "Traveler", experiencing "Travel+" culture through city tours and co-creation workshops. JETOUR prioritizes users, listening to their needs and co-creating products, brand, and lifestyle. Through "Traveler," JETOUR aims to provide richer travel experiences and benefits globally, leveraging the platform to spread the "Travel+" culture worldwide. Mr. Alex Tan , Vice President of JETOUR International, said, "Serving 'JETOUR users' and being 'a user-oriented JETOUR' are JETOUR's development philosophy. JETOUR will continue to build a travel community centered around users, cars, and lifestyles, sharing the joy of traveling together with users." JETOUR also partnered with Diamond League to promote athletics in Qatar and the Middle East , embodying JETOUR Speed and the brand's image of breakthroughs and innovations. With T2 selling over 150,000 units globally, T2 i-DM will continue its success to meet customers' needs and reshape the hybrid SUV market. The launch of T2 i-DM marks JETOUR's new journey towards "the World's Leading Brand in Hybrid Off-road Vehicles." JETOUR plans to introduce more hybrid and off-road models, providing customers with eco-friendly and diversified travel choices. With its innovative spirit and user-oriented philosophy, JETOUR will lead the global automotive industry towards a more sustainable and smarter future. View original content to download multimedia: https://www.prnewswire.com/news-releases/global-launch-of-jetour-t2-i-dm-reshaping-the-hybrid-suv-market-302339886.html SOURCE JETOUR AUTOGlobal Launch of JETOUR T2 i-DM: Reshaping the Hybrid SUV Market
First Interstate BancSystem, Inc. ( NASDAQ:FIBK – Get Free Report ) shares hit a new 52-week high during mid-day trading on Friday . The stock traded as high as $34.56 and last traded at $34.36, with a volume of 71552 shares traded. The stock had previously closed at $33.83. Wall Street Analysts Forecast Growth Several research analysts have recently commented on FIBK shares. Wells Fargo & Company lowered shares of First Interstate BancSystem from an “equal weight” rating to an “underweight” rating and lowered their price objective for the company from $30.00 to $28.00 in a research note on Tuesday, October 1st. Barclays downgraded shares of First Interstate BancSystem from an “equal weight” rating to an “underweight” rating and dropped their price target for the stock from $32.00 to $30.00 in a research note on Thursday, October 31st. Piper Sandler reduced their price objective on First Interstate BancSystem from $38.00 to $36.00 and set an “overweight” rating on the stock in a research note on Monday, October 28th. StockNews.com cut First Interstate BancSystem from a “hold” rating to a “sell” rating in a research note on Wednesday. Finally, Stephens reaffirmed an “overweight” rating and issued a $36.00 price target on shares of First Interstate BancSystem in a research report on Thursday, October 10th. Three equities research analysts have rated the stock with a sell rating, two have given a hold rating and two have given a buy rating to the company. Based on data from MarketBeat, the stock has a consensus rating of “Hold” and an average target price of $32.50. Check Out Our Latest Analysis on First Interstate BancSystem First Interstate BancSystem Stock Up 1.7 % First Interstate BancSystem ( NASDAQ:FIBK – Get Free Report ) last released its quarterly earnings data on Thursday, October 24th. The financial services provider reported $0.54 EPS for the quarter, missing analysts’ consensus estimates of $0.58 by ($0.04). First Interstate BancSystem had a net margin of 15.94% and a return on equity of 7.48%. During the same period in the previous year, the company posted $0.70 earnings per share. On average, equities research analysts anticipate that First Interstate BancSystem, Inc. will post 2.28 EPS for the current fiscal year. First Interstate BancSystem Announces Dividend The business also recently declared a quarterly dividend, which was paid on Thursday, November 14th. Shareholders of record on Monday, November 4th were paid a $0.47 dividend. The ex-dividend date of this dividend was Monday, November 4th. This represents a $1.88 annualized dividend and a yield of 5.47%. First Interstate BancSystem’s dividend payout ratio is currently 82.46%. Insider Transactions at First Interstate BancSystem In other news, Director Jonathan R. Scott sold 6,500 shares of First Interstate BancSystem stock in a transaction dated Wednesday, November 13th. The stock was sold at an average price of $34.18, for a total transaction of $222,170.00. Following the sale, the director now owns 958,710 shares in the company, valued at approximately $32,768,707.80. The trade was a 0.67 % decrease in their ownership of the stock. The transaction was disclosed in a document filed with the Securities & Exchange Commission, which is accessible through this link . Also, major shareholder Julie A. Scott sold 20,220 shares of the company’s stock in a transaction dated Friday, November 8th. The shares were sold at an average price of $32.78, for a total value of $662,811.60. Following the completion of the sale, the insider now directly owns 635,069 shares of the company’s stock, valued at approximately $20,817,561.82. This trade represents a 3.09 % decrease in their ownership of the stock. The disclosure for this sale can be found here . In the last quarter, insiders sold 48,770 shares of company stock worth $1,630,272. 6.90% of the stock is currently owned by insiders. Hedge Funds Weigh In On First Interstate BancSystem A number of hedge funds have recently modified their holdings of FIBK. Point72 DIFC Ltd acquired a new stake in First Interstate BancSystem during the 3rd quarter worth $34,000. Point72 Asia Singapore Pte. Ltd. acquired a new stake in shares of First Interstate BancSystem during the third quarter worth about $69,000. CWM LLC grew its holdings in shares of First Interstate BancSystem by 16.0% during the second quarter. CWM LLC now owns 3,123 shares of the financial services provider’s stock worth $87,000 after buying an additional 430 shares during the last quarter. Innealta Capital LLC acquired a new position in First Interstate BancSystem in the 2nd quarter valued at about $106,000. Finally, nVerses Capital LLC raised its stake in First Interstate BancSystem by 412.5% during the 2nd quarter. nVerses Capital LLC now owns 4,100 shares of the financial services provider’s stock valued at $114,000 after acquiring an additional 3,300 shares during the last quarter. 88.71% of the stock is currently owned by hedge funds and other institutional investors. About First Interstate BancSystem ( Get Free Report ) First Interstate BancSystem, Inc operates as the bank holding company for First Interstate Bank that provides range of banking products and services in the United States. It offers various traditional depository products, including checking, savings, and time deposits; and repurchase agreements primarily for commercial and municipal depositors. Featured Stories Receive News & Ratings for First Interstate BancSystem Daily - Enter your email address below to receive a concise daily summary of the latest news and analysts' ratings for First Interstate BancSystem and related companies with MarketBeat.com's FREE daily email newsletter .NEW YORK (AP) — Donald Trump was on the verge of backing a 16-week federal abortion ban earlier this year when aides staged an intervention. According to Time magazine's cover story on his selection as its 2024 Person of the Year, Trump's aides first raised concerns in mid-March that the abortion cutoff being pushed by some allies would be stricter than existing law in numerous states. It was seen as a potential political liability amid ongoing fallout over the overturning of Roe v. Wade by a conservative majority on the Supreme Court that includes three justices nominated by Trump in his first term. Trump political director James Blair went to work assembling a slide deck — eventually titled “How a national abortion ban will cost Trump the election" — that argued a 16-week ban would hurt the Republican candidate in the battleground states of Pennsylvania, Michigan and Wisconsin, the magazine reported. “After flipping through Blair’s presentation" on a flight to a rally in Grand Rapids, Michigan, in April, Trump dropped the idea, according to the report. "So we leave it to the states, right?" Trump was quoted as saying. He soon released a video articulating that position. At the time, Trump’s campaign denied that he was considering supporting the 16-week ban, calling it “fake news” and saying Trump planned to “negotiate a deal” on abortion if elected to the White House. Here are other highlights from the story and the president-elect's 65-minute interview with the magazine: Trump reaffirmed his plans to pardon most of those convicted for their actions during the Jan. 6, 2021, riot at the U.S. Capitol. “It’s going to start in the first hour,” he said of the pardons. “Maybe the first nine minutes.” Trump said he would look at individuals on a “case-by-case" basis, but that “a vast majority of them should not be in jail.” More than 1,500 people have been charged with federal crimes stemming from the riot that left more than 100 police officers injured and sent lawmakers running into hiding as they met to certify Democrat Joe Biden’s 2020 victory . More than 1,000 defendants have pleaded guilty or been convicted at trial of charges, including misdemeanor trespassing offenses, assaulting police officers and seditious conspiracy. Trump insisted he has the authority to use the military to assist with his promised mass deportations , even though, as his interviewers noted, the Posse Comitatus Act prohibits the use of the military in domestic law enforcement. “It doesn’t stop the military if it’s an invasion of our country, and I consider it an invasion of our country," he said. “I’ll only do what the law allows, but I will go up to the maximum level of what the law allows. And I think in many cases, the sheriffs and law enforcement is going to need help." Trump did not deny that camps would be needed to hold detained migrants as they are processed for deportation. “Whatever it takes to get them out. I don’t care," he said. “I hope we’re not going to need too many because I want to get them out and I don’t want them sitting in camp for the next 20 years.” Trump told Time he does not plan to restore the policy of separating children from their families to deter border crossings, but he did not rule it out. The practice led to thousands of children being separated from their parents and was condemned around the globe as inhumane. “I don’t believe we’ll have to because we will send the whole family back,” he said. “I would much rather deport them together, yes, than separate.” Trump dismissed the idea that Elon Musk will face conflicts of interest as he takes the helm of the Department of Government Efficiency , an advisory group that Trump has selected him to lead. The panel is supposed to find waste and cut regulations, including many that could affect Musk's wide-ranging interests , which include electric cars, rockets and telecommunications. “I don’t think so," Trump said. “I think that Elon puts the country long before his company. ... He considers this to be his most important project." Trump lowered expectations about his ability to drive down grocery prices. “I’d like to bring them down. It’s hard to bring things down once they’re up. You know, it’s very hard. But I think that they will,” he said. Trump said he is planning “a virtual closure" of the "Department of Education in Washington.” “You’re going to need some people just to make sure they’re teaching English in the schools," he said. “But we want to move education back to the states.” Yet Trump has proposed exerting enormous influence over schools. He has threatened to cut funding for schools with vaccine mandates while forcing them to “teach students to love their country" and promote “the nuclear family,” including “the roles of mothers and fathers” and the “things that make men and women different and unique.” Asked to clarify whether he was committed to preventing the Food and Drug Administration from stripping access to abortion pills , Trump replied, “It’s always been my commitment.” But Trump has offered numerous conflicting stances on the issue, including to Time. Earlier in the interview, he was asked whether he would promise that his FDA would not do anything to limit access to medication abortion or abortion pills. "We’re going to take a look at all of that,” he said, before calling the prospect “very unlikely.” “Look, I’ve stated it very clearly and I just stated it again very clearly. I think it would be highly unlikely. I can’t imagine, but with, you know, we’re looking at everything, but highly unlikely. I guess I could say probably as close to ruling it out as possible, but I don’t want to. I don’t want to do anything now.” Pressed on whether he would abandon Ukraine in its efforts to stave off Russia's invasion , Trump said he would use U.S. support for Kyiv as leverage against Moscow in negotiating an end to the war. “I want to reach an agreement,” he said, “and the only way you’re going to reach an agreement is not to abandon.” Trump would not commit to supporting a two-state solution, with a Palestinian state alongside Israel, as he had previously. “I support whatever solution we can do to get peace," he said. "There are other ideas other than two state, but I support whatever, whatever is necessary to get not just peace, a lasting peace. It can’t go on where every five years you end up in tragedy. There are other alternatives.” Asked whether he trusted Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu , he told Time: “I don’t trust anybody.” Trump would not rule out the possibility of war with Iran during his second term. “Anything can happen. It’s a very volatile situation," he said. Asked if he has spoken to Russian President Vladimir Putin since the Nov. 5 election, Trump continued to play coy: "I can’t tell you. It’s just inappropriate.” Trump insisted that his bid to install Matt Gaetz as attorney general ”wasn’t blocked. I had the votes (in the Senate) if I needed them, but I had to work very hard.” When the scope of resistance to the former Republican congressman from Florida became clear, Trump said, “I talked to him, and I said, ‘You know, Matt, I don’t think this is worth the fight.'" Gaetz pulled out amid scrutiny over sex trafficking allegations, and Trump tapped former Florida Attorney General Pam Bondi for the Cabinet post. Trump, who has named anti-vaccine activist Robert F. Kennedy Jr. to lead the Department of Health and Human Services, did not rule out the possibility of eliminating some childhood vaccinations even though they have been proved safe in extensive studies and real world use in hundreds of millions of people over decades and are considered among the most effective public health measures in modern history. Pressed on whether “getting rid of some vaccinations” — neither Trump nor the interviewers specified which ones — might be part of the plan to improve the health of the country, Trump responded: “It could if I think it’s dangerous, if I think they are not beneficial, but I don’t think it’s going to be very controversial in the end.” “I think there could be, yeah," Trump said of the prospect of others in his family continuing in his footsteps. He pointed to daughter-in-law Lara Trump , who served as co-chair of the Republican National Committee and is now being talked about as a potential replacement for Florida Sen. Marco Rubio, whom Trump has chosen for secretary of state. Trump said the former and soon-to-be first lady Melania Trump will be joining him at the White House during second term and will "be active, when she needs to be.” “Oh yes,” he said. “She’s very beloved by the people, Melania. And they like the fact that she’s not out there in your face all the time for many reasons.” Best trending stories from the week. Success! An email has been sent to with a link to confirm list signup. Error! There was an error processing your request. You may occasionally receive promotions exclusive discounted subscription offers from the Roswell Daily Record. Feel free to cancel any time via the unsubscribe link in the newsletter you received. You can also control your newsletter options via your user dashboard by signing in.
-- Shares Facebook Twitter Reddit Email “Why do you draw?” A seemingly innocuous question that in truth carries immense weight. It’s the kind of question that you can brush off with a casual wave of the hand, or it can leave you speechless, unable to even find the words. Art isn’t numbers on a spreadsheet. It’s life itself. In “Look Back,” the film based on Tatsuki Fujimoto’s one-shot manga, two teenage girls bond over their love of creating manga. Fujino handles the characters and story, while Kyomoto takes care of the background art. They make a powerful team. When Kyomoto asks Fujino why she draws, we don’t get an explanation. We don’t need it. We’ve seen it. Every moment the pair shares with each other is why. Seasons change outside Fujino’s window as she and Kyomoto work on their first manga together. The duo quietly scribbles away, creating in the presence of one another, as pages of manuscript pile up. We see that life and art are intimately linked. That creation is born out of the wonder, the mystery and of course, the tragedy of life. This is not a review of “Look Back.” Enough beautiful words have already been said about the film, and it is most certainly one that any fan of anime, manga, cinema or art in general should see. But it is that simple-but-not question, “Why do you draw?” asked by Kyomoto to Fujino, that echoed in my head, clanging and clattering in the space between my ears in the days and weeks after I saw “Look Back.” I think it struck a chord because it increasingly feels like the creative process, and deeper and more troubling than that, humanity itself, is under attack . Related The 12 biggest moments in animation in 2023 There is a contingent of craven capitalists who have slowly turned the entertainment industry into just another financial market. Moving into senior positions at major studios in film, television and video games, these ghouls seek only to maximize profit. The art at the center of these industries is, to many of these bigwigs, a means to an end. That end being stock prices and shareholder satisfaction. It’s why we got “ Inside Out 2” and “ Moana 2” this year. Unnecessary sequels that a bunch of suits knew would rake in the dough. Although talented people worked on both, when art is kept within the confines of a giant, soulless corporation, art (and the people creating it) is held captive by the profit motive. Money becomes the mantra. When someone’s life’s work, their passion, their expression of creativity, is diminished to merely being seen as content, as numbers on an earnings report, it is an attack on art. This year, “Coyote vs. Acme” was shelved and seems destined to become lost media , buried before even being given a chance for audiences to see it. The hard work of hundreds of people, a mere tax write-off under the mighty pen of Warner Bros. Discovery CEO David Zaslav . One of my favorite shows from last year , “Scavengers Reign,” was unable to avoid the axe. Despite winning an Emmy (for background design) and being nominated for outstanding animated program, the show didn’t bring in the viewer hours so it was unceremoniously thrown on the heap. Critical acclaim or simply letting art exist in the world and be received by the people (with no concern for the size of the audience) aren’t things that Zaslav and his ilk consider. Imagine if “Mad Men” or "The Sopranos" was cut after its first season because target demos, algorithm data and KPIs just didn’t support renewal. In 2024, the only concern is that the numbers look good, so that CEOs can line their pockets with millions in compensation. And if recent reaction to UnitedHealthcare CEO Brian Thompson’s murder is anything to go by, the people are getting a little fed up with the unfettered greed of the C-suite. Art isn’t numbers on a spreadsheet. It’s life itself. We need your help to stay independent Subscribe today to support Salon's progressive journalism “Look Back” implores the viewer to see how art and life are intertwined. Every adventure that Fujino and Kyomoto go on becomes the inspiration for another manga. They visit the ocean, and that leads to the duo writing “The Sea Cities.” Looking for bugs in summer turns into “The Cicada Humans.” A trip to the aquarium yields “The Man Who Ate the Crab.” The pair experiences life, and their art echoes those experiences. Reverberating through the creative process, those echoes twist and distort just enough to give the art they produce a fantastical fiction, but at its core, their art is quite literally their lives. The works of Dickens capture Victorian London so well because he lived it; he worked in the warehouses, and his worldview was shaped by these formative experiences. Nintendo’s Shigeru Miyamoto explored forests and hunted for bugs as a child, and wanted to recreate that feeling in a video game, eventually leading to the creation of “The Legend of Zelda.” Hayao Miyazaki ’s works are tinged with autobiographical moments, such as his mother’s hospitalization with tuberculosis — an element of both “My Neighbor Totoro” and “The Wind Rises” — or his father building rudders for fighter planes during World War II, a piece of his own history we see alluded to in the Oscar-winning “The Boy and The Heron.” And for Miyazaki in particular, art and life are nearly one and the same as we come to learn in this year’s documentary that sneakily landed on Max this summer, “Hayao Miyazaki and The Heron.” The documentary chronicles the entire production timeline for “The Boy and The Heron,” starting with Miyazaki announcing his retirement in 2013 through to the film’s Oscar win this year. The iconic director has been the subject of a few documentaries in the past, but in those, Miyazaki always remained guarded, never really letting the viewer understand the man we have so endlessly mythologized. His politics are evident in the films he has made over the past 40 years, but what motivates this man, now nearly 84 years old, to create the worlds of “Nausicaa,” “Castle in the Sky” or the Great Uncle’s tower in “The Boy and The Heron”? Much like Fujino in “Look Back,” the answer seems to be human connection. Throughout “Hayao Miyazaki and The Heron” there is an urgency to Miyazaki’s work. People close to him are passing away; there is guilt and there is sadness. “Why am I still here? Why am I the one that lived?” he wonders aloud. Miyazaki “reeks of death” like Mahito the titular boy of the film. But he storyboards furiously, creating characters based on the people he has lost. Michiyo Yasuda, the color designer on Miyazaki’s films at Studio Ghibli, passed away in 2016, but she appears in the documentary’s footage like a ghost, a vision of the past that haunts the present day Miyazaki. She was the one who told him to make another film, and he felt a sense of obligation to do it. He creates Kiriko in “The Boy and The Heron” based on Yasuda. But no one looms larger than Isao Takahata, Studio Ghibli co-founder and director, who passed away in 2018. And it's in their relationship where it becomes clear that nearly everything Miyazaki has ever made has been driven by the man he affectionately calls Pak-san. Pak-san, Pak-san, Pak-san. A clap of thunder rumbles in the distance while on a walk. “That’s Pak-san.” When Miyazaki is asked if he ever dreams, he responds “Only about Pak-san.” A missing eraser is Pak-san playing a trick on him. Studio Ghibli producer Toshio Suzuki says that “Miyazaki idolized Takahata, but it was always one-sided.” The Boy and the Heron (Hayao Miyazaki/Studio Ghibli) Miyazaki agonizes over the character of the Great Uncle who has built the fantastical world of the tower in “The Boy and The Heron.” The character is Pak-san. In this one-sided relationship, made even more so by the divide between the living and the dead, Miyazaki is determined to show the world who Takahata was. He wants people to know what this man meant to him. The man who was his idol, his rival, his friend. The documentary cuts to a particularly powerful quote from Takahata back in the ‘80s, talking about Miyazaki, where he says, “I’d like to see him make all kinds of films. There are things he hasn’t shown me. I hope to see them one day.” The interview cuts to a wide shot showing Miyazaki beside him with a beaming smile, “Really?” he asks Takahata gleefully. This is how art comes to be. For Miyazaki. For Fujino in “Look Back.” It is driven by the desire for human connection, by wanting to express one’s self to someone, to honor someone who has passed to ensure that they are remembered. Which is why when AI software is used to generate an image , or write a story, it is so revolting . You can’t tell AI to create the Great Uncle. You can’t tell it to create an old man who kinda looks like a wizard who was the whole world to me and everything I did was for him and all I wanted was for him to see my films and enjoy them and I want people to know that. It can’t convey that level of emotional depth, or any emotional depth. AI is mere facsimile (and poorly done at that), and yet, it has been integrated into nearly every piece of technology creating nothing but slop. Related "It's going to destroy jobs": When an AI image won a photo contest, its human refused the award AI is a threat to art, a threat to culture, a threat to humanity itself. How far are we willing to go to utterly dehumanize ourselves? Late capitalism is already turning us away from one another, with the convenience of technology isolating us, keeping us from making a connection to someone. Companies like Disney are fully on board with AI , where acting in a “responsible way” means, “How much can we get away with and not pay people for?” So don’t be surprised when a round of layoffs is announced, so more money can be funneled up to executives at the top. Companies like X are training their AI by using (read: stealing) art uploaded to the platform by artists. And it would be easy to write a whole thesis on how the demands of AI usage and development is causing emissions at companies like Microsoft to rise at a staggering rate, decimating any plans of reaching previously set carbon-neutrality goals. This AI slop, this soulless mimicry of human life, is accelerating the planet’s demise. AI is anti-human in all facets. How far are we willing to go to utterly dehumanize ourselves? 2024 felt like a year where, more than ever before, art was under attack. From corporate fat cats cutting jobs to AI software to humanities programs getting slashed in higher education, the assault on engaging with our world, and on engaging with art is in full effect. It is deeply distressing. But 2024 also produced a film that tells us why art needs to exist, why it is so special, and what it means to be human. “Look Back” yells from the rooftops that art is tough, it is work, but the reward is it connects us like nothing else can. Look Back (Tatsuki Fujimoto/Shueisha Art is beautiful because of the humanity it contains within it. There is energy in a work of art that cannot be quantified, cannot be calculated, cannot be replicated by a machine. It reflects us, it connects us, it bears all of our tragedy, all of our joy. I’m hardly the best writer out here. There are people who write much more eloquently than I do. I admire these writers greatly. But I just want to connect. I want someone to read my words. Someone. Anyone. Even if it just ends up being my family or friends. I have entire worlds inside my head that I want others to experience the way I see them in my mind’s eye. No AI program can scrape these worlds accurately out of my head. There are so many thoughts and ideas in here that I want to share. I hope that my words make someone feel something. I just have to do the work to get them onto the page. That, to me, is something very worth the effort. Art is what makes us human, so why would we want a robot to do it for us? I just want to connect. To prove that I’m alive. I’m not a machine. Read more about this topic The ethics of eating monsters "The Lord of the Rings: The War of the Rohirrim" is another barrel-scraping twist on Tolkien "Blue Eye Samurai" addresses multiracial shame, "to be ostracized from both sides," in Edo-era Japan "Spider-Man: Across the Spider-Verse" is beyond subtitles — and the white gaze By Michael Lee Michael Lee is a writer who might take anime and video games a little too seriously. For more musings on animation, fandom and game worlds, follow him on X @kousatender . MORE FROM Michael Lee Related Topics ------------------------------------------ Ai Animation Anime Artificial Intelligence Best Of 2024 Commentary Hayao Miyazaki Look Back The Bird And The Heron Related Articles Advertisement:Celebrating the 25th Anniversary and the Expansion of the Ideal Scientology Mission of Bergamo
