asian cockfighting sign in Emboldened by the view from the top of the NFC North, the Detroit Lions are out to eliminate nightmare holiday gatherings when the Chicago Bears come to town Thursday for a lunchtime division duel. The Lions (10-1) are streaking one direction, the Bears (4-7) the other in the first matchup of the season between teams on opposite ends of the division. Riding a nine-game winning streak, their longest since a 10-game streak during their first season in Detroit in 1934, the Lions are burdened by losses in their traditional Thanksgiving Day game the past seven seasons. Three of the defeats are courtesy of Chicago. The Bears and Lions get together for the 20th time on Thanksgiving -- the Bears have 11 wins -- this week in the first of two meetings between the teams in a 25-day span. Detroit goes to Soldier Field on Dec. 22. "I think there's two things," Campbell said of the Thanksgiving losing streak. "Number one -- Get a W. And it's a division win that's why this huge. Number two is because the players are going to get a couple of days off. So, they have family, friends in, it'd be nice to feel good about it when you're with everybody because it's just not real fun. It's not real fun to be around." Detroit (10-1) owns the best record in the NFC but the Lions aren't even assured of a division title. Minnesota sits one game behind them and Green Bay is two games back. The Bears (4-7) sit in last place and would likely need to run the table to have any chance of making the playoffs. The Lions have been dominant in all phases and haven't allowed a touchdown in the past 10 consecutive quarters. Detroit's offense ranks first in points per game (32.7) and second in total yardage (394.3) The Lions defense has not given up a touchdown in the last 10 quarters. Rookie placekicker Jake Bates has made all 16 of his field goal attempts, including four from 50-plus yards over the past three games. Chicago shows up in a foul mood. The Bears are saddled with a five-game losing streak and Chicago's defense has been destroyed for nearly 2,000 total yards in the last four games. The Bears failed to reach the 20-point mark four times in five outings since they last won a game. In their latest defeat, rookie quarterback Caleb Williams and the offense perked up but they lost to Minnesota in overtime, 30-27. "We have to play complementary football for us to be able to win these games," coach Matt Eberflus said. "The games we have won, we have done that. The games we have been close we've missed the mark a little bit. Over the course of the year, it's been one side or the other, this side or that side. In this league you have to be good on all sides to win. That's what we are searching for." Williams threw for 340 yards and two touchdowns without an interception. The wide receiver trio of DJ Moore, Keenan Allen and Romeo Odunze combined for 21 receptions and two touchdowns while tight end Cole Kmet caught seven passes. "What I've been impressed with is just how he has grown," Campbell said. "He has grown every game but these last two I really feel like he's taken off and what they're doing with him has been really good for him and he just looks very composed. He doesn't get frazzled, plays pretty fast, and he's an accurate passer, big arm, and he's got some guys that can get open for him." Detroit's banged-up secondary could be susceptible against the Bears' veteran receivers in their bid to pull off an upset on Thursday. The Lions put two defensive backs on injured reserve in the past week and top cornerback Carlton Davis isn't expected to play due to knee and thumb injuries. Detroit offensive tackle Taylor Decker (knee) and top returner Kalif Raymond (foot) are also expected to miss the game, though Campbell expressed optimism that running back David Montgomery (shoulder), formerly of the Bears, would play. Bears safety Elijah Hicks was listed as a DNP for Tuesday's walkthrough. --Field Level Media

