Missed kicks. Poor tackling. Costly penalties. Week 12 was filled with sloppy play around the NFL, leading to some upsets and surprising outcomes. Jayden Daniels nearly led Washington to an improbable comeback down 10 in the final two minutes against Dallas only to fall short because Austin Seibert's extra point sailed wide left. After a field goal and successful onside kick, Daniels connected with Terry McLaurin on an 86-yard catch-and-run touchdown to bring the Commanders within one point with 21 seconds remaining. But Seibert's point-after attempt failed and the Cowboys returned the ensuing onside kick for a touchdown to seal a 34-26 victory. Special teams were atrocious for both teams. Seibert also missed his first extra point and Washington allowed KaVontae Turpin's 99-yard kickoff return for a score earlier in the fourth quarter. The Cowboys missed a field goal, had another blocked and had a punt blocked. "What a wild special teams moment of blocked punts, kicks, kickoff returns, blocked field goals, just a number of things going to that spot," Commanders coach Dan Quinn said. Washington (7-5) was a 10 1/2-point favorite over the undermanned Cowboys (4-7) but ended up losing a third straight game. The Houston Texans were 8-point favorites against the lowly Tennessee Titans and let the game come down to Ka'imi Fairbairn missing a 28-yard field goal that would have tied it with just under two minutes left. C.J. Stroud threw two interceptions, was sacked four times and the Texans (7-5) committed 11 penalties, including an illegal shift that negated a go-ahead 33-yard TD pass to Nico Collins on the drive that ended with Fairbairn's miss in the 32-27 loss. The Titans (3-8) averaged just 17 points per game before putting 32 on the scoreboard against Houston's defense that entered No. 4 in the league. "We didn't do anything well enough to win this game," Texans coach DeMeco Ryans said. "Out of all the positives that we did have, there were way too many negatives. Too many negative plays. Score, get a penalty, get touchdowns called back. Get penalties on special teams. Just way too many negative plays defensively, like unexplainable explosives for touchdowns. We just didn't play good across the board." The San Francisco 49ers didn't have quarterback Brock Purdy, star edge rusher Nick Bosa and All-Pro left tackle Trent Williams against Green Bay. That was no excuse for their undisciplined performance. The Niners committed nine penalties and their tackling was shoddy in a 38-10 loss to the Packers. The defending NFC champions are 5-6 with a trip to Buffalo (9-2) coming up. They're still only one game behind Seattle and Arizona in the NFC West. "I'm really not concerned right now about how many guys were missing. We didn't play good enough, so that's not a factor. But, when you are missing some guys, you do have to be better. When you have those penalties and we didn't stop the run like we did and we had those three turnovers in the second half, that's how you get embarrassed." Coming off their first loss of the season, the two-time defending Super Bowl champion Chiefs needed Patrick Mahomes' heroics on the final drive to beat Carolina 30-27. Mahomes ran 33 yards to set up Spencer Schrader's 31-yard field goal as time expired. Kansas City had 10 penalties, including a pass interference that gave the Panthers (3-8) another chance to make the 2-point conversion that tied the game with 1:46 remaining. On defense, the Chiefs (10-1) suddenly shaky unit gave up 334 total yards against Bryce Young and an offense that entered last in the NFL. "We've got to do better. We're doing good in the red zone but that's only a third of the field," Chiefs safety Bryan Cook said. "We will go back and look at the film to see what we're doing week to week, and see the tendencies that we're giving up, and just move forward from there. At the end of the day, we're all vets in the room for the most part. ... got to go back to the drawing board and see what we're doing and correct it from there." The Vikings allowed the Bears to recover an onside kick with 21 seconds left and Caleb Williams followed with a 27-yard pass to D.J. Moore to set up Cairo Santos' tying 48-yard field goal. But Minnesota won in overtime, 30-27. The Chiefs and Vikings overcame their mistakes in narrow victories. The Commanders, Texans and 49ers couldn't. They have to be better down the stretch to make a playoff run. Get local news delivered to your inbox!None
Nigeria’s Ademola Lookman is crowned Africa’s Footballer of the Year for 2024 by the Confederation of African Football (CAF) and the entire nation, North, South, East and West is agog with celebration. Sports lovers in all parts of the country are rejoicing the laurel as an achievement by Nigeria as a nation. Yet, for some, not all parts of the country should be proud of these types of feat. This is the subject of a recent post on Twitter by Reno Omokri about young Nigerians, who have achieved global fame, to which one Ugochukwu, from the South, made a response. Omokri shared it on Facebook and it reads: “My question is and has always been: what does northern youths (add/contribute) to Nigeria as a country? They'(re) never celebrated anything/anywhere home/abroad, not in sports, education, business/commerce, entertainment etc. I would like to know what they’re good in or at.” Of course, Omokri, one Southern social commentator, who is known for his defence of Northern Nigeria, its people and culture has sprung up a strong and apt defence, invoking the names of young national and global achievers like Chevrolet Volt inventor, Jelani Aliyu, ace footballer Ahmed Musa and so on to prove the folly of that comment. This is not, however, the first time such assessment of the North is made, neither will it be the last, in spite of several factual rebuttals by those who know better. And while in some instances this low opinion on Arewa is solely motivated by the urge to pull the section of the country down, particularly by elements who actually know the view they express is false, there are Nigerians who innocently think the narrative is true. Omokri points to this lack of awareness amongst many Southerners, when he observes that, “the issue with many of us from the South is that we think (because) others are not as loud and obnoxious as ourselves in our arrogant display, then they are not achieving things. He also buttresses his stand on the true position of the North by referring to the assessment of credible and impartial authorities. “If not for Forbes,” he retorts, ” we would (not) have (at) all believed that some (of those) people were the wealthiest folk in Nigeria,” “There are more young entrepreneurs in Kano”, Omokri argues, ” than in the whole of the Southeast”, obviously in reference to the part of Nigeria Ugochukwu, the target of his intervention hails from.” These facts are presented in a tone that even a northerner could not have expressed more poignantly and indignantly. The issue is that the North as a region of Nigeria has not cared to make the facts known often enough. What Omokri referred to as not being “as loud” is actually not having the capability to be heard at all. Most people in Southern Nigeria honestly know little or nothing at all, about Jelani Aliyu, even when he was DG of the National Automotive Design and Development Council (NADDC). The few who know him are for the most part, automobile enthusiasts, who may acknowledge his achievement as a global stage innovator but do not necessarily recognise him for the part of the country he hails from because there is no effort from any quarters to promote any consciousness of that about an icon like Jelani Aliyu or anyone else. Ahmed Musa is Africa’s highest World Cup Goal scorer and he got all his three goals for Nigeria but that was not in the front burner at the last AFCON, when he was given a mere chaperone role by the technical crew. Neither was Ace Real Sociedad striker Sadiq Umar in any reckoning in the Eagles’ camp before he left the AFCON due to “injury”, only to be fit enough to play in the very next match for his Spanish club. There is no doubt that if these national icons from the North were from the South, they would have commanded the pervasive appeal for the entire nation to stand for them like their Southern counterparts, who have found fame across boundaries, from Lagos to Maiduguri, Port Harcourt to Sokoto. So, the issue is not so much that of sectional sentiment, as it is of the unequal capacities of the two parts of Nigeria in handling and promoting their individual and collective achievements and successes to the world. Southern Nigeria are light years ahead of the North in not only