The Israeli Justice Ministry made the announcement in a message late on Thursday, saying the investigation would focus on the findings of a recent report by the Uvda investigative programme into Sara Netanyahu. The programme uncovered a trove of WhatsApp messages in which Mrs Netanyahu appears to instruct a former aide to organise protests against political opponents and to intimidate Hadas Klein, a key witness in the trial. The announcement did not mention Mrs Netanyahu by name and the Justice Ministry declined further comment. Earlier on Thursday, Mr Netanyahu blasted the Uvda report as “lies”. It is the latest in a long line of legal troubles for the Netanyahus, highlighted by the PM’s ongoing corruption trial. Mr Netanyahu is charged with fraud, breach of trust and accepting bribes in a series of cases alleging he exchanged favours with powerful media moguls and wealthy associates. He denies the charges and says he is the victim of a “witch hunt” by overzealous prosecutors, police and the media.A young lady has shared a heartwarming video showing her mother's genuine display of love and affection for her In a video, she captured the woman standing at a park and waiting patiently for the taxi she boarded to leave Social media users who came across the emotional video on TikTok shared their similar experiences in the comments CHECK OUT: Education is Your Right! Don’t Let Social Norms Hold You Back. Learn Online with LEGIT. Enroll Now! A video confirming the love and devotion of a mother for her child has warmed the hearts of many online. The clip, which has since gone viral, showed a mother standing patiently at a park, waiting for her daughter's taxi to depart before leaving herself. Woman's love for daughter melts hearts The heartwarming video was shared by the daughter, identified by the handle @ lwethuu on TikTok . PAY ATTENTION: Follow us on Instagram - get the most important news directly in your favourite app! In the accompanying caption , she expressed her deep affection for her mother and gushed over her thoughtful gestures. Read also Lady who forcefully took little girl away from her mum shares her epic reaction in video The daughter revealed that her mother had even packed her snacks, a small but amazing act that spoke volumes about their relationship. "POV: Your mum only leaves after your taxi leaves. I just love my mum guys. She packed me snacks," she captioned the video. Reactions as mum waits for daughter at park The video touched many TikTok users who took to the comments section to share their experiences of maternal love and devotion. Starr said: "For me it's my dad, he took the taxi driver's numbers and gave him money for cold drink to drive carefully." @Ellenkie reacted: "My dad does this. He holds my hand when we cross the street, I'm 35. @Nana said: "My dad still licks his finger and remove anything weird from my face in front of my child, I am 24." @nangoku_ said: "My mom also waited for my taxi to leave when i was leaving home for res then she passed on few weeks after that she was sooo happy and I love that that was my last memory of her." Read also Video of old Nigerian couple fighting at home trends online, people react @JJ said: "This is so sweet. And all the stories of people in the comments with similar experiences. Merry Christmas, everyone." @leshvee added: "Mothers though. Mine went with me to my first interview she waited outside, the process was long but girl didn't mind she waited those hours and it was so hot." Mum waits for son's bus to leave Meanwhile, Legit.ng previously reported that a Nigerian man posted a touching video showing the moment his mother accompanied him to a public bus station. After getting to the station, the woman watched him enter a bus and refused to leave until the bus got filled with passengers. PAY ATTENTION: Сheck out news that is picked exactly for YOU ➡️ find the “Recommended for you” block on the home page and enjoy! Source: Legit.ng
NEW YORK , Dec. 10, 2024 /PRNewswire/ -- Report on how AI is driving market transformation - The global wasabi market size is estimated to grow by USD 466.1 million from 2024-2028, according to Technavio. The market is estimated to grow at a CAGR of 10.68% during the forecast period. Rising awareness about health benefits of wasabi is driving market growth, with a trend towards rising sales of wasabi online. However, side effects on overuse of wasabi poses a challenge. Key market players include Beaverton Foods Inc., Clearspring Ltd., Connors Greens LLC, Eden Foods Inc., Half Moon Bay Wasabi Co., J.R. Kelly Co., Kelchner Food Products, Kikkoman Sales USA Inc., KINJIRUSHI Co. Ltd., McCormick and Co. Inc., Mountain View Wasabi, MUSO Co., Ltd., Oregon Coast Wasabi, Pacific Coast Wasabi Ltd., Real Wasabi LLC, S and B Foods Inc., Shima Wasabi, Tamaruya Honten Co. Ltd., TasFoods Ltd., The Good Bean Inc., The Wasabi Co., and ZHUHAI KINGZEST FOOD CO. LTD.; Yamasa Corporation; Eden Foods; Wingreens Farms; Wasabi Essentials Ltd.; World Wasabi Inc.. AI-Powered Market Evolution Insights. Our comprehensive market report ready with the latest trends, growth opportunities, and strategic analysis- View Free Sample Report PDF Forecast period 2024-2028 Base Year 2023 Historic Data 2018 - 2022 Segment Covered Type (Sauce and Powder), Application (Food and beverages and Medical and nutraceuticals), and Geography (APAC, North America, Europe, South America, and Middle East and Africa), Product Region Covered APAC, North America, Europe, South America, and Middle East and Africa Key companies profiled Beaverton Foods Inc., Clearspring Ltd., Connors Greens LLC, Eden Foods Inc., Half Moon Bay Wasabi Co., J.R. Kelly Co., Kelchner Food Products, Kikkoman Sales USA Inc., KINJIRUSHI Co. Ltd., McCormick and Co. Inc., Mountain View Wasabi, MUSO Co., Ltd., Oregon Coast Wasabi, Pacific Coast Wasabi Ltd., Real Wasabi LLC, S and B Foods Inc., Shima Wasabi, Tamaruya Honten Co. Ltd., TasFoods Ltd., The Good Bean Inc., The Wasabi Co., and ZHUHAI KINGZEST FOOD CO. LTD.; Yamasa Corporation; Eden Foods; Wingreens Farms; Wasabi Essentials Ltd.; World Wasabi Inc. Key Market Trends Fueling Growth Wasabi, the peppery condiment known for its distinctive taste and nasal tingling sensation, is experiencing in popularity due to increased awareness of its health benefits. The consumption of wasabi extracts and food preparations, such as noodles and soups, is on