Iowa quarterback Cade McNamara said he didn't travel to Saturday's game at Maryland after not being fully cleared from a concussion sustained last month. McNamara on Friday went to X to respond to what he called "ridiculous accusations" about his status with the team. The senior said he remains "a proud member of this football team." McNamara last played Oct. 26 against Northwestern , when he sustained the concussion. Brendan Sullivan stepped in and started Iowa's next few games, but an ankle injury has sidelined him for the Maryland game. Sources told ESPN that Sullivan likely will not return until Iowa's bowl game. Jackson Stratton , a walk-on who transferred to Iowa from Colorado State , will start against Maryland. Editor's Picks Connelly on Week 13: Can Indiana, Army handle unexpected spotlight? 3h Bill Connelly Iowa QB Cade McNamara sidelined with concussion 24d Adam Rittenberg Iowa listed McNamara as the starter on its Monday depth chart, and McNamara said he had been cleared to practice Sunday but "had an adverse reaction, which is common for someone coming out of [concussion] protocol." He said he did not participate in practice Monday and for the rest of the week, and continues to work with team doctors and a concussion specialist. Hawkeyes coach Kirk Ferentz said Tuesday that McNamara's status is "cloudy," but that the quarterback had been cleared to play. "Whether or not he can play effectively or not, we'll see," Ferentz said. Ferentz said on his radio show Wednesday that Stratton was in line to make his first start. "He'll get the start," Ferentz said. "Confident that he'll do a great job. He stepped in, did a really nice job in our last ball game, and he's got a good ability to throw the football, and he's learning every day." Stratton completed 3 of 6 pass attempts for 28 yards against UCLA in Iowa's loss on Nov. 8. He appeared in four games for Colorado State in 2022 and none last season. McNamara, a transfer from Michigan who helped the Wolverines to the 2021 Big Ten title, has opened the last two seasons as Iowa's starter. He sustained an ACL tear in September 2023 that cost him the rest of the season. McNamara has 1,022 passing yards with 10 touchdowns and eight interceptions at Iowa. He wrote on X that he intends to play in Iowa's regular-season finale Nov. 29 at home against Nebraska .
GREEN BAY, Wis. (AP) — Defending the run has been one of the Green Bay Packers’ weaknesses over the last several years. Not so much lately, though. Green Bay limited San Francisco to 16 carries for 44 yards in a 38-10 rout of the 49ers on Nov. 24, with two-time All-Pro Christian McCaffrey gaining 31 yards on 11 attempts. Four nights later, the Packers beat Miami 30-17 by holding the Dolphins to 39 yards on 14 carries. It was the first time since 1995 — and only the second time since 1950 — that the Packers had allowed fewer than 45 yards rushing in back-to-back games within the same season. “I think we’re playing harder and harder each week,” first-year defensive coordinator Jeff Hafley said. “And that’s how you play good defense.” That defense needs to be at its best Thursday as the Packers (9-3) close a stretch of three games in 12 days by visiting the NFC North-leading Detroit Lions (12-1), who have the NFL’s highest-scoring offense thanks in part to a rushing attack featuring the speedy Jahmyr Gibbs and the physical David Montgomery. “Gibbs is a great running back,” defensive lineman Kenny Clark said. “I really think the offense really starts with him, honestly. He can do everything — receive, in-and-out runner, can do stretch, duo plays. We’ve got to have all hands on deck with Gibbs. And then Montgomery, he’s a great complement to him. He can do everything, also.” The Lions were the first team since the 1975 Miami Dolphins to rush for at least 100 yards and a touchdown in each of their first 11 games. The streak ended on Thanksgiving when the Lions rushed for 194 yards but didn’t have a touchdown on the ground in a 23-20 victory over the Chicago Bears. Green Bay outrushed Detroit 138-124 in the Packers’ 24-14 loss to the Lions on Nov. 3 at Lambeau Field. Montgomery rushed for 73 yards while Gibbs ran for 65 yards and a touchdown. Gibbs has 973 yards this season, which ranks fourth in the NFL. Montgomery ran for a combined 192 yards and four touchdowns in the Lions’ two games against the Packers last season. Green Bay’s run defense has come a long way since. The Packers have allowed 106.6 yards rushing per game this season, which ranks eighth in the league. The Packers haven’t closed a season in the top 10 in run defense since 2016 and have finished outside the top 20 in four of the last six years, including 26th in 2022 and 28th in 2023. “I think Haf’s doing a good job of mixing up the fronts and some of the coverages, but really it’s ultimately about tackling, swarming, getting many hats to the football,” Packers coach Matt LaFleur said. “And our guys have really embraced that style of play.” The Packers are yielding 4.2 yards per carry to rank seventh in the league after finishing 22nd or worst in that category each of the last three seasons. They haven’t closed a season ranked in the top 10 in yards allowed per carry since 2017. Hafley says the improvement starts up front. “The interior part of our D-line has done such a good job these last few games,” Hafley said. “They really have. They’re hard to block. They’re staying in their gaps. They’re tearing off of blocks, and it’s the same thing with those defensive ends. They’re setting edges, they’re forcing the ball back inside, they’re getting off blocks and then we’re tackling and we’re running to the ball and there’s multiple people to the ball. “And when you turn on our tape right now and when you freeze it, you see that. You see a lot of guys around the football. And then you’re not afraid, right? Like if I have an open-field tackle and I know eight other guys are coming, I’m going to take my shot because I know if I miss, it’s going to be, ‘Bang, bang, bang,’ we’ve got three or four other guys there, and we’re starting to play faster.” Green Bay's defense has the Lions’ attention. “They’ve been playing well,” Detroit coach Dan Campbell said. “I mean, they have, really, all season, and nothing has changed.” AP Sports Writer Larry Lage contributed to this report. AP NFL: https://apnews.com/hub/NFLArt Of Living Foundation and Amber Group provide US$5m in humanitarian aid to Jamaica
Alisson Becker has opened up on his recent injury nightmare after making an impressive return to action in Liverpool ’s 1-0 win over Girona . The 32-year-old started in Spain as the Reds maintained their perfect record in this season’s Champions League league phase , thus marking his first appearance since limping off with a muscle injury against Crystal Palace at the beginning of October. Showing no signs of rust, Alisson produced a number of crucial saves during the first half to keep the La Liga outfit at bay and ensure the game was goalless at half-time . He then made an impressive stop right at the start of the second half to deny Arnaut Danjuma. Those saves in addition to commanding his box at set-pieces created a platform for Liverpool secure the victory which was given to them from the penalty spot as Mohamed Salah made no mistake from 12 yards. Whilst Reds head coach Arne Slot wasn’t best pleased with the overall performance from his side, he reserved special praise for his goalkeeper who has revealed what he went through to return to fitness. "It's great to be back, amazing feeling. It was a long wait for me this time," he told TNT Sport. "It was an injury after a small injury and then a big one. "Nine weeks I think I was away, but working really hard everyday in the gym. When you are injured you work even more than when you are fit and playing and try to recover as much as you can. "But when you are injured you have no excuse, you have to prepare, you have to stop for a while, then prepare, work hard. It's like doing a pre-season again in the middle of the season. "I'm so glad to be back, I'm really thankful for the physios, the doctors, my personal pyshio and my personal fitness coach. All those guys who worked together with me this time." Alisson more than played his part to leave Liverpool on the brink of officially qualifying for the last 16 stage with two games to spare - against Lille and PSV Eindhoven in the new year. With Atalanta losing at home to Real Madrid coupled with Bayer Leverkusen beating Inter Milan, a couple of results on Tuesday have gone