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2025-01-12
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fortuner q black (The Center Square) – American taxpayers may provide a loan of more than $7.5 billion to a joint venture involving automaker Chrysler that plans to build electric vehicle batteries in Indiana. On Monday, the U.S. Department of Energy’s Loan Program Office revealed that StarPlus Energy has received a “conditional commitment” for the multi-billion dollar loan. If approved, teh money would help the collaboration between FCA US and Samsung SDI Co. construct two lithium-ion battery plants in the Kokomo 50 miles north of Indianapolis. The loan announcement comes after the Indiana Economic Development Corp. pledged hundreds of millions of dollars in state tax credits and incentives to the project. Stellantis, FCA’s parent company, and Samsung first announced plans to build an electric vehicle battery plant in Kokomo in May 2022. Then, in October 2023, the partners announced they would construct a second plant. According to Monday’s announcement, the project is expected to create up to 3,200 construction jobs as well as 2,800 plant jobs. The batteries built in Kokomo are forecasted to power about 670,000 electric cars each year. Stellantis would purchase the batteries for the vehicles marketed in the United States. An Energy Department fact sheet indicates that the interest rate for the loan would be the “applicable U.S. Treasury rate for the term of the loan with no credit spread.” No details on the term were immediately available. “This project reinforces President Biden’s Investing in America agenda to onshore and reshore domestic manufacturing technologies,” the Energy Department’s statement said. The loan would come through the federal government’s Advanced Technology Vehicles Manufacturing Loan Program, which was first established through the Energy Independence and Security Act of 2007. It would be the second Indiana plant to receive program funds. Last month, the Biden administration announced the finalization of a $1.3 billion loan to ENTEK, which is constructing a factory in Terre Haute to make separators used in lithium-ion batteries. The Biden administration and StarPlus must still complete some requirements before the loan can be finalized. Among them, StarPlus must create a Community Benefits Plan that demonstrates how the company will work with local officials and labor groups. The battery plants are being built using workers from local trade unions. Administration officials are also expecting StarPlus to participate in the Justice40 Initiative, which calls for 40% of the benefits produced from the government’s investment to boost communities that are considered underinvested “and overburdened by pollution.”

'Malcolm in the Middle' to offer new episodes with Frankie Muniz, Bryan Cranston and Jane Kaczmarek Frankie Muniz, Bryan Cranston and Jane Kaczmarek are reuniting for a new four-episode run of “Malcolm in the Middle” for Disney+ — 25 years after the beloved sitcom first launched. The show ran for seven seasons starting in 2000 and was hailed for looking at ordinary life through the eyes of an extraordinary youngster, now fully grown: Malcolm, played by Muniz, has a genius I.Q. The new four episodes will be crafted by original series creator Linwood Boomer. No air dates were announced. “Malcolm in the Middle” originally aired on Fox and ended its run in 2006. Woman who falsely accused Duke lacrosse players of rape in 2006 publicly admits she lied RALEIGH, N.C. (AP) — The woman who in 2006 falsely accused three Duke University lacrosse players of raping her has admitted publicly for the first time that she made up the story. The accusations made national headlines at the time, stirring tensions about race, class and the privilege of college athletes. Crystal Mangum, who is Black, said in an interview with the “Let’s Talk with Kat” podcast that she “made up a story that wasn’t true” about the white players who attended a party where she was hired to perform as a stripper “because I wanted validation from people and not from God.” The former Duke players were declared innocent in 2007 after Mangum’s story fell apart under legal scrutiny. Sophia, a famous robot and global icon of AI, wins hearts at Zimbabwe's innovation fair HARARE, Zimbabwe (AP) — Sophia, a world-renowned robot, has been the center of attention at an Artificial Intelligence and Innovation fair in Zimbabwe this week. Described as an AI global icon by the U.N., Sophia can hold human-like conversations with people and recognize their gestures. As a special guest at the week-long event at the University of Zimbabwe, she answered questions on academic topics from researchers. Children quizzed her about the bible, God and her birth. She also made clear her aversion to human food and romance. The United Nations Development Program said it brought Sophia to Zimbabwe as part of efforts to “inspire youth, policymakers, and innovators to embrace AI as a catalyst for development.” Stanley recalls millions of travel mugs over concerns the lids might fall off, causing burns Stanley is recalling approximately 2.6 million of its switchback and trigger action stainless steel travel mugs sold in the U.S. because of a potential burn hazard. The company said that the mug’s lid threads can shrink when exposed to heat and torque, causing the lid to detach during use, posing a burn hazard. Stanley has received 91 reports worldwide, including 16 in the U.S., of the recalled travel mugs’ lids detaching during use, resulting in 38 burn injuries worldwide, including two burn injuries in the U.S., with 11 consumers worldwide requiring medical attention. Miami Dolphins release veteran receiver Odell Beckham Jr. MIAMI GARDENS, Fla. (AP) — The Miami Dolphins released wide receiver Odell Beckham Jr. on Friday, ending the former Pro Bowler’s short tenure with the team. Beckham had missed the past two days of practice for what the team called personal reasons. Dolphins coach Mike McDaniel indicated that the decision to part ways was mutual. Beckham signed a one-year deal with the Dolphins in May, but started the season on the physically unable to perform list after offseason knee surgery. Since his Dolphins debut in Week 5 against New England, Beckham had just nine catches for 55 yards in nine games. Bird strike disables a jetliner engine and forces an emergency landing at JFK airport NEW YORK (AP) — Authorities say a bird strike involving an American Airlines jetliner disabled one of the plane’s two engines shortly after takeoff from New York’s LaGuardia Airport. The plane was forced to turn around and land at John F. Kennedy International Airport. Airline officials say no one was injured. Flight 1722 took off from LaGuardia at 7:43 p.m. Thursday with a destination of Charlotte, North Carolina. Airport officials say it safely made an emergency landing at Kennedy at 8:03 p.m. The Federal Aviation Administration is investigating. The agency received reports of 19,400 strikes at 713 airports across the U.S. last year alone. Rarely do they force jetliners to make emergency landings. 49ers LB De'Vondre Campbell refuses to enter game after losing his starting spot SANTA CLARA, Calif. (AP) — San Francisco linebacker De’Vondre Campbell refused to enter the game in the third quarter after losing his starting job when Dre Greenlaw returned from an injury. Campbell played 90% of defensive snaps for the 49ers but was benched after Greenlaw came back for his first game since tearing his left Achilles tendon in last season’s Super Bowl. When Greenlaw left with soreness in the third quarter Thursday night against the Rams, Campbell told the coaches he didn't want to play and left the field. Coach Kyle Shanahan says he has never seen that before and the team will “figure out something” on how to deal with it going forward. 'Crown of Thorns' returns to Notre Dame Cathedral for public veneration PARIS (AP) — An ancient relic that many Christians revere as Jesus Christ’s “Crown of Thorns” has returned to Notre Dame, five years after it was saved from the flames of the cathedral’s devastating 2019 fire. The crown — a circular band of branches encased in a gilded golden tube — was brought back to its historic home Friday in a ceremony. The event was presided over by the archbishop of Paris and attended by knights and dames of the Equestrian Order of the Holy Sepulcher, marking a key moment in the cathedral’s restoration journey. In 1239, it was acquired by King Louis IX of France, who brought it to Paris. 'Vanderpump Rules' star James Kennedy arrested on suspicion of misdemeanor domestic violence BURBANK, Calif. (AP) — Police say “Vanderpump Rules” star James Kennedy has been arrested on suspicion of misdemeanor domestic violence. Police in Burbank, California, say officers investigated reports of an argument between a man and a woman at a residence late Tuesday night and arrested the 32-year-old Kennedy. He was released from jail after posting bail. A representative of Kennedy did not immediately respond to a message seeking comment. The Burbank city attorney will decide whether to file charges. Kennedy is a DJ and reality TV star who has appeared for 10 seasons on “Vanderpump Rules” — the Bravo series about the lives of employees at a set of swank restaurants. Dick Vitale says he's cancer-free after 4th bout with the disease in just over 3 years Dick Vitale said he’s cancer-free after his fourth bout with the disease in just over three years. The 85-year-old ESPN college basketball analyst posted Thursday on X that he got the news after a morning scan, saying: “SANTA CLAUS came early as Dr Rick Brown called & said that my PET SCAN at 7 AM came back CLEAN OF CANCER !” Vitale posted on X. “OMG thanks so much to ALL of YOU for your (prayers). Yes I’m cutting the nets down baby it’s my National Championship!” Vitale had surgery in the summer to remove cancerous lymph nodes from his neck. The Basketball Hall of Famer was previously treated for melanoma and lymphoma, and had radiation treatments last year for vocal cord cancer.



Shoppers bemused as Easter eggs hit shop shelves before New Year’s Eve(BPT) - Tech gifts are consistently some of the most popular presents to give and receive during the holidays. In fact, according to the annual Consumer Technology Holiday Purchase Patterns report , a record 233 million U.S. adults (89%) will buy tech products during the 2024 holiday season. But with so many devices out there, it can be hard to decide on the perfect option for the loved one on your list. A tablet like the new Fire HD 8 from Amazon offers the versatility of an all-in-one device, with access to streaming, gaming, video chatting, reading or writing all at your fingertips. Fire HD 8 also features a vibrant 8-inch HD display and lightweight, portable design, for high-quality entertainment on the go. Plus, Fire HD 8 comes with three new AI features that can help you get the most out of your tablet experience. Check them out below and learn how they can help you with daily tasks this holiday season and beyond. 1. Meet your personal writing assistant Do you struggle with writing a heartfelt message or finessing a tricky email? Fear not! Writing Assist is here to help. Writing Assist works as part of your Fire tablet's device keyboard and compatible apps, including email, Word documents and social media. In just a few taps, you can transform your writing from good to great. Try Writing Assist's pre-set styles to turn a simple email into a professionally written note. Or, you can ask Writing Assist for grammar suggestions to make your writing more concise, or elaborate on your ideas. You can even "emojify" your writing to add more fun and personality. 2. Learn more in less time Say goodbye to scrolling through pages of information. The new Webpage Summaries feature allows you to learn pertinent information as quickly as possible. Available on the Silk browser on Fire tablets, Webpage Summaries provides quick insights on web articles. In a matter of seconds, this feature will distill the key points in an article or on a webpage into a clear, concise summary of what you need to know. 3. Get creative with your device wallpaper With Wallpaper Creator, you can easily add a touch of creative flair and customization to your tablet's home screen. You can choose from one of the curated prompts to get started on creating a unique background. Or, if you're ready to let your imagination run wild, type a description of what you'd like to see. For example, you can ask for an image of a tiger swimming underwater or a watercolor-style image of a desert landscape in space. Wallpaper Creator will then turn your vision into a reality, delivering a high-resolution image that you can use as your tablet's wallpaper. Celebrate an AI-powered holiday season Writing Assist, Webpage Summaries, and Wallpaper Creator are now available on Amazon's new Fire HD 8 and other compatible Fire tablet devices, including the latest Fire HD 10 and Fire Max 11 tablets. To learn more, or to order a new Fire tablet this gift-giving season, visit Amazon.com .

The late 1970s were a sad time for America. The Vietnam War had just ended. Big cities fell in the grip of crime and neglect as the 1975 fiscal crisis pushed New York City to the brink of bankruptcy. New York uniformed police, angry at the mayor’s budget cuts, handed out “Welcome to Fear City” leaflets at the airports. Featuring a hooded skull, the flyers warned visitors to stay off the streets after 6 p.m. It urged them to not leave Manhattan and to avoid the subways altogether. Yet two years almost to the day after Saigon fell, an ambitious dance club opened on a shabby side street of Manhattan. Studio 54 became the world’s most famous disco. Then came the movie “Saturday Night Fever,” its score dominated by those rhythmic Bee Gees chart-toppers starting with “Stayin’ Alive.” Americans found joy under the spinning mirrored balls. To quote the name of Chic’s super disco hit, they wanted to “Dance, Dance, Dance.” We needed disco then. We need disco again — or something like it. The pandemic is over, and many of us are seeking escape from our toxic politics. What about disco set off the animal spirits? Discos enabled ordinary people to dance off their anxieties to a simple four-on-the-floor beat. The grayness outside got blocked out by flashy sequins and spandex — and in fantasy settings divorced from the grim realities. Disco replaced the dirty jeans and stoned-out pain of rock with groomed elegance. People again danced in couples. As Regine Zylberberg, owner of Regine’s, an elegant disco on Manhattan’s Upper East Side, bragged, “I am the one who saved the city from bankruptcy. I made it happy again.” But disco fever spread across the country, in big cities and small towns. Discos opened at airport Holiday Inns. Live entertainment, part of what’s now called the “experience economy,” is seeing double-digit growth, Bloomberg News reports. As evidence, it points to a packed nightclub in Manhattan called Somewhere Nowhere, where swing dancers have taken over the floor. Patrick Soluri, whose Prohibition Productions puts on swing nights, says revenue from his Jazz Age-themed events has more than doubled since 2019, and he is expanding beyond New York. The key to disco’s popularity was that the people were the show. They weren’t passively watching guitarists showing off their long solo riffs, one complaint against ’70s rock. More recently, hip hop presents the same drawback with artists commanding the spotlight. A communal culture that shares some similarities to disco is Western line dancing. Though around forever, line dancing got a boost from the 1980 film “Urban Cowboy.” It did for that genre some of what “Saturday Night Fever” did for disco. As with disco, line dancers are the show. And fashions also are attached — those fabulous cowboy boots and hats, jeans and denim skirts. And as with disco, Western line dancing now has its own clubs and events all over the country. Ironically, the digitalization of American life isn’t so much killing these experiences as exposing us to the joys of being there in person. No matter how terrific the video production, it can’t recreate the visceral thrill of dancing amid a celebratory crowd. Disco inspired a kind of second Jazz Age. And though its golden era is almost 50 years in the past, one can’t help but notice all those store windows now decked out for the holidays with sparkling disco balls. To this day, disco balls radiate fun and glamour and partying. Today, like then, we need a scene in which Americans can let loose, work off tensions, forget about Washington — and with a dance that anyone can do. Americans need to dance, dance, dance. Harrop, who lives in New York City and Providence, Rhode Island, writes for Creators Syndicate: fharrop@gmail.com . Be the first to know Get local news delivered to your inbox!peepo/E+ via Getty Images Many analysts picked semiconductors as the sector to own in 2024. That idea started well in January, but at the end of November, the iShares Semiconductor ETF ( NASDAQ: SOXX ) is trading where it was back in Analyst’s Disclosure: I/we have no stock, option or similar derivative position in any of the companies mentioned, and no plans to initiate any such positions within the next 72 hours. I wrote this article myself, and it expresses my own opinions. I am not receiving compensation for it (other than from Seeking Alpha). I have no business relationship with any company whose stock is mentioned in this article. Seeking Alpha's Disclosure: Past performance is no guarantee of future results. No recommendation or advice is being given as to whether any investment is suitable for a particular investor. Any views or opinions expressed above may not reflect those of Seeking Alpha as a whole. Seeking Alpha is not a licensed securities dealer, broker or US investment adviser or investment bank. Our analysts are third party authors that include both professional investors and individual investors who may not be licensed or certified by any institute or regulatory body.

Pro Picks: Chiefs will beat the Steelers and Ravens will edge the Texans on Christmas DayNFL on Netflix: Christmas Day games are a 1st for streaming giant

Friedman Industries director Max Reichenthal buys $27,440 in stock

Nearly half of American teenagers say they are online “constantly” despite concerns about the effects of social media and smartphones on their mental health, according to a new report published Thursday by the Pew Research Center. As in past years, YouTube was the single most popular platform teenagers used — 90% said they watched videos on the site, down slightly from 95% in 2022. Nearly three-quarters said they visit YouTube every day. There was a slight downward trend in several popular apps teens used. For instance, 63% of teens said they used TikTok, down from 67% and Snapchat slipped to 55% from 59%. This small decline could be due to pandemic-era restrictions easing up and kids having more time to see friends in person, but it’s not enough to be truly meaningful . X saw the biggest decline among teenage users. Only 17% of teenagers said they use X, down from 23% in 2022, the year Elon Musk bought the platform. Reddit held steady at 14%. About 6% of teenagers said they use Threads, Meta’s answer to X that launched in 2023. The report comes as countries around the world are grappling with how to handle the effects of social media on young people’s well-being. Australia recently passed a law banning kids under 16 from social networks, though it’s unclear how it will be able to enforce the age limit — and whether it will come with unintended consequences such as isolating vulnerable kids from their peers. Related Articles National News | Texas sues New York doctor for prescribing abortion pills by telemedicine National News | American released from Syrian prison is flown out of the country, a US official says National News | How to protect your communications through encryption National News | Companies tighten security after a health care CEO’s killing leads to a surge of threats National News | Military service academies see drop in reported sexual assaults after alarming surge Meta’s messaging service WhatsApp was a rare exception in that it saw the number of teenage users increase, to 23% from 17% in 2022. Pew also asked kids how often they use various online platforms. Small but significant numbers said they are on them “almost constantly.” For YouTube, 15% reported constant use, for TikTok, 16% and for Snapchat, 13%. As in previous surveys, girls were more likely to use TikTok almost constantly while boys gravitated to YouTube. There was no meaningful gender difference in the use of Snapchat, Instagram and Facebook. Roughly a quarter of Black and Hispanic teens said they visit TikTok almost constantly, compared with just 8% of white teenagers. The report was based on a survey of 1,391 U.S. teens ages 13 to 17 conducted from Sept. 18 to Oct. 10, 2024.Sean 'Diddy' Combs' third bid to be released on bail won't be decided until next week

Trump wants to turn the clock on daylight saving time

Nearly half of American teenagers say they are online “constantly” despite concerns about the effects of social media and smartphones on their mental health, according to a new report published Thursday by the Pew Research Center. As in past years, YouTube was the single most popular platform teenagers used — 90% said they watched videos on the site, down slightly from 95% in 2022. Nearly three-quarters said they visit YouTube every day. There was a slight downward trend in several popular apps teens used. For instance, 63% of teens said they used TikTok, down from 67% and Snapchat slipped to 55% from 59%. This small decline could be due to pandemic-era restrictions easing up and kids having more time to see friends in person, but it’s not enough to be truly meaningful . X saw the biggest decline among teenage users. Only 17% of teenagers said they use X, down from 23% in 2022, the year Elon Musk bought the platform. Reddit held steady at 14%. About 6% of teenagers said they use Threads, Meta’s answer to X that launched in 2023. The report comes as countries around the world are grappling with how to handle the effects of social media on young people’s well-being. Australia recently passed a law banning kids under 16 from social networks, though it’s unclear how it will be able to enforce the age limit — and whether it will come with unintended consequences such as isolating vulnerable kids from their peers. Related Articles National News | Texas sues New York doctor for prescribing abortion pills by telemedicine National News | American released from Syrian prison is flown out of the country, a US official says National News | How to protect your communications through encryption National News | Companies tighten security after a health care CEO’s killing leads to a surge of threats National News | Military service academies see drop in reported sexual assaults after alarming surge Meta’s messaging service WhatsApp was a rare exception in that it saw the number of teenage users increase, to 23% from 17% in 2022. Pew also asked kids how often they use various online platforms. Small but significant numbers said they are on them “almost constantly.” For YouTube, 15% reported constant use, for TikTok, 16% and for Snapchat, 13%. As in previous surveys, girls were more likely to use TikTok almost constantly while boys gravitated to YouTube. There was no meaningful gender difference in the use of Snapchat, Instagram and Facebook. Roughly a quarter of Black and Hispanic teens said they visit TikTok almost constantly, compared with just 8% of white teenagers. The report was based on a survey of 1,391 U.S. teens ages 13 to 17 conducted from Sept. 18 to Oct. 10, 2024.