recognising but also showcasing the accomplishments of their society and even though the bar for recognition in that part of the country is high, no achievement is ignored or unsung. This cumulates and projects the successes of the South so much that it creates for them, an unassailable pedigree in all human endeavors. And the tradition is sustained through the effective use of all media especially the mass media, in the preponderance of which the Southwest particularly, is unmatched by any other part of Nigeria. In fact, from this perspective, the Southern attitude that Omokri partly described as “loud” can be viewed as a positive attribute, more so in exclusion of the “obnoxious” habit of some Southerners, of being incapable of celebrating their heroes, without belittling another part of the country. Even so, it is solely up to the North, which is the target of this pull-down, to disprove this negative narrative, otherwise silence is admission, even of a claim that is false. It was the Northern legend and founding hero, Sir Ahmadu Bello, who said the North would blow its own trumpet because everybody else was busy blowing their own. That remark by the Northern Premier must have inspired the choice of the trumpeter as the image in the crest of the Northern Region Ministry of Information. It seems though, that since the split of the region into twelve states in 1970, the North has all but forsaken and altogether lost Sardauna’s trumpet. Of the hundreds of private media establishments of all categories in Nigeria, only a handful are of Northern ownership. And even the slightest possibility of bridging this gap is eliminated by the dearth of patronage and support for the few media professionals in the North, which renders them incapable of setting up media outfits. In this situation, subscription to media services by governments, corporate organisations and individuals from the North is almost exclusively to Southern professionals and establishments, which sustains the trend. Therefore, positive coverage of Northern Nigeria in the nation’s press and media, is solely by virtue of commercial patronage and it lasts until the chips are down and regional interests are at stake. For, according to a Hausa proverb, “each bird sings the song of its flock.” The old proverb, “who pays the piper dictates the tune” may apply to the Nigerian media in normal times but on critical occasions, when media practitioners and establishments find it obligatory to make a choice, the adage, “blood is thicker than water” is more appropriate.Phillies add depth to bullpen with 1-year deal for reliever Joe Ross
EDMONTON - Alberta election officials say they are working to get the word out as they deal with a Canada Post strike ahead of a Christmas-week byelection in Lethbridge-West. Because of the postal workers’ strike, Elections Alberta cannot send “Where to Vote” cards to voters, and it says special mail-in ballots must be shipped through a courier service or dropped off in person ahead of the Dec. 18 vote. The office has a plan in motion to inform residents using print, radio, media and online ads, and by distributing flyers across the riding with general information. Elections Alberta spokesperson Robyn Bell said if people are concerned about weather or travel plans getting in the way, there are many ways they can vote and information is available on the Elections Alberta website or by phone. She noted byelections tend to have lower turnouts than general elections, averaging only about 31 per cent of electors over the past five years. “The Canada Post strike presents a unique challenge that we haven’t seen in recent years,” she said. The last time an Alberta byelection was held so close to Christmas was on Dec. 14, 2017. Although Bell said Elections Alberta aims to be in a state of election readiness at all times, the timing of the Lethbridge vote has been a political football. The vote will fill a vacancy created July 1 when NDP Lethbridge-West legislature member Shannon Phillips resigned. NDP Leader Naheed Nenshi had repeatedly urged Premier Danielle Smith to call it once both his party and the governing United Conservative Party had their candidates in place in September. Nenshi said Smith waited until the last second to call the race because, he said, lower voter turnout only benefits the UCP. “The premier had all summer and all fall to call this election, and she decided to wait till the last second because she doesn’t want people to vote,” he told reporters in the legislature Wednesday. Smith has said that she was waiting for Nenshi - who does not have a seat in the legislature - to declare his intentions to run for a seat so that two byelections could be called at once. On Monday, Smith pointed to the de facto appointment of one of her MLAs in the interim during question period in the legislature. “We have a fantastic MLA who’s been doing double duty, representing both ridings of Lethbridge-East and Lethbridge-West, and we’re grateful for his efforts in doing so,” she said, referring to Affordability Minister Nathan Neudorf. Earlier this week, the NDP’s executive director, Garett Spelliscy, penned a letter to Alberta’s chief electoral officer on Monday calling for “robust voter outreach” to ensure turnout isn’t low. He also noted that, as of Sunday, the Elections Alberta website listed the wrong election date. Bell said that was due to a human error, and all their materials have since been updated. “It’s really unfortunate that it happened in the first place - the NDP were the ones to notify us of the mistake, and we took immediate actions to correct it,” she said. The NDP candidate is Rob Miyashiro while John Middleton-Hope is running under the UCP banner. Advance voting begins on Dec. 10. This report by The Canadian Press was first published Nov. 27, 2024.Germany's far-right AfD holds march after Christmas market attack
Mercury Wins New Development Program That Leverages Its Common Processing ArchitectureToday, President of Turkmenistan Serdar Berdimuhamedov held an extended meeting of the Cabinet of Ministers and the State Security Council, which was also attended by the hakims of the velayats and the city of Ashgabat. Opening the meeting, the head of Turkmenistan gave the floor to the Chairperson of the Mejlis D. Gulmanova. First of all, the head of the national Parliament, on behalf of the deputies, warmly congratulated President Serdar Berdimuhamedov and the National Leader of the Turkmen people, Chairman of the Halk Maslahaty of Turkmenistan Hero Arkadag on the upcoming New Year, wished that 2025 under the leadership of the President of Turkmenistan, together with generosity and abundance, would bring great successes and achievements to our prosperous country, good health and longevity to the head of state and Hero Arkadag. As noted, on the initiative of the National Leader of the Turkmen people, Chairman of the Halk Maslahaty, Hero Arkadag has become a good tradition in our country to name him in a modern way every year to commemorate important events related to the history of the Fatherland, its development, and achievements in international relations. Thanks to the implementation of the original traditions of peacefulness and humanism, the significance of the legal status of the permanent neutrality of the Fatherland is growing on the world stage. The foreign policy strategy implemented under the leadership of the President of Turkmenistan, laid down by Hero Arkadag and based on the principles of equality, mutual understanding, good neighbourliness, and positive neutrality, finds broad support in the Community of Nations. Taking into account the proposals received from representatives of the Halk Maslahaty, public organisations, labour collectives and citizens, in accordance with the remarkable poem «Turkmenistan - Homeland of Peace and Trust», generated by the brilliant talent and wisdom of the National Leader of the Turkmen people, Chairman of the Halk Maslahaty Gurbanguly Berdimuhamedov, following the valuable recommendations of the Hero Arkadag, as well as on the occasion of the adoption of the Resolution «2025 - International Year of Peace and Trust» by the UN General Assembly on the initiative of Turkmenistan, the Mejlis prepared a Resolution on declaring the coming year the «International Year of Peace and Trust». In addition, the emblem of the coming year was presented to the head of state for consideration. Addressing the participants of the meeting, President Serdar Berdimuhamedov noted that every year a motto is proclaimed and an emblem is approved for the coming year that corresponds to modern times. As is known, at the initiative of Turkmenistan, the United Nations General