After rough start under coach Mike Macdonald, the Seahawks' defense has become a strength
NC Rep. Patrick McHenry went from ‘rabble-rouser’ to ‘elder statesman.’ Now he’s moving onSANTA CLARA, Calif. (AP) — Dan Campbell stood at the podium after Detroit blew a 17-point lead to San Francisco in last season's NFC title game and talked about how that might have been the Lions' only shot at reaching the Super Bowl. The coach knew how difficult it would be to maintain that high level of play through injuries, attrition and with a target on their back as a top contender in the NFC. Javascript is required for you to be able to read premium content. Please enable it in your browser settings.
Daniel Jones is free to sign with any NFL team after clearing waivers on Monday, which also means the team that signs the former New York Giants quarterback won't be on the hook for the nearly $12 million that was remaining on his contract this year or his $23 million injury guarantee. Jones was released at his request by the Giants on Saturday after the former first-round pick was benched last week. He reportedly wants to join a contender, and there are expected to be multiple teams interested. The two teams reported to have the most initial interest in Jones are also being offered as the most likely to sign him by one sportsbook. The Baltimore Ravens currently have journeyman backup Josh Johnson behind starting quarterback Lamar Jackson. Jones would potentially provide a third option, and one whose mobility could make him an intriguing fit in offensive coordinator Todd Monken's system The Ravens were installed as the 2/1 favorites to land Jones ahead of the Minnesota Vikings (5/2), who have veterans Nick Mullens and Brett Rypien behind starter Sam Darnold. They would likely view Jones as an upgrade. "I really can't get into too much about any short-term or long-term," Vikings coach Kevin O'Connell said Monday when asked about Jones, per ESPN's Adam Schefter. "I can just say that I've been a big fan of Daniel's for a long time and I hope wherever his next step takes him, it's a good opportunity for him." The Las Vegas Raiders (5/1) don't fall into the category of contenders after falling to 2-9 amid a seven-game losing streak. However, they could provide the most immediate opportunity to play with Gardner Minshew suffering a season-ending broken collarbone on Sunday that is expected to end his season. Second-year quarterback Aidan O'Connell is close to returning from a thumb injury, but coach Antonio Pierce acknowledged after Sunday's game that, "We're going to need somebody, right?" If O'Connell isn't ready to face the Kansas City Chiefs on Black Friday, Desmond Ridder is expected to get the start. The Dallas Cowboys (7/1) would fall into a similar category, with Dak Prescott out for the season following hamstring surgery and being replaced by Cooper Rush. Another intriguing possibility lies with Detroit, where the 10-1 Lions' offense is rolling with Jared Goff at the helm. However, should he go down to injury the only other quarterback on the roster is rookie Hendon Hooker. That has contributed to the Lions having 7/1 odds to sign Jones. DANIEL JONES NEXT TEAM ODDS* Baltimore Ravens (2/1) Minnesota Vikings (5/2) Las Vegas Raiders (5/1) Dallas Cowboys (7/1) Detroit Lions (7/1) Miami Dolphins (7/1) San Francisco 49ers (8/1) Carolina Panthers (10/1) Seattle Seahawks (16/1) Indianapolis Colts (20/1) New England Patriots (25/1) New Orleans Saints (25/1) New York Jets (25/1) Tennessee Titans (25/1) Atlanta Falcons (28/1) Arizona Cardinals (33/1) Chicago Bears (33/1) Cleveland Browns (33/1) Denver Broncos (33/1) Jacksonville Jaguars (40/1) Los Angeles Chargers (50/1) Los Angeles Rams (50/1) Pittsburgh Steelers (50/1) Tampa Bay Buccaneers (50/1) Washington Commanders (50/1) Cincinnati Bengals (66/1) Green Bay Packers (66/1) Houston Texans (66/1) Philadelphia Eagles (66/1) Buffalo Bills (75/1) Kansas City Chiefs (75/1) Any CFL Team (80/1) Any XFL Team (80/1) *Odds provided by SportsBetting.ag are for entertainment purposes only. --Field Level MediaTimeline Manmohan Singh\'s five-decade-old career in bureaucracy and politicsNone
"For our part, we are open to an honest dialogue based on mutual respect and appreciation of interests, whether the new American administration will take advantage of this chance is a big question," said Ryabkov, in an interview for Komsomol Pravda. Answering the question whether there are political forces in the United States of America that are interested in cooperation with Russia, he stated that there are practically no "friends of Moscow" among the American political class, whose representatives see the Russian Federation as an existential threat. "In conditions where anti-Russian hysteria has become widespread in the United States, anyone who sympathizes with the Russians immediately finds himself marginalized. Donald Trump himself and his entourage are sending mixed signals in attacking the current administration, adhering to the principles