NASA again pushes back astronaut flights to the moonPatriots' coaches enter bye week confident Drake Maye can be a franchise quarterback FOXBOROUGH, Mass. (AP) — Drake Maye’s arrival in New England coincided with a wholesale reset for the Patriots franchise following the departure of coach Bill Belichick and quarterback Mac Jones this past offseason. Kyle Hightower, The Associated Press Dec 5, 2024 2:46 PM Dec 5, 2024 3:05 PM Share by Email Share on Facebook Share on X Share on LinkedIn Print Share via Text Message New England Patriots quarterback Drake Maye warms up before an NFL football game against the Indianapolis Colts, Sunday, Dec. 1, 2024, in Foxborough, Mass. (AP Photo/Charles Krupa) FOXBOROUGH, Mass. (AP) — Drake Maye’s arrival in New England coincided with a wholesale reset for the Patriots franchise following the departure of coach Bill Belichick and quarterback Mac Jones this past offseason. In his eight starts since assuming the reins from veteran Jacoby Brissett, the rookie quarterback has provided encouraging examples of what the Patriots’ revamped front office saw in selecting him third overall in the draft last April. While the Patriots enter their bye week with a 3-10 record and just 2-6 with Maye as the starter, both the coaching staff and his teammates feel they have a quarterback they can build around going forward. “I’m just trying to take it one day at a time, one game at a time,” Maye said this week. “I’m trying to learn from negative experiences or negative plays, learn from turnovers, learn from sacks that I take and see if I can get the ball out and do something better. That’s probably the biggest thing. "Hopefully, the work that we’re putting in and the product that we’re putting out can lead to some positive plays and some positive wins down the road.” Maye is coming off his best statistical performance of the season, completing a season best 80% of his passes (24 of 30) for a season-high 238 yards and a touchdown in New England’s 25-24 loss to Indianapolis. He also had a 41-yard run, showing off a running ability that has him averaging 9.1 yards per carry – best among quarterbacks who have played at least nine games. Maye did have one interception off a tipped ball, but showed his best command of offensive coordinator Alex Van Pelt’s scheme to date, spreading the ball around to six different players and consistently getting the Patriots into the red zone. The rub is that the Patriots were just 2 of 6 once they got there, including four trips inside the 10-yard line that yielded only one TD. Lackluster play in the red zone has been a hindrance for a unit that ranks 30th in the NFL in scoring touchdowns inside the 20. Maye said it will be one of his main focal points over the final four games. “It’s tough to go out like that,” Maye said. “You can’t win games going four drives in the red zone that end in field goals. We’ve got to focus in on that. I think that’s been an emphasis of improvement for this offense. We know you have to score touchdowns to win in this league.” Though coach Jerod Mayo agrees there is room for improvement for Maye, he also pointed out that the pieces around him need to do a better job supporting him as well. He pointed specifically to the offensive line, singling out rookie left guard Layden Robinson and rookie tackle Caedan Wallace, as well as fellow lineman and 2022 first-round pick Cole Strange, who is working his way back from a knee injury. “You need a guy like Layden Robinson to show what he can do. We need a guy like Cole Strange before the end of the season to see what he can do,” Mayo said. “You can use Caedan in that same bucket. We need to see what the receivers can do and what they’re going to look like going forward, and that’s the hard part for me. You want to win right now, but at the same time, I think it would be a disservice to go to the end of the season and not know exactly what we have.” That’s not lost on Robinson, who wants to play better for his quarterback who he said has grown exponentially as a leader since earning the starting job. “He always has that confidence about him and you know how he takes control of the huddle,” Robinson said. “He gets in there, and he’s like, ‘All right, let’s go to work,’ basically. We rally behind him.” Results aside, Van Pelt said there are no regrets about initially waiting to elevate Maye to the starting job. “Absolutely not. I think we had the plan going into place, and I think that it’s showing now that that was a good decision for us,” Van Pelt said. “Would he be as developed had he started the first game? Maybe. Could’ve gone the other way as well. I stated in the spring, this is a marathon, it’s not a sprint. "This is about a career, franchise quarterback, and we’re trying to develop him in the right way. And I feel like we did it that way.” ___ AP NFL: https://apnews.com/hub/nfl Kyle Hightower, The Associated Press See a typo/mistake? Have a story/tip? This has been shared 0 times 0 Shares Share by Email Share on Facebook Share on X Share on LinkedIn Print Share via Text Message Get your daily Victoria news briefing Email Sign Up More Football (NFL) Giants will try to snap a 7-game losing streak when they host the Saints Dec 5, 2024 3:29 PM Rookie Bucky Irving relishes opportunity to help Buccaneers any way he can against skidding Raiders Dec 5, 2024 3:29 PM The Titans have issues to fix and hope to keep slim playoff hopes alive when they host the Jags Dec 5, 2024 3:20 PM
Healthcare Analytics Market Poised for Tremendous Growth from 2024 to 2032 12-24-2024 05:07 PM CET | Health & Medicine Press release from: Cognate Insights Healthcare Analytics Market Latest Market Overview The global healthcare analytics market is forecasted to reach USD 52.7 billion by 2024, growing at a compound annual growth rate (CAGR) of 23.8% through 2032. The rising demand for data-driven healthcare solutions, advancements in big data technologies, and the integration of artificial intelligence in analytics are key factors propelling market growth. Analytics solutions in healthcare are instrumental in improving operational efficiency, optimizing patient outcomes, and supporting clinical decision-making, contributing to robust market expansion. The Healthcare Analytics Market has experienced steady growth in recent years and is expected to continue expanding at a strong pace from 2024 to 2032. This analysis offers a comprehensive overview, providing valuable insights into key trends and developments within the Healthcare Analytics industry. These findings equip business leaders with the necessary knowledge to devise more effective strategies and enhance profitability. Furthermore, the report serves as a useful resource for new and emerging businesses, helping them make informed decisions as they navigate the market and seek growth opportunities. Major Players of Healthcare Analytics Market are: Optum, Inc. - Headquarters: USA; Revenue (2023): USD 45 billion. McKesson Corporation - Headquarters: USA; Revenue (2023): USD 28.9 billion. Cerner Corporation - Headquarters: USA; Revenue (2023): USD 5.7 billion. SAS Institute Inc. - Headquarters: USA; Revenue (2023): USD 3.1 billion. IBM Watson Health - Headquarters: USA; Revenue (2023): USD 2.8 billion. Get Latest PDF Sample Report @ https://www.cognateinsights.com/request-sample/healthcare-analytics-market-research-report-2024-2032 Our Report covers global as well as regional markets and provides an in-depth analysis of the overall growth prospects of the market. Global market trend analysis including historical data, estimates to 2024, and compound annual growth rate (CAGR) forecast to 2032 is given based on qualitative and quantitative analysis of the market segments involving economic and non-economic factors. Furthermore, it reveals the comprehensive competitive landscape of the global market, the current and future market prospects of the industry, and the growth opportunities and drivers as well as challenges and constraints in emerging and emerging markets. Global Healthcare Analytics Market Landscape and Future Pathways: North America: United States Canada Europe: Germany France U.K. Italy Russia Asia-Pacific: China Japan South Korea India Australia China Taiwan Indonesia Thailand Malaysia Latin America: Mexico Brazil Argentina Korea Colombia Middle East & Africa: Turkey Saudi Arabia UAE Korea Speak to Our Analyst for A Discussion on The Above Findings, And Ask for A Discount on The Report @ https://www.cognateinsights.com/check-discount/healthcare-analytics-market-research-report-2024-2032 Key drivers and challenges influencing the Healthcare Analytics market: Regional Analysis: The report involves examining the Healthcare Analytics market at a regional or national level. Report analyses regional factors such as government incentives, infrastructure development, economic conditions, and consumer behaviour to identify variations and opportunities within different markets. Market Projections: Report covers the gathered data and analysis to make future projections and forecasts for the Healthcare Analytics market. This may include estimating market growth rates, predicting market demand, and identifying emerging trends. Company Analysis: Report covers individual Healthcare Analytics manufacturers, suppliers, and other relevant industry players. This analysis includes studying their financial performance, market positioning, product portfolios, partnerships, and strategies. Consumer Analysis: Report covers data on consumer behaviour, preferences, and attitudes towards Healthcare Analytics This may involve surveys, interviews, and analysis of consumer reviews and feedback from different by Application. Technology Analysis: Report covers specific technologies relevant to Healthcare Analytics. It assesses the current state, advancements, and potential future developments in Healthcare Analytics areas. Reason to Buy this Report: -Analysis of the impact of technological advancements on the market and the emerging trends shaping the industry in the coming years. -Examination of the regulatory and policy changes affecting the market and the implications of these changes for market participants. -Overview of the competitive landscape in the Healthcare Analytics market, including profiles of the key players, their market share, and strategies for growth. -Identification of the major challenges facing the market, such as supply chain disruptions, environmental concerns, and changing consumer preferences, and analysis of how these challenges will affect market growth. -Evaluation of the potential of new products and applications in the market, and analysis of the investment opportunities for market participants. For In-Depth Competitive Analysis - Purchase this Report now at @ https://www.cognateinsights.com/purchase-report/healthcare-analytics-market-research-report-2024-2032 Contact Us: Cognate Insights Web: www.cognateinsights.com Email: info@cognateinsights.com Phone: +91 8424946476 About Us: We are leaders in market analytics, business research, and consulting services for Fortune 500 companies, start-ups, financial & government institutions. Since we understand the criticality of data and insights, we have associated with the top publishers and research firms all specialized in specific domains, ensuring you will receive the most reliable and up to date research data available. To be at our client's disposal whenever they need help on market research and consulting services. We also aim to be their business partners when it comes to making critical business decisions around new market entry, M&A, competitive Intelligence and strategy. This release was published on openPR.'Let's not panic': Canada picks up the pieces after ugly Latvia loss at world juniors
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Elon Musk, the world's richest person and one of Donald Trump's closest allies, met with US lawmakers Thursday on his plans for overseeing radical government spending cuts under the incoming administration. President-elect Trump rewarded the Tesla, X and SpaceX chief for his support during the White House campaign by naming him head of the newly created Department of Government Efficiency, along with another wealthy ally, Vivek Ramaswamy. Although the office, dubbed DOGE, has a purely advisory role, Musk's star power and intense influence in Trump's inner circle bring political clout. As Musk and Ramaswamy strode into the Capitol for meetings with lawmakers, Republican Speaker Mike Johnson touted "a new day in America." "There's an enormous amount of waste, fraud and abuse," he told reporters. "Government is too big, it does too many things, and it does almost nothing well." Musk and Ramaswamy have said they can identify billions of dollars of cuts in spending, sparking questions about whether Republicans will even try to slash politically popular social security programs. Writing in the Wall Street Journal last month, the two businessmen laid out plans for the White House to cut staff, trim government programs and reduce federal regulations, even if it means bypassing Congress, which holds budgetary power. "The entrenched and ever-growing bureaucracy represents an existential threat to our republic, and politicians have abetted it for too long," Musk and Ramaswamy wrote. "We're doing things differently. We are entrepreneurs, not politicians. During Trump's election campaign, Musk vowed to reduce federal spending by $2 trillion. This would represent cutting total US spending by a third, almost certainly meaning devastation of social support programs -- something that has never garnered strong political backing. Musk's emphasis on firing large numbers of government employees, however, echoes Republican talking points about the need to take on an overbearing state and may garner more support. Musk says he is seeking "mass head-count reductions across the federal bureaucracy." Musk suggested banning government employees from working at home as an opening tactic. "Requiring federal employees to come to the office five days a week would result in a wave of voluntary terminations that we welcome." Cuts will also target subsidies to public broadcasters and groups such as Planned Parenthood, which campaigns for abortion access and offers an array of reproductive health services. But DOGE is unlikely, at least initially, to go after welfare programs such as Social Security or health insurance for the poor and seniors, Ramaswamy said in an interview with Axios on Wednesday. Such cuts should be "a policy decision that belongs to the voters" and their representatives in Congress, Ramaswamy said. A reduction in military spending, which climbed to $820 billion in 2023, is also unlikely to be on the table. Musk's new role raises the question of potential conflicts of interest, since he could be issuing policy recommendations that impact directly on his own business empire. Underlining the close connection to DOGE, Musk's favorite cryptocurrency is called Dogecoin. rle/ev/md/sms/mdThe year-end mission of Indian Space Research Organisation (ISRO) scheduled for December 30 is going to be a historic one. As per official sources, ISRO will seek the rare feat of docking or merging or joining together two satellites in Space. The project has been named "Space Docking Experiment" (SpaDeX). Union Minister of State (Independent Charge) for Science and Technology Jitendra Singh informed that whole nation looks forward with bated breath as ISRO is set to achieve a significant milestone in Space technology. The upcoming SpaDeX mission aims to dock two satellites in Space, a challenge only mastered by a few countries, PIB report read. “This ambitious project will take place on December 30, 2024, under the Space Docking Experiment (SpaDeX) and the indigenous technology used for this mission is called the "Bharatiya Docking System. SpaDEX" will mark a milestone, showcasing India's expertise in spacecraft docking technology,” said Singh. The mission will mark India’s entry into the exclusive league of nations capable of mastering space docking, reported PIB. A unique approach, the PSLV rocket, will launch two satellites equipped with the 'Bhartiya Docking System' to demonstrate this complex feat, he added. Mission Details ISRO will launch the Space Docking Experiment (SpaDEX) on December 30, 2024. The mission will use PSLV-C60, lifting off at 21:58 IST from Sriharikota. SpaDEX will deploy two identical satellites, SDX01 and SDX02. Each satellite weighs around 220 kilograms and will orbit 470 km above Earth. Key objectives include Performing precision rendezvous and docking manoeuvres, validating power transfer between docked spacecraft and operating payloads post-undocking, with a two-year lifespan. This mission is essential for future endeavours, including satellite servicing and building India's space station, Bharatiya Antriksh Station. SpaDEX will also use PSLV's fourth stage, POEM-4, for experiments. The stage will carry 24 payloads from academic institutions and startups. These experiments will utilise the microgravity environment in orbit. SpaDEX will demonstrate docking and undocking capabilities between satellites. This includes transferring power and operating scientific payloads, the PIB report added.
NEW YORK (AP) — More shoppers than ever are on track to use ‘buy now, pay later’ plans this holiday season, as the ability to spread out payments looks attractive at a time when Americans still feel the lingering effect of inflation and already have record-high credit card debt. The data firm Adobe Analytics predicts shoppers will spend 11.4% more this holiday season using buy now, pay later than they did a year ago. The company forecasts shoppers will purchase $18.5 billion worth of goods using the third-party services for the period Nov. 1 to Dec. 31, with $993 million worth of purchases on Cyber Monday alone. Buy now, pay later can be particularly appealing to consumers who have low credit scores or no credit history, such as younger shoppers, because most of the companies providing the service run only soft credit checks and don’t report the loans and payment histories to the credit bureaus, unlike credit card companies. This holiday season, buy now, pay later users can also feel more confident if a transaction goes awry. In May, the CFPB said buy now, pay later company must adhere to other regulations that govern traditional credit, such as providing ways to demand refunds and dispute transactions. To use a buy now, pay later plan, consumers typically sign up with bank account information or a debit or credit card, and agree to pay for purchases in monthly installments, typically over eight weeks or more. The loans are marketed as requiring no or low interest, or only conditional fees, such as for late payment. Klarna, Afterpay and Affirm are three of the biggest buy now, pay later companies. But consumer advocates warn that shoppers who sign up for the payment plans using a credit card can be hit with more interest and fees. That's because individuals open themselves up to interest on the credit card payment, if it's carried month to month, on top of any late fees, interest, or penalties from the buy now, pay later loan itself. Experts advise against using a credit card to pay for these plans for this reason. Consumer watchdogs also say the plans lead consumers to overextend themselves because, for example, not paying full price up front leaves, in the shopper’s mind at least, more money for smaller purchases . They also caution consumers to keep careful track of using multiple buy now, pay later services, as the automatic payments can add up, and there is no central reporting, such as with a credit card statement. “Buy now, pay later can be an innovative tool for purchases you’re going to make anyway,” said Mark Elliott, chief customer officer at financial services company LendingClub. “The challenge is that it does fuel overspending.” For merchants, that’s part of the appeal. Retailers have found that customers are more likely to have bigger cart sizes or to convert from browsing to checking out when buy now, pay later is offered. One report from the Federal Reserve Bank of New York cited research that found customers spend 20% more when buy now, pay later is available. “The reality is that the increased cost-of-living and inflation have put more people in a situation where they’re already relying on revolving credit,” Elliott said. “The psychographics of ‘buy now, pay later’ may be different — people don’t think of it as debt — but it is.” If a consumer misses a payment, they can face fees, interest, or the possibility of being locked out of using the services in the future. Emily Childers, consumer financial expert for personal-finance technology company Credit Karma, said that internal data shows member credit card balances are up more than 50% for Gen Z and millennial members since March 2022, when the Fed started raising interest rates. “Young people are entering this holiday season already in the red,” she said. “And, based on what we’re seeing in the data, they’re continuing to bury their heads in the sand and spend.” The Associated Press receives support from Charles Schwab Foundation for educational and explanatory reporting to improve financial literacy. The independent foundation is separate from Charles Schwab and Co. Inc. The AP is solely responsible for its journalism.
( ) is a convenience store giant that has been a remarkable Canadian success story. Over the past several decades, Alimentation Couche-Tard has transformed from a single store in Quebec to a retail powerhouse with more than 14,000 locations across multiple continents. While several brick-and-mortar retailers have struggled to build consistent shareholder wealth in recent years, ATD stock has more than tripled investor returns since December 2014. If we adjust for dividend reinvestments, cumulative returns are closer to 250%. Canada, which continues to deliver impressive returns to shareholders via a combination of strategic acquisitions, operational efficiency, and an ability to adapt to changing consumer habits. As investors search for resilient stocks in an uncertain market, let’s examine whether ATD deserves a spot in your portfolio. Alimentation Couche-Tard is a retail heavyweight that has demonstrated resilience despite facing macro headwinds amid sluggish consumer spending. In the fiscal second quarter (Q2) of 2025 (ended in October), ATD reported net earnings of $709 million or $0.75 per share. It saw a decline in same-store merchandise sales across regions, including Canada, the U.S., and Europe. Alternatively, ATD continues to execute its growth strategy aggressively, pursuing the acquisition of Seven & I while announcing a $1.6 billion deal to acquire GetGo’s network of 270 stores. It is evident that ATD remains focused on future growth as it opened 14 new stores in Q2 and is on track to add more than 100 new locations in North America in fiscal 2025. To offset challenging economic conditions, ATD has implemented several customer-focused initiatives. For example, its new meal deal program in the U.S. generates strong results, allowing the company to sell more than 300,000 meals weekly while its private label products are experiencing high single-digit growth. Notably, Alimentation Couche-Tard’s private label products are experiencing high single-digit growth while its loyalty program is gaining traction. Its U.S. Inner Circle membership reached 8.3 million customers, an increase of 12% year over year. Additionally, its fuel business maintained healthy margins due to promotional activities and customer discounts. From an operational perspective, ATD successfully navigated hurricane disruptions south of the border while progressing in integrating its European acquisitions, including assets. Further, ATD’s electric vehicle charging network expanded to 2,900 charge points while related transactions grew by 65% year over year. With $2.2 billion in cash and $2.7 billion in available credit, ATD is well capitalized as it ended Q2 with a leverage ratio of 2.07 times. Alimentation Couche-Tard pays shareholders an annual dividend of $0.78 per share, up from just $0.02 per share in 2006. Its strong financials and widening profit margins have allowed ATD to raise dividends by more than 20% annually for almost two decades. The company’s board of directors recently raised the quarterly dividend by 11.4% year over year to $0.195 per share while allocating more than $500 million towards share buybacks. Analysts tracking ATD stock expect adjusted earnings per share to expand from $2.81 in fiscal 2024 to $3.33 in fiscal 2026. So, priced at 24 times , ATD stock is reasonably priced given its growth estimates. Analysts remain bullish and expect the to gain over 12% in 2025, given consensus price target estimates.
