For every footballer capable of striking fear into the opposition with their dazzling footwork or goalscoring prowess, there are others who could make people tremble just with a glare. While the sport has evolved into a more cerebral game, where tactics and teamwork take precedence, there was a time when individualism held greater sway, and during that era, some players were truly fearsome. Whether it was through getting into fistfights on the pitch or showing no remorse when launching into potentially career-ending tackles, these men were the ones you wouldn’t want to cross. To determine who embodied this aura of intimidation most effectively, GIVEMESPORT has compiled a list of the 10 most intimidating players in football history. A list of the 15 players with the most yellow cards in Premier League history 10 Billy Bremner Iconic Leeds United captain Billy Bremner was widely regarded as one of football's most intimidating figures during his heyday. Despite his modest 5'5" stature, Bremner exuded a fierce presence on the pitch. His tenacity, fearless tackles, and boundless energy earned him a reputation as a relentless competitor who never shied away from confrontation. Bremner's ability to outfight larger opponents showcased his indomitable spirit and determination to win at all costs. As the leader of Don Revie's formidable Leeds side in the 1960s and 1970s, Bremner embodied the team’s aggressive and uncompromising style. His fiery temperament often led to heated clashes with rivals, perhaps the most famous of which occurring with Kevin Keegan during the 1974 Community Shield, which resulted in a lengthy suspension. 9 Vinnie Jones A key member of Wimbledon’s infamous "Crazy Gang" during the 1980s and 1990s, Vinnie Jones thrived on unsettling opponents with his physicality and psychological tactics. Standing tall and muscular, he embodied the image of an enforcer, using bone-crunching tackles and unrelenting pressure to dominate matches. Jones’ infamous moments, such as his notorious challenge on Paul Gascoigne, became emblematic of his tough-guy reputation. Beyond his physical presence, Jones also possessed a sharp wit and a combative personality, frequently engaging in mind games and taunts to rattle opponents. His role in Wimbledon’s shock 1988 FA Cup victory against Liverpool further cemented his status as a footballing hard man, a character that he has since embodied in several roles as an actor in his retirement. The incident impacted the Wimbledon players so much, they ended up losing 4-1. 8 Graeme Souness Graeme Souness was a fearsome presence on the football pitch, renowned for his combative style and fiery leadership. As a dominant midfielder for Liverpool in the late 1970s and 1980s, his aggressive tackles and willingness to confront opponents head-on made him one of the most intimidating players of his era. While his technical prowess may be lacking in comparison to stars in the modern day game he has gripes with, such as Paul Pogba, he used his physicality to lead by example and send shivers down the spine of anyone who dared tried to match up with him in the centre of the pitch. He carried this same intensity into management, where he allegedly challenged Kieron Dyer and Lee Bowyer to a fight after the pair had gotten involved in a scuffle while at Newcastle. 7 Zinedine Zidane Some players are intimidating purely based on their talent alone. If they are capable of running rings around the opposition, that might be enough for opponents to concede victory before play has even started. Others rely on being nasty to strike fear into their adversaries. Fortunately for Zinedine Zidane , he could do both. The French midfielder was a majestic playmaker, one of European football's brightest stars in both the 1990s and the 2000s . However, he also had a mean streak, and when the red mist descended, it spelled trouble for anyone in his path. No one knows this better than Marco Materazzi, who Zidane famously headbutted during his final match in the 2006 World Cup final. 6 Patrick Vieira In an era of the Premier League that featured some of the toughest players ever to grace the pitch, Patrick Vieira stood out as one of the hardest . Like his compatriot Zidane, Vieira possessed a skill level that belied the physical presence expected of a bruising midfielder. While he was much more than just a physical enforcer, both technically and mentally, the former Arsenal skipper remained a player no one wanted to cross. His infamous rivalry with another legendary figure on this list is etched into English football history and secures the now Genoa manager's place here. GIVEMESPORT Key Statistic: Patrick Vieira finished his career with 16 red cards for club and country. 5 Harald 'Toni' Schumacher Harald 'Toni' Schumacher was one of football’s most intimidating figures, remembered for his commanding presence as West Germany’s goalkeeper and his controversial edge. His aggressive style and ability to dominate his penalty area made him a daunting opponent, but his reputation was forever defined by a shocking incident during the 1982 FIFA World Cup semi-final against France. With the game perfectly poised for a grandstand finish, Schumacher brutally collided with French defender Patrick Battiston, knocking him unconscious and knocking out several of his teeth. The incident, which went unpunished by the referee, shocked the football world. Adding to the controversy, his unapologetic response in post-match interviews inflamed public outrage. While Schumacher’s goalkeeping skills were world-class, his actions made him a symbol of violence in the sport, overshadowing his career with a lasting legacy of fear and controversy. Chelsea hero John Terry and Liverpool captain John Terry rank among the 10 most commanding centre-backs in football history. 