of 'America first' and 'peace through strength', which do not fit into our national interests," Ryabkov pointed out. He pointed out that neglecting the other party's security interests can be a "two-way street", and the West's attempts to harm Russia "push us to look for security vulnerabilities among our enemies". Russia could respond with both reciprocal and asymmetric measures if Western countries do not heed its warnings, Ryabkov said. "We have long since moved away from drawing some speculative red lines. After a series of aggressive actions by the West, we have switched to a different mode, by sending adversaries strict warnings about the concrete consequences of their steps that pose a threat to us. If they do not hear us, we switch to practical measures reaction," warned Ryabkov. As he stated, among the current warning signals is the test launch of the newest medium-range hypersonic weapon system "Oreshnik" at one of the legitimate military targets in Ukraine. "At the same time, this step is not only an indication of a possible form of reaction to the acutely escalating actions of the United States and NATO in the context of the Ukrainian crisis, but also a demonstration of Russia's potential response to the deployment of American medium- and short-range missiles in various regions of the world," Ryabkov concluded. Podeli:SCOTTSDALE, AZ — Former Arizona Coyotes left winger Paul Bissonnette was allegedly assaulted outside a Scottsdale restaurant Sunday night. Scottsdale police say it happened around 7:30 p.m. at the Houston's restaurant near McDonald Drive and Scottsdale Road. According to police, there was an altercation inside the restaurant involving six men and management. Police say Bissonnette tried to help management calm the men and get them to leave, the situation then "escalated to the men assaulting Paul Bissonnette both inside and outside the restaurant." The six men involved were arrested, police say. Bissonnette was taken to a hospital for evaluation for minor injuries. Bissonnette posted on social media saying that the men appeared to be drunk and disorderly, so he approached them to protect restaurant staff members who were allegedly being harassed. He said the incident escalated to a physical fight between the six men and him. The six suspects face charges ranging from misdemeanor assault and disorderly conduct to felony aggravated assault. The investigation remains ongoing.
Dir Agri Kmr flags off progressive farmers for 5-day interstate training prog
Published 5:03 pm Friday, December 6, 2024 By PA News By Chris Moore Special to The News PORT NECHES — Burnt orange and Cardinal red were sprinkled into the mass of purple teachers, friends and family that showed up to Port Neches-Groves High School on Wednesday to see Jackson Christian and Mason Wuenschel sign letters of intent to play college ball. Get the latest news sent to your inbox Christian, one of the top offensive linemen in the state, signed with the University of Texas Longhorns, while Wuenschel, who plays linebacker for PNG signed to play both football and baseball for the Lamar Cardinals. Christian said he felt good to get the signing out of the way, even though he made the decision to choose Texas public back in May. “A lot of stress is gone,” he said. “I am very excited that I picked a good school. I am very excited to get there and start working.” The lineman said Texas started recruiting him early in the process, offering him his fourth scholarship. “They have great coaches, and I believe they are the best at what do,” he said. Christian said it felt good to share the moment with his teammate. “Right now, I am still a PNG Indian,” he said. “I haven’t closed that chapter of my life. I hope I get three more weeks to do that.” Wuenschel said he is grateful to be able to be able to be a dual-sport athlete at the next level. “I am just thankful for the coaches to allow me to be able to play two sports at Lamar,” he said. Wuenschel is coming off one of his most impactful games as an Indian. He forced a fumble on the first play of the game against Texas High School in the third-round playoff match up. Wuenschel also threw a TD pass and ran one in out of the team’s wildcat package. “It’s all about my teammates and them putting me in positions to make plays,” he said. PNG Head Coach Jeff Joseph said the two players’ dedication is unmatched. “They are gifted with good size,” he said. “They are athletic, but they didn’t take that for granted. They go to work every single day. Despite being bigger than most people, they put in work in the weight room and in practice. They do everything at full speed and to the best of their ability. I know they are going to get the most out of themselves in college.nCino to Participate in Upcoming Investor ConferencesBiden administration to loan $6.6B to EV maker Rivian to build Georgia factory that automaker paused
