Giants release quarterback Daniel Jones just days after benching him EAST RUTHERFORD, N.J. (AP) — The Daniel Jones era in New York is over. The Giants quarterback was granted his release by the team just days after the franchise said it was benching him in favor of third-stringer Tommy DeVito. New York president John Mara said Jones approached the team about releasing him and the club obliged. Mara added he was “disappointed” at the quick dissolution of a once-promising relationship between Jones and the team. Giants coach Brian Daboll benched Jones in favor of DeVito following a loss to the Panthers in Germany that dropped New York's record to 2-8. Week 16 game between Denver Broncos and Los Angeles Chargers flexed to Thursday night spot The Los Angeles Chargers have played their way into another prime time appearance. Justin Herbert and company have had their Dec. 22 game against the Denver Broncos flexed to Thursday night, Dec. 19. Friday’s announcement makes this the first time a game has been flexed to the Thursday night spot. The league amended its policy last season where Thursday night games in Weeks 13 through 17 could be flexed with at least 28 days notice prior to the game. The matchup of AFC West division rivals bumps the game between the Cleveland Browns and Cincinnati Bengals to Sunday afternoon. NBA memo to players urges increased vigilance regarding home security following break-ins MIAMI (AP) — The NBA is urging its players to take additional precautions to secure their homes following reports of recent high-profile burglaries of dwellings owned by Milwaukee Bucks forward Bobby Portis and Kansas City Chiefs teammates Patrick Mahomes and Travis Kelce. In a memo sent to team officials, a copy of which was obtained by The Associated Press, the NBA revealed that the FBI has connected some burglaries to “transnational South American Theft Groups” that are “reportedly well-organized, sophisticated rings that incorporate advanced techniques and technologies, including pre-surveillance, drones, and signal jamming devices.” Noodles and wine are the secret ingredients for a strange new twist in China's doping saga Blame it on the noodles. That's what one Chinese official suggested when anti-doping leaders were looking for answers for the doping scandal that cast a shadow over this year's Olympic swim meet. Earlier this year, reports that 23 Chinese swimmers had tested positive for a banned heart medication emerged. None were sanctioned because Chinese authorities determined the swimmers were contaminated by traces of the drug spread about a hotel kitchen. In a strange twist, the leader of China's anti-doping agency suggested this case could have been similar to one in which criminals were responsible for tainting noodles that were later eaten by another Chinese athlete who also tested positive for the drug. Conor McGregor must pay woman $250K in sexual assault case, civil jury rules LONDON (AP) — A civil jury in Ireland has found that mixed martial arts fighter Conor McGregor sexually assaulted a woman in a hotel penthouse after a night of heavy partying. The Dublin jury awarded the woman more than $250,000 for her lawsuit that claimed McGregor “brutally raped and battered” her on Dec. 9, 2018. The lawsuit says the assault left her heavily bruised and suffering from post-traumatic stress disorder. McGregor testified he never forced her to do anything and that the woman had fabricated her allegations after the two had consensual sex. The jury found for the woman on Friday. Nick Chubb plows through heavy snow for 2-yard TD, giving Browns 24-19 win over Steelers CLEVELAND (AP) — Nick Chubb ran for a 2-yard touchdown in heavy snow with 57 seconds left, and the Cleveland Browns stunned division rival Pittsburgh 24-19, ending the Steelers’ five-game winning streak. The Browns had blown a 12-point lead in the fourth quarter and were down 19-18 before getting the ball back with 3:22 remaining after Pittsburgh punter Corliss Waitman shanked a 16-yarder. With snow piling up and covering the yard lines on the field, Cleveland’s Jameis Winston completed a third-down pass to Jerry Jeudy to the Pittsburgh 9. Two plays later, Chubb barreled into the end zone. The AFC North-leading Steelers fell to 8-3 while the Browns are 3-8. Shohei Ohtani in early stages of rehab from shoulder surgery and hopes to be ready for opening day LOS ANGELES (AP) — Shohei Ohtani is in the early stages of rehabilitation from left shoulder surgery after the World Series. The Los Angeles Dodgers superstar says the goal is for him to be ready to pitch and hit by opening day next March, but he's going to be conservative in his approach and make sure he's totally healthy first. Ohtani won his third MVP award Thursday, and first in the National League. He was in