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Thousands of Syrians celebrate in central Damascus during first Friday prayers since Assad's fall DAMASCUS (AP) — Thousands of Syrians have celebrated in Umayyad Square, the largest in Damascus, after the first Muslim Friday prayers following the ouster of President Bashar Assad. The leader of the insurgency that toppled Assad, Ahmad al-Sharaa, appeared in a video message in which he congratulated “the great Syrian people for the victory of the blessed revolution.” Meanwhile, U.S. Secretary of State Antony Blinken said in the Turkish capital of Ankara that there was “broad agreement” between Turkey and the United States on what they would like to see in Syria. The top U.S. diplomat also called for an “inclusive and non-sectarian" interim government. American released from Syrian prison is flown out of the country, a US official says WASHINGTON (AP) — The U.S. military has transported an American who was imprisoned in Syria for seven months out of the country. That's according to a U.S. official, who says Travis Timmerman was flown out on a U.S. military helicopter. Timmerman, 29, told The Associated Press he had gone to Syria on a Christian pilgrimage and was not ill-treated while in Palestine Branch, a notorious detention facility operated by Syrian intelligence. He said he was freed by “the liberators who came into the prison and knocked the door down (of his cell) with a hammer.” Nancy Pelosi hospitalized after she 'sustained an injury' from fall on official trip to Luxembourg WASHINGTON (AP) — Former House Speaker Nancy Pelosi has been hospitalized after she “sustained an injury” during an official engagement in Luxembourg, according to a spokesman. Pelosi is 84. She was in Europe to mark the 80th anniversary of the Battle of the Bulge in World War II. Her spokesman, Ian Krager, did not describe the nature of her injury or give any additional details, but a person familiar with the incident said that Pelosi tripped and fell while at an event with the other members of Congress. The person requested anonymity to discuss the fall because they were not authorized to speak about it publicly. Some in seafood industry see Trump as fishermen's friend, but tariffs could make for pricier fish PORTLAND, Maine (AP) — The incoming administration of President-elect Donald Trump is likely to bring big changes to seafood, one of the oldest sectors of the U.S. economy. Some in the industry believe the returning president will be more responsive to its needs. Economic analysts paint a more complicated picture, as they fear Trump’s pending trade hostilities with major trading partners Canada and China could make an already pricy kind of protein more expensive. Conservationists also fear Trump’s emphasis on deregulation could jeopardize fish stocks already in peril. But many in the commercial fishing and seafood processing industries said they expect Trump to allow fishing in protected areas and crack down on offshore wind expansion. Russia targets Ukrainian infrastructure with a massive attack by cruise missiles and drones KYIV, Ukraine (AP) — Russia has launched a massive aerial attack against Ukraine. Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy says Russia fired 93 cruise and ballistic missiles and almost 200 drones in Friday's bombardments. He says it is one of the heaviest bombardments of the country’s energy sector since Russia’s full-scale invasion almost three years ago. He says Ukrainian defenses shot down 81 missiles, including 11 cruise missiles that were intercepted by F-16 warplanes provided by Western allies earlier this year. Zelenskyy renewed his plea for international unity against Russian President Vladimir Putin. But uncertainty surrounds how the war might unfold next year. President-elect Donald Trump has vowed to end the war and has thrown into doubt whether vital U.S. military support for Kyiv will continue. Veteran Daniel Penny, acquitted in NYC subway chokehold, will join Trump's suite at football game FORT LAUDERDALE, Fla. (AP) — A military veteran who choked an agitated New York subway rider and was acquitted of homicide this week has been invited by Vice President-elect JD Vance to join Donald Trump’s suite at the Army-Navy football game on Saturday. Daniel Penny was cleared of criminally negligent homicide in Jordan Neely’s 2023 death. A more serious manslaughter charge was dismissed last week. Vance served in the Marine Corps and had commented on the acquittal earlier this week. He said that “justice was done in this case” and Penny should never have been prosecuted. New Jersey governor wants more federal resources for probe into drone sightings TOMS RIVER, N.J. (AP) — New Jersey Gov. Phil Murphy has asked the Biden administration to put more resources into the ongoing investigation of mysterious drone sightings being reported in the state and other parts of the region. Murphy, a Democrat, made the request in a letter Thursday, noting that state and local law enforcement remain “hamstrung” by existing laws and policies in their efforts to successfully counteract any nefarious drone activity. Murphy and other officials say there is no evidence that the drones pose a national security or a public safety threat. A state lawmaker says up to 180 aircraft have been reported to authorities since Nov. 18. About 3 in 10 are highly confident in Trump on Cabinet, spending or military oversight: AP-NORC poll WASHINGTON (AP) — Americans may have elected Donald Trump to a second term in November, but that doesn’t mean they have high confidence in his ability to choose well-qualified people for his Cabinet or effectively manage government spending, the military and the White House. That's according to a new poll from the AP-NORC Center for Public Affairs Research. About half of U.S. adults are “not at all confident” in Trump’s ability to appoint well-qualified people for high-level government positions. Only about 3 in 10 are “extremely” or “very” confident that Trump will pick qualified people to serve in his administration. President Macron names centrist ally Bayrou as France's next prime minister PARIS (AP) — French President Emmanuel Macron has named centrist ally François Bayrou as prime minister, after a historic parliamentary vote ousted the previous government last week. The 73-year-old is a crucial partner in Macron’s centrist alliance and has been a well-known figure in French politics for decades. His political experience is seen as key in efforts to restore stability as no single party holds a majority in the National Assembly. Bayrou was recently cleared in a case relating to embezzlement of European Parliament funds. His predecessor resigned last week following a no-confidence vote prompted by budget disputes in the parliament, leaving France without a functioning government. Macron vowed last week to remain in office until his term ends in 2027. Yankees to get closer Devin Williams from Brewers for Nestor Cortes, Caleb Durbin, AP source says NEW YORK (AP) — A person familiar with the trade tells The Associated Press that the New York Yankees have agreed to acquire All-Star closer Devin Williams from the Milwaukee Brewers for left-hander Nestor Cortes, infield prospect Caleb Durbin and cash. A 30-year-old right-hander, Williams is eligible for free agency after the 2025 season. He was diagnosed during spring training with two stress fractures in his back and didn’t make his season debut until July 28.Shoplifting is a growing blight on brick-and-mortar retailers globally and across the state, and San Francisco’s stores are no exception. Brazen criminals feel they can shoplift by day or break-and-enter at night, typically without fear of arrest or reprisals. The closure of Bayside Market is a notable recent example , but there are many more, and with stores operating on knife-edge margins, competing against online stores with few such concerns, the next theft could be the last. With little help from over-stretched police, despite a recent 911 response center $9 million renovation , and unresponsive politicians, stores have to take their own preventative steps. Larceny rates, which includes shoplifting, have been on the rise for years in San Francisco, despite a recent dip . Beyond more barriers and security guards, retailers aim to tilt the battle in their favor, replacing current security systems with smart and AI-powered systems. These improve on traditional models by being able to differentiate between suspicious and normal behavior. They can identify repeat offenders through facial ID, and other methods since many thieves wear hoods or masks, such as their clothing or walking gait. In grocery stores, AI is already used at self-checkouts in Walmart to monitor people “fake-scanning” high value goods and trying to escape without paying. Linked camera systems can follow and link criminals to their vehicles through license plate recognition. And in the integrated Internet of Things smart systems of the near future, they could track them through related big data services, identifying their mobile devices as they move, or even social media posts (not all criminals are particularly smart, after all). The question of privacy remains an obvious concern for shoppers. And, despite the recent state political opposition toward AI safety legislation, AI-powered security cameras are being rolled out around San Francisco stores today to save their stores for tomorrow. For those facing crime today, AI security systems and cameras help reduce the workload on the operators, alerting them to suspicious activity automatically. That means security teams can spend more time on the floor, being guided to incidents by the AI. Artificial intelligence can also perform behavior analysis that identifies and tracks suspicious activity, such as people loitering in one part of a store, or unusual movements like an accomplice trying to divert staff attention so the criminal can act unseen. Additional benefits of AI include the camera’s ability to identify the sound of breaking glass or gunshots and alert security teams and staff to the safest course of action, and call the police automatically. Beyond crime, an additional benefit of AI is footfall monitoring tools that can identify choke points or empty zones in the store, helping improve layouts for security, safety, and to improve sales. While the cost of a new AI security system for a large store can be substantial, the cost can be offset by lower insurance premiums, reduced crime, improved recovery rates, and greater visitor numbers as the store becomes a safer place. While crime continues largely unabated all shoppers are used to seeing cameras and their faces on screens by the tills. For stores, large and small, the arrival of AI comes as an invisible addition, but one that can improve their chances of survival and help drive growth through a range of AI-powered services. As mentioned at the start of this piece, shoplifting is a global problem, but retailers around the world are already seeing the benefits of AI in action. Across California and the wider US, Sam’s Club is installing AI-powered cameras in a trial to prevent shoplifting. It checks photos of their basket or cart against what they paid for at the checkout. British retail chain Co-op is using it in multiple stores to detect if someone has left without paying for an item, or whether someone has entered with a concealed weapon. And closer to home, a Chicago store reported a 50% drop in theft after installing AI-powered security cameras that monitor people making attempts to pocket or conceal items before leaving the store without paying. Given the distressed state of many malls, strip malls, and even high-end outlets, AI, already used successfully in medicine, insurance and many other areas of our lives is coming to a store near you to help prevent crime and keep the store alive, something that most shoppers will welcome. *The San Francisco Examiner newsroom and editorial were not involved in the creation of this content.

Michigan's Top WR Enters Transfer Portal Amid Coaching ChangeMAP Meeting Evolves into MedSpa Pro, Builds Momentum for Record-Breaking 2025

Seattle (7-5) at Arizona (6-6) Sunday, 4:05 p.m. EST, CBS BetMGM NFL Odds: Cardinals by 2 1/2. Series record: Seahawks lead 28-22-1. Against the spread: Seahawks 5-6-1, Cardinals 8-4. Last meeting: Seahawks beat Cardinals 16-6 on Nov. 24, 2024, in Seattle. Last week: Seahawks beat Chargers, 26-21; Cardinals lost to Vikings, 23-22. Seahawks offense: overall (16), rush (28), pass (2), scoring (15). Seahawks defense: overall (18), rush (21), pass (12), scoring (12). Cardinals offense: overall (11), rush (6), pass (22), scoring (17). Cardinals defense: overall (17), rush (13), pass (18), scoring (11). Turnover differential: Seahawks minus-6, Cardinals minus-1. DT Leonard Williams has been one of the most dominant players in the league over the past two weeks. Williams had 2 1/2 sacks, four tackles for loss and three quarterback hits two weeks ago against the Cardinals. Williams sacked Aaron Rodgers twice and scored his first career touchdown on a 92-yard pick-6. QB Kyler Murray has had some good moments over the past two games and completed 31 of 45 passes for 260 yards and a touchdown against the Vikings. But he also threw two interceptions in the fourth quarter which proved costly. QB Geno Smith vs. Arizona's defense. Smith has had another solid season and now he'll face an Arizona defense that's been vastly improved over the past 1 1/2 months. The Cardinals have been much more productive in the pass rush with 23 sacks over the past six games. That ranks third in the NFL over that span. Coach Mike Macdonald said he is optimistic that P Michael Dickson (back spasms) will be able to play this weekend, but bringing in another punter this week is “on the table.”.. LB Uchenna Nwosu has a chance to play this week. Nwosu missed the first four games of the season with a knee injury, then injured his thigh in his first game back in Week 5, and has been on injured reserve since. ... The Cardinals are relatively healthy. DLs Darius Robinson (calf) and Dante Stills (back) have been limited in practice this week. The Seahawks have won six straight games in the series going back to 2022. The Cardinals last won 23-13 on Nov. 21, 2021. The Cardinals haven't won at home against the Seahawks since 2020. The Seahawks' next win will be the 400th in franchise history. ... Since Week 9, Seattle’s defense ranks fifth in the NFL with 17.5 points allowed per game, 299 yards allowed per game, and 84.3 rushing yards allowed per game, while ranking sixth in the league with 18.8 first downs allowed. ... The Seahawks have two pick-6s in the past two games, the first time the team has done so since 2012. ... The Seahawks have held three straight opponents to under 300 yards, and fewer than 100 rushing yards. ... Seattle has outscored its opponents by 37 points in the final two minutes of halves this season, the best in the NFL. .. WR DK Metcalf needs one receiving TD to pass Steve Largent for the most in a player’s first six seasons in franchise history with 47. ... Smith needs one 300-yard game to tie Russell Wilson for the most 300-yard games in a single season in franchise history with five. ... WR Jaxon Smith-Njigba Needs 171 yards for his first 1,000-yard season, and to become the 10th player in franchise history to reach that mark. ... Arizona has won three straight games at home. The Cardinals outscored those opponents 77-30 while scoring nine touchdowns and allowing none. ... TE Trey McBride has caught 12 passes in two straight games, which is the first time a tight end has had at least 12 receptions in two straight games in NFL history. ... Arizona's six losses have come to teams with a combined 55-18 record this season entering Week 14. ... S Budda Baker has 114 tackles this season, which ranks sixth in the league. ... McBride's caught 73 passes this season. He needs just nine more catches over the next five games to break his franchise record for a tight end. ... WR Marvin Harrison Jr. has caught seven TD passes this season, which leads all NFL rookies. ... The Cardinals have been flagged for 61 penalties this season, which is the fewest in the NFL. But the team was flagged 10 times in last week's loss to the Vikings. Arizona's defense is a strong play at home. The Cardinals are giving up just 17 points per game at State Farm Stadium, which is second in the league behind Pittsburgh. AP NFL: https://apnews.com/hub/nflCenter for Vein Restoration Data Breach Exposes Personal Information: Murphy Law Firm Investigates Legal Claims

Lululemon CEO sees progress in company's efforts to address past lack of newness

 

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2025-01-12
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Share Tweet Share Share Email Anime lovers, rejoice! The world of anime streaming has expanded beyond your typical options. Aniwatch was once a go-to platform for countless fans, offering a vast library of shows and user-friendly features. But as the landscape evolves, many are left wondering where to turn next . With so many alternatives available in 2024, it’s time to explore what else is out there. Whether you’re seeking the latest episodes or hidden gems from the past, this guide will help you find the best spots to watch your favorite series. From thrilling action titles to heartwarming slice-of-life stories, there’s no shortage of choices awaiting you. Let’s dive into some fantastic AniWatch alternatives that can elevate your anime-watching experience! What Made AniWatch Popular? AniWatch gained traction due to its user-friendly interface. Navigating through vast libraries of anime is a breeze, catering to both newcomers and seasoned fans alike. Another significant factor was its wide selection of titles. From classic series to the latest releases, AniWatch has something for everyone. This diversity attracted a dedicated viewer base eager for variety. Additionally, regular updates keep viewers engaged. New episodes are often available shortly after airing in Japan, allowing fans to stay current without delay. The community aspect also played a role in its popularity. Users could connect with fellow anime enthusiasts through comments and discussions, creating an interactive experience that enhanced engagement. The ad-free viewing option provided by aniwatch.org.lv solidified its appeal. Many users appreciate uninterrupted streaming while enjoying their favorite shows—something that isn’t always easy to find on other platforms. The Best AniWatch Alternatives in 2024 If you’re searching for the best AniWatch alternatives in 2024, look no further than 9anime. This platform offers a vast library of anime titles across genres. Its user-friendly interface makes it easy to find your favorite shows. Gogoanime is another excellent option. With its extensive collection and reliable streaming quality, you’ll be hooked from the start. The site frequently updates with new content, ensuring you never run out of things to watch. Crunchyroll also deserves a mention. Although it’s a paid service, its exclusive simulcasts and high-quality streams justify the subscription fee for many devoted fans. Don’t overlook Funimation either! Known for its English dubbed content, this platform caters to those who prefer watching anime in their native language while still delivering an impressive selection. These platforms provide diverse viewing experiences that rival AniWatch’s offerings without compromising on quality or accessibility. Comparison of features and user experience between AniWatch and the alternatives Feature/Aspect AniWatch 9anime Gogoanime User Interface Streamlined and user-friendly, easy navigation through extensive libraries. Functional, with multiple streaming options for each title but less polished UI. Simple interface, focuses on usability but can feel cluttered due to ads. Streaming Quality Consistent quality with limited server options. Multiple streaming links for each title, allowing users to choose quality and server. Offers decent streaming quality but less consistent than AniWatch. Ad Experience Mostly ad-free for a seamless experience. Ad-supported; ads can be intrusive without a blocker. Ad-supported but has fewer ads compared to similar free platforms. Strengths – Easy to use. – Focuses on trending and new anime. – Multiple quality options. – Engaged community. – Extensive older title collection. – Fewer ads. – Fast uploads. Weaknesses – Limited focus on older or niche genres. – Minimal community features. – Ads can detract from experience. – Interface is less polished than AniWatch. – Interface can feel cluttered. – Streaming quality may vary across titles. Benefits of using these alternative websites for streaming anime Alternative anime streaming websites offer a treasure trove of benefits that cater to diverse viewer preferences. Access is often free, allowing fans to enjoy their favorite series without the burden of subscription fees. Many alternatives feature extensive libraries that include both mainstream and niche titles. This variety can introduce viewers to hidden gems they might not find elsewhere. User-friendly interfaces are common among these platforms, making it easy for both seasoned watchers and newcomers to navigate content effortlessly. Additionally, some sites provide options for different video qualities, ensuring a smooth viewing experience regardless of internet speed. Frequent updates ensure that the latest episodes are available soon after airing in Japan. Anime enthusiasts appreciate this timely access as it keeps them connected with the community buzz surrounding new releases. Free vs. Paid Alternatives: Which is Best for You? When it comes to choosing between free and paid anime streaming alternatives, your viewing habits are key. Free platforms like 9anime and Gogoanime offer a treasure trove of content at no cost. They often have extensive libraries that appeal to casual viewers or those just starting their anime journey. However, these sites can come with drawbacks such as ads and lower video quality. You might also find delays in episode uploads or inconsistent availability of newer releases. On the other hand, paid services typically provide a smoother experience. With subscription options, you’re likely to enjoy ad-free browsing, better resolution, and early access to popular shows. Services like Crunchyroll or Funimation invest in their libraries too. Choosing the right option ultimately depends on how serious you are about watching anime regularly versus casually enjoying an occasional series now and then. Conclusion: The future of anime streaming platforms The landscape of anime streaming is constantly evolving. As viewers seek more options, platforms like AniWatch have paved the way for numerous alternatives to emerge. With increasing competition from sites such as 9anime and GogoAnime, fans are now spoiled for choice. Looking forward, the future may see a blend of free and paid services catering to diverse audiences. Innovations in technology could enhance user experiences through better interfaces, personalized recommendations, and higher quality streams. The community aspect will likely grow stronger too; social features enabling viewers to connect over shared interests can make watching anime even more enjoyable. As licensing issues continue to shape what’s available where, it’s essential for fans to stay informed about reliable sources that respect creators while providing access to beloved series. Whether you prefer free websites or are willing to invest in premium subscriptions, there will always be an avenue open for discovering new content. The world of anime streaming remains vibrant with endless possibilities ahead. Embracing change will allow users not just to watch their favorite shows but also engage with the broader culture surrounding them—ensuring that this dynamic medium continues thriving well into the future. Related Items: Alternatives , Watch Anime Share Tweet Share Share Email Recommended for you Top 5 Free Anime Websites Online 5 Alternatives to Overwatch 2 For Gamers Dramacool: Exploring the Benefits of an Asian Drama Paradise CommentsWASHINGTON , Nov. 21, 2024 /PRNewswire/ -- Last night, Future Caucus held its seventh annual awards at the Arlo Washington DC, in recognition of lawmakers and activists who embody the organization's mission to transcend toxic polarization. The award honors Gen Z and millennial leaders actively advancing bipartisan policies that address critical issues facing Americans. "The young leaders we honor tonight are not only persevering through systemic and personal obstacles, but excelling," said Future Caucus president and CEO Layla Zaidane . "They're showing us what's possible when the work of governing is rooted in empathy and collaboration rather than division, and how good, inclusive policy also turns out to be pretty good politics." The 2024 Rising Star Award was presented to two lawmakers: State Asm. Alex Bores (D-NY-73) and State Rep. Tory Blew (R-KS-112) , now Sen.-elect for the state's 33rd Senate District. Both serve as co-chairs of their respective State Future Caucus . "I'm honored to receive this award for work that prioritizes delivering results for New Yorkers," said Bores. "Creating a more effective, responsive state government requires everyone, and I'm proud of what we have achieved together to modernize New York's services and protect our democracy." "It's an honor to receive this recognition for bipartisan work that has been my focus from day one," said Blew. "At its core, this role is about listening and finding common ground that serves Kansans across the board, especially the young people who will define our future. I'm grateful to Future Caucus for championing this collaborative vision." Future Caucus presented the Cherisse Eatmon Collective Impact Award to Pennsylvania Future Caucus co-chairs State Rep. Justin Fleming (D-PA-105) and State Rep. Thomas Kutz (R-PA-87) . " Pennsylvania's young people and families are facing challenges that demand bipartisan solutions," said Fleming. "This award is a testament to the work we've done as a caucus and as colleagues, to bring together a diverse set of voices and put real, impactful legislation into action for our communities." "Pennsylvanians are facing challenges that require common sense solutions," said Kutz, who accepted the award in absentia. "Pragmatic legislators must come together to address rising inflation, the cost of housing and child care, and the rising costs of higher education. I'm honored to work alongside colleagues in Harrisburg who are equally committed to addressing these issues. This award is a testament to the bipartisan work we have taken on this session, and I'm eager to continue that work in the upcoming legislative session." The organization also presented its Generational Changemaker Award to activist and actor Sophia Bush , for her efforts to promote voter education and civic engagement, and to businesswoman and socialite Paris Hilton , for her commitment to criminal justice reform and accountability for youth residential facilities. "What makes this gathering so significant—and what makes the work of Future Caucus so vital—is the understanding that democracy is bigger than any one candidate, or the outcome of any single election," said Bush. "It's a commitment that, if honored and fought for, transcends wins and losses, uniting us around the shared responsibility to protect and strengthen our democratic institutions. And that is a commitment I believe in." "I'm accepting this award as a survivor and advocate, and more importantly, as a voice for every child suffering in silence. I've turned my pain into purpose by fighting for policy change, from passing 10 state laws to introducing the federal bipartisan Stop Institutional Child Abuse Act and testifying on behalf of foster youth in Congress," said Hilton, who accepted the award by video. "I'm so proud to stand with all the amazing lawmakers in this community who are dedicated to changing the world. I'm confident that together, we'll make groundbreaking progress in creating a world where everyone is supported, protected, and empowered." Rep.-elect Sarah McBride (D-DE) gave the evening's keynote address . As a Delaware state senator, McBride was founding co-chair of the Delaware Future Caucus. "The promise of our Constitution is only possible when we respect our differences and solve our disagreements through conversation and collaboration," said McBride. "We know that the divisions and nastiness that we too often see nationally must not—and does not have to—be our new normal. A different kind of politics is possible: a politics of hope, not of hate; of grace, not of grievance; and of progress, not of pettiness. That is our charge as the next generation of Future Caucus leaders." Future Caucus is a nonpartisan, nonprofit organization that empowers young elected officials in Congress and state legislatures to bridge the partisan divide. By supporting innovative policymaking and fostering collaboration, we help Gen Z and millennial leaders drive positive change and promote a political culture rooted in empathy and solutions. To learn more, visit www.futurecaucus.org . View original content to download multimedia: https://www.prnewswire.com/news-releases/young-republican-and-democratic-lawmakers-and-activists-receive-political-bridge-building-award-302313634.html SOURCE Future Caucus

The are back from their bye this Sunday and will host the two-time defending champion in one of their toughest matchups on the schedule. Kansas City's defense is fifth in yards allowed and eighth in points allowed this season. They're especially stout against the run, allowing the third-fewest yards per game in the NFL. The Panthers' offense had one of their better performances last time out against the Giants in Munich. The Chiefs are a much better defense but the Panthers will be getting some reinforcements in the backfield this week to help against the defending champions. Rookie running back was activated from the injured reserve list on Nov. 6 and that move required the Panthers to activate him within the next 21 days. Here's the latest on his status for Week 12. Yes. Both Carolina coach Dave Canales and Brooks confirmed on Monday that he will make his NFL debut on Sunday against the Kansas City Chiefs. "I'm excited just to be able to get back on the field and play a game that I love," Brooks said. "It's truly a blessing just to be able to get back out there and be 100% and be able to play football again." rookie RB Jonathon Brooks on his long-awaited debut, Chuba Hubbard getting paid and more: — Mike Kaye (@mike_e_kaye) Canales clarified his role for Sunday on Friday afternoon. Chuba Hubbard, the NFL's fourth-leading rusher entering Week 12, will remain the starter but Brooks will not be limited in any way. If Hubbard gets injured or has to miss time for any reason, Brooks will step up to be the lead back. "[Hubbard] will go but we'll get Brooks out there," Canales said. Dave Canales says Jonathon Brooks will not be on a pitch count on Sunday. — Sheena Quick (@Sheena_Marie3) With Hubbard in the lead role, the Panthers are averaging more than 100 rushing yards per game. Hubbard's scored six rushing touchdowns in addition to his 818 yards this season. Here's how the team ranks league-wide: 110.0 (24th) : 4.6 (T-9th) 8 (T-17th) Hubbard will remain the No. 1 running back this week with Brooks behind him. Here's how the rest of the depth chart looks: Chuba Hubbard Jonathon Brooks Running backs Dillon Johnson and Mike Boone are also signed to the Panthers' practice squad.