Singapore MPA Delegation Visits NYK’s Ammonia-Bunkering FacilitiesSANTA CLARA, Calif. (AP) — Dan Campbell stood at the podium after Detroit blew a 17-point lead to San Francisco in last season's NFC title game and talked about how that might have been the Lions' only shot at reaching the Super Bowl. The coach knew how difficult it would be to maintain that high level of play through injuries, attrition and with a target on their back as a top contender in the NFC. Eleven months later as Campbell and the Lions prepare to return to Levi's Stadium for the first time since that loss , that has proved to be prophetic — for San Francisco instead of Detroit. The Lions (13-2) head into the rematch Monday night with the inside track at the top seed in the NFC playoffs, while the 49ers (6-9) have already been eliminated from postseason contention . The element of revenge for last season's 34-31 loss is secondary for Detroit, considering what's on the line the last two weeks of the season. The Lions can clinch the top seed in the NFC by winning their final two games or with a win against the Niners if Minnesota loses to Green Bay on Sunday. “Anytime we lose, the thought of losing is going to motivate you to not want to lose again, particularly with where you were at,” Campbell said. “So, that’s always going to bring its own level of motivation to it. But this is where we’re at in the season, we know that we need another win, we understand where we’re at in the division and the NFC, so I think it’s all encompassing.” While the Lions have no need to search for motivation, that's not the case for the 49ers, who are playing out the string of a lost season after making losing back-to-back NFC title games in 2021-22 and the Super Bowl last season. A run of injuries to key players like Christian McCaffrey, Trent Williams, Nick Bosa and Brandon Aiyuk, combined with inconsistent play all season have led to the 49ers having nothing to play for in the final two games. “It’s obviously not where you want to be this time of year,” Bosa said. "It’s different, especially watching where we’re at last year against this team. Just that feeling of December, January football is a feeling that I’ve gotten used to being really competitive and being in the mix. I think we’re doing a good job of staying engaged and obviously this is our job, so we’re going to finish it strong. Detroit’s faith in Jameson Williams is paying off, taking advantage of his game-breaking abilities with big plays. Jared Goff heaved an 82-yard touchdown pass over Williams’ shoulders and into his hands in last week’s win at Chicago. Earlier this season, Goff threw 70-, 64- and 52-yard passes for scores to the third-year receiver. “We work on it a ton, him and I do, and it’s a testament to him,” Goff said. “He’s asking for it. He wants that work, and I’m more than happy to give it to him during the week. It’s good. Our connection continues to grow. He’s obviously one of the best deep threats in our league, even when it’s not perfect.” The 49ers head into the game scrambling to put together an offensive line. Williams has been out for more than a month with an ankle injury and his backup at left tackle, Jaylon Moore, is now sidelined by a quadriceps injury. Left guard Aaron Banks injured his knee last week, while his backup Ben Bartch is already out with an ankle injury. That will leave the Niners with two third-stringers protecting Brock Purdy. But Shanahan said he isn’t thinking of sitting Purdy to protect him. “People deal with that throughout the year on other weeks, too,” he said. “I mean, we’ve got a football team. We’ve got to go out and we’ve got two games here and we’ve got to see what guys we can put out there and whatever we do we’re going to put a game plan together to, as best as we can to give us a chance to win.” Lions offensive coordinator Ben Johnson, who may have a chance for the second straight offseason to be an NFL head coach, routinely pulls off trick plays and his latest was a doozy. Goff intentionally stumbled after taking a snap and Jahmyr Gibbs went to the ground as their teammates yelled, “fumble,” to fool the Bears on a 21-yard touchdown pass to Sam LaPorta. “Those make you feel good because everybody is invested in it,” Campbell said. “It’s fun. It’s different. It’s sound. “I know it sounds crazy, but it’s sound.” San Francisco kicker Jake Moody is having a rough second season after being drafted in the third round a year ago. Moody has missed seven field goals this season, including a 41-yarder last week at Miami. Moody is just 10 for 16 since coming back from a high ankle sprain in his kicking foot, but Shanahan said he still has confidence in him. “I still feel the same about him, that I believe he’ll be our guy,” Shanahan said. "I mean everyone’s got to perform and do things like that. I think he has had a tough year. Before his high ankle sprain, he missed one. ... I think he was 12 of 13 before that, so I thought he was doing really well." AP Sports Writer Larry Lage contributed to this report. AP NFL: https://apnews.com/hub/nfl
NoneDaniel Jones Next Team Odds: Contenders jockeying for QB?
