Bula Three stories make the front page of the Fiji Times for Saturday, December 21. But before that, we have a wraparound over the front page, and it’s on the holidays coming up. THE shadowy nature of the illegal drug trade requires the Counter Narcotics Unit to equip itself with surveillance technology such as drones and advanced tracking systems. According to the Police Reset document, preventing the flow of illegal drugs and dismantling drug networks will also require a strengthening of intelligence-gathering mechanisms to identify drug trafficking routes and networks. Fiji National Provident Fund’s 43,000 members were paid a record eight per cent return to its members in its 2024 financial year ending June 2024. This was the highest in the last 25 years. The performance comes as the fund continues to manage an asset portfolio valued at $10.6 billion for over 423,000 members. PRIME Minister Sitiveni Rabuka says if Acting Police Commissioner Juki Fong Chew has evidence of dirty cops, then he should have had them investigated and arrested. Mr Rabuka’s remark follows claims by Mr Fong Chew that some police officers were corrupt. In a strong response to the media yesterday, Mr Rabuka expressed disappointment at Mr Fong Chew’s comments, describing them as injurious to the morale of the police force. Letters to the editor We have seven pages of people’s opinions. Find out what they are talking about. Read their views on issues they feel strongly about, and get a feel of the pulse of the nation. People are challenging processes, and systems and have a view on various issues affecting our nation. International Follow us for the best and most comprehensive international news coverage. We connect you to some of the world’s best news agencies, bringing you news that matter from around the world. Synopsis We are now counting down the days to Christmas Day on December 25. That’s when celebrations will definitely go up a notch. There is tradition, and emotions linked to this special day, and the one after that, on Boxing Day, and then attention shifts to New Year’s Day. We celebrate this festive season for different reasons. One thing’s for sure, the festivities start this weekend, broken by working days on Monday and Tuesday, only to resume on Wednesday and Thursday. For thousands of people, it’s an opportunity to unwind, and to be with family and friends. It’s an opportunity to relax at the beach, take in the weather, and the moment. It’s an opportunity to enjoy life. Some will drown themselves in alcohol. Thousands will use the opportunity to become tourists. There will be people at work though. They ensure the processes and systems that enable our nation to churn on, continue rolling. There are families who may have a loved one who is very sick, or perhaps they are not well-off and are unable to enjoy the occasion. Christmas Day is a joyous occasion that should be celebrated. Lest we forget, we also have a duty to be careful on our roads. Travelling times take up a huge chunk of our days in this period. So let’s be vigilant, proactive, and adhere to laws that govern road usage. Considering the fact that we are still in the cyclone season that stretches from November to April, it pays to be mindful of what the weather reports reveal. It is encouraging to see organisations and people reaching out to assist the less fortunate. A lot of them have come to the assistance of organisations like Walk on Walk Strong (WOWS) Kids Fiji for instance. These acts of kindness should remind us that there are many good-hearted people willing to lend a helping hand, and their efforts should inspire us all. Let this season of goodwill empower us to show concern and compassion for those around us. We acknowledge and celebrate all those who have dedicated their time and energy to uplift others, and to become shining lights in our communities. Your contributions make a meaningful difference, reminding us about the true spirit of the season. As we prepare for the holidays, let’s plan wisely and prioritise safety for ourselves and our loved ones. Whether we’re celebrating at home, traveling, or volunteering to help those in need, our actions can have a lasting impact. Let’s embrace the joy of the season while fostering a sense of togetherness and support for one another. Let’s also focus on safety!
After the recent update to the rules regarding alleged violations by Manchester City, the number of accusations against the club has risen from 115 to a staggering 130. This development has sent shockwaves throughout the English Premier League and has raised significant questions about the integrity of one of the league's most successful clubs.
Guan Zhiou Appointed as Party Secretary of Ministry of Natural Resources, Formerly the Youngest Standing Committee Member of Shandong Provincial Party Committee
To achieve their goals, Atalanta must leverage the talent and experience of players like Duván Zapata, who have the ability to make a difference in decisive moments. Zapata's form and fitness will be crucial to Atalanta's success, as he provides the team with a reliable source of goals and an offensive focal point. Gasperini will look to Zapata to lead the Atalanta attack, inspire his teammates, and deliver match-winning performances that will propel the team to victory.Renfrew council delays rubber-stamping staff recommendation to award controversial IT contractMoreover, the AI big model shuffle could lead to a redistribution of resources and talent in the market. Companies that invest in research and development, data quality, and model explainability may gain a competitive edge over those that prioritize speed and scale. As the focus shifts from hype to substance, the market is likely to reward companies that invest in building trustworthy and reliable AI solutions.
As the sun set behind the snow-carrier, casting a warm glow on its snowy surface, it stood as a testament to the creativity, dedication, and patriotism of all those who contributed to its creation. It was not merely a sculpture made of snow, but a symbol of unity, pride, and love for one's country.Cloud Whale Intelligence' CEO, Zhang Jiaobin, responded to rumors of layoffs, stating that the company has successfully reduced its workforce from 1600 to 1400 employees in order to enhance efficiency within the organization. Zhang emphasized that the restructuring has resulted in a significant increase in organizational efficiency compared to before.