in the Reds’ favour and it remains to be seen if they have cause for further celebration following Wednesday night’s fixtures.Cambodia’s economy grew 5.6 per cent in 2023 and is projected to rise to 5.8 per cent in 2024, driven by garment, footwear, and tourism exports. In June, the World Bank admired Cambodia’s economic activity, which peaked in the first quarter of 2024, driven by a revival of services and goods exports despite subdued domestic demand. The country’s economic growth has been 5.6 per cent in 2023, which is expected to improve marginally to 5.8 per cent in 2024, strengthen to 6.1 per cent in 2025 and reach 6.4 per cent in 2026. The projections are based on a revival in garment, travel goods, footwear exports, and tourism expected to propel the ongoing recovery. While the international tourist arrivals improved in the first quarter to 84 per cent of pre-pandemic levels, the exports of garments, travel goods, and footwear rebounded with ASEAN (Association of Southeast Asian Nations) region emerging as Cambodia’s second largest export market after the US. Rising foreign investment in manufacturing and agriculture also contributed to the recovery. Inflation also declined to zero in March with deceleration in food prices. Later in October, IMF (International Monetary Fund) projected economic growth in 2024 at 5.5 per cent. However, the growth drivers – strong rebound in garment and tourism as also observed by the World Bank, remained common in both projections. The inflation projection is around 1.5 per cent prior to an expected convergence to the long-term trend of 3 per cent. In the first half, the inflation moderated to an average of 1.6 per cent, y-o-y. IMF recommended structural reforms to diversify growth drivers and improve productivity. January-September trade The international sales (exports) of various articles of apparel and clothing accessories – both knitted and non-knitted, footwear gaiters, leather and fur goods, as well as some processed textiles, reached $966.98 million in the month of January, accounting for 49.16 per cent of Cambodia’s total export value of $1,967 million. This was 21.64 per cent up from January 2023 and attributed to the global recovery towards the end of 2023, a decrease in the stock levels of textile products at overseas companies, and revitalisation of global tourism, which boosted the demand for GFT products in key markets of the US, EU, Japan, Canada and the UK. By February end, Cambodia cumulatively exported more than $1.6 billion worth of textile products to international markets, surging by nearly a quarter compared to the same period in 2023. The increase in exports was also due to an increase in shipments to member countries of the Regional Comprehensive Economic Partnership (RCEP). Between January and May 2024, Cambodia exported $4.969 billion worth of garments, footwear and travel goods (GFT), growing by 20% y-o-y. In this, combined exports of apparel and textiles accounted for $3.628 billion, rising 22 per cent y-o-y. The positive trend marked a turnaround after 18 months of continuous decline. The GFT sector comprises around 1,680 factories and branches, employing nearly 918,000 workers, mostly female. Export of footwear was worth $615 million—up by 10 per cent YoY, while the figure for travel goods was $726 million—up by 18.8 per cent y-o-y. During the five-month period, the country’s total trade volume increased 12.5 per cent over $19.2 billion during the same period last year. Combining all three quarters from January to September, Cambodia exported textile products, encompassing knitted articles of apparel and clothing accessories (HS Code 61), non-knitted articles (Code 62), other textiles (Code 63), and footwear and gaiters (Code 64), worth $8.758 billion which reflected a 24.51 per cent increase over $7.034 billion (2023). This represented 44.16 per cent of the country’s total export revenue of $19.833 billion. Code 61 products generated revenue of $5.034 billion (up 21.5 per cent), Code 62 amounted to $2.353 billion (up 31.9 per cent), Code 63 accounted for $155.69 million (up 37.7 per cent), and Code 64 brought in $1.214 billion (up 22.4 per cent). The growth in exports over 2023 was largely attributed to Cambodia’s political stability within ASEAN, especially in comparison to Bangladesh and Myanmar. The country’s favourable investment laws, the efficiency of its workers and the availability of skilled labour, the quality and quantity of production, improved transportation infrastructure, and a growing number of international buyers were other major growth drivers. The country also attracted many foreign financiers who are currently investing in textile manufacturing. In terms of country (not region), Canada remained the fourth largest market, after the top three of the US, Japan and Spain, for Cambodian apparel exports during the first six months of 2024. Cambodia’s total apparel exports totalled $5.548 billion, and Canada accounted for 8.29 per cent of the total. During the period, Canada was supplied with apparel worth $452.916 million, with trousers and shorts having the largest share of 36.06 per cent and valued at $163.392 million. Among other apparel categories, jerseys, valued at $74.217 million, had a 16.39 per cent share in total apparel exports; T-shirts amounted to $38.560 million, contributing 8.51 per cent; shirts were worth $31.012 million, had a 6.85 per cent share; and coats, valued at $20.969 million, contributed 4.63 per cent share. EU-switch garment project The four-year tenure of the EU-Switch Garment Project, which promoted sustainable energy practices in the Cambodian garment sector, ended in May. The European Union SWITCH-Asia Grants Programme funded the project. It jointly implemented by the Global Green Growth Institute (GGGI), TAFTAC (Textile, Apparel, Footwear & Travel Goods Association), and Geres in partnership with the MoE (Ministry of Environment) and MISTI (Ministry of Industry, Science, Technology & Innovation). The event was attended by over 100 participants and featured the project’s detailed achievements, and networking opportunities to discuss the future of sustainable garment production in Cambodia. The EU-Switch Garment project aimed to improve the environmental sustainability of the country’s garment industries by offering technical assistance in the form of energy audits, capacity building, technical guidelines, and improved financing access. During the tenure, the Model Green Factory Program—a voluntary tool to become a greener factory—was developed, acknowledged by MoE and MISTI, and adopted by TAFTAC for implementation. The project also contributed to bringing sector stakeholders together to enhance better access to finance. The National Steering Committee held its first meeting on June 20, 2024 in Phnom Penh, chaired by the Permanent Secretary of State, MoE. At the meeting, the Committee members listed work streams for 2024-2025 and decided to focus on two priority work streams that are expected to have a significant impact on Cambodia’s green economic transaction efforts: Enhancing the Government’s technical capacity in economic foresight and fiscal policy: This work stream would support policymakers in using data to make informed decisions and in systematically assessing the economic, social, and environmental impacts of fiscal and economic decisions. Additionally, integrated planning, modelling, and sustainable budgeting would help the Cambodian Government optimise resources, attract new financing, and align with development priorities. Promoting a circular economy with a focus on reducing single-use plastics and implementing the 4R principles within the garment industry: This work stream would aim to decarbonise the garment sector by reducing carbon emissions through technological innovation, aligning with the UNFCCC Fashion Charter principles. It focuses on reducing fabric waste, promoting circular fashion, and supporting the government’s target to reduce plastic use and promote the 4R principles as part of the Circular Strategy on Environment 2023-2028. On the occasion, PAGE (Partnership for Action on Green Economy) also presented a summary brief, developed based on the last year’s policy scoping study conducted in collaboration with the Cambodian Development Resource Institute, outlining five priorities that serve as a roadmap for policymakers and stakeholders to identify the obstacles and opportunities for fostering a green economic transition in Cambodia. Workshop on green initiatives A