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cockfighting background Hail Flutie: BC celebrates 40th anniversary of Miracle in MiamiExperts participating in a roundtable discussion on the second day of the Doha Forum emphasised the critical need for effective governance of technology, particularly AI, to safeguard global peace and security. They called for a comprehensive international approach that ensures technology is harnessed for the benefit of humanity while mitigating its potential negative impacts. The panel, which brought together policymakers, researchers, and experts in technology, governance, and security, underscored the urgency of establishing national, regional, and global frameworks to manage technological advancements. These mechanisms aim to prevent harmful applications such as cyber threats, privacy violations, and the militarization of technology, especially the development of weapons of mass destruction. Dr. Renata Duan, Special Adviser to the United Nations Secretary-General and Envoy on Technology, highlighted how rapid advancements in AI are reshaping the global security landscape. She stressed the importance of adopting a global governance model for technology. Dr. Duan also pointed to the United Nations' efforts in this area, including the launch of the Global Digital Compact, adopted by world leaders during their summit last September. She described the Compact as a robust global framework designed to foster international cooperation and promote a secure, open, and inclusive digital future rooted in universal human rights and the principles of sustainable development. Dr. Duan further emphasized the necessity of global AI governance to address the risks posed by the misuse of this powerful technology. At the same time, she highlighted the potential of AI to bridge the development divide between the Global North and South if used responsibly in various sectors. Brigadier General Ng Pak Choon, Head of Policy and Strategy Group and Head of Plans and Transformation Group at the Ministry of Defence in Singapore, delved into the implications of AI in the military domain. He stressed the need for vigilance and regulation to prevent its use in developing advanced weaponry. Adding to the discourse, Mona Khalil, President and CEO of MAK International Law Firm, called for robust international cooperation to tackle the complex challenges arising from technological advancements. She emphasized that collective action is essential to ensure technology is developed and deployed ethically. Libyan politician and academic Dr. Jumaa Qamati focused his remarks on narrowing the technological divide between developed and developing nations. He urged for greater efforts to address the unique challenges faced by countries in the Global South, particularly in leveraging technology for socio-economic development. The roundtable also explored the potential of AI technology and its applications across various sectors. Participants advocated for the establishment of global principles to prohibit the use of AI in creating lethal weapons. Discussions extended to the importance of fostering international collaboration in technology development, financing, and forming partnerships at national, regional, and international levels. Related Story Doha Metro records 200mn in ridership Technology at heart of Qatar’s industry; key growth to come from technology, AI and innovations: says al-Kuwari

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Oregon State is retaining one of its football standouts from this season as receiver Trent Walker announced he’ll return to Corvallis for his senior season. Walker wrote on social media Monday that “Let’s run it back Beaver Nation.” Multiple sources told The Oregonian/OregonLive that Walker had a productive discussion about name, image and likeness opportunities in recent days with Oregon State’s collective, Dam Nation. Javascript is required for you to be able to read premium content. Please enable it in your browser settings.

Article content Toronto FC has left designated player Lorenzo Insigne unprotected in the MLS expansion draft, knowing the Italian star’s big-ticket salary will likely deter expansion San Diego FC. Recommended Videos MLS teams are allowed to protect 12 players from their senior and supplemental rosters for Wednesday’s draft. San Diego can select up to five players from the eligible pool of players, but can only take one from any one club. Insigne is the biggest name on the list — and the biggest paycheque. The 33-year-old former Napoli captain, whose salary of US$15.4 million was second only to Inter Miami’s Lionel Messi (US$20.5 million) this season, had four goals and seven assists in 23 league appearances in an injury-interrupted season. Toronto has gone this route before, making Julian de Guzman, the first designated player in club history, available in both the 2010 (Vancouver Whitecaps and Portland Timbers) and 2011(Montreal) expansion drafts. De Guzman went unchosen — no doubt due to his salary of $1.72 million