LANDOVER, Md. (AP) — Allowing two kickoff return touchdowns and missing an extra point all in the final few minutes added up to the Washington Commanders losing a third consecutive game in excruciating fashion. The underlying reason for this slide continuing was a problem long before that. An offense led by dynamic rookie quarterback Jayden Daniels that was among the NFL's best for a long stretch of the season put up just nine points and 169 yards for the first three-plus quarters against Dallas before falling behind 20-9 and teeing off on the Cowboys' conservative defense. “We just couldn’t really get it going,” said receiver Terry McLaurin , whose lengthy touchdown with 21 seconds left masked that he had just three catches for 16 yards through three quarters. “We’ve got to find a way to start faster and sustain drives, and that’s everybody: the whole coaching staff and the offensive players just going out there and figuring out ways that we can stay on the field.” This is not a new problem for Washington, which had a season-low 242 yards in a Nov. 10 home loss to Pittsburgh and 264 yards four days later in a defeat at Philadelphia. Since returning from a rib injury that knocked him out of a game last month, Daniels has completed just under 61% of his passes, after 75.6% over his first seven professional starts. Daniels and coach Dan Quinn have insisted this isn't about injury. The coaching staff blamed a lack of adequate practice time, but a full week of it before facing the Cowboys did not solve the problem. It is now fair to wonder if opponents have seen enough film of offensive coordinator Kliff Kingsbury's system to figure it out. “I think teams and coordinators are going to see what other teams have success against us and try to figure out how they could incorporate that into their scheme," Daniels said after going 12 of 22 for 80 yards passing through three quarters in the Dallas game. "We’ve been in third and longer a lot these past couple games, so that’s kind of where you get into the exotic pressures and stuff like that. We’ve just got to be better on first and second downs and stay ahead of the chains.” Daniels has a point there, and it predates this losing streak. The Commanders have converted just 36% of third-down opportunities (27 for 75) over their past seven games after 52% (31 for 60) in their first five. That challenge doesn't get any easier with Tennessee coming to town Sunday. The Titans, despite being 3-8, have the second-best third-down defense in the league at 31.6%. The defense kept the Commanders in the game against Dallas, allowing just 10 points until the fourth quarter and 20 total before kickoff return touchdowns piled on to the other side of the scoreboard. Even Cooper Rush's 22-yard touchdown pass to Luke Schoonmaker with five minutes left came after a turnover that gave the Cowboys the ball at the Washington 44. The defense spending more than 35 minutes on the field certainly contributed to fatigue as play wore on. The running game that contributed to a 7-2 start has taken a hit, in part because of injuries to top back Brian Robinson Jr. The Commanders got 145 yards on the ground because Daniels had 74 on seven carries, but running backs combined for just 57. Daniels could not say how much the rushing attack stalling has contributed to the offense going stagnant. “You’ve got to be able to run the ball, keep the defense honest,” he said. "We got to execute the plays that are called in, and we didn’t do a good job of doing that.” Linebacker Frankie Luvu keeps making the case to be first-year general manager Adam Peters' best free agent signing. He and fellow offseason addition Bobby Wagner tied for a team-high eight tackles, and Luvu also knocked down three passes against Dallas. Kicker Austin Seibert going wide left on the point-after attempt that would have tied the score with 21 seconds left was his third miss of the game. He also was short on a 51-yard field goal attempt and wide left on an earlier extra point. Seibert, signed a week into the season after Cade York struggled in the opener, made 25 of 27 field goal tries and was 22 of 22 on extra points before injuring his right hip and missing the previous two games. He brushed off his health and the low snap from Tyler Ott while taking responsibility for not connecting. “I made the decision to play, and here we are,” Seibert said. “I just wasn’t striking it well. But it means a lot to me to be here with these guys, so I just want to put my best foot moving forward.” Robinson's sprained ankle and fellow running back Austin Ekeler's concussion from a late kickoff return that led to him being hospitalized for further evaluation are two major immediate concerns. Quinn said Monday that Ekeler and starting right tackle Andrew Wylie are in concussion protocol. It's unclear if Robinson will be available against Tennessee, which could mean Chris Rodriguez Jr. getting elevated from the practice squad to split carries with Jeremy McNichols. The Commanders still have not gotten cornerback Marshon Lattimore into a game since acquiring him at the trade deadline from New Orleans. Lattimore is trying to return from a hamstring injury, and the secondary could use him against Calvin Ridley, who's coming off a 93-yard performance at Houston. 17 — Handoffs to a running back against Dallas, a significant decrease from much of the season before this losing streak. Don't overlook the Titans with the late bye week coming immediately afterward. The Commanders opened as more than a touchdown favorite, but after the results over the weekend, BetMGM Sportsbook had it as 5 1/2 points Monday. AP NFL: https://apnews.com/hub/nflMicrosoft CMO Numoto sells $874,634 in stock
Jadon Hardiman, 21, was found guilty in Gibson County of charges including second-degree murder, attempted murder, aggravated assault and weapons offenses, district attorney Frederick Agee said in a statement. He faces up to 76 years in prison at sentencing in April. Hardiman, of Jackson, attended a basketball game between Humboldt and North Side high schools on Nov. 30, 2021. Then 18, Hardiman entered the Humboldt gymnasium's crowded concession area and pulled a semi-automatic .40 caliber handgun, prosecutors said. He fired three shots at Justin Pankey, a 21-year-old former Humboldt basketball player. Pankey was hit one time and died within seconds, Agee said. A second bullet hit Xavier Clifton, a former North Side student and basketball player, who was standing in the concession line. Clifton was shot in the neck and paralyzed. He died in March 2022. A third shot struck another man in the back of the head. He survived. “Many people were placed in fear of imminent bodily injury by Hardiman’s shooting, as shown by video footage of their fleeing into the gym, into bathrooms, and other areas of the school,” Agee said. Hardiman ran away and drove to Jackson, disposing of the murder weapon along the way, the district attorney said. The U.S. Marshals Service contacted his family, and he was arrested the next day. Agee said the shooting "frightened every adult, student, and child present, who were only there to support their team and enjoy a good game.” Hardiman's lawyer did not immediately return a call seeking comment.Syracuse vs. Washington State FREE LIVE STREAM (12/27/24): Watch Holiday Bowl online | Time, TV, channel
King Machine Expands Its Beverage Filling Solutions With Cutting-Edge Monoblock Technology For Diverse Beverage Applications
2024 turned out to be a historic year for the crypto market, with Bitcoin climbed above the long awaited $100K target and setting the stage for even more developments. One such innovation is Lightchain AI (LCAI) is quickly gaining attention as a groundbreaking project poised to revolutionize the crypto landscape. With its presale price set at just $0.003, LCAI is different from the usual cryptocurrencies. This isn’t just about secure transactions; LCAI aims to change how AI works on the blockchain, improving the system’s efficiency, scalability, and security. Early investors are already buzzing about its potential, with many speculating that Lightchain AI could follow a similar trajectory, moving towards a $1 milestone and beyond. Lightchain AI (LCAI) Surges Ahead in Crypto Space Lightchain AI is stirring excitement in the money market, quickly turning into an important project for blockchain fans. Its early sale price of $0.003 has caught a lot of attention, as many buyers view this like a chance to join in on what could be a trailblazing token. Unlike much other tokens, LCAI's worth comes from its smart mix of clever thinking and blockchain tech As crypto fans are pulled to this plan, LCAI’s quick rise and hopeful path have caught the eye of folks looking for the next big deal in the field. This isn’t͏ just some other meme coin it’s a plan that says it will give real-world use and lasting worth, making it different from things like Dogecoin or Shiba Inu. Its aim on AI and blockchain tech puts it in good place for coming growth. Breaking Barriers with AI Integration Lightchain AI is turns to be special because it combines AI and blockchain in a way that’s never been done before. Using its Proof of Intelligence mechanism, LCAI isn’t just about secure transactions—it’s about using AI to make the whole blockchain experience smarter. This unique approach makes it stand out from other projects that don’t have these cool features! With LCAI , AI isn’t just sitting on the sidelines—it plays an active role in making the blockchain more secure, scalable, and efficient. The AI Virtual Machine (AIVM) is another awesome feature that makes the platform even stronger, offering cool tools for developers and businesses to build on. This smart integration is what makes LCAI not just promising, but super exciting for the future! Differentiating Lightchain AI from Meme Coins Unlike meme coins such as Dogecoin and Shiba Inu, Lightchain AI offers real utility and utility-driven value. While meme coins depend heavily on community-driven hype, LCAI is underpinned by a robust technological foundation that appeals to investors looking for real-world applications. It combines the best of both worlds—AI and blockchain—ensuring that its growth is rooted in practicality and innovation. Investors are increasingly recognizing the difference between speculative assets and projects with long-term potential. LCAI’s focus on advanced technology and real-world use cases offers much more than the entertainment factor that meme coins provide. As more people understand the value of these foundational elements, LCAI is poised to attract a diverse and dedicated group of supporters, distinguishing itself from its meme coin counterparts. LCAI's Roadmap to $1 What Lies Ahead Lightchain AI (LCAI) is all set for impressive growth, with a clear roadmap that could see it hit the $1 milestone in the near future. Currently priced at just $0.003 during its presale, the project has already raised over $1.27 million, showing that investors are excited and confident about its potential. This strong backing makes it clear that LCAI is a project worth keeping an eye on! The Testnet Rollout in January 2025 is an exciting milestone for Lightchain AI. Developers and node operators will be able to test the platform and make sure everything runs smoothly. This is a key step before the Mainnet Launch in March 2025, which will bring features like staking, decentralized AI apps, and token rewards. It’s an important phase to make sure everything works perfectly as Lightchain AI moves forward! These developments position LCAI for substantial appreciation, with some experts predicting a 20x increase in value.As Lightchain AI advances through these phases, its innovative features and strategic milestones are expected to drive its value toward the $1 target. Lightchain AI Top Token in Crypto Space Lightchain AI is quickly becoming a favorite in the crypto world! By blending blockchain and AI, it's catching the eye of investors and experts alike. With its presale priced at just $0.003, it's a fantastic opportunity for early investors to hop on board before the price goes up! As Lightchain AI keeps growing, it’s becoming more and more exciting for investors. People are really starting to believe it could surpass other popular tokens in value and use. With a clear plan in place and real-world applications coming soon, Lightchain AI is definitely one to watch in the crypto world! This structure follows your requirements and naturally includes the presale information in the last paragraph, while positioning Lightchain AI as the top token throughout. https://lightchain.ai https://lightchain.ai/lightchain-whitepaper.pdf https://x.com/LightchainAI https://t.me/LightchainProtocol Join our WhatsApp Channel to get the latest news, exclusives and videos on WhatsApp _____________ Disclaimer: Analytics Insight does not provide financial advice or guidance. Also note that the cryptocurrencies mentioned/listed on the website could potentially be scams, i.e. designed to induce you to invest financial resources that may be lost forever and not be recoverable once investments are made. You are responsible for conducting your own research (DYOR) before making any investments. Read more here.OnePlus Watch 3 India Launch: The smartwatch is equipped with advanced health-tracking, LTE connectivity, and a rotating crown. It is designed to rival premium offerings from brands like Apple and Samsung. OnePlus Watch 3 India Launch: The Chinese electronics brand is gearing up to unveil the OnePlus Watch 3 smartwatch on January 7, 2024, alongside the OnePlus 13 and OnePlus 13R smartphones reportedly. While the company has yet to reveal detailed specifications, the smartwatch is expected to deliver significant upgrades over the current OnePlus Watch 2. A report by GSM Arena highlights that the OnePlus Watch 3 will feature a rotating crown, a hallmark of premium smartwatches known for its tactile and user-friendly interface. This addition is anticipated to improve navigation, offering users a more intuitive and responsive experience. The smartwatch may be offered in two colour options. OnePlus Watch 3 Specifications (Expected) In addition to the rotating crown, the OnePlus Watch 3 is expected to feature a heart rate sensor and ECG functionality, although the latter will only be available in select regions. Internally, the OnePlus Watch 3 is expected to run on the Snapdragon W5 Gen 1 SoC, delivering strong performance and energy efficiency. It will likely include 2GB of RAM and 32GB of storage, facilitating smooth app operation, notifications, and fitness tracking. The device is expected to run on Watch OS 5 and RTOS, ensuring a seamless and functional user experience. The smartwatch reportedly houses a battery capacity exceeding 500 mAh, promising substantial longevity for everyday use. Certain versions are anticipated to support LTE connectivity, enabling users to make calls, send messages, and stream music without needing a paired smartphone. Interestingly, a OnePlus Watch 3 model that received TENAA certification in June featured a 500 mAh battery and LTE support, though its design differed from the leaked render. Another variant, labelled OPWWE251 and recently certified by the FCC, is rumoured to include a larger 648 mAh battery, suggesting the possibility of multiple configurations. Health tracking remains a key focus for modern smartwatches, and the OnePlus Watch 3 is expected to deliver in this area. Alongside its heart rate sensor, the ECG functionality will allow users to monitor their heart health closely. However, regulatory requirements may limit the ECG feature to specific regions. The OnePlus Watch 3 represents a significant step forward in the company's smartwatch lineup. With features such as advanced health tracking, LTE connectivity, and a rotating crown, it aims to compete with premium devices from brands like Apple and Samsung. While the OnePlus Watch 2 catered to budget-conscious buyers, the Watch 3 appears to target the high-end market, boasting upgraded specifications and features. Stay informed on all the latest news , real-time breaking news updates, and follow all the important headlines in india news and world News on Zee News.NEW YORK (AP) — More shoppers than ever are on track to use ‘buy now, pay later’ plans this holiday season, as the ability to spread out payments looks attractive at a time when Americans still feel the lingering effect of inflation and already have record-high credit card debt. The data firm Adobe Analytics predicts shoppers will spend 11.4% more this holiday season using buy now, pay later than they did a year ago. The company forecasts shoppers will purchase $18.5 billion worth of goods using the third-party services for the period Nov. 1 to Dec. 31, with $993 million worth of purchases on Cyber Monday alone. Buy now, pay later can be particularly appealing to consumers who have low credit scores or no credit history, such as younger shoppers, because most of the companies providing the service run only soft credit checks and don’t report the loans and payment histories to the credit bureaus, unlike credit card companies. This holiday season, buy now, pay later users can also feel more confident if a transaction goes awry. In May, the CFPB said buy now, pay later company must adhere to other regulations that govern traditional credit, such as providing ways to demand refunds and dispute transactions. To use a buy now, pay later plan, consumers typically sign up with bank account information or a debit or credit card, and agree to pay for purchases in monthly installments, typically over eight weeks or more. The loans are marketed as requiring no or low interest, or only conditional fees, such as for late payment. Klarna, Afterpay and Affirm are three of the biggest buy now, pay later companies. But consumer advocates warn that shoppers who sign up for the payment plans using a credit card can be hit with more interest and fees. That's because individuals open themselves up to interest on the credit card payment, if it's carried month to month, on top of any late fees, interest, or penalties from the buy now, pay later loan itself. Experts advise against using a credit card to pay for these plans for this reason. Consumer watchdogs also say the plans lead consumers to overextend themselves because, for example, not paying full price up front leaves, in the shopper’s mind at least, more money for smaller purchases . They also caution consumers to keep careful track of using multiple buy now, pay later services, as the automatic payments can add up, and there is no central reporting, such as with a credit card statement. “Buy now, pay later can be an innovative tool for purchases you’re going to make anyway,” said Mark Elliott, chief customer officer at financial services company LendingClub. “The challenge is that it does fuel overspending.” For merchants, that’s part of the appeal. Retailers have found that customers are more likely to have bigger cart sizes or to convert from browsing to checking out when buy now, pay later is offered. One report from the Federal Reserve Bank of New York cited research that found customers spend 20% more when buy now, pay later is available. “The reality is that the increased cost-of-living and inflation have put more people in a situation where they’re already relying on revolving credit,” Elliott said. “The psychographics of ‘buy now, pay later’ may be different — people don’t think of it as debt — but it is.” If a consumer misses a payment, they can face fees, interest, or the possibility of being locked out of using the services in the future. Emily Childers, consumer financial expert for personal-finance technology company Credit Karma, said that internal data shows member credit card balances are up more than 50% for Gen Z and millennial members since March 2022, when the Fed started raising interest rates. “Young people are entering this holiday season already in the red,” she said. “And, based on what we’re seeing in the data, they’re continuing to bury their heads in the sand and spend.” The Associated Press receives support from Charles Schwab Foundation for educational and explanatory reporting to improve financial literacy. The independent foundation is separate from Charles Schwab and Co. Inc. The AP is solely responsible for its journalism.
MINNEAPOLIS — President Biden signed the Stop Campus Hazing Act into law earlier this week — a piece of legislation that will combat a serious and sometimes deadly issue on college campuses. The bipartisan bill was first introduced by U.S. Sens. Amy Klobuchar of Minnesota and Bill Cassidy of Louisiana in September with the aim of forcing colleges and universities to disclose how many hazing incidents happen on their campus each year. The bill will also increase transparency by providing better information about hazing incidents at student organizations. "When parents send their kids away to college, they expect they will get a good education and make new friends. They don't expect them to be harassed and hazed," said Klobuchar. "Unfortunately, hazing is a dangerous—and at times deadly—reality that students are confronted with. After years of effort from parents, students, advocates and lawmakers, our bipartisan legislation to improve hazing prevention efforts on college campuses has now been signed into law." In 2021, Minnesota student Danny Santulli became a victim of hazing after deciding to join the fraternity Phi Gamma Delta. According to a lawsuit filed after the incident, Santulli was forced to drink an entire bottle of vodka which resulted in a coma. Santulli woke up from his coma, but as a result of the hazing he is unable to walk, talk or see. Santulli's parents, Mary Pat and Tom Santulli, have been advocates of better hazing legislation since. "If my wife or I had known of the many sanctions that were against the fraternity that Danny was pledging, we would have never allowed him to pledge that fraternity. Parents and incoming students have the right to know the background of any organization they are going to join," said Tom and Mary Pat Santulli. Note: The video above first aired in Dec. 26. Chloe is a digital producer at CBS Minnesota in Minneapolis and has worked in numerous positions at the station, including Assignment Editor, Digital Line Producer and Web Producer. She started her career at CBS Minnesota in 2015.Unimech Aerospace IPO: Price Band, Financials, Key Dates, GMP And More — All You Need To Know
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Players Era Festival organizers betting big NIL is future of college tourneysLucas Nathan Bonder Publishes His New Scientific Theory: The Single Body Theory 12-27-2024 10:18 PM CET | Associations & Organizations Press release from: Getnews / PR Agency: Pulse Media PR The new scientific theory challenges perceptions of separation, presenting a unified view of all existence through a single physical body Lucas Nathan Bonder, a student and teacher of spirituality [ https://www.instagram.com/bonderlucas23 ] and higher consciousness, has introduced his thought-provoking scientific theory, the Single Body Theory. This concept explores the interconnectedness of all objects and beings in the universe, proposing that the apparent separations perceived in the physical world are illusions created by the ego mind. Image: https://lh7-rt.googleusercontent.com/docsz/AD_4nXdeqPHjR9q5D8aPTKZdsN09xsX6opL40fVXIDTB3s9TZhHfmxFJHHU5pvS_8NoTgWkeUVPOUlUYpFdeRivELonsWRjsuXFJlNjn8rqHpMTSNgHc0fukx3sRbzXjw4FdYryMiSLNDQ?key=sTVbW6tVl5Uj1siceaL6kwjQ The Single Body Theory suggests that everything in the universe-living and non-living-is unified by a single physical body. Bonder argues that the sense of individuality and separation, often experienced by humans, is a product of a limited level of consciousness. Through transcending the ego mind, he claims, individuals can perceive their oneness with the universe, experiencing a deeper connection to the vast, interconnected reality that binds all existence. At its core, the Single Body Theory emphasizes the idea that humans are not merely in the universe but are integral parts of it. Bonder explains that what we perceive as independent entities-trees, cars, stars, and even human bodies-are fragments of a singular material field. This universal body encompasses all things, with no true separation between subjects and objects. According to Bonder, recognizing this oneness can lead to profound personal transformations. By accessing higher levels of consciousness, individuals can shift their perspective from a fragmented sense of self to a holistic understanding of their place in the universe. He believes this realization can bring about greater happiness, peace, love, and wisdom, fostering a deeper connection to spirituality. Bonder draws on his studies of the Torah, non-duality, and the teachings of various spiritual leaders to support his work. As a writer, researcher, and teacher, he is committed to guiding others in raising their consciousness, moving beyond the ego, and unlocking the potential of their higher selves. In line with his teachings, Bonder has authored "Love for Wisdom," a book aimed at helping individuals elevate their consciousness, available on Amazon [ https://www.amazon.com/dp/B0CKMC2PZX?ref=cm_sw_r_ffobk_mwn_dp_ECJAE82KDTEDS01TX0PG_2&ref_=cm_sw_r_ffobk_mwn_dp_ECJAE82KDTEDS01TX0PG_2&social_share=cm_sw_r_ffobk_mwn_dp_ECJAE82KDTEDS01TX0PG_2&language=en_US&bestFormat=true ]. Lucas Nathan Bonder invites readers and seekers to explore the Single Body Theory and consider its implications for science, spirituality, and personal growth. His mission is to inspire a shift in understanding, helping individuals embrace their role as integral parts of the universe. Interested readers can access a detailed document explaining the Single Body Theory here [ https://docs.google.com/document/d/1i3JQgzE-1h8BHemfRFsDfAIBm1FBoc3Eahe3cX8Za5s/edit?tab=t.0 ], and further explore his teachings through courses offered on his spiritual enlightenment platform at http://www.enlightenment.education . For more information or to connect with Lucas Nathan Bonder, please contact Lucas Nathan Bonder at +13058133322 or visit his social media link [ https://www.instagram.com/bonderlucas23 ]. Media Contact Contact Person: Lucas Nathan Bonder Email: Send Email [ http://www.universalpressrelease.com/?pr=lucas-nathan-bonder-publishes-his-new-scientific-theory-the-single-body-theory ] City: Los Angeles State: California Country: United States Website: https://www.instagram.com/bonderlucas23 This release was published on openPR.Death in Paradise Christmas Special 2024: why did Ralf Little leave - who plays the new detective
Renerve joins ASX todayNeel Kamal writes about sustainable agriculture, environment, climate change for The Times of India. His incisive and comprehensive reporting about over a year-long farmers' struggle against farm laws at the borders of the national capital won laurels. He is an alumunus of Chandigarh College of Engineering and Technology. Read More How to make Masala Chicken Curry at home 10 beautiful animals that are pink in colour 10 easy-to-care-for beautiful freshwater fish for home aquariums 9 vegetarian dishes shine in the ‘100 Best Dishes in the World’ list 10 rare animals found only in Asia In pics: Sai Pallavi's vacation to Australia 8 books that will help develop discipline and good habits in 2025 Sanskrit names for baby boy that sound modern 18 stews and soups shine among the '100 Best Dishes in the World' 9 foods that provide over 30 grams of protein when cooked
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Prime Minister (PM) Narendra Modi, during his two-day visit to Kuwait, underscored the growing importance of trade and commerce in strengthening the bilateral ties between India and Kuwait, news agency ANI reported. PM Modi visited Kuwait at the invitation of Sheikh Meshal Al-Ahmad Al-Jaber Al-Sabah, the Emir of the State. This marks the first visit by an Indian PM to Kuwait in 43 years. In an interview with Kuwait News Agency (KUNA) on Saturday, he highlighted the significant rise in two-way trade, emphasising their energy partnership and the increasing presence of 'Made in India' products across various sectors in the Middle Eastern country, ANI reported. "Trade and commerce have been important pillars of our bilateral relationship. Our bilateral trade has been on an upswing. Our energy partnership adds a unique value to our bilateral trade," PM Modi said. "We are happy to see 'Made in India' products, particularly in automobiles, electrical and mechanical machinery, and telecom segments making new inroads in . India today is manufacturing world-class products at the most affordable cost. Diversification to non-oil trade is key to achieving greater bilateral trade," he added. According to ANI, he also spoke about deepening the potential for collaboration in diverse fields such as health, technology, digital innovation, and textiles. further said that India and Kuwait share a deep and historic bond, and the relationship between both countries has always been one of warmth and friendship. He noted that the crosscurrents of history and exchanges through ideas and commerce have brought the people of both nations closer together, KUNA reported. "We have traded with each other since time immemorial. The discoveries in Failaka Island speak of our shared past. The Indian Rupee was a legal tender in Kuwait for over a century until 1961. This shows how closely our economies were integrated," PM Modi told KUNA. He added, "Overall, the bilateral ties are progressing well and, if I could say, scaling new heights. I eagerly look forward to my talks with His Highness the Emir to elevate our ties in various areas including defence, trade, investment, and energy. The strong roots of our historical ties must be matched by the fruits of our 21st-century partnership – dynamic, robust, and multifaceted. There is a lot we have achieved together, but the possibilities are limitless for our partnership. I am sure this visit will give new wings to it." Earlier on Sunday, PM Modi received a rousing ceremonial welcome and a Guard of Honour in Kuwait during his state visit to the country. He was accorded a ceremonial Guard of Honour at the Bayan Palace, Kuwait, with the Emir of Kuwait, Sheikh Meshal Al-Ahmad Al-Jaber Al-Sabah, also present during the ceremony. Details of the meeting were shared by the Spokesperson of the Ministry of External Affairs on X. "A special welcome on a historic visit! PM @narendramodi arrives at the Bayan Palace in Kuwait to a ceremonial welcome and Guard of Honour. Warmly received by HH Sheikh Ahmed Abdullah Al-Ahmed Al-Sabah, PM of Kuwait. Extensive talks with HH the Amir, Crown Prince, and PM of Kuwait lie ahead," wrote. On Saturday, PM Modi visited the Gulf Spic Labour Camp in Kuwait, where he interacted with Indian workers and highlighted their contribution to the country's development. PM Modi spoke about the aspirations of Indian workers, linking them to his vision for a "Viksit Bharat 2047."