Assembly unanimously adopted the Resolution «2025 - International Year of Peace and Trust», the head of state continued, emphasising that, based on this, members of the country's Mejlis, together with the people, presented the motto and emblem of the coming year. Having approved this proposal, President Serdar Berdimuhamedov announced the motto of 2025 - «International Year of Peace and Trust». This decision was met with thunderous applause. Then, addressing the participants of the meeting, the head of Turkmenistan noted that in the «International Year of Peace and Trust» the independent Fatherland will widely celebrate the 30th anniversary of permanent neutrality. On the occasion of this significant date, a number of international events are planned in our country and the countries of the world. To hold the celebrations dedicated to the International Year of Peace and Trust at a high level, a State Organising Committee has been created, said President Serdar Berdimuhamedov, noting that he considers it appropriate to entrust the Halk Maslahaty with the management of the activities of this Organising Committee. At the same time, it was emphasised that every effort will be made to properly organize all planned events. The head of Turkmenistan noted with satisfaction that in the year of «Fount of Wisdom Magtymguly Fragi» historically significant changes were implemented in our country. Our people live a peaceful and happy life. The 300th anniversary of the birth of the great son of the Turkmen people Magtymguly Fragi was widely celebrated at the international level. Continuing the meeting, President Serdar Berdimuhamedov reported that he had completed work on the book «Magtymguly – dünýäniň akyldary», which highlights the literary heritage of the outstanding master of words, his enormous contribution to world culture, and the events held on the occasion of the poet's anniversary. It also reflects the high achievements and successes achieved by our country, the head of state emphasised, stating that in this regard, the book is a worthy gift for the native people. Then the floor was given to Deputy Chairman of the Cabinet of Ministers, Minister of Foreign Affairs R. Meredov, who noted that the current meeting, held at the end of 2024, considered an issue of great importance. Namely, today the President of Turkmenistan declared 2025 the «International Year of Peace and Trust». In this regard, the Deputy Prime Minister, the head of the Ministry of Foreign Affairs, on behalf of all participants of the meeting, expressed deep gratitude and sincere congratulations to the head of state and the National Leader of the Turkmen people, the Chairman of the Halk Maslahaty. As was emphasised, this event is a logical result of the implementation of the initiative of President Serdar Berdimuhamedov, voiced at the UN and recognised by the world community. As is known, on 21st of March, 2024, the General Assembly of the United Nations, at the proposal of the head of Turkmenistan, unanimously proclaimed 2025 the «International Year of Peace and Trust». The corresponding resolution was co-authored by 86 states. This initiative is a logical continuation and implementation of the new philosophy of interstate relations put forward by the National Leader of the Turkmen people, Chairman of the Halk Maslahaty of Turkmenistan, father of the nation Hero Arkadag. Today the whole world knows and accepts this political and philosophical doctrine as «Dialogue is a guarantee of peace». In the coming year of 2025, which will be one of the most significant in the life of our state and society, conferences, forums, competitions, exhibitions, etc. will be held in Turkmenistan and abroad. In this regard, the importance of the proposal of the head of state on the advisability of holding upcoming events under the leadership of the Halk Maslahaty of Turkmenistan together with the international community was noted. The Deputy Prime Minister, the head of the Ministry of Foreign Affairs assured President Serdar Berdimuhamedov that all necessary measures will be taken to organise the planned events at a high level. The Deputy Chairman of the Cabinet of Ministers, Minister of Foreign Affairs also emphasised that the book «Magtymguly – dünýäniň akyldary» by the President of Turkmenistan, presented at today’s historic meeting of the Government on the eve of the New Year, has become a great gift to all compatriots and the peoples of foreign countries. At the initiative of the head of state and Hero Arkadag, 2024 is held under the motto «Fount of Wisdom Magtymguly Fragi». During the current year, dedicated to the celebration of the 300th anniversary of the great classical poet and philosopher, his philosophy and poetry, embodying the interconnection of times and civilisations, personifying enduring universal humanistic values, have received wide coverage throughout the world. A vivid example of this is the International Forum held in Ashgabat in October 2024, as well as hundreds of various events held in Turkmenistan and abroad. On behalf of the participants of the Cabinet of Ministers meeting, the Deputy Prime Minister and the head of the Ministry of Foreign Affairs cordially congratulated President Serdar Berdimuhamedov on the publication of the book and wished him new creative achievements, good health, longevity and success in all noble deeds. Thanking for the kind words, the President of Turkmenistan noted that 2024 is coming to an end, a year that will forever remain in the history of an independent neutral state. In the past year, meetings of the Cabinet of Ministers, the State Security Council, and various state conferences were held, where important issues of domestic and foreign policy of our Fatherland were considered. At the same time, it was stated that programmatic activities are being carried out to develop the national economy. Among the achievements, high growth rates in all sectors, timely financing of a 10 percent increase in wages, pensions, state benefits and student scholarships, and the adoption of new laws ensuring the prosperity of Turkmenistan were named. The policy, based on the principles: «The Motherland is the Motherland only with the people!», «The state is the state only with the people!», is being successfully implemented, said President Serdar Berdimuhamedov, noting that the construction of industrial and socio-cultural facilities, large residential areas continues in all regions of the independent country. Our neutral Fatherland is consistently developing effective interaction with authoritative international and regional structures, primarily with the United Nations, said the head of Turkmenistan, emphasising that the UN General Assembly, on the initiative of the Turkmen state, adopted a number of resolutions. Moving on to the issues of preparation for the upcoming celebrations, President Serdar Berdimuhamedov focused on the need to organise duty in all structures during the New Year celebrations. Along with this, emphasis was placed on the importance of ensuring the uninterrupted operation of public utilities, energy and water supply services, hospitals, and stores. In order to create conditions for a good rest of citizens and a high-level celebration of the New Year holiday, it is necessary to maintain strict control over the observance of law and order everywhere, the head of Turkmenistan ordered. Concluding the extended meeting of the Cabinet of Ministers and the State Security Council, President Serdar Berdimuhamedov cordially congratulated its participants on the New Year 2025, wishing them success in their work for the sake of further improving the social and living conditions of the people and the development of a sovereign state in the coming year.Analysis: Week 12 full of sloppy play, especially on special teams