4 Pepe The modern game relies so much on ball-playing defenders that it often feels like there is no longer a place for the no-nonsense ones who will put their heads where no one else will and play on a knife-edge when it comes to following the rules. With the way the sport is heading, Pepe may be one of the last of that breed. A multi-time Champions League winner with Real Madrid, the 41-year-old formed a partnership with Sergio Ramos that was as chaotic as it was high-quality. When Pepe saw the red mist, there was no coming back. Numerous examples exist of him kicking and stamping on opponents with the ball nowhere to be seen. Perhaps that mentality was key to his incredible longevity at the top, as he became the oldest player to feature at a European Championship in his final ever match. 3 Duncan Ferguson Standing at 6’4” and with a steely stare that would get even the strongest willed to look away, ‘Big Dunc’, Duncan Ferguson, was a constant menace to defenders, using his strength, aerial dominance, and fiery temperament to great effect. His aggressive playing style often pushed the boundaries, earning him numerous bookings and suspensions. Ferguson's fearsome reputation extended beyond football when he became the first professional player in Britain to serve jail time for an on-field incident. In 1994, while playing for Rangers, he headbutted Raith Rovers’ John McStay during a match. Although the referee missed the incident, Ferguson was later convicted of assault and sentenced to three months in prison. This didn’t lead to him reeling in his over the line antics though, as] he would often use his reputation to hoodwink other players, as Jimmy Bullard once revealed . There have been countless British player over the years who have earned a reputation for being tough on the pitch. 2 Gennaro Gattuso Known as "Rino" or "The Rhino," Gennaro Gattuso was a cornerstone of AC Milan’s success in the 2000s, excelling as a ball-winner and enforcer. Despite his modest stature, his uncompromising tackles, relentless pressing, and confrontational style struck fear into opponents. Gattuso’s fiery personality often boiled over, leading to infamous clashes on and off the pitch. One of the most memorable incidents came in 2011 during a Champions League match against Tottenham Hotspur, where he headbutted assistant coach Joe Jordan during a heated exchange. This fiery demeanor, combined with his ceaseless work rate, embodied his passion for the game and uncompromising will to win. While not the most technically gifted player, Gattuso’s hardworking nature made him a mainstay in Italian football for a number of years. 1 Roy Keane As captain of Manchester United during their most successful era under Sir Alex Ferguson, Roy Keane embodied the club’s winning mentality. His intense work ethic, tough tackling, and commanding presence in midfield set the tone for his teammates, often intimidating them - let alone those standing in his way. The Irishman was also someone who never forgot when somebody, in his view, wronged him. Just ask Alf-Inge Haaland. The father of Erling was the recipient of a horrific intentional tackle from Keane as revenge for the Norwegian previously screaming at the United number 16 after suffering a severe injury. Keane remembered this and used that to fuel him years later with no remorse. This is just one example as to why he takes the crown. All statistics courtesy of Transfermarkt - accurate as of 20/11/2024Smith scores 25 as Furman knocks off Harvard 77-63
BOISE — Milk and beef remain revenue leaders in Idaho agriculture as producers contend with inflationary constraints. In an Agricultural Outlook Seminar hosted by the University of Idaho on Wednesday, industry leaders and academics discussed their expectations for 2025. Based on current projections, the state is poised to meet a number of all-time highs across the agricultural sector as it continues to contend with inflationary prices. “Idaho is a relatively small economy in the scheme of things, but very big in terms of agriculture,” said Brett Wilder, area extension educator and assistant professor at the University of Idaho, who provided a statewide outlook for 2024 and 2025. In 2023, the state ranked 38th in total gross domestic product, but 19th in total farm GDP. Historically, the state has been fifth in the nation in terms of farm GDP as a total contribution to the state, with 1 in 9 of the state's jobs being in the agribusiness sector, Wilder said. In total, agribusiness accounts for 17% of the state’s economic output and in terms of total cash receipts — generated from sales — the 2024 fiscal year is estimated to bring in $11.3 billion in agricultural cash receipts statewide, Wilder said. “The biggest component of that is milk,” Wilder said. Milk accounts for $3.8 billion of the state’s cash receipts, up 10% from a year ago, Wilder said. Looking ahead to next year, the biggest gains in the dairy sector nationwide are expected to be in cheese production, as the industry contends with a “100 million pound cheese deficit across the country,” Dustin Winston, StoneX Financial commodity market analyst, said. Though Idaho’s cheese production is limited to a singular processing facility, 60% of Idaho’s milk is dedicated to cheese production, which would mean more direct impacts for Idaho stemming from this national push, Wilder said. An additional $2.8 billion comes from cattle and calves, accounting for 25% of the state’s agricultural cash receipts. Continued demand for both importing and exporting beef is expected to keep retail prices higher, as the industry nationwide is in “contraction,” Wilder said. “The industry terminology which means that we’re going to see tighter supplies and probably higher prices both for live animals and for the consumer,” Wilder said, adding that while demand has been historically strong, the consumer's willingness to pay higher prices into next year remains unknown. A pivoting irrigation system stands over a green field at the Boise’s Twenty Mile South Farm in this April 2019 file photo. Idaho ranked 19th in the U.S. in total farm gross domestic product in 2023. On the crop side, sugar beets are also estimated to be at an all-time high of $70 million in cash receipts, up from $69 million in the prior year. Nursery crops are also expected to see a small increases as well, Wilder said. Since 2000, in inflation-adjusted dollars, the nation has improved 60% in terms of cash receipts from agriculture compared to Idaho improving 90% over the same period. Wilder