and $1.91 million, respectively. Toronto had to protect fellow Italian designated player Federico Bernardeschi, whose salary of US$6.295 million ranked fifth in the league, because he has a no-trade clause in his contract. MLS rules state that players with such clauses must be protected during expansion drafts. Toronto’s available list includes Aime Mabika, Shane O’Neill, Prince Owusu and Greg Ranjitsingh, whose options for 2025 were not picked up. Also available is midfielder Cassius Mailula, who is on loan with Moroccan club Wydad Athletic Club through July 2025 with an option to make the transfer permanent. Honduran international midfielder Deybi Flores and defenders Raoul Petretta and Sigurd Rosted, who all saw plenty of action this season, were also made available. Flores may be less attractive to another club because his 2025 salary budget charge comes with some payments resulting from his original transfer. So TFC elected to make him available while holding on to other players who come at a bargain rate. Petretta (US$$754,750 this season) and Rosted (US$755,000) come with big salaries. CF Montreal did not protect designated player Victor Wanyama, a 33-year-old midfielder whose contract expires at the end of the year. Wanyama saw action in just 12 league games this season (four starts) and last played May 12 in a Canadian Championship outing. Other Montreal players made available include Gabriele Corbo, Grayson Doody, Raheem Edwards, Ilias Iliadis, Lassi Lappalainen, Josef Martinez, Matteo Schiavoni and Robert Thorkelsson, all of whose 2025 contract options had previously been declined. Logan Ketterer is out of contract at the end of the year. Available Whitecaps include Damir Kreilach, Fafa Picault, Ryan Raposo and Alessandro Schöpf. The team had previously announced it did not plan to exercise the 2025 options for Schöpf and Picault with Raposo’s contract expiring at the end of the year. Kreilach, 35, made US$400,000 this season. San Diego’s roster currently numbers seven players. In June, the club announced Hirving (Chucky) Lozano as its first designated player, signing the Mexican international winger to a four-year contract with two option years in a Jan. 1, 2025, transfer from Dutch club PSV Eindhoven. Others on the San Diego roster are U.S. youth international goalkeeper Duran Ferree, Northern Ireland international defender Paddy McNair, American winger Alex Mighten, Danish holding midfielder Jeppe Tverskov, Colombian forward Tomas Angel and Danish international forward Marcus Ingvartsen. Angel is the son of former Colombia star Juan Pablo Angel, who played in MLS for the New York Red Bulls, Los Angeles Galaxy and Chivas USA as well as Aston Villa in England, Atletico Nacional in Colombia and River Plate in Argentina. San Diego’s coach is Mikey Varas, a former U.S. under-20 coach and senior assistant coach. Tyler Heaps doubles as sporting director and general manager. The 33-year-old Heaps, whose fiancee is U.S. captain Lindsey Horan, is Major League Soccer’s youngest sporting director. The club ownership includes San Diego Padres third baseman Manny Machado. San Diego will kick off its inaugural season at the MLS champion Los Angeles Galaxy Feb. 22-23 with its home opener March 1 at Snapdragon Stadium against St. Louis City FC. Clubs that lose a player in Wednesday’s expansion draft will receive US$50,000 in general allocation money. Generation Adidas players who occupy roster slots 21-24 and homegrown players 25 years old and under are automatically protected. Trades can alter the outcome of the draft. For example, Canadian defender Kamal Miller was taken by expansion Austin FC in 2020 and then traded to Montreal for up to US$275,00 in general allocation money and a first-round pick (11th overall) in the 2021 MLS SuperDraft. — Available Players on Canadian Teams in Expansion Draft CF Montreal: Matias Coccaro, Gabriele Corbo, Grayson Doody, Raheem Edwards, Ilias Iliadis, Logan Ketterer, Lassi Lappalainen, Josef Martinez, Matteo Schiavoni, Joaquin Sosa, Robert Thorkelsson, Victor Wanyama, Rida Zouhir. Toronto FC: Nathaniel Edwards, Deybi Flores, Lorenzo Insigne, Aime Mabika, Cassius Mailula, Shane O’Neill, Prince Owusu, Jordan Perruzza, Raoul Petretta, Greg Ranjitsingh, Sigurd Rosted, Charlie Sharp. Vancouver Whitecaps: Joe Bendik, Giuseppe Bovalina, Nicolas Fleuriau Chateau, Belal Halbouni, Levonte Johnson, Damir Kreilach, Luis Martins, J.C. Ngando, Fafa Picault, Ryan Raposo, Alessandro Schöpf, Yohei Takaoka, Bjørn Utvik.