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CARSON, Calif. — Joseph Paintsil and Dejan Joveljic scored in the first half, and the LA Galaxy won their record sixth MLS Cup championship with a 2-1 victory over the New York Red Bulls on Saturday. After striking twice in the first 13 minutes of the final with goals from their star forwards, the Galaxy nursed their lead through a scoreless second half to raise their league's biggest trophy for the first time since 2014. MLS' most successful franchise struggled through most of the ensuing decade, even finishing 26th in the 29-team league last year. But the Galaxy turned everything around this season with a high-scoring new lineup that finished second in the Western Conference and then streaked through the playoffs with a whopping 18 goals in five games to win another crown. Sean Nealis scored for the seventh-seeded Red Bulls, whose improbable charge through the playoffs ended one win shy of its first Cup championship. With the league's youngest roster, New York fell just short of becoming the lowest-seeded team to win MLS' playoff tournament under first-year German coach Sandro Schwarz. Galaxy goalkeeper John McCarthy made four saves to win his second MLS title in three seasons. He was the MVP of the 2022 MLS Cup Final for the Galaxy's crosstown rival, Los Angeles FC. The Galaxy won this title without perhaps their most important player. Riqui Puig, the playmaking midfielder from Barcelona who ran their offense impressively all season long, tore a ligament in his knee last week in the Western Conference final. Puig watched the game in a suit, but his teammates hadn't forgotten him: After his replacement, Gastón Brugman, set up LA's opening goal with a superb pass, Paintsil held up Puig's jersey to their fans during the celebration. Paintsil put the Galaxy ahead in the ninth minute when he ran onto that sublime pass from Brugman and pounded home his 14th MLS goal — including four in the playoffs — in the Ghanaian forward's outstanding first season. Just four minutes later, Joveljic sprinted past four New York defenders and chipped home the 21st goal of his outstanding year as the Galaxy's striker. Nealis got New York on the scoreboard in the 28th minute when he volleyed home a ball that got loose in LA's penalty area after a corner. The Galaxy's usually shaky defense gave up another handful of good chances before reaching halftime with a tenuous lead. The second half was lively, but scoreless. Red Bulls captain Emil Forsberg hit the outside of the post in the 72nd minute, while Gabriel Pec and Galaxy substitute Marco Reus nearly converted chances a few moments later. The ball got loose again in the Galaxy's penalty area in the third minute of extra time, but two Red Bulls couldn't finish. The Galaxy bench rushed onto the field and prematurely celebrated a victory in the seventh minute of injury time, only to be herded back off for another 30 seconds of play. The Galaxy finished 17-0-3 this season at their frequently renamed suburban stadium, where the sellout crowd of 26,812 for the final included several robust cheering sections of traveling Red Bulls supporters hoping to see their New Jersey-based club's breakthrough on MLS' biggest stage. The Galaxy's Greg Vanney became the fourth coach to win an MLS title with two clubs. The former Galaxy player also won it all with Toronto in 2017. The club famous for employing global stars from David Beckham and Zlatan Ibrahimovic to Robbie Keane and Javier "Chicharito" Hernández rebuilt itself this season with lesser-known young talents from around the world. The Galaxy signed Pec from Brazil and the Ghanaian Paintsil out of Belgium, and the duo combined with incumbent Serbian striker Joveljic to form a potent attack that could outscore almost any MLS opponent. But the Galaxy also relied heavily on Puig, their Catalan catalyst and one of MLS' best players. Puig stayed in last week's game after injuring his knee, and he even delivered the decisive pass to Joveljic for the game's only goal. Get local news delivered to your inbox!

Mumbai, Dec 24 (IANS): A day after Leader of the Opposition in Lok Sabha Rahul Gandhi’s visit to Maharashtra, the state unit organised full-throated protest marches in multiple districts demanding the removal of Home Minister Amit Shah for his recent remarks on Bharat Ratna Dr B R Ambedkar, here on Tuesday. The protests were called ‘Dr Babasaheb Ambedkar Samman Morcha’ and saw the participation of thousands of party workers and common citizens who trooped out to condemn what they termed as the Bharatiya Janata Party and Shah’s “insults” to the Chief Architect of the Indian Constitution. Besides party workers, the protests saw several MPs, MLAs, district party heads, state-level leaders, and the chiefs of various frontal organizations, joining the stir across the state. The participants carried banners, placards, and posters condemning BJP-Shah, some sported copies of the Constitution and they marched or took out bicycle or motorcycle processions. “We have taken an aggressive stance on the issue and demand that Shah must tender an apology to the whole country for insulting Vishwa Ratna Dr Ambedkar. We also call upon Prime Minister Narendra Modi to remove Shah from the Union Cabinet for his slurs on Dr Ambedkar,” said state Congress President Nana F. Patole. In Latur, MP Dr Shivaji Kalge, former minister Amit V. Deshmukh and scores took out a motorcycle rally from Dr B R Ambedkar Park to the Collectorate and submitted a memorandum to the Collector. City and district leaders led by MP Ravindra V. Chavan, district chief B R Kadam, city president Abdul Sattar and others including many women joined the protests and demonstrations in Nanded. MP Pratibha Dhanorkar along with former AAP district chief Subhash Dhote and others took out a procession ranting slogans against Shah-BJP in Chandrapur. Amravati witnessed a long procession led by state leaders Bhaiya Pawar, Kishore Borkar, former city Mayor Vilas Ingore, Milind Chimote and district chief Bablu Shekhawat, raising slogans slamming the Centre. Akola Congress staged a march to the Collectorate led by MLA Sajid Khan Pathan, city chief Dr Prashant Wankhade, former legislators and other party office-bearers taking part with a large number of workers and commoners. In Buldhana, senior leaders like Laxmanrao Ghumre, Babasaheb Bhonde, Santosh Ambekar, Ganeshrao Patil, Dattabhau Kakas and others marched to the district administration office and submitted a memorandum to the Collector. The Congress took out a vociferous protest march in Palghar and raised slogans seeking an apology and resignation of Shah, and asking the PM to drop him from the cabinet. The protest marches and agitations will be continued in different districts in the state on Friday (After the Christmas holiday), said Jalna party chief Rajabhau Deshmukh and MLA Kailash Gorantyal. The state Congress had last week announced a series of agitations in the state and elsewhere to condemn Shah’s remarks on Dr B R Ambedkar which has angered all political parties and the society, particularly the Dalits.

BEIJING , Dec. 14, 2024 /PRNewswire/ -- Baijiayun Group Ltd ("Baijiayun" or the "Company") (NASDAQ: RTC), a one-stop AI video solution provider, today announced it was honored with the title of "Exclusive Member Unit". In recent days, the First Council of the Artificial Intelligence Education Professional Committee of the Beijing Educational Informationization Industry Alliance and the 2024 Symposium on Artificial Intelligence Empowering the Innovative Development of Primary and Secondary Schools were successfully held at the Affiliated Experimental School of Beijing Institute of Technology. Nearly 200 renowned experts, leaders of education bureaus, principals of primary and secondary schools, front-line educators, and representatives of artificial intelligence technical support units from Beijing , Tianjin , Hebei , Liaoning and other places attended the conference. This conference was hosted by the Beijing Educational Informationization Industry Alliance, Baijiayun was also invited to participate in the conference and , together with many well-known enterprises in the industry, and won the honor of "Exclusive Member Unit" of the Beijing Educational Informationization Industry Alliance. In the future, Baijiayun will work with the Beijing Educational Informationization Industry Alliance to continue to carry out research and promotion on educational informationization industry technologies across China , promote in-depth cooperation across disciplines, departments, and industries, jointly build an educational informationization development platform, create an industrial resource integration platform, an application service platform, and a technology transformation platform, share the fruits of development, give play to the supporting and leading role of educational informationization in educational modernization, and further promote the innovative development of the national education cause. About Baijiayun Group Ltd Baijiayun is a one-stop AI video solution provider with core expertise in SaaS/PaaS solutions. Baijiayun is committed to delivering reliable, high-quality video experiences across devices and localities and has grown rapidly since its inception in 2017. Premised on its industry-leading video-centric technologies, Baijiayun offers a wealth of video-centric technology solutions, including Video SaaS/PaaS, Video Cloud and Software, and Video AI and System Solutions. Baijiayun caters to the evolving communications and collaboration needs of enterprises of all sizes and industries. For more information, please visit ir.baijiayun.com . Safe Harbor Statement This press release contains certain "forward-looking statements." These statements are made under the "safe harbor" provisions of the U.S. Private Securities Litigation Reform Act of 1995. Statements that are not historical facts, including statements about the parties' perspectives and expectations, are forward-looking statements. The words "will," "expect," "believe," "estimate," "intend," and "plan" and similar expressions indicate forward-looking statements. Such forward-looking statements are inherently uncertain, and shareholders and other potential investors must recognize that actual results may differ materially from the expectations as a result of a variety of factors. Such forward-looking statements are based upon management's current expectations and include known and unknown risks, uncertainties, and other factors, many of which are hard to predict or control, that may cause the actual results, performance, or plans to differ materially from any future results, performance or plans expressed or implied by such forward-looking statements. The forward-looking information provided herein represents the Company's estimates as of the date of this press release, and subsequent events and developments may cause the Company's estimates to change. The Company specifically disclaims any obligation to update the forward-looking information in the future. Therefore, this forward-looking information should not be relied upon as representing the Company's estimates of its future financial performance as of any date subsequent to the date of this press release. A further list and description of risks and uncertainties can be found in the documents the Company has filed or furnished or may file or furnish with the U.S. Securities and Exchange Commission, which you are encouraged to read. Should one or more of these risks or uncertainties materialize, or should underlying assumptions prove incorrect, actual results may vary materially from those indicated or anticipated by such forward-looking statements. Accordingly, you are cautioned not to place undue reliance on these forward-looking statements. Forward-looking statements relate only to the date they were made, and the Company undertakes no obligation to update forward-looking statements to reflect events or circumstances after the date they were made except as required by law or applicable regulation. For investor and media enquiries, please contact: Company Contact: Ms. Fangfei Liu Chief Financial Officer, Baijiayun Group Ltd Phone: +86 25 8222 1596 Email: ir@baijiayun.com View original content: https://www.prnewswire.com/news-releases/baijiayun-was-honored-with-the-title-of-exclusive-member-unit-by-the-beijing-educational-informationization-industry-alliance-302331799.html SOURCE Baijiayun Group Ltd

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AP Business SummaryBrief at 4:36 p.m. ESTRuben Amorim has just had his Jose Mourinho moment to raise Man United hopes

 

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2025-01-13
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"Lorem ipsum dolor sit amet, consectetur adipiscing elit, sed do eiusmod tempor incididunt ut labore et dolore magna aliqua. Ut enim ad minim veniam, quis nostrud exercitation ullamco laboris nisi ut aliquip ex ea commodo consequat. Duis aute irure dolor in reprehenderit in voluptate velit esse cillum dolore eu fugiat nulla pariatur. Excepteur sint occaecat cupidatat non proident, sunt in culpa qui officia deserunt mollit anim id est laborum." Section 1.10.32 of "de Finibus Bonorum et Malorum", written by Cicero in 45 BC "Sed ut perspiciatis unde omnis iste natus error sit voluptatem accusantium doloremque laudantium, totam rem aperiam, eaque ipsa quae ab illo inventore veritatis et quasi architecto beatae vitae dicta sunt explicabo. Nemo enim ipsam voluptatem quia voluptas sit aspernatur aut odit aut fugit, sed quia consequuntur magni dolores eos qui ratione voluptatem sequi nesciunt. Neque porro quisquam est, qui dolorem ipsum quia dolor sit amet, consectetur, adipisci velit, sed quia non numquam eius modi tempora incidunt ut labore et dolore magnam aliquam quaerat voluptatem. Ut enim ad minima veniam, quis nostrum exercitationem ullam corporis suscipit laboriosam, nisi ut aliquid ex ea commodi consequatur? Quis autem vel eum iure reprehenderit qui in ea voluptate velit esse quam nihil molestiae consequatur, vel illum qui dolorem eum fugiat quo voluptas nulla pariatur?" 1914 translation by H. Rackham "But I must explain to you how all this mistaken idea of denouncing pleasure and praising pain was born and I will give you a complete account of the system, and expound the actual teachings of the great explorer of the truth, the master-builder of human happiness. No one rejects, dislikes, or avoids pleasure itself, because it is pleasure, but because those who do not know how to pursue pleasure rationally encounter consequences that are extremely painful. Nor again is there anyone who loves or pursues or desires to obtain pain of itself, because it is pain, but because occasionally circumstances occur in which toil and pain can procure him some great pleasure. To take a trivial example, which of us ever undertakes laborious physical exercise, except to obtain some advantage from it? But who has any right to find fault with a man who chooses to enjoy a pleasure that has no annoying consequences, or one who avoids a pain that produces no resultant pleasure?" 1914 translation by H. Rackham "But I must explain to you how all this mistaken idea of denouncing pleasure and praising pain was born and I will give you a complete account of the system, and expound the actual teachings of the great explorer of the truth, the master-builder of human happiness. No one rejects, dislikes, or avoids pleasure itself, because it is pleasure, but because those who do not know how to pursue pleasure rationally encounter consequences that are extremely painful. Nor again is there anyone who loves or pursues or desires to obtain pain of itself, because it is pain, but because occasionally circumstances occur in which toil and pain can procure him some great pleasure. To take a trivial example, which of us ever undertakes laborious physical exercise, except to obtain some advantage from it? But who has any right to find fault with a man who chooses to enjoy a pleasure that has no annoying consequences, or one who avoids a pain that produces no resultant pleasure?" To keep reading, please log in to your account, create a free account, or simply fill out the form below.MADRID (AP) — Spanish King Felipe VI used his traditional Christmas Eve speech to remember the victims of the catastrophic Valencia flash floods , and urged the country to remain calm despite public debates around hot-button issues such as immigration and housing affordability. In a pre-recorded speech that usually reviews the year's most relevant issues, Felipe said Spain “must never forget the pain and sadness" the flood have caused. The Oct. 29 floods killed more than 225 people in eastern Spain, damaging countless homes and leaving graveyards of cars piled on top of each other. In some towns, the heavy downpours that caused the floods dropped as much as a year's worth of rain in just eight hours. In early November, as Spaniards' shock at the wreckage turned into frustration, a political blame game began, directed especially at regional authorities who failed to send timely emergency alerts to cell phones on the day of the floods. The frustration of residents in hard-hit Paiporta near Valencia was on display when people tossed mud and shouted insults at the king and government officials in early November when they made their first visit to the town. “We have seen — and understood — the frustration, the pain, the impatience, the demands for greater and more effective coordination," Felipe said about how the disaster was managed, adding that he had asked that aid be sent to everyone who needed it. He also addressed the country's housing crunch and high rents, which have become a leading concern in this European Union country that is the eurozone's fourth-largest economy. Fast-rising rents are especially acute in cities like Barcelona and Madrid, where incomes have failed to keep up, especially for younger people in a country with chronically high unemployment. Felipe urged that “all the actors involved reflect” and "listen to each other” so that they facilitate bringing access to housing under “affordable conditions.” Spain's immigration debate should keep in mind the country's European partners and immigrants' countries of origin, Felipe said, warning that “the way in which we are able to address immigration ... will say a lot in the future about our principles and the quality of our democracy.” Felipe said Spain need to remain calm in the public sphere, even in the face of a “sometimes thunderous” contest in its politics. Suman Naishadham, The Associated Press

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Stock market today: S&P 500, Dow end at record as investors shake off tariff fears, digest Fed minutes

Kansas City Chiefs star Justin Reid gives local mother a new car as a Christmas gift READ MORE: Joe Burrow reveals reason he bought his linemen samurai swords By ERIC BLUM Published: 18:36 EST, 24 December 2024 | Updated: 18:43 EST, 24 December 2024 e-mail View comments Quarterbacks aren't the only ones in the NFL giving out generous Christmas gifts this holiday season, as Kansas City Chiefs star Justin Reid purchased a brand-new car for a local mother of six. Reid stopped by a local Ford dealership in Kansas in a Santa suit for his second annual 'Just-In-Time for the Holidays' event. The advertised portion of the night was giving more than 50 local children Christmas gifts. Then came the huge reveal for Bonnie Strutton, a new SUV, with her current car in the shop and one she considers a 'gas guzzler', per KCTV. As soon as Reid presented the new car to Strutton, she burst into tears. She only attended the event to have her children participate. 'I don’t even know what to say,' Strutton said. 'I’m speechless.' 'It’s just been one thing after another. This is such a blessing. Good things keep happening, you just have to keep doing the next right thing.' Kansas City Chiefs star Justin Reid purchased a brand-new car for a local mother of six Bonnie Strutton was speechless after the reveal with tears coming down her face last week It is unclear how Reid heard of Strutton and the struggles she has in her life. Yet, he did not hesitate to jump into action. Read More Miserable New York Jets get their first good news for the 2025 NFL season 'The same way she’s doing the next right thing, we wanted to do the next right thing and recognize her situation and to help her out with a brand-new vehicle,' Reid said. 'We’re all excited to be a part of Bonnie’s story, just to play a small piece in it. We’re excited to see her continue in her journey.' Strutton is also celebrating 30 months of sobriety this holiday season. The gift giving took place last week as Reid is now in Pennsylvania as the Chiefs make last-second preparations for Wednesday's game against the Pittsburgh Steelers. 'To have all my kids back in my life and this right here is going to be more of a connection than anybody could know,' Strutton said. 'Don’t give up on yourself. Don’t give up before the miracle happens because people do see you, they hear you, and they love you.' Kansas City Chiefs Share or comment on this article: Kansas City Chiefs star Justin Reid gives local mother a new car as a Christmas gift e-mail Add commentMolineux ruled out of NZ tour in Ashes concernCenter for Employment Opportunities Denver Named a Top 100 Nonprofit in North America, Awarded PepsiCo Foundation Community Impact Award

By Jack Phillips Contributing Writer The FBI and Department of Homeland Security responded to reports about drone sightings over the New Jersey area in the past several weeks, a phenomena that has raised alarm among local elected officials. In a statement issued Thursday evening, the FBI and DHS said the agencies “have no evidence at this time that the reported drone sightings pose a national security or public safety threat or have a foreign nexus.” “The FBI, DHS and our federal partners, in close coordination with the New Jersey State Police, continue to deploy personnel and technology to investigate this situation and confirm whether the reported drone flights are actually drones or are instead manned aircraft or otherwise inaccurate sightings,” the statement reads. Their statement did not go into more detail about the sightings in recent days. Several state and U.S. lawmakers in both New Jersey and New York have called on the federal government to release more information or take action regarding the drone sightings. In several interviews this week, Rep. Jeff Van Drew, R-New Jersey, warned that the drones may be Iranian in origin, which was denied by a Pentagon spokeswoman. White House national security spokesman John Kirby said Thursday that the drones do not pose a national security risk to the United States. On Thursday, Van Drew disputed the Pentagon’s statement about Iran being unconnected to the drone sightings, doubling down on his previous claim. He said “high-level” anonymous U.S. officials provided him with that information, which is why he is going public with it. That same day, Sens. Cory Booker, D-New Jersey, Andy Kim, D-New Jersey, Chuck Schumer, D-New York, and Kirsten Gillibrand, D-New York, sent a joint letter to DHS, the FBI, and the Federal Aviation Administration to brief them on drone activity over New Jersey and New York. “The potential safety and security risks posed by these drones in civilian areas is especially pertinent considering recent drone incursions at sensitive military sites in and outside of the continental United States over the past year,” they warned. Separately, Sen. Richard Blumenthal, D-Connecticut, told reporters that the drones should be “shot down, if necessary” and that the United States “should be doing some very urgent intelligence analysis and take them out of the skies, especially if they’re flying over airports or military bases.” “The lack of information is absolutely unacceptable,” the senator said Thursday. In their statement Thursday, FBI and DHS also cautioned that there have been “cases of mistaken identity” and that the drones might be “manned aircraft or facilities.” In the meantime, DHS and the FBI are supporting New Jersey state and local law enforcement with detection capabilities “but have not corroborated any of the reported visual sightings with electronic detection.” “To the contrary, upon review of available imagery, it appears that many of the reported sightings are actually manned aircraft, operating lawfully,” they said. “There are no reported or confirmed drone sightings in any restricted air space.” The FBI and DHS asserted that the two agencies “take seriously” any threats that could be posed by drones but stressed that officials “have uncovered no such malicious activity or intent at this stage” so far. “While there is no known malicious activity occurring in New Jersey,” the agencies said, “the reported sightings there do, however, highlight the insufficiency of current authorities.” Reports of drone sightings over the Garden State began in November, Van Drew and other New Jersey officials have said. In early 2023, a high-altitude balloon that originated from China flew hundreds of miles across North America, passing near sensitive military sites, U.S. officials said at the time. The U.S. Air Force ultimately shot down the balloon off the coast of South Carolina in early February of that year. Multiple other balloon sightings were reported since then, with the U.S. military shooting down a balloon over Lake Huron near Michigan in February 2023. The Associated Press contributed to this report.First-ever athlete and fan-owned network boasts 2,200 Fan Owners and 70+ superstar athlete investors and partners by the likes of Chris Paul , Travis Kelce , Dwayne Wade , Chiney Ogwumike, Kyrie Irving, Damian Lillard , Natasha Cloud , Alysha Clark , Carmelo Anthony , and many more LOS ANGELES , Dec. 20, 2024 /PRNewswire/ -- PlayersTV , the first athlete and fan-owned media company, today announced the acquisition of Cloud Media Center , an AI-driven sports adtech and media distribution company. This strategic year-end move boosts PlayersTV's reach to a total of 500 million monthly ad impressions, solidifying its position as a trailblazer in athlete-driven lifestyle entertainment while broadening its ability to connect with advertiser and inventory networks. PlayersTV empowers athletes to control their narratives while giving brands access to engagement opportunities with an expansive global audience. It is known for its groundbreaking athlete-fan ownership model, supported by more than 70 high-profile athlete investors and partners across the NFL, NBA, WNBA, and MLB, and a community of more than 2,200 Fan Owners (shareholders in the company). The network features high-profile athletes, including Travis Kelce , Chris Paul , Damian Lillard , Dwyane Wade , Chiney Ogwumike, Carmelo Anthony , Allen Iverson , Natasha Cloud , Kyrie Irving, Ken Griffey, Jr. , Vernon Davis , Austin Ekeler , DeAndre Jordan , CJ McCollum, AJ Andrews, Angel McCoughtry , Alysha Clark , and more. PlayersTV currently reaches more than 300 million households via OTT and CTV via DirecTV, YouTube TV, Sling TV, Amazon Fire TV, and Philo . Its proprietary ad network called Players360 generates an additional 500 million monthly ad impressions. Through the acquisition of Cloud Media Center, PlayersTV now owns technologies responsible for more than 1 billion combined monthly ad impressions. "This is a transformative moment for PlayersTV and the future of sports media," said Deron Guidrey , co-founder of PlayersTV. "The acquisition of Cloud Media Center catapults us into a new era of innovation, expanding our reach to an astounding 500 million monthly ad impressions. With cutting-edge AI technology now at the core of our operations, we are setting the gold standard for athlete-driven media, revolutionizing how athletes connect with fans and how brands engage with audiences worldwide. This is more than an acquisition, it's a declaration of our vision to lead the global sports media industry." PlayersTV Co-founder Collin Castellaw added, "This acquisition is a monumental step forward for our organization. By integrating Cloud Media Center's AI-driven tech we're significantly expanding our reach while revolutionizing how athletes and sports content is created, distributed and consumed. This is an exciting time for our company and the future of athlete media and sports media." Cloud Media Center's innovative platform brings state-of-the-art AI technology to PlayersTV, enabling more precise audience targeting, dynamic content distribution, and scalable adtech. With this acquisition, PlayersTV is poised to deliver highly personalized and impactful content experiences, meeting the growing demand for athlete-centered stories and authentic fan connections. About PlayersTV PlayersTV is the first-ever athlete-owned media network and content provider. As the premier athlete lifestyle content destination, PlayersTV empowers athletes to own their stories while engaging fans with authentic and meaningful connections, bridging the worlds of sports, lifestyle, and entertainment. PlayersTV's 24/7 channel can be found on DirecTV, YouTube TV, Sling TV, Amazon Fire TV, and Philo . See more at https://playerstv.com/ . About Cloud Media Center Cloud Media Center (CMC), based in Ponte Vedra, FL , sells digital advertising inventory through a cloud-based, analytically driven distribution platform that seamlessly connects advertisers with content providers and publishers. The result maximizes collaboration — unleashing next-level ad campaign synergies. CMC's next-gen platform and best-in-class dashboards — built by next-generation premier developers — provide AI-based microtargeting on the frontend, and real-time, easy-to-understand analytics on the back end. Content producers, advertisers, and publishers will have all the tools and data needed to optimize campaigns — and do it with speed and granular accuracy. Visit the CMC website at https://cloudmc.us/ . View original content to download multimedia: https://www.prnewswire.com/news-releases/playerstv-acquires-cloud-media-center-integrates-sports-ai-ad-technology-to-surpass-1b-monthly-impressions-302337699.html SOURCE PlayersTV