workshop ‘Reporting on Human Rights Due Diligence (HREDD) and Sustainability Requirements for International Buyers’ was organised on September 19, 2024, by GOPA Consulting Group’s team leading the GIZ-funded project “Services to strengthen capacities for sustainable management in the textile sector” in association with TAFTAC. The workshop marked the end of the project. Held in the headquarters of TAFTAC, the workshop lauded the efforts of 45 TAFTAC member factories for the successful completion of the Model Green Factory Program. The training at the workshop had three main objectives – environmental data management, energy efficiency, and job and data management, which are integral to international sustainability standards. Minimum wages revised The National Council on Minimum Wage (NCMW) – a tripartite body comprising equal representation of labour unions, employer’s associations, and the government, increased the minimum wage for the textile, garment, footwear and travel product industries for 2025, through Prakas 211 which will come into force with effect from January 1, 2025. The new minimum wages will be $208 pm (per month) and $206 pm for regular and probationary workers, respectively. Earlier wages were $204 pm and $202 pm. Prakas 211 also outlined the minimum wage provisions for piece rate workers, who are compensated based on their level of output. These workers have the potential to earn more than the minimum wage if their production yields a higher pay rate. However, if their production results in earnings lower than the minimum wage, their pay is adjusted to meet the minimum wage threshold of $208 pm for regular workers or $206 pm for probationary workers. In addition to the minimum wage, workers will also receive the attendance bonus of $10 pm; travel and accommodation expenses of $7 pm; meal allowances of $0.50 per day; and overtime and seniority bonus of $2 to $11 pm for those between their second to the eleventh year of work. Fibre2Fashion News Desk (SB – WE)
ST. JOHN'S, N.L. — The chief executive of the North West Co. Inc. is rejecting accusations that its stores in remote Indigenous communities hiked food prices as funding flowed in this year from federal programs aimed at making necessities more affordable. Dan McConnell made the comments Tuesday during a call for shareholders discussing the company's third-quarter financial results, in which it reported consolidated sales of $637.5 million. “Absolutely not,” he said when asked if the company's stores in Northern Canada were raising prices when federal funding arrived in the region. “We're actually looking at lowering prices by bringing in other options and lower cost items under a private label program.” The North West Co. operates 118 Northern grocery stores in remote communities across Northern Canada, as well as a host of other businesses, including Quickstop convenience stores in Northern Canada and Alaska and a dozen Cost-U-Less stores in regions including St. Maarten, the Hawaiian Islands and the Caribbean. In some northern Labrador and Nunavut communities, the Northern store is the only place to buy groceries Last month, Nunavut Tunngavik Inc., the land-claims body representing Nunavut Inuit, said it is planning to investigate whether retailers, including Northern stores, hiked food prices after communities began receiving money this year under the federal Jordan’s Principle and Inuit Child First Initiative programs. The programs provide funding to ensure children get adequate food and education. The consolidated sales figure reported for North West Co.’s third quarter, which ended Oct. 31, marks a 3.3-per cent increase over the same quarter last year, but McConnell said that didn't translate to the bottom line, as the company's net earnings were $36.4 million, down from $38 million in the third quarter of 2023. The company also faced a seven per cent increase in selling, operating and administrative costs compared with the same quarter last year, partly driven by higher minimum wages and new hiring, McConnell said. Sales in the company's Canadian operations were up by four per cent, thanks in part to increased demand in communities where people qualified for government funding and payouts from a 2021 settlement between Canada and certain First Nations over drinking water. "In Canada, we expect consumer demand in the fourth quarter and into 2025 to continue to be positively impacted by the distribution of First Nations drinking water settlement payments and government spending on First Nations Child and Family Service programs, including Jordan's Principle and the Inuit Child First programs," McConnell told shareholders during the call. Nicholas Li, an economics professor at Toronto Metropolitan University who studies food security in Northern Canada, said there is some evidence that retail food prices go up when government funding is around. But it can be hard to know why this happens. Li was part of a team that published a report last year about the Nutrition North Canada program, which offers federal subsidies aimed at lowering and levelling food prices across remote Indigenous communities. The study found retailers passed on to customers just 67 cents of every subsidy dollar they received. McConnell said Tuesday that qualifying North West Co. stores pass on 100 per cent of the subsidies they received, noting that its use of the program has passed several federal audits. But Li said the federal government runs the Nutrition North audits like a "black box," refusing to release any information on how the companies are scrutinized. He said the North West Co. has tended to be more profitable than other Canadian grocery giants such as Loblaws, Metro and Empire, which owns Sobeys. The company’s stock also soared to historic heights this year, hitting nearly $56 last month. "I think it's easy to voice frustrations with the North West Company," Li said. There are likely many things happening to increase prices that retailers shouldn't be blamed for, he said. "But at the same time, based on my research, there's also truth to these views that retailers do take advantage of some of these programs to profit," he said. "Both things can be true." "It can also be true that the current retail setup (in the North), while maybe not ideal, is the best thing that's possible under the current circumstances," he added. This report by The Canadian Press was first published Dec. 10, 2024. Companies in this story: (TSX: NWC) Sarah Smellie, The Canadian PressChris Murphy Warns Pam Bondi Would Turn DOJ Into a Political Arm of the WH (Who Wants to Tell Him?)On a rainy afternoon during a typically busy time of day, the U.S. Bank on Carmel Rancho Lane in Carmel was robbed. It was approximately 3:35pm on Monday, Dec. 16 when Monterey County Sheriff’s deputies responded to a report that three suspects, all believed to be males, had just robbed the bank, according to the Monterey County Sheriff's Office. One of the suspects was reported to be armed with a handgun, and the suspects were seen fleeing in a gray-colored Honda Civic, or similar type vehicle, with an undisclosed amount of money. No one was hurt during the robbery, according to the Sheriff’s Office. “At this point, we have not received any further information that clarifies direction of travel or a license plate,” says Commander Andy Rosas. He adds that because the incident occurred during a busy time at the shopping center, he hopes it will lead to more information about the suspects as their investigation continues. “There's a lot of cars out there that have in-car cameras. What we're hoping is that anybody that was in that area, go back and check your cameras and see if you've got anything that shows a vehicle, maybe other people that were involved, the license plate,” says Rosas. “With the advancements in technology, we know there's cameras out there. Somebody had to capture something.” The U.S. Bank branch is situated in a heavily trafficked area between two other banks—Chase Bank and Fremont Bank—as well as next to a couple of thrift stores, and adjacent to a store called Carmel Stone Imports. A sign on the front of the door reads "This U.S. Bank is temporarily closed and will reopen soon." The nearest U.S. Bank is located at 1400 Munras Ave. in Monterey. In October 2021, there was another bank robbery at the Chase Bank next door, according to multiple news sources at the time and local workers in neighboring shops. “When I went outside I just remember seeing the FBI and Sheriff’s officers everywhere; it was like something out of a movie,” says Pamela, who works at Carmel Stone and would speak only using her first name. “This stuff never happens here.” Anyone with information about the robbery can reach out anonymously. The Monterey County Sheriff’s Office is asking anyone who was in the area at the time of the incident and may have seen something to call Detective Rodrigo Lopez at 831-253-6050 or Detective Sergeant Nicholas Kennedy at 831-597-1228.Packers' improving run defense ready for challenge against NFC North-leading Lions