the rise in both the nutraceutical and medical industries. Wasabi's anti-inflammatory and antimicrobial effects are being studied for their potential in preventing chronic diseases like heart disease, cancer, and diabetes. E-commerce businesses and online shopping platforms are making it easier for consumers to access fresh wasabi in various forms, including sauce, powder, bottles, tubes, and pouches and sachets. The food service industries are also embracing this trend, with sustainable agricultural practices and technology development, such as artificial intelligence, enhancing the production and packaging of wasabi. The rhizome, leaf, and petiole of the Wasabia japonica plant contain bioactive compounds like isothiocyanates, which have antioxidant, antimicrobial, and digestive properties. The gastronomy and pharmaceuticals industries are exploring innovative uses for these compounds, including in the treatment of arthritis and improving gut health. Authenticity and high-quality ingredients are essential in the Japanese cuisine, where wasabi is a staple condiment in restaurants. Cultivation methods and cultural significance are also important considerations, with geographical cultivation areas playing a role in the authenticity and flavor profile of the wasabi. The market for imitation products is growing, but consumers are increasingly demanding real, high-quality wasabi. The e-commerce sector presents a significant opportunity for businesses to boost their profits as more consumers opt for online shopping. Convenience and time savings are key drivers, with customers preferring to pay for purchases using credit or debit cards instead of making time-consuming store visits and standing in queues. This trend has led many companies to target internet-savvy customers and enter the expanding online retail market. The global retail e-commerce sales are projected to reach over USD3.5 trillion in 2020. E-commerce offers consumers a wide selection of food products and reduces operating costs for businesses, making it an attractive business model. Insights on how AI is driving innovation, efficiency, and market growth- Request Sample! Market Challenges Insights into how AI is reshaping industries and driving growth- Download a Sample Report Segment Overview This wasabi market report extensively covers market segmentation by 1.1 Sauce- The wasabi sauce segment holds a significant share in the global wasabi market. Key players in this sector include Mountain View Wasabi, MUSO Co., Ltd., and Oregon Coast Wasabi, known for producing conventional wasabi sauces. American consumers favor wasabi sauce for its ability to enhance flavor without compromising food nutrients. The global palate is expanding, with consumers exploring diverse culinary traditions, potentially driving wasabi market growth. Kikkoman Sales USA , Inc. Recently introduced a creamy textured Wasabi Sauce, adding a spicy twist to regular dishes. Wasabi sauce elevates sandwiches, veggies, steaks, burgers, chicken, fish, salad dressings, and dips. Pasteurized and manufactured in the US, Kikkoman Wasabi Sauce adheres to top quality standards. The rise in social gatherings and dining occasions fuels wasabi sauce consumption, particularly with raw fish dishes like sushi and sashimi, as well as zaru soba, yakiniku, and yakitori. Therefore, the wasabi sauce segment is poised to propel the expansion of the global wasabi market. Download complimentary Sample Report to gain insights into AI's impact on market dynamics, emerging trends, and future opportunities- including forecast (2024-2028) and historic data (2018 - 2022) Research Analysis Wasabi, the Japanese horseradish derived from the Wasabia japonica plant, is gaining increased awareness for its numerous health benefits. Its peppery smell and pungent taste, caused by the presence of allyl isothiocyanate and other isothiocyanate compounds, make it a popular condiment in various food preparations such as noodles, soups, sushi, sashimi, and tempura. The nutraceutical and medical industries have recognized the anti-inflammatory and antimicrobial properties of wasabi extracts. These properties contribute to preventing cancers, treating arthritis, and preventing the growth of harmful bacteria. Wasabi is also rich in vitamins, antioxidants, and digestive properties, making it a valuable addition to a healthy diet. The consumption of wasabi not only enhances the flavor of dishes but also provides numerous health benefits. Its unique properties make it a valuable ingredient in the food industry and beyond, with potential applications in the medical field as well. Market Research Overview Wasabi, the peppery condiment known for its distinctive pungent flavor and nasal tingling sensation, is experiencing in popularity due to increased awareness of its numerous health benefits. Derived from the Wasabia japonica plant, wasabi is more than just a staple condiment in Japanese cuisine. Its rhizome, leaf, and petiole contain bioactive compounds, primarily isothiocyanates, which offer anti-inflammatory, antimicrobial, antioxidant, and digestive properties. The consumption of wasabi in various food preparations, such as noodles and soups, is on the rise, fueled by the nutraceutical and medical industries' interest in its potential health benefits. Wasabi extracts are being explored for their ability to prevent chronic diseases like heart disease, cancer, and diabetes, as well as improve gut health and treat arthritis. E-commerce businesses and online shopping platforms have made it easier for consumers to access fresh wasabi in various forms, including sauce, powder, bottles, tubes, pouches, and sachets. Sustainable agricultural practices and technology development, including artificial intelligence, are also playing a role in ensuring a consistent supply of high-quality wasabi. Despite its cultural significance and authenticity, the market for wasabi is not without challenges, including the prevalence of imitation products and the need for innovative packaging materials to maintain its freshness and potency. The gastronomy and pharmaceutical industries are at the forefront of exploring the full potential of this versatile and health-promoting ingredient. Table of Contents: 1 Executive Summary 2 Market Landscape 3 Market Sizing 4 Historic Market Size 5 Five Forces Analysis 6 Market Segmentation 7 Customer Landscape 8 Geographic Landscape 