New York's 'Mom Squad' urges Hochul to sign child care bills into law
SEATTLE (AP) — The Seattle Seahawks rode their dominant defense to a big win over a division rival to vault into first place in the NFC West. No, it isn’t 2013. These are the 2024 Seahawks, who, after struggling mightily against the run earlier this season, held the visiting Arizona Cardinals to 49 rushing yards in Sunday's 16-6 victory . The defensive line kept Kyler Murray under consistent pressure thanks to a dominant performance from Leonard Williams, the secondary flew around to smack away passes, and safety Coby Bryant scored on a 69-yard pick-6. Sunday's defensive performance was reminiscent of the Seahawks of a decade ago and a promising sign that first-year coach Mike Macdonald’s system is starting to click. Macdonald, who coordinated Baltimore's NFL-best defense last year, was leading one of the worst rush defenses in the league earlier this season. But Seattle consistently stuffed the Cardinals, who came in as the fifth-best running team in the league at 149.4 yards per game. “Three games in a row now we played pretty decent on defense,” Macdonald said. “There is an expectation and standard here throughout the course of our Seahawks history that we’re trying to live up to and build on. So that’s the idea.” At 6-5, the Seahawks drew even with the Cardinals in the tightly bunched division. The teams play each other again in two weeks at Arizona. Last month's trade for linebacker Ernest Jones IV has clearly paid off. Seattle hasn't allowed a running back to rush for more than 79 yards since its Week 8 loss to Buffalo, which was Jones' first game in a Seahawks uniform. He has led the team in tackles in every game he's played and has helped resurrect the run defense. The Seahawks' run game continues to underperform. Seattle got 65 yards on the ground Sunday, with the Cardinals holding Kenneth Walker III to 41 yards on 16 attempts. Zach Charbonnet had 22 yards on six carries. Walker hasn’t topped 100 yards since Week 1. Offensive coordinator Ryan Grubb needs to think of something different to get the running backs involved. Williams single-handedly disrupted the Cardinals with 2 1/2 sacks, four quarterback hits, three tackles for loss and one pass defensed. “I thought he was dominant,” Macdonald said. “I knew he played great and then I looked at the stat line and he played out of his mind.” The Seahawks finished with five sacks, seven quarterback hits, five tackles for loss and six pass deflections against the Cardinals, shutting down a team that had averaged 29.3 points over its previous three games. Geno Smith finished with 254 yards passing and a touchdown, but he threw another momentum-stalling interception. Smith was picked off on a third-and-6 play on the Arizona 18-yard line at the start of the fourth quarter, ending an 11-play, 73-yard drive. Smith has an NFL-most 12 interceptions this season, more than in either of his previous two seasons as the Seahawks' full-time starter. “That was a huge drive for us. ... Obviously made a terrible mistake down there, something I got to clean up,” Smith said. “But it was a big drive. We wanted to put the game ahead at least two scores.” The offensive line has contributed to the problem. Guard Anthony Bradford left with an ankle injury, and the line struggled to protect Smith, who was sacked five times. Macdonald said Bradford is expected to miss next week's game. 77 — Jaxon Smith-Njigba led the team with six catches for 77 yards and a touchdown, marking the fourth consecutive game that Smith-Njigba has led the team in receptions. He topped 100 yards receiving in the previous two games. “He’s getting open,” Smith said. “He’s catching the ball. He’s doing a great job in the screen game. All-around great player. I just think the way that teams are playing us coverage-wise, I feel like it’s the ultimate sign of respect.” The Seahawks play at the struggling New York Jets on Sunday. AP NFL: https://apnews.com/hub/nflAndalucía Trade organizes a “trade mission” to the ‘European Hydrogen Week’ in Belgium with six Andalusian companies The Business Agency for Economic Transformation and Development, Andalucía Trade, has organised the presence of six Andalusian companies from the green hydrogen sector at the ‘European Hydrogen Week 2024’, which was held from 18 to 21 November in Brussels. As detailed by the Agency in a note, at this event the Ministry of Industry, Energy and Mines, together with the Andalusian Energy Agency, have led the presence of Andalusia at the European Hydrogen Week with an exhibitor and active participation in the B2B conferences organized by the Commission and in the High-Level Political Conference. This trade mission also coincided on 20 November with a visit by the Deputy Minister of Industry, Energy and Mines, Ana María Vielba, to the Andalusian Energy Agency’s exhibition space at the show, where she had the opportunity to interact with participating companies from Huelva and Seville. Within the framework of this action, the six Andalusian firms have had the opportunity to “explore reference clusters and projects” in Belgium and the Netherlands, with notable visits to the Port of Antwerp and companies such as the Belgian Fluxys Hydrogen, “thus strengthening strategic connections for the development of this key area for renewable energies.” The main objective of this action has thus been to “boost the internationalisation of Andalusian green hydrogen”. In addition, it has sought to “strengthen strategic alliances in a key sector for the energy transition, helping to consolidate Andalusia as a leader in sustainable solutions”. The trade mission’s agenda began on November 19 with a visit to the Centre on Regulation in Europe (Cerre), a Brussels-based think tank specialising in “the regulation of key sectors of the European economy, such as energy, telecommunications, transport and the digital economy.” The Andalusian delegation then met with the Dutch hydrogen cluster (NL Hydrogen) at the event, which included the presence of Dutch firms HyGear, Nedstack, SoluForce, Hydrogen Valley Noord-Holland; as well as knowledge institutions such as TNO and New Energy Coalition; and representatives of the port of Rotterdam (Haven Rotterdam). Representatives of Provincie Zuid-Holland also participated, an entity that “promotes strategic