said that the state's performance is largely attributed to milk, which has cash receipts up 190% over the same period. With rising costs, however, these numbers don’t tell the full story, he said. “Even though we’re projecting a new all-time high in cash receipts ... it feels like a counterfeit number,” Wilder said. The difference between today’s dollars and inflation-adjusted cash receipts show a 25% gap, so while there are both technological and efficiency improvements across the agricultural sector, it remains difficult for these improvements to be implemented “at a pace that keeps up with the rate of inflation,” Wilder said. SHIFTING COSTS According to a Purdue University survey of agricultural producers’ sentiments, many are concerned about the ongoing impacts of inflation. The October survey found that a third of respondents said high input costs were their No. 1 concern. Looking back, this sentiment has remained quite consistent over the past 12 months, Xiaoli Etienne, University of Idaho associate professor and Idaho Wheat Commission Endowed Chair, said. While next year is projected to have the fourth-highest input costs on record — behind only 2022, 2023 and 2024 — the breakdown for individual inputs is more nuanced. The price of oil, for example, is expected to maintain its present downward trend into 2025. U.S. Energy Information Administration forecasts predict oil prices to fall to $69 per barrel next year, down from the average of $76 per barrel seen in 2024. This is attributed to supply from countries outside of the Organization of the Petroleum Exporting Countries (OPEC), including the United States, Brazil and Canada. China’s shift to clean energy as well as policies from Donald Trump’s incoming administration that are expected to be more favorable for the energy sector are also expected to factor into the price decrease, Etienne said. “Most likely you will see more drilling activities taking place and also less regulatory constraint,” Etienne said. A farmer cultivates a field off Homedale Road near Caldwell in April of 2022. Domestic fertilizer production is forecasted to mitigate effects of projected natural gas price hikes. Natural gas, on the other hand, is expected to have a significant increase in price over the previous year. Though the price spiked in 2022 following the onset of the Russia-Ukraine War, the price has since plummeted and remained relatively stable since. Prices could approach $4 per million British thermal units (MMBtu) — compared to its current average of just under $3 MMBtu — in part due to continued investment into exporting liquefied natural gas (LNG) out of the U.S., that is expected to increase demand, Etienne said. While this could be felt in the state’s electricity costs, of which more than a quarter comes from natural gas, the change could also have downstream effects on farmers since natural gas is a key ingredient in nitrogen-based fertilizers. Increased domestic fertilizer production over the next few years, however, is expected to mitigate these effects, Etienne said. For Idaho’s farmland, value increased an average of 5% in 2023 and 2024. The Federal Reserve, however, is continuing to lower interest rates — the Associated Press reported a 0.25% interest rate cut Wednesday — an outcome that is expected to ease some of the economic burden for agricultural producers. Whether it will be enough to reduce the effects of diminishing supply due to increased urbanization, however, remains to be seen, Etienne said. Looking ahead to next year, labor costs are expected to be a significant variable that the agriculture industry will need to grapple with. In 2024, average wages for all hired workers increased 3% and is expected to see a similar increase as the state contends with a shortage of workers, Etienne said. LEGISLATIVE FUTURE Compared to economic forecasting, the future direction of the Idaho Legislature is a bit harder to predict. The previous legislative session brought a number of positive outcomes for Idaho's agriculture producers. HB 592 provided compensation for livestock lost to grizzly bears and wolves and funded prevention measures against future losses. HB 608 established agricultural protection areas, which requires counties to take into account agricultural producers with five or more acres of active production when making development plans, Dexton Lake, Idaho Farm Bureau Federation government affairs representative, said. The biggest piece of agricultural legislation that failed to pass was SB1245 , which would have shielded pesticide manufacturers from lawsuits over health issues that arose over using their products if their products had appropriate warning labels that were in line with federal regulation. Lake described the bill as a "common sense bill" that says individuals can't sue about something they've already been warned about. Lake said the future success of similar legislation that benefits the agriculture sector is dependent on continuing to educate legislators on key issues for the sector and on stakeholders making their voices heard. “If we want agriculture to continue to have the voice that it does, people have got to speak on its behalf who work in the industry,” Lake said. “Unless they hear from you, from those people, they’re not going to assume that they have an issue with whatever might be coming down the pipeline.”LOS ANGELES--(BUSINESS WIRE)--Dec 21, 2024-- Sunny Health & Fitness , a trailblazer in cardio equipment for over 20 years, is entering an exciting new phase of innovation and evolution. As a leader in the fitness industry, Sunny is not only enhancing its cardio offerings with cutting-edge technology to elevate users' fitness journeys but is also expanding into a comprehensive, one-stop lifestyle brand. With the launch of the Sunny Strength Line , the brand is redefining strength training with a sleek, high-performance collection designed for the fit, design-conscious consumer. This marks a bold new chapter in Sunny’s growth, delivering style, power, and innovation to home gyms everywhere at an affordable price. This press release features multimedia. View the full release here: https://www.businesswire.com/news/home/20241221265768/en/ From Strength to Strength - Unveiling the Sunny Strength Line (Photo: Business Wire) Strength, Style, and Innovation—Designed for the Modern Home Gym The Sunny Strength Line represents the perfect fusion of power and aesthetics. Whether you're an emerging athlete or just someone who values top-quality fitness gear at home, this collection delivers both superior performance and eye-catching design. From heavy-duty machines like racks, benches, and smith machines to stylish free weights, dumbbells, bars, and accessories, every product is engineered to meet the needs of those who want to build muscle and enhance strength, all while maintaining the sleek, modern look of their living spaces. Explore the Sunny Strength video to see how power meets style in this new strength training equipment line: https://youtu.be/j7KcpKa1iyE . Sunny Health & Fitness understands that today’s fitness enthusiasts demand equipment that not only performs but also complements their lifestyle. The Sunny Strength Line was created with versatility, functionality, and design in mind, giving you everything you need to take your strength training to the next level without compromising on the aesthetic of your home gym. With a thoughtfully curated color palette, this is strength training that combines exceptional performance with stunning design. Performance-Driven Strength Training for Every Fitness Journey Building muscle and enhancing strength are cornerstones of living a healthy and active lifestyle, and the Sunny Strength Line is specifically designed to support individuals in achieving these goals. Whether you’re a beginner or want to train like a pro, the line’s diverse range of products ensures there’s an ideal solution for every fitness level and training style. This equipment is built to deliver maximum performance, allowing users to progress efficiently in their strength training and take their fitness to new heights. Sunny Health & Fitness is committed to helping people not only get stronger but also get smarter about their fitness journey. The SunnyFit app , a key part of their digital transformation, offers personalized workout plans, fitness tracking, and progress monitoring—guiding users as they level up their performance. With this seamless integration of high-quality equipment and cutting-edge technology, the Sunny Strength Line provides everything you need to build muscle, boost endurance, and achieve long-term success. About Sunny Health & Fitness For more than two decades, Sunny Health & Fitness has been a leader in the fitness industry, providing affordable, high-quality solutions for home and commercial gyms alike. With its expanding range of strength equipment and digital tools like the SunnyFit app , the company is dedicated to helping individuals reach their fitness goals with style, innovation, and performance. View source version on businesswire.com : https://www.businesswire.com/news/home/20241221265768/en/ CONTACT: Hanna Kim (626) 968-1000 hannak@sunnyhealthfitness.comVisit website:SunnyHealthFitness.com Download SunnyFit now:SunnyFit.com KEYWORD: CALIFORNIA UNITED STATES NORTH AMERICA INDUSTRY KEYWORD: SOFTWARE MEN LIFESTYLE SPECIALTY CONSUMER ELECTRONICS CONSUMER APPS/APPLICATIONS TECHNOLOGY FITNESS & NUTRITION RETAIL WOMEN HEALTH HOME GOODS SOURCE: Sunny Health & Fitness Copyright Business Wire 2024. PUB: 12/21/2024 06:00 PM/DISC: 12/21/2024 06:00 PM http://www.businesswire.com/news/home/20241221265768/enThe surge of drone sightings in New Jersey and across the U.S. has prompted an array of conspiracy theories and false claims online.A joint statement on Dec. 17 from the FBI, Department of Homeland Security, Federal Aviation Administration and Department of Defense said the sightings include legal commercial, hobbyist and law enforcement drones, as well as manned planes and helicopters. Two days later , New York Gov. Kathy Hochul said drones would be banned over certain "critical infrastructure" in the state. The FAA announced similar restrictions in New Jersey.While President Joe Biden said there doesn't appear to be anything "nefarious" about the sightings, social media users have continued to spread misinformation about the aircraft's origin and mission. Related : Debunking false, misleading claims about President-elect Trump | Fact check roundup Here's a roundup of checks about drone sightings from the USA TODAY Fact Check Team: Claim: Video shows drone crash in New Jersey Our rating: False The video does not show a drone crash. The footage is from a Dec. 12 plane crash near the border of New York and Connecticut, according to media reports. Full fact check: Video shows plane wreck near Connecticut, not New Jersey drone crash Claim: Drones deployed in New Jersey to search for missing radioactive material Our rating: False No drones were used in the search for the substance, according to a spokesperson for the New Jersey agency in charge of overseeing its recovery. The first drone sightings predate the misplacement of the substance by two weeks. Full fact check: Drones were not used to find radioactive material lost in New Jersey Claim: Pentagon ‘confirmed’ drones spotted in US skies are ‘not of earthly origin’ Our rating: False The Pentagon said nothing of the sort. While a spokesperson ruled out a foreign “adversary" or the U.S. military as operators of the crafts, she suggested other possible explanations for the sightings in the same news conference. Full fact check: Pentagon spokesperson did not 'confirm' drones were from space Claim: Image shows drone that crashed in Alabama in December 2024 Our rating: False The image has circulated online since at least February 2023 and shows a replica spacecraft from the "Star Wars" movies. Full fact check: No, that's not a crashed drone. It's a TIE fighter replica Thank you for supporting our journalism. You can subscribe to our print edition, ad-free app or e-newspaper here . USA TODAY is a verified signatory of the International Fact-Checking Network, which requires a demonstrated commitment to nonpartisanship, fairness and transparency. Our fact-check work is supported in part by a grant from Meta .