PHILADELPHIA and NEW YORK , Dec. 27, 2024 /PRNewswire/ -- FS KKR Capital Corp. (NYSE: FSK) today announced that it has completed its previously announced offering of an additional $100 million in aggregate principal amount of its 6.125% notes due 2030 (the "Notes"). The Notes will be a further issuance of, and form a single series with, the $600 million aggregate principal amount of 6.125% Notes due 2030 that FSK issued on November 20, 2024 , increasing the outstanding aggregate principal amount of the series to $700 million . BofA Securities, Inc., BMO Capital Markets Corp., J.P. Morgan Securities LLC, KKR Capital Markets LLC, SMBC Nikko Securities America, Inc., and Truist Securities, Inc. are acting as joint book-running managers for this offering. FSK intends to use the net proceeds of this offering for general corporate purposes, including potentially repaying outstanding indebtedness under credit facilities and certain notes. This announcement does not constitute an offer to sell or a solicitation of an offer to buy any of the Notes, nor shall there be any offer, solicitation or sale in any state or jurisdiction in which such an offer, solicitation or sale would be unlawful. About FS KKR Capital Corp. FSK is a leading publicly traded business development company (BDC) focused on providing customized credit solutions to private middle market U.S. companies. FSK seeks to invest primarily in the senior secured debt and, to a lesser extent, the subordinated debt of private middle market companies. FSK is advised by FS/KKR Advisor, LLC. About FS/KKR Advisor, LLC FS/KKR Advisor, LLC (FS/KKR) is a partnership between FS Investments and KKR Credit that serves as the investment adviser to FSK and other business development companies. FS Investments is a global alternative asset manager dedicated to delivering superior performance and innovative investment and capital solutions. The firm manages over $83 billion in assets for a wide range of clients, including institutional investors, financial professionals and individual investors. FS Investments provides access to a broad suite of alternative asset classes and strategies through its best-in-class investment teams and partners. With its diversified platform and flexible capital solutions, the firm is a valued partner to general partners, asset owners and portfolio companies. FS Investments is grounded in its high-performance culture and guided by its commitment to building value for its clients, investing in its colleagues and giving back to its communities. The firm has more than 500 employees across offices in the U.S., Europe and Asia and is headquartered in Philadelphia . KKR is a leading global investment firm that offers alternative asset management as well as capital markets and insurance solutions. KKR aims to generate attractive investment returns by following a patient and disciplined investment approach, employing world-class people, and supporting growth in its portfolio companies and communities. KKR sponsors investment funds that invest in private equity, credit and real assets and has strategic partners that manage hedge funds. KKR's insurance subsidiaries offer retirement, life and reinsurance products under the management of Global Atlantic Financial Group. References to KKR's investments may include the activities of its sponsored funds and insurance subsidiaries. Forward-Looking Statements and Important Disclosure Notice This announcement may contain certain forward-looking statements, including statements with regard to future events or future performance or operations of FSK. Words such as "believes," "expects," "projects," and "future" or similar expressions are intended to identify forward-looking statements. These forward-looking statements are subject to the inherent uncertainties in predicting future results and conditions. Certain factors could cause actual results to differ materially from those projected in these forward-looking statements. Factors that could cause actual results to differ materially include changes in the economy, risks associated with possible disruption in FSK's operations or the economy generally due to terrorism, geo-political risks, natural disasters or pandemics such as COVID-19, future changes in laws or regulations and conditions in FSK's operating area and the price at which shares of FSK's common stock trade on the New York Stock Exchange. Some of these factors are enumerated in the filings FSK makes with the SEC. FSK undertakes no obligation to update or revise any forward-looking statements, whether as a result of new information, future events or otherwise. Contact Information: Investor Relations Contact Anna Kleinhenn Anna.Kleinhenn@fsinvestments.com FS Investments Media Team Melanie Hemmert Melanie.Hemmert@fsinvestments.com View original content to download multimedia: https://www.prnewswire.com/news-releases/fsk-completes-public-offering-of-100-million-6-125-unsecured-notes-due-2030--302339667.html SOURCE FS InvestmentsArticle content If you can’t beat ’em, join ’em, it seems. Hyundai in the U.S. will be offering free adapters to its electric vehicle (EV) customers that will allow them to fast-charge their vehicles at Tesla Superchargers. So far, we haven’t heard if Hyundai will be doing the same in Canada, but we’ll let you know when we find out more. Current Hyundai models use a CCS (Combined Charging System) fast-charging port, which isn’t compatible with a Tesla fast-charger. Tesla refers to its port as the North American Charging Standard, or NACS, although it’s just a name and isn’t actually a regulated standard. Hyundai will be equipping all of its all-new or refreshed EVs exclusively with an NACS port, which began in the third quarter of 2024 in the U.S., and will happen in the first half of 2025 in Canada. While several other automakers have announced their intention to equip their vehicles with NACS ports, Hyundai said its 2025 Ioniq 5 is “the first non-Tesla vehicle on sale to feature a factory-installed native NACS port.” With its NACS-equipped vehicles, Hyundai will offer an adapter that allows them to be charged on a CCS charger. The NACS/CCS ports are only for fast-charging and the vehicles also have a port for regular charging, which works for either Level 1 (regular household current) or Level 2 (240-volt), the latter including home chargers and many public chargers. The free vehicle adapter will be available in the U.S. starting in the first quarter of 2025. It will be offered to current owners or to new ones, providing they purchase or lease their vehicles on or before January 31, 2025. The adapter, which fits into the CCS port and accepts the NACS charging plug, will be available for the 2024 and earlier Kona Electric , Ioniq Hatchback , Ioniq 5 and Ioniq 6 ; and the 2025 Ioniq 6 , Ioniq 5 N , and Kona Electric . Hyundai said the adapter – or the factory port, when it arrives – will give owners double the number of fast-charging stations currently available to them with the ability to access the Tesla network. The upcoming Ioniq 9 will have the NACS port. Hyundai will release full information in 2025 for details on how owners can apply for their free adapters. The adapters will also be offered for sale by Hyundai dealers. Genesis will also offer a similar plan but will give more details early next year. Hyundai is one of eight automakers, along with BMW , General Motors, Honda , Kia , Mercedes-Benz , Stellantis, and Toyota (that last one a later entry), involved in Ionna, a joint venture that intends to install more than 30,000 chargers across the U.S. and then expand into Canada . So far, the Ionna website lists 10 stations, with four in “Public Beta” stage and the rest “Opening Soon.” Ionna said the network will be accessible to vehicles with CCS or NACS ports, and will be near to or include facilities such as restaurants, toilets, and stores. Sign up for our newsletter Blind-Spot Monitor and follow our social channels on X , Tiktok and LinkedIn to stay up to date on the latest automotive news, reviews, car culture, and vehicle shopping advice.
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SOLON, Ohio , Dec. 3, 2024 /PRNewswire/ -- Eagle Electronics, a new leader in high-tech electronics and cellular module production, is proud to announce it has raised $14mm, led by the O.H.I.O. Fund with participation from Asymmetric Capital Partners, to establish cutting-edge manufacturing technology and operations in Solon, Ohio , in partnership with CO-AX Technology. This strategic initiative marks a significant milestone in the company's commitment to onshoring the advanced high-tech supply chain to the United States . "This is a major moment for Eagle and our vision of onshoring and securing America's critical technologies," said TJ Dembinski, Co-Founder & CEO of Eagle Electronics. "Our goal is to set a new standard for electronics manufacturing in the U.S., combining the most advanced automated manufacturing and testing technology with rigorous hardware and software cyber-security testing throughout the supply chain. This offering will allow Eagle to onshore critical knowledge and essential technologies, all while continuing to cement the United States' leadership in the chip industry." Eagle Electronics' new facility aims to be the most advanced electronics manufacturing plant in the United States , leveraging cutting-edge surface-mount technology manufacturing equipment. The Solon , Ohio manufacturing operation is also expected to create numerous jobs in Ohio , further establishing the state as a key player in the U.S. semiconductor industry. Ohio's Lieutenant Governor, Jon Husted , added, "Eagle is further proof that Ohio is becoming one of the world's leading semiconductor manufacturing hubs. With the addition of Eagle, we're bringing more jobs in this sector to Northeast Ohio , reinforcing our commitment to the 'Made in Ohio ' strategy." Eagle is already seeing demand for American-made cellular modules and has signed up several customers. Boston -based Cherish has contracted with Eagle to advance its goal of sourcing components for its health and safety monitoring products manufactured in the communities where its customers live. Sumit Nagpal , Cherish's Founder & CEO, said, "Our customers trust us to invite our products into their homes to monitor the health and safety of loved ones. Our work with Eagle helps deepen this trust with, in this case, cellular modules manufactured in the U.S.A. This is good for us, our customers, and the communities we serve." "Our partnership with Cherish Health demonstrates the market's confidence in our ability to deliver high-quality, state-of-the-art cellular modules," added Mark Kvamme , Eagle's Co-Founder & Chairman. "We look forward to expanding our customer base as we ramp production and continue to innovate in the cellular module and electronics manufacturing spaces." To achieve this goal, Eagle's first onshoring partner is Quectel, a global IoT solutions provider. Norbert Muhrer , Quectel's President and CSO, commented on the Eagle relationship, "Some customers need access to cellular modules that are made in the United States . We are excited to partner with Eagle Electronics to be able to offer customers the option to procure U.S.-made and cyber-secure modules and we're thrilled to be part of bringing production jobs back to the U.S." Eagle is also partnering with Finite State, a leader in software supply chain security, to produce, compile, and audit all firmware for Eagle devices domestically. Former Head of the CIA Directorate of Science & Technology and Eagle Board Member, Dawn Meyerriecks , says of this arrangement, "Eagle's domestic production, coupled with the company's partnership with Finite State, will go a long way in assuaging security concerns that are inherent with any connected technology. We believe our approach will be the most secure offering in the market." About Eagle Electronics Eagle Electronics is an electronics manufacturing company dedicated to onshoring the manufacturing of critical technologies in the United States . By focusing on state-of-the-art manufacturing and strategic partnerships, Eagle Electronics is committed to building a geopolitically resilient and secure technology supply chain. View original content to download multimedia: https://www.prnewswire.com/news-releases/eagle-electronics-announces-formation-of-state-of-the-art-electronics-manufacturing-facility-14mm-of-funding-and-customer-commitments-302321711.html SOURCE Eagle Electronics
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NoneTOKYO , Dec. 15, 2024 /PRNewswire/ -- Representatives from China and Japan shared their insights on promoting artificial intelligence (AI) governance and data sharing at a sub-forum of the 20th Beijing-Tokyo Forum in Tokyo recently. The sub-forum contributed eastern wisdom to AI governance and digital social development, demonstrating the significance of international cooperation for the development of the digital economy, according to Gao Shaolin, advisor at Peking University's Legal Artificial Intelligence Research Center. AI governance framework The participants agreed that the next 10 years will be a critical period for the development of AI. Gao Wen, academician of the Chinese Academy of Engineering (CAE), said since China's State Council issued a guideline on developing AI in 2017, the nation has made significant progress in AI research and development and industrial layout, especially in computing power and 5G network construction. By the end of 2023, China had over half of the world's 1.57 billion 5G users, according to the World Internet Development Report 2024. It ranked second globally in AI and computing power scale, which has laid a solid foundation for the rapid development of AI. Tatsuo Yamazaki , project professor at the International University of Health and Welfare, said it was very meaningful for Japan and China to discuss strengthening AI governance rules. Fumihiko Kamio , research director of the Nomura Research Institute, echoed his view. He emphasized that the core goal of AI technology is to improve productivity and eliminate obstacles to social development, and called on Chinese and Japanese experts to work together to build an AI governance framework to cope with the global challenges. Deepening international cooperation China put forth the Global AI Governance Initiative in October last year. In July, the UN General Assembly adopted a China -sponsored resolution on enhancing international cooperation on AI capacity-building. The participants spoke highly of the Global Cross-Border Data Flow Cooperation Initiative recently proposed by China . They agreed that AI governance requires global collaboration, especially in the formulation of international standards and the construction of ethical frameworks, where China and Japan can play an active role. Ding Wenhua, academician of the CAE, said China and Japan have both similarities and differences in technology development and governance priorities, so deepening cooperation will bring unique value to global AI governance. " China and Japan should deepen AI technology cooperation between enterprises, work together in AI security research, talent exchange, and jointly explore more possibilities for the application of technology," Wang Zhongyuan , president of the Beijing Academy of Artificial Intelligence, said. Balancing development & risks AI governance refers to the guardrails established to ensure AI systems and tools remain safe and ethical and respect human rights. Xu Zhilong , editor-in-chief of Science and Technology Daily, stressed that AI, as a revolutionary technology, has far-reaching impacts on all areas of society and economy. However, its potential risks such as data leakage and the spread of false information should not be ignored. "Technological progress and security ethics should be developed in a balanced way to ensure that AI technology always serves the progress of human civilization," Xu said. AI governance should not only heed the current technological ethics issues, but also prevent possible long-term risks, such as AI going out of human control, according to Toshio Iwamoto , senior corporate advisor of NTT DATA. He said AI R&D and application should abide by the principles of fairness, transparency, safety and availability. Yuan Yue, chairman of Beijing Dataway Horizon, shared his view from the perspective of regulatory models. "Policy choices should be based on the current status and goals of national technological development," Yuan said, adding that China prefers to provide a more friendly development environment for enterprises while ensuring an effective response to risks. View original content to download multimedia: https://www.prnewswire.com/news-releases/science-and-technology-daily-promoting-ai-governance-jointly-302332050.html SOURCE Science and Technology Daily
As the high school football season winds down, only the three traditional Thanksgiving morning games remain, along with Bonner & Prendergast, Delaware County’s last team standing in the state playoffs competing in the PIAA Class 4A semifinals Friday. It’s been a memorable season from a local standpoint, one that has seen numerous records shattered, both at the team level and across the county. Before the helmets and shoulder pads are put away until next summer, it’s time for a Daily Times tradition: By The Numbers, our annual look at the season in statistical form. 1 >> Number of wins each for Chichester and Sun Valley. The bright side? Before the turkey’s out of the oven Thursday, one of these teams will have doubled its win total. 3 >> Philadelphia Catholic League teams that have advanced to the PIAA semifinals: Bonner & Prendergast (4A), Roman Catholic (5A) and St. Joseph’s Prep (6A). While the Catholic League has had multiple state champions in the same season – most recently in 2019 with Prep and Archbishop Wood – it has never crowned three champions in one year. 3 >> Single-season team records for Garnet Valley senior Caden Koehler: receptions (52), receiving yards (1,038) and touchdown catches (12). 5 >> Delco teams that achieved double-digit win seasons: Springfield (12), Bonner & Prendergast (10), Chester (10), Haverford High (10) and Strath Haven (10). 5 >> Wins for Upper Darby under second-year coach Darrell Dulany, who has made significant progress with the program. Taking over a team in disarray and coming off a two-win season in his first year, Dulany has the Royals positioned to finish with a winning record ... if they can pull off an upset against Haverford Thursday. 6-5 >> Height of Haverford School senior lineman Josh Williams, a 305-pound Stanford commit who helped the Fords to a 7-3 record and second-place finish in the Inter-Ac League. Williams was the anchor of an offensive line unit that averaged roughly 150 yards on the ground per game. 17 >> Career interceptions for Chester’s Daron Harris. The previous school record of 15, held by Jimmy King, had stood for 40 years. 27 >> Passing touchdowns this season for Chester’s Jalen Harris, who has 86 career touchdown passes, the most by any quarterback in Delco history. His 5,882 career passing yards rank fifth all-time, and he needs 1,707 yards next year to break the county record held by Desman Johnson Jr. of Penn Wood since 2019. 28 >> Touchdowns for Daron Harris this fall, which is another Chester record that belongs to him. Daron had 14 receiving TDs and seven on special teams returns (four kicks and three punts). Daron also had two interception returns for scores. He is, undoubtedly, one of the best all-around players in Delco over the last decade. 30.5 >> Average margin of victory by West Chester Rustin over its two Delco opponents, Chester and Springfield, in the District 1 Class 5A tournament. Can’t say enough about the Golden Knights. They are the real deal, absolutely manhandling two of the top programs in the area, and two wins away from a state title. 66 >> Receptions for Episcopal Academy junior Jackson Orcutt. That is good for seventh all-time in the county. He set single-season program records in catches, receiving yards (1,132) and TD receptions (15). 87 >> Sum total of career passing (43) and rushing (44) touchdowns for Sam Dixon, the awesome playmaker for Delaware County Christian School’s eight-man squad. Dixon spearheaded the Knights’ run to the Keystone State Football League championship game, ending his career with 2,843 passing yards and 2,572 rushing yards. With Dixon showing the way, DC posted an 8-1 record, its best season since 2015, back when the Knights competed in the Bicentennial Athletic Conference as one of the smallest PIAA programs in the area. 92 >> Yards Haverford High junior Liam Taylor needs Thursday to become Delco’s greatest single-season rushing champion. Taylor, who has 2,741 yards, is closing in on the record of 2,832 yards set by Interboro alum and current Yale star Abu Kamara during his Daily Times Player of the Year campaign in 2022. 875 >> Rushing yards for Interboro sophomore Momodu Rogers, who has had an outstanding season despite the Bucs’ 2-8 record, and he accomplished this while missing two games due to injury. Rogers averaged over 100 yards against five tough opponents – Strath Haven, West Chester Rustiin, Plymouth Whitemarsh, Wissahickon and Upper Moreland – all of which finished with at least five wins. He has a chance to hit the 1,000-yard mark Thursday at Ridley. 2,019 >> Passing yards for Garnet Valley quarterback Luke O’Donoghue, setting a single-season team record. Known for their run-heavy offense, the Jaguars’ success through the air this season was fun to watch and O’Donoghue was the driving force behind it. 2,396 >> Passing yards for Bonner & Prendergast sophomore Noel Campbell, who broke the 23-year-old single-season school record during the Friars’ 35-7 victory over Pope John Paul II in the PIAA Class 4A quarterfinals. Campbell’s total ranks seventh in Delco history, 501 yards from breaking the record. 2,785 >> Rushing yards in the career of Strath Haven’s Shane Green, the fourth-highest mark in program history. This year Green amassed 1,447 yards, sixth most by a Haven player, en route to helping the Panthers claim a share of the Central League title. Contact Matt Smith at msmith@delcotimes.com
A high-powered delegation led by Pakistan's special envoy on Afghanistan Muhammad Sadiq on Tuesday held crucial talks in Kabul in what is seen as renewed push by both sides to overcome the obstacles in their bilateral relationship. This was the first high-level visit by the Pakistani side to Kabul in 15 months and came at a time when Pakistan is battling with terrorism particularly in Khyber-Pakhtunkhwa province. Ambassador Muhammad Sadiq soon after landing in Kabul on Monday evening met Afghan Taliban interior Minister Sirajuddin Haqqani. Sources said the two sides held extended discussions over dinner. The agenda includes the security situation, presence of terrorist hideouts and other matters. The Pakistani delegation on Tuesday also held talks with Afghan Acting Foreign Minister Amir Khan Muttaqi. A statement issued by the Afghan side said the delegation led by Muhammad Sadiq discussed bilateral issues and cooperation in various sectors and improving relations between the two countries. Both sides emphasized the need for "joint efforts" to stabilize peace and security and foster economic growth. During the meeting between Afghan interior minister and Pakistani special envoy, both sides discussed important issues aimed at further improving relations between Afghanistan and Pakistan and resolving current challenges, according to the statement issued by the Afghan interior ministry. The Pakistan delegation offered condolences on behalf of Pakistan's Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif, his assistant, and Foreign Minister Ishaq Dar for the "martyrdom" of Khalilur Rehman Haqqani. They expressed deep sympathy to the martyr's family and the Afghan people and prayed for the martyr's forgiveness. Pakistan's Special Representative, Sadiq Khan, also expressed deep sorrow over Khalilur Rehman Haqqani's death and said, "We are determined to resolve the existing issues between Afghanistan and Pakistan through joint efforts, so that economic and public ties between the two countries are further strengthened". As per the Afghan handout, Sirajuddin Haqqani, the interim Minister of the Interior, while welcoming the guests, highlighted the religious, cultural, and historical commonalities between the two neighboring countries. He emphasized, "The current situation demands that efforts be intensified to resolve security and political issues, to prevent any harm to the relationship between the two nations and ensure the stability and development of the region." At the end of the meeting, both sides stressed the need for continued cooperation and reconciliation to further enhance relations. The Pakistani delegation will have more meetings with Afghan authorities on Wednesday before wrapping up the crucial trip. Relations between Pakistan and Afghanistan have remained strained for many months. Pakistan has repeatedly blamed the terrorist hideouts across Afghanistan as the main reason behind the surge in terrorist attacks. The Taliban government have denied the charges and insisted that it does not allow any group to threaten peace and security of the neighbouring country. It has also stressed that the banned Tehreek-e-Taliban Pakistan (TTP) was an internal matter of Pakistan. However, several independent reports endorsed Pakistan's view that the TTP and its leadership have been operating from Afghanistan. The latest move by Pakistan to dispatch a high-powered delegation was part of an effort to give diplomacy a chance to resolve the issue of terrorism. COMMENTS Comments are moderated and generally will be posted if they are on-topic and not abusive. For more information, please see ourHow Trump's bet on voters electing him managed to silence some of his legal woes
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US stocks rally despite Trump tariff threat but European stocks fallMEXICO CITY , Nov. 26, 2024 /PRNewswire/ -- FIBRA Prologis FIBRAPL , a leading owner and operator of Class A industrial real estate in Mexico , announces that the settlement of its tender offer and reciprocal subscription for up to 100% of the outstanding Terrafina CBFIs that are not already owned by FIBRA Prologis (the " Offer "), has been completed successfully. The settlement consisted of (i) the acquisition by Fibra Prologis of 100,289,570 Terrafina CBFIs, which together with the CBFIs already owned by Fibra Prologis prior to the Offer, represent 89.88% of the total outstanding Terrafina CBFIs; and (ii) the issuance by Fibra Prologis of 58,167,950 Exchange CBFIs in exchange for the tendered Terrafina CBFIs. The FIBRA Prologis CBFIs offered in the tender offer have not been, nor will be, registered under the U.S. Securities Act of 1933, as amended (the "Securities Act"), or the securities laws of any state of the United States and may not be offered or sold in the United States absent registration or pursuant to an applicable exemption from the registration requirements under the Securities Act and any applicable state securities laws. PROFILE OF FIBRA PROLOGIS FIBRA Prologis is a leading owner and operator of Class-A industrial real estate in Mexico . As of September 30, 2024 , FIBRA Prologis was comprised of 514 logistics and manufacturing facilities in six industrial markets in Mexico totaling 89.5 million square feet (8.3 million square meters) of gross leasable area along with 165 buildings totaling 24.0 million square feet (2.2 million square meters) of non-strategic assets. FORWARD-LOOKING STATEMENTS The statements in this release that are not historical facts are forward-looking statements. These forward-looking statements are based on current expectations, estimates and projections about the industry and markets in which FIBRA Prologis operates, management's beliefs and assumptions made by management. Such statements involve uncertainties that could significantly impact FIBRA Prologis financial results. Words such as "expects," "anticipates," "intends," "plans," "believes," "seeks," "estimates," variations of such words and similar expressions are intended to identify such forward-looking statements, which generally are not historical in nature. All statements that address operating performance, events or developments that we expect or anticipate will occur in the future — including statements relating to the Offer, are forward-looking statements. These statements are not guarantees of future performance and involve certain risks, uncertainties and assumptions that are difficult to predict. Although we believe the expectations reflected in any forward-looking statements are based on reasonable assumptions, we can give no assurance that our expectations will be attained and therefore, actual outcomes and results may differ materially from what is expressed or forecasted in such forward-looking statements. Some of the factors that may affect outcomes and results include, but are not limited to: (i) national, international, regional and local economic climates, (ii) changes in financial markets, interest rates and foreign currency exchange rates, (iii) increased or unanticipated competition for our properties, (iv) risks associated with acquisitions, dispositions and development of properties, (v) maintenance of real estate investment trust (" FIBRA ") status and tax structuring, (vi) availability of financing and capital, the levels of debt that we maintain and our credit ratings, (vii) risks related to our investments (viii) environmental uncertainties, including risks of natural disasters, and (ix) those additional factors discussed in reports filed with the Mexican National Banking and Securities Commission ( Comisión Nacional Bancaria y de Valores , the " CNBV ") and the Mexican Stock Exchange by FIBRA Prologis under the heading "Risk Factors." FIBRA Prologis undertakes no duty to update any forward-looking statements appearing in this release. Neither the CNBV nor any other authority has approved or disapproved the content of the information of this release, or the accuracy, adequacy or truthfulness of the information contained herein. View original content to download multimedia: https://www.prnewswire.com/news-releases/fibra-prologis-announces-successful-settlement-of-its-tender-offer-for-terrafina-terra-13-302316991.html SOURCE FIBRA Prologis © 2024 Benzinga.com. Benzinga does not provide investment advice. All rights reserved.