An activist threatened opponents of biological men in women’s restrooms, saying that it was time to “arm up” in an April 2023 video that resurfaced on social media that hinted at fatal consequences for those who try to stop men from entering a women’s restroom. The LibsOfTikTok X account resurfaced the video in a post on X Friday, being viewed 1.9 million times as of early Friday evening. Republican Rep. Nancy Mace of South Carolina also shared the video in a post that had more than 220,000 views, also as of Friday evening. The issue of biological men claiming to be transgender women using women’s restrooms made headlines this week. This, after Mace introduced a resolution covering the Capitol complex’s restrooms as a response to the election of Sarah McBride to Delaware’s at-large congressional seat. In the video originally posted on TikTok last year, the activist, Tara Jay, dared opponents to prevent his entry into a woman’s restroom. (RELATED: ‘I’m Going To Fight Like Hell’: Nancy Mace Doubles Down On Capitol Transgender Bathroom Legislation) WATCH: “I dare you to try and stop a transgender woman in my presence from using the bathroom. It will be the last mistake you ever make This is a call to action and a call to arms to everybody within the United States that are scared, worried, have children that are transgender, lesbian, bi or gay. This is a call to action. You need to arm up. Plain and simple. Go out, buy a gun, learn how to use it efficiently through and through. Because the time to act is now,” Jay said. “You need to protect yourself, and you need to protect your fellow transgender brothers and sisters and theys and thems. You need to protect the rest of us in the LGB community, as I’m going to do myself. I do not fear Christians, I do not fear conservatives, I do not fear evangelicals, and I do not fear Republicans. They just talk a big game, that’s all they do. But heaven forbid you do something in my presence, you’re going to know what fear actually feels like.” This man wants to kill women who don’t want him in their bathroom. #HoldTheLine https://t.co/SPqSq9fkM4 — Nancy Mace (@NancyMace) November 22, 2024 Jay’s TikTok account appeared to be deleted when the Daily Caller News Foundation tried to access it. House Speaker Mike Johnson issued a policy prohibiting biological men from using women’s restrooms in the Capitol, with McBride agreeing to abide by the policy in a statement. All content created by the Daily Caller News Foundation, an independent and nonpartisan newswire service, is available without charge to any legitimate news publisher that can provide a large audience. All republished articles must include our logo, our reporter’s byline and their DCNF affiliation. For any questions about our guidelines or partnering with us, please contact licensing@dailycallernewsfoundation.org .Matt Gaetz says he won't return to Congress next year after withdrawing name for attorney general WASHINGTON (AP) — Matt Gaetz is not coming back to Congress. The Florida Republican said Friday he has no intention of serving another term in the House now that he is no longer President-elect Donald Trump's nominee for attorney general. Gaetz withdrew as the nominee this week amid growing fallout from the allegations of sexual conduct against him. Gaetz denies the allegations. Gaetz didn't lay out his plans now that he's out of office, saying only, “I’m still going to be in the fight, but it’s going to be from a new perch." After Gaetz's withdrawal on Thursday, Trump named former Florida attorney general Pam Bondi to lead the Justice Department. Vance takes on a more visible transition role, working to boost Trump's most contentious picks WASHINGTON (AP) — After several weeks working behind closed doors, Vice President-elect JD Vance returned to Capitol Hill this week in a new, more visible role. He's been helping Donald Trump’s most contentious Cabinet picks try to win confirmation in the Senate, where he has served for the last two years. Vance spent part of Wednesday at the Capitol with Rep. Matt Gaetz sitting in on meetings with Trump’s controversial choice for attorney general. On Thursday, Vance was back, this time accompanying Pete Hegseth. Vance is expected to accompany other nominees for meetings over the coming weeks as he tries to leverage the two years he has spent in the Senate to help push through Trump’s picks. Beyond evangelicals, Trump and his allies courted smaller faith groups, from the Amish to Chabad Donald Trump’s lock on the white evangelical vote is legendary, but he didn't focus exclusively on large religious voter blocs. He and his allies also wooed smaller religious groups, away from the mainstream. He posted a tribute to Coptic church members on social media and met with members of Assyrians for Trump — two smaller Christian communities with Middle Eastern roots. He visited the grave of the revered late leader of an Orthodox Jewish movement. His allies sought votes from the separatist Amish community. While Trump won decisively, the outreaches reflected aggressive campaigning in what was expected to be a tight race. NATO and Ukraine to hold emergency talks after Russia's attack with new hypersonic missile KYIV, Ukraine (AP) — NATO and Ukraine will hold emergency talks Tuesday after Russia attacked a central city with a hypersonic ballistic missile that escalated the nearly 33-month-old war. Ukraine's parliament canceled a session Friday over the security threat. In a stark warning to the West, President Vladimir Putin said in a nationally televised speech Thursday that the attack with the intermediate-range Oreshnik missile was retaliation for Kyiv’s use of U.S. and British longer-range missiles capable of striking deeper into Russian territory. Putin said Russia is launching production of the Oreshnik, saying it's so powerful that several of them fitted with conventional warheads could be as devastating as a strike with strategic — or nuclear — weapons. Texas education board approves optional Bible-infused curriculum for elementary schools AUSTIN, Texas (AP) — Texas’ education board has voted to allow Bible-infused teachings in elementary schools. The approval Friday follows other Republican-led states that have pushed this year to give religion a larger presence in public classrooms. The curriculum adopted by the Texas State Board of Education is optional for schools to adopt, but they’ll receive additional funding if they do so. Parents and teachers who opposed the curriculum say the lessons will alienate students of other faith backgrounds. Supporters argue the Bible is a core feature of American history and that teaching it will enrich learning. 2 convicted in human smuggling case after Indian family froze to death on US-Canada border FERGUS FALLS, Minn. (AP) — A jury has convicted two men of charges related to human smuggling for their roles in an international operation that led to the deaths of a family of Indian migrants who froze while trying to cross the Canada-U.S. border during a 2022 blizzard. Harshkumar Ramanlal Patel and Steve Shand each faced four charges related to human smuggling before being convicted on Friday. Patel is an Indian national. Shand is an American from Florida. They were arrested after the family froze while trying to cross the desolate border during a 2022 blizzard. Storm inundates Northern California with rain, heavy snow. Thousands remain in the dark in Seattle HEALDSBURG, Calif. (AP) — Heavy rain from a major storm prompted evacuation warnings for communities near a Northern California river that forecasters say could break its banks Friday, as the system continued to dump heavy snow in mountainous areas where some ski resorts opened for the season. The storm reached the Pacific Northwest earlier this week, killing two people and knocking out power to hundreds of thousands before moving through Northern California, where several roads were closed due to flooding and strong winds toppled some trees. Forecasters are warning about the risk of flash flooding and rockslides in areas north of San Francisco as the region was inundated by this season’s strongest atmospheric river. Archaeologists discover 4,000-year-old canals used to fish by predecessors of ancient Maya WASHINGTON (AP) — Using drones and Google Earth imagery, archaeologists have discovered a 4,000-year-old network of earthen canals in what’s now Belize. The research published Friday in Science Advances shows that long before the ancient Maya built temples, their predecessors were already altering the landscape of Central America’s Yucatan peninsula. The ancient fish canals were used to channel and catch freshwater species such as catfish. These structures were used for around 1,000 years — including during the “formative” period when the Maya began to settle in permanent farming villages and a distinctive culture started to emerge. California case is the first confirmed bird flu infection in a US child Health officials are confirming bird flu in a California child — the first reported case in a U.S. minor. The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention announced confirmatory test results on Friday. Officials say the child had mild symptoms, was treated with antiviral medication and is recovering. The child’s infection brings the reported number of U.S. bird flu cases this year to 55, including 29 in California. State officials have said the child lives in Alameda County, which includes Oakland, and attends day care, but released no other details. Brazilian police formally accuse former President Bolsonaro and aides of alleged 2022 coup attempt SAO PAULO (AP) — Brazil’s Federal Police have formally accused former President Jair Bolsonaro and 36 other people of attempting a coup to keep him in office after his electoral defeat in the 2022 elections. The findings are to be delivered Thursday to Brazil’s Supreme Court, which will refer them to Prosecutor-General Paulo Gonet, who will either formally charge Bolsonaro and put the former president on trial or toss the investigation. The former right-wing president has denied all claims he tried to stay in office after his narrow electoral defeat in 2022 to his rival, leftist President Luiz Inácio Lula da Silva. Bolsonaro has faced a series of legal threats since then.Moni scores 25 in North Dakota State's 91-62 win against Wisconsin-Stout

 

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fortune ox demo ( MENAFN - GlobeNewsWire - Nasdaq) Munster, Ind., Dec. 20, 2024 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) -- Finward Bancorp (Nasdaq: FNWD) (the“Bancorp” or“Finward”), the holding company for Peoples bank (the“Bank”), today announced that on December 20, 2024 the Board of Directors of Finward declared a dividend of $0.12 per share on Finward's common stock payable on February 3, 2025 to shareholders of record at the close of business on January 21, 2025. About Finward Bancorp Finward Bancorp is a locally managed and independent financial holding company headquartered in Munster, Indiana, whose activities are primarily limited to holding the stock of Peoples Bank. Peoples Bank provides a wide range of personal, business, electronic and wealth management financial services from its 26 locations in Lake and Porter Counties in Northwest Indiana and the Chicagoland area. Finward Bancorp's common stock is quoted on The NASDAQ Stock Market, LLC under the symbol FNWD. The website ibankpeoples.com provides information on Peoples Bank's products and services, and Finward Bancorp's investor relations. Forward Looking Statements This Current Report on Form 8-K may contain forward-looking statements regarding the financial performance, business prospects, growth, and operating strategies of Finward. For these statements, Finward claims the protections of the safe harbor for forward-looking statements contained in the Private Securities Litigation Reform Act of 1995. Statements in this communication should be considered in conjunction with the other information available about Finward, including the information in the filings Finward makes with the Securities and Exchange Commission (“SEC”). Forward-looking statements provide current expectations or forecasts of future events and are not guarantees of future performance. The forward-looking statements are based on management's expectations and are subject to a number of risks and uncertainties. Forward-looking statements are typically identified by using words such as“anticipate,”“estimate,”“project,”“intend,”“plan,”“believe,”“will” and similar expressions in connection with any discussion of future operating or financial performance. Although management believes that the expectations reflected in such forward-looking statements are reasonable, actual results may differ materially from those expressed or implied in such statements. Risks and uncertainties that could cause actual results to differ materially include: the Bank's ability to demonstrate compliance with the terms of the previously disclosed consent order and memorandum of understanding entered into between the Bank and the Federal Deposit Insurance Corporation (“FDIC”) and Indiana Department of Financial Institutions (“DFI”), or to demonstrate compliance to the satisfaction of the FDIC and/or DFI within prescribed time frames; the Bank's agreement under the memorandum of understanding to refrain from paying cash dividends without prior regulatory approval; changes in asset quality and credit risk; the inability to sustain revenue and earnings growth; changes in interest rates and capital markets; inflation; customer acceptance of Finward's products and services; customer borrowing, repayment, investment, and deposit practices; customer disintermediation; the introduction, withdrawal, success, and timing of business initiatives; competitive conditions; the inability to realize cost savings or revenues or to implement integration plans and other consequences associated with mergers, acquisitions, and divestitures; economic conditions; and the impact, extent, and timing of technological changes, capital management activities, and other actions of the Federal Reserve Board and legislative and regulatory actions and reforms. Additional factors that could cause actual results to differ materially from those expressed in the forward-looking statements are discussed in Finward's reports (such as the Annual Report on Form 10-K, Quarterly Reports on Form 10-Q, and Current Reports on Form 8-K) filed with the SEC and available at the SEC's Internet website ( ). All subsequent written and oral forward-looking statements concerning Finward or any person acting on its behalf are expressly qualified in their entirety by the cautionary statements above. Except as required by law, Finward does not undertake any obligation to update any forward-looking statement to reflect circumstances or events that occur after the date the forward-looking statement is made. In addition to the above factors, we also caution that the actual amounts and timing of any future common stock dividends or share repurchases will be subject to various factors, including our capital position, financial performance, capital impacts of strategic initiatives, market conditions, and regulatory and accounting considerations, as well as any other factors that our Board of Directors deems relevant in making such a determination. Therefore, there can be no assurance that we will repurchase shares or pay any dividends to the holders of our common stock, or as to the amount of any such repurchases or dividends. ### MENAFN20122024004107003653ID1109018322 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. 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DETROIT — China will soon see a massive expansion of electric vehicle battery swapping, as global battery maker CATL said Wednesday it is investing heavily in stations there next year. Battery swapping is not new — but it's had a challenging journey. Adoption of electric vehicles has varied in regions across the globe over the past several years, and that doesn't always bode well for building new infrastructure. While the technology could do well in China, it's uncertain whether it could work in other countries. What is battery swapping? Battery swapping allows EV drivers to pull into a station on a low battery and receive a swapped, fully-charged battery within minutes. An EV has to be equipped with the right technology to receive a swap — and not many models around the world currently have it. Automakers have to buy into the idea, and EV adoption among consumers also has to grow, so that investing in new infrastructure seems worthwhile. Consumers also have to be comfortable not owning their battery. Why could it work in China? China is much further along in adopting EVs than other countries. Not only is it the world's largest auto market, but in July, the country hit a milestone with 50% of new sales electric — and it accounts for most of this year's global EV sales. China supports EV growth through government subsidies and mandates. So it makes more sense for companies to invest in unique EV infrastructure there because that's more likely to be needed. What other attempts at battery swapping have occurred? The most notable example might be Israeli startup Better Place, which tried its hand at swapping in 2007. But the company shut down a few years later after investing a lot of money and coming up against roadblocks with logistics. EV adoption was especially low at the time. Could it work in the United States? Europe? Startup Ample, for example, has a modular battery swapping station that it says can complete a swap in 5 minutes. That’s important as charging time remains a point of concern for prospective EV buyers. Even the fastest fast chargers could take at least 15 minutes for a decent charge. But in the U.S., pure EVs only accounted for 8% of new vehicle sales as of November. Meanwhile Nio, a rival Chinese EV brand, has about 60 swap stations in northern Europe, and the EV adoption is higher there than the U.S., but the same challenges remain. Different automakers put different batteries in their various EV models, so a station would need all of those available if the industry didn't agree to a standardized battery, and not all of those models are out yet in volume. This is something that really needs scale. Swapping could help with EV cost — currently a barrier to adoption for many — because a driver wouldn’t necessarily own the most expensive part of an EV: the battery. Greg Less, director of the University of Michigan Battery Lab, said with proper framing and education, people might like the idea of battery swapping. To him, it's not unlike buying a propane-fueled grill and purchasing a refilled tank every so often. But it would require a rethinking of car ownership. "Where I could see it working is if we went entirely away from vehicle ownership and we went to a use-on-demand model," Less added. “I don’t think we’re there yet.” What vehicle uses might be best for swapping? Battery swapping might make most sense for ride-sharing or other fleet vehicles. Drivers of buses, taxis, Uber or Lyft vehicles want to spend as much time on the road as possible, transporting customers and making money. If battery swapping can shorten the time needed to charge EVs, that makes driving one less disruptive to their business. ___ Alexa St. John is an Associated Press climate solutions reporter. Follow her on X: @alexa_stjohn . Reach her at ast.john@ap.org .

President-elect Trump transfers close to 4 billion worth Trump Media shares to trust

President-elect Trump transfers close to $4 billion worth of his Trump Media shares to a trustIt's an aphorism that, over the ages, India has not done enough to market her strengths. We have been rather weak at propagating our achievements. In his well-researched book 'The Golden Road', William Dalrymple writes that in the millennium from 250 BC to 1200 AD, Indian art, technology, astronomy, music, literature and mathematics blazed a trail across the world -- a veritable Golden Road that stretched from the Red Sea to the Pacific. India's ideas transformed the world. However, "the centrality of the Indian subcontinent has been obscured by the Sinocentric concept of the Silk Road. In contrast, China has been very good at telling its story." In the modern era, we should avoid the same pitfall. As a nation, we tend to be over critical to the extent of indulging in self-destructive behaviour. While it is imperative to undertake periodic analyses and effect improvements, we should be careful not to destroy the credibility of our institutions and statutory frameworks. In recent years, India has made efforts to market its digital public infrastructure. Aadhaar, UPI, COWIN, GEM and similar other digital platforms have the potential to become global public goods . Significant diplomatic and economic benefits can be reaped from this. It's a good beginning. In this context, we should consider advertising our election management system to the world. We can teach a thing or two to some advanced western democracies. It's not just about the staggering scale. Polling stations are set up in the remotest corners -- from the hamlets in the upper reaches of the Himalayas to the Sundarbans delta. We conduct elections on a massive scale in a near flawless fashion. However, it's the integrity and robustness of the process that is indeed commendable. Under the leadership of successive CECs and Election Commissioners, this has been strengthened. The credit also goes to successive elected governments for having by and large eschewed the temptation to meddle with the system. One must applaud the founding fathers of the Constitution for putting in place the Election Commission and laying down provisions to ensure it acts independently. These provisions are enshrined in Article 324, where it's stipulated that CECs can be removed only through impeachment and that their terms of service can't be adversely altered during incumbency. 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From redistricting to voter registration to setting up polling booths and counting, the entire process is controlled by the elected governments of the individual states. Gerrymandering is a term that describes how the ruling dispensation in each state rearranges Congressional district boundaries to maximise their advantages in the first past the post system. The chaos resulting from different rules and politically controlled processes were on full global display during the 2016 and 2020 presidential elections. In India, delimitation of parliamentary and state assembly constituencies is required to be carried out as per Articles 82 and 170 of the Constitution, under law to be enacted by Parliament. The Parliament has been enacting Delimitation Acts under which Delimitation Commissions, headed by retired Supreme Court judges, carried out the exercise. Same goes for preparation of electoral rolls and setting up of polling stations. Recognised political parties are notified about revision of electoral rolls. Electoral registration officers have to furnish the list of claims, objections, the draft and final lists to the registered parties. Political parties have to be notified about every change in location of a polling station. All these processes are conducted under ECI's supervision. There is no role for the central or state governments. District Collectors, who are designated as the District Election Officers (DEO), function directly under the ECI for these purposes. During the actual conduct of polling and counting, the ECI virtually takes control of the district administration, the DEOs, Returning Officers and their subordinates. It effects transfers of poll-related officers, including police officers. ECI appoints observers for each constituency who report directly to it. Each step is conducted under the supervision of representatives of political parties and candidates. This has always been the case -- both when ballot boxes were used and now with EVMs. EVMs and VVPATS to be used at different polling stations are randomised in the presence of representatives of political parties and for a second time, in the presence of candidates. They are then dispatched in the presence of candidates and their representatives are invited to put signatures on the seals of EVMs and VVPATs. Polling agents of candidates are present at each polling station. They are allowed to inspect the ballot boxes and sign the seals of EVMs and VVPATS before and after polling. Polling agents can put their signatures on Form 17C which gives an account of the number of votes cast. They can accompany the vehicles transporting EVMs to strong rooms. These rooms are sealed and opened in the presence of candidates. Counting of votes takes place in the presence of candidates and they can have their agents at each counting table. They can verify the tally for each EVM and match them with Form 17C. Each step is video graphed. It's difficult to find such an elaborate and foolproof system anywhere in the world. We will do well to market our election management system to developing and even some developed countries whose election processes leave much to be desired. It's an opportunity waiting to be harnessed. At the very least, let's not denigrate our system! (You can now subscribe to our Economic Times WhatsApp channel )Fortinet Addresses Unpatched Critical RCE Vector