Share Tweet Share Share Email Investing has transformed significantly over the years, with opportunities expanding far beyond traditional stocks and bonds. Among the more unconventional yet increasingly popular options are wine and spirits investment platforms. These platforms offer a unique blend of passion and profit, attracting both seasoned investors and curious newcomers. The Rise of Alternative Investments Alternative investments have gained traction. Investors are no longer confined to traditional assets. Real estate, art, and collectibles have emerged as viable options. Among these, fine wine and rare spirits hold a special allure. Their value is rooted in scarcity, quality, and cultural significance. Moreover, they offer diversification, helping to mitigate market risks. Why Wine and Spirits? Wine and spirits, particularly fine vintages and rare whiskies, have consistently demonstrated appreciation over time. Here are a few reasons why they make attractive investments: Scarcity Factor: High-quality wines and rare whiskies are produced in limited quantities. Once consumed, they cannot be replaced, driving up demand for existing bottles. A Tangible Asset: Unlike stocks, wine and spirits are physical assets. They offer both intrinsic value and aesthetic appeal. Proven Track Record: Indices like the Liv-ex Fine Wine 100 show steady growth, often outperforming traditional markets. Cultural Prestige: Owning rare bottles conveys sophistication and taste, making them sought-after collectibles. How Wine and Spirits Investment Platforms Work Investment platforms have revolutionized the accessibility of this market. Here’s a breakdown of their operation: Acquisition: The platform sources fine wines and spirits directly from producers, auctions, or private collectors. Storage: Proper storage is critical. Platforms provide climate-controlled facilities to ensure optimal preservation. Valuation: Professional appraisers evaluate the market value of each bottle or cask. Trading: Investors can buy, sell, or hold their assets through the platform’s marketplace. Returns: Profits are realized when the asset appreciates in value and is sold. Benefits of Investing Through Platforms Using a dedicated platform simplifies the process. Investors gain access to expert knowledge, secure storage, and global markets. Additionally, many platforms offer fractional ownership, allowing smaller investments in high-value assets. This lowers the entry barrier and broadens the investor base. Key Considerations for Investors While the potential for profit is enticing, there are factors to consider: Authenticity: Verify the provenance of each bottle to avoid counterfeits. Storage and Insurance: Ensure your assets are stored securely and insured against risks. Market Trends: Stay updated on market trends and emerging producers. Liquidity: Understand that these are long-term investments. Selling may take time. Notable Wine and Spirits Investment Platforms Several platforms stand out for their reputation and offerings: Vinovest: Known for its transparency, Vinovest allows users to build a customized portfolio of fine wines. CaskX: Specializing in whisky casks, CaskX offers access to premium distilleries. WineCap: Focused on data-driven investments, WineCap provides in-depth market analysis. Cult Wines: With a global presence, Cult Wines caters to both individual and institutional investors. The Role of Technology Technology plays a pivotal role in democratizing access to wine and spirits investments. Blockchain ensures authenticity and traceability, reducing the risk of fraud. Artificial intelligence analyzes market trends, helping investors make informed decisions. These advancements make the market more accessible and secure . Real-Life Success Stories Numerous investors have reaped significant rewards through wine and spirits. For instance, a bottle of 1945 Romanée-Conti sold for a record-breaking $558,000 at auction. Similarly, rare whiskies from distilleries like Macallan have seen exponential growth in value. These success stories highlight the potential of this unconventional market. Risks to Watch Out For Like any investment, wine and spirits come with risks: Market Volatility: Prices can fluctuate based on economic conditions and consumer trends. Counterfeits: The market has seen a rise in fake bottles. Due diligence is crucial. Storage Issues: Improper storage can diminish the quality and value of the asset. How to Get Started Research: Learn about the market, including key players and valuation metrics. Choose a Platform: Select a reputable platform that aligns with your goals. Start Small: Begin with a modest investment to understand the nuances. Monitor: Keep track of your portfolio and market developments. The Future of Wine and Spirits Investments The future looks promising for this niche market. Growing global wealth and rising interest in luxury goods are driving demand. Additionally, sustainability-focused wineries and distilleries are attracting environmentally conscious investors. As technology continues to innovate, this market is set to expand further. Final Thoughts Wine and spirits investment platforms offer an intriguing way to grow wealth while indulging in a passion. They combine the allure of fine craftsmanship with tangible financial rewards. However, like any investment, they require careful consideration and due diligence. For those willing to explore beyond conventional assets, this market holds immense potential . Related Items: Alternative Investments , Real-Life Success Stories , Wine and Spirits Investment Share Tweet Share Share Email Recommended for you From Bolton to the World: The Remarkable Rise of Private Equity Star Daanish Hussain 5 Ways To Invest Over The Long-Term How to Invest in Art if You’re Not Filthy Rich CommentsWA’s Liberal party leader has thrown down the gauntlet to challengers after polling predicted the “immediate appointment” of Perth Lord Mayor Basil Zempilas as leader would allow the flailing party to gain back five seats at the election. Libby Mettam has labelled the polling, commissioned by a mystery Perth business person with links to the party, as ‘flawed and clearly biased’, and has challenged anyone who wishes to be leader to move a no confidence motion against her during a meeting today. Perth Lord Mayor Basil Zempilas and Liberal Party leader Libby Mettam. Credit: Holly Thompson/ Supplied “Constant undermining of leaders, especially from the shadows within, is a sad reality in politics today,” she said. “But rather than weaken me it has made me stronger and more determined to succeed - not for myself - but for the people of Western Australia who deserve better. “I’m not a quitter, I’m a fighter.” The polling, published in The West Australian today, suggested another catastrophic election for the Liberals come election day in March. The party currently holds just three out of 59 seats in the Legislative Assembly, with the polling predicting the party has gone backwards since the 2021 election bloodbath, losing ground in 14 key metropolitan seats. Under Mettam, the party is predicted to suffer a 4 per cent drop, with the Liberal primary vote falling to 31 per cent in blue-ribbon seats like Churchlands and Nedlands. On the flip-side, the polling suggests a 3 per cent swing towards the Liberal party under Zempilas’ leadership, and a 38 per cent primary vote. The research, carried out by Sodali and Co, said Zempilas’ leadership could deliver wins in Churchlands, Nedlands, Carine, Bateman and Scarborough. Here’s what’s making news this morning. Former Hancock Prospecting employee James Radford, Sam Bjelke-Petersen, Gina Rinehart and former Liberal Party vice president Teena McQueen at a Trump rally in Virginia. Mostly sunny today with a top of 25 degrees. Good morning readers, and welcome to our live news blog for Tuesday, November 26. Making headlines this morning, Perth is tipped to outperform the rest of the country in property price growth with forecasts predicting double figure jumps in 2025. Meanwhile, cast your mind back to your school days – or, rather, the very end of your school days and the next step you took. Did you get a high score to enrol in the university degree of your choice? Did you decide to bypass the ATAR exams – or the equivalent of the era, for those older readers – and go straight into an apprenticeship? What about if you got a high ATAR score, but decided to go down the vocational pathway? That’s the situation Ellie Wotherspoon found herself in, having graduated from school with an impressive ATAR of 91. With an ATAR like that, Wotherspoon could have studied law, or medicine, or molecular science. But currently, she’s an electrician working on one of oil and gas giant Woodside’s offshore rigs. Wotherspoon tells WAtoday education reporter Holly Thompson what made her choose the sparky life here. Ellie Wotherspoon, from WA, has attended TAFE and university after receiving an ATAR over 90. And regular readers of this blog – and WAtoday more broadly – would know we’ve got our fingers on the pulse of this great state’s dining scene. And today, food writer Max Veenhuyzen fills you in on the latest happenings in the world of pastry cases with, er, fillings. From creative fillings to stocking choc milk and ginger beer in the fridge, a cosy nostalgia-fuelled takeaway in Leederville celebrates both the past and the future. Always on the lookout for a great pie? Read the latest from Max here. Thanks again for joining us today, stay with us as we bring you all the news you need to know.
