
Smokers who quit for a week could save a day of their life, experts sayThe Yomiuri Shimbun 6:00 JST, November 24, 2024 This is the third installment in a series examining how society should deal with generative artificial intelligence (AI). Kento Kawaharazuka, a project assistant professor at the University of Tokyo, had a pleased look while recently working at a laboratory in Bunkyo Ward, Tokyo, as a humanoid robot successfully put butter in a frying pan, turned on a stove and put a raw egg into the pan from a bowl to make a sunny-side up egg. “Although it’s a little burnt, it looks good,” said Kawaharazuka after watching the cooking experiment. “The robot moved well.” The instruction given to the robot was simple: “Make a sunny-side up egg using butter.” The robot, which is equipped with generative AI, acted autonomously while recognizing when the butter melted and how the egg was cooked, among other things. Since conventional robots need to be taught how to use each tool and perform each necessary task in advance, it takes a huge amount of time and effort to just make them repeat the same movements. The AI-equipped robot, however, was able to perform a variety of actions as it had learned from not only text information and images, but also videos as data. “This is a major turning point in robot development. I feel like robots have acquired the ‘common sense’ that humans have,” said Kawaharazuka who has been doing research on generative AI robots for two years. Expectations are growing, particularly in industrial circles, for robots that have acquired generative AI as their “brains.” The global market for AI robots is expected to rapidly grow from about $12 billion (¥1.9 trillion) in 2022 to about $70 billion (¥11 trillion) in 2031, according to a consulting firm. AI-equipped robots also are being used for customer interactions. Denso Corp., a leading manufacturer of automotive components, conducted experiments in January using an AI-equipped arm-type robot at a souvenir shop in Nagoya. The robot asked customers if they are on their way home from work or if this is their first visit to Nagoya, for instance, before choosing souvenir recommendations such as alcoholic drinks and sweets based on the content of its conversation with customers. The robot then handed the products to customers using its arm. Watching the robot’s ability to choose products flexibly based on the topics of conversation, Masatake Sato of Denso’s development team said the robot could be used not only in customer interactions but also in a wide range of areas such as looking after children or providing nursing care. AI robots seem to be rapidly evolving as a partner of humans, transcending the realm of tools. Will we eventually see the appearance of AI robots that transcend human beings, like Doraemon or Astro Boy? Hitoshi Matsubara, an AI researcher and Kyoto Tachibana University professor, spoke of a parable about an AI robot with advanced intelligence. It says that the robot, ordered to solve environmental problems, decides that humans are the ones polluting and destroying the Earth, and starts to wipe out the human race. AI that has no sense of ethics or standards of right and wrong may seek to achieve its goals even if it means harming humans. “Even if AI appears to be equipped with common sense, the intelligence of humans and that of AI are different,” Matsubara emphasized. “It is essential to closely examine under what conditions society can accept AI, for instance, when it enters our lives.”Retiring Texas Chief Justice reflects on court he helped change
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Former NHLer and now media personality Jay Rosehill wasn’t too happy after hearing comments made from Edmonton Oilers defenceman Darnell Nurse regarding Ryan Reaves. Nurse, who has yet to play since taking a high hit from Reaves last Saturday, made it clear that , one that resulted in a five-game suspension for the Toronto Maple Leafs enforcer. “You can argue about the intent, but there are certain guys in this league that, each shift, they go out there and try and go inflict pain,” Nurse told reporters yesterday. “I think it was pretty obvious what was going on there.” It was reported that Reaves was able to find the Oilers blue liner not long after the hit in an attempt to apologize, though that didn’t seem to change Nurse’s perception. Now, Rosehill is getting involved. Speaking on Leafs Morning Take, Rosehill not only criticized Nurse for skating around the net with his head down, but also seemed to have an issue with the physical blue liner suggesting Reaves was trying to hurt him. “Darnell is a guy who has played the game hard; he’s thrown big hits before. Darnell, you’ve taken off your glove to punch other players with a barehanded fist. Are you out there to hurt guys? No,” Rosehill said. “He’s playing hard and playing within the game, the game within the game. That’s what Revo is doing. Do you honestly think Revo wouldn’t have rather made that hit eight inches behind and caught your shoulder? He would’ve blown you up to kingdom come and stood over you saying, ‘Choo choo, Darnell.’ “Darnell’s wheeling the net like it’s a Sunday beer skate, forgetting he’s in the NHL with a fourth-line forward forechecking him. Revo screws up, catches only his head, wraps it around the other side of his body. It’s a bad look. It’s the last thing that Ryan Reaves wanted. ... If he caught your shoulder, he would’ve blown you into the third deck.” Though Nurse has yet to return, he was able to skate with his teammates yesterday, indicating he’s making solid progress in his recovery. Regardless of what side of the argument one falls in, everybody can agree that given all the attention this entire situation has received, these two teams going head-to-head once again on February 1 is going to be a must-watch game.
