Liverpool boss Arne Slot hailed “special” Mohamed Salah after seeing him fire the Premier League leaders to the brink of victory at Newcastle. The Reds ultimately left St James’ Park with only a point after Fabian Schar snatched a 3-3 draw at the end of a pulsating encounter, but Salah’s double – his 14th and 15th goals of the season – transformed a 2-1 deficit into a 3-2 lead before the Switzerland defender’s late intervention. The 32-year-old Egypt international’s future at Anfield remains a topic of debate with his current contract running down. Asked about Salah’s future, Slot said: “It’s difficult for me to predict the long-term future, but the only thing I can expect or predict is that he is in a very good place at the moment. Two goals and an assist for Mo tonight 👏 pic.twitter.com/tMXidgeA0P — Liverpool FC (@LFC) December 4, 2024 “He plays in a very good team that provides him with good opportunities and then he is able to do special things. “And what makes him for me even more special is that in the first hour or before we scored to make it 1-1, you thought, ‘He’s not playing his best game today’, and to then come up with a half-hour or 45 minutes – I don’t know how long it was – afterwards with an assist, two goals, having a shot on the bar, being a constant threat, that is something not many players can do if they’ve played the first hour like he did. “That is also what makes him special. If you just look at the goals, his finish is so clinical. He’s a special player, but that’s what we all know.” Salah did indeed endure a quiet opening 45 minutes by his standards and it was the Magpies who went in at the break a goal to the good after Alexander Isak’s stunning 35th-minute finish. Slot said: “The shot from Isak, I don’t even know if Caoimh (keeper Caoimhin Kelleher) saw that ball, as hard as it was.” Salah set up Curtis Jones to level five minutes into the second half and after Anthony Gordon has restored the hosts’ lead, levelled himself from substitute Trent Alexander-Arnold’s 68th-minute cross. He looked to have won it with a fine turn and finish – his ninth goal in seven league games – seven minutes from time, only for Schar to pounce from a tight angle in the 90th minute. Newcastle head coach Eddie Howe was delighted with the way his team took the game to the Reds four days after their disappointing 1-1 draw at Crystal Palace. Howe, who admitted his surprise that VAR official Stuart Attwell had not taken a dimmer view of a Virgil van Dijk shoulder barge on Gordon, said: “It’s mixed emotions. “Part of me feels we should have won it – a big part of me – but part of me is pleased we didn’t lose either because it was such a late goal for us. “Generally, I’m just pleased with the performance. There was much more attacking output, a much better feel about the team. “There was much better energy, and it was a really good performance against, for me, the best team we’ve played so far this season in the Premier League, so it was a big jump forward for us.”James Jones the Chicago Bears' clock management on their final play and decide whether Caleb Williams, Matt Eberflus (who was just fired) or other players are to blame. The Bears lost 23-20 to the Detroit Lions and dropped to 4-8. The Chicago Bears wasted no time to firing Matt Eberflus as head coach following a head-scratching loss to the Detroit Lions on Thanksgiving Day, and the moments after the game could explain why the move was made by the franchise. After rookie quarterback Caleb Williams was sacked with 30 seconds remaining in Lions territory, needing a field goal to force overtime, the clock ran down as the offense tried to line up and the ball remained unsnapped until several ticks were left. Williams heaved a pass to D.J. Moore, but it fell on the turf and the Lions won the game despite the Bears' second-half comeback efforts. CLICK HERE FOR MORE SPORTS COVERAGE ON FOXNEWS.COM Chicago Bears head coach Matt Eberflus looks on during a game between the Detroit Lions and the Chicago Bears on Thanksgiving Day in Detroit, Michigan USA, on Thursday, November 28, 2024. (Amy Lemus/NurPhoto via Getty Images) What made it head-scratching was the fact that Eberflus had one timeout remaining in his pocket, yet he never used it despite Williams clearly not moving fast enough to get the play going. After the game, ESPN reported that team president and CEO Kevin Warren hung around the locker room longer than normal. "We need to be better," Warren said to players. BEARS CEO ADMITS TO MISHANDLING MATT EBERFLUS' FIRING: ‘I’LL BE THE FIRST ONE TO RAISE MY HAND' But even more telling about Eberflus's future with the franchise was his post-game speech in the locker room, which was a "s--- show," according to one player, per ESPN. Eberflus began speaking to the team after the game, but he was cut off by star cornerback Jaylon Johnson, who laid into his fellow Bears. "There was frustration," Johnson told WSCR radio in Chicago on Monday. "There was words from myself that I expressed just from my frustration from losing. "Part of what I said after the game was I've been losing for five years. I feel like a high-level player like myself, after a certain point, losing games how we've been losing games, somebody has to express something. It was a spur-of-the-moment thing, and it went the way it went." Chicago Bears head coach Matt Eberflus on the sidelines during the second half against the Detroit Lions at Ford Field. (David Reginek-Imagn Images) Eberflus reportedly walked out of the room after speaking for just "seconds," according to ESPN. And the vibe was the room was categorized as "contentious." One player told ESPN that, while Eberflus' intentions were always in the right place, his message about fighting hard and coming up short was becoming repetitive. "You only want to hear it so much," Cole Kmet said. "Coach is going to say what he's going to say." In the end, Eberflus became the first Bears head coach in franchise history to be fired mid-season, and he did so with a 5-19 record in one-score games — the worst mark in NFL history with at least 20 games. That included the tipped Hail Mary against the Washington Commanders that landed in Noah Brown's hands, while Bears cornerback Tyrique Stevenson was taunting fans in the stands during the play. Eberflus' job status was talked about then, and the bad endings to games since ultimately led to a decision to move on from the Bears. Chicago Bears head coach Matt Eberflus talks to the media after an NFL football game against the Chicago Bears in Detroit, Thursday, Nov. 28, 2024. (AP Photo/Carlos Osorio) CLICK HERE TO GET THE FOX NEWS APP The Bears turned to Thomas Brown as the interim head coach for the remainder of the season. Follow Fox News Digital’s sports coverage on X , and subscribe to the Fox News Sports Huddle newsletter . Scott Thompson is a sports writer for Fox News Digital.