Trinity Rodman (via: Yahoo.com) Trinity Rodman is making waves both on the field and off. At just 22, the Washington Spirit star has already captured attention with her incredible talent and bold personality. Now, she’s aiming for a new goal, hosting the iconic Saturday Night Live (SNL). With her impressive performances and a growing international career, Rodman is ready to take on this exciting challenge. Will SNL be ready for her? The stage is set. Rodman sets her sights on SNL Trinity Rodman: The Truth about My Family Trinity Rodman, the rising star of the Washington Spirit, recently revealed her dream of hosting one of TV's most iconic shows; Saturday Night Live (SNL). At just 22, she’s already made a name for herself in the NWSL with her thrilling performances and international success, scoring three goals in six matches during the 2024 Summer Olympics. In a recent Instagram Live, Trinity playfully but seriously expressed her ambition to host the legendary NBC show, which has seen famous athletes like Charles Barkley (1993) and Michael Jordan (1991) take the stage. Her confident declaration, shared in a clip on Thursday, quickly excited fans eager to see her take on this new challenge. "Okay, my dream is to host SNL," she started. "I want to host SNL. I think it would be so funny and I think it will be hilarious. Guys, DM SNL and tell them that I wanna host." (via: Sportskeeda) Rodman’s excitement about guest hosting is infectious, revealing her long-time admiration for the iconic role. Over the years, sports legends like Nancy Kerrigan, Ronda Rousey, and Chris Evert have taken the spot, but if Rodman gets her chance, she’ll make history as the first female soccer player to do so. On the field, Rodman’s 2024 season was stellar. She led the Spirit to a second-place finish in the NWSL with an 18-2 record, just behind the Orlando Pride. The team dominated in the playoffs, though they narrowly lost 1-0 to the Pride in the championship game. As Rodman enjoys some well-earned rest during the offseason, controversy continues to follow her every move, adding another layer of intrigue to her already thrilling career. Also Read: Dwyane Wade's Christmas celebration takes a downturn as family deals with "Sick Baby" issues Trinity Rodman called Dennis Rodman her father by blood Almost two weeks ago, Trinity Rodman opened up on the Call Her Daddy podcast about her complicated relationship with her father, Dennis Rodman. In a candid conversation, she revealed that she doesn't see him as a true father figure in her life. "I lost hope in ever getting him back. I answer the phone now for my conscience to be like, 'He needed to hear my voice,' before anything happens. That's why I answer the phone, not for me. He's not a dad, maybe by blood, but nothing else." The drama took a sharp turn on social media when Dennis issued an apology to Trinity via an Instagram post, an attempt that only seemed to deepen the tension between them, leaving the forward far from impressed.Demystifying the Local AI Ecosystem to Inform Future Growth SEATTLE , Nov. 25, 2024 /PRNewswire/ -- Washington Technology Industry Association (WTIA), a non-profit organization dedicated to fostering a robust, equity-centered technology sector that empowers thriving communities, today released a comprehensiv e report detailing Washington state's artificial intelligence (AI) landscape . The Washington State Artificial Intelligence Landscape report provides a deep dive into the state's AI ecosystem, highlighting key trends, challenges, and opportunities for growth. The report was developed in partnership with Moonbeam Exchange and by the WTIA Advanced Technology Cluster , which is funded through the Washington State Department of Commerce Innovation Cluster Accelerator Program. The report highlights Washington's leadership, strengths, opportunities, and areas for improvement. The report finds that Washington state ranks 6th across the US according to 5 key innovation dimensions (Startups, Government-Industry R&D, Government-Academia R&D, Investors, Jobs). Individually, Washington ranks: 5 th in startup activity. 7 th in investor activity. 5 th in job activity. 10 th in federally-funded university research & development (R&D) activity 14 th in federally-funded industry R&D activity. " Washington state is at the forefront as it extends its global expertise in cloud computing to power the next wave of AI ," said Nirav Desai, CEO at Moonbeam Exchange. "This report underscores the state's potential to become a global leader in AI. We are excited to collaborate with the WTIA to share these insights with the broader community." "AI is transforming industries and creating new economic opportunities," said Kelly Fukai , COO at WTIA. "This report provides valuable data and analysis that will help policymakers, businesses, and investors understand the AI landscape in Washington state and capitalize on its growth potential." The report offers actionable insights that will be used to inform economic development, workforce development, and policy activities across the state to foster AI innovation and development in Washington . These recommendations include: Provide more opportunities for founders to help develop skills, be introduced to resources, access peer mentoring and networking programs to assist in revitalizing the startup ecosystem and attract new founders and startups to the state. Assist with federal R&D funding applications for startups and academic institutions throughout the state. Additionally, founder education on how to solicit and win non-dilutive investment is critical to the advancement of deep-tech in the state. Proactively tell the story of the state, to attract national and international capital and incumbent investment. A flagship conference or an expansion of international trade shows and trade mission delegations will help with this narrative. The public sector and state associations could recruit and host delegations for the purposes of the attraction of new sources of capital. Activate the tech ecosystem with more focus on in-person programming; curated events for founders and investors to meet and exchange ideas. The full report is available for download here : https://share.hsforms.com/1RAtJGiVkSwaXLwuNoZXzQgr4oir . About WTIA The Washington Technology Industry Association (WTIA) is a consortium that includes a not-for-profit member trade association, a federally and state regulated association health plan, and a for profit corporation providing business services. The organization's mission is to foster a robust, equity-centered technology sector that empowers thriving communities. We recruit technology companies and allies that view diversity as a competitive advantage, value collaboration as essential to sustainable growth, and fully embrace the opportunity to partner with and empower the communities in which we operate. Contact: Nick Ellingson , Advanced Technology Cluster Manager, [email protected] SOURCE Washington Technology Industry AssociationMax - who is best known for starring in The Wanted - wrote on Instagram: "Say hello to my little friend! Given the last 10 days, this is the best Christmas present I could've ever wished for. "Pacemaker is in. Operation took around 2 and half hours. The main issue being some of my veins had collapsed where the wires were meant to go... But the surgeons and nurses at the NHS have been incredible. I owe everything to them. "The surgeon kindly put my pacemaker just underneath a very special tattoo of mine.. So I'm sure it's being looked after. (sic)" Max intends to focus on his recovery in the next few days and weeks, before he tackles life "full on once again". The pop star wrote: "Few more tests to do due to inflamed lymph nodes on my lungs, but that'll be easy work! "Time to rest and then tackle life full on once again [heart emoji] Thank you for all your support. It's meant a hell of a lot to myself and my family (sic)" Max previously admitted that he didn't have "too much time to wait" before undergoing surgery. The singer wrote on Instagram: "Had a little day trip today. Full CT scan on my heart. Not something I'd choose to do again! "As I mentioned yesterday, I have a 2:1 block in my heart. Unfortunately my heart rate hasn't picked up at all in almost a week. Because of this, we don't have too much time to wait so it looks like I'm going to be in surgery way quicker than the doctors first thought. I may even be home for Christmas! (sic)"
PHILADELPHIA (AP) — The Philadelphia Phillies and right-handed pitcher Joe Ross finalized a one-year contract on Monday. The 31-year-old Ross made 10 starts and 25 total appearances for the Milwaukee Brewers last season. He went 3-6 with a 3.77 ERA. Selected by the San Diego Padres in the first round of the 2011 amateur draft, the 6-foot-4 Ross has pitched in 123 career games across seven seasons with the Washington Nationals and Brewers. In his career, he has combined for a 4.19 ERA with 469 strikeouts to 170 walks. He's 29-34 with a 4.19 career ERA. Ross is the latest in an offseason of minor moves for the NL East champs. The Phillies acquired left-hander Jesús Luzardo from the Miami Marlins and signed free-agent outfielder Max Kepler to a $10 million, one-year deal. ___ AP MLB: https://apnews.com/hub/MLB The Associated PressFrom Deepika Padukone to Kareena Kapoor: Christmas-worthy red outfits worn by Bollywood divas Ranthambore's 10 safari zones: A guide to guaranteed tiger sightings Karisma Kapoor's saree fusion redefines the ultimate fashion statement 9 reasons to include moringa leaves in your diet on a daily basis Janhvi Kapoor gears up for a glamorous Christmas celebration 10 signs your employees are losing interest in their jobs Baby names based on adorable names of Jesus Christ 10 classics that resonate the true spirit of Christmas Christmas 2024: How to make Coffee Walnut Cake for the special feast