CORAL GABLES, Fla. (AP) — Miami probably was one win away from getting into the College Football Playoff. Iowa State definitely was one win away. Their consolation prize of sorts: playing one another. The Hurricanes and Cyclones — a meteorological matchup — have accepted bids to the Pop-Tarts Bowl, to be played Dec. 28 in Orlando, Florida. Iowa State (10-3) is looking for its first 11-win season in the program's 133-year history, and Miami (10-2) is seeking its first 11-win season since 2003. Miami's loss at Syracuse to close the regular season wound up being the game the Hurricanes could point to as the reason they missed out on the CFP. Iowa State could have played its way in and lost the Big 12 title game to CFP-bound Arizona State on Saturday. “I think everyone that doesn't get in feels disappointment,” Miami coach Mario Cristobal said. “We feel the onus of just doing better. Just do better, go forward, have an opportunity to get better.” It's essentially the same task for both teams: regrouping after seeing the playoff slip away. “I think that’s what’s made Iowa State football really special is our ability to have great resiliency," Cyclones coach Matt Campbell said. "And I know our kids are super-excited about the opportunity to finish off. Obviously (Saturday) was disappointing. But this group and this football team has the opportunity to just continue to fight.” A big question for Miami: whether quarterback Cam Ward will play. The likely Heisman Trophy finalist has thrown for 155 touchdown passes in his career at Incarnate Word, Washington State and Miami. That’s tied for the most by anyone in Division I (FBS and FCS) history; Case Keenum threw 155 in his career at Houston. Many draft-bound players not in the playoff will be opting out of bowl games over the coming weeks. There's been no indication from Miami yet that Ward or any other draft-bound player has made a decision. “I think it’s important that our guys, anyone playing and closing out the season, understands the importance of that next step for a program like ours," Cristobal said. "And I think our guys do.” Get poll alerts and updates on the AP Top 25 throughout the season. Sign up here . AP college football: https://apnews.com/hub/ap-top-25-college-football-poll and https://apnews.com/hub/college-football
Jimmy Carter wore a button-down shirt in Khartoum. It was a sweltering morning and the sun shone on the Nile as the clamorous city was rousing to life. Carter was in the Sudanese capital to monitor the 2010 election that was certain to extend the rule of autocrat Omar Hassan Ahmed Bashir, who had been indicted on international charges of crimes against humanity. Carter was not deterred. He believed the first multiparty election in decades — no matter how flawed — would bring the war-scarred country closer to democracy. His blue eyes agleam, his trousers pressed, the former president, a wanderer accustomed to the planet's cruel and harsh predicaments, offered coffee and pastries in his hotel room. He was optimistic but knew well what could happen when leaders with outsize ambitions controlled holy men and armies. I was in town covering the story for the Los Angeles Times, and a representative from the Carter Center called and invited me to breakfast. Carter, who died Sunday at 100 , was president when I was a teenager. I knew him well from TV — that swoop of hair, Southern accent and disarming resolve that confronted a post-Watergate world of gas lines, inflation, the Iranian hostage crisis and a sense that America was adrift. His presidency had been much maligned. But his second act as humanitarian, house builder, Guinea worm exterminator and Nobel Peace Prize winner was a portrait of perseverance and grace. An aide greeted me when I entered the hotel room. She quietly vanished. Carter walked in and sat on a small couch. Coffee was poured. A Danish slid onto a plate, a bit of fruit. Fishing boats were busy in the currents below and tea ladies dressed in plumes of colors stoked fires beneath blackened kettles on the corners. Carter spoke about Sudan — its possibilities and dangers, and the fact that in coming months the country's south, with its vast oil reserves, would hold an independence referendum on whether to secede from the north. Would Bashir relinquish the south to let it be governed by a former enemy in a cowboy hat, who presided over a territory with fewer than 100 miles of paved roads and a population that was 80% illiterate? Carter knew the personalities and pitfalls, the egos and secrets, the maps and ledgers. He had traveled across Sudan; years earlier he'd brokered a ceasefire in its civil war. He always went to the source, to places of refugees, poverty, disease and despair. To see and bear witness, much like the Bible school teacher he was back in Plains, Ga. He didn't know what would happen. But he had hope. The sun rose higher in the midmorning sky. The room quieted. "You're based in Cairo," he said. "Yes." He leaned closer. "Tell me about things," he said. "What's happening?" I felt like I was being quizzed by a man who had read countless dossiers and was intimate with the rise and fall of power. It was at once intimidating and bracing. The restlessness and anger in the Arab world were nearing a breaking point that would erupt months later. Tunisia would ignite into nationwide protests. An uprising in Egypt would bring down President Hosni Mubarak. Tremors would spread from Syria and Yemen and from Libya to Bahrain. There were few inklings when we met of what would unfold, but the Middle East that Carter had spent so much time navigating was about to come undone yet again. He mostly wanted to discuss the Palestinian-Israeli conflict and the possibilities, no matter how remote, of any progress toward reconciliation on that front. In 1978, Carter had held talks at Camp David with Israeli Prime Minister Menachem Begin and Egyptian President Anwar Sadat that would