RICHMOND, British Columbia, Nov. 22, 2024 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) -- General Fusion has published peer-reviewed scientific results confirming world-first achievements in plasma compression using its uniquely practical Magnetized Target Fusion (MTF) technology. The results, published in Nuclear Fusion , verify that during the company's Plasma Compression Science (PCS) experiment series, it successfully produced significant fusion neutron yield by compressing plasmas in the spherical tokamak configuration required for its MTF approach. The results demonstrated a method that ensures plasma stability and symmetry during compression and verified the company's predictions for the rate of plasma heating and increased neutron yield. The tests proved the effectiveness of the company's technology for plasma formation and compression using a metal liner, providing the foundation for its Lawson Machine 26 (LM26) - the company's large-scale fusion demonstration. LM26 will begin integrated operations in early 2025 and is on target to achieve key milestones of 1 keV, then 10 keV (fusion conditions of over 100 million degrees Celsius), and, ultimately, scientific breakeven equivalent (100 per cent Lawson criterion) in the next two years. In the PCS experiment, General Fusion's high-performing plasmas remained stable and maintained magnetic flux while the fusion neutron yield increased significantly. The experiment results demonstrated that significant volumetric compression of a spherical tokamak plasma is practical, de-risking the company's LM26, which will compress plasmas at large scale to reach higher fusion yields. Key Experiment Results: Neutron yield increased significantly, exceeding 600 million neutrons per second in one compression shot. During compression, the plasma became approximately 190 times denser than it started, consistent with plasma particle confinement time being significantly longer than the compression time. The magnetic field that provides robust confinement for the hot plasma became over 13 times higher than it started due to the action of compression. Measurements of plasma heating agreed well with the rate expected for the scale of the experiment, with a modest rise in ion temperature to approximately 0.63 keV during the compression. "During our PCS series, General Fusion was the first in the world to compress a spherical tokamak plasma with a collapsing metal liner, and we are thrilled to now share in a peer-reviewed publication the results we achieved in demonstrating fusion from MTF through this experimental campaign," said Dr. Michel Laberge, Founder and Chief Science Officer, General Fusion. "This research is another example of our trailblazing work over the past two decades. Now, we're approaching breakthrough milestones with LM26. Our practical approach translates to an economical power plant, putting us on the path to electricity on the grid by the early to mid-2030s." General Fusion is a world leader in plasma research. Twenty-four prototypes and over 200,000 plasma shots have helped the company build the world's largest and most powerful operational fusion plasma injector for LM26. The company's multi-year PCS series, conducted from 2013 to 2019, was the first of its kind to study the behavior of a magnetized plasma during rapid compression. Custom experimental systems and testbeds were built in-house to reliably compress a high-performance compact spherical tokamak plasma within an imploding metal wall. A robust suite of diagnostics provided data for each compression test. The peer-reviewed results from the experiment closely align with the company's advanced predictive simulation and modelling, providing confidence that LM26 will achieve its targets of 1 keV, 10 keV, and scientific breakeven equivalent (100 per cent Lawson criterion). "We've demonstrated the viability of a stable fusion process using our MTF approach, laying the foundation for our groundbreaking LM26," said Mike Donaldson, Senior Vice President, Technology Development, General Fusion. "These achievements in plasma compression are a testament to our team's deep expertise and capabilities, accumulated over two decades of fusion technology development. Through our PCS series, we also made major advances in plasma systems, materials, coatings, and diagnostics. Now we're ready for the next step – demonstrating fusion and significant heating at large scale with LM26! Our incredibly talented team has made it all possible, building a practical, clean energy technology with world-changing potential from the ground up." Quick Facts The open-access paper published in Nuclear Fusion provides a comprehensive analysis of the engineering and plasma physics involved in achieving this new foothold in MTF research. In General Fusion's MTF approach , the proprietary liquid metal liner in the fusion vessel is mechanically compressed by high-powered pistons. This allows General Fusion to create fusion conditions in short pulses, rather than creating a sustained reaction, while protecting the machine's vessel, extracting heat, and re-breeding fuel. The technology is designed to scale for cost-efficient power plants. It does not require large superconducting magnets or an expensive array of lasers. Today, General Fusion is accelerating its progress by building LM26. The fusion demonstration machine is on track to achieve transformative technical milestones in the next 24 months—1 keV in the first half of 2025, then 10 keV, and ultimately scientific breakeven equivalent (100 per cent Lawson criterion) by 2026. Its results will significantly de-risk the company's commercial-scale machine, fast-tracking its path to provide commercial fusion energy to the grid by the early to mid-2030s. About General Fusion General Fusion is pursuing a fast and practical approach to commercial fusion energy and is headquartered in Richmond, B.C., Canada. The company was established in 2002 and is funded by a global syndicate of leading energy venture capital firms, industry leaders, and technology pioneers. Learn more at www.generalfusion.com . General Fusion Media Relations media@generalfusion.com +1-866-904-0995 Follow General Fusion twitter.com/generalfusion instagram.com/generalfusion linkedin.com/company/general-fusion facebook.com/generalfusion © 2024 Benzinga.com. Benzinga does not provide investment advice. All rights reserved.Dive Brief: Dive Insight: Today, Tractor Supply uses a mix of less-than-truckload and parcel carriers like FedEx and UPS, as well as same-day delivery providers Roadie and DoorDash, to meet its final-mile needs, per an investor presentation . But Tractor Supply has had trouble finding carriers that can meet all of its shipping needs, Yankee said. The company is often delivering bulky products like fence panels and riding lawnmowers to remote locations. Tractor Supply's average delivery weight is 48 pounds, according to the presentation. "The deliveries we're doing aren't just dropping a box on somebody's doorstep," he said. Tractor Supply has also seen promising signs for customer experience when it comes to making deliveries in-house. In those cases, the company sees a product returns rate 10 times lower than when it uses outside carriers and a 13% higher customer satisfaction score, Yankee said. In 2025, Tractor Supply's delivery goals include establishing its final-mile team, selecting routing and scheduling technology for its drivers and expanding delivery coverage out of test markets. The following two years, Tractor Supply aims to scale its coverage area and complement services provided by third-party partners. In 2028 and 2029, it plans to drive more volume to its in-house delivery operations, roll out premium service offerings and increase route density to reduce costs. "By the end of the decade, we plan to take the 15% order volume coverage we have for big and bulky items today and have the ability to cover 90 to 95% of those large item orders," Yankee said.