The hits keep coming for Justin Baldoni, as it’s been revealed that the disgraced actor’s own publicist couldn’t “stand” him and found him to be “unlikable,” even as she still allegedly agreed to help him wage a “smear campaign” against his co-star Blake Lively. The Daily Beast reported Wednesday that publicist Jennifer Abel’s apparent animosity towards Baldoni was revealed in text messages she exchanged with colleagues as she prepared to help him boost his public image and his work on the film, “It Ends With Us,” according to a new lawsuit filed against Baldoni and the publicist. Baldoni directed the dramatic film about domestic violence, based on Colleen Hoover’s best-selling novel, and starred as an attractive doctor who becomes abusive to his wife, played by Blake Lively. “I can’t stand (Baldoni),” Abel allegedly wrote in a Jan. 14, 2024, text message, the Daily Beast reported. “He’s so pompous.” In another message sent on the same day, Abel also wrote: “He needs to be humbled. When this movie flops, he’s going to try to blame every person around him for it.” “He may fire us because even if we put together an amazing campaign, it’s not going to change the fact that he’s so unlikable and unrealistic as a leading man,” Abel allegedly wrote in yet another text message, according to the Daily Beast. Abel is being sued by her former boss, Hollywood power publicist Stephanie Jones, for breach of contract and defamation, according to the Daily Beast and other outlets . The CEO alleged in the lawsuit filed Tuesday that Baldoni originally hired her PR company, Joneswork, to represent him, with Abel assigned to be the company’s point person for Baldoni and his studio, Wayfarer. Jones said that Baldoni signed a one-year contract with Joneswork for $25,000 a month, The Hollywood Reporter said . But in August, just as “It Ends With Us” was released theatrically, Baldoni dropped Jones’ firm and followed Abel to her newly launched PR firm. Jones alleges that she fired Abel after learning that Abel had been stealing documents from her firm as she prepared to start her own business, the New York Times also reported . When Abel left the company, she handed over her phone, which allowed Jones and her legal team to uncover a trove of messages that revealed that Abel had been working with Melissa Nathan, a crisis communications manager, on a retaliation campaign against Lively to boost Baldoni’s image, according to the Times and the Daily Beast. Jones’ lawsuit alleges that Abel and Nathan “secretly coordinated with Baldoni and Wayfarer to implement an aggressive media smear campaign” against Lively behind Jones’ back. Jones’ lawsuit was filed three days after Lively filed her own blockbuster complaint against Baldoni, alleging sexual harassment on the set of the film. In her complaint, filed with the California Civil Rights Department, Lively also alleged that Baldoni, Wayfarer and their public relationships representatives — Abel and Nathan — engaged in a “social manipulation” campaign to “destroy” her reputation, as The Hollywood Reporter explained. With the release of “It Ends With Us,” Baldoni allegedly feared that Lively’s allegations about his on-set behavior would be revealed, according to the New York Times. In response, Abel and Nathan began “to formulate a no-holds-barred strategy to discredit and suppress any potential revelations about Baldoni’s on-set behavior” to boost the actor’s profile. But even as Abel and Nathan sought to glorify Baldoni, Abel privately showed her disdain for him, according to the Daily Beast. Jones alleges that Abel and Nathan were motivated to carry out the alleged smear campaign by “avarice” and not because of “any sincere appreciation for Baldoni.” In the text exchange in which Abel called Baldoni “pompous,” she also complained that the actor wanted to go off on a “men’s retreat” over the summer, just as the film was being released. Over the past few years, Baldoni has built a personal brand around positioning himself as a #MeToo ally, who writes and speaks about the harm caused by toxic masculinity and men’s failure to embrace their vulnerability. In another series of text messages exchanged between Abel and an anonymous person on Jan. 13, 2024, the publicist described a kissing scene between Baldwin and Lively in the film as “so cringey,” the Daily Beast reported. When the recipient replied by saying, “Blake was probably grossed out too,” Abel allegedly responded: “Yeah and filed a cease and desist.” Abel appears to be referring to the sexual harassment allegations Lively raised against Baldoni. In her complaint, Lively said she detailed her concerns about Baldoni during an “all-hands” meeting with him and producers in early January 2024. With her husband, Ryan Reynolds, also present, Lively alleged that Baldoni improvised unwanted kissing and intimate touching while filming scenes. She also claimed that he discussed his own sex life and porn addiction and that both he and Heath repeatedly entered her makeup trailer uninvited while she was undressed, including when she was breastfeeding. The Daily Beast said that Abel’s lawyer, Bryan Freedman, did not immediately respond to a request for comment on Jones’ lawsuit. Earlier in the week, Freedman categorically denied the allegations in Lively’s suit, writing in a statement that the suit is “completely false, outrageous, and intentionally salacious.” He also described it as “yet another desperate attempt to ‘fix’ (Lively’s) negative reputation which was garnered from her own remarks and actions during the campaign for the film.” Since news of Lively’s allegations against Baldoni broke over the weekend, the “Jane the Virgin” alum has faced cascading consequences, according to the New York Times. The powerhouse talent agency, William Morris Endeavor, dropped him as a client, while author Hoover and “It Ends With Us” cast members Jenny Slate and Brandon Sklenar voiced public support for Lively. Earlier this week, Liz Plank, who has co-hosted the “Man Enough” podcast with Baldoni and Heath, announced she would no longer be appearing on the show. Moreover, Vital Voices, a nonprofit dedicated to empowering women, rescinded an “ally” award it had presented to Baldoni earlier this month for “advocating on behalf of women and girls.”By DAVID A. LIEB Artificial intelligence. Abortion. Guns. Marijuana. Minimum wages. Name a hot topic, and chances are good there’s a new law about it taking effect in 2025 in one state or another. Many of the laws launching in January are a result of legislation passed this year. Others stem from ballot measures approved by voters. Some face legal challenges. Here’s a look at some of the most notable state laws taking effect: California, home to Hollywood and some of the largest technology companies, is seeking to rein in the artificial intelligence industry and put some parameters around social media stars. New laws seek to prevent the use of digital replicas of Hollywood actors and performers without permission and allow the estates of dead performers to sue over unauthorized AI use. Parents who profit from social media posts featuring their children will be required to set aside some earnings for their young influencers. A new law also allows children to sue their parents for failing to do so. New social media restrictions in several states face court challenges. Related Articles National Politics | Trump has pressed for voting changes. GOP majorities in Congress will try to make that happen National Politics | Exhausted by political news? TV ratings and new poll say you’re not alone National Politics | Trump vows to pursue executions after Biden commutes most of federal death row National Politics | Elon Musk’s preschool is the next step in his anti-woke education dreams National Politics | Trump’s picks for top health jobs not just team of rivals but ‘team of opponents’ A Florida law bans children under 14 from having social media accounts and requires parental consent for ages 14 and 15. But enforcement is being delayed because of a lawsuit filed by two associations for online companies, with a hearing scheduled for late February. A new Tennessee law also requires parental consent for minors to open accounts on social media. NetChoice, an industry group for online businesses, is challenging the law. Another new state law requires porn websites to verify that visitors are at least 18 years old. But the Free Speech Coalition, a trade association for the adult entertainment industry, has filed a challenge. Several new California measures aimed at combating political deepfakes are also being challenged, including one requiring large social media platforms to remove deceptive content related to elections and another allowing any individual to sue for damages over the use of AI to create fabricated images or videos in political ads . In a first nationally, California will start enforcing a law prohibiting school districts from adopting policies that require staff to notify parents if their children change their gender identification . The law was a priority for Democratic lawmakers who wanted to halt such policies passed by several districts. Many states have passed laws limiting or protecting abortion rights since the U.S. Supreme Court overturned a nationwide right to the procedure in 2022. One of the latest is the Democratic-led state of Delaware. A law there will require the state employee health plan and Medicaid plans for lower-income residents to cover abortions with no deductible , copayments or other cost-sharing requirements. A new Minnesota law prohibits guns with “binary triggers” that allow for more rapid fire, causing a weapon to fire one round when the trigger is pulled and another when it is released. In Delaware, a law adds colleges and universities to a list of school zones where guns are prohibited, with exceptions for those working in their official capacity such as law officers and