lead to a historic peace treaty. Carter believed then — apparently wrongly, given the problems that would come — that the pact would bring wider regional stability. And he hoped it would one day lead to a two-state solution for Israelis and Palestinians. Carter would later face criticism for his opinions on the issue. Many Jews and others were angered by his 2006 book, "Palestine Peace Not Apartheid," which they saw as painting Israel as an aggressor and being overly sympathetic to Palestinians. Carter defended the book as well as his meetings with Hamas, which critics argued enhanced the stature of the militant group that the U.S. and Israel consider a terrorist organization. Carter later told an audience in Cairo that apartheid "is the exact description of what's happening in Palestine now." But his vision remained focused, his commitment to peace unwavering. Three years later, in his book "We Can Have Peace in the Holy Land," Carter wrote: "Everyone who engages in Middle East peacemaking is bound to make mistakes and suffer frustrations. Everyone must overcome the presence of hatred and fanaticism, and the memories of horrible tragedies. Everyone must face painful choices and failures in negotiations. Nevertheless, I am convinced that the time is ripe for peace in the region." It was questionable then, and appears no less easier now. Carter had been in hospice since before Hamas attacked Israel on Oct. 7 and killed some 1,200 people. Israel has been retaliating with an ongoing bombardment of the Gaza Strip that health authorities there say has killed more than 45,000 Palestinians. The Carter Center released a statement late last year saying: "The violence must stop now. There is no military solution to this crisis, only a political one that acknowledges the common humanity of both Israelis and Palestinians, respects the human rights of all, and creates a path for both societies to live side by side in peace." It would have been good to have heard Carter's own voice, his Southern-inflected resolve and traveler's wisdom. What struck me most in that Khartoum hotel room were his empathy and his insatiable need to know. He was relentless in his pursuit, to track down threads and unfold scenarios, to follow the great maneuverings and go where needed — like to Sudan, where years earlier he'd landed to try to help end fighting between Bashir's troops and rebels who later ascended to power in a new country. Bashir was overthrown in 2019, and Sudan is again in turmoil. It is difficult to mend the hard corners of the world. To find justice amid the stain of transgression. Carter's gift was his capacity to wonder; to know the bitter truths and imagine something better. ©2024 Los Angeles Times. Visit at latimes.com . Distributed by Tribune Content Agency, LLC.
Smokers who quit for a week could save a day of their life, experts say
As Victoria's ever-divided Liberal opposition meets to determine the future of the party, three contenders have put their hands up to replace embattled leader John Pesutto. or signup to continue reading Police spokesman Brad Battin, first-term MP Jess Wilson and Mornington MP Chris Crewther have announced their candidacy if a motion to challenge Mr Pesutto is successful. Before that takes place, the party must determine whether absent MPs can vote, which will be followed by a second vote on whether to return banished colleague Moira Deeming to the fold. After this, a spill motion is expected to be raised. Former party leader Michael O'Brien told reporters he would rather be at the cricket than in the party room but underscored the need for unity. "Unless we can win and hold government, then we can't enhance the freedom, prosperity and security of Victorians or Australians," Mr O'Brien said as he entered Parliament House.. "So we just need to knuckle down, get behind whatever decision is made today and win the next election for Victoria." Opposition financial spokeswoman Jess Wilson announced her candidacy after a deal to become leadership frontrunner Brad Battin's deputy came off the table. "The best way forward to defeat Jacinta Allan and Labor was with a unified leadership ticket," Ms Wilson said. "Unfortunately, it has been made clear to me that a unity ticket is no longer on the table. "Given that and after consulting my colleagues, I've decided to stand to offer them a choice." Mr Battin arrived for the vote flanked by supporters including Sam Groth, while Ms Wilson and Mr Pesutto entered parliament alone. Mr Pesutto entered the opposition party room with deputy David Southwick saying his thoughts were with Victorians experiencing bushfires and the first responders. "We'll deal with these matters in here but the most important thing for us in Victoria is to look out for each other," he said. Mr Crewther's eleventh-hour tilt at the top job came via an email to party members overnight, urging collegues for a "fresh start". "I hope that after today, whoever is chosen as a leader, we all unite behind that person, we all work together, because that's what the Victorians want, they don't want a divided team," he said entering the opposition party room. Mr Pesutto's job had been on shaky ground ever since he lost a defamation case brought against him by former colleague Moira Deeming. A Federal Court judge found the Liberal leader defamed Mrs Deeming by implying she was associated with Nazis who gatecrashed a controversial Melbourne rally she was at and ordered he pay her $315,000 and costs. Then came a shock when former tennis player-turned-politician Mr Groth quit his shadow cabinet post, citing his leader's refusal to stand down after the court loss. A party vote, brought on less than a week later to decide whether Mrs Deeming would be allowed back into the party, split the team down the centre with Mr Pesutto casting the tie-breaking vote to bar her from returning. The Hawthorn MP deemed the matter "resolved" only to propose a January 