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Peaky Blinders star’s bold look leaves fans with big concern after past ‘struggles’Shivpuri: Union Minister Jyotiraditya Scindia was safely evacuated after a bee attack during a function in Madhya Pradesh's Shivpuri on Saturday. The video of the incident also went viral on social media. Scindia was on a one-day visit to Shivpuri to inaugurate the dredging machine that was brought to remove the water hyacinth at Chandpatha Lake in Madhav National Park. As soon as the swarm of bees attacked people present at the event, Scidnia's security personnel swung into action and provided him with a cover. They covered his face with a handkerchief. The minister was then immediately evacuated safely. Video Of The Incident: Several people, including some security personnel, were stung by bees. Other leaders, including state energy minister Pradyuman Singh Tomar, and Shivpuri MLA Devendra Jain were also accompanying Scindia. Scindia Evacuated Safely: According to reports, the Union Minister returned without inaugurating the project. Scidia is the MP from Madhya Pradesh's Guna Lok Sabha seat and is currently serving as Union Minister of Communications and Union Minister of the Development of North Eastern Region. Get Latest News Live on Times Now along with Breaking News and Top Headlines from India and around the world.Ex-OpenAI engineer who raised legal concerns about the technology he helped build has died
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By BEN FINLEY The Christmas tradition has become nearly global in scope: Children from around the world track Santa Claus as he sweeps across the earth, delivering presents and defying time. Related Articles National News | Bill Clinton is out of the hospital after being treated for the flu National News | Heavy travel day off to a rough start after American Airlines briefly grounds all flights National News | Social Security’s full retirement age will jump in 2025. When can you collect your full benefits? National News | Today in History: December 24, former defense secretary pardoned in Iran-Contra scandal National News | Prosecutors withdraw appeal of dismissed case against Alec Baldwin in fatal movie set shooting Each year, at least 100,000 kids call into the North American Aerospace Defense Command to inquire about Santa’s location. Millions more follow online in nine languages , from English to Japanese. On any other night, NORAD is scanning the heavens for potential threats , such as last year’s Chinese spy balloon . But on Christmas Eve, volunteers in Colorado Springs are fielding questions like, “When is Santa coming to my house?” and, “Am I on the naughty or nice list?” “There are screams and giggles and laughter,” said Bob Sommers, 63, a civilian contractor and NORAD volunteer. Sommers often says on the call that everyone must be asleep before Santa arrives, prompting parents to say, “Do you hear what he said? We got to go to bed early.” NORAD’s annual tracking of Santa has endured since the Cold War , predating ugly sweater parties and Mariah Carey classics . The tradition continues regardless of government shutdowns, such as the one in 2018 , and this year . Here’s how it began and why the phones keep ringing. It started with a child’s accidental phone call in 1955. The Colorado Springs newspaper printed a Sears advertisement that encouraged children to call Santa, listing a phone number. A boy called. But he reached the Continental Air Defense Command, now NORAD, a joint U.S. and Canadian effort to spot potential enemy attacks. Tensions were growing with the Soviet Union, along with anxieties about nuclear war. Air Force Col. Harry W. Shoup picked up an emergency-only “red phone” and was greeted by a tiny voice that began to recite a Christmas wish list. “He went on a little bit, and he takes a breath, then says, ‘Hey, you’re not Santa,’” Shoup told The Associated Press in 1999. Realizing an explanation would be lost on the youngster, Shoup summoned a deep, jolly voice and replied, “Ho, ho, ho! Yes, I am Santa Claus. Have you been a good boy?” Shoup said he learned from the boy’s mother that Sears mistakenly printed the top-secret number. He hung up, but the phone soon rang again with a young girl reciting her Christmas list. Fifty calls a day followed, he said. In the pre-digital age, the agency used a 60-by-80 foot (18-by-24 meter) plexiglass map of North America to track unidentified objects. A staff member jokingly drew Santa and his sleigh over the North Pole. The tradition was born. “Note to the kiddies,” began an AP story from Colorado Springs on Dec. 23, 1955. “Santa Claus Friday was assured safe passage into the United States by the Continental Air Defense Command.” In a likely reference to the Soviets, the article noted that Santa was guarded against possible attack from “those who do not believe in Christmas.” Some grinchy journalists have nitpicked Shoup’s story, questioning whether a misprint or a misdial prompted the boy’s call. In 2014, tech news site Gizmodo cited an International News Service story from Dec. 1, 1955, about a child’s call to Shoup. Published in the Pasadena Independent, the article said the child reversed two digits in the Sears number. “When a childish voice asked COC commander Col. Harry Shoup, if there was a Santa Claus at the North Pole, he answered much more roughly than he should — considering the season: ‘There may be a guy called Santa Claus at the North Pole, but he’s not the one I worry about coming from that direction,’” Shoup said in the brief piece. In 2015, The Atlantic magazine doubted the flood of calls to the secret line, while noting that Shoup had a flair for public relations. Phone calls aside, Shoup was indeed media savvy. In 1986, he told the Scripps Howard News Service that he recognized an opportunity when a staff member drew Santa on the glass map in 1955. A lieutenant colonel promised to have it erased. But Shoup said, “You leave it right there,” and summoned public affairs. Shoup wanted to boost morale for the troops and public alike. “Why, it made the military look good — like we’re not all a bunch of snobs who don’t care about Santa Claus,” he said. Shoup died in 2009. His children told the StoryCorps podcast in 2014 that it was a misprinted Sears ad that prompted the phone calls. “And later in life he got letters from all over the world,” said Terri Van Keuren, a daughter. “People saying ‘Thank you, Colonel, for having, you know, this sense of humor.’” NORAD’s tradition is one of the few modern additions to the centuries-old Santa story that have endured, according to Gerry Bowler, a Canadian historian who spoke to the AP in 2010. Ad campaigns or movies try to “kidnap” Santa for commercial purposes, said Bowler, who wrote “Santa Claus: A Biography.” NORAD, by contrast, takes an essential element of Santa’s story and views it through a technological lens. In a recent interview with the AP, Air Force Lt. Gen. Case Cunningham explained that NORAD radars in Alaska and Canada —- known as the northern warning system — are the first to detect Santa. He leaves the North Pole and typically heads for the international dateline in the Pacific Ocean. From there he moves west, following the night. “That’s when the satellite systems we use to track and identify targets of interest every single day start to kick in,” Cunningham said. “A probably little-known fact is that Rudolph’s nose that glows red emanates a lot of heat. And so those satellites track (Santa) through that heat source.” NORAD has an app and website, www.noradsanta.org , that will track Santa on Christmas Eve from 4 a.m. to midnight, mountain standard time. People can call 1-877-HI-NORAD to ask live operators about Santa’s location from 6 a.m. to midnight, mountain time.WOOD carvers from Tugaya, Lanao del Sur, known for their intricate wood carving and brasswares featuring Okir and other Maranao patterns, are set to enhance their craft through technical training programs under an initiative by the Department of Science and Technology (DOST). The Forest Products Research and Development Institute (FPRDI) of the DOST has partnered with Tugaya’s local government and Bangsamoro agencies of the Ministry of Science and Technology-BARMM (MOST-BARMM) and the Ministry of Trade, Investment and Tourism-BARMM (MTIT-BARMM) in launching the “Likhain at Linangin Obra mula sa Kahoy [LiLOK]: Valuing the Wood Carving Industry in the Philippines” program. The project aims to improve the quality, marketability, and sustainability of Tugaya’s wood carving industry, while preserving its cultural heritage. “We are confident that the LiLOK program will significantly contribute to the development of the local wood carving industry in the Philippines. Indeed, there are science-based solutions even for challenges related to arts and culture,” DOST Secretary Renato U. Solidum Jr. said. Several key challenges identified by artisans include issues with wood drying, finishing and preservation, alongside the dwindling supply of raw materials and declining interest in carving among women and youth. Based on the US Foreign Agricultural Service’s report, the Philippines relies on imports for 75 percent of its wood and wood products, with the bulk of these consisting of plywood, veneered panels, laminated wood, and both coniferous and non-coniferous wood, either sawn or chipped lengthwise. Further data from the Climate Change Commission indicated that from 2001 to 2022, the country experienced a loss of 1.42 million hectares of forested land, marking a 7.6 percent decline in its overall tree cover. The LiLOK program will address these concerns through “science-based interventions, technical training, and value chain mapping,” which will document Tugaya’s cultural history and suggest strategies for market expansion. “Again, this is another milestone project for DOST-FPRDI as we continue our commitment to use science, technology and innovation to protect and preserve our local culture,” DOST-FPRDI Director Rico J. Cabangon said. A Memorandum of Agreement (MOA) for the initiative was signed on December 2, at the Provincial Tourism Office in Marawi, Lanao del Sur, led by DOST-FPRDI Director Cabangon, MOST Lanao del Sur Provincial Director Alinader Sarangani, MTIT BARMM Lanao del Sur Provincial Director Mohammad Aquil A. Mamanite, and LiLOK Project Leader Jennifer M. Conda. The initiative will also collaborate with partners, such as the University of the Philippines Open University and UP Los Baños Forestry Development Center, to harmonize policies on the wood carving sector and provide technical support. Funded by the National Research Council of the Philippines, the program will extend its reach to other carving communities across the country, including those in Hungduan, Ifugao; Guagua, Pampanga; Paete, Laguna; Palawan; and Mogpog, Marinduque. Image credits: DOST-FPRDI PHOTO
“President Anura Kumara Dissanayake has expressed the need to increase the current IT workforce from 85,000 to 250,000 within the next two years to achieve the target of USD 15 billion by 2030,” said Acting Secretary, Ministry of Digital Economy, Waruna Sri Dhanapala. He was speaking at the unveiling of a partnership between MMBL Pathfinder Group and HCLTech, India to transform IT upskilling in Sri Lanka via world-class employment-focused training programmes through a career-shaper platform. “To make this a reality we have to revamp school education, the university system and the industry landscape. Internships and on-the-job training can upskill youth on IT based job needs. The Government’s responsibility is to harness the prevailing knowledge to achieve this,” he said. “Society 5.0 is of paramount importance and we see immense potential being harnessed towards this end globally. India being a multi-lingual country was able to converge and integrate all sectors such as industry, agriculture, education via language and IT. The booming new BPO concept was their game- changer that made emphasis on knowledge input,” Dhanapala said. Corporate Vice President and Global Head, Sri Lanka Technologies and Business Head of Ed Tech of HCL, India Srimathi Shivashankar said, “Sri Lanka is very resilient. Hence capacity and capability building is never an issue. Sri Lanka is truly a global site for India, hence HCLTech commenced expanding operations here. Capacity is always a major concern. India moved from basic education to a skills-based curriculum to adapt technology.” Group Director and CEO, MMBL Pathfinder Group of Companies, K Balasundaram said, “We are committed to offer job-oriented training to our youth and partnered with HCLTech to commission laboratories in Colombo and Jaffna”. The panel discussion on the theme, ‘Accelerating talent potential through Edtech – Mapping a skilled future’ gave many insights to the importance of digitalisation and bridging the gap for the younger generation to commence a digital transformation journey and become job-ready youth. The panelists were KPMG’s Hasitha Karunaratne, Oshada Senanayake of Brandix, B Gunapala of SLASSCOM and Nishan Sembacuttiaratchy of Esoft Metro Campus. They expressed views on challenges organisations face in skilling employees as well as technologies such as AI, data science and analytics, cloud computing, cybersecurity, digital marketing, mobile app development, Internet of Things (IoT) that are relevant to the workforce and also on prioritising a resourceful skilling partner.Colorado Buffaloes quarterback Shedeur Sanders took a bad hit to the knee during last Saturday’s matchup against the Kansas Jayhawks, and the play quickly became a hot topic on social media. Fans and analysts, including Joel Klatt , even called it a cheap shot. The hit happened late in the first half, with just three minutes to go. Sanders climbed the pocket and delivered a pass to wide receiver Will Sheppard. At the very moment the ball was released, Kansas defensive end Dean Miller came crashing into Sanders’ knees. The hit sent Sanders flipping through the air, landing awkwardly on his neck. There was no roughing-the-passer penalty, and thankfully for Sanders, he avoided a serious injury. The hit looked so bad that fans rushed to social media after the game to attack Miller . Kansas with a big hit on Shedeur Sanders 😬 pic.twitter.com/5jXVaGb1Rh On Tuesday, Sanders addressed the hit on his podcast, "2Legendary with Shedeur Sanders." He said his initial thoughts were whether he completed the pass or not. "Well, initially nothing. Honestly, it's just, did I complete the pass?" Sanders said . "That's honestly what it was. I didn't hear our crowd that was there cheer so I realized it was an incomplete pass. Then, after that, the lineman, everybody helped me off the ground and that's really it." The senior then gave some advice to young quarterbacks, emphasizing the importance of keeping their knees bent at all times to prevent serious injuries. He said that doing so helped him in this situation. "An important piece of quarterbacking is always keep your knees bent," Sanders added. "So that's the advice I always give to anybody playing a position... I never keep my legs locked out because that's when you have those knee injuries and all those types of stuff...I feel like that all helped me in that moment." © Nick Tre. Smith-Imagn Images The Buffs went on to lose to Kansas 37-21. The 6-foot-2, 215-pound signal-caller finished the game, completing 23-of-29 passes for 266 yards and three touchdowns. Colorado's final game of the season is on Friday against Oklahoma State. Kickoff is set for 12 p.m. ET, and the Buffs will look to improve to 9-3 on the season. Related: Shedeur Sanders Predicted To Land In NFC After ‘All-In’ Draft TradeConcentra Announces Completion of Spin-Off from Select MedicalAdvisors Asset Management Inc. Lowers Holdings in Samsara Inc. (NYSE:IOT)