Nagpur: The assembly on Friday unanimously passed the bill to bring in the Maharashtra Prisons and Correctional Services Act (MPCSA)-2024 aimed at transforming the state's prison system. The comprehensive bill introduces reforms such as open prisons for women, segregated facilities for women and transgender individuals, and dedicated spaces for civil prisoners. Tabled by chief minister Devendra Fadnavis, the bill modelled on the Union's Model Prisons and Correctional Services Act, 2023, replaces three outdated laws, including the colonial-era Prisons Act-1894, and brings the prison system in line with modern correctional principles. It includes innovative features like a grievance redressal mechanism and quick response teams for emergencies in jails. Fadnavis highlighted the need to overhaul the prison system, long plagued by overcrowding, outdated infrastructure and inadequate rehabilitation programmes. He emphasised that the existing colonial law remained largely unchanged post-Independence, despite prisons being a state subject. "The reform represents a significant shift from punitive confinement to a focus on rehabilitation and social reintegration , aligning the state's prison system with contemporary correctional philosophies," the CM said. The act introduces several groundbreaking changes that redefine the role of prisons and include measures to improve infrastructure, implement technology, and address the needs of inmates and prison staff. "One of the most significant aspects of the act is the restructuring of prison administration. The post of inspector ceneral (IG), retained since colonial times, will be replaced by a Director General of Prisons and Correctional Rehabilitation, marking a shift in priorities. The prison system will no longer be viewed as part of the police force but as a separate entity focusing on correctional services," he said. Fadnavis announced provisions specifically addressing the needs of marginalised groups. "For the first time, distinct chapters for women inmates and transgender inmates have been added, ensuring better facilities, accommodations, and security measures. New jail classifications, including special jails for high-risk offenders, open jails for prisoners nearing release, and youth rehabilitation centres have been introduced," he said. Programmes like promoting higher education, and initiatives for skill development and employment will be prioritised. Open prisons and colonies, like the Sangli Open Colony, will allow inmates to live semi-independently while contributing to society. "Under-trial Review Committees, chaired by district judges, will periodically assess cases of inmates who have completed one-third of their sentences or are facing undue delays. This will help decongest jails and ensure the rights of undertrial prisoners. To assist indigent prisoners unable to afford bail bonds, district collectors will lead panels to provide financial support, reducing the number of inmates held for minor offences due to financial constraints." Stay updated with the latest news on Times of India . Don't miss daily games like Crossword , Sudoku , and Mini Crossword .A Pima County judge rejected preservationists' bid for a preliminary injunction to stop Pima Community College from demolishing three historic, long-vacant Tucson motels. Superior Court Judge Brenden J. Griffin's ruling Thursday came after arguments by the Arizona Preservation Foundation and Tucson Historical Preservation Foundation and by defendant PCC. Griffin said his decision was based on Pima Community College being a “political subdivision” and not a “state agency,” a distinction he said removes any requirement in state law for the college to undertake historic preservation of its properties. The plaintiffs will appeal, said Demion Clinco, CEO of the Tucson Historic Preservation Foundation and a former PCC Governing Board chair. A judge ruled demolition plans may proceed for three long-closed historic motels — Tucson Inn, Copper Cactus Inn and Frontier Motel — located along West Drachman Street on the north side of the Pima Community College downtown campus. Historic preservationists said they will appeal to a higher court. “Of course we’re disappointed, but this is a significant decision. So, it being pushed to the Court of Appeals is not really a surprise at all,” Clinco said after the hearing. “Ultimately, we strongly believe that Pima Community College is subject to the Arizona State Historic Preservation Act and has responsibilities under the law to consult with the State Historic Preservation Office and protect these resources,” Clinco said. “Because, as was noted during the hearing, these are important cultural assets that are listed on the National Register of Historic Places.” Griffin’s decision included lifting a temporary restraining order blocking demolition that was briefly granted earlier this month until full arguments could be heard in court. The order will be lifted as of Dec. 27, which Griffin said will give the plaintiffs time to take their case to the Arizona Court of Appeals. The 1940s-’50s-era motels — the Tucson Inn, Frontier Motel and Copper Cactus — are located on Drachman Street north of downtown Tucson. “We are pleased that the court has confirmed that state historic preservation laws do not apply to local governments like Pima College or college decisions about the Drachman properties," PCC officials said in a statement to the Arizona Daily Star. "We are also pleased that the court refused to issue the injunction and provided plaintiffs with only a limited time to seek review of the court’s decision." “While we respect the right of opponents to pursue further legal action, ongoing litigation will delay our efforts to address critical safety and security issues on the site," and to direct taxpayer resources away from the rundown motels' costly renovation needs and back to "our educational mission and the students we serve," PCC said. The lawsuit was filed earlier this month after the PCC Governing Board capped a years-long debate over the properties by voting in November to demolish the structures but to try to save their neon signs. The college estimated the vote will save up to $35.7 million that would have been needed to restore the motels. Plaintiffs' attorney Benjamin Rundall argued Thursday that preservation laws apply to political subdivisions such as PCC, while the college's lawyer Robert D. Haws argued otherwise. “There’s not any clear precedent," Rundall said, "but we still think that our argument is the right argument, which is that these preservation statutes have to include political subdivisions, because everything in Arizona is a political subdivision. So, if it doesn’t apply to political subdivisions, it really doesn’t apply to anybody — meaning that Arizona residents don’t benefit from any preservation laws," he said. PCC General Counsel Jeff Silvyn, also present at the hearing with Haws, declined to comment on the judge’s decision. The three motels were purchased by the college in 2018 and 2019 at costs of more than $1 million for the Tucson Inn and about $1.3 million for the Frontier Motel and Copper Cactus. Over the last seven years, possible uses for the properties were discussed by the college — a culinary and hospitality program; a diversity, equity and inclusion center; a teaching and learning center; an innovation center; or an education technology lab, with cost estimates for renovation ranging up to $35.7 million. In the meantime, the buildings have sat vacant, sustaining damage from weather and vandalism. The demolition costs are estimated at $500,000 by the college. Reporter Prerana Sannappanavar covers higher education for the Arizona Daily Star and Tucson.com . Contact her at psannappa1@tucson.com . Subscribe to stay connected to Tucson. A subscription helps you access more of the local stories that keep you connected to the community. Want to see more like this? Get our local education coverage delivered directly to your inbox. Higher Education Reporter

The U.S. Department of Commerce has awarded TI up to $1.6 billion in CHIPS Act funding to support three new 300mm semiconductor wafer fabs under construction in Texas and Utah . TI also expects to receive an estimated $6 billion to $8 billion from the U.S. Department of the Treasury's Investment Tax Credit for qualified U.S. manufacturing investments. The company will also receive up to $10 million to support workforce development. LEHI, Utah and SHERMAN, Texas , Dec. 20, 2024 /PRNewswire/ -- Texas Instruments (TI) (Nasdaq: TXN) and the U.S. Department of Commerce today announced an award agreement of up to $1.6 billion in direct funding through the U.S. CHIPS and Science Act, following the preliminary memorandum of terms announced in August 2024 . The funding will help support three of TI's new 300mm wafer fabs currently under construction in Texas and Utah. Support from the CHIPS Act, including the 25% investment tax credit, will help TI provide a geopolitically dependable supply of essential analog and embedded processing semiconductors. "As the largest analog and embedded processing semiconductor manufacturer in the U.S., TI is uniquely positioned to provide dependable, low-cost 300mm semiconductor manufacturing capacity at scale," said Haviv Ilan, president and CEO of Texas Instruments. "The increasing number of electronic devices in our lives depend on our foundational chips, and we appreciate the support from the U.S. government to make the semiconductor ecosystem stronger and more resilient." The CHIPS Act direct funding will support TI's investments through 2029 for three large-scale 300mm wafer fabs in Sherman, Texas (SM1 and SM2), and Lehi, Utah (LFAB2). Together, these fabs will manufacture tens of millions of analog and embedded processing chips every day that are critical to a variety of end markets, including automotive, industrial, personal electronics, communications equipment and enterprise systems. Specifically, the CHIPS Act direct funding will be distributed upon completion of project milestones, supporting: Cleanroom construction and tool installations at SM1 in Sherman, Texas ; Shell construction of SM2, a second fab in Sherman, Texas ; and Cleanroom construction and tool installations at LFAB2, a second fab in Lehi, Utah . These connected, multi-fab sites in Texas and Utah will benefit from shared infrastructure, talent and technology sharing, and a strong network of existing suppliers and community partners. Combined, TI's three new fabs in Texas and Utah will create 2,000 company jobs, along with thousands of indirect jobs for construction, suppliers and supporting industries. TI is also investing in building its future workforce. As part of the CHIPS Act award agreement, TI will also receive up to $10 million for workplace development efforts in Texas and Utah . Consistent with TI's longstanding commitment to responsible, sustainable manufacturing and environmental stewardship, the company's 300mm wafer fabs will be entirely powered by renewable electricity. Additionally, TI is committed to reducing overall water consumption across its operations, endeavoring to achieve a 70% water reuse capability in Sherman, Texas , and Lehi , Utah. All of TI's new 300mm fabs are also designed to meet LEED Gold standards for structural efficiency and sustainability. Learn more: TI CHIPS Act press kit (includes images, video b-roll, fact sheet) TI Sherman, Texas , press kit TI Lehi, Utah , press kit Notice regarding forward-looking statements This release includes forward-looking statements intended to qualify for the safe harbor from liability established by the Private Securities Litigation Reform Act of 1995. These forward-looking statements generally can be identified by phrases such as TI or its management "believes," "expects," "anticipates," "foresees," "forecasts," "estimates" or other words or phrases of similar import. Similarly, statements herein that describe TI's business strategy, outlook, objectives, plans, intentions or goals also are forward-looking statements. All such forward-looking statements are subject to certain risks and uncertainties that could cause actual results to differ materially from those in forward-looking statements. See Item 1A of TI's most recent Form 10-K for a detailed discussion of risk factors that could cause results to differ materially from the forward-looking statements. The forward-looking statements included in this release are made only as of the date of this release, and we undertake no obligation to update the forward-looking statements to reflect subsequent events or circumstances. If we do update any forward-looking statement, you should not infer that we will make additional updates with respect to that statement or any other forward-looking statement. About Texas Instruments Texas Instruments Incorporated (Nasdaq: TXN) is a global semiconductor company that designs, manufactures, and sells analog and embedded processing chips for markets such as industrial, automotive, personal electronics, communications equipment and enterprise systems. At our core, we have a passion to create a better world by making electronics more affordable through semiconductors. This passion is alive today as each generation of innovation builds upon the last to make our technology more reliable, more affordable and lower power, making it possible for semiconductors to go into electronics everywhere. Learn more at TI.com . View original content to download multimedia: https://www.prnewswire.com/news-releases/texas-instruments-announces-award-agreement-for-chips-and-science-act-funding-302337541.html SOURCE Texas InstrumentsCUMBERLAND — Baltimore Street was home to a pedestrian mall for decades until a recently completed renovation opened it to one-way vehicle and bicycle traffic and created some parking spaces. On Tuesday, the mayor and City Council tabled a proposal that would establish rates for the 20 new parking spots. Under the plan, all parking spaces on Baltimore Street would be included in a ParkMobile app zone, and cost $2 per hour with a two-hour maximum. But folks without a cellphone wouldn’t be able to access the app, Councilwoman Laurie Marchini said, and she suggested an additional method be created to pay for the parking. She said a vote on the issue should be delayed until downtown merchants are consulted. Councilman Rock Cioni said he wanted to hold a decision until more information was available. “The app thing ... I would not know how to do that,” he said. Cumberland Mayor Ray Morriss said the technology “takes minutes” to install on a mobile phone and provides drivers flexibility to alter the time they want to be parked. Cumberland Administrator Jeff Silka said the app’s two-hour window would allow downtown patrons to dine at a restaurant and do some shopping. Booths could provide an added way to pay for parking, he said. “We’d have to buy (at least three new) kiosks,” Silka said of the need to replace the city’s “dinosaurs.” City Councilman Jimmy Furstenberg said a nearby public parking garage is convenient — only about 130 steps from the heart of downtown — and equated that distance to a typical walk between the local Walmart and its parking lot. Larry Jackson co-owns Western Maryland Music Center on Baltimore Street and is vice president of the Downtown Development Commission. He owns multiple downtown properties and serves on city boards, including the Historic Preservation Commission. Jackson on Thursday said city officials didn’t consult downtown merchants about the plan to monetize the new parking spaces on Baltimore Street. He wants the spots to remain free. “I’m totally against it,” Jackson said of charging for parking and added that so far, drivers have used “goodwill” when they use the spaces. He suggested city officials keep the spaces free for six months to a year and “see how it plays out.” The parking issue is expected to be discussed at next month’s city meeting. In other business, the mayor and council: • Heard first readings of ordinances to sell: 208-210 Virginia Ave. to Goodfellowship Social Club Inc. for $2,000; Brookfield Avenue Portion of Lot 1 in Block 28 to Sean B. and Kristie M. Thomas for $600; 31 Offutt St. to Covenant Keeper Inc. for $800; 513 Fayette St. to 817 Maryland Ave. LLC for $5,001; Greene Street PT lots 86 and 87 to Jake Shade for $100; and 118 Winton Place to Betty Fournier for $12,000. • Met privately Tuesday to discuss development of parcels on the former Memorial Hospital site, businesses that might be interested in locating on the city’s Messick Road property, terms of a new employment contract with the fire chief and board and committee appointments. • Agreed to buy 425 Central Ave. from Robyn Vandevander for the purchase price of $7,500 as part of the Central Avenue Initiative. • Agreed to place for sale 411, 415 and 425 Central Ave. • Awarded $20,000 of the Choose Cumberland Relocation Package, which uses grant funds from the Maryland Department of Housing and Community Development, to Keisha J. Banks as the sixth of 10 applicants.

The Growing Need for Intellectual Property Services in India In today’s innovation-driven economy, intellectual property (IP) has become one of the most valuable assets for businesses. From trademarks and copyrights to patents and trade secrets, safeguarding intellectual property is crucial for sustaining competitive advantage. As India evolves into a global hub for technology and innovation, the demand for reliable intellectual property services is on the rise. Here, we list the top 10 companies offering intellectual property services in India in 2025 , which are empowering organizations to protect, manage, and monetize their IP rights. 1. Anand and Anand Anand and Anand is a leading name in the field of intellectual property law in India. With decades of experience, this firm specializes in IP litigation, enforcement, and advisory services. Why Choose Anand and Anand? Expertise in trademarks, patents, copyrights, and design law. Comprehensive IP audits and strategy development. Known for representing high-profile clients in landmark cases. Their client-centric approach and innovative legal strategies make them a go-to firm for businesses of all sizes. 2. Khurana & Khurana Khurana & Khurana is a full-service IP law firm with a strong focus on patent filing and prosecution. They are recognized for their robust technical expertise, particularly in the fields of engineering, pharmaceuticals, and IT. Key Services Offered: Patent drafting, filing, and prosecution. Trademark and copyright registration. IP valuation and monetization. Their strong global presence ensures seamless cross-border IP protection. 3. Remfry & Sagar One of the oldest law firms in India, Remfry & Sagar has been at the forefront of intellectual property services for over a century. They have a proven track record in managing large portfolios for multinational corporations. Standout Features: Extensive experience in IP litigation. Expertise in IP portfolio management. Strong international affiliations for global IP protection. Their blend of tradition and modernity makes them a preferred partner for IP-related matters. 4. Singh & Singh Law Firm LLP Singh & Singh Law Firm LLP is known for its specialization in IP litigation and dispute resolution. They have represented numerous clients in high-stakes litigation and arbitration. Core Strengths: Expertise in copyright and trademark infringement cases. Advisory services for IP strategy and compliance. Comprehensive litigation support. Their ability to deliver customized solutions sets them apart in the IP landscape. 5. LexOrbis LexOrbis is a full-service IP firm offering end-to-end solutions to domestic and international clients. They are known for their innovative approach and deep industry knowledge. What They Offer: Patent analytics and landscape studies. IP licensing and commercialization. Trademark opposition and defense. Their tech-savvy team ensures that clients receive cutting-edge solutions for complex IP challenges. 6. Inttl Advocare Inttl Advocare is a boutique IP law firm focusing on providing high-quality services tailored to client needs. Their expertise spans multiple industries, including fashion, media, and technology. Highlights: Trademark portfolio management. Copyright protection and licensing. Anti-counterfeiting measures and brand enforcement. Their industry-specific approach makes them a preferred choice for niche businesses. 7. Chadha & Chadha IP Chadha & Chadha IP is a highly reputed firm specializing in patents, trademarks, and industrial designs. Their commitment to client satisfaction has earned them a stellar reputation in the IP domain. Key Offerings: Patent prosecution and enforcement. Trademark registration and management. Legal support for IP disputes. Their hands-on approach ensures that clients’ intellectual property remains well-protected. 8. S.S. Rana & Co. S.S. Rana & Co. is a trusted name in the IP services industry, offering a wide array of services across different sectors. They emphasize building long-term relationships with their clients. Services Include: IP litigation and arbitration. Trademark and copyright services. Online brand monitoring and enforcement. Their proactive approach to IP management ensures timely resolution of issues. 9. BananaIP Counsels BananaIP Counsels is known for its specialization in IP services for startups and small businesses. They offer cost-effective solutions without compromising on quality. Top Services: Patent drafting and filing. IP audits and strategy development. Licensing and commercialization of IP assets. Their startup-friendly approach makes them a popular choice for budding entrepreneurs. 10. Depenning & Depenning Depenning & Depenning is one of India’s oldest IP firms, with a rich legacy of excellence in intellectual property services. They offer a wide range of services to help businesses safeguard their innovations. Specialties: Patent prosecution and litigation. Trademark registration and opposition. Domain name dispute resolution. Their blend of experience and expertise ensures comprehensive IP protection for clients. How to Choose the Right Intellectual Property Services Provider When selecting a company for intellectual property services, consider the following factors: The Future of Intellectual Property Services in India As India continues to emerge as a global innovation hub, the importance of protecting intellectual property cannot be overstated. With advancements in technology, IP service providers are leveraging AI and data analytics to offer more efficient and cost-effective solutions. The top intellectual property services providers listed here are well-equipped to meet the evolving needs of businesses in 2025 and beyond.The ( ) gives investors one of the easiest ways to access the global share market. But after a strong year in 2024, where the VGS ETF unit price has risen by over 26%, it's worthwhile asking what could happen next year. I'd say the last two and a half years have been characterised by and . The interest rate and inflation story may influence the global share market again in 2025, but geopolitical factors could also play their part. The incoming US President, Donald Trump, could really shake things up, which could have implications for commodity markets, US company tax rates, and a possible trade war. When we look at the VGS ETF's holdings, around three-quarters of the Vanguard MSCI Index International Shares ETF is invested in US-listed businesses. That is a very influential allocation, so the US market and the US economy in general could play an important role. Over the long term, the global share market has managed to deliver growth because the underlying companies have grown their earnings. I believe that dynamic will continue over the next ten years. But, specifically looking at 2025, let's consider what one of the world's leading research teams thinks could happen for the global share market, which the VGS ETF is a good substitute for. Dubravko Lakos-Bujas, head of the global markets strategy at JPMorgan, believes we're going to see more in 2025. Lakos-Bujas said: The central equity theme for next year is one of higher dispersion across stocks, styles, sectors, countries and themes. This should improve the opportunity set and provide a healthier backdrop for the active management industry after consecutive quarters of record narrow and unhealthy equity leadership. In other words, it could be a stock-picker's market. In 2022 and 2023, the Western world collectively saw inflation and rising interest rates. But now, central banks are on different paths, there is uneven inflation progress, and technology innovation could cause a lot of variability between companies and countries. Lakos-Bujas then said: The U.S. could remain the global growth engine with the business cycle in expansion, a healthy labor market, broadening of AI-related capital spending, and the prospect of robust capital markets and dealmaking activity. On the other hand, Europe continues to face structural challenges, while EM [emerging markets] struggles with higher-for-longer rates, the strong U.S. dollar and incremental trade policy headwinds. Japan could also benefit from "strong demand and favourable currency rates on the international stage". Japan is the second largest country allocation inside the VGS ETF portfolio. Lakos-Bujas concluded with the following comments: We think the key risk for our base case and especially the riskier segments of the market is one where the disinflation progress fully stalls and starts to reverse, forcing the Federal Reserve (Fed) to open doors to potential hikes later in 2025 or early 2026. If this scenario were to start playing out, we will likely have to revisit our outlook. Most of the VGS ETF is invested in US, UK, European and Japanese shares, and JPMorgan is positive on each of those markets. On 17 December 2024, it said it expected that by the end of 2025, the US share market would rise around 9%, the European share market would rise 5%, the UK share market would rise 4%, and the Japanese share market would increase 10%. Overall, it seems like it could be a volatile but positive time for the global share market, including the VGS ETF.