15 gathering to return the upper house MP to the fold a day later. But that last bid to quell tensions fell flat, with senior MPs Mr Groth, Richard Riordan, James Newbury, Mr Battin and Bridget Vallence signing a petition to meet on Friday to bring the issue to a head. The battle to helm Victoria's opposition comes less than two years before a pivotal state election at which the Labor government - increasingly on the nose with voters - will seek a rare fourth term. DAILY Today's top stories curated by our news team. WEEKDAYS Grab a quick bite of today's latest news from around the region and the nation. WEEKLY The latest news, results & expert analysis. WEEKDAYS Catch up on the news of the day and unwind with great reading for your evening. WEEKLY Get the editor's insights: what's happening & why it matters. WEEKLY Love footy? We've got all the action covered. WEEKLY Every Saturday and Tuesday, explore destinations deals, tips & travel writing to transport you around the globe. WEEKLY Going out or staying in? Find out what's on. WEEKDAYS Sharp. Close to the ground. Digging deep. Your weekday morning newsletter on national affairs, politics and more. TWICE WEEKLY Your essential national news digest: all the big issues on Wednesday and great reading every Saturday. WEEKLY Get news, reviews and expert insights every Thursday from CarExpert, ACM's exclusive motoring partner. TWICE WEEKLY Get real, Australia! Let the ACM network's editors and journalists bring you news and views from all over. AS IT HAPPENS Be the first to know when news breaks. DAILY Your digital replica of Today's Paper. Ready to read from 5am! DAILY Test your skills with interactive crosswords, sudoku & trivia. Fresh daily! Advertisement Advertisement
The Future of Power Distribution: How Busbars are Shaping Modern BuildingQuincy, MA, Dec. 20, 2024 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) -- Stran & Company, Inc. ("Stran" or the "Company") (NASDAQ: SWAG) (NASDAQ: SWAGW), a leading outsourced marketing solutions provider that leverages its promotional products and loyalty incentive expertise, today announced that on December 17, 2024, it received a letter from the Listing Qualifications staff (the “Staff”) of The Nasdaq Stock Market LLC (“Nasdaq”), issuing a Staff delisting determination (the “Staff Determination”). The Staff Determination noted that the Staff had notified the Company on June 21, 2024, August 23, 2024 and November 21, 2024 that the Company did not comply with Nasdaq Listing Rule 5250(c)(1) (the “Filing Rule”) because the Company had not filed its Quarterly Reports on Form 10-Q for the periods ended March 31, 2024, June 30, 2024, and September 30, 2024 (the “Forms 10-Q”) with the Securities and Exchange Commission (the “SEC”). The Staff Determination noted that, based on the Staff’s review and the materials submitted on August 20, 2024, the Staff granted the Company an exception until December 16, 2024 to regain compliance with the Filing Rule. The Staff Determination stated that the Company had not met the terms of the exception. Specifically, the Company has not filed the Forms 10-Q as required by the Filing Rule. The Staff Determination has no immediate effect and will not immediately result in the suspension of trading or delisting of the Company’s common stock. The Staff Determination notified the Company that the Company may request a hearing before a Hearings Panel (“Hearings Panel”), pursuant to the procedures set forth in the Nasdaq Listing Rule 5800 Series. Hearings are typically scheduled to occur approximately 30-45 days after the date of the hearing request. A request for a hearing regarding a delinquent filing will automatically stay the suspension of the Company’s securities for a period of 15 days from the date of the hearing request. However, when the Company requests a hearing, it may also request an extension of the stay through the hearing and the expiration of any additional extension period granted by the Hearings Panel following the hearing. However, there can be no assurance that the Hearings Panel will grant the Company an additional extension, or that the Hearings Panel will grant the Company’s request for an extended stay, or that the Company will be able to regain compliance by the end of any additional extension period. In the unlikely event that Nasdaq is not able to rule on the stay request prior to the expiration of the automatic stay, it has been Nasdaq’s recent practice to take no action until the Hearings Panel is able to make a ruling on the extended stay request. Upon such Hearings Panel ruling on the extended stay, the Company intends to make a further announcement. Accordingly, the Company intends to timely submit a request for a hearing and for an extended stay before a Hearings Panel. This announcement is made in compliance with Nasdaq Listing Rule 5810(b), which requires the public announcement of the Staff Determination by issuing a press release, in addition to filing a Current Report on Form 8-K if required by SEC rules. About Stran For over 29 years, Stran has grown to become a leader in the promotional products industry, specializing in complex marketing programs to help recognize the value of promotional products, branded merchandise, and loyalty incentive programs as a tool to drive awareness, build brands and impact sales. Stran is the chosen promotional programs manager of many Fortune 500 companies, across a variety of industries, to execute their promotional marketing, loyalty and incentive, sponsorship activation, recruitment, retention, and wellness campaigns. Stran provides world-class customer service and utilizes cutting-edge technology, including efficient ordering and logistics technology to provide order processing, warehousing, and fulfillment functions. The Company’s mission is to develop long-term relationships with its clients, enabling them to connect with both their customers and employees