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“Not permitted under the law,” snapped Jay Powell. The scene was the Fed’s press conference. It was the day after Donald Trump’s resounding election victory. The reporter, seeking confirmation, followed up. “Not per-MIT-ted under the law!” repeated a visibly irritated Powell, slowly enunciating the word. Powell’s body language said he’s ready to battle Trump in the press. I recount this scene to give you a head start in identifying one of Trump’s next battles in his multi-year conflict with the Deep State. Starting in 2017, the Deep State tried to impeach Trump, undermine his policy goals, slow-walk his orders to the military, and ruin the 2020 economy with COVID lockdowns. Most controversially, it’s hard to argue that the Deep State didn’t inspire the mysterious shooter whose bullet grazed Trump’s ear at a fateful July 2024 rally in Butler, Pennsylvania. You, me, and the entire world are wondering, “What will they do next?” By “they,” I am not referring to a pre-planned conspiracy. There is no single evil mastermind running the Deep State – one who has anticipated every possible countermove. No, the Deep State is a faceless blob. It is a group of government agencies, media outlets, corporations, and people inside those organizations. They understand that Trump’s vision for America is disruptive to their preferred way of doing business. Rather than adapt to Trump’s priorities, they see it as a sacred duty to resist him. First Things First – Trump Will Inherit A Weak Biden Economy Let’s return to the role of Fed Chairman Jay Powell. Powell is trying to serve the American public as best he can, even if he’s blind to the Fed’s role in promoting wealth inequality and inflation. Powell’s policies have been too soft on asset owners in our overly financialized U.S. economy. The Fed’s asset-pumping policies have exacerbated the wealth gap. It eased policy far too much with trillions of dollars in money printing and its tightening in 2022 and 2023 has not been nearly so dramatic. The wealth gap, powered by the residual money printed in 2021 and 2022, has played a key role in resurrecting Trump’s campaign. Trump started from a small base of loyal family members and friends on January 6, 2021, rode a tidal wave of public discontent over rampant Biden inflation, and won the popular vote. The remarkable rebound in support for Trump over three years could not have happened if most Americans were happy with the status quo under Biden. We know where most of the American public stands. They are financially worn out and frustrated by the pain of cumulative inflation. Their confidence is low, but many are hopeful that Trump will turn things around quickly. However, turning around this economic ship will not be easy, nor will it be costless. The economy is like a large ship that’s been heading in a specific direction. Even if Trump steers it sharply in a different, more production-oriented direction, it will take time to see material results. Meanwhile, Biden’s advisors have for years been steering the economic ship in the direction of bloated government spending, government jobs, and malinvestment in green energy. I think it’s important to keep this in mind when thinking about Trump’s goals starting in 2025: There is a global imbalance between production and consumption, and it’s been growing for decades. I support Trump’s vision to reprioritize production in America. Our multi-decade trend toward over-consuming with too many government jobs and service jobs is unhealthy and unstable. We’ve done this while exporting bonds and stocks to foreign producers to fund this consumption. Bonds and stocks are securities with explicit or implicit promises to deliver streams of cash flow. Bonds are explicit, pre-defined streams of cash flow. Stocks are implicit promises of future cash flow in the form of dividends. Here’s why stocks are so volatile: It’s difficult – even for diligent professionals – to estimate how large and sustainable their dividends will be for decades into the future. In an all-too-common example, a company that goes bankrupt within a few years of an investor buying its stock rarely pays enough dividends for that investor to recoup his investment in that stock before it goes to zero. With that context established, I’ll say this: Achieving Trump’s vision to reprioritize production in America will involve pain for an economy with an unhealthy addiction to bubbly asset prices. There is no easy path to revitalizing American manufacturing. Compromises will be required either way. The fact is, the pain from restructuring a bloated federal government means the risk of a recession is high. And when recession risks rise, the Fed slashes rates and gold typically surges higher. Stay tuned to see how this story develops.Liverpool boss Arne Slot talks up ‘special player’ Mohamed Salah
Liverpool boss Arne Slot talks up ‘special player’ Mohamed Salah
‘Bidenomics’ has been successful I offer the following indicators of economic health that are in sharp contrast to those presented in the recent Republican presidential campaign. I was vexed that reality was repeatedly ignored in favor of a view falsely blaming Bidenomics for a poor performance. Readers can do their own internet search to check facts I’ve stated here. The stock market indices have set more than 30 all-time highs in the past two years alone. That doesn’t indicate a bad economy for which President Joe Biden was repeatedly blamed. The current U.S. gross domestic product is $29.35 trillion, which is a 1.5 percent increase from the previous quarter and a 4.94 percent increase from the previous year. And the unemployment rate was unchanged at 4.1 percent in October; the number of unemployed was little changed at 7 million. The Federal Reserve Bank, not Biden, was in charge and largely responsible for solving the inflation problem. Yet Biden was repeatedly scapegoated during the presidential campaign. Presumably, inflation was the chief pain voters were feeling. A lag behind Fed Chair Jerome Powell’s interest-rate prescription still persists. Finally, America doesn’t need to “drill, baby, drill” to become energy independent. In March, 2024 U.S. crude-oil production led global oil production for a sixth straight year, with a record-breaking average production of 12.9 million barrels per day. The Energy Information Administration said in a release in November that U.S. crude-oil production hit a new monthly record high of over 13.3 million barrels per day. Be prepared for a shock. T. DOUG OLIVE ChampaignThe eCourts Mission Mode Project, spearheaded by the Government of India in collaboration with the Department of Justice and the eCommittee of the Supreme Court, represents a transformative step in modernising the judiciary through Information and Communication Technology (ICT). This initiative aims to enhance the efficiency, transparency, and accessibility of the judicial process, ensuring a citizen-centric and inclusive approach to justice delivery. The project is revolutionising the legal ecosystem by streamlining court operations and integrating digital solutions, reflecting India’s commitment to a robust and technologically advanced judicial system. Phase I focused on basic computerisation and ICT infrastructure development across district and subordinate courts. Significant advancements have been made in computerising courts as part of the ongoing efforts to modernise the judiciary. 