Murder investigation launched after woman found dead in Cambridgeshire village

JOSH BERMAN JOINS ASSEMBLY AS EVP, ASSEMBLY LEAD IN NORTH AMERICAVANCOUVER, British Columbia, Dec. 19, 2024 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) -- Entrée Resources Ltd. (TSX:ETG; OTCQB:ERLFF – the “ Company ” or “ Entrée ”) is pleased to announce that today a partial final award (the “ Award ”) was made by the three-member international arbitration Tribunal appointed in connection with the Company’s binding arbitration proceedings against its joint venture partner Oyu Tolgoi LLC (“ OTLLC” ) and Turquoise Hill Resources Ltd. (together, the “ Respondents ”). The Tribunal has ruled in favor of Entrée on all issues and dismissed the Respondents’ counterclaims. Stephen Scott, the Company’s President & CEO commented, “This Award represents a tremendous outcome for the Company and provides much needed certainty for all Oyu Tolgoi project stakeholders as we endeavor to keep Lift 1 Panel 1 development work on schedule.” The Company commenced proceedings on May 26, 2022, to seek declarations and orders for specific performance relating to certain provisions of the amended 2004 Equity Participation and Earn-in Agreement (the “ Earn-in Agreement ”) and Joint Venture Agreement (the “ JVA ”) with OTLLC. The Tribunal issued final and binding declarations that: OTLLC is obligated to provide to Entrée an executed copy of the JVA, in the form appended to the Earn-in Agreement, subject only to any amendments to its terms that Entrée and OTLLC mutually agree; OTLLC is obligated to facilitate and accept the transfer of the Shivee Tolgoi and Javhlant mining licenses (the “ Licenses ”) for the Entrée/Oyu Tolgoi joint venture as required by the JVA; and Any taxes and fees assessed on the transfer of the Licenses are subject to the terms of the JVA, with OTLLC contributing Entrée’s 20% share as a loan under Section 10.1 of the JVA. The Tribunal also reserved Entrée’s claims for specific performance, and in the alternative equitable damages, and the issue of costs, to a subsequent award. The Company is currently considering potential next steps and will update the market in due course. ABOUT ENTRÉE RESOURCES LTD. Entrée Resources Ltd. is a well-funded Canadian mining company with a unique carried joint venture interest on a significant portion of one of the world’s largest copper-gold projects – the Oyu Tolgoi project in Mongolia. Entrée has a 20% or 30% carried participating interest in the Entrée/Oyu Tolgoi joint venture, depending on the depth of mineralization. Horizon Copper Corp. and Rio Tinto are major shareholders of Entrée, beneficially holding approximately 24% and 16% of the shares of the Company, respectively. More information about Entrée can be found at www.EntreeResourcesLtd.com . FURTHER INFORMATION David Jan Investor Relations Entrée Resources Ltd. Tel: 604-687-4777 | Toll Free: 1-866-368-7330 E-mail: djan@EntreeResourcesLtd.com This News Release contains forward-looking information within the meaning of applicable Canadian securities laws with respect to corporate strategies and plans; requirements for additional capital; uses of funds and projected expenditures; arbitration proceedings, including the potential benefits, timing and outcome of arbitration proceedings; the effect an arbitration decision may have on a commercial resolution of matters related to the JVA; the ability of the parties to reach a commercial resolution of matters related to the JVA; the Company’s ability to transfer the Shivee Tolgoi and Javhlant mining licences to OTLLC either in conjunction with finalization and execution of an alternative agreement(s) with OTLLC, or enforcement of certain provisions of the Earn-in Agreement and JVA pursuant to binding arbitration proceedings; timing and status of Oyu Tolgoi underground development; the expected timing of development work on the Shivee Tolgoi mining licence and the potential for delay if the Shivee Tolgoi mining licence cannot be transferred to OTLLC in a timely fashion; the nature of the ongoing relationship and interaction between OTLLC and Rio Tinto and the Government of Mongolia and Erdenes Oyu Tolgoi LLC with respect to the continued operation and development of Oyu Tolgoi; discussions with the Government of Mongolia, Erdenes Oyu Tolgoi LLC, Rio Tinto, and OTLLC on a range of issues including Entrée’s interest in the Entrée/Oyu Tolgoi joint venture property, the Shivee Tolgoi and Javhlant mining licences and certain material agreements; potential actions by the Government of Mongolia with respect to the Shivee Tolgoi and Javhlant mining licences and Entrée’s interest in the Entrée/Oyu Tolgoi joint venture property; plans for future exploration and/or development programs and budgets; permitting time lines; anticipated business activities; proposed acquisitions and dispositions of assets; and future financial performance. In certain cases, forward-looking information can be identified by words such as "plans", "expects" or "does not expect", "is expected", "budgeted", "scheduled", "estimates", "forecasts", "intends", "anticipates", or "does not anticipate" or "believes" or variations of such words and phrases or statements that certain actions, events or results "may", "could", "would", "might", "will be taken", "occur" or "be achieved". While the Company has based this forward-looking information on its expectations about future events as at the date that such information was prepared, the information is not a guarantee of Entrée’s future performance and is based on numerous assumptions regarding present and future business strategies; the correct interpretation of agreements, laws and regulations; the commencement and conclusion of arbitration proceedings, including the potential benefits, timing and outcome of arbitration proceedings; the potential benefits, timing and outcome of discussions with the Government of Mongolia, Erdenes Oyu Tolgoi LLC, OTLLC, and Rio Tinto; the future ownership of the Shivee Tolgoi and Javhlant mining licences; that the Company will continue to have timely access to detailed technical, financial, and operational information about the Entrée/Oyu Tolgoi joint venture property, the Oyu Tolgoi project, and government relations to enable the Company to properly assess, act on, and disclose material risks and opportunities as they arise; local and global economic conditions and the environment in which Entrée will operate in the future, including commodity prices, projected grades, projected dilution, anticipated capital and operating costs, including inflationary pressures thereon resulting in cost escalation, and anticipated future production and cash flows; the anticipated location of certain infrastructure and sequence of mining within and across panel boundaries; the construction and continued development of the Oyu Tolgoi underground mine; the status of Entrée’s relationship and interaction with the Government of Mongolia, Erdenes Oyu Tolgoi LLC, OTLLC, and Rio Tinto; and the Company’s ability to operate sustainably, its community relations, and its social licence to operate. With respect to the construction and continued development of the Oyu Tolgoi underground mine, important risks, uncertainties and factors which could cause actual results to differ materially from future results expressed or implied by such forward-looking information include, amongst others, the current economic climate and the significant volatility, uncertainty and disruption arising in connection with the Ukraine conflict; the nature of the ongoing relationship and interaction between OTLLC, Rio Tinto, Erdenes Oyu Tolgoi LLC and the Government of Mongolia with respect to the continued operation and development of Oyu Tolgoi; the continuation of undercutting in accordance with the mine plans and designs in OTFS23; applicable taxes and royalty rates; the future ownership of the Shivee Tolgoi and Javhlant mining licences; the amount of any future funding gap to complete the Oyu Tolgoi project and the availability and amount of potential sources of additional funding; the timing and cost of the construction and expansion of mining and processing facilities; inflationary pressures on prices for critical supplies for Oyu Tolgoi resulting in cost escalation; the ability of OTLLC or the Government of Mongolia to deliver a domestic power source for Oyu Tolgoi (or the availability of financing for OTLLC or the Government of Mongolia to construct such a source) within the required contractual timeframe; sources of interim power; OTLLC’s ability to operate sustainably, its community relations, and its social licence to operate in Mongolia; the impact of changes in, changes in interpretation to or changes in enforcement of, laws, regulations and government practises in Mongolia; delays, and the costs which would result from delays, in the development of the underground mine; the anticipated location of certain infrastructure and sequence of mining within and across panel boundaries; projected commodity prices and their market demand; and production estimates and the anticipated yearly production of copper, gold and silver at the Oyu Tolgoi underground mine. Other risks, uncertainties and factors which could cause actual results, performance or achievements of Entrée to differ materially from future results, performance or achievements expressed or implied by forward-looking information include, amongst others, unanticipated costs, expenses or liabilities; discrepancies between actual and estimated production, mineral reserves and resources and metallurgical recoveries; development plans for processing resources; matters relating to proposed exploration or expansion; mining operational and development risks, including geotechnical risks and ground conditions; regulatory restrictions (including environmental regulatory restrictions and liability); risks related to international operations, including legal and political risk in Mongolia; risks related to the potential impact of global or national health concerns; risks associated with changes in the attitudes of governments to foreign investment; risks associated with the conduct of joint ventures, including the ability to access detailed technical, financial and operational information; risks related to the Company’s significant shareholders, and whether they will exercise their rights or act in a manner that is consistent with the best interests of the Company and its other shareholders; inability to upgrade Inferred mineral resources to Indicated or Measured mineral resources; inability to convert mineral resources to mineral reserves; conclusions of economic evaluations; fluctuations in commodity prices and demand; changing foreign exchange rates; the speculative nature of mineral exploration; the global economic climate; dilution; share price volatility; activities, actions or assessments by Rio Tinto or OTLLC and by government stakeholders or authorities including Erdenes Oyu Tolgoi LLC and the Government of Mongolia; the availability of funding on reasonable terms; the impact of changes in interpretation to or changes in enforcement of laws, regulations and government practices, including laws, regulations and government practices with respect to mining, foreign investment, strategic deposits, royalties and taxation; the terms and timing of obtaining necessary environmental and other government approvals, consents and permits; the availability and cost of necessary items such as water, skilled labour, transportation and appropriate smelting and refining arrangements; unanticipated reclamation expenses; changes to assumptions as to the availability of electrical power, and the power rates used in operating cost estimates and financial analyses; changes to assumptions as to salvage values; ability to maintain the social licence to operate; accidents, labour disputes and other risks of the mining industry; global climate change; global conflicts; natural disasters; the impacts of civil unrest; the impacts of the Ukraine conflict; breaches of the Company’s policies, standards and procedures, laws or regulations; trade tensions between the world’s major economies; increasing societal and investor expectations, in particular with regard to environmental, social and governance considerations; the impacts of technological advancements; title disputes; limitations on insurance coverage; competition; loss of key employees; cyber security incidents; misjudgements in the course of preparing forward-looking information; and those factors discussed in the Company’s most recently filed MD&A and in the Company’s Annual Information Form for the financial year ended December 31, 2023, dated March 8, 2024 filed with the Canadian Securities Administrators and available at www.sedarplus.ca. Although the Company has attempted to identify important factors that could cause actual actions, events or results to differ materially from those described in forward-looking information, there may be other factors that cause actions, events or results not to be as anticipated, estimated or intended. There can be no assurance that forward-looking information will prove to be accurate, as actual results and future events could differ materially from those anticipated in such information. Accordingly, readers should not place undue reliance on forward-looking information. The Company is under no obligation to update or alter any forward-looking information except as required under applicable securities laws.

Human-generated data is.a renewable ressources Ilya Sutskever, a co-founder and former chief scientist of OpenAI claims, " Data is the fossil fuel of AI, and we used it all! " Is this aphorism true? This claim is made in the context of explaining that the limitation for AI (LLMs in particular) lies in the quality of data required to mimic intelligence—a limitation often referred to as the ‘entropy gap ’ . Entropy , in information theory, is the measure of uncertainty or unpredictability in a probabilistic system. In the context of AI, entropy quantifies the variability and richness of information within a dataset, reflecting how evenly distributed or diverse the data points are across possible outcomes. This diversity contributes to the uncertainty by ensuring the dataset encompasses a broad range of patterns or features for the model to learn from. I would define what I call the ‘entropy gap ’ as the difference between the variability and richness of patterns present in the training data and the variability required to mimic the complexity of human intelligence or real-world scenarios. In AI, this gap highlights a mismatch between the diversity and uncertainty present in the training data and the broader, more unpredictable diversity the model encounters when deployed in real-world environments. FBI Warns Gmail, Outlook, Apple Mail Users—Check 3 Things To Stop Attacks New Gmail Security Warning For 2.5 Billion—Second Attack Wave Incoming Stark Fed ‘Wake-Up Call’ Triggers $500 Billion Bitcoin And Crypto Price Rout The more significant this entropy gap, the less capable the model becomes in generalizing to unseen data, adapting to novel conditions, or achieving meaningful performance across diverse tasks. Bridging this gap requires not just more data but better-quality, contextually rich, and diverse datasets that reflect the complexity of the tasks AI is designed to perform. With this perspective in mind, saying ‘Data is the fossil fuel of AI, and we used it all!’ amounts to equating qualitative, contextually rich, and diverse datasets to a finite resource, akin to fossil fuels. This, however, is not true. Unlike fossil fuels, which are universally finite, the scarcity of quality data is highly context-dependent. In certain domains, such as rare disease research or specialized industrial applications, the availability of task-specific, quality data may be perceived as limited. Yet, this scarcity can often be addressed through methods like synthetic data generation, data augmentation, or transfer learning, which allow for the refinement or expansion of available data. It has to be acknowledged that these methods are not universally applicable. For instance, synthetic data may not fully capture the nuanced characteristics of real-world scenarios, and transfer learning can struggle to generalize across significantly different domains. Additionally, neither method adequately resolves issues of bias or fills gaps in highly specialized or ethically sensitive datasets, where precise and context-specific information is critical. These limitations underscore the importance of careful data curation and domain expertise in overcoming quality data scarcity. No matter what, human-generated data is inherently renewable resources for AI as it is continuously generated by human activity, technology, and the environment, unlike fossil fuels which are finite and non-renewable in all cases, regardless of circumstances. As the utility of human-generated data renewability depends on significant efforts in preprocessing, curation, and ensuring domain-specific relevance, raw data alone is often insufficient for AI and recent research demonstrates that synthetic data alone cannot serve as a replacement . Therefore the real challenge in AI related to data is not their depletion but the scarcity of useful, quality data for specific tasks. This creates bottlenecks that mimic the challenges of depletion but is not similar to it. Furthermore, what qualifies as 'useful' is highly task-specific and varies across domains, as it depends entirely on the context and goals of the AI system. Unlike the absolute scarcity of fossil fuels, the scarcity of useful data is a relative concept, shaped by the requirements of a particular application and the ability to preprocess, curate, or generate task-relevant datasets. A more apt aphorism might be this: data is the "drinking water" of AI. Not all data is immediately useful, just as not all water is potable. Raw data, like raw water, must undergo a process of purification to become valuable for AI systems. This purification involves data cleaning to remove noise and errors, labeling to add structure and meaning, and augmentation to enhance diversity and applicability. Only after these steps can data meet the specific quality and relevance standards required for AI applications, much like how water must be treated to become safe and effective for human consumption. This analogy underscores the importance of preparation and refinement in transforming raw data into a resource that fuels AI development. The real challenge in AI lies not in the renewability of data, which is continuously generated by design, but in transforming this data into useful, quality datasets to address scarcity. This process should include grappling with critical challenges such as identifying and mitigating biases, ensuring fairness, and navigating ethical considerations. Contextual specificity also plays a crucial role, as data that is relevant and useful in one domain may not be suitable for another. These complexities highlight the need for thoughtful curation, rigorous validation, and adherence to ethical principles in transforming raw data into a reliable foundation for AI systems—a process. When saying "Data is the fossil fuel of AI, and we used it all!" We make two mistakes: the first is underestimating or forgetting that there are indeed natural resources on which AI depends, which are truly fossil and therefore non-renewable. The second, arguably even more serious, is rendering invisible what creates the very conditions for the existence of the data AI needs to be trained on: humans. Data does not exist independently of human actions, decisions, or systems. Whether it's generated through explicit activities (e.g., social media posts) or implicitly (e.g., sensor data), humans are directly or indirectly responsible for creating the conditions for data generation. Since data originates from human activity, its existence and utility are contingent upon human inputs, creativity, and labor. As long as humans exist, so will data, including quality data. Data is not the ‘fossil fuel’ of AI, natural resources are, and hopefully human life won’t be. By definition, AI did not drink all the data, might not, but more importantly, should not, because of the natural resources that set a sustainable limitation we must take care of, to put Artificial Integrity over any Intelligence.

 

fortune 0x

2025-01-12
fortune ox pg soft

The outcome of the investigation could have significant implications for the digital advertising industry and the broader tech sector. If Google is found to have violated EU competition rules, it could face hefty fines and be required to change its advertising practices to level the playing field for competitors.The ongoing conflict in Syria has not only devastated the country but has also had far-reaching consequences that extend well beyond its borders. The situation in Syria has sparked a refugee crisis of unprecedented proportions and has also heightened the risk of terrorism both within the region and globally. Experts have been closely monitoring these developments and have warned of the escalating impact on both refugees and the spread of terrorism.The film's title, "Moonlight Before the Window, Bang!" hints at a mix of romance, mystery, and of course, uproarious comedy. The setting of the film is a quaint village where quirky characters and hilarious situations abound. As the story unfolds, the trio of comedians find themselves embroiled in a series of misadventures that will have audiences in stitches from start to finish.

Two senior members of the federal cabinet were in Florida Friday pushing Canada’s new border plan with Donald Trump’s transition team, a day after Trudeau himself appeared to finally push back at the president-elect over his social media posts about turning Canada into the 51st state. Both Trudeau and former Bank of Canada governor Mark Carney, who Trudeau has been courting to become Canada’s next finance minister, shared posts on X Thursday, a day after Trump’s latest jab at Canada in his Christmas Day message. It isn’t clear if Finance Minister Dominic LeBlanc, who has repeatedly insisted Trump’s 51st state references are a joke, will raise the issue with Trump’s team when he and Foreign Affairs Minister Mélanie Joly meet with them in Palm Beach. The two are there to discuss Canada’s new $1.3 billion border plan with just under four weeks left before Trump is sworn in again as president. He has threatened to impose a new 25 per cent import tariff on Canada and Mexico the same day over concerns about a trade imbalance, as well as illegal drugs and migration issues at the borders. The broad strokes of Canada’s plan were made public Dec. 17, including a new aerial intelligence task force to provide round-the-clock surveillance of the border, and improved efforts using technology and canine teams to seek out drugs in shipments leaving Canada LeBlanc’s spokesman, Jean-Sébastien Comeau, said the ministers will also emphasize the negative impacts of Trump’s threatened tariffs on both Canada and the U.S. Comeau said the ministers will build on the discussions that took place last month when Trudeau and LeBlanc met Trump at Mar-a-Lago just days after Trump first made his tariff threat. It was at that dinner on Nov. 29 when Trump first raised the notion of Canada becoming the 51st state, a comment LeBlanc has repeatedly since insisted was just a joke. But Trump has continued the quip repeatedly in various social media posts, including in his Christmas Day message when he said Canadians would pay lower taxes and have better military protection if they became Americans. He has taken to calling Trudeau “governor” instead of prime minister. Trudeau had not directly responded to any of the jabs, but on Thursday posted a link to a six-minute long video on YouTube from 2010 in which American journalist Tom Brokaw “explains Canada to Americans.” The video, which originally aired during the 2010 Vancouver Olympics, explains similarities between the two countries, including their founding based on immigration, their trading relationship and the actions of the Canadian Army in World War 2 and other modern conflicts. “In the long history of sovereign neighbours there has never been a relationship as close, productive and peaceful as the U.S. and Canada,” Brokaw says in the video. Trudeau did not expand about why he posted a link to the video, posting it only with the words “some information about Canada for Americans.” Carney, who is at the centre of some of Trudeau’s recent domestic political troubles, also called out Trump’s antics on X Thursday, calling it “casual disrespect” and “carrying the ‘joke’ too far.” “Time to call it out, stand up for Canada, and build a true North American partnership,” said Carney, who Trudeau was courting to join his cabinet before Chrystia Freeland resigned as finance minister last week. Freeland’s sudden departure, three days after Trudeau informed her he would be firing her as finance minister in favour of Carney, left Trudeau’s leadership even more bruised than it already was. Despite the expectation Carney would assume the role, he did not and has not made any statements about it. LeBlanc was sworn in as finance minister instead the same day Freeland quit. More than two dozen Liberal MPs have publicly called on Trudeau to resign as leader, and Trudeau is said to be taking the holidays to think about his next steps. He is currently vacationing in British Columbia."In moments of adversity, that's when you truly see what a team is made of," Gobert reflected. "We have faced our fair share of challenges, but we have never wavered in our belief in each other. Our shared experiences have taught us resilience, perseverance, and the importance of sticking together through thick and thin."

One of the main reasons why Lautaro Martinez missed out on being considered for the Double Crown and the Golden Boot is the intense competition in the football world. With so many exceptional players showcasing their talent week in and week out, the competition for these awards is incredibly tough. Players like Lionel Messi, Cristiano Ronaldo, Robert Lewandowski, and Kylian Mbappe are all vying for the top spot, making it difficult for anyone else to break through.

Looking ahead, Sony has ambitious plans to further leverage its gaming expertise and capitalize on emerging trends in the industry. The company's focus on cloud gaming, streaming services, and cross-platform integration signals its commitment to staying at the forefront of innovation and meeting the evolving needs of gamers.As fans eagerly await the next set of fixtures and results, the English Premier League continues to captivate audiences around the world with its thrilling action and passionate rivalries. Stay tuned as the race for the title unfolds, and the teams fight for supremacy in one of the most prestigious leagues in world football.However, Ma also issued a word of caution, warning of the challenges that come with the rapid advancement of AI technology. He stressed the need for ethical considerations and responsible development of AI to ensure that it benefits society as a whole. Ma acknowledged concerns about job displacement and the widening technology gap, calling for proactive measures to address these issues and create a more inclusive future for all.AP Trending SummaryBrief at 6:06 p.m. EST

As the "Rail + Land" demonstration line gets underway, stakeholders from government, business, and community sectors are working together to ensure the success of the project. Through comprehensive planning, stakeholder engagement, and strategic investment, Beijing is laying the foundation for a more connected, vibrant, and resilient urban sub-center.

Title: Greenwood Scores 10 Goals in 14 Matches in Ligue 1 - Only Ibrahimovic and Neymar Achieved Faster in the 21st Century

Man City blows 3-goal lead and gets booed by fans in draw with Feyenoord in Champions League

The Chinese Basketball Association (CBA) recently announced the Best Lineup of the 15th round of the regular season, with five standout players making the cut. Among them are experienced veterans and rising stars, showcasing the depth of talent in the league.Flyers’ Matvei Michkov scores game-winning goal in overtime against Blackhawks

Alphabet stock hits record high on Google's new AI model, Gemini 2.0In a shocking and tragic turn of events, the CEO of a prominent American insurance company was gunned down in broad daylight on the streets of a bustling city. The ruthless act sent shockwaves through the community and left many questioning the safety and security of public spaces.

When it comes to innovative design and cutting-edge technology, Sony has always been a pioneer in the world of gaming. The recently released PS5 Pro console has captured the attention of gamers worldwide with its sleek and futuristic design. But did you know that the inspiration behind this iconic design may have come from an unlikely source – a gamer's bathroom heater?

 

fortuner q vs v

2025-01-13
fortune ox pg
fortune ox pg The gunman who stalked and killed UnitedHealthcare CEO Brian Thompson fled New York City by bus, police officials told CNN on Friday. Video of the suspected shooter leaving the scene of the shooting Wednesday showed him riding a bicycle to Central Park and later taking a taxi cab to a bus depot, Chief of Detectives Joseph Kenny told CNN. Here's the latest: The gunman who killed the CEO of the largest U.S. health insurer may have fled the city on a bus, New York City police officials told CNN on Friday. Video of the suspected shooter leaving the scene of the shooting Wednesday showed him riding a bicycle to Central Park and later taking a taxi cab to a bus depot, Chief of Detectives Joseph Kenny told CNN. “We have reason to believe that the person in question has left New York City,” Commissioner Jessica Tisch said. The gunman who killed the CEO of the largest U.S. health insurer made sure to wear a mask during the shooting yet left a trail of evidence in view of the nation’s biggest city and its network of security cameras that have aided authorities piecing together his movements and his identity. A law enforcement official said Friday that new surveillance footage shows the suspect riding the subway and visiting establishments in Manhattan and provided more clues about his actions in the days before he ambushed UnitedHealthcare CEO Brian Thompson . The gunman’s whereabouts and identity remain unknown Friday, as did the reason for Wednesday’s killing. New York City police say evidence firmly points to it being a targeted attack . ▶ Read more about the search for the gunman In many companies, investor meetings like the one UnitedHealthcare CEO Brian Thompson was walking to when he was fatally shot are viewed as very risky because details on the location and who will be speaking are highly publicized. “It gives people an opportunity to arrive well in advance and take a look at the room, take a look at how people would probably come and go out of a location,” said Dave Komendat, president of DSKomendat Risk Management Services, which is based in the greater Seattle area. Some firms respond by beefing up security. For example, tech companies routinely require everyone attending a major event, such as Apple’s annual unveiling of the next iPhone or a shareholder meeting, to go through airport-style security checkpoints before entering. Others forgo in-person meetings with shareholders. ▶ Read more about how companies protect their leaders Those images include New York’s subway system, a law enforcement official said. In establishments where the person was captured on camera, he always appeared to pay with cash, the official said. The official wasn’t authorized to discuss details of the ongoing investigation and spoke to The Associated Press on condition of anonymity. — Mike Balsamo Medica, a Minnesota-based nonprofit health care firm that serves 1.5 million customers in 12 states, said it’s temporarily closing all six locations. The firm has offices in Minnesota, Wisconsin, Nebraska and North Dakota, and employs about 3,000 people. Employees will work from home, Medica spokesman Greg Bury said in an email Friday. “The safety of Medica employees is our top priority and we have increased security both for all of our employees,” a statement from Medica said. “Although we have received no specific threats related to our campuses, our office buildings will be temporarily closed out of an abundance of caution.” Bury also said biographical information on the company’s executives was taken down from its website as a precaution. The insurer cited the fatal shooting of UnitedHealthcare CEO Brian Thompson in its announcement about the Dec. 12 event. “All of us at Centene are deeply saddened by Brian Thompson’s death and want to express our support for all of those affected. Health insurance is a big industry and a small community; many members of the CenTeam crossed paths with Brian during their careers,” Centene CEO Sarah M. London said in a news release. “He was a person with a deep sense of empathy and clear passion for improving access to care. Our hearts are with his family and his colleagues during this difficult time.” Centene Corp. has grown in recent years to become the largest insurer in Medicaid, the state- and federally funded program that covers care for people with low incomes. Insurers manage Medicaid coverage for states, and Centene has more than 13 million people enrolled in that coverage. The insurance company also said it’s focused on ensuring the safety of employees and assisting investigators. “While our hearts are broken, we have been touched by the huge outpouring of kindness and support in the hours since this horrific crime took place,” the company said. But he said Friday that he’s confident police will arrest the shooter. “We are on the right road to apprehend him and bring him to justice,” Adams said on TV station WPIX. Later, it removed their names and biographies entirely. Police and federal agents have been collecting information from Greyhound in an attempt to identify the suspect and are working to determine whether he purchased the ticket to New York in late November, a law enforcement official said. Investigators were also trying to obtain additional information from a cellphone recovered from a pedestrian plaza through which the shooter fled. The fatal shooting of Brian Thompson while walking alone on a New York City sidewalk has put a spotlight on the widely varied approaches companies take to protect their leaders against threats. Experts say today’s political, economic and technological climate is only going to make the job of evaluating threats against executives and taking action to protect them even more difficult, experts say. Some organizations have a protective intelligence group that uses digital tools such as machine learning or artificial intelligence to comb through online comments to detect threats not only on social media platforms such as X but also on the dark web, says Komendat. They look for what’s being said about the company, its employees and its leadership to uncover risks. ▶ Read more about the steps companies take to protect their leadership Police said Thursday they found a water bottle and protein bar wrapper from a trash can near the scene of the ambush and think the suspect bought them from a Starbucks minutes before the shooting. The items were being tested by the city’s medical examiner.Recruiters say Wall Street firms are planning to hire more tech talent next year. Jobs at AI companies like Nvidia and OpenAI, or ones that work with their products, are highly sought after. Recruiters Ben Hodzic and Matt Stabile outline how jobseekers can stand out in the hiring process. It's been a tough year for software engineers on the job market, but one bright spot is starting to emerge on Wall Street for technologists looking for a new gig. Banks, hedge funds, and investment firms bullish on AI are expected to hire more tech talent in the new year, according to two headhunters who recruit engineers and data scientists for finance firms. That's good news for jobseekers in these sectors, which were long considered to be recession-proof careers but were hit this year with waves of layoffs , job freezes, and hiring cutbacks . Ben Hodzic, a managing director at recruitment firm Selby Jennings who finds talent for hedge funds and investment banks, told Business Insider there's "a lot of optimism" around AI in financial services. "Financial services institutions are slowly adopting their workflows and they've come to a reality where you need the right talent to actually build and implement and manage those products," he said. In some cases, the hiring spree is already happening. Jamie Dimon, the boss of America's biggest bank JPMorgan Chase, said earlier this year that he's anticipating adding thousands of jobs related to AI in the next few years. Hedge fund and proprietary-trading firms are shelling out as much as $350,000 in annual salaries for top-tier AI researchers and engineers. Meanwhile, private-equity firms have been "clamoring" to hire AI operating executives to improve their portfolio companies. Hodzic said the rosier outlook stems from a desire to build AI tools in-house and boost worker productivity in areas like wealth advisory , investment banking , and trading . More clarity on the direction of macroeconomic factors, like inflation and the impacts of the US election, is also providing tailwinds for banks looking to invest in human capital in 2025, he said. While AI is expected to drive an uptick in tech hiring, the technology is also changing what it takes to get a tech job on Wall Street. BI spoke with recruiters to find out how candidates should adapt and what they need to do to stand out. They outlined some of the industry's most in-demand skills, explained why having Big Tech experience might not get you that far anymore, and shared the companies that hiring managers want to see on resumes. They declined to disclose specific client activity due to privacy agreements. Here's what software engineers need to know to get hired on Wall Street