GREELEY, Colo. , Dec. 23, 2024 /PRNewswire/ -- ALLO Fiber is pleased to announce its fiber broadband network build of the City of Boulder, CO. ALLO anticipates construction to begin in the spring of 2025 in city rights-of-way and easements. This fiber connection will enable world-class internet, broadband, cybersecurity, managed services, telephone, and video services for residents and businesses. City Manager Nuria Rivera-Vandermyde said, "We are thrilled to work with ALLO to bring affordable and reliable high-speed internet to every corner of Boulder. This partnership will provide significant benefits to our community. From empowering students and small businesses, to supporting remote work and ensuring that no one is left behind in the digital age." ALLO was founded in 2003, and over the last 21 years has expanded its fiber footprint to reach over one million in population, with a goal to end the digital divide. ALLO maintains a commitment to offering local, hassle-free products and services to the 48 communities it serves. ALLO Colorado General Manager Bob Beiersdorf stated, "We are extremely pleased to be building a world-class fiber to the premises (FTTP) network in Boulder . The opportunity to offer multi-gig, symmetrical speeds to residents, businesses, government, and the education community with consistent network reliability opens the door to immense possibilities for the city. Partnering with the City of Boulder is paramount in providing equitable services to its residents and that spirit of partnership has been exceptional to date." The fiber network will feature up to 10 Gigabit speeds for residents and up to 100 Gigabit speeds for businesses, providing equal upload and download speeds optimized by ALLO's world-class Wi-Fi 7 routers. Boulder residents, businesses of all sizes, and governmental entities will be supported by ALLO's fiber-rich network, which delivers active and passive solutions without installation fees or restrictive contracts. Internet, data transport, cloud connectivity, video, voice, next-generation firewalls, cybersecurity, and phone systems are included in ALLO's comprehensive communications, entertainment, and business products and services. Boulder is ALLO's eleventh market in Colorado . ALLO currently has customers in Breckenridge , Brighton , Brush , Eaton , Erie , Evans , Fort Morgan , Greeley , Hudson , and Kersey . Visit AlloFiber.com/ Boulder and AlloFiber.com/careers for more information. About ALLO Communications ALLO Communications, a leader in providing fiber-optic services, has been dedicated to delivering world-class communications and entertainment services since 2003. With a commitment to building Gigabit communities, ALLO serves over 50 communities across Nebraska , Colorado , Arizona , Missouri , Iowa , and Kansas . ALLO is known for reliable fiber networks and customized technology solutions that support businesses of all sizes. For more information, visit AlloFiber.com . Tanna Hanna Vice President of Marketing Tanna.Hanna@allofiber.com 308-633-7815 View original content to download multimedia: https://www.prnewswire.com/news-releases/the-power-of-allos-all-fiber-network-coming-to-boulder-colorado-302338556.html SOURCE ALLO CommunicationsOur writers and editors independently determine what we cover and recommend. When you buy through our links, E! may earn a commission. Learn more . Uh-oh, did Christmas Day and Hanukkah sneak up on you? The holiday season is moving at lightning speed, right? Whether you totally forgot a gift or you're scrambling to get one for an unexpected Christmas Eve guest, don’t panic. Gift cards are a total lifesaver, and honestly, they're one of the most thoughtful presents you can give. In fact, I think a gift certificate is the perfect gift. Why? Because you’re giving the gift of choice—letting the recipient pick exactly what they want, when they want it. Plus, a digital gift card is quick, easy, and always appreciated. So, if you’re in a last-minute bind, I’ve got you covered with some E! Shopping Editor -approved gift card options from REI, Zappos, and more popular retailers. A gift certificate is a great stocking stuffer, a stress-free last minute Christmas gift, and the best buy when you want to give a present your family member will actually use. Holiday gift shopping should not be stressful. Make your life easier with a thoughtful gift idea that no one will return. Allbirds : Treat someone to sustainable, fashionable Allbirds footwear they’ll love, while giving them the freedom to choose their favorite styles and colors. e.l.f. Cosmetics : Explore a wide range of affordable, high-performance beauty products. Harry & David : Select from a wide variety of gourmet food, premium gift baskets, and sweet treats, making it the perfect choice for any occasion. Kora Organics : A gift card for Miranda Kerr's brand, Kora Organics, lets the recipient indulge in luxurious, organic skincare. Pacifica Beauty : Explore a wide range of