14,249 district and subordinate courts have been computerised to enhance efficiency and accessibility. To support this transition, Local Area Networks (LAN) have been successfully installed in 13,683 courts, ensuring seamless connectivity. Additionally, hardware has been provided to 13,436 courts, enabling them to operate modern systems. Installing software in 13,672 courts further facilitates the smooth functioning of court operations, streamlining case management and promoting transparency. These developments are crucial in strengthening the judicial system and improving justice delivery. Phase II of the ICT Enablement and Citizen-Centric Services initiative, spanning from 2015 to 2023, marked significant strides in enhancing the digital infrastructure of the judicial system. Over 14,000 judicial officers were equipped with laptops, and more than 14,000 were trained in the Ubuntu-Linux Operating System, alongside 3,900 court staff trained as System Administrators in the Case Information System (CIS). This phase also facilitated the operationalisation of video conferencing between 493 court complexes and 347 jails, streamlining court processes. Despite an allocated budget of Rs 935 crore, Rs 639.41 crore was effectively spent to further the goals of ICT adoption, improving efficiency and expanding citizen engagement through multiple new services. The digital infrastructure for the judicial system has been significantly enhanced, with connectivity provided to 18,735 courts through a diverse range of technologies, including MPLS, OFC, RF, VSAT, and SD-WAN. This robust network ensures that 99.5% of court complexes are connected through a Wide Area Network (WAN), offering speeds ranging from 10 to 100 Mbps. Such advancements in connectivity enable seamless communication and efficient digital operations across the judicial network, improving access to justice and enhancing the overall functioning of the legal system. The National Judicial Data Grid (NJDG) serves as a comprehensive repository of 27.64 crore orders and judgments, providing real-time access to judicial data, thus improving transparency and efficiency in the legal system. Complementing this is the Case Information Software (CIS), a free and open-source platform tailored to streamline case management in district and high courts. Communication within the judiciary is further enhanced through various platforms, including SMS services that send 4 lakh messages daily, email services with 6 lakh messages sent each day, and the eCourts Services Portal, which receives 35 lakh hits daily. Additionally, Judicial Service Centers and Info Kiosks contribute to the accessibility of legal services. Mobile applications like ECMT for lawyers, with 2.69 crore downloads, and JustIS for judges, with 20,719 downloads, facilitate seamless communication and case management for legal professionals. India has established itself as a global leader in utilising video conferencing for court hearings, a significant advancement in the judicial system. As of October 31, 2024, the District and Subordinate courts have conducted 2.48 crore hearings, while the High Courts have handled 90.21 lakh cases, totalling 3.38 crore hearings through video conferencing. The Supreme Court of India, between March 23, 2020, and June 4, 2024, has conducted 7.54 lakh hearings through this technology. In addition, video conferencing facilities have been set up between 3,240 court complexes and 1,272 jails, enhancing accessibility and efficiency within the justice system. This transformation highlights India’s commitment to modernising judicial proceedings and ensuring greater access to justice for all. The introduction of live streaming in various high courts and the Supreme Court is a significant step toward promoting transparency and accessibility in the judicial system. Allowing public access to real-time court proceedings fosters greater accountability and demystifies the judicial process. This initiative ensures that people can observe the legal proceedings, making the courts more accessible, especially for those who cannot attend in person due to geographical or other constraints. Additionally, it helps bridge the gap between the judiciary and the public, reinforcing the idea that justice should be open and available for scrutiny. The live streaming of court cases also sets a positive precedent for enhancing public trust in the legal system. As of October 31, 2024, virtual courts have been successfully operationalised in 21 states and Union Territories (UTs) to manage traffic challan cases. These courts have handled over six crore cases (6,00,29,546) and facilitated the resolution of more than 62 lakh (62,97,544) cases. Through these virtual platforms, online fines totalling over Rs. 649.81 crores have been collected, reflecting the growing efficiency and accessibility of the digital justice system in addressing traffic violations. This initiative has greatly contributed to streamlining the adjudication process and ensuring prompt resolution of cases. E-filing and e-payment systems have further modernised the judiciary, offering 24×7 access to case documents and the ability to electronically pay court fees, fines, and penalties. The rollout of Version 3.0 of this system allows seamless integration of services, ensuring that individuals can engage with the court system at any time, regardless of location. This digital shift enhances convenience, accelerates case management, and reduces the backlog that courts often face, providing a more efficient and transparent process for users. To bridge the digital divide and ensure access to justice for all, 1394 eSewa Kendras (Facilitation Centres) have been established in District Courts, alongside 36 centres in High Courts, offering crucial citizen-centric services to lawyers and litigants. These centres support litigants who may struggle with technology or reside in remote areas, helping them access online e-Courts services. The eSewa Kendras enable individuals to navigate the legal process more easily by addressing issues like illiteracy and limited technological resources. The initiative also delivers significant benefits, such as saving time, reducing the need for long-distance travel, and cutting costs. Additionally, it facilitates e-filing of cases, virtual hearings, and the scanning and access of e-Court services across the country, making the judicial system more efficient and inclusive. The rollout of Version 3.0 of the E-Filing and E-Payment Systems has marked a significant advancement in the digital transformation of the judicial system. This version facilitates round-the-clock access to case documents and the electronic payment of court fees, fines, and penalties. The system’s 24×7 availability ensures that litigants, advocates, and other stakeholders can access case-related information and settle financial obligations without the limitations of working hours. By simplifying these processes, the judicial system has made strides toward reducing delays and improving overall efficiency. Besides these technological innovations, the judiciary has launched the Judgment Search Portal. This portal provides an advanced search function that allows users to easily access judgments, making it a valuable resource for legal professionals, researchers, and the public. The service is free of charge, democratising access to judicial decisions and fostering greater transparency within the legal system. With the growing availability of legal data, stakeholders can better understand judicial precedents and