( MENAFN - GlobeNewsWire - Nasdaq) TORONTO, Dec. 27, 2024 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) -- Clear Blue Technologies International Inc. (TSXV: CBLU) (FRANKFURT: OYA) (OTCQB: CBUTF) (“ CBLU ” or the“ Company ”) today announces that as a result of strong support from its secured lenders, its shareholders, customers, suppliers, employees and convertible debenture holders and other creditors and investors, it has initiated a proposed package of financial restructuring which should position the company well to embrace the opportunities in front of it in 2025 and beyond. The Package consists of the following: “Clear Blue is strongly positioned to address North American and African Telecom and Smart City opportunities. It is a leader in its target markets and now has 4 proven products, each with strong growth potential. The last 3 years of Covid, war, inflation, interest rate hikes and related events have held the Company back from being able to capitalize on this opportunity. As a result of this financial restructuring, the Company can now move forward and focus on the opportunity in front of it,” said Miriam Tuerk, Co-Founder and CEO of Clear Blue.“A community builds a company, and the Clear Blue community has stepped forward at this stage to support the Company in a big way. We cannot thank everyone enough for their contribution and willingness to work together to achieve this milestone.” Details of the above are provided below: The Company will be entering into debt settlement agreements with certain debenture holders and other creditors to settle an aggregate of approximately $8.77 million indebtedness that will be converted into units of the Company, with each unit comprised of one common share and one common share purchase warrant at a price per common share of $0.03, with each warrant exercisable for 24 months at a strike price of $0.05 (the“ Shares for Debt Transaction ”). If $8.77 million indebtedness is settled then an aggregate of 292,438,847 common shares and 272,503,847 warrants will be issued on closing. The completion of the Shares for Debt Transactions is subject to a number of conditions, including the approval of the TSXV. Upon finalizing agreements with all creditors, the Company will issue a subsequent news release outlining the precise amount of debt settled and the number of units issued on closing. Alongside the Shares for Debt Transaction, the Company has also initiated a non-brokered private placement on identical terms to the Shares for Debt Transaction, with units of the Company to be issued comprised of one common share and one common share purchase warrant at a price per common share of $0.03, with each warrant exercisable for 24 months at a strike price of $0.05 (the“ Private Placement ”, and together with the Shares for Debt Transaction, the“ Transactions ”), for gross proceeds of up to $2 million. The net proceeds from the Private Placement will be used for working capital and general corporate purposes. If the maximum of $2 million is raised, an aggregate of 66,666,666 common shares and 66,666,666 warrants will be issued on closing the Private Placement. The Company also announces a plan to proceed with a consolidation of its issued and outstanding common shares on the basis of six (6) pre-consolidation shares for each one (1) post-consolidation share (the“ Consolidation ”). The Company believes that the Consolidation is in the best interests of shareholders as it will allow the Company to complete the Transactions in accordance with abiding by TSXV policies as well as enhance the marketability of the common shares. Accordingly, the Company plans to hold a special meeting of shareholders on or around the beginning of March 2025, prior to which time an information circular will be sent to shareholders containing additional details pertaining to the Consolidation. No fractional shares will be issued as a result of the Consolidation. Any fractional shares resulting from the Consolidation will be rounded down to the next whole common share. The initial closings of the Transactions are expected to occur on or before December 31, 2024, or such other date as the creditors, investors and the Company may agree upon, and are subject to the completion of formal documentation and the Company receiving all necessary regulatory approvals, including the approval of the TSXV. The securities issued pursuant to the Transactions will be subject to a hold period of four months and one day from the issuance date in accordance with applicable securities laws. Insiders may participate in the Transactions and the participation of insiders will be considered a related party transaction subject to Multilateral Instrument 61-101 – Protection of Minority Security Holders in Special Transactions (“ MI 61-101 ”). The Company intends to rely on exemptions from the formal valuation and minority shareholder approval requirements provided under subsections 5.5(b) and 5.7(1)(a) of MI 61-101 on the basis that no securities of the Company are listed on specified markets and the fair market value of the debt being settled by interested parties does not exceed 25% of the Company's market capitalization. Additionally, the Company announces that it entered into a promissory note dated September 30, 2024, pursuant to which, Miriam and John Tuerk, directors and officers of the Company, collectively loaned the Company the principal amount of $994,704 (the“ Loan ”). The Loan is repayable on January 1, 2026, without interest. The lenders are control persons and directors and officers of the Company, and accordingly, the Loan constitutes a“related party transaction” pursuant to MI 61-101. The Loan is exempt from the formal valuation and minority shareholder approval requirements of 61-101. The Company is exempt from the formal valuation requirement contain in section 5.5(b) of MI 61-101 as the Company does not have securities listed on a specified stock exchange. The Loan is further exempt from the minority shareholder approval requirement pursuant to section 5.7(1)(a) of MI 61-101 as the fair market value of Loan is less than 25% of the Company's market capitalization. This news release does not constitute an offer to sell or a solicitation of an offer to buy any of the securities described in this news release. Such securities have not been, and will not be, registered under the U.S. Securities Act, or any state securities laws, and, accordingly, may not be offered or sold within the United States, or to or for the account or benefit of persons in the United States or "U.S. Persons", as such term is defined in Regulation S promulgated under the U.S. Securities Act, unless registered under the U.S. Securities Act and applicable state securities laws or pursuant to an exemption from such registration requirements. For more information, contact: Miriam Tuerk, Co-Founder and CEO +1 416 433 3952 ... About Clear Blue Technologies International Clear Blue Technologies International, the Smart Off-GridTM company, was founded on a vision of delivering clean, managed,“wireless power” to meet the global need for reliable, low-cost, solar and hybrid power for lighting, telecom, security, Internet of Things devices, and other mission-critical systems. Today, Clear Blue has thousands of systems under management across 37 countries, including the U.S. and Canada. (TSXV: CBLU) (FRA: 0YA) (OTCQB: CBUTF) Legal Disclaimer Neither TSX Venture Exchange nor its Regulation Services Provider (as that term is defined in the policies of the TSX Venture Exchange) accepts responsibility for the adequacy or accuracy of this release. This news release does not constitute an offer to sell or a solicitation of an offer to buy any of the securities described in this news release. Such securities have not been, and will not be, registered under the U.S. Securities Act, or any state securities laws, and, accordingly, may not be offered or sold within the United States, or to or for the account or benefit of persons in the United States or“U.S. Persons”, as such term is defined in Regulation S promulgated under the U.S. Securities Act, unless registered under the U.S. Securities Act and applicable state securities laws or pursuant to an exemption from such registration requirements. Forward-Looking Statement This press release contains certain "forward-looking information" and/or "forward-looking statements" within the meaning of applicable securities laws. Such forward-looking information and forward-looking statements are not representative of historical facts or information or current condition, but instead represent only Clear Blue's beliefs regarding future events, plans or objectives, many of which, by their nature, are inherently uncertain and outside of Clear Blue's control. Generally, such forward-looking information or forward-looking statements can be identified by the use of forward-looking terminology such as "plans", "expects" or "does not expect", "is expected", "budget", "scheduled", "estimates", "forecasts", "intends", "anticipates" or "does not anticipate", or "believes", or variations of such words and phrases or may contain statements that certain actions, events or results "may", "could", "would", "might" or "will be taken", "will continue", "will occur" or "will be achieved". The forward-looking information contained herein may include, but is not limited to, information concerning the Company's current and future financial position. By identifying such information and statements in this manner, Clear Blue is alerting the reader that such information and statements are subject to known and unknown risks, uncertainties and other factors that may cause the actual results, level of activity, performance or achievements of Clear Blue to be materially different from those expressed or implied by such information and statements. An investment in securities of Clear Blue is speculative and subject to several risks including, without limitation, the risks discussed under the heading "Risk Factors" in Clear Blue's listing application dated July 12, 2018. Although Clear Blue has attempted to identify important factors that could cause actual results to differ materially from those contained in the forward-looking information and forward-looking statements, there may be other factors that cause results not to be as anticipated, estimated or intended. In connection with the forward-looking information and forward-looking statements contained in this press release, Clear Blue has made certain assumptions. Although Clear Blue believes that the assumptions and factors used in preparing, and the expectations contained in, the forward-looking information and statements are reasonable, undue reliance should not be placed on such information and statements, and no assurance or guarantee can be given that such forward-looking information and statements will prove to be accurate, as actual results and future events could differ materially from those anticipated in such information and statements. The forward-looking information and forward-looking statements contained in this press release are made as of the date of this press release. All subsequent written and oral forward- looking information and statements attributable to Clear Blue or persons acting on its behalf is expressly qualified in its entirety by this notice. This news release does not constitute an offer to sell or a solicitation of an offer to buy any of the securities described in this news release. Such securities have not been, and will not be, registered under the U.S. Securities Act, or any state securities laws, and, accordingly, may not be offered or sold within the United States, or to or for the account or benefit of persons in the United States or“U.S. Persons”, as such term is defined in Regulation S promulgated under the U.S. Securities Act, unless registered under the U.S. Securities Act and applicable state securities laws or pursuant to an exemption from such registration requirements. 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The Golden State Warriors redefined the meta for success in the NBA, and teams have followed suit. However, no other team has been able to emulate the Steph Curry and Klay Thompson -led Warriors like the Celtics. The defending NBA champions set records in their three-point volume en route to their title. Only a few months later, they are on pace to shatter these records. Former Clippers star, Lou Williams believes Boston’s current offensive strategy is reminiscent of Golden State’s iconic offense of the 2010s. Williams took to FanDuel TV’s Run It Back to share his thoughts on the Celtics’ remarkable three-point shooting this season. In their recent 126-94 win over the Clippers, Boston connected on 22 three-pointers. During their onslaught from the perimeter, Williams was reminded of the play style of one specific team. He said, “Everybody’s trying to mock the Golden State Warriors and the way that they’ve been able to have championship runs and success playing behind the three-point line. One of the things the Golden State Warriors had were the top-two best three-point shooters in NBA history, Klay Thompson and Steph Curry. The Celtics have used that style of play to match [the Warriors] because they have a lot of guys that can shoot the basketball.” Boston doesn’t play exactly like the Warriors teams of old but has expanded on their philosophies. Thompson and Curry spearheaded the Warriors three-point shooting. Although there were times they played five out, their lineups typically featured at least one non-shooter. That player could’ve been Draymond Green, Andre Iguodala, Kevon Looney, or Andrew Bogut. Boston’s entire offense is based on the shooting ability of all five players. The Celtics don’t necessarily have two iconic three-point shooters at the level of Steph Curry and Klay Thompson. However, Williams believes Jayson Tatum and Jaylen Brown worked to achieve the same objective. So far into the season, both players are averaging career highs in three-pointers made and attempted. Brown attempts 7.5 three-pointers and converts 2.5 per game. On the other hand, Tatum attempts 10.7 threes a game and connects on 4.0 of them. Tatum and Brown aren’t the team’s only three-point shooters. The Celtics’ entire roster is packed with decent perimeter shooters, making them a matchup nightmare for teams across the league. The Celtics are attempting 50.6 3-pointers per game and converting on 18.9 of them. Williams continued, “I don’t see a lot of teams beating them when they’re hitting like this.” Many teams experience championship hangovers after winning a title. That has not been the case with the Celtics. Jayson Tatum, the team’s superstar, set the precedent for this key reason. Tatum’s desire to be the best version of himself Unlike other All-NBA players coming off a title, Tatum had a chip on his shoulder. He suited up for Team USA at the Paris Olympics but barely got any playing time. The contempt for the 6-foot-9 forward has reached an all-time high. However, Tatum used it as extra motivation coming into the season. Tatum addressed the basketball world at the Celtics’ media day. “At 26 and I guess as accomplished as I am, I just always feel like, overall, I can still get better,” Tatum said. You haven’t seen the best version of Jayson Tatum... I’m only 26, I should continue to keep getting better.” Tatum backs up his words with his deeds. He is averaging 28.4 points per game, leading the Celtics to a 15-3 record. They are in an ideal position to compete for back-to-back titles, and Tatum is raising his game once more.
Spotlight on Toast: Analyzing the Surge in Options ActivityPrice-conscious holiday shoppers opened their wallets for last-minute online discounts on clothing and stocking stuffers, potentially benefiting retailers that also offered such convenient options as free delivery and curbside pickup. The popularity of online shopping has surged due to its convenience, similar or lower prices than in-store, the availability of services like “buy online, pick up in-store (BOPIS)” and fast, free deliveries, said Michael Schulman, a retail expert at Running Point Capital Advisors. “The shortened holidays season this year compared to last year, with a tighter scrunch between Thanksgiving and Christmas, also left less time for in-store retail shopping and probably incentivized more phone and computer browsing and purchases,” he said. While there were deals aplenty, retailers appeared to have been disciplined with promotions. Target TGT and Dollar Tree’s shares were up nearly 3% in noon trading, while Walmart WMT was flat. According to a Mastercard SpendingPulse report, online spending during the holiday shopping period from Nov. 1 to Dec. 24 grew by 6.7% over last year, compared to a 2.9% increase for in-store sales. This contributed to a total spending increase of 3.8% over 2023, surpassing the previously forecast rise of 3.2% and topping the 3.1% increase during the same period last year. Steve Sadove, senior adviser to Mastercard and former Saks CEO and chairman, told Reuters that spending rose even when higher prices due to inflation were factored in. He noted that the last five days of the holiday season accounted for 10% of all holiday spending, showing “a lot of strength in the end.” With just 27 days between Thanksgiving and Christmas — five fewer than last year – retail executives were less exuberant going into the holiday season. They described their consumers as “selective,” “cautious” and “conservative,” and making “needs-based” purchases. As a result, many retailers doubled down on cutting prices and offering promotions, Bernstein analysts said earlier this month. Walmart WMT said it would continue to bring down prices through rollbacks, while rival Target TGT said it would increase its promotional intensity as shoppers were not as engaged without promotions. Dollar General DG said it expects profits to be pressured from increased promotions in the fourth quarter, while Kroger KR and Five Below FIVE also said they had to reduce prices to be competitive. Walmart and Target spent more on ads to reach shoppers on short-video app TikTok and streaming platforms like Peacock and Hulu during the season, highlighting their membership programs that offer quick delivery and BOPIS. Some of these efforts appear to have worked. Salesforce estimated that the number of BOPIS orders could double during the weekend before Christmas, making up nearly 40% of all online orders for retailers. And deliveries are also strong, with FedEx FDX estimating stronger-than-expected holiday delivery volume last week. Huntsville, Alabama-resident Aireale Hobbs, 40, started Christmas shopping for pajama sets, Stanley drink tumblers, and toys for her family online on Black Friday. She said she chose to do a bulk of her shopping online because of convenience, more options and better deals. “I got some things from Target that were discounted when using the app,” said Hobbs, who works at as a front desk clerk at a doctor’s office. Laptops and TVs with new technology, lower prices and growing acceptance of lab-grown diamonds, and athleisure apparel also encouraged shoppers to spend this holiday season, even though promotions were at the same levels as last year, Sadove said. “Promotions were controlled. Nothing was extra deep and there were no panicked promotions. What we saw was some real consumer strength,” Sadove said, adding that low unemployment and higher wages were buffering personal finances. Sales in the apparel, jewelry and electronics categories were up 3.6%, 4% and 3.7%, respectively over last year, according to Mastercard. Online sales of apparel, in particular, grew 6.7%, compared to 0.2% in stores. Source: ReutersThis was another busy week for Bayern Munich loanees with a few of their teams active in European competitions. Unfortunately the only team that won in European play this week was Sturm Graz, but Zvonarek has been missing from their squad the last few matchdays. On the women’s side, it was a relatively calm week, as only one loanee — Natalia Padilla — was called into their national team for this week’s international window, but she had a huge impact in an important game. FC Bayern Munich There are nine players on loan from the first team. Germany – Bundesliga There are five players on loan in the German Bundesliga: Alexander Nübel, Franz Krätzig, Paul Wanner, Armando Sieb, and Gabriel Vidović. Alexander Nübel – VfB Stuttgart Nübel and Stuttgart did not have a pleasant trip to Serbia this week. Against Red Star Belgrade, Nübel only produced two saves but gave up a total of five goals. He was also credited with an error that directly led one of the goals. Not a great night for Stuttgart, even after they took an early 1-0 lead in the fifth minute. Red Star’s five unanswered goals brought the final score to 5-1 in favor of the hosts. In the return to Germany and to league play, Stuttgart was away to Werder Bremen. Stuttgart started in goal and went the full 90 minutes. His stats were almost opposite of the midweek Champions League match — he saved four attempts on goal and only allowed two goals. Stuttgart equalized twice, but was unable to find a winner, so they split the points on the road with a 2-2 draw. Stuttgart will be on the road to Jahn Regensburg — who sit at bottom of the 2. Bundesliga table at the moment — in the DFB-Pokal on Tuesday. They will finally be back home on Friday to take on Union Berlin. Franz Krätzig – VfB Stuttgart Krätzig was not in the lineups for either of the games this week, nor did he appear for the second team in the 3. Liga. Paul Wanner – 1.FC Heidenheim Heidenheim had the pleasure of playing two matches at home this week, but neither of them went well. On Thursday, they hosted Chelsea in the Conference League. Although they held the once European champions scoreless through the first half, they fell 2-0. Wanner had three shots on goal throughout the 90 minutes he played and also had a shot blocked. He had one chance created, but missed a big chance to score in his attempts to help his team find a goal. Wanner (10) attempts to take the ball from Chelsea’s Jadon Sancho Photo by Alexander Hassenstein/Getty Images Wanner started again for Heidenheim on Sunday as they welcomed Frankfurt in league play. He was unable to get a shot off or create a chance for his teammates to shoot in the first half, and was subbed off at the break when his team was down just 1-0. Wanner would watch his team concede three more goals without scoring any to bring the final score to 4-0. Heidenheim — already out of the Pokal — will only travel to Munich to face Bayern on Saturday. Armando Sieb – 1. FSV Mainz 05 Two early goals were enough to give Mainz a home win against Hoffenheim. Sieb was on the bench, but did not come onto the pitch until one minute into stoppage time. Even with a 2-0 lead Sieb was hungry. With just three touches, he shot three times — one was on target and the other two went just wide. The match ended with a 2-0 win. Mainz will travel to face Wolfsburg in league play on Sunday. Gabriel Vidović – 1. FSV Mainz 05 Vidović is still on the injury list with his ankle injury, but last week’s prognosis was probably too positive. It was hopeful that he could return mid December, but now he is listed to be out until late February. Spain – LaLiga Bryan Zaragoza is the only player on loan to Spain’s LaLiga. Bryan Zaragoza – CA Osasuna Osasuna has not played since last writing. They will travel to face Sevilla on Monday. They will also be on the road to AD Cueta FC in the Copa del Ray before hosting Deportivo Alaves in league play on Sunday. Austria – Bundesliga Lovro Zvonarek is the only player from the first team on loan to the Austrian Bundesliga. Lovro Zvonarek – Sturm Graz Zvonarek was not on the matchday squad for Sturm Graz’ Champions League 1-0 win over Girona — the first win in over 20 years and the first points earned in this campaign. He was also missing in action for the 1-1 road draw against Altach. Sturm Graz will be on the road against WSG Tirol on Saturday. Germany – 2. Bundesliga Maurice Krattenmacher is the only player from the first team on loan to the 2. Bundesliga Maurice Krattenmacher – SSV Ulm 1846 Krattenmacher started for Ulm against Greuther Fürth on Sunday. Former Bayern product, Julian Green started the scoring for Fürth from the penalty spot. Though Krattenmacher was unable to record a short or create a chance for his teammates to shoot, he was taken down in the box to earn a penalty, which his teammate converted in stoppage time of the first half. Krattenmacher was subbed off in the 88th minute. The final score was 1-1 from the first half penalties. Ulm have drawn the last five matches and are winless in seven matches. They will face Lee’s Hannover 96 on the road on Saturday. Germany – 3. Liga Gibson Nana Adu is the only player on loan from the first team in the 3. Liga. Gibson Nana Adu – Unterhaching Adu started for Unterhaching against league leaders Energie Cottbus on the road. He and his teammates were unable to find a goal in the first half, but went down 1-0 in the first half. An Unterhaching own goal made it 2-0 just before Adu was subbed off. The final score would be 2-0. Unterhaching will host Hannover 96 II on Saturday. FC Bayern Munich II There are twelve players on loan from the second team. Germany – 2. Bundesliga Hyun-ju Lee is the only player from the second team loaned out to the 2. Bundesliga Hyun-ju Lee – Hannover 96 Lee was on the bench to see his team go down a goal and a man before rescuing a point on the road via a Köln own goal in the 88th minute, but never made it onto the pitch for the 2-2 draw. Hannover will host Ulm and Krattenmacher on Saturday. Germany – 3. Liga Max Scholze is the only player from the second team on loan to the 3. Liga Max Scholze – SC Verl Scholze was on the bench for SC Verl’s 5-2 road win against Erzgebirge Aue, but did not make it onto the pitch. Verl will host Saarbrücken on Friday. Germany – Regionalliga There are six players Regionalliga teams: Lukas Schneller and Marko Popović in Regionalliga Bayern, Luka Parkadge and Robert Deziel Jr in Regionalliga Nordost, and Yousef Qashi and Benedikt Wimmer in Regionalliga West. Lukas Schneller – Schweinfurt 05 Schneller started in goal and played the full 90 minutes as usual for Schweinfurt. He kept the clean sheet, but unfortunately his teammates were unable to score and they split the points with a 0-0 draw. Schneller and Schweinfurt go into the winter break atop Regionalliga Bayern with 45 points and a goal differential of 26. They are ahead by three points and have a four point lead over Bayern II. It has been a very successful first half for Schneller and his team. They will return to play in March. Marko Popović – Türkgücü München A match this weekend between Hankofen-Hailing and Türkgücü was postponed. In a stark contrast to Schneller and Schweinfurt, Popović and Türkgücü sit in dead last place with only ten points and a -22 goal differential. They have one more game on Saturday, against Greuther Fürth II. Luka Parkadze – Altglienicke The match between Altglienicke and FSV 63 Luckenwalde was postponed this weekend. Robert Deziel Jr – Altglienicke Altglienicke will travel to Leipzig to take on league leaders, 1.FC Lok Leipzig. Yousef Qashi – Wupertaler SV Qashi was on the bench for the start of the match between Wupertaler SV and FC Gütersloh. He entered the match in the 64th minute with his team already up two goals and the scoreline would not change. Benedikt Wimmer – Wupertaler SV Wimmer started for Wupertaler and played the full 90 minutes. He was able to help the defense keep the shutout, while the attack scored two goals and together earned a 2-0 win for the home team. Wupertaler will host Türkspor Dortmund on Saturday. Austria – Bundesliga Matteo Pérez Vinlöf is the only player on loan to the Austrian Bundesliga from the second team. Matteo Pérez Vinlöf – Austria Wien Vinlöf started for Austria Wien away to LASK. He completed 86% of his passes — misplaying just three passes. He had created one chance for his teammates to shoot. His only shot came from outside the box — but was blocked — and was recorded just a minute before he was subbed out. Austria Wien earned a 3-1 road win. Austria Wien will host Altach on Sunday. Austria – 2. Liga Tom Hülsmann is the only player on loan to the Austrian 2. Liga from the second team Tom Hülsmann – SKN St. Pölten Hülsmann started in goal for St. Pölten at home against SV Laffnitz. He faced five shots on goal and saved all five of them to keep a clean sheet. His teammates scored two goals and benefited from a own goal to win 3-0. St. Pölten will host Florisdorfer AC on Friday. Netherlands – Kampioen Divisie David Jonathans is the only player on loan to the Dutch Kampioen Divisie. David Jonathans – FC Den Bosch Jonathans was on the bench for Den Bosch’s 2-3 home loss, but did not make it onto the pitch. Den Bosch will travel to face Helmond Sport on Friday. Portugal – Liga Potugal Taichi Fukui is the only player on loan in Liga Portugal. Taichi Fukui – FC Arouca Fukui was on the bench, but did not make it onto the pitch for Arouca’s 2-0 home loss against Benfica. Arouca be on the road against Estrela da Amadora on Monday, December 9. FC Bayern Frauen There are five players on loan from FC Bayern’s Frauen team. Germany — Frauen-Bundesliga Karólína Lea Vilhjálmsdóttir is the only player on loan in the Frauen-Bundesliga. Karólína Lea Vilhjálmsdóttir – Bayer 04 Leverkusen Vilhjálmsdóttir was not with her national team for this international window. Bayer Leverkusen will host league leaders Wolfsburg on Friday. England – Women’s Super League Jill Baijings is the only player on loan to the Women’s Super League. Jill Baijings – Aston Villa Baijings was not with the Netherlands for international duty this week. Villa will travel to London to face Arsenal on Sunday. Spain – Primera División Femenina Natalia Padilla is the only player on loan to the Primera División Femenina. Natalia Padilla – FC Sevilla Padilla is with the Polish National Team for the final round of W Euro 2025 Qualification. The first leg against Austria was Friday in Poland. Padilla started and scored the match’s lone goal in the 57th minute to give them the win and the advantage going into the second leg. Padilla (19) celebrates her goal with her teammates Photo by Mateusz Slodkowski/Getty Images The next leg will be on Tuesday in the Generalli Arena in Vienna. Just four days later, her club, Sevilla, will travel to take on Real Madrid in a return to club action. Italy – Serie A Cecilía Rán Rúnarsdóttir is the only player on loan to Serie A Cecilía Rán Rúnarsdóttir – Inter Milan Rúnarsdóttir was not with Iceland this international break. Inter are “away” to AC Milan on Sunday. Looking for an extended breakdown of Bayern Munich’s DFB-Pokal showdown with Bayer Leverkusen? Then check out our latest Bavarian Podcast Works Show on Patreon , Spotify , or below: Support Bavarian Podcast Works on Patreon! If you like our podcasts and want more, or just want to listen our episodes ad-free, then support us on Patreon! Every single dollar will be used to help boost the coverage of the team we all love. Mia San Mia. DONATE NOW! Related How will Bayern Munich replace Harry Kane? Vincent Kompany hints that some squad players will do so Manuel Neuer says “focused”, “analytical” Vincent Kompany made difference for Bayern Munich in second half vs. BVB Injury Update: Bad news — Bayern Munich star Harry Kane’s hamstring issue could sideline him for two weeks