Los Angeles with his wife and beloved dog, Decoy, although because of his surgery four days after the Dodgers' World Series victory over the New York Yankees, the family hasn't been able to celebrate. Caitlin Clark to join Cincinnati bid for 16th National Women's Soccer League team WNBA star Caitlin Clark has joined Cincinnati’s bid for an expansion National Women’s Soccer League team. Major League Soccer franchise FC Cincinnati is heading the group vying to bring a women’s pro team to the city. The club issued a statement confirming Clark had joined the bid group. NWSL Commissioner Jessica Berman has said the league plans to announce the league’s 16th team by the end of the year. The league's 15th team will begin play in 2026 in Boston. In a 'Final Four-type weekend,' two top-6 clashes put women's college basketball focus on West Coast LOS ANGELES (AP) — Two games featuring four powerhouse teams has put the focus in women's college basketball on the West Coast this weekend. JuJu Watkins and No. 3 Southern California host Hannah Hidalgo and No. 6 Notre Dame on Saturday. Top-ranked South Carolina visits Lauren Betts and fifth-ranked UCLA on Sunday. Both games are nationally televised and the arenas are expected to be packed. WNBA scouts will be on hand to check out some of the nation's top talent. Two teams will come away with their first losses of the season. USC coach Lindsay Gottlieb calls it “a Final Four-type weekend.” A documentary featuring Watkins will air on NBC ahead of USC's game, which leads into the Army-Notre Dame football game. Shohei Ohtani wins third MVP award, first in NL. Aaron Judge earns second AL honor in 3 seasons NEW YORK (AP) — Shohei Ohtani won his third Most Valuable Player Award and first in the National League, and Aaron Judge earned his second American League honor on Thursday. Ohtani was a unanimous MVP for the third time, receiving all 30 first-place votes and 420 points in voting by the Baseball Writers’ Association of America. New York Mets shortstop Francisco Lindor was second with 263 points and Arizona second baseman Ketel Marte third with 229. Judge was a unanimous pick for the first time. Kansas City shortstop Bobby Witt Jr. got all 30 second-place votes for 270 points, and Yankees outfielder Juan Soto was third with 21 third-place votes and 229 points.Photo shows the book ‘Iban Bejalai’, written by Dr Peter M. Kedit. THIS week, I have taken the liberty to depart from the nearly formulaic manner in which I have previously critiqued contemporary issues, social and economic, and chosen instead to analyse some of the key ideas and topics of interest that have surfaced from a book entitled ‘Iban Bejalai’ that was recently published by Unimas and written by Dr Peter M. Kedit. The concept of Iban ‘bejalai’, traditionally associated with the Iban people’s migratory lifestyle and their connection to nature, has evolved significantly as the community adapts to the complexities of contemporary life, according to Kedit. Indeed, as he rightly describes at the outset, the notion of ‘bejalai’ goes back to the early longhouse days when it represented a rite of passage for young Ibans, involving travels that strengthened cultural identity while simultaneously promoting commercial and social ties. As a student of social anthropology, I should be pardoned for applying a sociological viewpoint to assess the vast corpus of anthropological work in the book by renowned anthropologist Kedit, choosing just that which I feel is suitable and relevant to Putman’s sociological framework vis-à-vis the Iban contemporary society. Essential elements The essential elements of ‘bejalai’, culture, tradition, and commercial endeavours are worth mentioning because they continue to define the adventure story, driven by monetary gain and identity advancement, though not without being influenced by changes and outside forces over time. However, ‘bejalai’ is neither a ritual nor a process that is absolute in its entirety. Times have changed, so have the character and contextual relevance of ‘bejalai’. The core of ‘bejalai’ has changed as a result of the socio-economic context being reshaped by globalisation and urbanisation, as Kedit admits. Under the changing circumstances, the Ibans have to cope with the need to navigate their identity in a world that is becoming more interconnected because it represents a dual cultural space where traditional customs and contemporary influences converge. The challenges of balancing two distinct cultural environments are aptly reflected in the Iban ‘bejalai’ long-distance migration habit. They have a history of seasonal migration, moving to neighbouring cities or countries in search of work opportunities from their rural settlements. In addition to indicating a need for financial stability, this