projects for the production and use of green hydrogen in industry and sustainable mobility in the southern region of the Netherlands.” The delegation also held meetings with Groen Vermogen NL, a Dutch initiative focused on “boosting green hydrogen projects to support the energy transition”; Stirling Cryogenics, a company specialising in “cryogenic technologies based on Stirling engines”; and Air Products, “a global company of US origin, leader in industrial gases and hydrogen technologies”. During the afternoon, networking activities took place at the exhibitors’ stands. On November 20, the trade mission also visited Fluxys Hydrogen, a Belgian firm specializing in natural gas and hydrogen infrastructure that will operate the country’s hydrogen network. This independent operator estimates that the first hydrogen networks could be operational in the country by mid-2026. They also held a meeting with Hydrogen Europe, the main European association representing the hydrogen industry, including companies, research organizations and other key players. This meeting was coordinated by the Andalusian Energy Agency, which is a member of the aforementioned association. Likewise, this Thursday the Andalusian delegation closed the mission with a visit to the main green hydrogen projects in the Port of Antwerp, highlighting the upcoming installation of “one of the largest electrolysers manufactured by AEM Electrolyser.” In addition, the strategic agreement with the Port of Namibia was explored, which will allow “storing green hydrogen produced in this country, consolidating Antwerp as a key node in the sustainable energy transition.” In this context, the six Andalusian companies participating in this mission organized by Andalucía Trade come from Huelva (Gabitel Soluciones Técnicas and Realza Ingenieros) and Seville (Clan Tecnológica, The Lean Hydrogen Company, H2B2 Electrolysis Technologies and Ghenova). This action organized by the Agency may be co-financed with funds from the European Union, charged to the Andalusian ERDF Operational Program 2021-2027, with a community contribution of 85%, or any other European Program likely to co-finance this action. According to data from Andalucía Trade, EU Hydrogen Week brings together industry leaders, policy makers, researchers and end users interested in the role of hydrogen in the energy transition in Brussels. READ the latest news shaping the hydrogen market at Andalucía Trade organizes a “trade mission” to the ‘European Hydrogen Week’ in Belgium with six Andalusian companies, Hydrogen Europe and GH2 India sign MoU at EUH2Week At the European Hydrogen Week, where India is the exclusive partner country, Hydrogen Europe and the Green Hydrogen Association (GH2 India) signed a Memorandum of... European Hydrogen Week 2024 concludes Hydrogen Europe offers its recognition and gratitude to all exhibitors, sponsors, speakers, supporters, and visitors who have made the 2024 European Hydrogen Week one to remember... SINTEF at Hydrogen Week 2024: From research to market deployment Hydrogen has the potential to contribute to significant reductions in greenhouse gases from a variety of industries and processes, such as ammonia and...The West High girls soccer team is in a tough period of their campaign heading towards the end of the calendar year. The Wolf Pack started the winter red-hot and on a three-game win streak. However, their last victory, 4-0 over McNair, was on Dec. 2 and they haven’t been able to sniff the win column since. Their three ties and three defeats in the last six games have the Pack sitting on a 3-3-3 record with just one game remaining before the start of league play. Preparing to compete in the always tough and talent-packed Tri-City Athletic League (TCAL), West head coach Scott Behnam is still trying to figure out his optimal setup. Last time out, the Pack traveled to the Bay Area where they fell 3-1 to Valley Christian in San Jose on Saturday. Grace Morton scored twice, and Khloe Rivera added another for the hosts while senior Alyssa Boulware grabbed the consolation for West. A young and promising team, the Wolf Pack has one more non-league game left at Monterey Trail on Friday. Then it’s on to TCAL with Lincoln set to visit Steve Lopez Stadium on Jan. 8. Contact Arion Armeniakos at aarmeniakos@tracypress.com , or call 209-830-4229.
Daryl Bohac, former adjutant general for Nebraska, takes the podium with Gov. Jim Pillen, right, after being appointed director of the Nebraska State Historical Society. Nov. 21, 2024. (Zach Wendling/Nebraska Examiner) LINCOLN — Gov. Jim Pillen has called upon Daryl Bohac to direct the embattled Nebraska State Historical Society, drawing Bohac back into public service after he retired 18 months ago from leading the Nebraska National Guard. Pillen said the decision to recruit and redeploy Bohac to fill a post that oversees collection, preservation and sharing of Nebraska history was based on his view of leadership. “When you spend 45 years of your life in public service, when you’re the adjutant general of the Nebraska Air and Army National Guard, you develop extraordinary leadership characteristics and qualities,” he said of the Nebraska native. Pillen said he needed someone to steer the 146-year-old historical agency he said had veered “off the tracks.” Renamed History Nebraska by the previous director, the agency has been scrutinized and restructured . It recently became part of the governor’s cabinet following the arrest two years ago of the former executive director, who faces theft charges for allegedly improperly handling a private donation to the state agency. Bohac will oversee more than 60 full-time employees, and start with a $175,000 salary. Questioned about Bohac’s qualifications for the history-centric job, Pillen cited his track record in creating a “culture of team.” During the past two years, turnover at the society was 22% and 31%, respectively, among the highest of state agencies, according to state personnel figures. More than once, Pillen mentioned Bohac’s work with the Nebraska National Guard Museum in Seward, which preserves state militia history and educates about the guard’s role during peace and war. Introduced in his new role at a Thursday news conference, Bohac said he had received a phone call from someone outside of the Governor’s Office inquiring about