URCADServices Offers World-Class MEP Engineering and CAD Solutions 12-24-2024 06:20 PM CET | Business, Economy, Finances, Banking & Insurance Press release from: ABNewswire High-Quality HVAC, Electrical, and Plumbing Designs Tailored to Client Needs Hyderabad, India - URCADServices, a leader in CAD and engineering outsourcing solutions, announces its comprehensive range of Mechanical, Electrical, and Plumbing (MEP) engineering services tailored to meet global standards. With a focus on innovation, cost-effectiveness, and precision, URCADServices empowers businesses across industries to optimize workflows and enhance project outcomes. MEP Engineering Services Highlights: * HVAC Design & Drafting: Expertise in heating, ventilation, and air conditioning systems, including duct sizing, load calculations, and 3D modeling. * Electrical CAD Services: Precision in electrical designs, from power distribution to lighting layouts and panel diagrams. * Plumbing Design Solutions: Specialization in domestic water systems, fuel gas piping, stormwater systems, and automatic sprinkler system specifications. Innovative Tools and Global Standards URCADServices leverages advanced CAD software and calculation tools for HVAC load analysis, energy usage simulations, and equipment selection. Services adhere to international standards such as ASHRAE, SMACNA, and NFPA, ensuring reliable and code-compliant results. Why Outsource to URCADServices? Outsourcing CAD and engineering solutions to URCADServices provides a host of benefits: * Cost Efficiency: Competitive pricing without compromising quality. * Enhanced Productivity: Access to a skilled workforce with extensive industry experience. * Customization: Tailored solutions to match specific project requirements. Comprehensive Offerings * MEP BIM and Coordination Drawings * HVAC and Plumbing Design Layouts * Electrical Systems Design * Shop Drawings and Quantity Take-offs * 3D Modeling and Parametric Modeling Industries Served: URCADServices supports a diverse range of sectors, including residential, commercial, industrial, healthcare, and education. Their commitment to excellence makes them a trusted partner for architects, contractors, and consultants worldwide. Client Testimonials * "You guys are doing an excellent job on the subdivision so far. This was exactly what we have been searching for!" - Joe, Civil Engineer, P.E. * "I love the quality of the renderings-fabulous work!" - Stephanie, Architect, Designer Contact URCADServices Today As a trusted outsourcing partner, URCADServices is ready to deliver high-quality solutions to enhance your project outcomes. Get in touch to learn more or request a FREE quote for your HVAC, MEP, and CAD design needs: * Email: info@urcadservices.com * Website: www.urcadservices.com [ http://www.urcadservices.com/ ] About URCADServices Since 2011, URCADServices has been at the forefront of CAD and MEP engineering solutions. The company specializes in delivering innovative, cost-effective, and high-quality services, leveraging cutting-edge technology to meet the diverse needs of global clients. For additional information, visit www.urcadservices.com [ http://www.urcadservices.com/ ]. Media Contact Company Name: UR CAD Services Contact Person: Marketing Team Email:Send Email [ https://www.abnewswire.com/email_contact_us.php?pr=urcadservices-offers-worldclass-mep-engineering-and-cad-solutions ] Country: United States Website: http://www.urcadservices.com This release was published on openPR.My Date with Rural China----VOC.com.cn Unveils Season Two of I Am in Rural China
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Aaron Rodgers insists there's nothing uncertain about his status for the New York Jets' game Sunday at Buffalo. “There's no way I'm not playing,” the quarterback said during a video call Tuesday. Rodgers acknowledged he has “a little MCL” issue in a knee, but added: “I've had a lot worse. I lucked out. I avoided major stretchage of the MCL.” Rodgers was hurt in the Jets’ 19-9 loss to the Los Angeles Rams last Sunday but remained in the game. “I’m gonna play,” Rodgers said of the game against the Bills. “It feels pretty good.” Rookie left tackle Olu Fashanu’s promising first season is over, though, as the first-round pick was placed on injured reserve with an injury to the plantar fascia in his left foot. Interim coach Jeff Ulbrich said earlier Tuesday that it was “just too early to tell” what Rodgers' availability might be, but he was optimistic about the 41-year-old quarterback's chances. “If I’m a betting man," Ulbrich said, “I’m betting on Aaron Rodgers to play.” Rodgers said he didn't need an MRI on the knee, the latest ailment in what has been an injury-filled season. He earlier dealt with knee, hamstring and ankle issues that hindered his play at times. One of the four-time MVP's goals entering the season was playing in all 17 games after being limited to four snaps in his debut last year because of a torn Achilles tendon. “I definitely felt like at midseason that was going to be difficult,” Rodgers said of playing in every game. “But right now, it looks like, for sure, 16. And hopefully get through this one and get to 17.” The Jets held a walkthrough Tuesday and their next full practice is Thursday, giving Rodgers some extra time to recover. Rodgers has 24 touchdown passes and eight interceptions this season, and he's one TD throw from becoming the fifth player in NFL history with 500 for his career in the regular season. While his plans for the final two games appear clear, his playing future beyond this season is uncertain. Rodgers has another year left on his deal with the Jets, but the team is looking for a new general manager and head coach. Whether the quarterback will be part of the new regime's plans will be a major storyline this offseason. During an appearance Monday on “The Pat McAfee Show,” Rodgers suggested he could be released the day after the regular season ends. He said there's also a chance he could be retained but acknowledged he's going to take some time to decide if he even wants to play in a 21st NFL season. “I think anything is truly possible,” Rodgers said Tuesday of potentially being released. "Whether it happens or not, I’m sure that there will be decisions that, I don’t think there will be surprises where there’s like, ‘Oh, I don’t know what we want to do with certain people.’ I think there’s going to be some decisions that want to be made the day after the season or a couple days after the season, so I don’t know. I’m just not naive. “There’s not zero percent in my mind. I don’t think it’s a high percentage. I think there’s probably a conversation to be had, but I’m just not naive to that being a zero percent chance. I think it’s more than a zero percent chance and less than a certainty, so somewhere in the middle.” Rodgers said he hasn't spoken recently to owner Woody Johnson and doesn't necessarily think the lack of any indication of whether he's wanted back means he won't be. “I would be surprised if there was a conversation now because there’s so many uncertainties,” he said. “There’s a GM that has to get hired, I would assume first, and then he’s going to be part of hiring the head coach, so I have to be in the plans of multiple people, starting with the ownership and then the GM and then the head coach." Rodgers added that if he's told the Jets want him back, it would mean they see him as an important part of trying to change the culture of a team that hasn't made the postseason in 14 years. “That’d be special to hear that,” he said, “but if they don’t, again, no offense at all will be taken.” Fashanu had a solid first NFL season after being the 11th overall draft pick in April out of Penn State. He began the year as veteran Tyron Smith's backup before filling in at right tackle for two games when Morgan Moses was injured. Fashanu, who played only left tackle in college, also stepped in at right guard for an injured Alijah Vera-Tucker against Houston. When Smith was lost for the season with a neck injury last month, Fashanu took over as the starter and excelled in five starts. He was hurt midway through the fourth quarter against the Rams and was seen on crutches in the locker room after the game. Ulbrich said he believed Fashanu would need surgery, but the team later clarified that a procedure won't be required. “It's unfortunate,” Ulbrich said. “He's having a great rookie season. But at the same time, these injuries sometimes give you an opportunity to step back and really start absorbing some of the information as you were kind of thrown into the fire. He'll use it as an opportunity to grow, I know that.” The Jets signed veteran kicker Greg Joseph to the practice squad and he'll compete with Anders Carlson for the job this week. Ulbrich said Greg Zuerlein, on IR since late October with a knee injury, also could be in the mix. Carlson, the fourth kicker used by the Jets this season, missed an extra point and a 49-yard field goal try late in the fourth quarter against the Rams. He is 8 of 10 on field goal tries and 9 for 11 on extra points in five games with New York. “We'll see how it goes and we'll put the best guy out there,” Ulbrich said. AP NFL: https://apnews.com/hub/nflBy BEN FINLEY The Christmas tradition has become nearly global in scope: Children from around the world track Santa Claus as he sweeps across the earth, delivering presents and defying time. Related Articles National News | Heavy travel day off to a rough start after American Airlines briefly grounds all flights National News | Prosecutors withdraw appeal of dismissed case against Alec Baldwin in fatal movie set shooting National News | Today in History: December 24, former defense secretary pardoned in Iran-Contra scandal National News | Judge rules Arkansas law allowing criminal charges against librarians is unconstitutional National News | Bill Clinton is hospitalized with a fever but in good spirits, spokesperson says Each year, at least 100,000 kids call into the North American Aerospace Defense Command to inquire about Santa’s location. Millions more follow online in nine languages , from English to Japanese. On any other night, NORAD is scanning the heavens for potential threats , such as last year’s Chinese spy balloon . But on Christmas Eve, volunteers in Colorado Springs are fielding questions like, “When is Santa coming to my house?” and, “Am I on the naughty or nice list?” “There are screams and giggles and laughter,” said Bob Sommers, 63, a civilian contractor and NORAD volunteer. Sommers often says on the call that everyone must be asleep before Santa arrives, prompting parents to say, “Do you hear what he said? We got to go to bed early.” NORAD’s annual tracking of Santa has endured since the Cold War , predating ugly sweater parties and Mariah Carey classics . The tradition continues regardless of government shutdowns, such as the one in 2018 , and this year . Here’s how it began and why the phones keep ringing. It started with a child’s accidental phone call in 1955. The Colorado Springs newspaper printed a Sears advertisement that encouraged children to call Santa, listing a phone number. A boy called. But he reached the Continental Air Defense Command, now NORAD, a joint U.S. and Canadian effort to spot potential enemy attacks. Tensions were growing with the Soviet Union, along with anxieties about nuclear war. Air Force Col. Harry W. Shoup picked up an emergency-only “red phone” and was greeted by a tiny voice that began to recite a Christmas wish list. “He went on a little bit, and he takes a breath, then says, ‘Hey, you’re not Santa,’” Shoup told The Associated Press in 1999. Realizing an explanation would be lost on the youngster, Shoup summoned a deep, jolly voice and replied, “Ho, ho, ho! Yes, I am Santa Claus. Have you been a good boy?” Shoup said he learned from the boy’s mother that Sears mistakenly printed the top-secret number. He hung up, but the phone soon rang again with a young girl reciting her Christmas list. Fifty calls a day followed, he said. In the pre-digital age, the agency used a 60-by-80 foot (18-by-24 meter) plexiglass map of North America to track unidentified objects. A staff member jokingly drew Santa and his sleigh over the North Pole. The tradition was born. “Note to the kiddies,” began an AP story from Colorado Springs on Dec. 23, 1955. “Santa Claus Friday was assured safe passage into the United States by the Continental Air Defense Command.” In a likely reference to the Soviets, the article noted that Santa was guarded against possible attack from “those who do not believe in Christmas.” Some grinchy journalists have nitpicked Shoup’s story, questioning whether a misprint or a misdial prompted the boy’s call. In 2014, tech news site Gizmodo cited an International News Service story from Dec. 1, 1955, about a child’s call to Shoup. Published in the Pasadena Independent, the article said the child reversed two digits in the Sears number. “When a childish voice asked COC commander Col. Harry Shoup, if there was a Santa Claus at the North Pole, he answered much more roughly than he should — considering the season: ‘There may be a guy called Santa Claus at the North Pole, but he’s not the one I worry about coming from that direction,’” Shoup said in the brief piece. In 2015, The Atlantic magazine doubted the flood of calls to the secret line, while noting that Shoup had a flair for public relations. Phone calls aside, Shoup was indeed media savvy. In 1986, he told the Scripps Howard News Service that he recognized an opportunity when a staff member drew Santa on the glass map in 1955. A lieutenant colonel promised to have it erased. But Shoup said, “You leave it right there,” and summoned public affairs. Shoup wanted to boost morale for the troops and public alike. “Why, it made the military look good — like we’re not all a bunch of snobs who don’t care about Santa Claus,” he said. Shoup died in 2009. His children told the StoryCorps podcast in 2014 that it was a misprinted Sears ad that prompted the phone calls. “And later in life he got letters from all over the world,” said Terri Van Keuren, a daughter. “People saying ‘Thank you, Colonel, for