MADRID (AP) — Getafe scored twice in three minutes midway through the second half to beat struggling Valladolid 2-0 and record only its second win in La Liga on Friday. The victory ended Getafe’s five-game winless run and lifted it into 15th place in the 20-team standings. Valladolid remained second to last. In the buildup to the match, Getafe sporting director Rubén Reyes described the game as a final but his team was lucky not to go behind as Valladolid created more of the early chances. However, the home side took control in the 69th minute when substitute Álvaro Rodríguez got the opener. Three minutes later, man of the match Allan Nyom made it 2-0. “There’s been a lot of games where we’ve run and fought but lost or drawn,” Nyom, the veteran Cameroon full back, said. “A game that reflects the effort we’ve put in in training is very welcome.” Adding to Valladolid’s woes, coach Paulo Pezzolano was sent off before halftime. The Uruguayan has the league’s worst disciplinary record, with seven yellow cards before Friday’s red. ___ AP soccer:
Survivors of Pfizer vaccination tragedy decry injustice 28 years after
Former MP Collins Owusu Amankwaa Urges Ghanaians to Protect Free SHS Ahead of ElectionsBorder plan promises round-the-clock aerial surveillance, drug detection supportImagine interacting with a product that doesn’t require instructions or guesswork, a tool that feels so intuitive it seems to speak your language. This is the promise of the BEHAVIORAL (instincts) series, a collection of four small appliances designed to bridge instinct and usability. By merging familiar behaviors with innovative design, these products create experiences that are not only functional but also memorable. Designer: and The form of the speaker takes inspiration from the humble doorknob, an object universally associated with control and access. Just as turning a doorknob opens a door, rotating REVOLVE adjusts the sound. This tactile design not only feels natural but also invites a sense of exploration. Equipped with silicone pressure pads, the speaker can attach to walls, creating a unique echo chamber effect. REVOLVE isn’t just a tool for listening, it’s an invitation to shape how sound interacts with your environment, turning a simple speaker into a doorway to new auditory experiences. Spin is a supplementary battery that reimagines the charging experience with a nod to the nostalgic charm of cassette tapes. The battery device features a rotating disk that moves as electricity flows, visually representing the direction of the charge. This dynamic motion is both functional and engaging, transforming a mundane activity into a sensory experience. By merging analog familiarity with modern technology, SPIN bridges the gap between past and present, creating a product that doesn’t just charge your devices but also sparks a moment of joy in the process. Inspired by the mechanics of a tape measure, this torch light allows users to adjust brightness intuitively. Stretching the cable feels as natural as measuring a length of fabric or wood, with the brightness increasing as the wire extends. This clever design not only simplifies light control but also makes it engaging and satisfying. Whether you need a subtle ambiance or a bright workspace, EXTEND lets you tailor your lighting with the ease of a familiar motion, turning illumination into an interactive and creative act. ROTATE reinvents the conventional extension cord by borrowing from the design of a gas valve. Instead of a standard switch, the valve rotates to open or close the circuit, visually communicating the flow of electricity. This intuitive design makes managing power both simple and tactile. By integrating a motion many users already understand, ROTATE transforms a routine task into a moment of control and mastery, reminding us that even the most utilitarian tools can offer a sense of satisfaction. The BEHAVIORAL (instincts) series exemplifies how thoughtful design can enhance the user experience, creating products that go beyond functionality to leave lasting impressions. Each product taps into familiar behaviors and sensory engagement, making interactions intuitive and enjoyable. By prioritizing the intersection of instinct and learning, these tools demonstrate that great design doesn’t just solve problems, it enriches daily life.( MENAFN - GlobeNewsWire - Nasdaq) New York, NY, Dec. 27, 2024 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) -- In an era where digital finance is rapidly transforming global markets, GoldMarketer.com has emerged as a leading platform, setting a new standard for how traditional and digital financial products are integrated and traded online. Specializing in digital gold, the platform has grown into a comprehensive Internet finance hub offering a wide range of products, including foreign exchange (forex), cryptocurrencies, stocks, exchange-traded funds (ETFs), and various financial derivatives. Building on a Legacy of Innovation Founded years ago, initially focused on providing investors with access to digital gold-a product that blends the timeless value of gold with the convenience of digital transactions. Over time, the platform expanded to offer a variety of other financial instruments, broadening its appeal to a diverse global audience. This evolution has allowed to cater to both conservative investors and more speculative traders, positioning itself as a one-stop-shop for those seeking to navigate the complexities of modern financial markets. The platform's commitment to innovation, security, and user experience has helped it become a trusted name in the fast-growing world of online finance. Digital Gold at the Core This offering has become particularly popular among investors seeking a hedge against inflation, economic instability, and currency devaluation. With digital gold, users can gain exposure to gold's long-established store of value in a form that is both accessible and efficient in the digital age. Expanding Product Range While digital gold remains a cornerstone of the platform, has expanded its product suite to include a wide array of traditional and digital assets. The forex market offers access to a broad range of currency pairs, allowing traders to take advantage of global currency fluctuations with competitive spreads and powerful trading tools. Cryptocurrency offerings include popular assets such as Bitcoin, Ethereum, and a host of altcoins, allowing users to diversify into one of the most dynamic sectors of the global economy. For those interested in traditional equities, provides access to global stock markets and ETFs, offering a straightforward way for investors to gain exposure to international stocks and sectors. This diverse portfolio of financial instruments makes a versatile platform, catering to a wide range of investor preferences and risk profiles. Commitment to Security and Transparency In today's financial landscape, security and transparency are critical, and has made these values a top priority. The platform employs advanced encryption and multi-factor authentication to ensure that user data and assets remain safe. Additionally, its commitment to regulatory compliance helps build trust with users by ensuring that its operations are transparent and accountable. Clear pricing, real-time market data, and robust risk management tools further contribute to a positive user experience, making it easy for investors to make informed decisions in an often volatile market. Global Reach and Future Outlook Looking ahead, has ambitious plans to continue innovating. The platform is exploring opportunities to integrate emerging technologies such as artificial intelligence and machine learning to offer more personalized investment strategies and insights. Additionally, is considering the integration of decentralized finance (DeFi) options, which could open up new avenues for users to engage with financial markets in a decentralized manner. A Benchmark for the Future of Internet Finance As the world increasingly turns to digital finance, is well-positioned to lead the way, shaping the future of online financial services for the next generation of investors. Disclaimer: This press release may contain forward-looking statements. Forward-looking statements describe future expectations, plans, results, or strategies (including product offerings, regulatory plans and business plans) and may change without notice. You are cautioned that such statements are subject to a multitude of risks and uncertainties that could cause future circumstances, events, or results to differ materially from those projected in the forward-looking statements, including the risks that actual results may differ materially from those projected in the forward-looking statements. MENAFN27122024004107003653ID1109036193 Legal Disclaimer: MENAFN provides the information “as is” without warranty of any kind. We do not accept any responsibility or liability for the accuracy, content, images, videos, licenses, completeness, legality, or reliability of the information contained in this article. If you have any complaints or copyright issues related to this article, kindly contact the provider above.