Jimmy Carter, the longest-living former president of the United States, has at his home in Georgia, after nearly two years of receiving . As we look back on his life’s contributions, we can see how the values he embodied in his international career are reflected in his end-of-life decisions. These decisions offer lessons for all Americans and Canadians. Carter and his wife Rosalynn, who , each chose hospice care at the end of their lives. Both hospice care and palliative care focus on patient comfort and quality of life for people with serious illnesses, but those receiving hospice care are no longer seeking treatment to cure their condition. Palliative care patients may or may not also be pursuing treatment for their illness. Living our values Canada faces a . Eighty-five per cent of Canadians support federal standards on palliative care and up to 89 per cent of Canadians who die could benefit from it. However, only 15 per cent of Canadians receive publicly funded palliative home care in their last year of life. Only 15 per cent have early access to palliative care in the community. Looking at what the Carters experienced during the former president’s final months can help Canadians better understand the importance of closing this gap. It is a moment to reflect on how the values we embody throughout our lives are equally important when it comes to how we choose to define our end-of-life decisions. Carter in Canada Carter has been for his role in helping to contain the world’s first nuclear accident: the 1952 reactor meltdown in Chalk River, Ont. As a young naval officer, Carter was part of a team of Americans who were . He and others used a replica reactor to practice disassembling parts of the real reactor in shifts of just to try to limit radiation exposure. Carter and his wife Rosalynn are also celebrated by Canadians as key allies of . Habitat has built more than 3,800 homes for hard-working, low-income Canadians in every province and territory for nearly 40 years. Wage peace, fight disease, build hope After leaving the White House in 1979, Carter dedicated his life to building a more peaceful and healthy planet. ’s three-fold mission is to “Wage Peace. Fight Disease. Build Hope.” Just as these three goals have transformed the lives of millions around the world, they have equal importance when applied to the context of personal end-of-life choices. The Carters are widely praised for their courage, from tackling deadly and to . The conversations that are a part of hospice care are also courageous and can ultimately bring inner peace. These include choices like preferences for medical interventions, cultural or religious views on death, the family’s involvement in caregiving, financial considerations, and conversations with children or grandchildren. This is often a time when unresolved issues in relationships can be addressed. is often a great source of satisfaction for people nearing end of life. Seeking assistance to have these brave conversations can bring peace. It can also be a time to deepen and savour existing relationships and, just as , leave a legacy of memories through time spent together. End-of-life decisions Palliative care is centred on alleviating the challenges posed by life-threatening illnesses for both patients and their families, particularly when the emphasis shifts from seeking a cure or disease treatment. The focus lies on addressing the holistic well-being of the individual and their family, encompassing physical, emotional, social and spiritual support. These are critically important issues in Canada, where as rates of chronic conditions, degenerative diseases and cancer . Fighting for quality of life is not a solo battle. Choosing palliative care and encourages courageous conversations about what matters most to both the patient and family. Deciding on the preferred location for receiving care holds particular significance. It stands out as one of the most important discussions families must engage in, frequently revealing unexpected differences in preferences among family members. Patients who fear becoming burdens to their families are often surprised by the eagerness of their through their final days. In other cases, this conversation reveals the necessity of seeking other care options. Hashing this out early means patients and families can make plans that work for all involved. Care and hope Hope does not end when entering hospice care. Indeed, . Palliative care can be a very hopeful time for both the patient and family as they focus on immediate goals and wishes. Just as the Carters wove these threads together in their global efforts to foster better, more peaceful lives, spirituality and religion also play an important role in . Patients and families may redefine hope through the end-of-life process. Throughout various stages, individuals might discover that the concept of . It could manifest as a persistent or survival until a specific milestone, such as a wedding or birth. Alternatively, hope may be centred around a death that aligns with the patient’s wishes and preferences. Canada’s path to accessible palliative care Carter was and actively promoted the idea of implementing a comparable approach in the United States throughout his life. In Canada, funding and policies surrounding palliative care services vary by province and include home care programs, hospices, drug/benefit programs and other services. Some programs, such as , are national in scope. Just as Carter did, educating ourselves about available choices and summoning the courage to confront end-of-life considerations may guide us toward receiving care that preserves hope and dignity until the very end of our lives. To remove this article -( ) shares have been on fire over the past 12 months. During this time, the ASX tech stock has risen by a staggering 150%. This means that if you had invested $10,000 into the utilities and airport software company's shares a year ago, you would now have approximately $25,000. But if you thought the gains were over, think again. ASX tech stock tipped to keep rising According to a note out of Bell Potter this morning, its analysts believe that Gentrack shares could still have plenty of upside. In response to its this week, the broker said: GTK reported a revenue beat ahead of guidance/BPe/consensus, growing +25% to $213m broad-based across operating units, recurring/non-recurring sources and regions. Margin was bottom of guidance range due to LTI costs ahead of expectations. Bell Potter also highlights that the ASX tech stock's outlook is positive and sees upside risk to its guidance. It adds: GTK reiterated its medium-term targets (15%+ rev. CAGR, margin 15%-20%), due to uncertain timing around potential deals closing and timing of revenue recognition in FY25. Upside risk to 15%+ revenue CAGR was flagged on the analyst call. EPS changes following the update include -16%/flat/+6% through FY25e/26e/27e, with FY25e/26e impacted by rolling off LTI costs, somewhat offset by slight revenue increases. We note forecast EPS CAGR of 56% b/w 24-27e. Time to buy The note reveals that Bell Potter has reaffirmed its buy rating on the company's shares with an improved price target of $13.90 (from $11.50). Based on its current share price of $12.04, this implies potential upside of 15.5% for investors over the next 12 months. Commenting on its buy recommendation, the broker said: Our TP increases to A$13.90/sh on earnings leverage in future periods and reduction in WACC to 10.5% on decrease in market risk premium. We are bullish on GTK's ability to maintain customer win momentum in both ROW and Core markets, supporting high NRR revenues, flow on ARR, but masks 'true' EBITDA margin during growth phases. Customer win momentum is underpinned by rapidly shifting energy consumption and production trends, driving increased complexity within the grids which is meeting technical debt within legacy billing platforms. All in all, the broker appears to believe that it isn't too late to snap up this ASX tech stock even if it has more than doubled in value since this time last year.We’re just days away at this point from putting 2024 in our rearview mirror — which, for those of us who cover all things streaming, means that it’ll soon be time to turn our attention to what all the major streamers have teed up for the year to come. In this post, I’m going to take a closer look at three upcoming that will be available on in 2025. They don’t have official release dates yet, but what’s already certain is that all three of these will dominate the cultural conversation once they arrive. HBO has already teased a look at its jam-packed release slate for 2025, via a sizzle reel that offered sneak peeks of new seasons of and , in addition to shows like , , and . For the moment, there are the three upcoming HBO titles that I’m most excited for — arranged in no particular order, we’ll start things off with a return to Westeros. is getting another highly anticipated addition to the franchise in the coming year, via the spinoff . In terms of what we know about it so far: The story is set a century before the events of the OG series, in an age when the Targaryen line still controls the Iron Throne and “the memory of the last dragon has not yet passed from living memory.” At the story’s center are two unlikely heroes wandering Westeros — a naive but courageous young knight named Ser Duncan the Tall and his diminutive squire Egg. Creator George R.R. Martin has given interviews in the past in which he’s talked about wanting to tell more “small” stories like this one within the larger world of — in the style of , which took two minor characters from and focused on them rather than the bigger and more familiar story. This new spinoff, needless to say, promises an exciting return to the franchise’s world of politics and power struggles. Sign up for the most interesting tech & entertainment news out there. By signing up, I agree to the and have reviewed the for this next upcoming HBO series, which dropped back in September, has already whetted the appetites of fans craving the new season of . The relationship between Pedro Pascal’s Joel and Bella Ramsey’s Ellie will obviously continue to be core to the show. Season 2 will also bring us the continued presence of the fearsome Clickers, as well as the Seraphite religious sect. The story will pick up after the dramatic first season finale, which saw Joel and Ellie reach Salt Lake City and the latter being resolute in accepting that her immunity might be the only path toward a cure for the show’s pandemic. New characters who will join the show this season include Kaitlyn Dever’s Abby, as well as Ellie’s love interest Dina, played by Isabela Merced. The luxury hotel chain at the center of this next popular HBO series will expand its fictional footprint to Thailand for the third season of , following the brand welcoming guests to Hawaii and Sicily in Seasons 1 and 2. The great draw of the show from creator Mike White is how it uses a luxurious setting as the backdrop for slice-of-life stories about both guests and hotel staff, mixing dark humor and social satire to create one of the most memorable TV releases of the last several years. The cast for Season 3 will include Carrie Coon, Walton Goggins, Michelle Monaghan, and Parker Posey, with Blackpink member and Thailand native Lisa (credited as Lalisa Manobal) also making an appearance. Beyond that, we know almost nothing of the new season’s plot. Both previous seasons, of course, opened with a shot of an unidentified body, setting up a mystery that propelled each season’s story. Meanwhile, there’s already been talk of a potential fourth season in the works, even before HBO gives us a release date for Season 3.
The AP Top 25 men’s college basketball poll is back every week throughout the season! Get the poll delivered straight to your inbox with AP Top 25 Poll Alerts. Sign up here . FORT MYERS, Fla. (AP) — Dashon Gittens led Florida International with 16 points, including the the game-winning layup with 22 seconds remaining in the overtime, and the Panthers knocked off CSU Bakersfield 76-73 on Saturday. Gittens, whose 3-pointer with2.2 seconds left forced overtime, shot 4 of 10 from the field, including 2 for 4 from 3-point range, and went 6 for 6 from the line for the Panthers (2-4). Jonathan Aybar added 14 points while shooting 3 for 8 (2 for 4 from 3-point range) and 6 of 6 from the free-throw line and he also had three steals. Asim Jones shot 2 of 7 from the field, including 2 for 5 from 3-point range, and went 6 for 6 from the line to finish with 12 points. Jemel Jones finished with 18 points for the Roadrunners (3-3). Marvin McGhee added 15 points and six rebounds for CSU Bakersfield. Fidelis Okereke also had 14 points, six rebounds and four blocks. ___ The Associated Press created this story using technology provided by Data Skrive and data from Sportradar .Nvidia CEO says global cooperation in tech will continue under Trump administration
Huge cost of vegan’s bizarre rantWicked director defends the movie's BIGGEST flaw amid fan outrage Have YOU got a story? Email tips@dailymail.com By TERRY ZELLER FOR DAILYMAIL.COM Published: 22:58 GMT, 25 November 2024 | Updated: 23:01 GMT, 25 November 2024 e-mail View comments The new Wicked movie has dazzled critics and dominated the box office , but its director still felt the need to defend one of the film’s most debated aspects: the color grading. Some moviegoers have taken issue with the film’s more muted tones, especially when compared to the vibrant Technicolor magic of the original 1939 The Wizard of Oz. Jon M. Chu, who helmed the big-screen adaptation of the Broadway smash starring Cynthia Erivo and Ariana Grande , addressed these critiques head-on after the film was called ‘a little desaturated’ during an interview with The Globe and Mail . 'I mean, there’s color all over it,' Chu said. 'What we wanted to do was immerse people into Oz, to make it a real place. Because if it was a fake place, if it was a dream in someone’s mind, then the real relationships and stakes that these two girls are going through wouldn’t feel real.' Chu went on to explain that his goal was to present Oz in a fresh way, one that audiences hadn’t seen before. 'It’s been a matte painting. It’s been a video game digital world,' he noted. 'But for us, I want to feel the dirt. I want to feel the wear and tear of it. And that means it’s not plastic.' Jon M. Chu, who helmed the big-screen adaptation of the Broadway smash starring Cynthia Erivo and Ariana Grande , addressed critiques head-on after the film was called ‘a little desaturated’ during an interview with The Globe and Mail 'I mean, there’s color all over it,' Chu said. 'What we wanted to do was immerse people into Oz, to make it a real place. Because if it was a fake place, if it was a dream in someone’s mind, then the real relationships and stakes that these two girls are going through wouldn’t feel real' The film’s color grading, Chu explained, mirrors the deep connection between the characters and the land they inhabit. The vast landscapes, natural light, and creatures of Oz are central to the story, particularly how Elphaba’s presence gradually shapes the world, with the color contrast intensifying as her influence grows. Read More Fans baffled by Ariana Grande's unrecognizable appearance in 2022 throwback snap from Wicked However, Chu’s explanations didn’t exactly win over all fans, with some taking issue with his emphasis on realism. 'Counterpoint: movies are dreams and can look as bold and crazy as dreams do. Why not? Who is demanding this realism?' one fan retorted. Another added, 'The real world isn’t desaturated.' And one user didn’t mince words, bluntly stating, 'The film is lit like an insurance commercial.' The color scheme has been a hot topic on social media ever since the first-look images were released in April. And when asked about criticism that those early images were too dark, Chu had an explanation. However, Chu’s explanations didn’t exactly win over all fans, with some taking issue with his emphasis on realism The color scheme has been a hot topic on social media ever since the first-look images were released in April 'I chose those images specifically,' he admitted at the time in an interview with Variety . 'It was so early, and we had just started shooting. I wanted images that were evocative and provocative to show it’s not some bright, poppy story.' 'We didn’t even have the effects done. The background was blue. I had to have VFX put in the sky. I was coloring it on my iPhone,' he added, clearly unbothered by the early criticism. The defense comes as Chu also offered one piece of advice for those going to see the film - as some viewers have been complaining about sound issues. He encouraged fans to take their audio experience into their own hands in a social media post on November 23 ahead of the film's opening weekend. Posting on X he penned: 'Tell your movie theater to turn it up to a 7... 'I've gone to a couple screenings and they are more like a 6.4. If you want it the way it was intended 7 is the way.' His comment refers to sound levels for the Dolby audio systems used in some cinemas. The news comes after it was reported that British filmmaker Stephen Daldry was originally set to direct the spectacle and had big plans to cast Lady Gaga as Elphaba and Shawn Mendes as Fiyero Dolby then responded to Chu's post, writing underneath: 'We've got you covered.' The news comes after it was reported that British filmmaker Stephen Daldry was originally set to direct the spectacle and had big plans to cast Lady Gaga as Elphaba and Shawn Mendes as Fiyero, according to a source who spoke to Page Six on Tuesday. The Born This Way singer even met with the production team multiple times to discuss her take on the character. 'They had meetings, the two of them, about the character and who she would be. [Gaga] was essentially cast in his version, and then it fell through,' the insider revealed. But Daldry’s vision never came to be—he left the project in 2020 due to scheduling conflicts. Enter Chu, who took over as director and reimagined the cast, ultimately bringing Erivo on as Elphaba, Grande as Glinda the Good Witch, and Jonathan Bailey as Fiyero. Share or comment on this article: Wicked director defends the movie's BIGGEST flaw amid fan outrage e-mail Add comment
Micron’s Surge. How Its Stock Price Could Change the Gaming World.
Arsenal defender Gabriel kept Viktor Gyokeres quiet — then had the audacity to steal the in-demand Sporting Lisbon striker's trademark goal celebration. After heading in Arsenal's third first-half goal in the Champions League on Tuesday, Gabriel linked the fingers of his hands and placed them over his eyes, before laughing with his teammates. It was most likely a dig at Gyokeres, the Sweden striker who has quickly become one of European soccer's hottest properties . Because that is how Gyokeres celebrates his goals. “It's fun that he likes my celebration,” Gyokeres told Viaplay after the match. “He can steal it if he cannot come up with his own.” Gyokeres has scored 24 goals for Sporting in all competitions and was coming off netting four for Sweden in a Nations League match against Azerbaijan. Earlier in the first half, Gabriel had enjoyed tackling and dispossessing Gyokeres near the Arsenal area — waving both his arms in a gesture to the crowd. Gabriel's goal made it 3-0 to Arsenal at halftime and the English team went on to win 5-1, with Gyokeres failing to score. He did hit the post with a shot late in the game, however — after Gabriel had gone off with an injury. “Today he wasn't that dangerous,” Arsenal striker Kai Havertz said of Gyokeres, “but I think it's because we defended very well.” AP soccer: https://apnews.com/hub/soccer
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Vitaliy Aheyev from Ukraine was discharged from the army after being shot in the stomach and the leg in the war with Russia and spending 10 months in captivity. Following six years in the military, the 24-year-old needed to train for a new job. Learning how to cook seemed a good choice, and if he could train under a Michelin-starred celebrity in France, so much the better. Aheyev has just completed two months of training at a school in Toulouse, southwestern France, run by star chef Thierry Marx. He is one among of a delegation of novice and experienced chefs originally from Mariupol, the Ukrainian port city now under Russian control. Marx, an author, TV celebrity and specialist in molecular cooking -- which puts the emphasis on the chemical reactions of ingredients -- has a history of using his skills for social engagement, local sourcing of food and an ecological approach. A former soldier himself, Marx has two Michelin stars to his name. "Cooking is really the only way to rekindle trusting relationships," Marx said. "The power of social ties is important, especially in a country at war". Marx runs a network of cooking schools dedicated to give training to people he calls "casualties of life". Aheyev, tattooed and with a ready smile, has a reputation as the mischief maker of the group, which is known here as "the Marik brigade" after the city's nickname. But even while he teases his co-trainees relentlessly, his attention is always firmly on the food he prepares, in this instance beef tataki, a Japanese fusion dish. "These two months in Toulouse did me a lot of good, it was almost like a holiday, even though we're working," Aheyev said. "We've discovered a different culture. The association of ingredients in French cooking is strange, but the result is very good," he said. Blanquette de veau, boeuf bourguignon and magret de canard are staple recipes on the menu for the trainees, as are the classics of French dessert art, such as the Paris-Brest, a baked ring of pastry featuring almonds and lots of cream. "These recipes require practising fundamental skills," said Claude Resimont, one of the school's instructors. "The idea is to teach them the 80 basic techniques of French cooking." Trainee Juliya Kurnalyeyeva, 38 -- who has been working in a restaurant in Ivano-Frankivsk in Ukrainne's east after fleeing Russian bombs in Mariupol -- said is happy to acquire such skills. She also discovered a real passion for French pastry, such as eclairs and croissants. "Cooking is important, it brings joy," said the mother of two. But when the conversation turned to the war, her expression darkened. "I dream of the war being over so I can open a restaurant in a country at peace." Most of the trainees will be able to employ their new skills in Dnipro in eastern Ukraine, where they are now based after leaving their home town. A renovated student housing complex sheltering 1,400 displaced people there features a restaurant dubbed "the Mariupol canteen". Edward Mayor, president of the Stand with Ukraine NGO -- which is behind the restaurant and the Toulouse training program -- said his organization had wanted to do "something useful and reassuring" with the initiatives. "Those staying in Ukraine need safety, but also a home and a job," he said. "Cooking is a way to rebuild after trauma." Once back in the "Mariupol canteen" the freshly trained chefs will cook "for their community" and "teach other Ukrainians", said Marx, who is planning to give a masterclass there. "They're ready to run the Mariupol canteen," said instructor Resimont. "I was impressed by how motivated and diligent they are, despite everything they've been through," she said. "I'm going to miss them."
Political pundits, media anchors, and celebrities might have been surprised by the results of the election, but I wasn't. I've been speaking with manufacturers, innovators, small business owners, and families in Kansas and across the country and they all had the same message: We need to change the economic trajectory of our country. I couldn't agree more—and tax reform that unlocks innovation is how we do that. Now that the stage has been set for 2025, it's time to take action. Tax reform is an issue that all Americans, regardless of their party affiliation, can get behind. The average taxpayer in the Fourth District of Kansas—my district—would see a 27 percent tax hike if provisions from the Tax Cuts and Jobs Act (TCJA) are allowed to expire. That equates to the average Kansas family seeing their taxes increase by more than $2,200. After years of elevated inflation no American can afford this extra expense. The expiration of TCJA's business provisions would also hurt families and individuals. Without these provisions, one of which allows immediate expensing for research and development (R&D), businesses—small and large alike—will face increased costs, which ultimately leads to higher costs for consumers. In my district alone, more than 46,900 small businesses would face a 43.4 percent tax rate increase if the 199A Small Business Deduction expires. Failing to renew these provisions would be a mistake. The data confirm the success of TCJA, including its business provisions. Before TCJA, foreign-owned businesses were buying up American businesses using a process called inversion. There has not been a single corporate inversion since TCJA was implemented, and the Congressional Budget Office (CBO) recently reported FY24 corporate receipts of $529 billion. This far exceeds CBO's post-TCJA projection of $421 billion in corporate receipts. All of this means more tax revenue in the U.S. treasury, more jobs in the United States, and more homegrown innovation. And keeping innovation in our country is critical. We are competing globally for innovation, R&D dollars, and jobs. If we don't renew and expand our critical innovation policies, then jobs, manufacturing facilities, and cutting-edge technologies will grow elsewhere. This is why Republicans and Democrats agree that we need a tax code that encourages U.S. innovation, and it is why my bill to restore R&D expensing is one of the most bipartisan cosponsored bills in Congress . My home state of Kansas is bustling with innovation, including breakthroughs to advance defense and aerospace technology, biotechnology, chips and semiconductors, and biofuels and carbon-capture technology. But the companies making these advances are hampered by bad policies, like R&D amortization, that affect more than just businesses; they affect workers as well. Three-quarters of research and development spending goes toward wages and salaries, making R&D amortization not just an investment, tax, and intellectual property issue, but also an important jobs issue. TCJA helped reinvigorate the U.S. tax code and make it more competitive, resulting in hundreds of billions of dollars in new royalties from U.S. intellectual property. These new royalties contributed tax revenue to the U.S. treasury and led to the creation of new American jobs. By preserving, protecting, and improving TCJA next year, we can reignite this same kind of growth. As a member of the Ways and Means Committee and the chair of its U.S. Innovation Tax Team, I've spent countless hours traveling around my district—and around the country—to hear directly from workers, business owners, and manufacturers to understand how TCJA helped them and how they would be negatively affected if its provisions expired. A clear, consistent message has come through: America needs a common-sense, consistent tax code that encourages growth and doesn't penalize our workers and family businesses. The House of Representatives has already shown that it is possible to find consensus on this sort of common-sense, pro-growth policy by passing the Tax Relief for American Families and Workers Act in January. Not only did this legislation pass, but it passed with overwhelming bipartisan support, 357-70, a rare feat these days. Congress and the American people have an appetite for sensible tax reform that will boost the economy and allow Americans to keep more money in their pockets. It's our job now to come together and deliver it. Ron Estes, one of only a handful of engineers in Congress, worked in the aerospace, energy and manufacturing sectors before representing Kansas' Fourth Congressional District since 2017. He is a fifth-generation Kansan, former state treasurer, and serves on the House Committee on Ways and Means, Budget Committee, and Education and the Workforce Committee. The views expressed in this article are the writer's own.