rulings, supporting more informed decision-making. The judicial system’s commitment to digital literacy is further demonstrated through its extensive training programs. Between 2020 and 2024, 605 training programs were conducted, benefiting over 6.64 lakh stakeholders, including judges, advocates, and court staff. These programs are designed to improve digital literacy, ensuring that all participants are equipped to navigate the evolving technological landscape of the judicial process. By investing in continuous education, the judiciary is enhancing its workforce’s overall competence and readiness to manage digital tools effectively. The total budget allocated for modernising the modernisation judicial system was Rs 1,670 crore, with Rs 1,668.43 crore utilised. This significant financial investment reflects the government’s commitment to judicial reform and technological innovation. By investing in infrastructure, training, and digital systems, the judiciary is better equipped to handle the growing demands of a digital world, ultimately ensuring a more efficient, transparent, and accessible justice system for all. Approved by the Union Cabinet in September 2023, Phase III is a visionary step toward a fully digital and paperless judiciary. The transition to digital and paperless courts marks a significant leap towards efficiency and accessibility in the judicial system. The digitisation of court digitisation records, encompassing legacy and pending cases, ensures better organisation and organisation of information retrieval. Expansion of video conferencing (VC) facilities to include courts, jails, and hospitals enhances accessibility and reduces logistical challenges, while online courts broaden their scope beyond minor cases like traffic violations to include more complex matters. Additionally, establishing eSewa Kendras in all court complexes facilitates citizen-centric services, streamlining interactions with the judiciary. To support these advancements, a cloud-based data repository offers a secure and efficient platform for storing and retrieving case-related data, reinforcing the system’s reliability and user-friendliness. These initiatives collectively aim to modernise judicial processes and improve public access to justice. Integrating Artificial Intelligence (AI) and Optical Character Recognition (OCR) technology is revolutionising the judirevolutionisingcial system by addressing critical challenges such as case pendency, litigation trends, and judicial efficiency. AI algorithms and OCR can analyse vast amounts of case data, extracting valuable insights to identify case backlogs and delay patterns. This analysis enables authorities to prioritise the resolution process. Furthermore, AI-driven predictive models can forecast future litigation trends by evaluating historical data and socioeconomic factors, helping policymakers and legal institutions prepare for emerging challenges. Additionally, these technologies enhance judicial efficiency by automating routine tasks such as document digitisation, case categorisation, and research, allowing judicial officers to focus on core decision-making. AI and OCR promise to transform the judiciary into a more proactive, data-driven, and efficient system. The initiative to improve transparency and accountability through live streaming and electronic evidence handling is a crucial step towards enhancing governance and judicial efficiency. With an allocated budget of Rs 7,210 crore, four times the funding provided during Phase II, the focus is on integrating advanced technologies into the judicial and administrative processes. This increased funding will facilitate the expansion of live-streaming services for court proceedings, ensuring real-time access to justice and promoting greater public trust. Additionally, the handling of electronic evidence will be strengthened, streamlining the process for collecting, preserving, and presenting digital evidence, further bolstering the integrity and transparency of legal proceedings. The eCourts initiative is revolutionising the judirevolutionisingciary by fostering accessibility, affordability, and transparency in delivering justice. It addresses the issue of pendency by implementing faster case disposal mechanisms, ensuring timely resolution of disputes. Citizens and litigants are empowered with real-time access to case information, enhancing awareness and participation. The introduction of online services such as e-filing and e-payment has significantly increased convenience, reducing the need for court physical visits. Additionally, the initiative bridges the digital divide by establishing eSewa Kendras and conducting training programs, ensuring that even those in remote areas can benefit from technological advancements in the judicial system. The eCourts Mission Mode Project marks a transformative step in integrating technology with governance to modernise India’s judiciary. Through advanced technologies like AI, OCR, and a robust digital infrastructure, the initiative addresses critical issues such as case backlogs and accessibility to legal services. The project ensures that justice is delivered swiftly and equitably across the nation by emphasising citizen-emphasising services, digital literacy, and improved connectivity. With Phase III underway, the judiciary is poised to become more transparent, efficient, and inclusive, reaffirming the principles of justice, accountability, and equity while setting a global standard for judicial innovation.
SAN DIEGO , Dec. 5, 2024 /PRNewswire/ -- BSD Builders, Inc. today announced it has received seismic certification from California's OSHPD/HCAi for its state-of-the-art Microgrid Solutions. Developed in partnership with 2G Energy Inc., the BSD Special Seismically Certified (SSC) Microgrid product is set to revolutionize energy resilience and efficiency for all types of buildings. The BSD SSC Microgrid system, consisting of a cogeneration power plant and fuel storage, was initially designed to support California skilled nursing facilities' compliance with California Assembly Bill 2511, which California Governor Gavin Newsom signed into law on September 29, 2022 . This bill requires these facilities to have an alternative power source to protect resident health and safety for at least 96 hours during any type of power outage. This microgrid power solution is a self-contained electrical system that can operate independently from the main power grid. With the seismic certification, it is now available for any type of building that needs uninterruptable power. "At BSD Builders, we're passionate about creating solutions that make a difference in people's lives. We have developed a proprietary solution that not only meets but exceeds California's stringent seismic requirements while providing a reliable and efficient source of power, especially during unexpected power loss or natural disasters," said Jeff Blair , CEO of BSD Builders, Inc. "This solution offers long-term benefits not only by lowering utility costs, it can also help to improve the stability of the regional electric grid and reduce carbon emissions." Key features of the BSD SSC Microgrid Solution include: "2G Energy is proud to partner with BSD on the BSD SSC Microgrid System designing it for a wide range of applications, providing a reliable and cost-effective energy solution for skilled nursing facilities, hospitals, data centers, pharmaceutical labs, research facilities, cold storage units, data centers, and more," stated Darren