The Northvolt facility in Vasteras, Sweden, on Sept. 29, 2021. Helena Soderpalm/Reuters Europe’s last great hope to roll majestically into the global car battery business, Northvolt, has crashed. Another European wannabe tech giant has been humbled. China wins. On Thursday, the nominally Swedish company – it was backed by a broad range of investors and lenders, from Germany’s Volkswagen to Canada’s pension funds – filed for Chapter 11 bankruptcy protection in the United States. What was Europe’s best-funded startup, one that was to be an industry champion, could not live up to its own hype. Northvolt had raised some US$15-billion from investors and governments, yet found itself desperately short of cash in recent months, making the bankruptcy filing inevitable. It will try to keep its echo-chamber main factory in northern Sweden open while it hunts for fresh survival loans – a few bucks have arrived already. The odds do not look encouraging. “Northvolt’s liquidity picture has become dire,” the company said in its bankruptcy court petition. Northvolt was founded by two former Tesla executives in 2016, when the electric-vehicle business was pretty much a zero in Europe. But the ex-Tesla boys, aware that Tesla itself was destined for greatness under the hard-charging magician Elon Musk, evidently determined that European automakers would soon plunge headfirst into the EV pool and enjoy having a homegrown supply of battery materials. The idea proved more grandiose than realistic. Over the years, Northvolt was hobbled by severe production problems, a shortage of funding and skittish customers, a few of whom lost patience with the low output. Last summer, BMW cancelled its US$2.15-billion order for Northvolt battery cells. An overambitious and costly expansion strategy, including plans for a Canadian plant, was responsible for much of the rot. Northvolt chief executive officer Peter Carlsson, who resigned on Friday, told the media, “I should have pulled the brakes earlier on the expansion path to make sure the core engine was moving according to plan.” The subsequent upheaval in the European car business did not help. European EV sales are going in reverse as high prices, range anxiety, lack of charging points, waning EV purchase subsidies and a thin range of models that appeal to young drivers – they want iPhones on wheels – repel buyers. Europe has a sorry history of competing with the Americans and the Chinese on the tech front. In his September report on European competitiveness, or lack thereof, former European Central Bank president Mario Draghi said that no European Union company with a market value of more than €100-billion (about $145-billion) has been set up from scratch in the past half century. The six American companies worth more than €1-trillion (about $1.45-trillion) were all started over the same period. “Europe is stuck in a static industrial structure,” he said. Europe has seen this wretched playbook before. Its once-ambitious photovoltaic industry was destroyed by low-priced Chinese solar products. European consumer electronics all but vanished too. European semi-conductor companies, with the exception of ASML of the Netherlands, are relatively small (the American AI chip maker Nvidia has a stock-market value of US$3.6-trillion ($5-trillion), well north of the combined value of all the FTSE 100 companies in London). The hydrogen-fuel industry is going nowhere fast. And now Europe’s homegrown battery industry is dying. There are battery component plants in the EU, but they are mostly Chinese. One of the biggest, worth €7.3-billion ($10.6-billion), is under construction by Contemporary Amperex Technology Co. (CATL) in Hungary. China’s plants are heavily subsidized and their technology and production efficiency is well ahead of European factories. Europe simply can’t compete in this industry – as the bankruptcy of Northvolt shows. China, less so South Korea (LG) and Japan (Panasonic), own the show. The cost of Chinese batteries is falling fast, just as the Chinese solar panels did two decades ago and Chinese EVs are today. BloombergNEF says the average cost of lithium iron phosphate batteries (the ones that need no cobalt and that are gaining market share) has fallen by half in the past year to US$53 per kilowatt-hour. Not long ago, US$100 was considered virtually unattainable. The European battery industry may just as well give up. Prices of Chinese batteries and their components are unbeatable, and China dominates the supply of the critical metals, including nickel, graphite and lithium, as well. China has become The Wall. Breaching its defences is nearly impossible. The Europeans would be foolhardy to drop more billions into battery plants, though they may out of conceit or because naive governments or investors will keep throwing money at them. Herbert Diess, the Austrian who was boss of Volkswagen until 2022, has more or less said that the European battery companies are spinning their wheels. “We should do what we can do best, and we should have China making what they can do cheapest and in good quality,” he told a BloombergNEF event. The Northvolt dream is dead. European carmakers will be happy to buy cheap Chinese batteries, as they are now, for their EVs. The key question is whether European EVs are doomed too as the Chinese come on strong. Northvolt’s fate is a warning that is about as subtle as a high-speed car crash."The Chinese people are so miserable," read a social media post in the wake of yet another mass killing in the country earlier this year. The same user also warned: "There will only be more and more copycat attacks." "This tragedy reflects the darkness within society," wrote another. Such bleak assessments, following a spate of deadly incidents in China during 2024, have led to questions about what is driving people to murder strangers en masse to "take revenge on society" . Attacks like this are still rare given China's huge population, and are not new, says David Schak, associate professor at Griffith University in Australia. But they seem to come in waves, often as copycat attempts at garnering attention. This year has been especially distressing. From 2019 to 2023, police recorded three to five cases each year, where perpetrators attacked pedestrians or strangers. In 2024, that number jumped to 19. In 2019, three people were killed and 28 injured in such incidents; in 2023, 16 dead and 40 injured and in 2024, 63 people killed and 166 injured. November was especially bloody. On the 11th of that month, a 62-year-old man ploughed a car into people exercising outside a stadium in the city of Zhuhai, killing at least 35. Police said that the driver had been unhappy with his divorce settlement. He was sentenced to death this week. Days later, in Changde city, a man drove into a crowd of children and parents outside a primary school, injuring 30 of them. The authorities said he was angry over financial losses and family problems. That same week, a 21-year-old who couldn't graduate after failing his exams, went on a stabbing rampage on his campus in Wuxi city, killing eight and injuring 17. In September, a 37-year-old man raced through a Shanghai shopping centre, stabbing people as he went . In June, four American instructors were attacked at a park by a 55-year-old man wielding a knife. And there were two separate attacks on Japanese citizens, including one in which a 10-year-old boy was stabbed to death outside his school. The perpetrators have largely targeted "random people" to show their "displeasure with society", Prof Schak says. In a country with vast surveillance capabilities, where women rarely hesitate to walk alone at night, these killings have sparked understandable unease. So what has prompted so many mass attacks in China this year? A major source of pressure in China right now is the sluggish economy. It is no secret that the country has been struggling with high youth unemployment, massive debt and a real estate crisis which has consumed the life savings of many families, sometimes with nothing to show for it. On the outskirts of most major cities there are entire housing estates where construction has stopped because indebted developers cannot afford to complete them. In 2022, the BBC