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Stephen A. Smith Is Trending After Heated Exchange With Shannon SharpeTottenham boss Ange Postecoglou says Timo Werner's performance was "not acceptable" after replacing him at half-time in the 1-1 Europa League draw at Rangers. The German forward, 28, lost possession 16 times, did not win any of his five duels and only completed 69% of his passes. Former Rangers striker Steven Thompson, covering the game for BBC Sportsound, said at the time: "Timo Werner's final decision on the ball so far has been abysmal. "I'll be amazed if he's not hooked at half-time." Werner was indeed replaced before the players came out for the second half by Dejan Kulusevski, who went on to score a 75th-minute Spurs equaliser after Hamza Igamane had given Rangers the lead two minutes into the second half. "When you've got 18-year-olds [in the squad], it [that performance] is not acceptable to me," said Postecoglou. "I said that to Timo, he's a German international." Former Chelsea forward Werner, who is on loan from RB Leipzig, has only scored once in 19 appearances. This was his eighth start. Tottenham forwards Richarlison and Wilson Odobert are currently sidelined and Postecoglou added: "In the moment we're in right now - it's not like we've got many options - I need everyone to at least be going out there and trying to give the best of themselves. "His performance in the first half wasn't acceptable. "We need everybody, including him, to be contributing because we don't have the depth to leave people out if they perform poorly. I expect a level of performance from some of the senior guys, and tonight wasn't that." The draw at Ibrox left Tottenham with only one win in their last eight games in all competitions. Werner has failed to excel since arriving from Leipzig last January. The loan deal was initially until the end of last season - and then extended to cover this campaign too. Werner scored twice in 14 games in the second half of 2023-24, but has netted only once in 19 appearances this season, with his struggles evidenced in the price built into his temporary deal. Under the first arrangement, Spurs had the option to sign him for £15m - but it is now an £8.5m option to buy. Werner has 24 goals from his 57 Germany caps, but last played for his country in a friendly defeat by Belgium in March 2023. He also scored 23 goals in 89 appearances during a two-year spell at Chelsea, winning the 2021 Champions League, Uefa Super Cup and Fifa Club World Cup, before rejoining Leipzig in 2022.
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OSAKA, Japan & CAMBRIDGE, Mass. — Takeda will host an investor R&D Day today beginning at 8:30 a.m. JST in Tokyo. The meeting will focus on programs in the company’s late-stage pipeline, the transformative value they could deliver to patients, and the market opportunities they represent. “We are focused on advancing our innovative pipeline and accelerating late-stage programs to deliver sustainable revenue growth to 2030 and beyond, building upon the strong momentum of our Growth and Launch Products,” said Christophe Weber, Takeda chief executive officer. “The first three Phase 3 programs will read out in 2025, initiating a cadence of potential filings across multiple indications over the next several years.” The late-stage pipeline includes oveporexton (TAK-861), zasocitinib (TAK-279), rusfertide (TAK-121), mezagitamab (TAK-079), fazirsiran (TAK-999) and elritercept (TAK-226). Combined these programs have potential peak revenue of $10B – $20B. Data from three Phase 3 programs is expected to read out in 2025: Filings for these three indications are expected in fiscal years 2025 and 2026. Five additional indication filings for late-stage programs are on pace for fiscal years 2027 through 2029: “Takeda has established an exciting, late-stage pipeline of transformative therapies that we believe will deliver value to our company and, most importantly, to the patients we serve around the world,” said Andy Plump, president of R&D at Takeda. “As we continue scaling our capabilities and maximizing R&D investment to deliver the late-stage pipeline, we are also progressing an exciting early-stage pipeline, supporting a cutting-edge research organization, and focusing on creative business development across our therapeutic areas to sustain Takeda’s future and continue to meet significant unmet patient needs.” The meeting includes the following presentations and speakers: Christophe Weber, President & CEO Andy Plump, President, Research and Development Sarah Sheikh, Head of Neuroscience Therapeutic Area Unit and Head of Global Development Ramona Sequeira, President of Global Portfolio Division Chinwe Ukomadu, Head of Gastrointestinal and Inflammation Therapeutic Area Unit Ramona Sequeira, President of Global Portfolio Division Teresa Bitetti, President Global Oncology Business Unit P.K. Morrow, Head of Oncology Therapeutic Area Unit A live webcast of the meeting begins at 8:30 a.m. JST December 13 (6:30 p.m. EST December 12). Presentations are available on the where a video replay will be available following the meeting. Takeda is focused on creating better health for people and a brighter future for the world. We aim to discover and deliver life-transforming treatments in our core therapeutic and business areas, including gastrointestinal and inflammation, rare diseases, plasma-derived therapies, oncology, neuroscience and vaccines. Together with our partners, we aim to improve the patient experience and advance a new frontier of treatment options through our dynamic and diverse pipeline. As a leading values-based, R&D-driven biopharmaceutical company headquartered in Japan, we are guided by our commitment to patients, our people and the planet. Our employees in approximately 80 countries and regions are driven by our purpose and are grounded in the values that have defined us for more than two centuries. For more information, visit . For the purposes of this notice, “press release” means this document, any oral presentation, any question and answer session and any written or oral material discussed or distributed by Takeda Pharmaceutical Company Limited (“Takeda”) regarding this release. This press release (including any oral briefing and any question-and-answer in connection with it) is not intended to, and does not constitute, represent or form part of any offer, invitation or solicitation of any offer to purchase, otherwise acquire, subscribe for, exchange, sell or otherwise dispose of, any securities or the solicitation of any vote or approval in any jurisdiction. No shares or other securities are being offered to the public by means of this press release. No offering of securities shall be made in the United States except pursuant to registration under the U.S. Securities Act of 1933, as amended, or an exemption therefrom. This press release is being given (together with any further information which may be provided to the recipient) on the condition that it is for use by the recipient for information purposes only (and not for the evaluation of any investment, acquisition, disposal or any other transaction). Any failure to comply with these restrictions may constitute a violation of applicable securities laws. The companies in which Takeda directly and indirectly owns investments are separate entities. In this press release, “Takeda” is sometimes used for convenience where references are made to Takeda and its subsidiaries in general. Likewise, the words “we”, “us” and “our” are also used to refer to subsidiaries in general or to those who work for them. These expressions are also used where no useful purpose is served by identifying the particular company or companies. This press release and any materials distributed in connection with this press release may contain forward-looking statements, beliefs or opinions regarding Takeda’s future business, future position and results of operations, including estimates, forecasts, targets and plans for Takeda. Without limitation, forward-looking statements often include words such as “targets”, “plans”, “believes”, “hopes”, “continues”, “expects”, “aims”, “intends”, “ensures”, “will”, “may”, “should”, “would”, “could”, “anticipates”, “estimates”, “projects” or similar expressions or the negative thereof. These forward-looking statements are based on assumptions about many important factors, including the following, which could cause actual results to differ materially from those expressed or implied by the forward-looking statements: the economic circumstances surrounding Takeda’s global business, including general economic conditions in Japan and the United States; competitive pressures and developments; changes to applicable laws and regulations, including global health care reforms; challenges inherent in new product development, including uncertainty of clinical success and decisions of regulatory authorities and the timing thereof; uncertainty of commercial success for new and existing products; manufacturing difficulties or delays; fluctuations in interest and currency exchange rates; claims or concerns regarding the safety or efficacy of marketed products or product candidates; the impact of health crises, like the novel coronavirus pandemic, on Takeda and its customers and suppliers, including foreign governments in countries in which Takeda operates, or on other facets of its business; the timing and impact of post-merger integration efforts with acquired companies; the ability to divest assets that are not core to Takeda’s operations and the timing of any such divestment(s); and other factors identified in Takeda’s most recent Annual Report on Form 20-F and Takeda’s other reports filed with the U.S. Securities and Exchange Commission, available on Takeda’s website at: or at . Takeda does not undertake to update any of the forward-looking statements contained in this press release or any other forward-looking statements it may make, except as required by law or stock exchange rule. Past performance is not an indicator of future results and the results or statements of Takeda in this press release may not be indicative of, and are not an estimate, forecast, guarantee or projection of Takeda’s future results. References in this press release to peak revenue potential ranges are estimates that have not been adjusted for probability of technical and regulatory success (PTRS) and should not be considered a forecast or target. These peak revenue potential ranges represent Takeda’s assessments of various possible future commercial scenarios that may or may not occur. References in this press release to PTRS are to internal estimates of Takeda regarding the likelihood of obtaining regulatory approval for a particular product in a particular indication. These estimates reflect the subjective judgment of responsible Takeda personnel and have been approved by Takeda’s Portfolio Review Committee for use in internal planning. This press release contains information about products that may not be available in all countries, or may be available under different trademarks, for different indications, in different dosages, or in different strengths. Nothing contained herein should be considered a solicitation, promotion or advertisement for any prescription drugs including the ones under development. Elritercept is included for reference only. Takeda entered into an exclusive license agreement with Keros for global rights, in all territories outside of mainland China, Hong Kong and Macau, to Elritercept. The closing of the transaction is subject to receipt of regulatory approval(s), expected in the first calendar quarter of 2025. Takeda does not currently have rights to Elritercept. ___________________________ References in this presentation to peak revenue potential are estimates that have not been adjusted for probability of technical and regulatory success (PTRS) and should not be considered a forecast or target. These peak revenue ranges represent Takeda’s assessments of various possible future commercial scenarios that may or may not occur. +81 (0) 90-6481-3412
NEW YORK (AP) — Technology stocks pulled Wall Street to another record amid a mixed Monday of trading. The S&P 500 rose 0.2% from its all-time high set on Friday to post a record for the 54th time this year. The Dow Jones Industrial Average fell 128 points, or 0.3%, while the Nasdaq composite gained 1%. Super Micro Computer, a stock that’s been on an AI-driven roller coaster, soared 28.7% to lead the market. Following allegations of misconduct and the resignation of its public auditor , the maker of servers used in artificial-intelligence technology said an investigation found no evidence of misconduct by its management or by the company’s board. It also said that it doesn’t expect to restate its past financials and that it will find a new chief financial officer, appoint a general counsel and make other moves to strengthen its governance. Big Tech stocks also helped prop up the market. Gains of 1.8% for Microsoft and 3.2% for Meta Platforms were the two strongest forces pushing upward on the S&P 500. Intel was another propellant during the morning, but it lost an early gain to fall 0.5% after the chip company said CEO Pat Gelsinger has retired and stepped down from the board. Intel is looking for Gelsinger’s replacement, and its chair said it’s “committed to restoring investor confidence.” Intel recently lost its spot in the Dow Jones Industrial Average to Nvidia, which has skyrocketed in Wall Street’s frenzy around AI. Stellantis, meanwhile, skidded following the announcement of its CEO’s departure . Carlos Tavares steps down after nearly four years in the top spot of the automaker, which owns car brands like Jeep, Citroën and Ram, amid an ongoing struggle with slumping sales and an inventory backlog at dealerships. The world’s fourth-largest automaker’s stock fell 6.3% in Milan. The majority of stocks in the S&P 500 likewise fell, including California utility PG&E. It dropped 5% after saying it would sell $2.4 billion of stock and preferred shares to raise cash. Retailers were mixed amid what’s expected to be the best Cyber Monday on record and coming off Black Friday . Target, which recently gave a forecast for the holiday season that left investors discouraged , fell 1.2%. Walmart , which gave a more optimistic forecast, rose 0.2%. Amazon, which looks to benefit from online sales from Cyber Monday, climbed 1.4%. All told, the S&P 500 added 14.77 points to 6,047.15. The Dow fell 128.65 to 44,782.00, and the Nasdaq composite climbed 185.78 to 19,403.95. The stock market largely took Donald Trump’s latest threat on tariffs in stride. The president-elect on Saturday threatened 100% tariffs against a group of developing economies if they act to undermine the U.S. dollar. Trump said he wants the group, headlined by Brazil, Russia, India and China, to promise it won’t create a new currency or otherwise try to undercut the U.S. dollar. The dollar has long been the currency of choice for global trade. Speculation has also been around a long time that other currencies could knock it off its mantle, but no contender has come close. The U.S. dollar’s value rose Monday against several other currencies, but one of its strongest moves likely had less to do with the tariff threats. The euro fell amid a political battle in Paris over the French government’s budget . The euro sank 0.7% against the U.S. dollar and broke below $1.05. In the bond market, Treasury yields gave up early gains to hold relatively steady. The yield on the 10-year Treasury climbed above 4.23% during the morning before falling back to 4.19%. That was just above its level of 4.18% late Friday. A report in the morning showed the U.S. manufacturing sector contracted again last month, but not by as much as economists expected. This upcoming week will bring several big updates on the job market, including the October job openings report, weekly unemployment benefits data and the all-important November jobs report. They could steer the next moves for Federal Reserve, which recently began pulling interest rates lower to give support to the economy. Economists expect Friday’s headliner report to show U.S. employers accelerated their hiring in November, coming off October’s lackluster growth that was hampered by damaging hurricanes and strikes. “We now find ourselves in the middle of this Goldilocks zone, where economic health supports earnings growth while remaining weak enough to justify potential Fed rate cuts,” according to Mark Hackett, chief of investment research at Nationwide. In financial markets abroad, Chinese stocks led gains worldwide as monthly surveys showed improving conditions for manufacturing, partly driven by a surge in orders ahead of Trump’s inauguration next month. Both official and private sector surveys of factory managers showed strong new orders and export orders, possibly partly linked to efforts by importers in the U.S. to beat potential tariff hikes by Trump once he takes office. Indexes rose 0.7% in Hong Kong and 1.1% in Shanghai. AP Business Writers Matt Ott and Elaine Kurtenbach contributed.
NoneRams claim '23 1st-round CB Forbes off waiversRavens QB Jackson leads first NFL Pro Bowl fan voting results
Jaguars place QB Trevor Lawrence (concussion) on IRSeattle Seahawks receiver is DK Metcalf is just fine when he doesn't have the the ball because it means he gets to showcase his blocking skills. “I just look at it as a sign of respect that I’ve gained from other defensive coordinators and just continue to do my job with it as blocking or being a decoy,” the two-time Pro Bowler said. While opposing defenses have keyed in on Metcalf, other aspects of Seattle's offense have surfaced during its four-game winning streak. The run has the Seahawks (8-5) sitting atop the NFC West heading into Sunday night's game against the visiting Green Bay Packers (9-4). Geno Smith's new top target is second-year receiver Jaxon Smith-Njigba, who needs 89 receiving yards for his first career 1,000-yard season. Smith-Njigba has 75 catches for 911 yards and five touchdowns, while Metcalf, often dealing with double coverage, has 54 catches for 812 yards and two scores. Metcalf says he feels the pride of a “proud parent or a big brother” when it comes to Smith-Njigba's success. Seattle's offense also got a boost from the ground game . Zach Charbonnet, filling in for the injured Kenneth Walker III, ran for a career-best 134 yards and two touchdowns. The Seahawks face another hot team in the Packers (9-4), who have won seven of nine. Green Bay's two losses over that stretch have come against NFC-best Detroit (12-1), on Dec. 5, which means the NFC North title is likely out of reach for the Packers. The Packers are well-positioned for a playoff berth, but that almost certainly won't come this weekend. They would need a win, a loss or tie by the Atlanta Falcons and a tie between the Los Angeles Rams and San Francisco 49ers. Metcalf, who learned to block from his father, former Chicago Bears offensive lineman Terrence Metcalf, says he tries to take blocking seriously to set himself apart from other receivers. His priorities are simple when he's getting double-teamed and the ball goes elsewhere. “Trying to block my (butt) off and trying to get pancakes on defensive backs,” he said. Love heats up When the Packers surged their way into the playoffs last season, quarterback Jordan Love was a major reason why. He had 18 touchdown passes and one interception during Green Bay's final eight games. During the last four games of this season, Love ranks third in the NFL with a 118.9 passer rating with six touchdowns, one interception and a league-best 10.3 yards per attempt. “I always feel like I can put the ball where I want to — and that’s part of it, too, having that confidence to be able to throw those passes,” Love said. “There’s always like I said a handful of plays that might not come off or be in the exact spot that you wanted it to or the throw might be a little bit off. So, that’s where you’ve just got to try to be at your best every play, be consistent and accurate as possible.” Passing fancy Green Bay’s pass defense has been picked apart the last two weeks. First, it was torched by Tua Tagovailoa and the Dolphins in a Packers win. Next, it allowed Jared Goff to complete his final 13 passes as the Lions rallied to victory. It won’t get any easier this week. Smith is second in the NFL in attempts, completions and passing yards and is fifth in completion percentage. “It’s been a remarkable turnaround for him in terms of just where he started,” Packers coach Matt LaFleur said. “It’s not always where you start, but where you finish. And it tells me a lot about the person in terms of his resiliency and ability to fight through some adversity. He’s a dangerous quarterback.” The potential return of former All-Pro cornerback Jaire Alexander (knee) could help the Packers. Fashion forward Will the Packers break out their head-to-toe white uniforms? The last time Green Bay wore the winter white look was in a 24-22 win over Houston in October. The Packers asked fans to . As for the Seahawks, they'll be sporting their “Action Green” uniforms. Metcalf is a fan. “I would say this about the Action Green, I love them personally in my opinion, but the big guys hate them. I don’t know why, don’t ask me," he said. “Hopefully, the Packers wear all white, so it’ll be a fun-looking game.” ___ AP NFL: Anne M. Peterson, The Associated Press
Rams claim '23 1st-round CB Forbes off waivers
The company filed a settlement agreement with the Minnesota Public Utilities Commission reached with intervenors on its 2023 rate case MINNEAPOLIS , Nov. 25, 2024 /PRNewswire/ -- Today, CenterPoint Energy filed a settlement agreement with the Minnesota Public Utilities Commission (Commission) for its rate case submitted in November 2023 , to adjust natural gas distribution service rates in 2024 and 2025. The company reached a settlement agreement with all intervening parties including: Minnesota Department of Commerce, Minnesota Office of Attorney General – Residential Utilities Division, Citizens Utility Board of Minnesota , International Union of Operating Engineers Local 49, LIUNA of Minnesota and North Dakota , and Suburban Rate Authority. If approved by the Commission, CenterPoint's rate adjustment will enable the company to: Continue to maintain the safety, resiliency and integrity of its natural gas distribution system to benefit the company's more than 920,000 customers in over 260 local Minnesota communities. Continue to support the advancement of low- and zero-carbon technologies, including recovering certain costs for the company's innovation plan approved in July 2024 by the Commission under Minnesota's Natural Gas Innovation Act for investments in innovative technologies and low- and zero-carbon energy resources. Conduct infrastructure projects to replace or upgrade existing pipelines, provide safe and reliable service, comply with federal pipeline regulations and relocate facilities to enable projects by government agencies such as roads, bridges, drainage and other infrastructure. Accommodate the increased investments to operate, maintain and deliver natural gas through the company's distribution system. "From the outset, we were determined to use a collaborative approach with state agencies and all intervenors to reach a settlement agreement that worked for all parties. This agreement prioritizes the safety, reliability and resiliency of the energy system for the benefit of our customers and communities throughout Minnesota ," said Brad Steber , CenterPoint's Vice President of Minnesota Gas. "The agreement meaningfully plans for current and anticipated near-term future investments to continue to serve our customers' needs for readily available energy resources. These proposed investments will enhance our ability to deliver energy when customers need it most to help them withstand the coldest days of winter and to keep them safe and warm." The Commission will review and decide upon the filed settlement agreement. A decision is expected in 2025. Meaningful investments in the company's natural gas system A rate case is a forward-looking proposal to plan for the continued needs of customers for energy service. CenterPoint plans to continue to make investments in the safety and resiliency of the company's natural gas distribution system to benefit its customers including: Replacing natural gas lines using modern construction methods and materials. Relocating natural gas meters inside residential customer's homes to outside for improved access in case of an emergency and for enhanced customer safety. Deploying smart natural gas meters for residential customers, which have enhanced safety and communications features. Using methane detection vehicles that have a higher level of detection capability to monitor methane emissions and more efficiently conduct leak detection operations, allowing for faster mitigation and repair of natural gas leaks. Leveraging vacuum-like technology, also known as cross-compression, during repair, replacement and inspection of a natural gas line to help prevent natural gas from going into the air. Instead, the natural gas is temporarily stored or placed in another segment of natural gas line. Rate adjustment proposal As identified in the proposed settlement agreement, CenterPoint is requesting adjustments to the delivery charge, or the cost to deliver natural gas. The delivery charge accounts for approximately 50% of a typical residential customer's monthly bill. The remaining approximately 50% of a customer's bill is the cost of natural gas which is passed through at cost. CenterPoint does not profit from the overall cost of natural gas. The requested increase is approximately 4.7% or $60.8 million for 2024 and approximately 3.1% or $42.7 million for 2025. The requested increase will add $2.70 to the average residential customer's monthly bill in 2024 and an additional $1.27 to an average residential customer's monthly bill in 2025. While the rate case is under consideration, interim rates are in effect. Interim rates started with the January 2024 billing cycle and added approximately $4 per month to the average residential bill. It is anticipated that interim rates for 2025 would begin with the January 2025 billing cycle and be approximately $2 more per month for an average residential customer's bill as the Commission reviews the settlement agreement. Interim rates are applied as an equal percentage across all customer types. After final rates have been approved by the Commission, and if interim rates are set higher than final approved rates, CenterPoint will calculate a refund to customers for the difference in interim rates and final rates. The refund will be based on actual customer usage while interim rates were in effect, including interest, and will be issued as a credit on a monthly bill. CenterPoint offers various programs, tools and tips to help customers manage their bills and save energy. The company encourages those facing hardship to call CenterPoint to find out about payment arrangements and be referred to resources that may be available. To learn more, call 800-245-2377 between 7 a.m. and 7 p.m. , Monday-Friday or visit CenterPointEnergy.com/PaymentAssistance . More details about the rate case can be found at CenterPointEnergy.com/RateCase . About CenterPoint Energy, Inc. As the only investor-owned electric and gas utility based in Texas , CenterPoint Energy, Inc. (NYSE: CNP ) is an energy delivery company with electric transmission and distribution, power generation and natural gas distribution operations that serve more than 7 million metered customers in Indiana , Louisiana , Minnesota , Mississippi , Ohio and Texas . With approximately 9,000 employees, CenterPoint Energy and its predecessor companies have been in business for more than 150 years. For more information, visit CenterPointEnergy.com . Forward-looking statements This news release includes forward-looking statements within the meaning of the Private Securities Litigation Reform Act of 1995. When used in this news release, the words "anticipate," "believe," "continue," "could," "estimate," "expect," "forecast," "goal," "intend," "may," "objective," "plan," "potential," "predict," "projection," "should," "target," "will" or other similar words are intended to identify forward-looking statements. These forward-looking statements are based upon assumptions of management which are believed to be reasonable at the time made and are subject to significant risks and uncertainties. Actual events and results may differ materially from those expressed or implied by these forward-looking statements. Any statements in this news release regarding future events, such as approval by the Commission of the settlement agreement and timing thereof, the anticipated benefits of the rate adjustment, investments in the company's natural gas system and the anticipated benefits thereof, the amount and expected impact to customer's bills, and any other statements that are not historical facts are forward-looking statements. Each forward-looking statement contained in this news release speaks only as of the date of this release. Important factors that could cause actual results to differ materially from those indicated by the provided forward-looking information include risks and uncertainties relating to: (1) CenterPoint Energy's business strategies and strategic initiatives; (2) financial market conditions; (3) general economic conditions; (4) the timing and impact of future regulatory and legislative decisions; and (5) other factors, risks and uncertainties discussed in CenterPoint Energy's Annual Report on Form 10-K for the fiscal year ended December 31, 2023 and CenterPoint's Quarterly Report on Form 10-Q for the quarters ended March 31, 2024 , June 30, 2024 , and September 30, 2024 and other reports CenterPoint Energy or its subsidiaries may file from time to time with the Securities and Exchange Commission. For more information, contact Communications [email protected] SOURCE CenterPoint Energy, IncDAKAR, Senegal (AP) — Niger's ruling junta suspended the BBC for three months over the broadcaster's coverage of an extremist attack that allegedly killed dozens of Nigerien soldiers and civilians, authorities said Thursday. “BBC broadcasts false information aimed at destabilizing social calm and undermining the troops' morale,” communications minister Raliou Sidi Mohamed said in letters to radio stations that rebroadcast BBC content. Mohamed asked the stations to suspend BBC's programs “with immediate effect.” The BBC said it had no comment on the suspension. Popular BBC programs, including those in Hausa — the most-spoken language in Niger — are broadcast in the Central African country through local radio partners to reach a large audience across the region. The British broadcaster had reported on its website in Hausa on Wednesday that gunmen had killed more than 90 Nigerien soldiers and more than 40 civilians in two villages near the border with Burkina Faso. The French broadcaster Radio France International, also known as RFI, also reported on the attack, calling it a jihadi attack and citing the same death toll. Niger's authorities denied that an attack happened in the area in a statement read on state television and said it would file a complain against RFI for “incitement to genocide.” Niger, along with its neighbors Burkina Faso and Mali, has for over a decade battled an insurgency fought by jihadi groups, including some allied with al-Qaida and the Islamic State group. Following military coups in all three nations in recent years, the ruling juntas have expelled French forces and turned to Russia’s mercenary units for security assistance. But the security situation in the Sahel has worsened since the juntas took power, analysts say, with a record number of attacks and civilians killed both by Islamic militants and government forces. Meanwhile, the ruling juntas have cracked down on political dissent and journalists . Earlier this year, Malian authorities banned the media from reporting on the activities of political parties and associations. Burkina Faso suspended the BBC and Voice of America radio stations for their coverage of a mass killing of civilians carried out by the country’s armed forces. In August 2023, Niger banned French broadcasters France 24 and RFI, a month after its military rulers took power in a coup. “Generally speaking, the three juntas censor the media as soon as the security situation in the country is addressed in an unpleasant manner or when abuses are revealed,” Sadibou Marong, head of the sub-Saharan Africa office of Reporters Without Borders, told The Associated Press in September. “Finding reliable and neutral information on government activities has become extremely complex, as has covering security situation in these countries,” Marong added.ENGLEWOOD, Colo. — John Elway says any remorse over bypassing Josh Allen in the 2018 NFL draft is quickly dissipating with rookie Bo Nix's rapid rise, suggesting the Denver Broncos have finally found their next franchise quarterback. Elway said Nix, the sixth passer selected in April's draft, is an ideal fit in Denver with coach Sean Payton navigating his transition to the pros and Vance Joseph's defense serving as a pressure release valve for the former Oregon QB. "We've seen the progression of Bo in continuing to get better and better each week and Sean giving him more each week and trusting him more and more to where last week we saw his best game of the year," Elway said in a nod to Nix's first game with 300 yards and four touchdown throws in a rout of Atlanta. For that performance, Nix earned his second straight NFL Rookie of the Week honor along with the AFC Offensive Player of the Week award. "I think the sky's the limit," Elway said, "and that's just going to continue to get better and better." In a wide-ranging interview with The Associated Press, Elway also touted former coach Mike Shanahan's Hall of Fame credentials, spoke about the future of University of Colorado star and Heisman favorite Travis Hunter and discussed his ongoing bout with a chronic hand condition. Elway spent the last half of his decade as the Broncos' GM in a futile search for a worthy successor to Peyton Manning, a pursuit that continued as he transitioned into a two-year consultant role that ended after the 2022 season. "You have all these young quarterbacks and you look at the ones that make it and the ones that don't and it's so important to have the right system and a coach that really knows how to tutelage quarterbacks, and Sean's really good at that," Elway said. "I think the combination of Bo's maturity, having started 61 games in college, his athletic ability and his knowledge of the game has been such a tremendous help for him,'" Elway added. "But also Vance Joseph's done a heck of a job on the defensive side to where all that pressure's not being put on Bo and the offense to score all the time." Payton and his staff have methodically expanded Nix's repertoire and incorporated his speed into their blueprints. Elway lauded them for "what they're doing offensively and how they're breaking Bo into the NFL because it's a huge jump and I think patience is something that goes a long way in the NFL when it comes down to quarterbacks." Elway said he hopes to sit down with Nix at some point when things slow down for the rookie. Nix, whose six wins are one more than Elway had as a rookie, said he looks forward to meeting the man who won two Super Bowls during his Hall of Fame playing career and another from the front office. "He's a legend not only here for this organization, but for the entire NFL," Nix said, adding, "most guys, they would love to have a chat with John Elway, just pick his brain. It's just awesome that I'm even in that situation." Orange Crush linebacker Randy Gradishar joined Elway in the Pro Football Hall of Fame this year, something Elway called "way, way overdue." Elway suggested it's also long past time for the Hall to honor Shanahan, who won back-to-back Super Bowls in Denver with Elway at QB and whose footprint you see every weekend in the NFL because of his expansive coaching tree. Elway called University of Colorado stars Travis Hunter and Shedeur Sanders "both great athletes." He said he really hopes Sanders gets drafted by a team that will bring him along like the Broncos have done with Nix, and he sees Hunter being able to play both ways in the pros — but not full time. Elway said he thinks Hunter will be primarily a corner in the NFL but with significant contributions on offense: "He's great at both. He's got great instincts, and that's what you need at corner." It's been five years since Elway announced he was dealing with Dupuytren's contracture, a chronic condition that typically appears after age 40 and causes one or more fingers to permanently bend toward the palm. Elway's ring fingers on both hands were originally affected and he said now the middle finger on his right hand is starting to pull forward. So, he'll get another injection of a drug called Xiaflex, which is the only FDA-approved non-surgical treatment, one that he's endorsing in an awareness campaign for the chronic condition that affects 17 million Americans. The condition can make it difficult to do everyday tasks such as shaking hands or picking up a coffee mug. Elway said what bothered him most was "I couldn't pick up a football and I could not imagine not being able to put my hand around a football." Get local news delivered to your inbox!