vegan and cruelty-free skincare, makeup, and wellness products to enhance their beauty routine. Peter Thomas Roth : Experience high-performance skincare products designed to address a range of skin concerns. Pura Vida : Choose from unique, handmade accessories and jewelry that support artisans worldwide. Rebecca Minkoff : Explore a collection of premium handbags, accessories, and apparel that fit their unique style. REI : Help someone gear up for their next outdoor adventure, giving them the freedom to choose from high-quality equipment and apparel. Saks Off Fifth : Shop designer brands at unbeatable prices, finding the perfect fashion pieces, shoes, and accessories. Soma : Discover a range of comfortable and luxurious lingerie, sleepwear, and loungewear. Sorel : Find the perfect pair of durable, versatile footwear for any season. Spongelle : Indulge in luxurious body care products, offering a range of exfoliating sponges and skincare essentials for a spa-like experience. Uniqlo : Enjoy a selection of versatile, high-quality clothing and accessories. Zappos : Shop a wide selection of shoes, clothing, and accessories. Digital gift cards are a lifesaver for last-minute holiday shopping, especially as Christmas Day nears. With instant delivery and the ability to choose from a wide selection, they make for a great gift when you're pressed for time. You can easily purchase them online with a credit card and have them sent directly to the recipient’s inbox, allowing them to pick exactly what they want. Plus, many platforms offer personalization, adding a thoughtful touch. Digital gift cards are the perfect solution for quick, stress-free gift shopping this holiday season. Purchasing and sending instant Christmas gifts online has never been easier, especially if you're looking for a quick solution just before Christmas Eve. To get started, simply choose the best gift for your family member or loved one by browsing digital gift cards on trusted platforms. Popular websites like Amazon, Zappos, and REI offer quick and seamless instant gift solutions, allowing you to purchase and send a gift card directly to the recipient’s inbox. Be sure to enter your personal information securely when completing the purchase, and consider adding a personalized message to make the gift extra special. Many platforms also allow you to customize the design and amount of the gift card, ensuring the recipients will appreciate the thoughtfulness behind it. With digital gift cards, you can skip the hassle of traditional shopping and ensure your loved ones receive a gift they’ll truly enjoy. Personalization services can significantly enhance the value of a gift card, making it feel more like the ultimate gift rather than a last-minute option. Many popular retailers now offer a range of personalized gift cards, allowing you to customize designs and messages that reflect the gift recipient's unique tastes and interests. From adding a thoughtful note to selecting a themed card design, these features make the gift feel special and tailored. Current trends in gift card personalization include offering options like custom images, animated designs, or even the ability to select the card's delivery time. Choosing the right personalization option not only shows extra thought but also makes the gift more memorable and meaningful, ensuring your gift recipient feels truly valued. With a variety of customizable gift cards available, this thoughtful touch can turn a quick gift into something extraordinary. Gift cards are the ultimate solution for last-minute gift-giving, offering unmatched convenience and flexibility. Whether it's a digital or personalized option, gift cards allow you to send a thoughtful gift in an instant, making them a go-to choice for busy shoppers. Digital gift cards provide the advantage of quick delivery, while personalized cards add that extra touch to make the gift feel more meaningful. As technology continues to shape the gift card industry, we can expect even more customization options and seamless delivery methods in the future. With trends like instant gift solutions and increasingly personalized designs, gift cards are evolving to meet the needs of modern shoppers, ensuring they remain a staple in the world of gift-giving. Still shopping? You'll love these last-minute gifts that don't look last-minute . The E! Insider Shop editors and writers search the internet to find the best products out there. We interview expert sources, comb through customer reviews, and use our own personal experiences to make shopping easier for our readers. As an editorial team, we independently create content and determine coverage based on research, reporting and what we think our readers would like to read about. The goal of our content is to provide a service and inform readers who are on the hunt for the latest products to help make their life better. Items are sold by retailer, not E!. Pricing and availability are accurate as of publish time.