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Melvin Elmer EichstadtCanada’s healthcare sector is looking at the cannabis industry. For years (mainly heading into federal legalization in Canada and a couple of years after legalization took hold), this sector rocketed higher as investors largely viewed these companies as the of the future. However, as many investors are well aware, this is a sector that’s since declined considerably, as hype and euphoria around the rise of cannabis as an investment class has waned. With that said, there are other companies operating in the healthcare technology space that are worth considering as well. This is a sector that continues to grow and become more diverse, so it’s a space I think is worth diving into. Here are two top Canadian healthcare stocks I think are worth taking a look at in 2025, given investors’ penchant for exposure to the healthcare sector right now. Canopy Growth One of the leading Canadian cannabis producers, ( ) is among the top options investors often consider when they look at this space. The company is a major producer of both recreational and medicinal marijuana and saw its valuation surge into 2021 amid a booming hype cycle in a number of high-growth industries. Unfortunately, as many investors can plainly see from the stock chart above, Canopy Growth is a shell of its former self. Having traded above $600 per share at its peak and now below $6 per share, this is a company that’s lost more than 99% of its value in roughly four years. Now, there have been volatile jumps and dips along the way in recent years, and some investors may be looking for any sort of exposure to Canadian cannabis companies like Canopy amid potential regulatory changes in the U.S. and other markets around the world. The thesis is that because Canada’s cannabis sector is so advanced, the company could garner interest as a potential global player as regulatory blockages are removed in key markets like the U.S. Personally, I’ve been bearish on Canopy in the past because this company’s previous valuation relative to the size of the Canadian market didn’t make sense. The market has caught on. However, there are some investors out there who may be looking at whether this sector and leaders like Canopy make sense at current prices. I’ll leave that up to the experts, but this is one part of the Canadian healthcare sector I think investors have to be very careful with right now. WELL Health Technologies In the healthcare technology space, ( ) is a top option for investors looking for outsized exposure to the Telehealth market. The company provides electronic medical record (EMR) solutions, a range of telehealth services, and a practice management software platform for providers. Thus, for those bullish on the pandemic-related trends of telemedicine continuing forward, this has become a hot stock for investors in recent years. The company’s stock chart above highlights some volatility similar to that of Canopy. However, this is a company that has roared back as investors price in a much more rosy growth environment moving forward. Indeed, the company’s recent Q3 results highlighted the strong organic growth the company has seen, with revenue increasing 23% year over year. Of course, there are risks to this space, but WELL Health has done a great job of building an international business with a competitive edge in certain markets within the fast-growing digital healthcare sector. With the U.S. and New Zealand markets key focal points for the company, it’s likely that investors will continue to see upside with this stock, so long as the company can push for greater profitability in addition to its revenue growth over time. In my view, WELL Health is the preferable stock of the two picks due primarily to the higher-growth nature of the digital healthcare space. This is one Canadian healthcare stock I think will continue to garner more attention over time and probably should.Workplace deaths in construction sector triple to 15 in 2024 H2