having, you know, this sense of humor.’” NORAD’s tradition is one of the few modern additions to the centuries-old Santa story that have endured, according to Gerry Bowler, a Canadian historian who spoke to the AP in 2010. Ad campaigns or movies try to “kidnap” Santa for commercial purposes, said Bowler, who wrote “Santa Claus: A Biography.” NORAD, by contrast, takes an essential element of Santa’s story and views it through a technological lens. In a recent interview with the AP, Air Force Lt. Gen. Case Cunningham explained that NORAD radars in Alaska and Canada —- known as the northern warning system — are the first to detect Santa. He leaves the North Pole and typically heads for the international dateline in the Pacific Ocean. From there he moves west, following the night. “That’s when the satellite systems we use to track and identify targets of interest every single day start to kick in,” Cunningham said. “A probably little-known fact is that Rudolph’s nose that glows red emanates a lot of heat. And so those satellites track (Santa) through that heat source.” NORAD has an app and website, www.noradsanta.org , that will track Santa on Christmas Eve from 4 a.m. to midnight, mountain standard time. People can call 1-877-HI-NORAD to ask live operators about Santa’s location from 6 a.m. to midnight, mountain time.
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TORONTO, Nov. 25, 2024 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) -- Element Fleet Management Corp. (TSX:EFN) ("Element" or the "Company"), the largest publicly traded, pure-play automotive fleet manager in the world announces the validation of its science-based targets by the Science Based Targets initiative (SBTi), available at sciencebasedtargets.org. This milestone underscores Element's commitment to emissions reduction, demonstrating continued leadership in sustainability within the fleet management industry. The SBTi promotes science-based greenhouse gas (GHG) reduction targets for companies, aiming to limit global temperature rise to 1.5°C above pre-industrial levels. Its certification standards have become the global benchmark for corporate climate goals aligned with the Paris Agreement. With the SBTi validation, Element commits to the following near-term science-based targets: "As we live our Purpose to Move the world through intelligent mobility , we are working towards a future beyond the immediate horizon. This acknowledgement by the SBTi is a testament of our strategic commitment to sustainability, reinforcing our focus on accountability and transparency. It underscores our dedication to delivering lasting value for our clients, our business, our team members, and our communities,” states David Colman, Chief Legal & Sustainability Officer. "The fleet management industry has both the opportunity and obligation to be part of the solution. The SBTi validation strengthens our commitment to measurable sustainability initiatives. Our focus remains on advancing decarbonization and electrification strategies as we drive meaningful progress towards a low-carbon future”, says Sheri McGrath, VP, Sustainability at Element. A science-based approach provides Element with a clearly defined pathway to reduce its GHG emissions, contribute to global climate goals, and help to mitigate the most severe impacts of climate change. By aligning its targets with the latest climate science, Element is taking steps to strengthen the resilience of its business and contribute meaningfully to broader climate initiatives. Element notes that commitments and targets are aspirational and may be influenced by near-term global challenges including, but not limited to, the production and availability of electric vehicles, client decisions, prevalence and availability of charging infrastructure, and government support of electrification in the regions in which we operate. Element's 2034 goals reflect its best efforts at this point in time. The Company may reassess and update its methodologies and targets, as appropriate, and may not be able to achieve its commitments and targets, including for the reasons set forth herein. For more information on the validation and Element's sustainability initiatives, please visit www.elementfleet.com/sustainability . About Element Fleet Management Element Fleet Management (TSX:EFN) is the largest publicly traded pure-play automotive fleet manager in the world, providing the full range of fleet services and solutions to a growing base of world-class clients - corporations, governments, and not-for-profits - across North America, Australia, and New Zealand. Element's services address every aspect of clients' fleet requirements, from vehicle acquisition, maintenance, accidents and remarketing, to integrating EVs and managing the complexity of gradual fleet electrification. Clients benefit from Element's expertise as one of the largest fleet solutions providers in its markets, offering economies of scale and insight used to reduce fleet operating costs and improve productivity and performance. For more information, visit: https://www.elementfleet.com/sustainability About the Science Based Targets initiative The Science Based Targets initiative (SBTi) is a collaboration between CDP, the United Nations Global Compact, World Resources Institute (WRI) and the World Wide Fund for Nature (WWF). The SBTi defines and promotes best practice in science-based target setting and independently assesses companies' targets. This press release contains certain forward-looking statements and forward-looking information regarding Element, its business and the fleet industry, which are based upon Element's current expectations, estimates, projections, assumptions and beliefs. In some cases, words such as "plan”, "expect”, "intend”, "believe”, "anticipate”, "estimate”, "may”, "could”, "predict”, "project”, "model”, "forecast”, "will”, "potential”, "target, "by”, "proposed” and other similar words, or statements that certain events or conditions "may” or "will” occur are intended to identify forward-looking statements and forward-looking information. These statements are not guarantees of future performance and involve known and unknown risks, uncertainties and other factors that may cause actual results or events to differ materially from those anticipated in the forward-looking statements or information. Forward-looking statements and information in this news release may include, but are not limited to, statements with respect to, among other things, the Company's expectations regarding the fleet industry and electrification, the Company's sustainability targets and objectives, including science based targets, Element's and our clients' greenhouse gas emissions, fleet electrification, and transition of client vehicles, charging access, decarbonization strategies, future climate reporting, potential climate related opportunities, diverse supplier spending, team member engagement, making a difference in the community, data governance, ethics and compliance, and other sustainability related impacts, objectives and expectations. By their nature, these statements require us to make assumptions and are subject to inherent risks and uncertainties that may be general or specific, which give rise to the possibility that our predictions, forecasts, projections, expectations or conclusions will not prove to be accurate, that our assumptions may not be correct and that our sustainability priorities, targets (including fleet electrification and GHG reduction