9 Drivers, Challenges, and Trends 10 Company Landscape 11 Company Analysis 12 Appendix About Technavio Technavio is a leading global technology research and advisory company. Their research and analysis focuses on emerging market trends and provides actionable insights to help businesses identify market opportunities and develop effective strategies to optimize their market positions. With over 500 specialized analysts, Technavio's report library consists of more than 17,000 reports and counting, covering 800 technologies, spanning across 50 countries. Their client base consists of enterprises of all sizes, including more than 100 Fortune 500 companies. This growing client base relies on Technavio's comprehensive coverage, extensive research, and actionable market insights to identify opportunities in existing and potential markets and assess their competitive positions within changing market scenarios. Technavio Research Jesse Maida Media & Marketing Executive US: +1 844 364 1100 UK: +44 203 893 3200 Email: media@technavio.com Website: www.technavio.com/ View original content to download multimedia: https://www.prnewswire.com/news-releases/wasabi-market-to-grow-by-usd-466-1-million-2024-2028-driven-by-rising-health-awareness-and-ai-powered-insights---technavio-302326129.html SOURCE Technavio
Despite General Motors’ recent retreat from its Cruise robotaxi business, the U.S. is on the cusp of a driverless revolution. The autonomous vehicle landscape is changing, and 2024 will be the year of significant commercial feasibility and adoption. Waymo, the self-driving unit of Alphabet, is leading the charge in this sector after having navigated an initial set of challenges. The self-driving car industry experienced some setbacks over the last ten years, from Uber selling its robotaxi business in 2020 after a fatal accident to Ford’s exit from space in 2022 by divesting Argo.AI. In 2023, Cruise ceased operations after investigations of its collision history and license suspension in California. In conclusion, GM’s withdrawal from Cruise was after an enormous investment of $10 billion. Waymo and its competitors are shaping self-driving While Waymo appears to be weathering the storm, competitors include Tesla and Amazon’s Zoox, which are boosting their efforts. The world ride-hailing market would likely surge from about $123 billion in 2024 to $480 billion by 2032; this would be a vast opportunity. Waymo is doing amazingly well lately. The venture began as a 2009 Google project, but this year the company stated it has had over 4 million paid autonomous rides, up from 700,000 in the past year. The service has been available in Phoenix, San Francisco, and Los Angeles, but the firm said it would add similar services in Austin and Atlanta by next year. Meanwhile, Tesla has revealed a prototype called Cybercab, to be launched in 2027, and also unveiled its Robovan. Even though it is still at an early stage, Tesla is still developing its autonomous technology, which the company claims future cars will come without steering wheels or pedals in major markets. Zoox is getting ready to start selling rides in Las Vegas and San Francisco. Its shuttle design is distinct and doesn’t have the usual driving controls. This step speaks to the cutthroat nature of the nascent industry, where firms look to seize enormous market opportunities within regulatory environments and consumer demand. Also, see: Sensex and Nifty Edge Higher Amid Volatile TradingFIRS empowers 60 Southwest youths in livestock farming
No game Wednesday at The Buffalo Bridge Center, 60 Dingens St., off Exit 1 of the I-190, because of the New Year’s Day holiday. Otherwise, the club offers a regular schedule of in-person and online games five days a week, with special games on the weekends, unusually one each month. For more info, visit the Buffalo Bridge Center website or call 716-424-0014. The Bridge Center reminds members that dues for 2025 are $80 and can be paid now, cash or check. Fee for games beginning Jan. 1 will be $8 for members and $12 for non-members. In case of heavy snow, the club abides by what the Buffalo Public Schools do. If the schools close, the club will be closed. Lessons for beginners are being held at the Buffalo Bridge Center from 1 to 3 p.m. Thursdays and 10 a.m. to noon Saturdays. For more information, call Ruth Nawotniak at 716-949-7574 or email ruth2250@outlook.com . Don’t want to clean up the house for kitchen bridge? The Bridge Center also hosts a social game in its lessons room on Tuesday mornings during the regular 10:30 a.m. game. Players can go at their own speed and style. Fee is $5 to cover expenses. In-person games: Tuesdays, 10:30 a.m. For players with fewer than 1,600 points. Simultaneous game for players with fewer than 99 points if there are enough tables. Free lesson at 10. Wednesdays, 10:30 a.m. Open to all players. Simultaneous game for players with fewer than 99 points if there are enough tables. Thursdays, 10:30 a.m. Upgraded to now include players with up to 2,000 points. Simultaneous game for players with fewer than 99 points if there are enough tables. Free lesson at 10. Fridays, 10:30 a.m. Open to all players by pre-registration only. Call 716-424-0014. Virtual games on Bridge Base Online: Mondays, 7 p.m. For players with fewer than 750 points. Wednesdays, 7 p.m. Delaware Wednesday game for players with fewer than 2,000 points. For info on this game, call Ed Harman at 716-480-1666 or email eharmon@roadrunner.com . • • • More access to virtual games on Bridge Base Online is being offered by the Airport Bridge Club, which currently is not holding face-to-face games. It has affiliated with a new group of clubs, the SE Club of Clubs Online Bridge Collective, where most games are $5. For more info, click this link . The Airport Club also continues to be part of the Alliance Bridge Club, which offers more than a dozen games every day. Anyone who has played at the Airport Club is automatically a member. For more info, visit alliancebridgeclub.com or call Airport Club manager Bill Finkelstein at 716-603-6943. • • • The East Aurora Bridge Club begins play at 10 a.m. Wednesdays in the Aurora Senior Citizens Center, 101 King St., East Aurora. Attendance is generally three or four tables. For more info, email director Dave Larcom at dmocral@verizon.net . • • • The Bridge Centre of Niagara (BCON) in St. Catharines, Ont., offers a