Jamison , Managing Director of 2G Energy North America. "The design utilizes proprietary technologies to offer clients reduced utility costs and increased reliability. It is designed for continuous parallel operation with the utility as well as stand-alone island mode," concluded Jamison. For more information about the BSD SSC Microgrid System or to schedule a consultation, please visit bsdbuilders.com . About BSD Builders, Inc . - BSD Builders, Inc. is a leading general contractor specializing in the healthcare industry. Focusing on exceeding industry standards and delivering exceptional value to clients, BSD Builders, Inc. continues to set the benchmark for excellence in the construction and energy sectors. About 2G Energy – 2G Energy is a globally recognized leader in the development and production of combined heat and power (CHP) systems. With a commitment to sustainability and innovation, 2G Energy provides cutting-edge solutions that optimize energy efficiency and environmental performance. View original content to download multimedia: https://www.prnewswire.com/news-releases/bsd-builders-inc-advanced-microgrid-solutions-receives-california-seismic-certification-for-uninterruptible-power-supply-302324334.html SOURCE BSD Builders, Inc.We take the now-discontinued Hyundai i20 N for a farewell drive. It truly is a modern hot hatch great In a few short years, Hyundai N has accomplished a launch-control-worthy 0-60 in terms of brand awareness: thanks largely to the stellar i30 N and Hyundai i20 N hot hatches, N cars have become cult-hero modern classics within their own lifetime. And the halo effect has been transformative for Hyundai’s wider image, too. This most beige of brands was suddenly a maker of all-time-great affordable performance cars (and it’s been able to leverage that appeal with more profitable N Line trim levels for its mainstream models, too). Now it’s starting again – not from square one, but by turning the page to a hefty new chapter. In the past few months, petrol-powered N cars have ended sales in Europe as the N department pivots to performance EVs, the first of which being the well-received Hyundai Ioniq 5 N . To mark the changing of the guard, and take stock of Hyundai’s brief but bright stint as a master of the established hot hatch universe, we’re taking the i20 N on a well-earned adventure. And on these roads it’s hard to shake the feeling it’s been cut down in its prime. It feels as brilliant as ever, alive with an infectious sense of enthusiasm. Front-end grip is so keen it feels like the Pirellis’ compound is laced with mustard. The manual gearbox is joyously swift and slick. And like a few classic small hot hatches, it’s ever-eager to waggle its inside rear wheel in the air. The limited-slip differential – standard-fit on UK-spec i20 Ns – hooks up nicely but there’s impressively little torque-steer. The i20 N’s tail can be quite mobile if you want it to be – particularly on track – but on the road, even in these conditions where the wipers are struggling to keep up with the rain, it’s largely stable and safe but always a giggle. Maybe it’s the psychological link with Hyundai’s vaguely i20-based WRC cars, but the i20 N feels like a rally car on these winding Welsh lanes, gravel rattling in the arches and one-corner, one-turn, no-correction steering inputs. Mind you, it’s not quite one-corner, one-turn because you frequently find yourself fighting against bumps in the road: the i20 N’s MacPherson-front, torsion-beam-rear suspension (with stiffening measures versus a standard i20, to help the N change direction more eagerly) is a little on the unyielding side and it doesn’t breathe with the road like some hot hatches. Unlike its bigger, adaptively damped i30 N brother, it’s on passive dampers (the better to keep the i20 N affordable) but they feel like they get firmer as you ramp through the driving modes, as the steering becomes heavier and transmits more jolts through your arms. Ah yes, the modes: an N car hallmark. As well as the usual Eco, Normal and Sport, there’s a further, more aggressive N Mode and an N Custom mode where you can pick ’n’ mix settings for steering weight, engine map, stability control level and exhaust rowdiness. All are easily toggled by quick-flick shortcut buttons on the steering wheel (you can also easily toggle automatic rev-matching at a single button-press) then you preset your favourite combo. Sound familiar? A little like modern-era BMW M cars, in fact. No coincidence, of course. Shortly after the N subsection of the company had been created, Hyundai poached engineer and manager Albert Biermann from BMW, where he had spent 31 years, including in a pivotal role as chief engineer at BMW M division. It was Biermann who suggested that ‘N’, which had been chosen for the department’s name because it stood for Namyang, Hyundai’s R&D centre in Korea, should also stand for Nürburgring. ‘I suggested we combine it with Nürburgring because nobody [outside of the company] knows Namyang!’ he told me at the 2018 Nürburgring 24 Hour race (in which Hyundai was fielding a two-car i30 team in the TCR class – it would go on to win the WTCR World Touring Car Cup that year). ‘And we make a lot of big development decisions here, on the back-roads and on the track,’ he added. ‘We have tons of wind tunnel data, but final decisions are made here – in corners where you need a big heart, the car must feel planted.’ N engineers (try saying that in a hurry) have competed in the N24 race in development versions of the road cars, too, so the circuit really has played a key role in N cars’ creation. The N section of Hyundai isn’t officially called N ‘division’ – one stop in the alphabet from M division – but it’s hard not to refer to it as such. In 2018, Thomas Schemera, another senior BMW exec, became a further key member of N management. At the launch of the i30 N Fastback – a swoopy three-box quasi-saloon variant – Schemera described the first time he drove the i30 N hatch on which it was based. Multiple configurable modes, raucous exhaust on start-up, torso-hugging seats, purposeful driving position... he recognised Biermann’s influence instantly. The i30 N’s attributes set the template for the N cars that followed. Its spicy suspension set-up, Recaro-style seats, weighty power steering and gurgling, gargling exhaust voice are all there in the Hyundai i20 N too, and it uses the same software for its track-friendly stability control modes – Normal, Sport and Off. The N team were able to get involved in the base car’s development earlier than with the i30, however, so they could set their requirements before the regular i20’s design was frozen. They didn’t have to design a whole new front axle, as they did to transform the standard i30 into the i30 N, for example. I’ve been lucky enough to run both i30 N and i20 N as long-term test cars in the past, and loved them both. The i30 N even more so than the i20 N: there’s something about the older, bigger car’s more muscular character, the extra performance of its brawny 2-litre engine over the 1.6-litre i20 and the sense that it’s a bit of a hot rod, a skunkworks-style development of a very ordinary base car into something special. But the i20 N does feel a more complete, cohesive car: you can tell N division got its mitts on the source material from the start. It’s a superb modern performance car with character to match the great small hatches, but, equally impressively, the i20 N is great at being a normal car, too. It’s more refined than a