Syria's Druze hope for better future without Assad

After absorbing their worst defeat of the year , the San Jose Sharks will be looking for a response Saturday against the Florida Panthers. The Sharks reverted to some bad habits during their 8-1 loss to the Tampa Bay Lightning on Thursday, as they strayed from their identity and were generally outworked from start to finish. The seven-goal loss was the Sharks’ most lopsided of the season, unceremoniously ending a three-game winning streak. While the Sharks have been playing better hockey l ately, the loss in Tampa offered a blunt reminder that they can still get embarrassed when their details and competitive level are not where they need to be, particularly against playoff-caliber teams. “Break out pucks, defend hard, box out, you name it,” Sharks coach Ryan Warsofsky told reporters when asked about the defense’s shortcomings. “What a defenseman’s responsibilities are, we could have done a lot better.” The forward group wasn’t let off the hook, either. “Didn’t pay a price,” Warsofsky said. “You watch (the Lightning), they’re blocking shots. (Mikey) Eyssimont), (Luke) Glendining (when it’s) 8-1. And that’s the price to pay to win games in this league and that’s what we’ve got to learn.” The Sharks have done a fairly good job this season of responding after blowout defeats. After an 8-3 road loss to the Winnipeg Jets on Oct. 18, they returned home and played a much more competitive game two days later against the Colorado Avalanche in a 4-1 loss. Two days after getting blown out 7-3 by the Vegas Golden Knights on Oct. 26, the Sharks erased a three-goal deficit in the final five minutes of the third period against the Utah Hockey Club and won 5-4 in overtime. Now the Sharks face the reigning Stanley Cup champion Panthers, who, before Friday, were the third-highest scoring team in the NHL at 3.78 goals per game. Florida entered Friday tied for first place in the Atlantic Division with the Toronto Maple Leafs. “I’m not deflated. It’s an 82-game season,” Sharks defenseman Mario Ferraro said after Thursday’s loss. “We’ve got another game in a couple of days and another opportunity to play a really good hockey team and surprise them. So it’s not deflating, but it’s definitely not something that’s acceptable, so we’ve got to be better.” The Sharks have lost 10 straight games to the Panthers, with their last victory in South Florida coming on Dec.1, 2017. The Sharks might have to face the Panthers without rookie forward Will Smith, who did not practice Friday. Warsofsky told San Jose Hockey Now that Smith is day-to-day with an upper-body injury, although it remained unclear when the 19-year-old was injured. Against the Lightning, Smith played late into the third period and finished with 15:50 in ice time. Smith has 11 points in 23 games this season and has recently been playing on a line with Mikael Granlund and Klim Kostin. Regardless of who plays against the Panthers, the Sharks still need to prove that they can consistently produce a strong performance against quality opponents. “We’ll obviously take a look at everything and talk within the group and figure it out,” Sharks winger Luke Kunin said, “so it doesn’t happen again.” GOODROW RETURNS: Forward Barclay Goodrow, who has been on injured reserve since Nov. 28 with an upper-body ailment, skated Friday, per San Jose Hockey Now. Goodrow was injured by a high hit from Ridly Greig in the Sharks’ Nov. 27 game against the Ottawa Senators. He is questionable to play against the Panthers. TEDDY BEAR TOSS: The San Jose Barracuda are hosting its annual Teddy Bear Toss at Tech CU Arena on Saturday when it plays the Coachella Valley Firebirds at 6 p.m. Fans are urged to bring stuffed animals to the game and throw them on the ice after the Barracuda scores its first goal. The Barracuda will then distribute some of the stuffed animals to children at local Kaiser Permanente hospitals, as well as other kids who might not get a gift during this time of year. The AHL franchise is also joining forces with San Jose-based Working Partnerships USA, which, per the team, helps to tackle “the root causes of inequality and poverty by leading collaborative campaigns for quality jobs, healthy communities, equitable growth, and a vibrant democracy.” For Saturday’s game, the Barracuda will also wear specialty jerseys that will be auctioned off after the game, with part of the proceeds going to Working Partnerships. The team is also giving away Barracuda stockings to the first 1,500 fans in the building.

THE barmy £1 trillion Neom project in Saudi Arabia has revealed its newest addition of a vast hollow skyscraper. Despite unveiling new ultra-luxurious hotels , restaurants and yacht marinas on the daily, the Neom project has been exposed for the deaths of over 21,000 workers since it began. The newly revealed luxury development plans on the coast of the Gulf of Aqaba, dubbed Zardun, is made up of four buildings and looks to provide a so-called "peaceful" retreat for guests. Despite its pledge to bring tranquillity, some visitors may think this is hard to find knowing it could have been the place where thousands of workers died under dangerous and inhumane working conditions. Zardun spans a whopping four square kilometres, set on a restored semi-desert landscape. It sports angular sections within the middle of the skyscraper which is said to draw influence from the changing natural landscape around it. read more world news Among the hollow skyscraper are three other architectural compounds which will all total 100 rooms and suites for big spenders as well as an experience centre. And for guests it will offer trekking, mountain biking, rock climbing, among various other sports and leisure. But the dark underbelly of the location imagines bloodshed and slaves. Zardun is part of Magna - one of Neom's mega regions. Most read in The Sun Other regions included in the heavily criticised project include Trojena, The Line, Sindalah and Oxagon. Despite human life not seeming to be considered, the plans say they have so-called "environmental stewardship" in mind. It is said to accommodate various habitats and make it easier to reintroduce native plants, animals and tree species to the landscape. The Saudi government's focus on the luxury market is said to be an attempt to distinguish itself from Dubai in the United Arab Emirates. But with serious allegations of missed payments, illegal working hours and a number of clear human rights violations made, the future success of the mega-project is unclear. 21,000 worker deaths have occurred in the years since the Crown Prince launched the project, shocking statistics claim. Staff have complained of feeling like "trapped slaves" and "beggars" in the country. Serious allegations of missed payments, working illegal hours and a number of clear human rights violations have all been made. The first part of Saudia Arabia's £1 trillion Neom project was complete in October - with a luxurious Red Sea resort opening its doors to the world's elite. Terrified workers and the heartbroken family members of workers who have died since moving to Saudi have revealed the horrors they've faced in recent years in ITV 's latest expose. Dubbed "Kingdom Uncovered: Inside Saudi Arabia" the documentary speaks on the deadly issues experienced firsthand for many. It goes inside the illegal practices and terrible violations many say are being committed each day under the guise of constructing some of the world's priciest building projects. Crown Prince Mohammed bin Salman , has been at the forefront of trying to develop the oil state into a global tourism hub. He has splashed trillions to create his Saudi Vision 2030 project which features complexes sch as the flagship NEOM which includes fantasy ideas such as The Line. Despite the luxury plans for the ambitious builds human rights groups have expressed many concerns over the massive construction plans . With fears that migrant labour will be exploited and many locals would be displaced. Saudi Arabia has also been hit with serious allegations claiming a significant number of migrants working in construction have disappeared. Emerging reports allege that as many as 100,000 migrant workers have gone missing during the construction of Neom. One worker revealed in the documentary that he is often made to work 16-hour days helping to build a high-speed train tunnel for The Line. READ MORE SUN STORIES Over just one seven-day week the worker says he can do upwards of 84 hours. Saudi law strictly states that no one should do more than 60 hours a week. BY Juliana Cruz Lima, Foreign News Reporter Saudi Arabia's NEOM project, despite its ambitious vision, has been criticized for several major blunders that have raised concerns about its feasibility, ethics, and overall execution. Here are the top five major blunders associated with the project: Forced Displacement of Indigenous Communities : One of the most significant controversies surrounding NEOM is the forced displacement of the Huwaitat tribe. This indigenous community, which has lived in the area for centuries, was forcibly removed from their ancestral lands to make way for the development of the mega-city. The Saudi government's crackdown on those who resisted, including the killing of a tribal leader, Abdul Rahim al-Howeiti, has drawn widespread condemnation from human rights organisations. This blunder not only sparked international outrage but also tainted NEOM's image as a forward-thinking, humane project. Environmental Impact and Sustainability Concerns : NEOM has been marketed as an environmentally sustainable city, but the environmental impact of such a massive development is a major concern. The project's scale—covering over 26,500 square kilometers—poses significant risks to local ecosystems, particularly in the Red Sea, which is home to rich marine biodiversity. Critics argue that the construction of artificial islands and extensive urbanisation could lead to irreversible ecological damage. The enormous water and energy demands required to maintain a green city in the desert also raise questions about the project's sustainability. Economic Viability and Cost Overruns : NEOM is one of the most expensive development projects in history. But there are serious doubts about its economic viability. Critics question whether the project can attract the necessary foreign investment and whether it will generate sufficient returns to justify the enormous expenditure. The economic risks are further compounded by potential cost overruns and delays, which are common in megaprojects of this scale. This financial gamble has led some to worry that NEOM could become a costly white elephant if it fails to meet its ambitious goals. Technological Overreach and Ethical Concerns : NEOM is envisioned as a high-tech city, heavily reliant on artificial intelligence, robotics, and extensive surveillance systems. While this technological ambition is central to NEOM's identity, it also raises significant ethical concerns. The level of surveillance planned for the city could lead to unprecedented control over residents' lives, sparking fears about privacy and civil liberties. The lack of transparency about how AI will be used, coupled with concerns about job displacement, has also led to criticism that NEOM’s technological vision may be more dystopian than utopian. Cultural and Social Disconnect : NEOM’s vision of a futuristic, liberalized society clashes sharply with Saudi Arabia's deeply conservative cultural norms. The project plans to introduce mixed-gender sports, entertainment events, and other liberal lifestyle elements that are rare in the kingdom. This cultural shift has raised concerns about a potential clash between NEOM's globalised vision and the traditional values of Saudi society. The disconnect between the project's ambitions and the broader cultural context has led to skepticism about whether NEOM can truly integrate into Saudi Arabia's social fabric without causing significant friction.No. 19 Illinois 75, Md.-Eastern Shore 55

Republicans rally around Hegseth, Trump's Pentagon pick, as Gaetz withdraws for attorney generalPALM BEACH GARDENS, Fla. , Dec. 6, 2024 /PRNewswire/ -- Carrier Global Corporation (NYSE: CARR), global leader in intelligent climate and energy solutions, announced today that its Board of Directors declared a quarterly dividend of $0.225 per outstanding share of Carrier common stock. The dividend will be payable on February 7, 2025 to shareowners of record at the close of business on December 20, 2024 . "Today's 18% dividend increase further demonstrates our commitment to disciplined capital allocation," said Carrier Chairman & CEO David Gitlin . "After successfully executing on our transformation, we remain laser-focused on delivering outsized value for our customers, employees, and shareowners." Carrier Carrier Global Corporation, global leader in intelligent climate and energy solutions, is committed to creating solutions that matter for people and our planet for generations to come. From the beginning, we've led in inventing new technologies and entirely new industries. Today, we continue to lead because we have a world-class, diverse workforce that puts the customer at the center of everything we do. For more information, visit corporate.carrier.com or follow Carrier on social media at @Carrier . Cautionary Statement : This communication contains statements which, to the extent they are not statements of historical or present fact, constitute "forward-looking statements" under the securities laws. These forward-looking statements are intended to provide management's current expectations or plans for Carrier's future payment of a dividend, based on assumptions currently believed to be valid. Forward-looking statements can be identified by the use of words such as "believe," "expect," "expectations," "plans," "strategy," "prospects," "estimate," "project," "target," "anticipate," "will," "should," "see," "guidance," "outlook," "confident," "scenario" and other words of similar meaning in connection with a discussion of future operating or financial performance. Forward-looking statements may include, among other things, statements relating to future sales, earnings, cash flow, results of operations, uses of cash, share repurchases, tax rates and other measures of financial performance or potential future plans, strategies or transactions of Carrier, Carrier's plans with respect to its indebtedness and other statements that are not historical facts. All forward-looking statements involve risks, uncertainties and other factors that may cause actual results to differ materially from those expressed or implied in the forward-looking statements. For additional information on identifying factors that may cause actual results to vary materially from those stated in forward-looking statements, see Carrier's reports on Forms 10-K, 10-Q and 8-K filed with or furnished to the U.S. Securities and Exchange Commission from time to time. Any forward-looking statement speaks only as of the date on which it is made, and Carrier assumes no obligation to update or revise such statement, whether as a result of new information, future events or otherwise, except as required by applicable law. CARR-IR Contact: Media Inquiries Jason Shockley 561-542-0207 Jason.Shockley@carrier.com Investor Relations Michael Rednor 561-365-2020 Michael.Rednor@carrier.com View original content to download multimedia: https://www.prnewswire.com/news-releases/carrier-board-of-directors-announces-an-18-percent-increase-in-quarterly-dividend-to-0-225-per-share-302324348.html SOURCE Carrier Global Corporation

Affirmed Housing Completes 96 New Affordable Apartment Homes in San Marcos

Al-Sisi urges continued efforts to modernize Egypt’s education systemIraq selects Vodafone for national 5G mobile license project15K+ Mining Rigs Sold as BlockDAG’s PoW Mining Popularity Explodes; Ethereum Price Prediction Optimistic & AVAX SlidesArticle content EDMONTON — Leaders of the Prairie provinces are urging Canada to act on American concerns over illegal cross-border traffic of people and drugs to stave off the looming threat of 25 per cent tariffs. Recommended Videos Alberta Premier Danielle Smith, Saskatchewan Premier Scott Moe, and Manitoba Premier Wab Kinew said Tuesday that Canada must do better to address the concerns of its largest trading partner. Incoming U.S. president Donald Trump promised Monday to impose the tariffs on his first day in office in January. He said he would keep the tariffs in place until Canada and Mexico stop illegal border crossings and prevent drugs such as fentanyl from entering the U.S. Kinew said 25 per cent tariffs would mean a recession for his province and that Canada needs to show the new U.S. administration it’s serious about security and tackling the drug crisis. He said it begins with Canada’s pledge to NATO allies to spend two per cent of its gross domestic product on defence by 2032. “First and foremost, (it’s about) hitting that target of two per cent spending on defence,” said Kinew. “That gets us in the game just to be taken seriously as a security partner with the U.S. If we don’t do it, it’s going to become a trade problem.” In a video posted to social media, Alberta’s premier said Canada needs to reach its pledged commitment on defence. “If their trade partners are looking to be free riders on American security interests, that’s also going to harm the relationship,” Smith said, adding, “You also have to take seriously the asylum seekers.” Canada and the U.S. share a $188 billion trade partnership that supports countless jobs and communities across our country. With a new U.S. President incoming, it’s critical we address any concerns head-on to protect and strengthen this vital relationship. pic.twitter.com/v8PgphjgBl Smith added in another post that the incoming Trump administration has “valid concerns related to illegal activities” at the border. The U.S. is Alberta’s largest trading partner, with $188 billion in bilateral trade in 2023. Last year, energy products accounted for more than 80 per cent of that trade, or about $134 billion. The incoming US @realDonaldTrump administration has valid concerns related to illegal activities at our shared border. We are calling on the federal government to work with the incoming administration to resolve these issues immediately, thereby avoiding any unnecessary tariffs... Smith said the vast majority of Alberta’s energy exports to the U.S. are “delivered through secure and safe pipelines,” which “do not in any way contribute to these illegal activities.” In Saskatchewan, Moe said he understands Trump’s position on border security. “As Canadians, we can all benefit from additional border security stopping the flow of illegal drugs and migrants across our borders,” he said in a social media post. A 25% tariff proposed by President-elect Donald Trump would be harmful to our Saskatchewan export-based economy and will drive up prices on both sides of the border. The Saskatchewan government is talking to the incoming USA administration and working alongside Canada’s Premiers... pic.twitter.com/Pnhq5uxd5C He said his province plans to use all levers at its disposal to stop the tariffs and will approach the U.S. directly. Moe added the proposed tariffs would hurt Saskatchewan’s export-based economy and drive up prices on both sides of the border. Speaking to CTV early Tuesday, Moe said his government would represent Saskatchewan interests alongside the federal government, fellow premiers “and on our own when necessary.” “We have a strong relationship with a number of the administration that President Trump has appointed,” Moe said. In 2023, Saskatchewan’s exports to the U.S. amounted to almost $27 billion after hitting a record high of $29 billion in 2022. Its top exports include crude oil, potash and canola. Prime Minister Justin Trudeau has convened an emergency meeting for Wednesday with the country’s premiers to discuss the tariffs. — With files from Jeremy Simes in Regina and Brittany Hobson in Winnipeg

Share a virtual helicopter with fair dinkum Hollywood royalty as the secrets of ancient landscapes are conquered by high-tech drones in Australia's vast, rugged northwest. or signup to continue reading "It gets under your skin. It's one of the last truly great wildernesses left on Earth," Luke Hemsworth, older brother to Liam and Chris, tells fellow explorers on a virtual flight into the Kimberley region. Isolation has helped to preserve the remote part of Western Australia as a biodiversity hotspot and keeper of deep-time stories. It is home to some of the world's biggest tides, rock formations that date back two billion years, and the world's oldest rock art galleries that have layers of images where artists have returned several thousand years after the first painters. Hemsworth says the area has always had an "inexplicable pull" for him, so when he finished high school in Melbourne he flew to the remote northwest region of Australia to work on a pearl farm and explore. He was also an obvious choice for the latest ground-breaking virtual reality (VR) documentary from award-winning Australian filmmaker Briege Whitehead. "There really is nowhere else like it on the planet," Hemsworth says, as narrator of The Great Kimberley Wilderness by White Spark Pictures. Whitehead says it took four years to create the 35-minute film, the first of a three-film deal with the National Museum of Australia, the Western Australian Museum, Tāmaki Paenga Hira Auckland War Memorial Museum and ScreenWest. "There's a lot of innovative technology that's going into it ... for the night-time lapses in particular," she said. A scene where the Milky Way perfectly aligns within Cathedral Gorge, which only happens for three nights of the year, required custom-built equipment they developed with tech giant Canon and local firm Camera Electronic. Otherwise, the cameras used for 360-degree filming look like giant soccer balls, with eight lenses around them to create the sense of immersion. "It is essentially eight cameras in one, to achieve shots like that," Whitehead explained. Nor was there a drone set-up available off the shelf that could carry a 6.5kg, 360-degree camera so they customised that with internationally renowned , which also worked with environmentalist Bob Brown on his recent film The Giants. White Spark Pictures says it is the first in the world to produce high-resolution video that is 360-degree and 3D, with drone shots that are then stabilised using their own technology. "We shoot everything between 8K and 12K, so as VR headsets get better and better, it's already future-proofed," Whitehead said. "We do all our sound mixing at Warner Bros in LA, and this was the first film that we've done theatrical VR sound mix - it's a first in the world for this medium, which is also why it sounds so amazing." Working with more than 11 Indigenous communities, Whitehead said creating the sense of presence required a "very fine balance" to be struck in what stories they wanted to tell - to simultaneously avert future foot traffic and welcome people to explore in the right way. The audience can journey to the three-tiered waterfalls in Carr-Boyd Ranges, filmed on Miriuwung Country, and to Oomari (King George Falls), filmed on Balanggarra Country, where a tourist could not go for cultural reasons. Aerial views of the pindan cliffs coastline at Walmadany (James Price Point), filmed on Jabirr Jabirr Country, take virtual explorers to the stunning headland north of Broome that was once a proposed location for a gas terminal. White Spark Pictures' head of operations Benn Ellard said the one thing they wanted people to take away from the film was a sense of belonging. "VR as a medium is a powerful tool for empathy ... by building a connection to country and to have people care for country as if it was their own," he said. The doco has debuted in Perth and opened on Boxing Day at the National Museum of Australia in Canberra. DAILY Today's top stories curated by our news team. WEEKDAYS Grab a quick bite of today's latest news from around the region and the nation. WEEKLY The latest news, results & expert analysis. WEEKDAYS Catch up on the news of the day and unwind with great reading for your evening. WEEKLY Get the editor's insights: what's happening & why it matters. WEEKLY Love footy? We've got all the action covered. WEEKLY Every Saturday and Tuesday, explore destinations deals, tips & travel writing to transport you around the globe. WEEKLY Going out or staying in? Find out what's on. WEEKDAYS Sharp. Close to the ground. Digging deep. Your weekday morning newsletter on national affairs, politics and more. TWICE WEEKLY Your essential national news digest: all the big issues on Wednesday and great reading every Saturday. WEEKLY Get news, reviews and expert insights every Thursday from CarExpert, ACM's exclusive motoring partner. TWICE WEEKLY Get real, Australia! Let the ACM network's editors and journalists bring you news and views from all over. AS IT HAPPENS Be the first to know when news breaks. DAILY Your digital replica of Today's Paper. Ready to read from 5am! DAILY Test your skills with interactive crosswords, sudoku & trivia. Fresh daily! Advertisement Advertisement

After drubbing, San Jose Sharks look for response in South Florida《TAIPEI TIMES》 Santa’s reindeer actually female: ministry quiz

Jatra Pala, a tradition rooted in rural winters

 

7 fortune

2025-01-13
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AS Makes Predictions for Real Madrid's Starting Lineup in the Champions League: Mbappe, Modric Included, Chouna-Améni at Center Back

In addition to the cooling temperatures, the cold air mass is also expected to improve air quality in the region. With the arrival of cleaner, fresher air, residents can breathe easier and enjoy clearer skies, free from the haze and pollution that often accompany high temperatures.Overall, the launch of the "Factory Direct Sales" program under the "Spring Dawn Initiative" signals a positive shift towards a more efficient and consumer-centric retail model. With its emphasis on transparency, quality, and sustainability, the program is poised to create a win-win situation for both consumers and manufacturers, setting a new standard for how products are bought and sold in the new economy.