mix of online games and in-person games at its club in Tremont Square opposite the Pen Centre shopping plaza off Glendale Avenue. Face-to-face games open to all players are offered at 1 p.m. on Mondays, Wednesdays and Fridays. There is also a face-to-face game for 499ers (players with fewer than 500 points) at 1 p.m. Monday and Friday, a beginner game with a mini-lesson at 6 p.m. Monday, mentoring at 1 p.m. Tuesdays (register by 9 p.m. Sunday), a 299er game at 6:30 p.m. Wednesday (pre-registration requested); and a 999er game at 1 p.m. Thursday. The club currently hosts two virtual games on Bridge Base Online. There’s one for players with fewer than 750 points at 10 a.m. Tuesdays, and an open game at 7 p.m. Thursdays. For more info, click here . BCON also has begun an affiliation with SE Club of Clubs Online Bridge Collective, which appears as SE Carolina on Bridge Base Online. Games run throughout the day. A full lineup of games can be seen at SE Carolina On-line Bridge . • • • Face-to-face play in non-sanctioned clubs is offered at the Tonawanda Senior Center on Wednesday afternoons and at the Amherst Senior Center on Monday and Friday afternoons. The Tonawanda Senior Center will not have a game on New Year's Day. • • • Tournament calendar 2025 Toronto Non-Life Master Regional – Sheraton Centre, 123 Queen St. West, Toronto, Ont. Next Friday, Jan. 3, to Sunday, Jan. 5. For more info, click this link . Toronto New Year's Sectional – Sheraton Centre, 123 Queen St. West, Toronto, Ont. NextFriday, Jan. 3, to Sunday, Jan. 5. For more info, click this link . Cleveland Rock & Roll Regional – Embassy Suites Hotel, 5800 Rockside Road, Independence, Ohio. Wednesday, Jan. 8, to Sunday, Jan. 12. For more info, click this link . Niagara Sectional – Holiday Inn & Suites, 327 Ontario St., St. Catharines, Ont. Friday, Feb. 7, to Sunday, Feb. 9. Buffalo Spring Sectional – Buffalo Bridge Center, 60 Dingens St., Buffalo. Friday, March 28, to Sunday, March 30. Toronto Easter Regional – Sheraton Centre, 123 Queen St. West, Toronto, Ont. Tuesday, April 15, to Sunday, April 20. For more info, click this link . Finger Lakes Regional – Louis Wolk Jewish Community Center, 1200 Edgewood Ave., Rochester. Tuesday, June 9, to Sunday, June 14. Cleveland All-American Regional – Embassy Suites Hotel, 5800 Rockside Road, Independence, Ohio. Tuesday, June 24, to Sunday, June 29. For more info, click this link . South Western Ontario Regional – St. George Banquet Hall, 665 King St. North, Waterloo, Ont. Tuesday, July 1, to Sunday, July 6. For more info, click this link . Buffalo Summer Sectional – Buffalo Bridge Center, 60 Dingens St., Buffalo. Friday, July 11, to Sunday, July 13. Niagara 499er Sectional – Niagara-on-the-Lake Community Center, 14 Anderson Lane, Niagara-on-the-Lake, Ont. Friday, Aug. 15, to Sunday, Aug. 17. Pittsburgh Labor Day Regional – Greater Pittsburgh Masonic Center, 3579 Masonic Way, Pittsburgh, Pa. Wednesday, Aug. 27, to Monday, Sept. 1. Great Lakes Sectional – Erie Bridge Club, 1221 Grant Ave., Erie, Pa. Saturday, Sept. 6, and Sunday, Sept. 7. Buffalo Fall Sectional – Buffalo Bridge Center, 60 Dingens St., Buffalo. Friday, Sept. 12, to Sunday, Sept 14. Buffalo Regional – Millennium Hotel, 2040 Walden Ave., Cheektowaga. Tuesday, Oct. 21, to Sunday, Oct. 26. Niagara Regional – Holiday Inn & Suites, 327 Ontario St., St. Catharines, Ont. Tuesday, Nov. 11, to Sunday, Nov. 16. • • • Bridge club websites: Click names for links. Bridge Center of Buffalo . Western New York Unit 116 . The Airport Bridge Club, which continues to be on hiatus, does not have a website. For info, call 716-603-6943. • • • Duplicate scores from ACBL Live for Clubs Week of Dec. 16 to Dec. 22 ACBL Affiliated Clubs Buffalo Bridge Center Monday evening – 0-750 game online. Fran Schmidt and Richard McGowan, 66.67%; Karen Dearing and Joyce Frayer, 62.04%; Fran Holmes and Leslie Deich, 59.26%. Buffalo Bridge Center Tuesday morning – 0-1,600 game. Marilyn Wortzman and Jim Easton, 67.20%; Ilene Rothman and Carol Licata, 57.20%; Jeannine Dupuis and Joyce Frayer, 53.40%; Brian Fleming and Dennis Daly, 52.50%; (tie) Betty Metz and John Brennan, Judy Zeckhauser and Pat Haynes, 50.80%. Buffalo Bridge Center Thursday morning – 0-2,000 game. Maryann Szafran and Pat Haynes, 62.50%; (tie) Joanne Nover and David Schott, Marilyn Wortzman and Jim Easton, 60%. Buffalo Bridge Center Friday morning – Open game. Jay Costello and Bud Seidenberg, 63%; Judy Graf and Mike Ryan, 57%; Davis Heussler and Fred Yellen, 51%. Bridge Club of East Aurora Wednesday morning – Open game. Mary Terrana and Gordon Crone, 56.55%; Maureen Cancilla and Kathy Donnelly, 55.95%; Linda and Paul Zittel, 55.36%. Delaware Wednesday evening – 0-2,000 game online. Richard Berger and Richard Burkhart, 64.44%; Richard McGowan and Bill Rich, 59.44%; Wendy Zimman-Smith and Cookie Melanson, 56.11%; Marilyn Wortzman and Jim Easton, 55.56%. Other clubs Amherst Senior Center Monday afternoon – North-south, Shirley Cassety and George Mayers, 68%; Joe Huber and Fritz Schweiger, 52%; east-west, Nancy Wolstoncroft and Pat Radtke, 61%; Dan Blatz and Bruce Brown, 59%. Amherst Senior Center Friday afternoon – North-south, Shirley Cassety and George Mayers, 57%; Nancy Wolstoncroft and Rolene Pozarny, 54%; east-west, Ruth Nowatniak and Bill Rogers, 63%; Karen Synor and Jeff Peters, 56%. Tonawanda Senior Center Wednesday afternoon – Ed and Mike Rupp, 65.2%; Judy White and Fritz Schweiger, 58.3%; Rose Bochiechio and Edna Fill, 51.4%. • • • Unit 116 Master Point Leaders for Play in All Venues Jan. 1, 2024, to Nov. 30, 2024 0-5 Points – Mike Rupp, 7.32; John Brennan, 3.09; Alice Cooley, 2.56; Cathy Hetzler, 2.02; Elaine Rinfrette, 0.66;Maxine Seller, 0.59. 5-20 Points – Zakie Nohra, 14.89; Dennis Daly, 13.37; Fran Holmes, 6.91; Anthony Girasole, 6.38; Jeannine Dupuis, 4.44; Barbara Kaye, 3.43; Devon Marlette, 3.07; Joan Nigrelli, 1.84; Chris-Elaine Santilli, 1.79; Bill Duax, 1.65; Shrikant Joshi, 1.12; (tie) Melanie Skalski, Carol Li, 0.92; Marie Aaron, 0.90. 20-50 Points – Brian Fleming, 31.80; Ilene Rothman, 26.74; Michel Dupuis, 12.64; Molly Morris, 10.34; Donna Starnes, 8.73; Pepe Justicia-Linde, 7.97; Kathleen Voigt, 6.35; Phyllis Stasiowski, 5.53; Gini Sicignano, 5.48; Maxine Johnson, 4.83. 50-100 Points – Maria Schory, 34.71; Howard Epstein, 28.93; Mike Meacham, 19.32; John Houghtaling, 17.96; Susan Cardamone, 16.26; Gary Keenan, 15.52; Maureen Cancilla, 13.63; Mike Metzger, 12.90; Cynthia Tashjian, 12.24; Candace Graser, 10.48. 