commissioned security guards. Kentucky is becoming the latest state to let people use marijuana for medical purposes . To apply for a state medical cannabis card, people must get written certification from a medical provider of a qualifying condition, such as cancer, multiple sclerosis, chronic pain, epilepsy, chronic nausea or post-traumatic stress disorder. Nearly four-fifths of U.S. states have now legalized medical marijuana. Minimum wage workers in more than 20 states are due to receive raises in January. The highest minimum wages will be in Washington, California and Connecticut, all of which will top $16 an hour after modest increases. The largest increases are scheduled in Delaware, where the minimum wage will rise by $1.75 to $15 an hour, and in Nebraska, where a ballot measure approved by voters in 2022 will add $1.50 to the current minimum of $12 an hour. Twenty other states still follow the federal minimum wage of $7.25 an hour. In Oregon, using drugs on public transit will be considered a misdemeanor crime of interfering with public transportation. While the measure worked its way through the legislature, multiple transportation officials said drug use on buses and trains, and at transit stops and stations, was making passengers and drivers feel less safe. In Missouri, law enforcement officers have spent the past 16 months issuing warnings to motorists that handheld cellphone use is illegal. Starting with the new year, penalties will kick in: a $150 fine for the first violation, progressing to $500 for third and subsequent offenses and up to 15 years imprisonment if a driver using a cellphone cause an injury or death. But police must notice a primary violation, such as speeding or weaving across lanes, to cite motorists for violating the cellphone law. Montana is the only state that hasn’t banned texting while driving , according to the National Conference of State Legislatures. Tenants in Arizona will no longer have to pay tax on their monthly rent , thanks to the repeal of a law that had allowed cities and towns to impose such taxes. While a victory for renters, the new law is a financial loss for governments. An analysis by Arizona’s nonpartisan Joint Legislative Budget Committee estimated that $230 million would be lost in municipal tax revenue during the first full fiscal year of implementation. Meanwhile Alabama will offer tax credits to businesses that help employees with child care costs. Kansas is eliminating its 2% sales tax on groceries. It also is cutting individual income taxes by dropping the top tax rate, increasing a credit for child care expenses and exempting all Social Security income from taxes, among other things. Taxpayers are expected to save about $320 million a year going forward. An Oklahoma law expands voting privileges to people who have been convicted of felonies but had their sentences discharged or commuted, including commutations for crimes that have been reclassified from felonies to misdemeanors. Former state Sen. George Young, an Oklahoma City Democrat, carried the bill in the Senate. “I think it’s very important that people who have gone through trials and tribulations in their life, that we have a system that brings them back and allows them to participate as contributing citizens,” Young said. Associated Press writers Trân Nguyễn in Sacramento, California; Kate Payne in Tallahassee, Florida; Jonathan Mattise in Nashville, Tennessee; Randall Chase in Dover, Delaware; Steve Karnowski in Minneapolis; Bruce Schreiner in Frankfort, Kentucky; Claire Rush in Portland, Oregon; Summer Ballentine in Jefferson City, Missouri; Gabriel Sandoval in Phoenix; Kim Chandler in Montgomery, Alabama; John Hanna in Topeka, Kansas; and Sean Murphy in Oklahoma City contributed.BillionToOne logo (PRNewsfoto/BillionToOne) MENLO PARK, Calif. , Dec. 23, 2024 /PRNewswire/ -- BillionToOne, a next-generation molecular diagnostics company with a mission to create powerful and accurate tests that are accessible to all, today announced that they will be presenting at the 43rd Annual J.P. Morgan Healthcare Conference in San Francisco, CA , on January 14, 2025 . BillionToOne marks a transformative year of achievements as it looks toward 2025. The company closed an oversubscribed, upsized Series D funding round led by Premji Invest in June, and was recently recognized as the Biotech Breakthrough Awards' Diagnostics Company of the Year. More than 500,000 patients have received BillionToOne tests to date, and the company has grown from $0M to $150M+ in annual recurring revenue over the past five years. This will be BillionToOne's second year in attendance at the J.P. Morgan Healthcare Conference, and the company will present on the topic of "Redefining Molecular Diagnostics with Single-Molecule Precision." Presentation details are as follows: Location: Mission Bay (32nd Floor) at The Westin Date: Tuesday, January 14, 2025 Time: 2:30-2:55 pm PT A webcast and presentation materials will be available on BillionToOne's website: https://billiontoone.com/event/jpm-2025-43rd-annual-healthcare-conference/ About BillionToOne Headquartered in Menlo Park, California , BillionToOne is a precision diagnostics company on a mission to make molecular diagnostics more accurate, efficient, and accessible for everyone. The company's patented Quantitative Counting TechnologyTM (QCTTM) molecular counting platform is the only multiplex technology that can accurately count DNA molecules at the single-molecule level. For more information, please visit www.billiontoone.com . View original content to download multimedia: https://www.prnewswire.com/news-releases/billiontoone-to-present-at-the-43rd-annual-jp-morgan-healthcare-conference-302338634.html SOURCE BillionToOneSAN DIEGO, Dec. 24, 2024 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) -- Robbins LLP reminds investors that a class action was filed on behalf of persons and entities that purchased or otherwise acquired ASP Isotopes Inc. (NASDAQ: ASPI) securities between October 30, 2024 and November 26, 2024. ASP Isotopes is a development stage advanced materials company focused on the production, enrichment, and sale of isotopes. For more information, submit a form , email attorney Aaron Dumas, Jr., or give us a call at (800) 350-6003. The Allegations: Robbins LLP is Investigating Allegations that ASP Isotopes Inc. (ASPI) Misled Investors Regarding its Uranium Enrichment Technology and Facility According to the complaint, during the class period, defendants failed to disclose that the Company: (1) overstated the potential effectiveness of its enrichment technology; (2) overstated the development potential of its high assay low-enriched uranium facility; and (3) overstated the Company’s nuclear fuels operating segment results. Plaintiff alleges that on November 26, 2024, market research firm Fuzzy Panda Research published a report that alleged the Company is “using old, disregarded laser enrichment technology to masquerade as a new, cutting-edge Uranium enrichment.” The report revealed a series of experts interviewed stated the Company’s reported cost estimates and timeline for building its HALEU uranium facilities was misleading to the point of being “delusional.” The report further alleged the Company had significantly overstated the significance of its agreement with TerraPower, which was only a “non-binding” memorandum of understanding entered into to “put pressure on [TerraPower’s] real suppliers.” The report quoted a former TerraPower executives as stating that ASP Isotopes was “missing the manufacturing; They are missing the processes as well; They still have to develop the HALEU...the most important part.” On this news, the Company’s stock price fell $1.80 or 23.53%, to close at $5.85 per share on November 26, 2024, and continued to fall on the subsequent trading date, falling $0.83 or 14.19%, to close at $5.02 per share on November 27, 2024. What Now: You may be eligible to participate in the class action against ASP Isotopes Inc. Shareholders who want to serve as lead plaintiff for the class must submit their application to the court by February 3, 2025. A lead plaintiff is a representative party who acts on behalf of other class members in directing the litigation. You do not have to participate in the case to be eligible for a recovery. If you choose to take no action, you can remain an absent class member. For more information, click here . All representation is on a contingency fee basis. Shareholders pay no fees or expenses. About Robbins LLP: Some law firms issuing releases about this matter do not actually litigate securities class actions; Robbins LLP does. A recognized leader in shareholder rights litigation, the attorneys and staff of Robbins LLP have been dedicated to helping shareholders recover losses, improve corporate governance structures, and hold company executives accountable for their wrongdoing since 2002. Since our inception, we have obtained over $1 billion for shareholders. To be notified if a class action against ASP Isotopes Inc. settles or to receive free alerts when corporate executives engage in wrongdoing, sign up for Stock Watch today. Attorney Advertising. Past results do not guarantee a similar outcome. A photo accompanying this announcement is available at https://www.globenewswire.com/NewsRoom/AttachmentNg/af960bd5-1ae2-4ed3-afe3-591b09ab920b