pattern demonstrates the profound cultural interaction that occurs when people are torn between two different cultures. It might be challenging for individuals to maintain their cultural identity, while acclimating to their new surroundings since they frequently encounter contradictory societal norms, attitudes, and expectations in metropolitan environments. Dual cultural domain The passage that has been bequeathed by the ‘bejalai’ tradition is not without its undulating and sometimes repressive features. I share the view of Kedit that the dual cultural domain presents opportunities as well as difficulties for the Iban ‘bejalai’ in that on the one hand, migrants might encounter diverse lifestyles and perspectives, which can foster social mobility and improve their own cultural understanding. On the other, assimilation pressure may also weaken community ties and cultural practices, which can lead to an identity crisis for younger generations. Finding a balance between preserving their cultural heritage and assimilating into a rapidly changing socioeconomic environment is challenging. Given the shifting dynamics within the Iban social and cultural milieu, however, Kedit’s proposal to settle this dispute and eventually recreate themselves in a world that is becoming more networked seemed audacious and urban. For the Ibans, who must respect and uphold their tradition while accepting modernity, the study by Kedit indicates an open and unmapped social path. Kedit uses both qualitative and quantitative data from a mixed research style to support his claims and conclusions. When traversing numerous cultural contexts, people must carefully balance honouring their ancestors’ customs with adapting to the shifting social dynamics of modern life. This is one of the troubling concerns that have emerged from Kedit’s book. As they try to maintain the rich traditions of their culture while also adapting to the expectations of a modern society that values independence and material prosperity, the Ibans find themselves walking a tightrope. Ancestral customs’ expectations – such as social bonds, shared duties, and respect for the natural world – can occasionally conflict with the reality of urban life, where individual success and self-improvement are frequently praised. Navigating two cultures is made more difficult by preconceptions and external opinions that may marginalise local practices. For the Ibans, spreading knowledge and appreciation requires teaching people about the significance of bejalai, whether via storytelling, traditional celebrations, or educational initiatives. Transcendental journey By sharing the meanings embedded in their traditions and their experiences, they may take back control of their narratives and contribute to a broader discussion on cultural diversity and resilience. Bejalai’s journey ultimately transcends national boundaries and symbolises a multifaceted fabric of identity that is both firmly rooted in the wisdom of past generations and changes throughout time. The Christian values of promoting peace and helping others strike a strong chord with the cultural tradition of many young Ibans as they set out on their ‘bejalai’. Today’s ‘bejalai’ experience, which frequently includes travel and self-discovery, adds a spiritual component where people want to exhibit Christ-like qualities. This mixture enhances the ‘bejalai’ experience and makes them more eager to form cordial bonds within their communities. Furthermore, conversations concerning identity and cultural preservation have been sparked by the ‘bejalai’ framework’s acceptance of Christian ideals. While some elders worry that their customs may be disappearing, others welcome the chance to give their rites fresh significance. This continuous discussion illustrates the dynamic interaction between upholding cultural traditions and accepting Christian moral principles. Christianity and identity of modern Dayak Christianity has significantly shaped the psyche and identity of the modern Dayak. The religious transformation has led to a shift in communal values, emphasising notions of individual morality and community cohesion through church participation. This change is evident in how many Dayaks now prioritise education and personal development, viewing these as essential components of their new identity as Christians. However, this transformation is not without challenges; the tension between traditional Dayak beliefs and the tenets of Christianity sometimes leads to generational divides within families and communities. The elders may hold on to ancestral practices, while younger generations increasingly gravitate towards a Christian identity, which they perceive as more aligned with modern values and opportunities. And as people go through their lives with a sense