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Wall Street experienced a surge on Tuesday, driven largely by rebounds in technology stocks as the S&P 500 and Nasdaq led the way. The uptick came amid investor analysis of President-elect Donald Trump's trade tariff promises and the latest Federal Reserve minutes, which suggested a potential divide on interest rate strategies. The Federal Reserve's minutes revealed a cautious approach to future monetary policy guidance, leaving analysts to speculate on adjustments ahead. Jamie Cox expressed confidence in a forthcoming rate cut, though others, like Paul Ashworth, warned that such decisions would hinge on forthcoming economic data, including employment and inflation metrics. President Trump announced potential tariffs on Canadian and Mexican imports, disrupting automakers reliant on cross-border supply chains, as seen with significant drops in General Motors' stock. In contrast, major tech players like Microsoft and Apple buoyed the Nasdaq, highlighting the market's mixed reactions amid ongoing trade uncertainties. (With inputs from agencies.)None
Blockchain Gaming Market: Exploring Leading Global Companies, Strategic Business Insights, Growth Opportunities, Regional Trends, and Size Forecast for the Period Up to 2031Davis scores 32 as Old Dominion defeats UL Monroe 80-75 in OT
Crossing the Uncanny Valley: Breakthrough in technology for lifelike facial expressions in androids December 23, 2024 Osaka University Even highly realistic androids can cause unease when their facial expressions lack emotional consistency. Traditionally, a 'patchwork method' has been used for facial movements, but it comes with practical limitations. A team developed a new technology using 'waveform movements' to create real-time, complex expressions without unnatural transitions. This system reflects internal states, enhancing emotional communication between robots and humans, potentially making androids feel more humanlike. Facebook Twitter Pinterest LinkedIN Email A research group led by Osaka University has developed a technology that allows androids to dynamically express their mood states, such as "excited" or "sleepy," by synthesizing facial movements as superimposed decaying waves. Even if an android's appearance is so realistic that it could be mistaken for a human in a photograph, watching it move in person can feel a bit unsettling. It can smile, frown, or display other various, familiar expressions, but finding a consistent emotional state behind those expressions can be difficult, leaving you unsure of what it is truly feeling and creating a sense of unease. Until now, when allowing robots that can move many parts of their face, like androids, to display facial expressions for extended periods, a 'patchwork method' has been used. This method involves preparing multiple pre-arranged action scenarios to ensure that unnatural facial movements are excluded while switching between these scenarios as needed. However, this poses practical challenges, such as preparing complex action scenarios beforehand, minimizing noticeable unnatural movements during transitions, and fine-tuning movements to subtly control the expressions conveyed. In this study, lead author Hisashi Ishihara and his research group developed a dynamic facial expression synthesis technology using "waveform movements," which represents various gestures that constitute facial movements, such as "breathing," "blinking," and "yawning," as individual waves. These waves are propagated to the related facial areas and are overlaid to generate complex facial movements in real time. This method eliminates the need for the preparation of complex and diverse action data while also avoiding noticeable movement transitions. Furthermore, by introducing "waveform modulation," which adjusts the individual waveforms based on the robot's internal state, changes in internal conditions, such as mood, can be instantly reflected as variations in facial movements. "Advancing this research in dynamic facial expression synthesis will enable robots capable of complex facial movements to exhibit more lively expressions and convey mood changes that respond to their surrounding circumstances, including interactions with humans," says senior author Koichi Osuka. "This could greatly enrich emotional communication between humans and robots." Ishihara adds, "Rather than creating superficial movements, further development of a system in which internal emotions are reflected in every detail of an android's actions could lead to the creation of androids perceived as having a heart." By realizing the function to adaptively adjust and express emotions, this technology is expected to significantly enhance the value of communication robots, allowing them to exchange information with humans in a more natural, humanlike manner. Story Source: Materials provided by Osaka University . Note: Content may be edited for style and length. Related Multimedia : Journal Reference : Cite This Page :None
Tottenham joins list of top Premier League teams to lose at Bournemouth as fans jeer Postecoglou
Albania declares one-year TikTok ban over stabbingDanish central bank reports strong bank earnings amid rising risksFocused Energy, a fusion power startup, has signed an agreement to secure two of the world’s most powerful lasers, specifically designed for their critical role in nuclear fusion research. This strategic acquisition, made in partnership with leading laser manufacturer Amplitude, marks a significant step forward in Focused Energy’s mission to achieve inertial confinement fusion (ICF). The inertial confinement fusion technology offers a potential solution to the world’s growing energy needs with a limitless source of clean power. “These laser systems will serve as the technological foundation from which Focused Energy will build the modular laser arrays necessary for a fusion pilot plant capable of supplying clean energy to the grid,” said the startup in a press release. Focused Energy’s ICF uses high-power lasers Focused Energy’s inertial confinement fusion process utilizes many high-power lasers directed at a small fuel pellet. The lasers’ energy compresses the pellet, increasing its density and temperature to extreme levels. This triggers a fusion reaction, mirroring the process that occurs within the sun, and releases a substantial amount of energy. This method has already achieved a historic milestone by demonstrating net-positive fusion power in 2022, thanks to a breakthrough by the US’ National Ignition Facility (NIF). This net-positive power means the fusion reaction generates more energy than the lasers used to start it. However, the path to commercially viable fusion power still presents challenges that scientists and engineers are trying to overcome. Overcoming challenges in fusion power To address the challenges, Focused Energy is making an investment in laser technology. The two lasers they are acquiring from Amplitude are classified as kilo-joule class and are designed for high energy output and repetition rates. These characteristics are vital for conducting the experiments needed to advance fusion research, particularly for optimizing the compression of deuterium-tritium fuel pellets. “Under Focused Energy’s direct drive laser fusion approach, lasers compress and then ignite millimeter-scale deuterium/tritium fusion fuel targets,” explained the press release . The new lasers will enable Focused Energy to investigate the complexities of laser performance and fusion target design. A notable feature of these lasers is their ability to fire a laser pulse every 60 seconds. This allows for a rapid experimental process. Promise of fusion energy Focused Energy is constructing a new facility in the San Francisco Bay Area to house these lasers. This facility, expected to be operational within the next two years, will serve as a center for fusion research. “Once commercial fusion is reached, three soda cans worth of deuterium/tritium fusion fuel will be able to power a city the size of San Francisco for a day,” emphasized Fusion Energy. Focused Energy’s direct drive laser fusion approach is considered one of the most promising paths to achieving commercially viable fusion energy. Apart from Focused Energy, several other startups are working on developing a nuclear fusion reactor. One of them is MIT spin-off Commonwealth Fusion Systems (CFS), which recently announced that it will build the world’s first grid-scale commercial fusion power plant in Virginia.