Moments: Lily's Moments feed is a vibrant collection of snapshots from her daily life. From attending trendy art exhibitions to exploring new cafe spots in the city, her photos invite her friends to share in her experiences. She also shares thought-provoking quotes and articles on topics ranging from self-care to sustainability.Meta, the parent company of Facebook, is reportedly planning to add displays to its popular Ray-Ban smart glasses, marking a significant step towards integrating augmented reality (AR) into everyday eyewear. This move comes as Meta doubles down on its push to develop “AI-native” devices, with the aim of eventually replacing smartphones as our primary computing platform. According to a recent report by the Financial Times, these displays could be incorporated into a new iteration of the Ray-Ban glasses as early as the second half of 2025. While the exact specifications remain under wraps, sources suggest that the screens will likely be small and primarily used for displaying notifications or responses from Meta’s AI assistant. This suggests that Meta is taking a gradual approach to AR integration , focusing on enhancing existing functionalities rather than creating a full-blown mixed-reality experience right away. This news is particularly exciting because it signals a potential acceleration of Meta’s AR ambitions. Just a few months ago, at Meta Connect 2024, the company unveiled its prototype for “Orion,” a more advanced AR glasses device with holographic displays and deeper AI integration. While it was initially unclear whether Orion would ever see the light of day as a commercial product, the positive response it garnered seems to have invigorated Meta’s AR development efforts. Why is Meta betting big on AR glasses? The answer lies in their vision of the future of computing. Imagine a world where you no longer need to pull out your smartphone to check notifications, get directions, or access information. Instead, all of this would be seamlessly displayed in your field of view through a pair of stylish glasses. This is the promise of AR, and Meta believes it has the potential to revolutionize how we interact with technology and the world around us. What can we expect from these new Ray-Ban glasses? While details are still scarce, here are some potential features based on current trends and Meta’s own research: The Road to Mass Adoption: Challenges and Opportunities While the potential of AR glasses is undeniable, there are still several hurdles to overcome before they become mainstream: Despite these challenges, Meta’s commitment to AR is evident. By starting with small, incremental upgrades to its existing Ray-Ban line, Meta is cleverly laying the groundwork for mass adoption. The familiarity and popularity of the Ray-Ban brand could help overcome some of the social barriers associated with wearing tech-infused glasses. Additionally, by focusing on practical applications like notifications and AI assistance, Meta is demonstrating the real-world value of AR in a way that resonates with consumers. My Personal Take As someone who has been following the development of AR for years, I’m incredibly excited about the prospect of Meta’s Ray-Ban glasses with displays. I believe that wearable technology has the potential to be far more intuitive and integrated into our lives than smartphones, and AR glasses are a crucial step in that direction. I’m particularly interested in seeing how Meta addresses the challenges of battery life and social acceptance. If they can crack those nuts, I think we could be on the cusp of a major shift in how we interact with technology. Meta’s reported plans to add displays to its Ray-Ban glasses represent a significant milestone in the evolution of AR. By combining the style and familiarity of Ray-Ban with the power of AI and augmented reality, Meta is poised to bring this technology to the masses. While challenges remain, the future of AR looks brighter than ever, and I, for one, can’t wait to see what Meta has in store for us next.In the post-game interviews, Zeng Fanbo and Solomon humbly credited their teammates and coaching staff for the win, emphasizing the importance of teamwork and unity in achieving success on the court. Their sportsmanship and humility off the court only added to their appeal as fan favorites and role models for aspiring young basketball players.

For Barcelona, the failure to secure Almiron would not only be a missed opportunity but also a blow to their aspirations for the season. With the team already facing challenges on the field and criticism from fans and pundits, the addition of a player of Almiron's caliber could have provided the much-needed boost and fresh perspective they desperately need.

In a world often filled with darkness and despair, Alex Yang's story is a beacon of light and a reminder that, in the end, the ties that bind us to our past and our future are stronger than any force that may seek to tear us apart. His is a story of hope, of resilience, and of the enduring power of the human spirit to rise above even the most daunting of challenges. And as he continues on his quest to find his family and reclaim his identity, Alex Yang serves as an inspiration to us all – a living testament to the power of love, perseverance, and the unbreakable bond that ties us to our roots.

In conclusion, the recent wave of Israeli airstrikes on Syria has heightened tensions in the region and raised concerns about the potential for wider conflict. It is imperative for all parties to prioritize dialogue and diplomacy to de-escalate the situation and prevent further violence. The international community must work together to address the root causes of the conflict and seek a peaceful resolution to the crisis in Syria.

 

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2025-01-13
Starmer says ‘bulging benefits bill’ is ‘blighting our society’7 fortune

DAYTONA BEACH, Fla. (AP) — Corey McKeithan's 27 points helped La Salle defeat Stetson 92-77 on Saturday. McKeithan also added five rebounds for the Explorers (5-2). Andres Marrero added 13 points while shooting 5 for 11, including 3 for 6 from beyond the arc while they also had six rebounds. Jahlil White had 13 points and shot 4 of 9 from the field and 5 of 8 from the free-throw line. Mehki finished with 20 points and seven rebounds for the Hatters (1-6). Abramo Canka added 14 points for Stetson. Jamie Phillips Jr. had 12 points and seven rebounds. The Hatters extended their losing streak to six in a row. La Salle went on an 18-3 run to make it 69-48 with 11:22 left in the half. White scored 10 second-half points. The Associated Press created this story using technology provided by Data Skrive and data from Sportradar .

HICKSVILLE, N.Y. , Dec. 13, 2024 /PRNewswire/ -- Flagstar Financial, Inc. (NYSE: FLG) (the "Company") today announced the appointment of Brian Callanan , Senior Managing Director and General Counsel at Liberty Strategic Capital ("Liberty"), to its Board of Directors, effective December 16, 2024 . Commenting on the appointment, Joseph M. Otting , Chairman, President, and CEO said, "I'm pleased to have Brian join our Board. His proven track record and expertise in financial services, along with his strategic insights will be instrumental as we continue to execute on our transformation and long-term vision. Brian's perspectives will provide valuable guidance, and his leadership will play a critical role in driving sustainable growth, ensuring we achieve long-term success and maximize the value we deliver to our shareholders, employees, and clients." Callanan is a distinguished lawyer with extensive experience in financial regulation, regulatory compliance, and financial technology. At Liberty, Callanan leads the firm's legal function, serves on its Investment Committee, and focuses on financial sector investments. Prior to joining Liberty, he served as General Counsel of the U.S. Department of the Treasury, overseeing 2,000 lawyers across the department. As Chief General Counsel, he played a key role in major initiatives such as economic rescue programs during COVID-19, the design of new economic sanctions, and the implementation of tax reform. While serving as Deputy General Counsel, Callanan managed major litigation and advised on regulatory reform efforts, among other responsibilities. For his service, he received the Alexander Hamilton Award, the department's highest honor. This appointment aligns with the $1.05 billion equity investment in March 2024 , which stipulated that two Board seats would be granted to lead investor Liberty Strategic Capital. With Callanan's addition, the Company's Board of Directors, which was reconstituted earlier in 2024, expands to nine members, including Chairman, President, and Chief Executive Officer, Joseph M. Otting , Milton Berlinski , Alessandro P. DiNello , Alan Frank , Marshall Lux , Lead Independent Director Secretary Steven T. Mnuchin , Allen Puwalski , and Jennifer Whip. About Flagstar Financial, Inc. Flagstar Financial, Inc. is the parent company of Flagstar Bank, N.A., one of the largest regional banks in the country. The Company is headquartered in Hicksville, New York . At September 30, 2024, the Company had $114.4 billion of assets, $73.0 billion of loans, deposits of $83 .0 billion, and total stockholders' equity of $8 .6 billion. Flagstar Bank, N.A. operates over 400 branches, including a significant presence in the Northeast and Midwest and locations in high growth markets in the Southeast and West Coast. In addition, the Bank has approximately 80 private banking teams located in over 10 cities in the metropolitan New York City region and on the West Coast, which serve the needs of high-net worth individuals and their businesses. Cautionary Statements Regarding Forward-Looking Statements This release may include forward‐looking statements by the Company and our authorized officers pertaining to such matters as our goals, beliefs, intentions, and expectations regarding (a) revenues, earnings, loan production, asset quality, liquidity position, capital levels, risk analysis, divestitures, acquisitions, and other material transactions, among other matters; (b) the future costs and benefits of the actions we may take; (c) our assessments of credit risk and probable losses on loans and associated allowances and reserves; (d) our assessments of interest rate and other market risks; (e) our ability to execute on our strategic plan, including the sufficiency of our internal resources, procedures and systems; (f) our ability to attract, incentivize, and retain key personnel and the roles of key personnel; (g) our ability to achieve our financial and other strategic goals, including those related to our merger with Flagstar Bancorp, Inc., which was completed on December 1, 2022, our acquisition of substantial portions of the former Signature Bank through an FDIC-assisted transaction, and our ability to fully and timely implement the risk management programs institutions greater than $100 billion in assets must maintain; (h) the effect on our capital ratios of the approval of certain proposals approved by our shareholders during our 2024 annual meeting of shareholders; (i) the conversion or exchange of shares of the Company's preferred stock; (j) the payment of dividends on shares of the Company's capital stock, including adjustments to the amount of dividends payable on shares of the Company's preferred stock; (k) the availability of equity and dilution of existing equity holders associated with amendments to the 2020 Omnibus Incentive Plan; (l) the effects of the reverse stock split; and (m) transactions relating to the sale of our mortgage business and mortgage warehouse business. Forward‐looking statements are typically identified by such words as "believe," "expect," "anticipate," "intend," "outlook," "estimate," "forecast," "project," "should," "confident," and other similar words and expressions, and are subject to numerous assumptions, risks, and uncertainties, which change over time. Additionally, forward‐looking statements speak only as of the date they are made; the Company does not assume any duty, and does not undertake, to update our forward‐looking statements. Furthermore, because forward‐looking statements are subject to assumptions and uncertainties, actual results or future events could differ, possibly materially, from those anticipated in our statements, and our future performance could differ materially from our historical results. Our forward‐looking statements are subject to, among others, the following principal risks and uncertainties: general economic conditions and trends, either nationally or locally; conditions in the securities, credit and financial markets; changes in interest rates; changes in deposit flows, and in the demand for deposit, loan, and investment products and other financial services; changes in real estate values; changes in the quality or composition of our loan or investment portfolios, including associated allowances and reserves; changes in future allowance for credit losses, including changes required under relevant accounting and regulatory requirements; the ability to pay future dividends; changes in our capital management and balance sheet strategies and our ability to successfully implement such strategies; recent turnover in our Board of Directors and our executive management team; changes in our strategic plan, including changes in our internal resources, procedures and systems, and our ability to successfully implement such plan; changes in competitive pressures among financial institutions or from non‐financial institutions; changes in legislation, regulations, and policies; the imposition of restrictions on our operations by bank regulators; the outcome of pending or threatened litigation, or of investigations or any other matters before regulatory agencies, whether currently existing or commencing in the future; the success of our blockchain and fintech activities, investments and strategic partnerships; the restructuring of our mortgage business; our ability to recognize anticipated expense reductions and enhanced efficiencies with respect to our recently announced strategic workforce reduction; the impact of failures or disruptions in or breaches of the Company's operational or security systems, data or infrastructure, or those of third parties, including as a result of cyberattacks or campaigns; the impact of natural disasters, extreme weather events, military conflict (including the Russia / Ukraine conflict, the conflict in Israel and surrounding areas, the possible expansion of such conflicts and potential geopolitical consequences), terrorism or other geopolitical events; and a variety of other matters which, by their nature, are subject to significant uncertainties and/or are beyond our control. Our forward-looking statements are also subject to the following principal risks and uncertainties with respect to our merger with Flagstar Bancorp, which was completed on December 1, 2022 , and our acquisition of substantial portions of the former Signature Bank through an FDIC-assisted transaction: the possibility that the anticipated benefits of the transactions will not be realized when expected or at all; the possibility of increased legal and compliance costs, including with respect to any litigation or regulatory actions related to the business practices of acquired companies or the combined business; diversion of management's attention from ongoing business operations and opportunities; the possibility that the Company may be unable to achieve expected synergies and operating efficiencies in or as a result of the transactions within the expected timeframes or at all; and revenues following the transactions may be lower than expected. Additionally, there can be no assurance that the Community Benefits Agreement entered into with NCRC, which was contingent upon the closing of the Company's merger with Flagstar Bancorp, Inc., will achieve the results or outcome originally expected or anticipated by us as a result of changes to our business strategy, performance of the U.S. economy, or changes to the laws and regulations affecting us, our customers, communities we serve, and the U.S. economy (including, but not limited to, tax laws and regulations). More information regarding some of these factors is provided in the Risk Factors section of our Annual Report on Form 10‐K/A for the year ended December 31, 2023, Quarterly Report on Forms 10-Q for the quarters ended March 31, 2024 , June 30, 2024 , and September 30, 2024 , and in other SEC reports we file. Our forward‐looking statements may also be subject to other risks and uncertainties, including those we may discuss in this news release, on our conference call, during investor presentations, or in our SEC filings, which are accessible on our website and at the SEC's website, www.sec.gov . Investor Contact: Salvatore J. DiMartino (516) 683-4286 Media Contact: Nicole Yelland (248) 219-9234 View original content to download multimedia: https://www.prnewswire.com/news-releases/flagstar-financial-inc-appoints-brian-callanan-to-board-of-directors-302331692.html SOURCE Flagstar Financial, Inc.

The City boss is enduring the worst run of his glittering managerial career after a six-game winless streak featuring five successive defeats and a calamitous 3-3 draw in a match his side had led 3-0. The 53-year-old, who has won 18 trophies since taking charge at the Etihad Stadium in 2016, signed a contract extension through to the summer of 2027 just over a week ago. Yet, despite his remarkable successes, he still considers himself vulnerable to the sack and has pleaded with the club to keep faith. “I don’t want to stay in the place if I feel like I’m a problem,” said the Spaniard, who watched in obvious frustration as City conceded three times in the last 15 minutes in a dramatic capitulation against Feyenoord in midweek. “I don’t want to stay here just because the contract is there. “My chairman knows it. I said to him, ‘Give me the chance to try come back’, and especially when everybody comes back (from injury) and see what happens. “After, if I’m not able to do it, we have to change because, of course, (the past) nine years are dead. “More than ever I ask to my hierarchy, give me the chance. “Will it be easy for me now? No. I have the feeling that still I have a job to do and I want to do it.” City have been hampered by a raft of injuries this term, most pertinently to midfield talisman and Ballon d’Or winner Rodri. The Euro 2024 winner is expected to miss the remainder of the season and his absence has been keenly felt over the past two months. Playmaker Kevin De Bruyne has also not started a match since September. The pressure continues to build with champions City facing a crucial trip to title rivals and Premier League leaders Liverpool on Sunday. Defeat would leave City trailing Arne Slot’s side by 11 points. “I don’t enjoy it at all, I don’t like it,” said Guardiola of his side’s current situation. “I sleep not as good as I slept when I won every game. “The sound, the smell, the perfume is not good enough right now. “But I’m the same person who won the four Premier Leagues in a row. I was happier because I ate better, lived better, but I was not thinking differently from who I am.” Guardiola is confident his side will not stop battling as they bid to get back on track. He said: “The people say, ‘Yeah, it’s the end of that’. Maybe, but we are in November. We will see what happens until the end. “What can you do? Cry for that? You don’t stay long – many, many years without fighting. That is what you try to look for, this is the best (way). “Why should we not believe? Why should it not happen with us?”

Presenters Amanda Holden and Alan Carr led the stars arriving at the 2024 Royal Variety Performance, hours after the Queen pulled out due to lingering symptoms from a chest infection. The King is scheduled to attend the show at London’s Royal Albert Hall on Friday which will see Sir Elton John and his husband David Furnish present a musical number from their new show The Devil Wears Prada – based on the 2006 Oscar-nominated film. Cast members Vanessa Williams, who plays Miranda Priestly, and Matt Henry, who stars as art director Nigel, were among those posing on the red carpet ahead of the performance which showcases an original score by Sir Elton. The variety show will also see debuts from British singer Sophie Ellis-Bextor with her hit track Murder On The Dancefloor while Eurovision winner Nemo is also featured on the bill. Also posing on the carpet were US magicians and comedy duo Penn and Teller, whose performance marks their 50th anniversary. Comedy will come from Ted Lasso star Ellie Taylor, writer and comic Scott Bennett, Scottish comedian Larry Dean and political comic Matt Forde – who posed on the red carpet with a crutch after undergoing surgery for cancer on his spine. Among the arrivals was TV presenter Lorraine Kelly, who will make an appearance in this year’s show with her Change And Check Choir led by Wet Wet Wet singer Marti Pellow. The choir, made up of women from across the UK who detected their breast cancer through Kelly’s campaign, will perform Love Is All Around, which is being re-released to raise awareness of breast cancer early detection. It comes hours after Camilla insisted the “show must go on” after pulling out of attending the performance on Friday evening as doctors advised that she should prioritise rest. A Buckingham Palace spokesperson said: “Following a recent chest infection, the Queen continues to experience some lingering post-viral symptoms, as a result of which doctors have advised that, after a busy week of engagements, Her Majesty should prioritise sufficient rest. “With great regret, she has therefore withdrawn from attendance at tonight’s Royal Variety Performance. His Majesty will attend as planned.” A royal source said the Queen was “naturally disappointed to miss the evening’s entertainments and sends her sincere apologies to all those involved, but is a great believer that ‘the show must go on'”. “She hopes to be back to full strength and regular public duties very soon,” the source added. The Royal Variety Performance will air on ITV1, ITVX, STV and STV Player in December. Money raised from the show will go to help people from the world of entertainment in need of care and assistance, with the Royal Variety Charity launching an initiative to help those with mental health issues this year.

Chinese leader Xi Jinping has been invited to attend President-elect Donald Trump's inauguration next month. Karoline Leavitt, the incoming White House press secretary, told Fox News on Thursday that the inaugural committee had extended an invite to Xi and other foreign leaders, but she did not offer details of who else was invited beyond the Chinese president. CBS News was the first to report on the invites. "This is an example of President Trump creating an open dialogue with leaders of countries that are not just allies but our adversaries and our competitors too," Leavitt said on Fox. She added that it's "to be determined" whether Xi accepts the invitation. Leavitt described inviting foreign dignitaries as "precedent." But an invitation to a leader like Xi is not the norm, according to Allan Lichtman, a professor of politics at American University. "It is precedent to invite some dignitaries like ambassadors, but not foreign heads of state, certainly not a head of state who is not an ally," Lichtman said in an email to NPR. Trump has taken a hard line against China. Though during his first term, he often touted a strong relationship with Xi, and has said they had "great chemistry." But the first Trump administration imposed tariffs on some products from China, and Trump has recently threatened further tariffs in his second term. In a post last month on his social media platform Truth Social, Trump threatened a 10% tariff on goods coming into the U.S. from China because of the amount of fentanyl and other drugs entering the U.S. from there. It's not yet clear if the tariff will be actualized. Copyright 2024 NPRBEIJING , Nov. 23, 2024 /PRNewswire/ -- A news report from chinadaily.com.cn : Representatives discuss hot topics faced by countries in digitalization China's forward-looking vision on the future development of the internet offers a glimpse into how cooperation can narrow the digital divide across the world, at a time when an economic slowdown and impeded globalization have stunted growth worldwide, said government officials and industry experts on Friday. They made the remarks at the 2024 World Internet Conference Wuzhen Summit that ended in Wuzhen, Zhejiang province on Friday. They also sought more global cooperation to advance the development of the internet in less-developed economies and enhance digital competence for all. Ren Xianliang, secretary-general of the WIC, said at a news conference, "More efforts should be made to help make the internet a new frontier for all parties to cooperate and continue to create more convergence of interests, growth points of cooperation and new highlights of win-win scenarios in cyberspace." "All parties around the world are expected to join hands to build a cyber world where human beings coexist, jointly create a digital future of win-win cooperation and make cyberspace better for all peoples of the world," he said. More than 1,800 representatives from governments, international organizations, industry associations, internet enterprises, universities and think tanks from over 130 countries and regions attended this year's summit, addressing some of the hottest topics faced by countries in digitalization. Teo Nie Ching , deputy minister of communications of Malaysia , said at the conference that digital transformation is not solely about technological advancement, but also a reflection of human values and actions. "As technology progresses, we must uphold a core principle of people-centered and holistic development to ensure that technological applications truly serve the common good and promote share to the progress," Teo said. A United Nations report found that 2.6 billion individuals globally still lack internet access and a sharp digital divide can also be observed among economies, among industries and between urban and rural areas. Although many less technologically advanced regions, such as Africa , possess a strong willingness to build an inclusive and equitable digital world, the rapid advancement of technologies often poses a huge challenge to developing countries — how to actively participate and keep pace with this growth, said Nii Narku Quaynor , chairman of Ghana Dot Com. Against this backdrop, reinforcing open access to internet channels, digital content and technologies can greatly benefit emerging economies in the digital world, he said. Eyeing a higher-level of inclusiveness, connectivity and cooperation in the internet sector, a statement on global digital cooperation was released by a sub-forum of the WIC. The statement highlighted the importance of advancing international cooperation on data exchange, enhancing cross-border data connectivity, and narrowing gaps in data circulation, as well as more initiatives to build an open and mutually beneficial international framework for data collaboration. Intensified efforts should also be made to deepen international exchanges on technology standards, ethical guidelines and legal frameworks, advancing a widely accepted global AI governance system, said the statement. It also called for human-centered and ethically sound approaches to cutting-edge technologies such as AI, encouraging safe, reliable, fair and transparent research and development as well as applications of AI. At the opening ceremony of WIC, Chinese Vice-Premier Ding Xuexiang also stressed the need for the international community to jointly deal with problems such as the digital divide and a grave cybersecurity situation to build a better digital future. The digital divide continues to widen, and the situation of cybersecurity has become more severe, Ding said, adding that the international community is in greater need than ever of jointly advancing a community with a shared future in cyberspace. China has been sharing the opportunities of modernization with countries around the world and injecting strong impetus into global modernization, Ding said. View original content to download multimedia: https://www.prnewswire.com/news-releases/china-set-to-narrow-digital-divide-302314740.html SOURCE chinadaily.com.cnPresident of Indonesia welcomed with official reception ceremony