By DIDI TANG The Associated Press — The economic and technological rivalry between the United States and China has come to the drone market , where Chinese-made flying devices are a dominant player. Lawmakers in Washington are seeking to ban new sales of drones from two dominant Chinese manufacturers, arguing they could be used to spy on Americans and that the low-cost models are hurting the U.S. drone industry. A defense bill that passed Congress last week would bar new Chinese drones from DJI Technology and Autel Robotics should a review find them to pose an “unacceptable” risk to U.S. national security. But American users, from police officers to farmers, mappers and filmmakers, have come to rely on Chinese-made drones, especially those by DJI. Here are things to know about the debate. Rep. Elise Stefanik, R-N.Y., who is President-elect Donald Trump’s pick to be U.N. ambassador, has led House efforts to ban new Chinese drones, saying Americans have become too dependent on them. “It is strategically irresponsible to allow Communist China to be our drone factory,” she argued. It was the role of drones in everyday life that drove Sen. Rick Scott, R-Fla., to get Congress to restrict the purchase of Chinese drones by federal agencies. Those restrictions were included in a bill that Democratic President Joe Biden signed last year. Scott has compared Chinese drones to spy balloons that could “gather data or carry harmful payloads” across America, posing risks to military bases, critical infrastructure and natural resources. DJI, named in the bill, is the best-known Chinese drone brand. The company has the lion’s share of the global drone market and is a dominant player in the U.S. market. Its drones have been used by first responders to locate disaster victims, mappers to survey roads and utility lines, mosquito control officers to reach swarms of larvae, and filmmakers to capture aerial footage. Founded in 2006 and based in the southern Chinese city of Shenzhen, DJI makes devices that are known for their affordability and high performance. They are even used on the battlefield in Ukraine by both sides, even though DJI does not make military drones. As U.S.-China relations soured, DJI drones have come under scrutiny. The U.S. government has put the company on several blacklists citing human rights concerns as well as alleged links to the Chinese military. DJI has denied any wrongdoing, and is suing the Pentagon over the designation that it is a Chinese military company. U.S. customs officials have also blocked some DJI shipments over concerns that the products might have been made with forced labor. DJI has called it “a customs-related misunderstanding.” DJI has also expressed concern about the review of Chinese drones included in the defense bill., saying it doesn’t allow the company to defend itself. It called for “a fair right of reply to any findings.” At the Interior Department, the ban on foreign-made drones has resulted in a “loss of opportunities to collect data on landscape, natural and cultural resources, wildlife and infrastructure,” according to a September report by the Government Accountability Office. Michael Robbins, president and chief executive officer of AUVSI, an advocacy group for unmanned vehicles such as drones, argues against an immediate ban. Instead, the group has urged the government to support the domestic drone-making industry through investment so it can catch up with its Chinese competitors in both capability and cost. Related Articles Business | Drones, planes or UFOs? Americans abuzz over mysterious New Jersey sightings Business | Lancaster man used drone to deliver fentanyl, other drugs — one user died, prosecutors sayMINNEAPOLIS (AP) — A Connecticut couple has been charged in Minnesota with being part of a shoplifting ring suspected of stealing around $1 million in goods across the country from the upscale athletic wear retailer Lululemon. Jadion Anthony Richards, 44, and Akwele Nickeisha Lawes-Richards, 45, both of Danbury, Connecticut, were charged this month with one felony count of organized retail theft. Both went free last week after posting bail bonds of $100,000 for him and $30,000 for her, court records show. They're due back in Ramsey County District Court in St. Paul on Dec. 16. According to the criminal complaints, a Lululemon investigator had been tracking the pair even before police first confronted them on Nov. 14 at a store in suburban Roseville. The investigator told police the couple were responsible for hundreds of thousands of dollars in losses across the country, the complaints said. They would steal items and make fraudulent returns, it said. Police found suitcases containing more than $50,000 worth of Lululemon clothing when they searched the couple's hotel room in Bloomington, the complaint said. According to the investigator, they were also suspected in thefts from Lululemon stores in Colorado, Utah, New York and Connecticut, the complaint said. Within Minnesota, they were also accused of thefts at stores in Minneapolis and the suburbs of Woodbury, Edina and Minnetonka. The investigator said the two were part of a group that would usually travel to a city and hit Lululemon stores there for two days, return to the East Coast to exchange the items without receipts for new items, take back the new items with the return receipts for credit card refunds, then head back out to commit more thefts, the complaint said. In at least some of the thefts, it said, Richards would enter the store first and buy one or two cheap items. He'd then return to the sales floor where, with help from Lawes-Richards, they would remove a security sensor from another item and put it on one of the items he had just purchased. Lawes-Richards and another woman would then conceal leggings under their clothing. They would then leave together. When the security sensors at the door went off, he would offer staff the bag with the items he had bought, while the women would keep walking out, fooling the staff into thinking it was his sensor that had set off the alarm, the complaint said. Richards' attorney declined comment. Lawes-Richards' public defender did not immediately return a call seeking comment Monday. “This outcome continues to underscore our ongoing collaboration with law enforcement and our investments in advanced technology, team training and investigative capabilities to combat retail crime and hold offenders accountable,” Tristen Shields, Lululemon's vice president of asset protection, said in a statement. "We remain dedicated to continuing these efforts to address and prevent this industrywide issue.” The two are being prosecuted under a state law enacted last year that seeks to crack down on organized retail theft. One of its chief authors, Sen. Ron Latz, of St. Louis Park, said 34 states already had organized retail crime laws on their books. “I am glad to see it is working as intended to bring down criminal operations," Latz said in a statement. "This type of theft harms retailers in myriad ways, including lost economic activity, job loss, and threats to worker safety when crime goes unaddressed. It also harms consumers through rising costs and compromised products being resold online.” Two Minnesota women were also charged under the new law in August. They were accused of targeting a Lululemon store in Minneapolis.HARRY Derbudge might be entering 2025 as a single man, after his latest romance may already have ended. The Only Way Is Essex star Harry Derbidge recently announced he was loved up, after suffering a rollercoaster of heartbreak earlier this year. Loved up with tattooed Aussie hairdresser Jam Gaud, Harry was said to be "really happy" with the new relationship but he's now dropped a hint he's single meaning it might not have been perfect. The couple had shared selfies on social media, making their relationship Instagram official but Harry has now appeared to have deleted all trace of Jam across his personal social media accounts. Adding more fuel to the fire that he could now be single, Harry also posted a cryptic Instagram clue. Answering a fan's Q&A where he was asked about his happiest moment in 2024, Harry shared a snap of himself alongside some of his closest friends and co-stars. More on Harry Derbidge He wrote across the picture: "Is having good people around me, friends and family that will always be there for you. "A man may not show me love but I promise you I feel loved by my friends and family and no one will take that away." Earlier in December, it was revealed that Harry and Jam were happily coupled up and the Aussie had even met Harry's family. A source told us: "Harry and Jam have been dating for a few months, he's really happy and he's got his family approval, including his cousin Amy Childs . Most read in Celebrity "His Towie co-stars are chuffed that he's found love again." They added: "Harry is looking forward to the future after the whole Towie saga and split from Joe and wants to put that behind him. "He has healed now and is looking forward to what the future holds." Harry suffered heartbreak and betrayal earlier this year when his ex Joe Blackman ended their engagement, and then began a romance with TOWIE co-star Junaid Ahmed. The drama has recently played out on the most recent series of the ITVBe show. At the end of the series Junaid was seen in tears as he called best mate Dani Imbert to tell her it was over. Despite that, the pair are still very much together and were spotted together on a boozy night out in November. Harry Derbidge's love life has been a whirlwind 2021 - Harry dated and was engaged to Dean Rowland, before the relationship ended in October 2021 2022 - In February 2022, just before Valentine's Day, Harry went Instagram official with a new man named Jackson Lonergan. They dated for a while and Jackson even appeared on TOWIE before the romance fizzled out 2023 - Harry and Joe Blackman begin dating, with the relationship playing out on screen on TOWIE. However it doesn't all go smoothly for the pair 2024 - Harry and Joe struggled and found they were having issues during their time on a cast trip to Cyprus, later splitting when they returned to Essex. Shortly after Harry is left feeling betrayed as his best friend Junaid Ahmed begins dating Joe 2024 - Harry is linked to Aussie hairdresser Jam Gaud, with the pair sharing pictures on social media together and said to be enjoying a new romance
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