in order to build lasting brand loyalty. Additional information about the Company is available at: www.stran.com . Forward Looking Statements This press release contains “forward-looking statements” that are subject to substantial risks and uncertainties. All statements, other than statements of historical fact, contained in this press release are forward-looking statements. Forward-looking statements contained in this press release may be identified by the use of words such as “anticipate,” “believe,” “contemplate,” “could,” “estimate,” “expect,” “intend,” “seek,” “may,” “might,” “plan,” “potential,” “predict,” “project,” “target,” “aim,” “should,” "will,” “would,” or the negative of these words or other similar expressions, although not all forward-looking statements contain these words. Forward-looking statements are based on the Company’s current expectations and are subject to inherent uncertainties, risks and assumptions that are difficult to predict. Further, certain forward-looking statements are based on assumptions as to future events that may not prove to be accurate. These and other risks and uncertainties are described more fully in the section titled “Risk Factors” in the Company’s periodic reports which are filed with the Securities and Exchange Commission. Forward-looking statements contained in this announcement are made as of this date, and the Company undertakes no duty to update such information except as required under applicable law. Contacts: Investor Relations Contact: Crescendo Communications, LLC Tel: (212) 671-1021 SWAG@crescendo-ir.com Press Contact: Howie Turkenkopf press@stran.com
The Grand Bend community centre is one step closer to becoming a reality. A conceptual facility design proposes a variety of features for the much anticipated addition to the community. The proposal includes several amenities on the main floor The proposed main floor layout of the Grand Bend Community Centre (Source: Municipality of Lambton Shores, Skinner Architects) The upper floor would feature the following The proposed upper floor layout of the Grand Bend Community Centre (Source: Municipality of Lambton Shores, Skinner Architects) The outside of the facility would include an outdoor kitchen, picnic area, and parking. The proposed location for the facility is 18 Municipal Drive, Grand Bend (Lion’s Park) – which is near the intersection of highways 21 and 81. Currently the property is home to a baseball diamond, pavilion and outdoor shuffleboard court that would be decommissioned to make room for the new community centre. An estimated budget pegs the project in the range of $17.5 million to $20 million. Currently, members of the community can submit their feedback on the proposal until January 31. Shopping Trends The Shopping Trends team is independent of the journalists at CTV News. We may earn a commission when you use our links to shop. Read about us. Editor's Picks 10 Family Calendars And Planners That'll Help You Keep Track Of Everything In The New Year Our Guide To The Best Winter Boots You Can Get In Canada 16 Cozy Home Essentials That Cost Less Than $100 Home Our Guide To The Best Snow Shovels In Canada In 2024 (And Where To Get Them) 14 Of The Best Home Security Devices You Can Find Online Right Now (And They've Got The Reviews To Prove It) 13 Of The Best Fidget Toys For Adults Gifts The Clock Is Ticking — Shop These 25 Last-Minute Amazon Prime Gifts Now If You Have An Amazon Prime Account, These 70+ Crowd-Pleasing Gifts Will Still Arrive Before Christmas If You Have An Amazon Prime Account, These 50 Brilliant Stocking Stuffers Will Still Arrive Before Christmas Beauty 20 Products Your Dry, Dehydrated Skin Will Thank You For Ordering 14 Hydrating Face Masks That’ll Save Your Skin This December 12 Budget-Friendly Products To Add To Your Winter Skincare Routine Deals 50+ Of The Best Amazon Canada Boxing Day Sales, Deals, And Discounts For 2024 The Altitude Sports Boxing Day Sale Has Begun — Here's What We're Shopping For PSA: The Michael Kors Boxing Week Sale Is Happening Right Now London Top Stories London fire responds to Wellington Road collision, contains fuel leak 'It’s a surprise': Shoebox Project gives women impacted by homelessness a Christmas gift Proposed Grand Bend community centre features variety of amenities, with a cost of $20 million Huron OPP looking to identify theft suspect Over the holidays, the gift you can give yourself is taking care of your mental health OPP issue drug and traffic charges following single vehicle collision near Hanover Looking to squeeze in some last minute shopping? Here's what's open over the holidays in the Forest City LGBTQIA+ community expresses concern over bus advertisements CTVNews.ca Top Stories What is flagpoling? A new ban on the practice is starting to take effect Immigration measures announced as part of Canada's border response to president-elect Donald Trump's 25 per cent tariff threat are starting to be implemented, beginning with a ban on what's known as 'flagpoling.' Hong Kong police issue arrest warrants and bounties for six activists including two Canadians Hong Kong police on Tuesday announced a fresh round of arrest warrants for six activists based overseas, with bounties set at $1 million Hong Kong dollars for information leading to their arrests. U.S. president-elect's son shares post on X of Donald Trump buying Canada on Amazon U.S. president-elect Donald Trump and those in his corner continue to send out strong messages about Canada. Read Trudeau's Christmas message Prime Minister Justin Trudeau issued his Christmas message on Tuesday. Here is his message in full. Heavy travel day off to a rough start after American Airlines briefly grounds all flights American Airlines briefly grounded flights nationwide Tuesday due to a technical problem just as the Christmas travel season kicked into overdrive and winter weather threatened more potential problems for those planning