small, lightweight car has any right to be (at 1190kg, its kerb weight is impressively scant by modern standards). It’s genuinely comfy on a long journey – far more so than a GR Yaris , or a Fiesta ST – and roomy as well. Reasonably frugal too, averaging mid-30s mpg figures, and often close to 40, compared with the thirstier i30 N’s mid-20s during my six months running both. It’s positively luxurious in terms of standard equipment: heated seats and steering wheel; parking sensors and reversing camera; du jour digital dials and a more user-friendly touchscreen than most – although later models such as this one have frustrating touch-sensitive surfaces in place of buttons next to the screen, meaning more eyes-off-road time than with earlier cars. Big-car kit in a supermini space. The graphics on the instrument screen are a bit puerile – rendered carbonfibre in Sport mode, and animated fire crackling around the tacho when you select N Mode – but this is a car with a sense of fun, and goodness knows that’s not a bad thing. A host of performance data can be displayed on the main screen and the instrument panel, from throttle opening and brake pressure to individual temperatures for coolant, oil and the engine itself. The latter in particular shows it’s been engineered by people who care about driving. First time I drove an i30 N (and some earlier BMW M cars), I found the modes slightly gimmicky – sometimes it’s nice to enjoy the purity of a performance car without any modes at all – but they really do bring an extra dimension to the i20 N. You can save fuel and drive around quite unobtrusively in Normal or Eco mode, yet in Sport or N it feels a dramatically more eager machine. And having those presets – stability control all-off or part-off, rev-matching on or not – toggleable straight away from the wheel; there’s a lot to be said for that. It’s not a perfect car, of course. Even in the lightest of its three weight settings, I find the power steering a little heavy for my tastes; its leaden feel actually makes the i20 N feel less nimble than it really is. And the engine feels a little leaden, too. Although the turbocharged 1.6 four has a 350-bar direct-injection pressure and a special ignition system for the i20 N, it’s a little lethargic in nature: a heavy flywheel means that revs take a moment to climb and likewise to die away. Drop out of the powerband and it can take a little while to get back into the turbocharged sweet spot, and sometimes upshifts are a little slurred, like a learner driver accidentally slipping the clutch, because the revs ‘hang’ a little. It doesn’t sound particularly inspiring either, even in the most vocal of the valved exhaust silencer’s three settings. These are the smallest of nits to pick, though. This is a truly great car, and fully deserving of evo ’s five-star rating. And all for a fiver under £25,000. There’s no hot hatch worth the name out there in that bracket now, more’s the pity. And few small hot hatches full stop: no Fiesta ST, no 208 GTi . Only the more grown-up-feeling, less exuberant VW Polo GTI remains, and the upcoming new Mini JCW . If the i20 N is where the 205 GTI dynasty ends, it’s a fitting finale – but what a shame it’s seemingly at a close. The marque's official statement for when the end of i30 N and Hyundai i20 N production for Europe was announced read: ‘Production of the ICE N models has ceased for the European market starting from February, in line with our commitment to offering a zero-tailpipe-emission line-up to our customers by 2035 and to operating 100 per cent carbon neutrally by 2045. Going forward in Europe, Hyundai is developing Hyundai N as a pioneer of high-performance EVs. Our customers will benefit from technological developments that will make EVs even more attractive in the future.’ The first such model, the Ioniq 5 N, is truly impressive. It combines front and rear electric motors for a 600bhp-plus total output, and in many ways makes a virtue of its powertrain; in other ways it deliberately mimics the behaviour of traditional combustion-engined performance cars, with the option to simulate the sound and response of a petrol engine and ‘eight-speed’ paddleshift gearbox. The point is not to fool the driver but to assist them: driving quickly in a silent, gearshift-free EV can be a disorienting, even nauseous experience. A sweep of artificial revs – even hitting a false limiter, should you wait too long to change up in manual mode – builds acceleration in what feels like a more natural crescendo. On upshifts, the system temporarily backs off the power, and on downshifts it uses regenerative braking. You can downshift using ‘engine’ braking to tuck into corners just as you might in an i20N. It’s even been designed to cope with long-ish stints on track (including multiple laps of the Nürburgring, something not necessarily possible in a Porsche Taycan, for example) without overheating. Not easy for an energy-hungry, 2.2-ton EV. (Yes, 2.2 tons.) With regenerative motor braking working together with the friction brakes, Hyundai says the brakes can actually last longer on track than an i30 N’s. You can’t totally disguise its weight and bulk, and the Ioniq 5 N is a car that takes time to get to know properly. You need to delve into all the different modes and sub-modes (and if there were plenty of those in the i20 N, there are far, far more in the Ioniq 5 N) to get the best from it in different scenarios. But its bandwidth – from city driving to motorways to mountain passes to racetracks – is seriously impressive. We’re still at the beginning of understanding its capabilities, but N division has built a genuinely engaging all-electric driver’s car. It doesn’t have the same immediate grin factor as the i20 N, though, and it’s a far from inexpensive car at £65,000. Compared with pricing in the mid-£20k bracket for the i20 N and low-30s for the i30 N, that’s quite a climb, for admittedly quite a car. And one can imagine, given the complexity of the Ioniq 5 N, that Hyundai may not be reaping an enormous profit from each one; like earlier N cars, it functions as a halo product, after all. Hot hatches aren’t the land of milk and honey they once were for major manufacturers, as hatchback sales in general decrease and margins get tighter. The dearth of hot hatches on the market generally, and the high prices of those that remain – £50k-plus for the Civic Type R , £40k-plus for the latest GR Yaris and a £38k starting price for the new Mk8.5 VW Golf GTI – are evidence of that. And tightening emissions regs have played a part in hastening the petrol-powered N cars’ early exit from this market. It’s well under a decade since the i30 N’s launch but it’s hard to remember a time when Hyundai N’s baby-blue signature colour wasn’t a part of the furniture in the hot hatch market. And less than half a decade since the i20 N’s introduction. This drive confirms the baby N car is a true great. Those Antipodean petrolheads in Perth knew that already. And coincidentally, on the evening I’m writing this, three ‘Hyundai N Yard Meets’ are being held concurrently at Caffeine & Machine’s venues. From Western Australia to the West Midlands, it’s truly remarkable that in a short space of time, from a standing start, an automotive sub-brand could become a cult folk favourite with global appeal. And that’s all down to the quality of the cars, and the Hyundai i20 N and i30 N in particular. If the next generation of electric-powered N cars are as impressive as the Ioniq 5 N, that groundswell of good feeling could well continue. But one can’t help but feel a little sad that N division has had to leave the old-school hot hatch party a little early.President-elect Donald Trump’s lawyers urge judge to toss his hush money conviction