his interest in taking over the agency, which also publishes a quarterly magazine and operates a state history museum in Lincoln and six other historic sites across the state. He said he talked to his wife and others and felt it was a “good fit — perhaps a good opportunity in that I could bring some leadership values to a complex organization.” He said the past 18 months of retirement had been good for him and his family. “But it’s time to go back to work for the people of Nebraska.” Among top priorities, Bohac said, is improving financial accountability. He referred to the past executive director. Former director Trevor Jones is facing felony charges for allegedly misappropriating a private donation. He resigned in 2022, after serving six years as the top administrator, saying he planned to do some traveling . Shortly after Jones resigned, he was charged with theft by deception in connection with diverting two donations from a foundation that had been intended to over anticipated agency revenue losses due to COVID-19. He instead deposited the funds in a foundation he had set up. Jones recently asked the court to dismiss the felony charge, saying he has been denied his right to a speedy trial. A hearing on the motion is scheduled for Tuesday. Pillen also pointed to the past. “It takes a lifetime of having a culture and it got tore down in a few simple years and it’s gonna take a lot of work to rebuild it to what Nebraskans expect.” The governor said he expects Bohac to lessen the society’s reliance on taxpayer dollars and to build active public and private partnerships. “It’s a $9 million a year budget but it doesn’t necessarily have to stand on the backs of taxpayers,” Pillen said. Bohac said he is excited to dive into his new mission — noting what he described as one of the first decisions presented to him in 2013 when he became the state’s adjutant general. It had to do with relocation of the military museum from the old Nebraska State Fairgrounds. He said the operations model relied on a combination of private, state and federal funding, a mix he plans to build upon at the state historical society. Other priorities in his new post, Bohac told reporters, include rebuilding core history museum exhibits to create a more alluring place for tourists and Nebraskans. He also wants to improve public access to archives. Bohac’s hire follows the passage earlier this year of Legislative Bill 1169, which made the historical society a code agency and part of the governor’s cabinet. That shift from independence status, and governance by a citizen Board of Trustees, worried many society employees who feared politics might enter into decisions about subject matter in museum displays, research projects and magazine articles. State lawmakers who supported LB 1169 said it should increase financial oversight and restore trust in the agency. Others feared potential impact. He has managed to adeptly thread the needle of keeping focused on mission and setting aside politics. – State Sen. Danielle Conrad of Lincoln State Sen. Danielle Conrad of Lincoln put forth an amendment intended to protect the academic freedom of choosing museum displays and public outreach. Thursday, upon hearing of Bohac’s appointment, Conrad she welcomed the “sound” choice. She sees Bohac as an “adept leader” and a “nonpolitical person.” “He has managed to adeptly thread the needle of keeping focused on mission and setting aside politics,” she said. Conrad, a Democrat, said she believes Bohac will be supported across the political spectrum to “stabilize the important work of this agency which has been mired in controversy for far too long.” Founded in 1878 by people who saw a need to record stories of both the state’s indigenous and immigrant populations, the historical society was designated a state institution and began receiving funds from the Legislature in 1883. In July, Pillen appointed Cindy Drake to be interim executive director. She had been at odds with the policies of the former director, Jones, and was dismissed after 45 years of serving as chief librarian at the society. Drake and Pillen moved swiftly to make changes at the agency, restoring the name to the Nebraska State Historical Society, rescinding a Jones’ decision to rebrand as “History Nebraska” in 2018. Employees also were reassigned. Public visiting hours were to be added at the society’s research room. A diversity council established by Jones was disbanded. During the media event Thursday, Bohac said he was eager to jump into his new job. As adjutant general, Maj. Gen. Bohac was responsible for programs affecting more than 4,500 Army and Air National Guard personnel. He oversaw the Nebraska Emergency Management Agency and served as the state’s official channel of communication with the National Guard Bureau to the Departments of the Army and Air Force. Said Pillen: “The hardcore reality is Daryl and I see a lot of things alike. One is how important leadership is, how important culture is.” SUBSCRIBE: GET THE MORNING HEADLINES DELIVERED TO YOUR INBOXNonePHOENIX, Nov. 25, 2024 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) -- Leslie’s, Inc. (“Leslie’s”, “we”, “our”, “its”, or “Company”; NASDAQ: LESL), the largest and most trusted direct-to-consumer brand in the U.S. pool and spa care industry, today announced its financial results for the fourth quarter and fiscal 2024. Jason McDonell, Chief Executive Officer, said, “Our fourth quarter results were in line with our revised expectations on the top-line, and we saw strong performance in our Pro segment with some continued softness in store traffic and larger-ticket and discretionary categories. Profitability was affected by deleverage from the sales decline and a one-time contract item, though we have remained disciplined on SG&A expenses.” McDonell added, “While we continue to operate in a dynamic environment, which has been felt acutely across the pool industry for the last two years, I see a bright future and compelling opportunities for Leslie’s. Since joining Leslie’s in September, I’ve been in the market talking with customers, vendors, and associates and it’s clear that Leslie’s is a trusted brand with a rich legacy and a strong market leadership position. I see meaningful opportunities to enhance these attributes and build on our competitive advantages by putting the