interviewed people camping in the concrete shells of their own unfinished apartments , without running water, electricity and windows because they had nowhere else to stay. "Optimism certainly does seem to have faded," says George Magnus, a research associate at Oxford University's China Centre. "Let's use the word trapped, just for the moment. I think China has become trapped in a sort of cycle of repression. Social repression and economic repression, on the one hand, and a kind of faltering economic development model on the other." Studies appear to point to a significant change in attitudes, with a measurable increase in pessimism among Chinese people about their personal prospects. A significant US-China joint analysis, which for years had recorded them saying that inequality in society could often be attributed to a lack of effort or ability, found in its most recent survey that people were now blaming an "unfair economic system" . "The question is who do people really blame?" Mr Magnus asks. "And the next step from that is that the system is unfair to me, and I can't break through. I can't change my circumstances." In countries with a healthy media, if you felt you had been fired from your job unfairly or that your home had been demolished by corrupt builders backed by local officials, you might turn to journalists for your story to be heard. But that is rarely an option in China, where the press is controlled by the Communist Party and unlikely to run stories which reflect badly on any level of the government. Then there are the courts – also run by and for the party – which are slow and inefficient. Much was made on social media here of the Zhuhai attacker's alleged motive: that he did not achieve what he believed was a fair divorce settlement in court. Experts say other outlets for venting frustrations have also narrowed or been shut down altogether. Chinese people often air their grievances online, says Lynette Ong, a political science professor at the University of Toronto, who has carried out significant research on how the Chinese state responds to push back from its people. "[They] will go on to the internet and scold the government... just to vent their anger. Or they may organise a small protest which the police would often allow if it's small-scale," she explains. "But this sort of dissent, small dissent, has been closed off in the last couple of years." There are plenty of examples of this: Increased internet censorship, which blocks words or expressions that are deemed controversial or critical; crackdowns on cheeky Halloween costumes that make fun of officialdom; or when plain-clothed men, who appeared to have been mobilised by local officials, beat up protesters in Henan province outside banks which had frozen their accounts. As for dealing with people's mental and emotional responses to these stresses, this too has been found wanting. Specialists say that China's counselling services are vastly inadequate, leaving no outlet for those who feel isolated, alone and depressed in modern Chinese society. "Counselling can help build up emotional resilience," says Professor Silvia Kwok from Hong Kong's City University, adding that China needs to increase its mental health services, especially for at-risk groups who have experienced trauma or those with mental illness. "People need to find different strategies or constructive ways to deal with their emotions... making them less likely to react violently in moments of intense emotional stress." Taken together, these factors suggest the lid is tightening on Chinese society, creating a pressure cooker-like situation. "There are not a lot of people going around mass killing. But still the tensions do seem to be building, and it doesn't look like there is any way it is going to ease up in the near future," Mr Magnus says. What should worry the Communist Party is the commentary from the general public blaming those in power for this. Take this remark for example: "If the government truly acts fairly and justly, there would not be so much anger and grievance in Chinese society... the government's efforts have focused on creating a superficial sense of harmony. While it may appear that they care about disadvantaged people, their actions have instead caused the greatest injustices." While violent attacks have been rising in many countries, according to Professor Ong, the difference in China is that officials have had little experience dealing with them. "I think the authorities are very alarmed because they've not seen it before, and their instinct is to crack down." When China's leader Xi Jinping spoke about the Zhuhai attack, he seemed to acknowledge pressure was building in society. He urged officials across the country to "learn hard lessons from the incident, address risks at their roots, resolve conflicts and disputes early and take proactive measures to prevent extreme crime". But, so far, the lessons learnt seem to have led to a push for quicker police response times using greater surveillance, rather than considering any changes to the way China is run. "China is moving into a new phase, a new phase that we have not seen since the late 70s," Prof Ong says, referring to the time when the country began opening to the world again, unleashing enormous change. "We need to brace for unexpected events, such as a lot of random attacks and pockets of protest and social instability emerging."Choosing the Best Builder in Marbella; The guide to construction excellence 12-17-2024 10:06 PM CET | Business, Economy, Finances, Banking & Insurance Press release from: Getnews / PR Agency: Notorial Image: https://www.globalnewslines.com/uploads/2024/12/1734447768.jpg The Costa del Sol, renowned for its breathtaking landscapes, sunny climate, and luxury living, has become a magnet for individuals seeking high-quality homes that blend sophistication with functionality. At the heart of this process lies finding the right builder in Marbella [ https://ltconstruction.es/ ] to turn a dream into reality. Whether considering a new build, a comprehensive renovation, or a property upgrade, the choice of builder can make all the difference. Why Marbella? Marbella's unique charm lies in its blend of traditional Andalusian architecture with modern luxury. Properties in the region often incorporate features such as expansive terraces, private pools, and open-plan interiors to take full advantage of the Mediterranean climate and views. With increasing demand for bespoke properties, homeowners are seeking construction companies that understand the nuances of designing and building in this iconic location. What sets top builders in Marbella apart? Choosing a builder in Marbella requires more than just a look at their portfolio. It's essential to evaluate their expertise, local knowledge, and ability to tailor projects to specific needs. Here are some aspects that distinguish leading construction companies: Extensive experience in the region. Builders who have worked extensively in Marbella understand the area's architectural standards, local regulations, and climate considerations. This ensures that projects not only meet legal requirements but are also designed to withstand the test of time. Comprehensive services. From design consultation to project completion, the best companies handle all aspects of construction. They provide transparent pricing, regular updates, and an eye for detail that guarantees client satisfaction. Specialization in luxury and renovations. Whether crafting modern villas or restoring Andalusian-style homes, experienced builders in Marbella offer a portfolio showcasing their versatility and craftsmanship. LT Construction: A leader in Marbella's construction scene One of the most trusted names in Marbella is LT Construction, a company with deep roots in the Costa del Sol. Their expertise spans new builds, luxury renovations, and comprehensive reforms, making them a go-to option for high-end projects. New Builds: LT Construction [ https://ltconstruction.es/new-construction ] takes pride in creating bespoke homes that align with each client's vision. From structural integrity to finishing touches, their team ensures the highest standards of quality and design. Renovations: For those