European markets are poised to open lower Friday as investors digest the European Central Bank's latest rate cut decision, in what was a busy day for monetary policy in the previous session. The FTSE 100 was seen opening 22 points lower at 8,287, Germany's DAX was down 35 points at 20,391, France's CAC was 21 points lower at 7,400 and Italy's FTSE MIB down 38 points at 34,799, according to IG data. > 24/7 San Diego news stream: Watch NBC 7 free wherever you are The European Central Bank on Thursday cut interest rates by 25 basis points in its fourth trim this year, and signaled the possibility of more reductions in 2025. The Swiss National Bank also cut rates by a larger than anticipated 50 basis points, while Denmark's central bank announced a 25 basis point reduction. Central bank watchers are now turning their attention to next week and rate decisions from the U.S. Federal Reserve and the Bank of England. On Friday, investors will keep an eye on France's latest inflation print and three-month gross domestic product data from the U.K. U.K. consumer confidence data is also due. There are no corporate earnings. Money Report New AI winners beyond Big Tech are set to emerge, UK fund manager predicts Europe can make up the Ukraine funding shortfall if the U.S. withdraws, analysts say Asia-Pacific markets mostly fell overnight, led by losses in China after Beijing affirmed its recent policy shifts and stressed plans to boost growth after a high-profile meeting Thursday. U.S. futures lost steam following a losing session on Wall Street . CNBC Pro: Want to cash in on the emerging market boom? Here are 2 of HSBC's 'best stock ideas' with over 50% upside potential A pick-up in consumer demand, improving economic growth and attractive stock market valuations have contributed to the popularity of emerging markets (EM) this year. HSBC is sticking to its "cautiously constructive" stance on them in 2025, as U.S. President-elect Donald Trump prepares to return to office in January. "There is no sugar coating that tariffs and a strong USD are downside risks," the investment bank's analysts said, as they revealed their best stock ideas. Among their picks were two lesser-known names, both with over 50% upside potential. CNBC Pro subscribers can read more here. — Amala Balakrishner European markets: Here are the opening calls European markets are poised to open lower Friday as investors digest the European Central Bank's latest rate cut decision, in what was a busy day for monetary policy during the previous session. The FTSE 100 was seen opening 22 points lower at 8,287, Germany's DAX was down 35 points at 20,391, France's CAC was 21 points lower at 7,400 and Italy's FTSE MIB down 38 points at 34,799, according to IG data. — Karen Gilchrist Also on CNBC Dow futures are little changed after index posts longest losing streak since April: Live updates Inflation reckoning coming in 2025? Investors continue to ignore stubborn readings Texas House introduces bill to establish a strategic bitcoin reserve
Canada's anti-money laundering agency is looking to introduce a system that gives financial institutions and other businesses real-time feedback through scorecards, two sources said, as the regulator ramps up initiatives to tackle financial crime. The proposed reporting system follows stricter financial crime penalties in Canada announced earlier this week after the country's No. 2 bank TD was ordered to pay a record US$3 billion fine and pleaded guilty in a historic U.S. money laundering case in October. The regulator, Financial Transactions and Reports Analysis Centre of Canada (FINTRAC), is looking at technology, including AI, to deliver the scorecard and is expected to introduce it next year, one source said. FINTRAC aims to give more real-time feedback to reporting entities to improve collaboration across the industry, another source said. Canada's federal government made new proposals in its fall economic statement on Monday to give the regulator more powers, including increasing financial penalties by as much as 40 times and issuing compliance orders. U.S. regulators' probe into TD Bank resulted in calls for stronger regulations in Canada. In pleading guilty, TD admitted former employees helped criminals launder millions of dollars. Canadian banks TD, Royal Bank of Canada and CIBC have been fined by FINTRAC in the past two years for failing to comply with money laundering and terrorist financing rules. Canada faces growing pressure to tackle financial crime ahead of a review by the Financial Action Task Force, an intergovernmental body made of up 40 international members. (Reporting by Nivedita Balu in Toronto; Editing by Caroline Stauffer and Hugh Lawson)
PETALING JAYA: Two factors appear to be on the top of most investors’ minds pertaining to the local market at the moment. These are whether the key 1,600-point support level on the benchmark FBM KLCI would be able to hold, and if net buying by foreign investors would soon return to the local bourse. It is notable that after a period of strong sustained buying by foreign investors for most of the year up till the third quarter or so, this group of investors have just turned into net sellers in the year-to-date (y-t-d) period as of the end of last week. The strong net buying by foreign investors that was seen earlier in the year was unable to sustain following the recent re-election of Donald Trump as the incoming US president, who will be installed on Jan 20. “The trend of foreign net selling started following Trump’s re-election and this continues until today. “From an earlier figure of net foreign inflows of RM1.5bil at its y-t-d peak, we are now recording about RM1.6bil of net foreign outflows in the y-t-d period,” chief executive officer and founder of Tradeview Capital Ng Zhu Hann told StarBiz. “Trump’s recent rhetoric, which points to a stronger US dollar, has seen funds leaving emerging markets and this includes Malaysia back to the United States,” Ng added. The FBM KLCI climbed higher at its close yesterday by 11.48 points or 0.72% to 1,606.96. Gainers outnumbered losers 683 to 432 while 483 counters remained unchanged. Some 3.32 billion shares worth RM3.31bil changed hands. Fund outflows were also apparent in China, for example, as Bloomberg reported yesterday that exchange-traded funds (ETFs) that track Chinese stocks had seen record outflows last month. The US$7.2bil iShares China Large-Cap ETF saw about US$2.3bil in outflows last month, while investors pulled more than US$1bil from the KraneShares CSI China Internet Fund – the largest monthly redemption for both funds on record. Back home, Ng said the market would require broad-based buying support from all parties including foreign investors and retailers if the FBM KLCI is to be supported above 1,600 points in the longer term. “As of now, we are seeing net outflows by retailers and the only one supporting are the local institutions that have recorded some RM6bil of net buying this year. “Local funds are supporting the market,” Ng said. Tradeview Capital’s year-end target for the FBM KLCI is 1,650. “We have not revised this target. We think the market will be able to hold above this level until the end of this year from ample support by local institutions and some return in foreign investors. “Coupled with this is that our market valuations here are still reasonable,” Ng noted. He said key factors to look out for in the near term that would potentially affect market movements include any further interest rate cuts before Christmas and any major actions by other key central banks. “For the Bank of Japan – there is a likelihood it will raise its interest rates to 0.5% from 0.25%, which would be the biggest hike since 2008 for Japan. “This could mean big outflows of funds if it happens. “But if the United States continues its cut and Japan maintains there could be some inflows into emerging markets,” he said. Meanwhile, Fortress Capital Asset Management’s founder and chief executive officer Datuk Thomas Yong said some foreign investments would usually have a short-term investment horizon. “However, foreign participation remains small compared to local institutional funds. Foreign shareholding is currently below 20% and a large part of these remaining holdings are strategic investments with a longer-term investment horizon,” Yong said. “Hence, if further values emerge from any foreign selldown, local participation will absorb some of this selling. “As we move towards the year-end festive season, institutional market activities will likely slow down,” Yong noted. Moving forward, he expects investors will closely monitor political developments in the United States and headline announcements apart from business fundamentals. “Historically, the FBM KLCI usually sees positive performance in the final month of the year,” Yong added. Meanwhile, CIMB Research noted in its report that even as they net sold the broader market, foreign investors were the top net buyers in property sector stocks last week with Sime Darby Property Bhd , Tanco Holdings Bhd and YNH Property Bhd as their top net buy stocks. “Foreign investors continued as net buyers in the sector for the 12th straight week, but reduced their net buy value by 58% from the previous week to RM18.5mil,” it said. It also pointed out that real estate investment trusts (REITs) were foreign investors’ second-largest net buy sector last week, with IGB-REIT, Pavilion-REIT and Sunway-REIT as their top net buy stocks in this segment. “Foreign investors remained net buyers for the fifth week, but their net buy value fell slightly to RM4.7mil,” it added.
Congressional schedule for 2025 is set with Senate releasing its calendar
Best of Central Valley Business Awards: Professional services and business support winners, an NBA All-Star and a key player for the , has recently been at the center of trade rumors that have sparked considerable discussion among fans and analysts alike. At 35 years old, , known for his scoring ability, defensive prowess, and leadership on and off the court. However, reports surfaced ahead of the February 6 deadline, with interest in teams like the , , , and . In response to these swirling rumors, , stating unequivocally that the franchise has no plans to trade Butler. In a statement released on December 26, Riley emphasized, " " This declaration aims to quell the distractions that have arisen from the speculation surrounding Riley denies trade rumors surrounding Butler Butler's recent absence from the lineup has fueled further discussions about his status. He was not with the team during their trip to Orlando for a game . While initially attributed to an ankle injury sustained in a loss to the Oklahoma City Thunder on December 20, the Heat later clarified that . This situation has led to a mix of concern and curiosity regarding his commitment to the team, especially as he navigates the challenges of recovery and the trade rumors. Heat head coach also expressed his support for Butler during a morning shootaround, reinforcing the team's desire to keep him. " ," Spoelstra stated. He acknowledged the difficulties posed by external noise, saying, " ." Currently, Butler is under a , with a $52 million player option that he reportedly intends to decline As the Heat sit sixth in the Eastern Conference standings with a 14-13 record, the organization is clearly focused on maintaining its core, with moving forward.Arkansas receiver Andrew Armstrong said Tuesday that he is entering the NFL Draft. Later in the day, a school spokesman told reporters that Armstrong will skip the Razorbacks' bowl game. The destination isn't yet known. Armstrong led the Southeastern Conference in both receptions (78) and receiving yards (1,140) but caught just one touchdown in 11 games this season. His catches and yardage were both second-most in Arkansas history behind Cobi Hamilton, who had 90 receptions for 1,335 yards in 2012. "It's been a journey for the books and I wouldn't trade it for anything because it has made me into the man I am today," Armstrong said of his Razorbacks tenure in a social media post. "... I will never forget all the moments that were shared here in Fayetteville." Armstrong played two seasons at Texas A&M-Commerce before transferring to Arkansas ahead of the 2023 season. In two seasons with the Razorbacks, he caught 134 passes for 1,904 yards and six scores. --Field Level MediaSchmidt determined to help GOP deliver
Support grows for Blake Lively over smear campaign claim
Merry Christmas: N.H. Getting $191 Million for Universal BroadbandPhiladelphia Eagles head coach Nick Sirianni reportedly made amends for his postgame altercation with Washington Commanders tight end Zach Ertz in Week 16. On Thursday, ESPN's Tim McManus reported Sirianni recently contacted Ertz to apologize. McManus added Eagles head of security Dom DiSandro separated them before the situation escalated. JP Finlay of WRC-TV in Washington also shared a brief clip of their spat on his X account. It appears Sirianni said something that offended Ertz. Here’s a little bit of video from Zach Ertz and Nick Sirianni from postgame. Looks pretty clear Ertz took offense to something Sirianni said. (Video from @dckerNBC4 ) pic.twitter.com/vykAFGAB38 According to Jeff McLane of The Philadelphia Inquirer , " Their brief dust-up saw Ertz take exception to a comment Sirianni made about his performance in the game." Ertz — who was returning from a concussion — only had one reception for 12 yards on two targets in the 36-33 win over the Eagles. "I'll just keep all of my conversations with any guys private," Sirianni said Thursday, per McManus. "I've got a lot of respect for Zach. Great football player, great person to be around. I really got a lot of respect for Zach and all the good things that he's done and my relationship with him." Ertz played for Philadelphia from 2013-21, making three Pro Bowls and catching 38 touchdowns. However, he doesn't have much history with Sirianni. In Sirianni's first season as Eagles HC, Philadelphia traded Ertz to the Arizona Cardinals after six games. Regardless, apologizing to Ertz is the right move, and it shows the coach realizes he must better control his emotions. Fox cameras caught Sirianni jawing with fans at the end of a 20-16 Week 6 home victory over the Cleveland Browns. His antics could distract a squad with Super Bowl aspirations. The Eagles (12-3) are second in the NFC behind the Detroit Lions (13-2). They can clinch the NFC East with a home win over the Dallas Cowboys (7-8) on Sunday at 1 p.m. ET. Philadelphia needs Sirianni to keep his cool to make a deep postseason run.Eworgent App Review 2024: Scam or Legit Crypto Trading Platform? – UK Facts!
LA JOLLA, Calif., Dec. 05, 2024 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) -- MediciNova, Inc., a biopharmaceutical company traded on the NASDAQ Global Market (NASDAQ:MNOV) and the Standard Market of the Tokyo Stock Exchange (Code Number: 4875), today announces the study update and interim analysis results from the Company's COMBAT-ALS Phase 2b/3 clinical trial of MN-166 (ibudilast) in Amyotrophic Lateral Sclerosis (ALS) will be presented at the 35 th International Symposium on ALS/MND held December 6-8, 2024 in Montreal, Canada. The highlights of the presentation, titled, " COMBAT-ALS Phase 2b/3 Trial of MN-166 (Ibudilast) in ALS: Trial Update and Interim Analysis Results” ( Abstract # 302), include: About MN-166 (ibudilast) MN-166 (ibudilast) is a small molecule compound that inhibits phosphodiesterase type-4 (PDE4) and inflammatory cytokines, including macrophage migration inhibitory factor (MIF). It is in late-stage clinical development for the treatment of neurodegenerative diseases such as ALS (amyotrophic lateral sclerosis), progressive MS (multiple sclerosis), and DCM (degenerative cervical myelopathy); and is also in development for glioblastoma, Long COVID, CIPN (chemotherapy-induced peripheral neuropathy), and substance use disorder. In addition, MN-166 (ibudilast) was evaluated in patients that are at risk for developing acute respiratory distress syndrome (ARDS). About MediciNova MediciNova, Inc. is a clinical-stage biopharmaceutical company developing a broad late-stage pipeline of novel small molecule therapies for inflammatory, fibrotic, and neurodegenerative diseases. Based on two compounds, MN-166 (ibudilast) and MN-001 (tipelukast), with multiple mechanisms of action and strong safety profiles, MediciNova has 11 programs in clinical development. MediciNova's lead asset, MN-166 (ibudilast), is currently in Phase 3 for amyotrophic lateral sclerosis (ALS) and degenerative cervical myelopathy (DCM) and is Phase 3-ready for progressive multiple sclerosis (MS). MN-166 (ibudilast) is also being evaluated in Phase 2 trials in Long COVID and substance dependence. MN-001 (tipelukast) was evaluated in a Phase 2 trial in idiopathic pulmonary fibrosis (IPF) and a second Phase 2 trial in non-alcoholic fatty liver disease (NAFLD) is ongoing. MediciNova has a strong track record of securing investigator-sponsored clinical trials funded through government grants. Statements in this press release that are not historical in nature constitute forward-looking statements within the meaning of the safe harbor provisions of the Private Securities Litigation Reform Act of 1995. These forward-looking statements include, without limitation, statements regarding the future development and efficacy of MN-166, MN-001, MN-221, and MN-029. These forward-looking statements may be preceded by, followed by, or otherwise include the words "believes," "expects," "anticipates," "intends," "estimates," "projects," "can," "could," "may," "will," "would," "considering,” "planning” or similar expressions. These forward-looking statements involve a number of risks and uncertainties that may cause actual results or events to differ materially from those expressed or implied by such forward-looking statements. Factors that may cause actual results or events to differ materially from those expressed or implied by these forward-looking statements include, but are not limited to, risks of obtaining future partner or grant funding for development of MN-166, MN-001, MN-221, and MN-029 and risks of raising sufficient capital when needed to fund MediciNova's operations and contribution to clinical development, risks and uncertainties inherent in clinical trials, including the potential cost, expected timing and risks associated with clinical trials designed to meet FDA guidance and the viability of further development considering these factors, product development and commercialization risks, the uncertainty of whether the results of clinical trials will be predictive of results in later stages of product development, the risk of delays or failure to obtain or maintain regulatory approval, risks associated with the reliance on third parties to sponsor and fund clinical trials, risks regarding intellectual property rights in product candidates and the ability to defend and enforce such intellectual property rights, the risk of failure of the third parties upon whom MediciNova relies to conduct its clinical trials and manufacture its product candidates to perform as expected, the risk of increased cost and delays due to delays in the commencement, enrollment, completion or analysis of clinical trials or significant issues regarding the adequacy of clinical trial designs or the execution of clinical trials, and the timing of expected filings with the regulatory authorities, MediciNova's collaborations with third parties, the availability of funds to complete product development plans and MediciNova's ability to obtain third party funding for programs and raise sufficient capital when needed, and the other risks and uncertainties described in MediciNova's filings with the Securities and Exchange Commission, including its annual report on Form 10-K for the year ended December 31, 2023 and its subsequent periodic reports on Form 10-Q and current reports on Form 8-K. Undue reliance should not be placed on these forward-looking statements, which speak only as of the date hereof. MediciNova disclaims any intent or obligation to revise or update these forward-looking statements. INVESTOR CONTACT : David H. Crean, Ph.D. Chief Business Officer MediciNova, Inc [email protected]
DONALD Trump, never one to mince words, has set his sights on the BRICS coalition -- an alliance of emerging economies spearheaded by China, Brazil, India and Russia. The US president-elect declared on Truth Social that BRICS nations would face 100 percent tariffs if they dared to pursue a unified currency or back alternatives to the US dollar. "The idea that BRICS countries are trying to move away from the dollar while we stand by and watch is over ," Trump proclaimed. He called for an unequivocal commitment to the dollar's supremacy, warning that defiance could mean a swift exit from the lucrative US market. BRICS, initially composed of Brazil, Russia, India, China and South Africa, expanded this year to include Iran, the UAE, Ethiopia and Egypt. With over 30 additional countries expressing interest, the bloc is drawing global attention. Brazil's President Luiz Inácio Lula da Silva even floated the idea of a South American common currency in 2023 to lessen dependence on the dollar. While the BRICS currency concept might sound bold, its reality is complicated. Economic disparities and political rivalries within the bloc make a unified currency unlikely anytime soon. Yet, the group's ability to use their currencies and banking systems to sidestep Western sanctions, especially for nations like Russia and Iran, poses a potential challenge to dollar hegemony. Trump's fiery rhetoric reflects Washington's unease as BRICS evolves. Whether this translates to tangible action or bluster remains to be seen, but the global stakes are undeniably high. Trump's ultimatum to the BRICS came just days after pledging steep tariff increases on imports from Mexico, Canada and China. Trump claims these dramatic measures, set to take effect on his first day in office, are a direct response to illegal immigration and the flow of "crime and drugs" across the border. Donald Trump has once again taken his signature approach to international relations: the art of the economic ultimatum. In his latest fiery declaration, Trump announced plans for sweeping tariff hikes on goods from Mexico, Canada, and China, vowing to implement these changes on his first day back in office. His reasoning? A self-proclaimed crusade against illegal immigration, crime, and the relentless flow of drugs across US borders. Never one to shy away from bold proclamations, Trump framed the tariffs as a direct retaliation against nations he claims have turned a blind eye to the chaos spilling into America. "We're not going to stand by while our borders are overrun and our economy undermined," Trump asserted, setting the stage for a policy that would undoubtedly rattle global supply chains and provoke economic tensions with key trading partners. Critics, of course, were quick to point out the potential fallout. Such tariff hikes could escalate prices for American consumers, disrupt trade agreements, and strain relations with allies who have long been essential to the US economy. Yet, in true Trump fashion, the former president seems unfazed, relying on his populist mantra that tough rhetoric and aggressive measures are what's needed to protect American sovereignty. Register to read this story and more for free . Signing up for an account helps us improve your browsing experience. OR See our subscription options.