is coming to an end — have you taken advantage of this weekend's extended Boxing Day deals yet? If not, there's still time to shop, but the clock is ticking. If you're looking for a new bag, I have a recommendation for you: end tonight — and you can score some seriously cute and functional belt bags, totes, card cases and backpacks at the best prices of the year. Below, we've rounded up all the best on bags — all under $75. But hurry, like I said, you only have until 11:59 p.m. PST to snag these finds at these prices. Quick shop: Best last-minute Lululemon Boxing Week scores on bags & accessories Everywhere Belt Bag 1L Iridescent Team Canada Future Legacy Mini Belt Bag COC CPC Logo Everywhere Belt Bag 1L Crossbody Bag with Nano Pouch 2L Clippable Card Pouch Add a fun pop of colour to your wardrobe with this red bag. It's super cute, and purchases also support Canadian athletes — now that's a win-win! Keep your need-to-have essentials on hand with this eye-catching card pouch. It can clip onto your keychain, belt loop, or bag to keep your cards and cash handy. The Everywhere Belt Bag is a classic for a reason — it adds a stylish pop of colour to any outfit and lets you stay hands-free while you're out and about. Zip, clip, and go! This handy card pouch has interior slots to organize your cards and a zippered main compartment. If you need something a little roomier, consider this easy-to-carry cross-body bag as your go-to. According to reviewers, it's the "perfect mix of practicality and style." If you love it in pictures, Lululemon reviewers swear this one-litre Everywhere Belt Bag is "even prettier in person." The wristlet has two zippered pouches to keep your belongings safe — and they're both detachable, so you can customize the look or use one as a standalone wallet. It's perfect for those days when you just need your credit card, lip chap and mints and don't want the hassle of carrying around your full purse. If you love Lululemon's Wunder Puff collection, you might love its one-litre Wunder Puff Everywhere Belt Bag. According to one shopper, the water-resistant bag is a "must-have" for any collection. This soft, plushy bag has enough space for your phone, keys, cards and a few others bits. Shoppers say it "looks great but feels even better" and that it's "nifty and practical." This clear backpack is a handy choice for concerts and festivals. Reviewers say it's "cute, stylish and full of space." This Crossbody Bag with Nano Pouch 2L is a popular pick on Lululemon. It has a ton of spots for storage and has been dubbed the "perfect go-to bag" by shoppers. Shoppers can't get enough of Lululemon's three-litre Adjustable Mini Shoulder Bag. The cute and versatile bag comes with a fixed shoulder strap and an adjustable crossbody strap, so you have two ways to wear it. The Everywhere Backpack is a fan-favourite for a reason. It has an internal sleeve for a laptop, a side pocket for a water bottle and is made of water-repellent fabric to keep all your items safe. This unique tote can be worn crossbody style for versatility. It's crafted from water-repellent fabric and has interior and exterior pockets to store your valuables.

Novak Djokovic says his rivalry with Andy Murray has “one final chapter” after his long-time adversary joined him as his coach for the upcoming Australian Open. Murray – Britain’s greatest ever player – retired after this summer’s Olympics at the age of 37 after finally admitting defeat in his battle against his body. Many in the game expected the Scot would one day return to tennis and become a coach, particularly due to his love of the sport, hard work and his tactical acumen. He never liked retirement anyway. 🙌 pic.twitter.com/Ga4UlV2kQW — Novak Djokovic (@DjokerNole) November 23, 2024 But it came with some degree of shock on Saturday afternoon when a social media post from Djokovic, playing on Murray’s light-hearted tweet upon his departure, read: “He never liked retirement anyway”. The attached video announced Murray, who he lost to in two Slam finals but beat in four Australian showpieces, would coach him over the winter and through January’s Open in Melbourne. “We played each other since we were boys, 25 years of pushing each other to our limits. We had some of the most epic battles in in our sport. They called us gamechangers, risk-takers, history-makers,” Djokovic said. “I thought our story may be over. Turns out it has one final chapter. It’s time for one of my toughest opponents to step into my corner. Welcome aboard, coach Andy Murray.” Murray, who beat Djokovic to win the US Open in 2012 and Wimbledon in 2013, says he wants to help the 24-time grand slam champion achieve his goals. “I’m going to be joining Novak’s team in the off-season, helping him to prepare for the Australian Open, he said. “I’m really excited for it and looking forward to spending time on the same side of the net as Novak for a change, helping him to achieve his goals.” Djokovic, a week younger than his new coach, added: “I am excited to have one of my greatest rivals on the same side of the net, as my coach. “Looking forward to the start of the season and competing in Australia alongside Andy with whom I have shared many exceptional moments on the Australian soil.” Djokovic beat Murray in the 2011, 2013, 2015 and 2016 Australian Open finals