of purpose derived from both tradition and religion, the incorporation of Christian principles into ‘bejalai’ reveals a significant shift in the community’s spiritual environment. Additionally, navigating two different cultural areas promotes a conversation between tradition and modernity within the Iban community. They are not only leaving their origins behind when they set out on their ‘bejalai’, whether it is through actual or virtual trips; rather, they are enhancing their cultural fabric. By combining the old with the new, the Ibans are able to reinvent themselves in a way that respects their culture and seizes the potential of the modern world. The Iban people’s inventiveness, tenacity, and dedication to preserving their traditional identity in the face of contemporary difficulties and changes are so powerfully demonstrated by the idea of ‘bejalai’. * Toman Mamora is ‘Tokoh Media Sarawak 2022’, recipient of Shell Journalism Gold Award (1996) and AZAM Best Writer Gold Award (1998). He remains true to his decades-long passion for critical writing as he seeks to gain insight into some untold stories of societal value.
Sophie Hediger, a member of Switzerland's snowboard cross team at the 2022 Beijing Winter Olympics, has died following an avalanche at a mountain resort, the country's skiing federation said on Tuesday. The incident occurred on Monday at the Arosa resort in Switzerland. Hediger, 26, competed at the Beijing Games in the women’s snowboard cross and the mixed team version of the same event. Hediger achieved her first two World Cup podium finishes in the 2023-24 season. Her best result was a second place in St. Moritz in January. “We are shocked and our thoughts are with Sophie’s family, to whom we offer our deepest condolences,” said Swiss-Ski CEO Walter Reusser in a statement. “(She lost her life) tragically, brutally and far too soon.” AP sports: https://apnews.com/sportsCore DAO vs Lightchain AI–Evaluating Their Impact on the DeFi Ecosystem( MENAFN - KNN India) New Delhi, Dec 14 (KNN) In a significant diplomatic engagement, India and the United Arab Emirates (UAE) convened the 15th India-UAE Joint Commission Meeting in New Delhi, focusing on deepening bilateral relations across multiple strategic sectors. External Affairs Minister S Jaishankar and UAE Foreign Minister sheikh Abdullah bin Zayed Al Nahyan co-chaired the discussions, which centered on expanding cooperation in trade, energy, technology, and infrastructure. The meeting highlighted the robust economic ties between the two nations, with bilateral trade reaching $85 billion since the implementation of the Comprehensive Economic Partnership Agreement (CEPA) in May 2022. Jaishankar described the India-UAE relationship as a 'model' partnership, emphasising its increasingly diversified and deep economic and commercial connections. Key discussions encompassed the ambitious India-Middle East-Europe Economic Corridor (IMEEC), a landmark initiative aimed at enhancing maritime connectivity and trade. The corridor, conceptualised during the G20 Summit in Delhi last September, involves India, Saudi Arabia, the United States, the European Union, and other partners, with the goal of creating integrated transportation networks across Asia, the Middle East, and Europe. The foreign ministers explored collaborative opportunities in emerging technologies, including digital infrastructure, Central Bank Digital Currencies, and instant payment systems. They also delved into strategic areas such as defence, nuclear energy, polar research, critical minerals, and renewable energy. The meeting notably included discussions on the ongoing situation in Gaza and developments in Syria. Energy cooperation emerged as a prominent theme, with both sides expressing interest in long-term supply agreements, upstream and downstream project collaborations, and mutual investments in strategic reserves. The discussions also covered expansion into new partnership domains like green hydrogen and critical minerals. The meeting further celebrated institutional collaborations, including the IIT-Delhi Abu Dhabi campus and ongoing work to establish overseas campuses of the Indian Institute of Management, Ahmedabad, and the Indian Institute of Foreign Trade in Dubai. As a testament to the strengthening bilateral relations, the two countries welcomed the signing and implementation of a bilateral investment treaty, signaling continued commitment to deepening economic and strategic ties. (KNN Bureau) MENAFN14122024000155011030ID1108993094 Legal Disclaimer: MENAFN provides the information “as is” without warranty of any kind. We do not accept any responsibility or liability for the accuracy, content, images, videos, licenses, completeness, legality, or reliability of the information contained in this article. If you have any complaints or copyright issues related to this article, kindly contact the provider above.