100-200 Points – Carol Licata, 39.65; Jim Hassett, 20.47; Joan Ciszak, 15.04; Fran Schmidt, 13.62; Betty DeFeo, 13.49; Judith McDermid, 11.64; Jim Greno, 9.04; Susan Levy, 7.72; Betsy Greno, 7.09; Janet Desmon, 3.95; Tiger Li, 3.82. 200-300 Points – Maria Amlani, 58.13; David Whitt, 29.94; Ethan Xie, 17.98; Laura Houghtaling, 17.96; John Scott, 5.25; Judy Babat, 5.15; Barbara Scott, 3.47; Laurie Foster, 3.32; Patty Porter, 1.68; Stuart Caswell, 0.75; John Fiegl, 0.58. 300-500 Points – Pat Haynes, 91.53; David Schott, 91.95; Joanne Nover, 65.70; Jim McClure, 31.30; Linda Milch, 29.89; Kusum Phadke, 29.43; Ruth Nawotniak, 23.77; Bob Ciszak, 23.11; Margaret Zhou, 21.39; Maryann Szafran, 19.12. 500-1,000 Points – Larry Himelein, 152.79; Martha Townson, 105.11; Terry Hamovitch, 71.66; Bram Hamovitch, 70.34; Joyce Frayer, 62.52; Linda Zittel, 53.02; Paul Zittel, 52.31; Mary Terrana, 46.83; Andrei Reinhorn, 43.89; Gordon Crone, 42.11. 1,000-1,500 Points – Jim Lanzo, 200.25; Kamil Bishara, 151.45; Vic Bergsten, 75.50; Mary Ball, 61.34; Betty Metz, 48.72; (tie) Marilyn Wortzman, Jim Easton, 47.72; Sue Neubecker, 44.45; Terry Fraas, 43.69; Joanne LaFay, 36.68. 1,500-2,500 Points – David Colligan, 89.59; John Bava, 57.27; Tova Reinhorn, 48.90; Pinky Regan, 50.21; Paula Kotowski, 46.92; Walt Olszewski, 36.79; Joyce Greenspan, 27.89; Sandi England, 27.17; Rajat Basu, 24.69; Judy Kaprove, 12.89. 2,500-3,500 Points – Linda Burroughsford, 193.33; Fred Yellen, 90.81; Art Morth, 31.42; Bill Rushmore, 21.95; Dale Anderson, 20.52; David Turner, 10.54; Mike Silverman, 9.07; Elaine Kurasiewicz, 6.05; Pat Rasmus, 1.89; Joanne Kelley, 1.71. 3,500-5,000 Points – Davis Heussler, 256.89; John Ziemer, 88.99; Donna Steffan, 82.54; Judy Graf, 69.64; Judy Padgug, 56.53; Chongmin Zhang, 51.97; Martha Welte, 49.31; Jim Gullo, 42.19; Mike Ryan, 36.31; Brian Meyer, 7.88. More than 5,000 Points – Saleh Fetouh, 960.74; Jay Levy, 159.73; Chris Urbanek, 156.62; Glenn Milgrim, 141.78; Dian Petrov, 112.58; Bud Seidenberg, 104.96; Jay Costello, 80.69; Kathy Pollock, 64.27; Sharon Benz, 27.77; Dan Gerstman, 7.88. • • • The Duplicate Bridge column is compiled weekly by Buffalo News Staff Reporter Dale Anderson. The print version stopped appearing Saturdays in The News in March 2020 when the pandemic forced local bridge clubs to halt face-to-face play. These days you can find it in two places online. Google “Duplicate Bridge” plus the current Saturday date and that should bring up a link to it on buffalonews.com , the Buffalo News website. Another place to find it is on Dale Anderson’s bridge blog at http://newsdupli.blogspot.com/ Deadline for submission of scores and notices is Tuesday night. Email danderson@buffnews.com or dahotwings@aol.com . Office phone is 716-849-4420. • • • A Gold Life Master , Dale Anderson has a career total of more than 2,980 master points. He occasionally writes about his quest for the next measure of achievement, Sapphire Life Master (3,500 points), and other bridge adventures here . Email danderson@buffnews.com . Be the first to know Get local news delivered to your inbox! Reporter {{description}} Email notifications are only sent once a day, and only if there are new matching items.
President Biden and his family arrived Thursday in St. Croix for what may be the final unpaid vacation of his presidency at the home of wealthy businesspeople — after consistent freebies as commander-in-chief drew ethics questions and an outcry over his failure to report the gifts. Biden, 82, first lady Jill Biden and fist daughter Ashley Biden landed aboard Air Force One on the afternoon following Christmas and motorcaded straight to the beachfront villa of Bill and Connie Neville. The president hosted the couple at his first state dinner in 2022 and typically grants them an audience on the tarmac while leaving the island after the new year. The White House did not confirm that the Bidens were again residing at the Nevilles’ deluxe property, which features an in-ground pool, direct beach access and sweeping views of an offshore island, but the motorcade separated near the north shore home. The property typically lists as a VRBO rental available for roughly $900 per night. Biden stayed at the same house at the end of 2022 and 2023 for post-Christmas trips to celebrate New Year’s Eve — and also stayed there during his vice presidency, a fact that was used on promotional material. Unlike President-elect Donald Trump, who regularly stayed at his own properties during his first term, drawing different ethics issues, Biden as president has sought out unpaid stays with prominent supporters, in many cases generating concern about the homeowners securing access and influence. The Nevilles operate the US Viking software company, which makes an online content platform called ENPS marketed by The Associated Press and used by news outlets. The couple scored coveted tickets to Biden’s first state dinner, featuring French President Emmanuel Macron and a select group of the two countries’ business elite, 26 days before the Bidens’ first presidential trip to the Nevilles’ home. Although the precise sequence of events ahead of the initial trip to the beach house are unclear, the Bidens months later directly asked another homeowner , Maria Allwin, the widow of a prominent hedge fund operator, if they could use without payment her vacation mansion in Kiawah Island, S.C. Biden additionally has enjoyed four Thanksgiving-week stays at billionaire private equity titan David Rubenstein’s Nantucket compound — and in a small token of gratitude spoke this September at a lunch hosted by Rubenstein in Washington. Those four stays are presumed to have been unpaid, though neither party has confirmed it. This August, Biden’s family spent five days for free at the sprawling California ranch of medical technology billionaire Joe Kiani, whose substantial government contracts during the Biden administration and appointment by Biden to an advisory board drew Republican outcry. Last August, the Biden family spent nine days at billionaire climate investor Tom Steyer’s waterfront Lake Tahoe retreat in Nevada. The White House initially claimed the Bidens would pay for the stay, prompting a short-lived local investigation of Steyer’s lack of a rental permit, which was called off