Emera Inc. stock rises Thursday, still underperforms market
S&P/TSX composite ticks lower, U.S. markets rise after latest Trump tariff threatTottenham joins list of top Premier League teams to lose at Bournemouth as fans jeer Postecoglou Manchester City, Arsenal, and now Tottenham. The list of top Premier League teams beaten at Bournemouth this season is growing. Steve Douglas, The Associated Press Dec 5, 2024 3:20 PM Share by Email Share on Facebook Share on X Share on LinkedIn Print Share via Text Message Bournemouth's Dean Huijsen celebrates scoring the opening goal during the English Premier League soccer match between AFC Bournemouth and Tottenham Hotspur in Bournemouth, England, Thursday, Dec. 5, 2024. (Adam Davy/PA via AP) Manchester City, Arsenal, and now Tottenham. The list of top Premier League teams beaten at Bournemouth this season is growing. Dean Huijsen took advantage of Tottenham’s weakness at set pieces to head home a 17th-minute winner in Bournemouth’s 1-0 victory on Thursday. After the game, some Spurs fans appeared to vent their frustration at manager Ange Postecoglou when he went over to the away contingent following his team's insipid display. “They are pretty disappointed, rightly so, and I got some pretty direct feedback as to how we are going,” the Australian coach said, “and that's fair enough.” Bournemouth climbed to ninth — a point and a place above Tottenham in the standings — and underlined its penchant for surprising high-profile visitors to Vitality Stadium. Man City’s remarkable four-game losing run in the Premier League started with a 2-1 defeat at Bournemouth, while fellow title contender Arsenal’s first loss of the season also came at the Vitality, 2-0 on Oct. 19. This was Spurs' sixth defeat of the campaign. They now have as many wins as losses, highlighting the inconsistency blighting their season, and their seven away results so far make remarkable reading: aside from a 3-0 win at Manchester United and a 4-0 thrashing of Man City, Tottenham has lost four and drawn the other at relegation candidate Leicester. “We've got to get out of this space we're in at the moment where we're just not able to get a real grip on our season,” Postecoglou said. An inability to defend set plays continues to hurt Postecoglou’s team. A week after Roma scored twice from them in a 2-2 draw in the Europa League, Huijsen roamed free in the area at a corner and headed home unmarked. Postecoglou said in May said he “wasn’t interested” about his side’s fallibility while defending set pieces, and said after losing 1-0 to Arsenal in September — after a goal from Gabriel at a corner — that “it’s my burden to carry and I’m happy to do that.” “We started well and conceded a really poor goal," Postecoglou said after the Bournemouth game. “It’s a difficult place to come when giving the opposition the opportunity to play in the manner they want.” IWOBI DOUBLE Alex Iwobi scored goals early and late in the game to lead Fulham to a 3-1 win over Brighton. The Nigeria winger intercepted a stray pass out from the back by Brighton goalkeeper Bart Verbruggen and slotted into an unguarded net for the opener in the fourth minute and curled home Fulham’s clinching goal in the 87th. Carlos Baleba equalized for Brighton in the 56th before Brighton midfielder Matt O’Riley – a former Fulham academy player – deflected the ball into his own net from a corner to put the home side back in front. Fulham climbed to sixth in the standings, a point and a place behind Brighton. ___ AP soccer: https://apnews.com/hub/soccer Steve Douglas, The Associated Press See a typo/mistake? Have a story/tip? This has been shared 0 times 0 Shares Share by Email Share on Facebook Share on X Share on LinkedIn Print Share via Text Message Get your daily Victoria news briefing Email Sign Up More Soccer Napoli out of Italian Cup as Tijjani Noslin scores hat trick in 3-1 win for Lazio Dec 5, 2024 2:40 PM Messi and Inter Miami to open Club World Cup against Egyptian club Al Ahly Dec 5, 2024 12:41 PM Trump addresses Club World Cup draw through prerecorded video Dec 5, 2024 11:32 AMUBS Arena crowd not happy as Islanders fall to lowly Sabres before holiday break