STUART, Fla. , Dec. 24, 2024 /PRNewswire/ -- Health In Tech, an Insurtech platform company backed by third-party AI technology, today announced the closing of its initial public offering of 2,300,000 shares of its Class A common stock at a public offering price of $4.00 per share, for gross proceeds of $9,200,000 , before deducting underwriting discounts, commissions, and estimated offering expenses. The Company has granted the underwriter an option, exercisable within 30 days from the date of the final prospectus, to purchase an additional 345,000 shares of Class A common stock from Health In Tech at the initial public offering price, less underwriting discounts and commissions. Assuming such option is fully exercised, the Company may raise a total of approximately US$10,580,000 in gross proceeds from the Offering Health In Tech intends to use the net proceeds from the offering for system enhancements, expansion of service offerings, sales and distribution channels, talent development and retention, working capital, and other general corporate purposes. American Trust Investment Services, Inc. acted as the sole book-running manager for the offering. A registration statement on Form S-1 (File No. 333-281853) relating to the shares was filed with the Securities and Exchange Commission and became effective on December 19, 2024 . This offering was made only by means of a prospectus, forming part of the effective registration statement. A copy of the prospectus relating to the offering can be obtained when available, by contacting American Trust Investment Services, Inc., 230 W. Monroe Street , Suite 300, Chicago, IL 60606, or via E-Mail at ECM@amtruinvest.com. This press release shall not constitute an offer to sell or the solicitation of an offer to buy any securities, nor shall there be any sale of any securities in any state or jurisdiction in which such offer, solicitation or sale would be unlawful prior to registration or qualification under the securities laws of any such state or jurisdiction. About Health In Tech Health in Tech ("HIT") is an Insurtech platform company backed by third-party AI technology. We offer a dynamic marketplace designed to create customized healthcare plan solutions while streamlining processes through vertical integration, process simplification, and automation. By eliminating friction and complexities, HIT enhances value propositions for employers and optimizes underwriting, sales, and service workflows for Managing General Underwriters (MGUs), insurance carriers, licensed brokers, and Third-Party Administrators (TPAs). Learn more at healthintech.com . Forward-Looking Statements Regarding Health In Tech Certain statements in this press release are forward-looking statements for purposes of the safe harbor provisions under the U.S. Private Securities Litigation Reform Act of 1995. Forward-looking statements may include estimates or expectations about Health In Tech's possible or assumed operational results, financial condition, business strategies and plans, market opportunities, competitive position, industry environment, and potential growth opportunities. In some cases, forward-looking statements can be identified by terms such as "may," "will," "should," "design," "target," "aim," "hope," "expect," "could," "intend," "plan," "anticipate," "estimate," "believe," "continue," "predict," "project," "potential," "goal," or other words that convey the uncertainty of future events or outcomes. These statements relate to future events or to Health In Tech's future financial performance, and involve known and unknown risks, uncertainties and other factors that may cause Health In Tech's actual results, levels of activity, performance, or achievements to be different from any future results, levels of activity, performance or achievements expressed or implied by these forward-looking statements. You should not place undue reliance on forward-looking statements because they involve known and unknown risks, uncertainties and other factors which are, in some cases, beyond Health In Tech's control and which could, and likely will, affect actual results, levels of activity, performance or achievements. Any forward-looking statement reflects Health In Tech's current views with respect to future events and is subject to these and other risks, uncertainties and assumptions relating to Health In Tech's operations, results of operations, growth strategy and liquidity. Investor Contact Investor Relations: ir@healthintech.com View original content to download multimedia: https://www.prnewswire.com/news-releases/health-in-tech-announces-closing-of-initial-public-offering-302338923.html SOURCE Health In Tech