without explanation. Critics of the stays say they reek of corruption and that Biden’s consistent failure to report the gifts on annual ethics forms could be criminal, though Biden aides have taken the view that they don’t need to be listed due to the lack of clarity in federal law. Mark Paoletta, the incoming top lawyer for the White House budget office, who served in the same role during President-elect Donald Trump’s first term, slammed Biden’s reporting omissions in May. “His habit of taking over donors’ homes for vacations and not paying nor disclosing is consistent with his family’s long history of grift and corruption,” Paoletta told The Post after the release of Biden’s annual disclosure forms again showed the omissions. Republicans have accused the media of a double standard in aggressively reporting on conservative Supreme Court Justice Clarence Thomas not disclosing trips with billionaire developer Harlan Crow, who had no known business before the court. Intentionally leaving gifts off the forms could amount to Biden violating federal law by making false statements — a crime punishable by up to five years in prison under 18 U.S. Code § 1001, former George W. Bush White House ethics lawyer Richard Painter previously told The Post. “It really hurts the Democrats because they have always been claiming to be the party of the people, and yet, time and time again, you find the president in the United States staying in the house of a billionaire,” said Painter, now a Democrat, after Biden stayed again at Rubenstein’s compound. “The problem is the not disclosing. And it makes us very hard for those of us who are very critical of the Supreme Court justices who are not disclosing this kind of stuff.”
Thirada "Tida" Kangwankiattichai's story is a testament to the power of dreams, hard work and an enduring love for animation. Born and raised in Bangkok, Tida grew up like many kids captivated by Disney's enchanting tales. Little did she know that years later, she would join the very studio that brought those magical worlds to life, playing a pivotal role as a layout artist in Disney's Moana 2. Tida's childhood was filled with artistic pursuits and a deep appreciation for movies. She remembers saving her allowance in high school to buy CDs of her favourite films, often cramming her cabinet to capacity. "I was a kid who loved drawing and watching movies," she recalled with a smile. "But I never expected to grow up pursuing a career in animation." Her journey into the world of animation was far from linear. After graduating from Nawaminthrachinuthit Bodindecha School, Tida pursued a bachelor's degree in management engineering and logistics at Silpakorn University. However, a move to Vancouver, Canada, was the turning point. "When I arrived in Vancouver, I realised animation could be a viable career," Tida said. "That's when I decided to take it seriously." In 2014, she enrolled at Vancouver Film School to study 3D animation and visual effects. Fast-forward to 2023, Tida's dream became reality when she joined Walt Disney Animation Studios as a layout artist. For her, animation is the perfect marriage of art, technology and storytelling. "It's a medium where I can truly express my creativity," she shared. Tida's passion for Disney runs deep. When asked if she considers herself a die-hard fan, she beams with pride. "The musical elements and adventurous storylines in Disney films make them timeless," she explains. "No matter how old I am, I can always relate to the stories." Her admiration extends to Disney's legacy in the animation industry. "The company's enduring success speaks to the incredible talent behind the scenes," she said. Collaborating with such gifted individuals has been a dream come true. "It's an honour to contribute to creating timeless classics that inspire future generations." Working on Moana 2 marked a significant milestone for Tida. As her first Disney credit, the project came with its share of challenges -- and immense rewards. The film, a sequel to 2016's Moana, takes audiences on an even more adventurous journey, reuniting Moana and Maui while introducing new characters and challenges. "The duration and quality we were striving for were the biggest challenges in creating Moana 2," Tida admited. Her role as a layout artist required meticulous attention to detail. From setting camera angles to determining camera movements, Tida played a key part in capturing the characters and story in the most engaging way possible. The process involved creating balanced compositions within scenes, ensuring the proportions of the characters were clear and using techniques like "Enhance Depth" to craft visually stunning shots. Every element, from the lighting to the effects, had to align with the story's emotional beats. "The camera movement has to feel purposeful," Tida explained. "It should never be too still or too complex; it needs to flow seamlessly with the characters." Action scenes were particularly demanding. "These sequences require great precision," she said. "Every movement must connect with the audience and keep them engaged." The result is a visually breathtaking film that raises the bar for animated storytelling. Tida's personal connection to the original Moana made working on the sequel even more special. "The first Moana is my favourite animated film," she revealed. "It's a princess story full of action, adventure, and catchy songs. It's so much fun!" She promises that Moana 2 delivers more excitement. Alongside Moana and Maui, the sequel introduces new characters embarking on a more challenging mission. "Fans of the original will love this sequel," Tida said. "It's packed with stunning visuals, unforgettable music and a story that will resonate with everyone." Her pride in the project shines through. "I hope audiences enjoy Moana's new adventure as much as we enjoyed bringing it to life," she shares. "And I'm especially proud that this film highlights the contributions of Southeast Asian talent." As the only Thai layout artist on Moana 2, Tida hopes her journey will inspire others from her home country to pursue careers in animation. "It warms my heart to see creative talents from Southeast Asia contributing to Disney's legacy," she said. Vineet Puri, general manager and vice president of Disney Entertainment Southeast Asia, echoed this sentiment. "It's incredible to see someone of Thai heritage