customer at the center of everything we do. With the customer as our north star, we are developing and beginning to execute on the strategy and initiatives to drive long-term profitable growth. I look forward to detailing our strategic roadmap in the coming quarters and thank all of our stakeholders for their support as we build a stronger future together.” Fourth Quarter Highlights Fiscal 2024 Highlights Balance Sheet and Cash Flow Highlights First Quarter Fiscal 2025 Outlook The Company expects the following for the first quarter of fiscal 2025: *Note: A reconciliation of non-GAAP guidance measures to corresponding GAAP measures is not available on a forward-looking basis without unreasonable effort due to the uncertainty of expenses that may be incurred in the future, although it is important to note that these factors could be material to our results computed in accordance with GAAP. Conference Call Details A conference call to discuss the Company’s financial results for the fourth quarter and fiscal 2024 is scheduled for today, Monday, November 25, 2024 at 4:30 p.m. Eastern Time. Investors and analysts interested in participating in the call are invited to dial 877-407-0784 (international callers please dial 1-201-689-8560) approximately 10 minutes prior to the start of the call. A live audio webcast of the conference call will be available online at https://ir.lesliespool.com/ . A recorded replay of the conference call will be available within approximately three hours of the conclusion of the call and can be accessed online at https://ir.lesliespool.com/ for 90 days. About Leslie’s Founded in 1963, Leslie’s is the largest and most trusted direct-to-consumer brand in the U.S. pool and spa care industry. The Company serves the aftermarket needs of residential and professional consumers with an extensive and largely exclusive assortment of essential pool and spa care products. The Company operates an integrated ecosystem of over 1,000 physical locations and a robust digital platform, enabling consumers to engage with Leslie’s whenever, wherever, and however they prefer to shop. Its dedicated team of associates, pool and spa care experts, and experienced service technicians are passionate about empowering Leslie’s consumers with the knowledge, products, and solutions necessary to confidently maintain and enjoy their pools and spas. Use of Non-GAAP Financial Measures and Other Operating Measures In addition to reporting financial results in accordance with accounting principles generally accepted in the United States (“GAAP”), we use certain non-GAAP financial measures and other operating measures, including comparable sales growth, Adjusted EBITDA, Adjusted net income (loss), and Adjusted diluted earnings per share, to evaluate the effectiveness of our business strategies, to make budgeting decisions, and to compare our performance against that of other peer companies using similar measures. These non-GAAP financial measures and other operating measures should not be considered in isolation or as substitutes for our results as reported under GAAP. In addition, these non-GAAP financial measures and other operating measures are not calculated in the same manner by all companies, and accordingly, are not necessarily comparable to similarly titled measures of other companies and may not be appropriate measures for performance relative to other companies. Comparable Sales Growth We measure comparable sales growth as the increase or decrease in sales recorded by the comparable base in any reporting period, compared to sales recorded by the comparable base in the prior reporting period. The comparable base includes sales through our locations and through our e-commerce websites and third-party marketplaces. Comparable sales growth is a key measure used by management and our board of directors to assess our financial performance. Adjusted EBITDA Adjusted EBITDA is defined as earnings before interest (including amortization of debt issuance costs), taxes, depreciation and amortization, management fees, equity-based compensation expense, loss (gain) on debt extinguishment, loss (gain) on asset and contract dispositions, executive transition costs, severance, costs related to equity offerings, strategic project costs, merger and acquisition costs, and other non-recurring, non-cash or discrete items. Adjusted EBITDA is a key measure used by management and our board of directors to assess our financial performance. Adjusted EBITDA is also frequently used by analysts, investors, and other interested parties to evaluate companies in our industry, when considered alongside other GAAP measures. We use Adjusted EBITDA to supplement GAAP measures of performance to evaluate the effectiveness of our business strategies, to make budgeting decisions, and to compare our performance against that of other companies using similar measures. Adjusted EBITDA is not a recognized measure of financial performance under GAAP but is used by some investors to determine a company’s ability to service or incur indebtedness. Adjusted EBITDA is not calculated in the same manner by all companies, and accordingly, is not necessarily comparable to similarly titled measures of other companies and may not be an appropriate measure for performance relative to other companies. Adjusted EBITDA should not be construed as an indicator of a company’s operating performance in isolation from, or as a substitute for, net income (loss), cash flows from operations or cash flow data, all of which are prepared in accordance with GAAP. We have presented Adjusted EBITDA solely as supplemental disclosure because we believe it allows for a more complete analysis of results of operations. Adjusted EBITDA is not intended to represent, and should not be considered more meaningful than, or as an alternative to, measures of operating performance as determined in accordance with GAAP. In the future, we may incur expenses or charges such as those added back to calculate Adjusted EBITDA. Our presentation of Adjusted EBITDA should not be construed as an inference that our future results will be unaffected by these items. Adjusted Net Income (Loss) and Adjusted Diluted Earnings per Share Adjusted net income (loss) and Adjusted diluted earnings per share are additional key measures used by management and our board of directors