targets), commitments and goals will not be achieved. As we work to advance our sustainability strategy, external factors outside of Element's reasonable control may impact our performance and ability to achieve our goals, including government policies, legislation and regulatory actions, global supply-chain disruptions, geopolitical risk, the occurrence, continuance or intensification of public health emergencies, such as the impact of post-pandemic hybrid work arrangements, the failure of third parties to comply with their obligations to us and our affiliates or associates, our ability to implement various sustainability-related initiatives internally and with our clients under expected timeframes, the availability of comprehensive and high-quality GHG emissions data and standardization of sustainability-related measurement methodologies, the need for active and continuing participation, cooperation and collaboration from various stakeholders, deployment of new technologies and industry-specific solutions, the evolution of client behaviour, varying decarbonization efforts across economies, manufacturer timing and availability, client decisions and preferences, the need for thoughtful climate policies globally, the challenges of balancing interim emissions goals with an orderly transition, and the continuing development and evolution of regulations, guidelines, principles, and frameworks internationally and Element's compliance thereto, which could lead to us to being subject to various legal and regulatory proceedings, the potential outcome of which could include regulatory restrictions, penalties and fines. These and other factors may cause actual results to differ materially from the expectations expressed in the forward-looking statements and may require Element to adapt its initiatives and activities or adjust its commitments, metrics, targets and goals. The forward-looking statements in this news release speak only as of the date hereof and are presented for the purpose of assisting our stakeholders and others in understanding our objectives and strategic priorities and may not be appropriate for other purposes. We do not undertake to update any forward-looking statement except as required by law. In addition, a discussion of some of the material risks affecting Element and its business appears under the heading "Risk Management” in Element's Management Discussion and Analysis for the twelve-month period ended December 31, 2023 and the three and nine-month period ended September 30, 2024, and under the heading "Risk Factors” in Element's Annual Information Form for the year ended December 31, 2023, as well as Element's other filings with the Canadian securities regulatory authorities, which have been filed on SEDAR+ and can be accessed on Element's profile on www.sedarplus.com . CONTACT: Investor Relations Contact: Rocco Colella Director, Investor Relations (437) 349-3796 [email protected] Media Contact: Amanda Mills Sirois Senior Manager, Corporate Affairs (437) 352-1050 [email protected]
NEW YORK, Dec. 24, 2024 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) -- Color Star Technology Co., Ltd. (Nasdaq: ADD) ("Color Star" or the "Company"), an entertainment technology company with a global network that focuses on the application of technology and artificial intelligence in the entertainment industry, announces today that His Highness Shaikh Humaid Abdulla Rashed Ahmed Almualla, a prominent member of the United Arab Emirates royal family, has officially joined the company as an independent director of the Company’s board of directors. This appointment not only introduces strong leadership to Color Star but also strengthens the company's ties with the Middle East, particularly the UAE. His Highness Shaikh Humaid Abdulla Rashed Ahmed Almualla is a distinguished figure in UAE politics, wielding considerable influence in the Al Mualla region. As a core member of the ruling family of the Umm Al-Quwain Emirate, he plays a vital role on the UAE's political stage. Born in Ajman, the nation's capital, His Highness Shaikh Humaid is also the nephew of the current UAE President, a connection that underscores his esteemed reputation both domestically and internationally. The Al Mualla family, one of the oldest royal lineages in the Middle East, has historically governed the Umm Al-Quwain Emirate. In June 2023, His Highness Shaikh Humaid spearheaded the launch of the UAE Royal HH Investment Fund, a venture that garnered enthusiastic support from royal families and government officials in Saudi Arabia, Oman, Kuwait, and Qatar. Beyond his financial achievements, His Highness Shaikh Humaid’s appointment as an independent director on Color Star’s board of directors brings fresh perspectives and strategic insights to the company. Having a member of the UAE royal family join Color Star is expected to unlock new investment opportunities and project support, accelerating Color Star's continuous planned investment and innovation in AI entertainment and related technologies. Leveraging these resources, Color Star aims to develop cutting-edge technologies and deliver richer, more innovative entertainment experiences to global audiences. His Highness Shaikh Humaid ’s extensive network will undoubtedly energize Color Star's globalization strategy, paving the way for even greater success on the international stage. About Color Star Technology Co., Ltd. Color Star Technology Co., Ltd. (Nasdaq: ADD) is an entertainment and education company that provides online entertainment performances and online music education services. Its business operations are conducted through its wholly-owned subsidiaries, Color Metaverse Pte. Ltd. and CACM Group NY, Inc. The Company ’s online education is provided through its Color World music and entertainment education platform. More information about the Company can be found at www.colorstarinternational.com and www.colorstar.investorroom.com . Forward-Looking Statement This press release contains forward-looking statements as defined by the Private Securities Litigation Reform Act of 1995. Forward-looking statements include statements concerning plans, objectives, goals, strategies, future events or performance, and underlying assumptions and other statements that are other than statements of historical facts. When the Company uses words such as "may," "will," "intend," "should," "believe," "expect," "anticipate," "project," "estimate" or similar expressions that do not relate solely to historical matters, it is making forward-looking statements. Forward-looking statements are not guarantee of future performance and involve risks and uncertainties that may cause the actual results to differ materially from the Company's expectations discussed in the forward-looking statements. These statements are subject to uncertainties and risks including, but not limited to, the following: the Company's goals and strategies; the Company's future business development, including the development of the metaverse project; product and service demand and acceptance; changes in technology; economic conditions; the growth of the educational and training services market internationally where ADD conducts its business; reputation and brand; the impact of competition and pricing; government regulations; the occurrence of any event, change or other circumstances that could give rise to the terms of the LOI nothereafter being memorialized in a definitive agreement; the outcome of any legal proceedings that have been, or