bringing Moana and Maui's adventures to life," he said. "We hope Tida's work inspires future storytellers and animators from Thailand to pursue their dreams." For Tida, the journey is about more than personal success. It's about opening doors for others and showcasing the global appeal of animation. "I hope more people in Thailand recognise and support local animators," she said. "It's an honour to represent my heritage in a film that will be seen by audiences around the world." As Moana 2 hit theatres, Tida reflects on her incredible journey. From a movie-loving teenager in Bangkok to a layout artist at Walt Disney Animation Studios, her path is a powerful reminder that dreams can come true with dedication and passion. "Animation has the power to make imagination come alive," Tida said. "It's amazing to be part of a team that creates magic on screen." Audiences can now experience the magic for themselves. Set sail with Moana and her crew on a thrilling new adventure in Moana 2. With breathtaking visuals, unforgettable music, and a heartfelt story, it's a journey you won't want to miss. And behind it all is the remarkable talent of artists like Thirada Kangwankiattichai, whose passion and creativity continue to inspire a new generation of dreamers.Detroit Red Wings defense prospect Axel Sandin-Pellikka displayed his offensive abilities Thursday during the first day of the World Junior Championship in Ottawa. Sandin-Pellikka recorded a natural hat trick and added an assist for a four-point game in Sweden’s 5-2 victory over Slovakia. Sandin-Pellikka, the team captain, snapped a 1-1 tie with a power-play goal at 17:43 of the second period and added two goals in the third. He finished with 11 shots on goal in 20:55. “We have a lot of good defensemen who like to play with the puck, so it’s fun that we got some goals from there,” Sandin-Pellikka said in a post on iihf.com. “We played a good game overall, so we’re happy. We played with patience. We kept our cool. We had a lot of chances and knew pucks were going to go in soon enough, and they did.” Sandin-Pellikka, 19, was named the top defenseman in the tournament last year when Sweden won the silver medal. The 17th overall pick in 2023, Sandin-Pellikka now has five goals and six assists in 15 World Junior games over three years. USA 10, Germany 4: Red Wings goaltending prospect Trey Augustine (Michigan State) stopped 18-of-22 shots as the U.S. opened defense of its gold medal with a blowout win. Team USA was led offensively by James Hagens (two goals, two assists) and Gabe Perreault (two goals, one assist) of Boston College, Cole Hutson (five assists) of Boston University and Brodie Ziemer (two goals) of Minnesota. Red Wings forward prospect Max Plante contributed an assist in 10:15.The 2024 regular season didn’t end quite as expected for USC or Texas A&M. On Nov. 30, Lincoln Riley’s Trojans scored 14 points in the second quarter against No. 5 Notre Dame to go into halftime tied at 14. Unfortunately, the Fighting Irish answered with 21 points in the third and ended up walking away with a 49-35 victory, leaving USC 6-6 on the year. There were silver linings, though; redshirt sophomore quarterback Jayden Maiava threw 27-of-48 passes for 360 yards and a trio of touchdowns. Wide receiver Ja’Kobi Lane caught all three of those touchdown tosses. Still, coming into today’s Las Vegas Bowl at Allegiant Stadium — where they’ll play Texas A&M for the first time since December 1977 — the club is missing some key contributors due to the NCAA transfer portal. Star running back Woody Marks isn’t expected to play and it’s still uncertain whether safety Kamari Ramsey, cornerbacks Jaylin Smith and Greedy Vance, offensive linemen Emmanuel Pregnon and Jonah Monheim and linebackers Easton Mascarenas-Arnold and Mason Cobb or not will take the field, according to Yahoo Sports . Texas A&M had a similarly rough go at it to close 2024. In their penultimate game, Mike Elko’s Aggies fell short in a 43-41 nailbiter against Auburn. Things ended in an even more dire fashion in the last contest of the season, when Marcel Reed and co. dropped the Lone Star Showdown 17-7 to Texas. “...it’s a great opportunity to go out and play a big school on the West Coast, and it’s a Big Ten/SEC matchup,” Elko said. “Those matchups mean stuff. It’s kind of, in our opinion, the first game moving forward to the 2025 season. And it’ll kind of launch the offseason one way or the other.” If you want to see if the Trojans or Aggies snap their losing streak and finish 2024 on a triumphant note, here’s everything you need to know about the USC Trojans vs. Texas A&M Aggies Las Vegas Bowl, from start time and channel, to how to watch for free . USC-Texas A&M date and time: When does USC play Texas A&M in the Las Vegas Bowl? USC takes on Texas A&M in the Las Vegas Bowl today December 27, at 10:30 p.m. EST. What channel is USC vs. Texas A&M on? USC vs. Texas A&M will air on ESPN, so all you’ll have to do is tune in around 10:30 p.m. EST. How to watch USC vs. Texas A&M for free: If you don’t have cable, the only way to stream USC vs. Texas A&M for free is to use a live TV streaming service with a free trial. We recommend DIRECTV Stream , which offers a five-day free trial for new subscribers. When the trial is over, you’ll pay $86.98/month and gain access to over 90 live channels including ESPN, ABC, and TNT (where other CFB and Bowl games will air this season). Other ways to watch USC vs. Texas A&M: While Sling TV doesn’t offer a free trial, you’ll save a lot of money on a whole month of streaming rather than just five days free. Sling TV’s Orange plan includes ESPN, and right now, you can get 50% off your first month. Instead of $40, you’ll pay $20 and get access to nearly the entire CFB Playoff and Bowl schedule before the second month payment starts. How to Watch USC vs. Texas A&M from Anywhere: If you are outside of the US or unable to watch USC vs. Texas A&M in your region, consider a VPN (Virtual Private Network). Whether you’re traveling or living abroad, using a VPN allows you to stream live TV and your favorite shows and movies using your usual streaming services, without any restrictions. A VPN lets you change the IP address on your device so that you can access your favorite apps and websites whether you’re in the UK, Canada, Mexico, or anywhere in the world. Where is today’s USC-Texas A&M game being played? The Sin