to fly or drive. Quebec fugitive gunned down leaving gym in Mexican resort town RCMP are confirming that a fugitive, Mathieu Belanger, wanted by Quebec provincial police has died in Mexico, in what local media are calling a murder. Justin Baldoni's 'Man Enough' podcast co-host Liz Plank announces her departure Justin Baldoni's 'Man Enough' podcast co-host Liz Plank announced she's stepping away from the show after actress Blake Lively accused the actor and director of sexual harassment and a smear campaign in a civil rights complaint last week. Economists say more room to fall as Canadian dollar continues downward trend Experts say the next few months are going to be rough for the Canadian dollar as it appears set to continue its downward trend. How much is too much alcohol over the holidays? A doctor explains The holidays are here, as are the parties, happy hours and other get-togethers that often offer abundant mixed drinks, beer and wine. Kitchener What’s open and what’s closed over the holidays A detailed guide to what’s open and closed between Dec. 25 and New Year's Day. Pedestrian seriously hurt following collision in Norfolk County Bell Mill Sideroad was closed for several hours between Rokeby Sideroad and Goshen Road but has since reopened. Police investigating after vandalization of Pride crosswalk in Waterloo Waterloo Regional Police are investigating after a Pride crosswalk was vandalized in Waterloo on Sunday. Barrie Live trackers await Santa Claus and his reindeer crew, special track underway in Simcoe County The spirit of Christmas is in the air as Santa Claus begins his lasting journey to deliver presents to children around the region. Third suspect arrested in Caledon peace officer assault A third person has been arrested after an assault in November. No parking on Barrie streets on Christmas Eve Barrie crews will work tonight to clear the snow from its streets. Windsor WECHU warning of positive avian influenza cases The Windsor-Essex County Health Unit (WECHU) is working to alert the public of the dangers of avian influenza after waterfowl in the area tested positive. Chatham police aware of physical incident between two children going viral on social media The Chatham-Kent Police Service said it is aware of a video going viral on social media, showing a physical incident between two children in the area. Over the holidays, the gift you can give yourself is taking care of your mental health The holiday season can be challenging for many – whether it’s lonely, overwhelming, busy, quiet, or a reminder of people that can’t be with you. Northern Ontario Indigenous family faced discrimination in North Bay, Ont., when they were kicked off transit bus Ontario's Human Rights Tribunal has awarded members of an Indigenous family in North Bay $15,000 each after it ruled they were victims of discrimination. Norad crew waiting for Santa to fly over Canada as annual holiday track underway Departing from the North Pole while we were all sleeping, Santa Claus' journey around the world bringing presents and Christmas cheer for all of the good boys and girls who believe is underway. U.S. president-elect's son shares post on X of Donald Trump buying Canada on Amazon U.S. president-elect Donald Trump and those in his corner continue to send out strong messages about Canada. Sault Ste. Marie Sault man arrested after security guard kicked in the head over the weekend, police say A 36-year-old Sault man was arrested Christmas Eve following an incident over the weekend. Norad crew waiting for Santa to fly over Canada as annual holiday track underway Departing from the North Pole while we were all sleeping, Santa Claus' journey around the world bringing presents and Christmas cheer for all of the good boys and girls who believe is underway. Northern Ont. hospital to close emergency department for Christmas and Boxing Day A physician shortage is again forcing the closure of the emergency department at the Thessalon Site of the North Shore Health Network – this time for more than 48 hours over the holidays. Ottawa OPP and Ottawa firefighters help remove vehicle wedged into Highway 417 overpass Ottawa firefighters and local Ontario Provincial Police officers were called to a bizarre scene Tuesday morning along Highway 417, where a driver managed to wedge his vehicle under an overpass. Ottawa welcomes new Team Canada fans with citizenship ceremony ahead of the World Juniors Ottawa is welcoming the world as it hosts the IIHF World Junior Hockey Championship. But first, some new Team Canada fans were sworn in at a citizenship ceremony at the Canadian Tire Centre on Monday. A light snow on Christmas Eve ahead of Ottawa's white Christmas Light snow kept falling Tuesday morning, making the city seem like a Currier and Ives lithograph. It can be assumed at least one snowman was built in a meadow, though it's unclear which religious figure it might represent or whether it was interested in the marital status of the builders. Toronto Trudeau could stay or go. Either way, Canadians should brace for a spring election Canada appears to be barrelling toward a spring election now that the NDP is vowing to vote down the government early next year -- whether Prime Minister Justin Trudeau stays on or not. Woman seriously injured after stabbing in Moss Park: paramedics A stabbing in Toronto’s Moss Park neighbourhood Tuesday morning has left a woman with serious injuries as police search for a suspect. Police in York Region thwart alleged car theft in Stouffville, Ont. A suspect from Quebec who was allegedly trying to steal a luxury car in Stouffville, Ont. last Friday was caught with a key fob programmer, police say. Montreal Snowfall means a white Christmas, but also traffic woes across southern Quebec roads A heavy snowfall has guaranteed much of Quebec a white Christmas, but it has also sent cars skidding off the province's roads during the busy holiday travel period. Quebec doing better job at retaining immigrants, Atlantic Canada still struggling Immigrants are increasingly choosing to stay in Quebec, according to a new report from Statistics Canada, but the same isn't true in the Atlantic region, which continues to lose newcomers to the rest of the country. What's open and closed in Montreal during the holidays Here's a list of what's open and closed for the holidays in Montreal. Atlantic Snow forecast through Christmas Eve for parts of the Maritimes Parts of the Maritimes that were hit by a weekend snowstorm are in for more of the white stuff this Christmas Eve. 