looking to update or modernize their property, LT Construction specializes in revitalizing spaces while preserving their character and charm. Attention to detail: Whether it's a state-of-the-art kitchen, a luxurious bathroom, or outdoor living areas, LT Construction focuses on creating harmonious spaces tailored to each client's lifestyle. The importance of sustainable construction As environmental consciousness grows, sustainability has become a key focus in the construction industry. Builders in Marbella are increasingly incorporating energy-efficient designs, sustainable materials, and advanced technology to reduce the carbon footprint of new homes. Features like solar panels, energy-saving appliances, and smart home integrations not only benefit the environment but also enhance the property's value and functionality. Building the dream home: Key considerations When embarking on a construction project, several factors come into play: Budget planning: Clear and transparent pricing is crucial to avoid unexpected costs. Choose a builder who offers detailed quotes and budget flexibility. Design expertise: Whether the envisioning minimalist modern interiors or classic Mediterranean style, collaborating with architects and designers is vital to achieving thr vision. Communication: Regular updates and a collaborative approach help ensure the project runs smoothly, even if theyre managing it remotely. Why local knowledge matters Building in Marbella often involves navigating local regulations, acquiring permits, and adhering to specific architectural guidelines. Choosing a builder with local expertise can save time and avoid potential roadblocks. Companies like LT Construction leverage their extensive knowledge of Marbella's construction landscape to streamline the process and deliver impeccable results. Ready to build or renovate in Marbella? Whether upgrading a holiday home or starting fresh with a new build, Marbella provides unparalleled opportunities to create stunning properties. With a trusted builder, the journey becomes both exciting and rewarding. Contact LT Construction Today Location: Marbella, Costa del Sol Specialties: New builds, renovations, bespoke design solutions Contact: info@ltconstruction.es Turn the vision into reality with LT Construction-trusted builder in Marbella. Media Contact Company Name: Fernando Susin Maldonado Contact Person: Press Office Email: Send Email [ http://www.universalpressrelease.com/?pr=choosing-the-best-builder-in-marbella-the-guide-to-construction-excellence ] Country: Spain Website: https://ltconstruction.es/ This release was published on openPR.
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Dive Brief: Dive Insight: Today, Tractor Supply uses a mix of less-than-truckload and parcel carriers like FedEx and UPS, as well as same-day delivery providers Roadie and DoorDash, to meet its final-mile needs, per an investor presentation . But Tractor Supply has had trouble finding carriers that can meet all of its shipping needs, Yankee said. The company is often delivering bulky products like fence panels and riding lawnmowers to remote locations. Tractor Supply's average delivery weight is 48 pounds, according to the presentation. "The deliveries we're doing aren't just dropping a box on somebody's doorstep," he said. Tractor Supply has also seen promising signs for customer experience when it comes to making deliveries in-house. In those cases, the company sees a product returns rate 10 times lower than when it uses outside carriers and a 13% higher customer satisfaction score, Yankee said. In 2025, Tractor Supply's delivery goals include establishing its final-mile team, selecting routing and scheduling technology for its drivers and expanding delivery coverage out of test markets. The following two years, Tractor Supply aims to scale its coverage area and complement services provided by third-party partners. In 2028 and 2029, it plans to drive more volume to its in-house delivery operations, roll out premium service offerings and increase route density to reduce costs. "By the end of the decade, we plan to take the 15% order volume coverage we have for big and bulky items today and have the ability to cover 90 to 95% of those large item orders," Yankee said.
Willis Haviland Carrier designed and launched the first-ever air conditioning system in July 1902. For its time, it was an absolutely revolutionary innovation in technology that fundamentally changed the way people lived. Rather than having to rely upon ceiling fans and open windows to attempt to catch the breeze, customers suddenly were able to regulate the temperature in their homes better to keep themselves comfortable. Now, over a century later, the next big step in air conditioning innovation comes from HVAC subject matter expert Donny Case and his business Smart Air Technology , which is bringing change to the HVAC industry by introducing Wi-Fi bright unit technology that dramatically improves efficiency, reduces costs, and brings data-driven solutions to the outdated world of traditional thermostats. With over 40 years of experience, Case was looking for new and better ways to update technology in "an industry lingering in the past." As a business owner with a far-sighted vision, his approach led to the founding of Smart Air Technology, which offers an easy upgrade to more intelligent systems, promising to change the future of home comfort. Industry Experience & Innovation To Case, HVAC has been stuck in the past for far too long. While great strides were made to improve and build upon the foundation that Willis Haviland Carrier laid in the first few decades following its introduction, progress in the industry has since been more incremental, focusing on refining and maintaining established practices. With over 40 years of experience in the industry, Smart Air Technology has been at the forefront of seeking new ways to modernize it. Through their latest breakthrough, the team aims to update technology in an industry that has long been stuck, offering improved efficiency and future-ready solutions. Vision for the Future of Smart Systems Case's goal is for Smart Air Technology to equip all new HVAC units with built-in Wi-Fi smart technology. Wall thermostats are outdated and lack capabilities. The required unit uses are cost-ineffective, as they do not collect much more data and save little energy. What Sets Smart Air Technology Apart Smart Air Technology's app emphasizes gathering more data, using less material, and reducing labor costs, aiming to offer greater benefits than existing systems. Notable Achievements Case and Smart Air Technology received the 2024 Global Recognition Award for excellence in the industry. In September of 2024, Case was honored by the Marquis Who's Who of America for his innovative leadership and dedication to improving indoor air quality. Thus far, the company's air conditioning inventions have affected over a million people across five continents. Energy Savings: Why It Matters Smart Air Technology is bringing HVAC into the era of actual modern homes with increased efficiency, less cost, and better communication capabilities. Their units save energy, use fewer materials, and collect valuable data, offering new solutions for homeowners and businesses. The year 1902 was so long ago that Willis Haviland Carrier and his team might as well have been operating on an entirely different planet. There was no concern for the environment's safety, no digitization of data, no internet, no Wi-Fi, etc. In 2024, the world is a very different place. Donny Case and Smart Air Technology are helping to move the HVAC industry into this new era by improving air conditioning technology for the environment, businesses, and you. Partner for Progress To learn more about how the company is improving the HVAC industry, visit the Smart Air Technology Website and explore the benefits of Wi-Fi smart units. If you'd like to become an integral part of Smart Air Technology's expansion and further this eco-friendly, efficient technology, visit the Fundable Pitch Deck for more information on investment opportunities.Nine CSU Rams earn Mountain West all-conference honorsGlobal stocks end mostly up with DAX crossing 20,000 for 1st time