will be, instituted against Color Star or other parties to the LOI following announcement of the LOI and transactions contemplated therein; the ability of Color Star to meet NASDAQ listing standards in connection with the consummation of the transaction contemplated therein; the inability to complete the transactions contemplated by the LOI due to the failure to meet certain closing conditions; risks that the proposed transaction disrupts current plans and operations and the potential difficulties in employee retention as a result of the announcement of the LOI and consummation of the transaction described therein; costs related to the proposed acquisition; changes in applicable laws or regulations; the ability of the combined company to meet its financial and strategic goals, due to, among other things, competition, the ability of the combined company to grow and manage growth profitability, maintain relationships with customers and retain its key employees; the possibility that the combined company may be adversely affected by other economic, business, and/or competitive factors; and other risks and uncertainties described herein, as well as those risks and uncertainties discussed from time to time in other reports and other public filings with the Securities and Exchange Commission by Color Star. For these reasons, among others, investors are cautioned not to place undue reliance upon any forward-looking statements in this press release. Additional factors are discussed in the Company's filings with the U.S. Securities and Exchange Commission, which are available for review at www.sec.gov. The Company undertakes no obligation to publicly revise these forward–looking statements to reflect events or circumstances that arise after the date hereof unless required by applicable laws, regulations or rules. For more information, please contact: Color Star Investor Relations Office Number No. 1003, 9th Floor, 7 World Trade Center, Suite 4621 New York NY 10007 Office: (212) 410-5186 Email ir@colorstarint ernational.com
DAYTONA BEACH, Fla. (AP) — Aniwaniwa Tait-Jones' 21 points helped UC San Diego defeat James Madison 73-67 on Friday night. Tait-Jones also contributed six rebounds for the Tritons (4-2). Hayden Gray scored 16 points and added four steals. Nordin Kapic went 5 of 8 from the field (1 for 4 from 3-point range) to finish with 12 points. Bryce Lindsay led the way for the Dukes (3-3) with 17 points. James Madison also got 13 points and four assists from Xavier Brown. Story continues below video UCSD went into halftime ahead of James Madison 34-28. Tait-Jones scored 14 points in the half. UCSD took the lead for good with 5:46 left in the second half on a free throw from Tait-Jones to make it a 58-57 game. The Associated Press created this story using technology provided by Data Skrive and data from Sportradar .
Actor Prajakta Mali on Saturday slammed BJP MLA Suresh Dhas for allegedly dragging her name in his attempt to target NCP minister Dhananjay Munde in the , reported the PTI. The row began after Dhas spoke about "event management politics" and "Parli pattern" while attacking Munde. Santosh Deshmukh, the sarpanch of Massajog, was abducted, tortured and murdered in Beed on December 9 for attempting to thwart an extortion bid on an energy firm. While several persons have been arrested so far, a political tussle is underway over Walmik Karad, an accused in the extortion case linked to the murder and who is reportedly a close aide of Parli MLA Dhananjay Munde, according to the PTI. Addressing a press conference, Prajakta Mali said Dhas' comments were in bad taste, entirely baseless and asserted women, especially actors, should not be made soft targets, as per the PTI. Prajakta Mali said that her silence over video clips and fake news circulating over the past one-and-half months on social media pertaining to her visit to Parli for a cultural event should not seen as "my consent". "Artistes choose to stay away from such mudslinging. But Suresh Dhas is an elected representative and what he says and the manner in which he says it have to be taken seriously. Dhas' remarks are false and baseless. His remarks linking me to Dhananjay Munde are derogatory," the actor emphasised. She said her family and friends believed in her when such negativity was being spread on social media but it needs to be taken seriously when an MLA makes such comments. Mali said she has sought a public apology from Dhas and is contemplating legal action against the Ashti MLA. "I had been to Parli for a cultural event, an award function. Artistes like me travel to several cities to entertain audiences. Why name just women? Haven't male actors attended such programmes organised by politicians? Dhas has used my name for his selfish interests," she said, the news agency reported. Asserting that such comments not only malign women but also show a person's mindset, Mali informed that she has lodged a complaint with the Maharashtra State Women's Commission. Dhas, meanwhile, said there was no question of apologising to Mali and asserted he had not said anything objectionable. "I don't know her and she is not my enemy. She should rewind and hear what I said yesterday," Dhas said, as per the PTI. The actor said she will meet seeking that social media platforms, portals and media be held accountable for maligning women. Incidentally, Maharashtra BJP chief Chandrashekhar Bawankule has asked Dhas to desist from publicly attacking Munde over the sarpanch murder case. "I will ask Dhas to share any information he possesses directly with the chief minister rather than going public. I will tell him not to make any comments which will hamper the (murder) probe, " Chandrashekhar Bawankule told reporters on Friday, the PTI reported. (with PTI inputs)Aaron Rodgers insists there's nothing uncertain about his status for the New York Jets' game Sunday at Buffalo. “There's no way I'm not playing,” the quarterback said during a video call Tuesday. Rodgers acknowledged he has “a little MCL” issue in a knee, but added: “I've had a lot worse. I lucked out. I avoided major stretchage of the MCL.” Rodgers was hurt in the Jets’ 19-9 loss to the Los Angeles Rams last Sunday but remained in the game. “I’m gonna play,” Rodgers said of the game against the Bills. “It feels pretty good.” Rookie left tackle Olu Fashanu’s promising first season is over, though, as the first-round pick was placed on injured reserve with an injury to the plantar fascia in his left foot. Interim coach Jeff Ulbrich said earlier Tuesday that it was “just too early to tell” what Rodgers' availability might be, but he was optimistic about the 41-year-old quarterback's chances. “If I’m a betting man," Ulbrich said, “I’m betting on Aaron Rodgers to play.” Rodgers said he didn't need an MRI on the knee, the latest ailment in what has been an injury-filled season. He earlier dealt with knee, hamstring and ankle issues that hindered his play at times. One of the four-time MVP's goals entering the season was playing in all 17 games after being limited to four snaps in his debut last year because of a torn Achilles tendon. “I definitely felt like at midseason that was going to be difficult,” Rodgers said of playing in every game. “But right now, it looks like, for sure, 16. And hopefully get through this one and get to 17.” The Jets held a walkthrough Tuesday and their next full practice is Thursday, giving Rodgers some extra time to recover. Rodgers has 24 touchdown passes and eight interceptions this season, and he's one TD throw from becoming the fifth player in NFL history with 500 for his career in the regular season. While his plans for the final two games appear clear, his playing future beyond this season is uncertain. Rodgers has another year left on his deal with the Jets, but the team is looking for a new general manager and head coach. Whether the quarterback will be part of the new regime's plans will be a major storyline this offseason. During an appearance Monday on “The Pat McAfee Show,” Rodgers suggested he could be released the day after the regular season ends. He said there's also a chance he could be retained but acknowledged he's going to take some time to decide if he even wants to play in a 21st NFL season. “I think anything is truly possible,” Rodgers said Tuesday of potentially being released. "Whether it happens or not, I’m sure that there will be decisions that, I don’t think there will be surprises where there’s like, ‘Oh, I don’t know what we want to do with certain people.’ I think there’s going to be some decisions that want to be made the day after the season or a couple days after the season, so I don’t know. I’m just not naive. “There’s not zero percent in my mind. I don’t think it’s a high percentage. I think there’s probably a conversation to be had, but I’m just not naive to that being a zero percent chance. I think it’s more than a zero percent chance and less than a certainty, so somewhere in the middle.” Rodgers said he hasn't spoken recently to owner Woody Johnson and doesn't necessarily think the lack of any indication of whether he's wanted back means he won't be. “I would be surprised if there was a conversation now because there’s so many uncertainties,” he said. “There’s a GM that has to get hired, I would assume first, and then he’s going to be part of hiring the head coach, so I have to be in the plans of multiple people, starting with the ownership and then the GM and then the head coach." Rodgers added that if he's told the Jets want him back, it would mean they see him as an important part of trying to change the culture of a team that hasn't made the postseason in 14 years. “That’d be special to hear that,” he said, “but if they don’t, again, no offense at all will be taken.” Fashanu had a solid first NFL season after being the 11th overall draft pick in April out of Penn State. He began the year as veteran Tyron Smith's backup before filling in at right tackle for two games when Morgan Moses was injured. Fashanu, who played only left tackle in college, also stepped in at right guard for an injured Alijah Vera-Tucker against Houston. When Smith was lost for the season with a neck injury last month, Fashanu took over as the starter and excelled in five starts. He was hurt midway through the fourth quarter against the Rams and was seen on crutches in the locker room after the game. Ulbrich said he believed Fashanu would need surgery, but the team later clarified that a procedure won't be required. “It's unfortunate,” Ulbrich said. “He's having a great rookie season. But at the same time, these injuries sometimes give you an opportunity to step back and really start absorbing some of the information as you were kind of thrown into the fire. He'll use it as an opportunity to grow, I know that.” The Jets signed veteran kicker Greg Joseph to the practice squad and he'll compete with Anders Carlson for the job this week. Ulbrich said Greg Zuerlein, on IR since late October with a knee injury, also could be in the mix. Carlson, the fourth kicker used by the Jets this season, missed an extra point and a 49-yard field goal try late in the fourth quarter against the Rams. He is 8 of 10 on field goal tries and 9 for 11 on extra points in five games with New York. “We'll see how it goes and we'll put the best guy out there,” Ulbrich said. AP NFL: https://apnews.com/hub/nfl
Nebraska holds on to beat Boston College 20-15 in Pinstripe Bowl for 1st bowl victory since 2015The NBA on Saturday suspended three players for their roles in an on-court clash during Friday's game between the Dallas Mavericks and the Phoenix Suns. Dallas forward Naji Marshall was suspended for four games and Suns center Jusuf Nurkic for three while Mavericks forward P.J Washington will sit out one game. The incident came with 9:02 remaining in the third quarter when Nurkic committed on offensive foul on Dallas's Daniel Gifford. "Marshall and Nurkic then engaged in an on-court altercation. Nurkic escalated it by swinging his arm and striking Marshall on top of his head. Marshall responded by throwing a punch that connected with Nurkic's face," the NBA said in a statement. "As the officials and other players attempted to diffuse the situation, Washington further escalated the altercation by shoving Nurkic to the floor. For their roles, Marshall, Nurkic and Washington were assessed technical fouls and ejected from the game," the league added. Marshall late confronted Nurkic near the locker rooms, in a "hostile manner" according to the NBA. The NBA said the players will not be paid during their suspension periods. sev/bb
ABU DHABI, (UrduPoint / Pakistan Point News / WAM - 28th Dec, 2024) The United Emirates has welcomed the diplomatic efforts of the brotherly Republic of Türkiye to resolve the ongoing crisis in , which also represents a priority for the . The emphasised that these efforts reflect Türkiye’s steadfast commitment to promoting regional peace and stability, and contributing to the strengthening of international relations. The is fully prepared to cooperate and coordinate with the Turkish efforts and diplomatic initiatives to end the conflict in and find a comprehensive solution to the crisis. In a statement, the Ministry of Foreign Affairs (MoFA) reaffirmed the ’s steadfast position in relation to the crisis, stressing that the focus remains on reaching an immediate ceasefire and an urgent cessation of hostilities in the internal fighting in between the Rapid Support Forces and the Sudanese Armed Forces, while also addressing the catastrophic humanitarian crisis through the provision of urgent relief aid to the brotherly Sudanese people. The Ministry emphasised that the is working with relevant parties, regional partners, and the international community to find a peaceful solution to the crisis, in an effort to stop the escalation, achieve a ceasefire, and begin an intra-Sudanese dialogue that involves political factions and the warring parties to fulfill the aspirations of the Sudanese people for development, security, and prosperity. Moreover, the stresses the importance of the warring parties’ respecting their commitments under the Declaration, and the mechanisms proposed by the Aligned for Advancing Lifesaving and Peace in (ALPS) Group. The Ministry highlighted that the absence of the Sudanese Armed Forces the latest peace talks – which the participated in, alongside several countries and regional and international organisations, as part of the ALPS Group in – demonstrates a blatant disregard for the suffering of the brotherly Sudanese people, and reflects their strong unwillingness to cooperate and engage in peace talks aimed at resolving the crisis and achieving lasting peace. Furthermore, the underscored the importance of dialogue and negotiations as the only path to resolve the conflict and secure a political process and national consensus towards a civilian-led . The continues to call on the concerned parties to return to negotiations and actively engage in efforts to achieve peace in .