Report: NFL warns players of burglary rings targeting pro athletes
REDMOND, Ore., Dec. 20, 2024 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) -- Expion360 Inc. XPON ("Expion360" or the "Company"), an industry leader in lithium-ion battery power storage solutions, announced today the resignation of Greg Aydelott, Chief Financial Officer of the Company, effective December 31, 2024, due to family health concerns. Mr. Aydelott intends to remain available to the Company on an ongoing basis as a consultant to ensure a smooth transition. The Company's Board of Directors has appointed the Company's Chief Executive Officer, Brian Schaffner, as interim Chief Financial Officer, and Principal Financial and Accounting Officer, effective December 31, 2024, and is conducting a search process to identify a new CFO. Mr. Schaffner previously served as the CFO of Expion360 from March 2021 through January 2023. "On behalf of our Board of Directors, leadership team and employees, I would like to thank Greg for his outstanding service and commitment over the past three years," said Mr. Schaffner. "He has made significant contributions to Expion360's success, including managing our growth, strengthening our balance sheet, enhancing our planning and budgeting process, and overseeing investments in new technologies and batteries." "This has been an incredible journey with talented people, and it has been a privilege to help lead this passionate team," said Mr. Aydelott. "I look forward to following the success of Expion360 for years to come." About Expion360 Expion360 is an industry leader in premium lithium iron phosphate (LiFePO4) batteries and accessories for recreational vehicles and marine applications, with residential and industrial applications under development. On December 19, 2023, the Company announced its entrance into the home energy storage market with the introduction of two premium LiFePO4 battery storage systems that enable residential and small business customers to create their own stable micro-energy grid and lessen the impact of increasing power fluctuations and outages. The Company's lithium-ion batteries feature half the weight of standard lead-acid batteries while delivering three times the power and ten times the number of charging cycles. Expion360 batteries also feature better construction and reliability compared to other lithium-ion batteries on the market due to their superior design and quality materials. Specially reinforced, fiberglass-infused, premium ABS and solid mechanical connections help provide top performance and safety. With Expion360 batteries, adventurers can enjoy the most beautiful and remote places on Earth even longer. The Company is headquartered in Redmond, Oregon. Expion360 lithium-ion batteries are available today through more than 300 dealers, wholesalers, private-label customers, and OEMs across the country. To learn more about the Company, visit expion360.com . Forward-Looking Statements and Safe Harbor Notice This press release contains certain forward-looking statements within the meaning of Section 27A of the Securities Act of 1933, as amended, and Section 21E of the Securities Exchange Act of 1934, as amended, which statements are subject to considerable risks and uncertainties. The Company intends such forward-looking statements to be covered by the safe harbor provisions contained in the Private Securities Litigation Reform Act of 1995. All statements other than statements of historical facts included in this press release, including statements about our beliefs and expectations, are "forward-looking statements" and should be evaluated as such. Examples of such forward-looking statements include statements that use forward-looking words such as "projected," "expect," "possibility," "believe," "aim," "goal," "plan," and "anticipate," or similar expressions. Forward-looking statements included in this press release include, but are not limited to, statements relating to the expected timing and impact of the executive transition, including Mr. Aydelott's continuing role as a consultant to the Company, and the Company's ability to build on its momentum and achieve its financial and strategic objectives. Forward-looking statements are subject to and involve risks, uncertainties, and assumptions that may cause the Company's actual results, performance or achievements to be materially different from any future results, performance or achievements predicted, assumed or implied by such forward-looking statements. Company Contact: Brian Schaffner, CEO 541-797-6714 Email Contact External Investor Relations: Chris Tyson, Executive Vice President MZ Group - MZ North America 949-491-8235 XPON@mzgroup.us www.mzgroup.us © 2024 Benzinga.com. Benzinga does not provide investment advice. All rights reserved.As "Reading on the Island" continues to gain popularity, it is inspiring a wave of interest in literature and reading across the country. Libraries are reporting an increase in visitors, bookstores are seeing a rise in book sales, and online reading platforms are experiencing a surge in membership. The show has become a catalyst for a cultural shift towards a more literary and contemplative society, where the value of words and ideas is cherished and respected.