Pat King found guilty of mischief for role in ‘Freedom Convoy’
Share Tweet Share Share Email As the cryptocurrency market matures, excitement for the next bull run is building. While Bitcoin and Ethereum remain dominant, numerous altcoins are preparing for significant growth in the months ahead. One standout is Lightchain AI (LCAI) , which is gaining attention for its innovative blend of artificial intelligence and blockchain technology. Investors should take note of the ongoing Lightchain AI Presale , a unique opportunity to get in early on this promising project. In this article, we’ll dive into some of the top altcoins to watch, including LCAI, as the market gears up for its next big surge. Lightchain AI (LCAI) Revolutionary Blend of AI and Blockchain Lightchain AI (LCAI) is quickly becoming one of the most talked-about tokens in the market, and for good reason. Costing only $0.003 in its early sale, LCAI has one of the top chances for growth in crypto world. The coin uses a smart Proof of Intelligence (PoI) way, giving rewards to nodes for helpful AI tasks like training models and working with data. ͏Its Smart Machine (AIVM) lets the making of AI-driven apps, which can be used in many fields, from money to shipping and health care. More people are looking into LCAI. This is due to its special mix of new tech and actual uses that make it different from other digital money. With a solid plan that has important goals for 2024 and 2025; LCAI is ready for big growth, with some experts thinking it could grow by 20,000 percent by 2025. Cardano (ADA) Strong Contender for Long-Term Growth Cardano (ADA) has long been seen as a promising altcoin, with a strong focus on scalability, security, and sustainability. The platform’s proof-of-stake consensus mechanism, coupled with its emphasis on academic research and peer-reviewed development, has earned it a dedicated following. With upcoming upgrades and the increasing adoption of its smart contract capabilities, Cardano is positioned for strong growth leading up to the next bull run. As more developers build on Cardano’s ecosystem, the token’s utility and demand are likely to increase. Analysts predict that Cardano could see significant gains as the network continues to evolve, with a potential for 5x returns over the next year. Solana (SOL) Ready to Bounce Back Stronger Than Ever Solana (SOL) experienced explosive growth in 2021, but recent challenges have led to some volatility. Despite this, the Solana network remains one of the fastest and most scalable blockchain platforms available, and its ecosystem is growing rapidly. With new developments and updates on the horizon, Solana is expected to make a strong recovery and outperform many other altcoins in the coming months. Investors are keeping a close eye on Solana’s ability to maintain its position as a top-tier platform for decentralized applications (dApps) and NFTs. As the network stabilizes and adoption continues, Solana could see a major surge as we head into 2025, making it one of the top altcoins to watch. Polkadot (DOT) Connecting Blockchains for a Decentralized Future Polkadot (DOT) has been making waves in the cryptocurrency space by solving one of the biggest issues facing blockchain technology today interoperability. The Polkadot network enables different blockchains to communicate and share information seamlessly, a feature that is increasingly in demand as the ecosystem grows. As more blockchains look to connect and work together, Polkadot’s position as a leader in cross-chain communication makes it a promising investment. Experts predict that Polkadot’s utility and demand will increase significantly over the next year, positioning it for strong growth ahead of the next bull run. Chainlink (LINK) Oracle Network Powering DeFi and Beyond Chainlink (LINK) has established itself as a vital part of the decentralized finance (DeFi) ecosystem by providing reliable and secure oracles to smart contracts. As the DeFi space continues to expand, Chainlink’s role in enabling smart contracts to interact with real-world data becomes increasingly important. With growing demand for DeFi solutions and Chainlink’s expanding partnerships, LINK is expected to see substantial growth in the coming months. Experts believe that Chainlink’s utility and increasing adoption make it a top contender for significant gains during the next bull run. Why You Should Keep an Eye on These Altcoins As we approach the next market cycle, several altcoins are primed to deliver significant returns. Lightchain AI (LCAI) , Cardano (ADA), Solana (SOL), Polkadot (DOT), and Chainlink (LINK) all stand out due to their unique technological innovations, growing ecosystems, and real-world applications. For investors looking to maximize their returns during the upcoming bull run, these altcoins represent some of the best opportunities in the market. By diversifying your portfolio with these promising assets, you position yourself to benefit from the explosive growth expected in the cryptocurrency space. With each project focusing on solving real-world problems and creating value, these altcoins are more than just speculative plays—they are investments in the future of blockchain technology. So keep a close eye on these top altcoins and consider adding them to your portfolio for potential long-term gains. As always, remember to do your own research before investing in any cryptocurrency and never invest more than you can afford to lose. Why Lightchain AI is a Top Pick for the Future While all of the altcoins mentioned have unique strengths and potential, Lightchain AI (LCAI) stands out for its groundbreaking combination of artificial intelligence and blockchain technology. The use cases for LCAI are vast , spanning industries from finance to healthcare to logistics. This versatility makes it a strong contender for long-term growth as more businesses look to integrate AI into their operations. Moreover, LCAI’s advanced Proof of Intelligence consensus mechanism rewards nodes for valuable AI computations, making it an attractive option for miners looking to earn rewards while supporting innovative technology. With a strong roadmap in place and ongoing developments in both its AI-powered decentralized applications and blockchain infrastructure, LCAI is well-positioned for significant growth in the coming years. Some experts even predict a potential 20,000% return by 2025. So join presale now and don’t miss out on this top pick for the future of blockchain technology. With its unique combination of AI and blockchain, Lightchain AI has the potential to disrupt industries and create significant value for investors. https://lightchain.ai https://lightchain.ai/lightchain-whitepaper.pdf https://x.com/LightchainAI https://t.me/LightchainProtocol Related Items: Lightchain , press release Share Tweet Share Share Email Recommended for you Could This Lesser-Known Crypto Asset Be the Key To Unlocking Substantial Wealth? Crypto Gem-Spotter Identifies No Brainer Token Ready To Overtake Polygon’s (POL) 2021 Rally IntelMarkets Impresses With 80% Price Bump While XRP Loses Key Support Levels CommentsJudge dismisses Republican election lawsuit against Fulton County
Political stress: Can you stay engaged without sacrificing your mental health?