to assess our financial performance. Adjusted net income (loss) and Adjusted diluted earnings per share are also frequently used by analysts, investors, and other interested parties to evaluate companies in our industry, when considered alongside other GAAP measures. Adjusted net income (loss) is defined as net income (loss) adjusted to exclude management fees, equity-based compensation expense, loss (gain) on debt extinguishment, loss (gain) on asset and contract dispositions, executive transition costs, severance, costs related to equity offerings, strategic project costs, merger and acquisition costs, and other non-recurring, non-cash, or discrete items. Adjusted diluted earnings per share is defined as Adjusted net income (loss) divided by the diluted weighted average number of common shares outstanding. Forward-Looking Statements This press release contains forward-looking statements about us and our industry that involve substantial risks and uncertainties. All statements other than statements of historical fact contained in this press release, including statements regarding our future results of operations or financial condition, business strategy, value proposition, legal proceedings, competitive advantages, market size, growth opportunities, industry expectations, and plans and objectives of management for future operations, are forward-looking statements. In some cases, you can identify forward-looking statements because they contain words such as “anticipate,” “believe,” “contemplate,” “continue,” “could,” “estimate,” “expect,” “intend,” “may,” “plan,” “potential,” “predict,” “project,” “should,” “target,” “will,” or “would,” or the negative of these words or other similar terms or expressions. Our actual results or outcomes could differ materially from those indicated in these forward-looking statements for a variety of reasons, including, among others: You should not rely on forward-looking statements as predictions of future events. We have based the forward-looking statements contained in this press release primarily on our current expectations and projections about future events and trends that we believe may affect our business, financial condition, and operating results. The outcome of the events described in these forward-looking statements is subject to risks, uncertainties, and other factors described in Part I, Item 1A, “Risk Factors” in our Annual Report on Form 10-K for the year ended September 28, 2024 and in our other filings with the SEC. Moreover, we operate in a very competitive and rapidly changing environment. New risks and uncertainties emerge from time-to-time, and it is not possible for us to predict all risks and uncertainties that could have an impact on the forward-looking statements contained in this press release. The results, events, and circumstances reflected in the forward-looking statements may not be achieved or occur, and actual results or outcomes could differ materially from those described in the forward-looking statements. In addition, statements that “we believe” and similar statements reflect our beliefs and opinions on the relevant subject. These statements are based on information available to us as of the date of this press release, and while we believe that information provides a reasonable basis for these statements, that information may be limited or incomplete. Our statements should not be read to indicate that we have conducted an exhaustive inquiry into, or review of, all relevant information. These statements are inherently uncertain, and investors are cautioned not to unduly rely on these statements. The forward-looking statements made in this press release are based on events or circumstances as of the date on which the statements are made. We undertake no obligation to update any forward-looking statements made in this press release to reflect events or circumstances after the date of this press release or to reflect new information, changed expectations, the occurrence of unanticipated events or otherwise, except as required by law. We may not actually achieve the plans, intentions, outcomes or expectations disclosed in our forward-looking statements, and you should not place undue reliance on our forward-looking statements. Our forward-looking statements do not reflect the potential impact of any future acquisitions, mergers, dispositions, joint ventures, or investments. Contact Matthew Skelly Vice President, Investor Relations Leslie’s, Inc. investorrelations@lesl.com (1) See section titled “GAAP to Non-GAAP Reconciliation.” (1) Includes depreciation related to our distribution centers and store locations, which is reported in cost of merchandise and services sold and SG&A in our condensed consolidated statements of operations. (2) Represents charges related to equity-based compensation and our related payroll tax expense, which are reported in SG&A in our condensed consolidated statements of operations. (3) Represents non-recurring costs, such as third-party consulting costs related to first-generation technology initiatives, replacements of systems that have been no longer supported by our vendors, investment in and development of new products outside of the course of continuing operations, or other discrete strategic projects that are infrequent or unusual in nature and potentially distortive to continuing operations. These items are reported in SG&A in our condensed consolidated statements of operations. (4) Includes certain senior executive transition costs and severance associated with completed corporate restructuring activities across the organization, losses (gains) on asset dispositions, merger and acquisition costs, and other non-recurring, non-cash, or discrete items as determined by management. Amounts are reported in SG&A in our condensed consolidated statements of operations. (5) Represents a change in valuation allowance for deferred taxes that management does not believe are indicative of our ongoing operations. This item is reported in income tax expense in our consolidated statements of operations and we note they may reoccur in the future. (6) Represents the tax effect of the total adjustments based on our combined U.S. federal and state statutory tax rates. Amounts are reported in income tax expense (benefit) in our condensed consolidated statements of operations.