'Can I taste it?': Rare $55,000 bottle of spirits for sale in Moncton, N.B. A rare bottle of Scotch whisky is for sale in downtown Moncton, N.B., with a price tag reading $55,000. Nova Scotia charity serving 600 free turkey dinners for Christmas A Nova Scotia charity is serving at least 600 free traditional dinners over Christmas Eve and Christmas Day to spread a little bit of holiday cheer. Winnipeg One person dead, another injured following Monday night house fire One person has died and another is in unstable condition following a house fire Monday evening. Winnipeg police investigating string of packages being stolen The Winnipeg Police Service is investigating a string of package thefts in the Transcona area. ‘Choosing your own adventure’: Winnipeg’s Select Start readies Exchange District for brand new ‘barcade’ experience A new ‘barcade’ in the heart of the Exchange District is hoping to be a successful launch title for a new generation of players. Calgary Three sent to hospital after Glenmore Trail crash Calgary police shut down Glenmore Trail overnight following a crash between a car and a crane truck. Skier seriously injured in avalanche near Revelstoke, B.C. A skier was seriously injured after an avalanche near Revelstoke, B.C., over the weekend. Motorcyclist killed in Lethbridge crash A 36-year-old man is dead after the motorcycle he was riding collided with an SUV in Lethbridge on Monday. Edmonton 'Serious safety issues': Edmonton building where security guard was killed evacuated An apartment building where a security guard was killed earlier this month has been evacuated. 1 charged after van stolen from Edmonton's Food Bank on Monday One person has been arrested after a van was stolen from Edmonton's Food Bank on Monday. Warrants issued for 'dangerous' Edmonton man in sexual assault case The Edmonton Police Service is looking for a 58-year-old man in connection with a sexual assault that happened earlier this year. Regina Sask. RCMP still searching for man suspected of small-town break-ins spanning years A man suspected of breaking into offices and small businesses across Saskatchewan over the past number of years has struck again – according to RCMP. 'A nice way to connect': Christmas card exchange between Sask. friends spans 60 years What started out as a little holiday fun between two Regina friends has turned into a tradition that now spans six decades. Dog lost in Saskatchewan during cross-country trip reunited with family A family moving from Ontario to Alberta in November had a scare when their family dog got loose during a stop in Dafoe, Sask. and ran away. Saskatoon More drivers opt for personalized plates in Sask. — and behind every one there's a story You may have noticed a few more vanity plates on Saskatchewan roads in recent years, and every one of them comes with a personal story. 'People prop the doors open': Saskatoon resident concerned as people shelter in her stairwell With the number of homeless people in Saskatoon at an unprecedented high, it’s no surprise people are looking for places to warm up. Saskatoon-born comedian Brendan Flaherty returns to ask, 'what'd I miss?' As a Saskatoon-born comedian pursuing a career in the Six, Brendan Flaherty says he often hears the same question from friends back home. Vancouver B.C. friends nab ‘unbelievable’ $1M lotto win just before Christmas Two friends from B.C’s lower mainland are feeling particularly merry this December, after a single lottery ticket purchased from a small kiosk landed them instant millionaire status. Storms to continue rolling through B.C.'s South Coast over Christmas Day The tempestuous weather that descended on southern B.C. Monday afternoon will linger for the next few days, with a storm forecast for Christmas Day. Year-end interview: B.C. Premier David Eby reflects on nail-biting 2024 election It was a year that saw David Eby elected B.C. premier for the first time, and lead his party to government for a third consecutive term. Vancouver Island Year-end interview: B.C. Premier David Eby reflects on nail-biting 2024 election It was a year that saw David Eby elected B.C. premier for the first time, and lead his party to government for a third consecutive term. B.C. friends nab ‘unbelievable’ $1M lotto win just before Christmas Two friends from B.C’s lower mainland are feeling particularly merry this December, after a single lottery ticket purchased from a small kiosk landed them instant millionaire status. B.C. woman sentenced for impaired driving crash that killed retired Mountie A Vancouver Island woman who was high on drugs when she crashed a car into a pickup truck, killing a retired Mountie and injuring his two passengers, "did not realize what was happening and took no steps to avoid the accident" a B.C. Supreme Court judge found. Stay Connected