as well as the French Open final in 2016. It was after he unseated Djokovic at the top of the rankings in 2016 that Murray suffered the hip injury which ultimately derailed his career. Since his retirement, Murray has been playing golf with the same dedication he pursued his tennis but will now return to his natural habitat. Djokovic, who split with coach Goran Ivanisevic earlier this year, hopes that adding Murray to his team will help him get back to the top of the game after he went through a calendar year without winning a grand slam for the first time since 2017. Jannik Sinner and Carlos Alcaraz have developed a stranglehold at the top of the men’s game and Djokovic, who has seen Murray, Roger Federer and Rafael Nadal all retire in recent years, is still hoping to move clear of the record 24 grand slams he shares with Margaret Court.cockfighting blades 。

I’m a Celebrity unrest as campmates desperately want public to stop voting for Dean McCullough to do trialsThe Arcata Tigers outlasted and outgunned the Petaluma Trojans on Friday night in the Redwood Bowl 69-34 to advance to the Division 6 North Coast Section championship game, where the No. 1 seed Tigers will host the No. 2 seed Miramonte Matodors next week. It was a story of two halves for the Tigers’ defense, after allowing 28 points in the first half, Arcata put the shackles on the Trojans’ offense allowing just six points after halftime. The first half was one of the most thrilling halves of football you’ll find, that is unless you’re a defensive coordinator, with nine touchdowns being scored. “I had been saying that we were going to have a shootout or a shutout,” Tigers’ head coach Matt Magers said. “If we could stop their Wing-T, it’s done. We had trouble with our ends and we were really asleep that first half until that punt return.” Arcata led 35-28 at the break thanks to a touchdown by Tigers’ senior Jackson Strand. After a rare defensive stop, Petaluma punted for the first time all night and Strand made them pay taking the kick all the way to the end zone with only 48 seconds left in the second quarter. The game opened with a successful onside kick by the Trojans, who then marched down the field and scored a touchdown. Arcata matched that with a touchdown of their own, as senior running back Alex Greenway found the end zone from two yards out. Petaluma didn’t blink, and led another touchdown drive to jump in front 14-7. Arcata then turned the ball over on downs, as junior quarterback Luke Lemke wasn’t on the same page as his receiver on the fourth down play, in what was the only miscue for the Tigers offense on Friday. The Tigers’ offense had to wait on the sideline long, with senior Cal Tucker intercepting a pass to gift the ball back to Lemke and the offense. The drive ended with another Greenway touchdown rush, with Arcata’s PAT being blocked to keep Petaluma in front 14-13 late in the first quarter. Petaluma again found the endzone, this time missing a PAT of their own to keep their lead at seven. Arcata kept pace with the Trojans, with Lemke finding the end zone from 26 yards out before finding Tucker on the 2-point try to take a 21-20 lead. Both teams almost exclusively went for onside kicks, giving the opposing offenses great field position each drive which helped lead to the offensive onslaught. After another failed Tigers’ onside try, Petaluma drove and scored a touchdown against the Arcata defense before converting a 2-point try of their own to take a 28-21 lead with 6:50 to play in the first half. On the next drive, senior Lennon Gieder’s took his turn in the end zone, with Lemke connecting with the receiver for a 20-yard touchdown. The 2-point try appeared to be a failure with Lemke surrounded in the backfield but the reigning Little 4 Offensive MVP channeled his inner David Blaine and escaped the pocket and scrambled his way into the endzone to put Arcata up 29-28. The Tigers’ defense then forced the punt which turned into the Strand return touchdown before half. “We made our adjustment at the end of the second quarter,” Majers said of his defense. “We pinched our defensive tackles and switched the responsibilites between the pitch man and the quarterback with our outside ‘backers and they had to go away from the veer option.” The momentum stayed with Arcata into the third quarter, with Petaluma fumbling their first possession away to the Tigers. Needless to say, Arcata took advantage of the mistake with Lemke finding senior Dayquan Dunn for a 12-yard touchdown to push their lead to 41-28. Petaluma’s offense did the majority of their damage on the ground, and once they got behind multiple scores they ran out of answers against