Report: Iowa CB Jermari Harris opts out of rest of seasonPolice say searchers in Pennsylvania don’t expect to find woman in sinkhole alive UNITY TOWNSHIP, Pa. (AP) — The search for a woman who is believed to have fallen into a sinkhole in western Pennsylvania is moving into a recovery effort after two days of searching produced no signs of life. Pennsylvania State Police spokesperson Trooper Steve Limani said during a news conference Wednesday that authorities no longer believe they will find 64-year-old Elizabeth Pollard alive, but that the search for her remains continues. Limani says crews have seen "no signs of any form of life or anything.” Pollard was last seen alive Monday evening when she went out looking for her cat in the village of Marguerite, about 40 miles east of Pittsburgh. WWE is seeking a bigger stage and Netflix, pushing for more live events, is providing it WWE will perform on a stage next month that could be vastly larger than its current home on cable television when it makes its “Raw” debut on Netflix. The sports entertainment company is moving to a platform with about 283 million subscribers worldwide as it departs its current home on the USA Network, which averaged 688,000 viewers in prime-time last year, according to the Nielsen company. For Netflix, onboarding the WWE is part of strategic move to air more live events on the heels of a hugely successful fight between Mike Tyson and Jake Paul that was viewed by more than 60 million people. Michigan court upholds light sentence for woman who killed dad in dispute over ride DETROIT (AP) — The Michigan Court of Appeals has declined to overturn a light jail sentence for a young woman who killed her father by burning him with a dangerous powder. Prosecutors said Megan Imirowicz was upset when her father couldn’t drive her to a hair appointment before her 18th birthday party. Imirowicz was sentenced to only a year in jail in 2023. She actually spent more than a year in custody because she was locked up before trial and while awaiting her punishment in suburban Detroit. Sumo wrestlers bring 1,500 years of tradition to London as the sport has an international moment LONDON (AP) — London’s Royal Albert Hall is preparing to host a different kind of spectacle: Sumo wrestling. Wrestlers put on an exhibition of heavyweight grappling to promote a tournament scheduled for next October. It marks only the second time an elite five-day tournament will be held outside Japan. The first was held in 1991 at the same venue. Organizers are hoping to whip up the kind of excitement that was generated three decades ago, when the deeply ritualistic sport attracted sell-out crowds and a national television audience. The end of an Eras tour approaches, marking a bittersweet moment for Taylor Swift fans NASHVILLE, Tenn. (AP) — The global phenomenon that is Taylor Swift’s Eras Tour is coming to an end after the popstar performed more than 150 shows across five continents over nearly two years. Since launching the tour in 2023, Swift has shattered sales and attendance records. It's even created such an economic boom that the Federal Reserve took note. But for many who attended the concerts, and the millions more who eagerly watched on their screens, the tour also became a beacon of joy. It's become a chance not only to appreciate Swift’s expansive music career, but also celebrate the yearslong journey fans have taken with her. Jury revisits key videos in NYC subway chokehold death trial NEW YORK (AP) — Jurors have asked to review police and bystander video at the heart of the New York City chokehold manslaughter case against Daniel Penny. The request came during a second day of deliberations Wednesday. The jury asked for a second look at videos captured by the body cameras of officers who responded to the subway car where Penny grabbed hold of Jordan Neely in May 2023. Neely's agitated behavior and remarks were frightening passengers. Jurors also asked to revisit Penny's interview with detectives and a bystander's video of much of the roughly six-minute restraint. And the jury also requested to rehear part of a city medical examiner’s testimony. Penny's lawyers say his actions were justified. Relatives hunt for the missing after Guinea stadium crush amid fears official death toll is too low CONAKRY, Guinea (AP) — Kambaly Kouroumah was searching a local morgue for his teenage brother, Adama, who died after chaos erupted at a soccer game in southern Guinea’s Nzerekore city. Adama, 15, was among 56 people that officials said were killed in Sunday's crush, although rights groups reported a death toll nearly three times higher. Local media, rights groups and witnesses say security forces used tear gas to respond after fans began to throw stones to protest a referee's decision during the soccer game that was organized in honor of Guinea's junta leader, Col. Mamadi Doumbouya. Many of the dead were crushed as they tried to escape through the stadium gates, videos showed. Power shortages in Ecuador are melting away the future of a small town’s ice-cream industry SALCEDO, Ecuador (AP) — Ice-cream production in this quiet Ecuadorian town began in the mid-20th century in a convent for Franciscan nuns. The nuns sold their creamy popsicles in town to gather funds for the poor. But the people of Salcedo saw a business opportunity and began experimenting with new flavors and techniques, establishing a thriving popsicle industry that has made their small town famous among ice-cream lovers. But now, the South American nation is struggling with a relentless wave of power cuts that threaten the future of Salcedo’s ice-cream industry, melting away its dreams of a more prosperous future. Senegalese artisans in the spotlight as they exhibit for the first time at a prestigious art event DAKAR, Senegal (AP) — For the artistic and cultural elites of the West African nation of Senegal, the monthlong Dakar Biennale of Contemporary African Arts is a celebratory moment. But it wasn’t until this year that the local artisans in the Soumbedioune crafts market, just off the Corniche and at the doorstep on the Medina working-class neighborhood, realized what the Biennale was. Craftsmanship is deeply rooted in the country’s culture, but its role has declined in recent years. As living costs rise, many Senegalese opt for cheaper, Chinese-imported products. And those that can afford it buy Western clothes and furniture to mark their social status. Eminem's mother Debbie Nelson, whose rocky relationship fueled the rapper's lyrics, dies at age 69 Debbie Nelson, the mother of rapper Eminem whose rocky relationship with her son was known widely through his song lyrics, has died. She was 69. Eminem’s longtime representative Dennis Dennehy confirmed Nelson’s death in an email on Tuesday. He did not provide a cause of death, although Nelson had battled lung cancer. Nelson’s fraught relationship with her son, whose real name is Marshall Mathers III, has been no secret since the Detroit rapper became a star. Nelson brought and settled two defamation lawsuits over Eminem’s statements about her in magazines and on radio talk shows. In her 2008 book, “My Son Marshall, My Son Eminem,” she attempted to set the record straight.
FIA Gujranwala arrests two human smugglers linked to Greece boat tragedy
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