Scientists pinpoint just how fast Santa would have to travel to visit every child on the planet... and reveal why, at this speed, Rudolf's nose wouldn't be redRookie quarterback Jayden Daniels rushed for 127 yards, throwing for another 227 and for three touchdowns, including the game-winning touchdown pass to Zach Ertz. The Commanders staged a dramatic comeback from a 10-point deficit at half-time, sending them to the play-offs for the first time in four years. The win was enough to give the Los Angeles Rams the NFC West title as it ended the Seattle Seahawks hopes ahead of their meeting in the final week of the season. The Falcons need other results to go their way along with a win over the Carolina Panthers in their final game. Saquon Barkley became the ninth running back in NFL history to rush for 2,000 yards in a single season as the Philadelphia Eagles clinched the NFC East title with a victory over the Dallas Cowboys. The 27-year-old achieved the feat with a 23-yard run during the fourth quarter of the Eagles’ crushing 41-7 success at Lincoln Financial Field. Barkley is 100 yards short of Eric Dickerson’s record of 2,105 yards, set in 1984 for the Los Angeles Rams, ahead of next week’s regular season finale against the New York Giants. However, he could be rested for that game in order to protect him from injury ahead of the play-offs. The Minnesota Vikings scored their ninth consecutive win after hanging on to beat the Green Bay Packers 27-25. Sam Darnold threw touchdowns to Cam Akers, Jordan Addison and Jalen Nailer, pushing his total for the season to 35. The victory set up a final-week showdown with the Detroit Lions for both the division title and top seed in the NFC. The Miami Dolphins kept themselves in the play-off race with a 20-3 victory over the Cleveland Browns. With Dolphins’ quarterback Tua Tagovailoa out with a hip injury, replacement Tyler Huntly threw for 225 yards and a touchdown. Miami will need to beat the New York Jets and hope the Denver Broncos lose to the Kansas City Chiefs to clinch the final AFC wildcard berth. The Tampa Bay Buccaneers kept alive their dreams of reaching the play-offs by overcoming the Carolina Panthers 48-14. Veteran quarterback Baker Mayfield produced a dominant performance at Raymond James Stadium, registering five passing touchdowns to equal a Buccaneers franchise record. The Buffalo Bills clinched the AFC conference number two seed for the post season with a 40-14 success over the New York Jets at Highmark Stadium. Josh Allen passed for 182 yards and two touchdowns, while rushing for another. Buffalo finish the 2024 regular season undefeated at home, with eight wins from as many games. The Indianapolis Colts’ hopes of reaching the play-offs were ended by a 45-33 defeat to the Giants. Malik Nabers exploded for 171 yards and two touchdowns and Ihmir Smith-Marsette broke a 100-yard kick-off return to give the Giants their highest-scoring output under head coach Brian Daboll. Quarterback Drew Lock threw four touchdown passes and accounted for a fifth on the ground to seal the win. Elsewhere, Mac Jones threw two touchdowns to help the Jacksonville Jaguars defeat the Tennessee Titans 20-13, while the Las Vegas Raiders beat the New Orleans Saints 25-10.
Best sci-fi movies to watch on Netflix this DecemberThe Civil Services and Government Development Bureau’s Institute of Public Administration, in collaboration with the Ministry of Communications and Information Technology, represented by Qatar Digital Academy, has organised a workshop titled, ‘Generative Artificial Intelligence: Work and the Future of Jobs’. The workshop was held remotely using Teams platform, with the participation from employees of the public sector in the Gulf Co-operation Council countries. It focused on providing a comprehensive overview of generative artificial intelligence concepts and its importance in reshaping the labour market, as well as the new roles and jobs that will emerge as a result of this technology. The workshop also covered various topics, including the definition of artificial intelligence and its fundamentals, and applications of deep learning such as natural language processing and computer vision, in addition to discussing strategies for utilising artificial intelligence (AI). The workshop highlighted the potential of generative artificial intelligence in enhancing various sectors such as healthcare, education, and industry, while also addressing the importance of ethical frameworks and ensuring transparency when using these technologies. The workshop is part of the initiative ‘Innovative and Modern Training Solutions Aligned with Remote Learning and Training Trends’, in co-ordination with the GCC General Secretariat. Related Story MoPH discusses ethics of AI use in health researchJOSH BERMAN JOINS ASSEMBLY AS EVP, ASSEMBLY LEAD IN NORTH AMERICA
Rasi Bhadramani FRI strategy First Trust S&P REIT Index Fund ( NYSEARCA: FRI ) was launched on 5/8/2007 and tracks the S&P United States REIT Index. It has a portfolio of 136 equity REITs, a 30-day SEC yield of 3.16% and a net Quantitative Risk & Value (QRV) provides you with risk indicators and data-driven, time-tested strategies. Get started with a two-week free trial now. Fred Piard, PhD. is a quantitative analyst and IT professional with over 30 years of experience working in technology. He is the author of three books and has been investing in data-driven systematic strategies since 2010. Quantitative Risk & Value Learn more Analyst’s Disclosure: I/we have no stock, option or similar derivative position in any of the companies mentioned, and no plans to initiate any such positions within the next 72 hours. I wrote this article myself, and it expresses my own opinions. I am not receiving compensation for it (other than from Seeking Alpha). I have no business relationship with any company whose stock is mentioned in this article. Seeking Alpha's Disclosure: Past performance is no guarantee of future results. No recommendation or advice is being given as to whether any investment is suitable for a particular investor. Any views or opinions expressed above may not reflect those of Seeking Alpha as a whole. Seeking Alpha is not a licensed securities dealer, broker or US investment adviser or investment bank. Our analysts are third party authors that include both professional investors and individual investors who may not be licensed or certified by any institute or regulatory body.