TSM Ventures Beyond the Digital Arena Traditionally recognized as a powerhouse in the world of competitive gaming, Team SoloMid (TSM) is seemingly setting its sights on broader horizons. Recent rumors and subtle industry movements suggest that TSM is exploring the burgeoning field of “pre-market technology solutions,” a venture that could reshape its identity and influence in the tech-centric ecosystem. A Glimpse into Pre-Market Technologies Pre-market technologies refer to innovations that are still in their nascent stages but show promising potential for mass-market adoption. TSM’s interest in this realm marks a significant strategic pivot. The organization, celebrated for its prowess in games like League of Legends and Valorant, might be integrating cutting-edge technology to enhance gaming experiences or even stepping outside traditional boundaries to diversify its portfolio. Implications for the Gaming Community This evolution could have profound implications for the gaming community. If TSM’s foray into pre-market technologies proves successful, it could lead to revolutionary advancements in gaming interfaces, more immersive virtual experiences, or even the development of tools that improve gamer performance. Such developments could redefine competitive gaming and create new revenue streams, allowing TSM to maintain its competitive edge beyond the confines of traditional esports. Looking Ahead While concrete details remain under wraps, this potential pivot signifies a future where gaming teams might play a pivotal role not only in entertainment but also in technological innovation. As TSM fans and tech enthusiasts speculate on the implications, the world eagerly awaits how this pre-market endeavor unfolds. The initiative could herald a new era for TSM and the gaming industry as a whole. Unveiling TSM’s Next Big Move: From Gaming Powerhouse to Tech Innovator New Horizons in the World of Digital Innovation Team SoloMid (TSM), a titan in esports, is reportedly stepping beyond its familiar territory by venturing into pre-market technology solutions. This strategic move points towards a possible transformation of TSM from a gaming-focused entity to a broader tech innovator. The venture into pre-market technologies, which are innovations still on the horizon of mainstream adoption, could broaden the organization’s influence and introduce novel possibilities for integration between gaming and technology. Pre-Market Technologies: What Lies Ahead The term pre-market technologies encompasses early-stage innovations ripe for future mainstream use. TSM’s potential engagement in this arena suggests a desire to be at the forefront of groundbreaking tech applications, possibly to enhance gaming environments or even explore avenues outside traditional gaming. Such a strategy could diversify TSM’s offerings and income sources, enabling them to leverage technology to redefine the eSports landscape. Benefits and Challenges for the Gaming Ecosystem If TSM successfully harnesses pre-market technologies, it could pioneer game-changing advancements, such as cutting-edge gaming interfaces and ultra-immersive virtual realities. These innovations have the potential to elevate gaming not just in entertainment, but as a competitive, skill-enhancing field. However, such a pivot could also entail several challenges, including the need for significant investment, talent acquisition, and a robust understanding of emerging technologies to minimize risks. Gaming Ventures Redefined: Comparison with Industry Trends TSM’s potential entry into tech solutions aligns with broader industry trends where traditional gaming entities are merging with technology sectors. This includes integrating artificial intelligence for personalized gaming experiences or leveraging virtual reality for more immersive play. As Team SoloMid explores this new path, their strategy may act as a blueprint for others in the gaming sector grappling with the fast-paced technological evolution. Predictions and Future Impact Speculation abounds on TSM’s next steps, with industry experts predicting collaborations with tech startups and investments in nascent tech sectors. Should these endeavors materialize, TSM could become a pivotal player not only in competitive gaming but also in the field of technological innovation. The successful merger of gaming and pre-market tech might transform TSM into a model of evolution for similar organizations seeking sustainability and growth in an ever-changing digital space. As TSM continues to innovate and expand its horizons, both gaming enthusiasts and tech supporters are keenly observing how this journey unfolds, potentially heralding a new era of gaming and technology integration.
MEREDITH — Isabel Dwyer was recently crowned Miss Lakes Region’s Teen 2025. With a commitment to making a meaningful impact, she embraces the core values of Miss America: style, scholarship, success, service, and sisterhood. Currently a junior at Bishop Guertin High School, Dwyer advocates for concussion awareness through her community service initiative. As a two-time concussion survivor, she is passionate about prevention and support, proudly serving as an ambassador for Concussion Awareness Now and the Concussion Legacy Foundation. Dwyer aims to support youth and families across New Hampshire with social media campaigns, wellness events, and fundraising for brain injury initiatives. In addition to her advocacy work, Dwyer founded her school’s broadcast journalism club and plans to study communications in college, merging her media skills with her dedication to creating change. Her passion for coaching young cheerleaders is an extension of her advocacy through promoting brain safety and sportsmanship. From participating in a lake clean-up and writing letters to isolated seniors, to sorting toys for the Salvation Army, Dwyer’s service work establishes her as a role model for teens. The Miss Lakes Region Teen pageant is part of the Miss America’s Teen organization, which has awarded millions in scholarships to empower young women. Dwyer will represent the Lakes Region at the Miss New Hampshire Teen competition in April, where she will compete in the interview, talent, evening gown, and on-stage question segments. For more information, visit instagram.com/misslakesregionnh .The Changan UNI-Z is a sleek and stylish plug-in hybrid that offers a seamless blend of performance, comfort, and eco-friendliness. Equipped with a 1.5-liter turbocharged engine combined with an electric motor, the UNI-Z delivers a total output of 210 horsepower and 355 Nm of torque. This powertrain is paired with a 9-speed automatic transmission for smooth and efficient performance. The UNI-Z also features a 13.1 kWh lithium-ion battery pack that provides an electric-only range of up to 83 miles, making it a great option for daily commutes and shorter trips. Additionally, the UNI-Z comes with advanced safety and connectivity features, including a suite of driver-assist technologies and a high-definition infotainment system.
As the situation in Syria worsened, the Chinese embassy in Damascus worked tirelessly to coordinate the evacuation efforts. A team of embassy staff, along with security personnel, traveled to various parts of the country to ensure the safe passage of Chinese citizens to the designated evacuation point. The green corridor, established in collaboration with local authorities, provided a safe route out of Syria for the evacuees.