City winner takes all matchup will be played at Las Vegas’ Allegiant Stadium. USC-Texas A&M broadcast team: Dave Flemming will serve as the play-by-play announcer. Brock Osweiler is the analyst and Stormy Buonantony handles sideline reporter duties at the Boston College vs. Nebraska Pinstripe Bowl. College Football Playoff schedule: If you’d like to see how the biggest remaining high-stakes matchups shake out, here’s when and where you can watch the CFP quarterfinals, semifinals and National Championship live. Why Trust Post Wanted by the New York Post For over 200 years, the New York Post has been America’s go-to source for bold news, engaging stories, in-depth reporting, and now, insightful shopping guidance . We’re not just thorough reporters – we sift through mountains of information, test and compare products , and consult experts on any topics we aren’t already schooled specialists in to deliver useful, realistic product recommendations based on our extensive and hands-on analysis. Here at The Post, we’re known for being brutally honest – we clearly label partnership content, and whether we receive anything from affiliate links, so you always know where we stand. We routinely update content to reflect current research and expert advice, provide context (and wit) and ensure our links work. Please note that deals can expire, and all prices are subject to change.The 2024 regular season didn’t end quite as expected for USC or Texas A&M. On Nov. 30, Lincoln Riley’s Trojans scored 14 points in the second quarter against No. 5 Notre Dame to go into halftime tied at 14. Unfortunately, the Fighting Irish answered with 21 points in the third and ended up walking away with a 49-35 victory, leaving USC 6-6 on the year. There were silver linings, though; redshirt sophomore quarterback Jayden Maiava threw 27-of-48 passes for 360 yards and a trio of touchdowns. Wide receiver Ja’Kobi Lane caught all three of those touchdown tosses. Still, coming into today’s Las Vegas Bowl at Allegiant Stadium — where they’ll play Texas A&M for the first time since December 1977 — the club is missing some key contributors due to the NCAA transfer portal. Star running back Woody Marks isn’t expected to play and it’s still uncertain whether safety Kamari Ramsey, cornerbacks Jaylin Smith and Greedy Vance, offensive linemen Emmanuel Pregnon and Jonah Monheim and linebackers Easton Mascarenas-Arnold and Mason Cobb or not will take the field, according to Yahoo Sports . Texas A&M had a similarly rough go at it to close 2024. In their penultimate game, Mike Elko’s Aggies fell short in a 43-41 nailbiter against Auburn. Things ended in an even more dire fashion in the last contest of the season, when Marcel Reed and co. dropped the Lone Star Showdown 17-7 to Texas. “...it’s a great opportunity to go out and play a big school on the West Coast, and it’s a Big Ten/SEC matchup,” Elko said. “Those matchups mean stuff. It’s kind of, in our opinion, the first game moving forward to the 2025 season. And it’ll kind of launch the offseason one way or the other.” If you want to see if the Trojans or Aggies snap their losing streak and finish 2024 on a triumphant note, here’s everything you need to know about the USC Trojans vs. Texas A&M Aggies Las Vegas Bowl, from start time and channel, to how to watch for free . USC-Texas A&M date and time: When does USC play Texas A&M in the Las Vegas Bowl? USC takes on Texas A&M in the Las Vegas Bowl today December 27, at 10:30 p.m. EST. What channel is USC vs. Texas A&M on? USC vs. Texas A&M will air on ESPN, so all you’ll have to do is tune in around 10:30 p.m. EST. How to watch USC vs. Texas A&M for free: If you don’t have cable, the only way to stream USC vs. Texas A&M for free is to use a live TV streaming service with a free trial. We recommend DIRECTV Stream , which offers a five-day free trial for new subscribers. When the trial is over, you’ll pay $86.98/month and gain access to over 90 live channels including ESPN, ABC, and TNT (where other CFB and Bowl games will air this season). Other ways to watch USC vs. Texas A&M: While Sling TV doesn’t offer a free trial, you’ll save a lot of money on a whole month of streaming rather than just five days free. Sling TV’s Orange plan includes ESPN, and right now, you can get 50% off your first month. Instead of $40, you’ll pay $20 and get access to nearly the entire CFB Playoff and Bowl schedule before the second month payment starts. How to Watch USC vs. Texas A&M from Anywhere: If you are outside of the US or unable to watch USC vs. Texas A&M in your region, consider a VPN (Virtual Private Network). Whether you’re traveling or living abroad, using a VPN allows you to stream live TV and your favorite shows and movies using your usual streaming services, without any restrictions. A VPN lets you change the IP address on your device so that you can access your favorite apps and websites whether you’re in the UK, Canada, Mexico, or anywhere in the world. Where is today’s USC-Texas A&M game being played? The Sin City winner takes all matchup will be played at Las Vegas’ Allegiant Stadium. USC-Texas A&M broadcast team: Dave Flemming will serve as the play-by-play announcer. Brock Osweiler is the analyst and Stormy Buonantony handles sideline reporter duties at the Boston College vs. Nebraska Pinstripe Bowl. College Football Playoff schedule: If you’d like to see how the biggest remaining high-stakes matchups shake out, here’s when and where you can watch the CFP quarterfinals, semifinals and National Championship live. Why Trust Post Wanted by the New York Post For over 200 years, the New York Post has been America’s go-to source for bold news, engaging stories, in-depth reporting, and now, insightful shopping guidance . We’re not just thorough reporters – we sift through mountains of information, test and compare products , and consult experts on any topics we aren’t already schooled specialists in to deliver useful, realistic product recommendations based on our extensive and hands-on analysis. Here at The Post, we’re known for being brutally honest – we clearly label partnership content, and whether we receive anything from affiliate links, so you always know where we stand. We routinely update content to reflect current research and expert advice, provide context (and wit) and ensure our links work. Please note that deals can expire, and all prices are subject to change.