the Tigers’ defense, as the Trojans were again forced to punt. Lemke then proved that his legs were key, with a 51-yard touchdown as Petaluma just could not bring down the junior quarterback. Lemke’s second rushing touchdown pushed the Arcata lead to 48-28 but it didn’t stay there for long. “He just makes things happen; he’s electric,” Majers said of his quarterback Lemke. Gieder intercepted Petaluma on their next possession, as the Arcata offense took over at their own 30-yard line. It didn’t matter where Arcata began their drives on Friday, it just allowed Lemke to have longer rushing touchdowns, following up his 51-yarder with a 70-yard touchdown on the first play of the drive. “We’re up three scores, it’s time to run the clock out,” Majers said. “He takes it on the 70-yard run, and I go ‘Oh, well there goes running the clock out.’ He’s like another running back for us, he can hit the home run at any point.” Arcata’s defense got another stop which set up the play of the night for the Tigers’ offense. Lemke went deep to a tightly covered receiver down the sideline, but Tucker rose for the ball and caught it around a Trojans’ defender back, squeezing the ball as he went to the ground for the most frustrating hug of the Petaluma defender’s life. “Cal had that crazy catch,” Majers said. “I’ve seen some crazy things but that was the first time I’ve seen that in-person. That was spectacular.” The drive would end with another Greenway touchdown. Both teams added touchdowns in garbage time but it was the performance of a lifetime for the Arcata offense. Arcata’s 69 points was a season-high, as was their 34 points allowed but regardless, their ticket to the NCS championship has been punched. The 11-1 Tigers will now host a 6-6 Miramonte team, who had a very different win Friday night, beating Benicia 7-0 at home setting up an interesting contrast of styles for the Division 6 section title. “We love playing together. That group of guys have been here for three years on varsity, they’re all good friends,” Magers said. “We’re out there to have fun, at the end of the day it’s just a game.” Now the Tigers will host Miramonte Saturday at McKinleyville High at 1 p.m. Dylan McNeill can be reached at 707-441-0526.

But the excitement doesn't stop there – TES also introduced two new family members who will be working closely with Ben and the rest of the team to achieve their shared goals. These new members, whose identities have yet to be revealed, are rumored to be seasoned professionals with a passion for gaming and a drive for success. Their addition to the TES family hints at the organization's ongoing expansion and its dedication to building a world-class esports powerhouse.Congress on Monday alleged that RSS chief Mohan Bhagwat 's statement about not raising 'mandir-masjid' disputes was aimed at misleading people and reflected RSS's "dangerous" working as its leaders do just "opposite of what they say" and support those raising such issues. If the RSS chief is honest, he should publicly declare that in future Sangh will never support such netas who endanger social harmony, Congress' Jairam Ramesh said. "But they will not say this because temple-mosque issue is happening at behest of RSS. In many cases, those who incite such divisive issues and cause riots have connections with RSS... RSS helps them from getting a lawyer to filing a case. Bhagwat thinks by saying such things, sins of RSS will be washed away and his image will improve," Ramesh said on X. Stay updated with the latest news on Times of India . Don't miss daily games like Crossword , Sudoku , and Mini Crossword . Spread love this holiday season with these Christmas wishes , messages , and quotes.

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Rounding out the top five teams in the OPTA ranking are Real Madrid and Manchester City, who are positioned in fourth and fifth place respectively. Real Madrid, the Spanish La Liga champions, have showcased their experience, quality, and winning mentality under the leadership of Zinedine Zidane. The likes of Karim Benzema, Sergio Ramos, and Casemiro continue to lead the charge for Los Blancos, maintaining their status as one of the elite teams in world football.Oscar, who currently plies his trade for Shanghai Port in the Chinese Super League, has expressed a strong desire to represent China at the international level. The 30-year-old playmaker has been in China since 2017, becoming a key player for both his club and the league as a whole.The new, pale two-party system

These holiday gifts change the game when building fires, printing photos, watching birds and morePresident-elect Donald Trump has selected Scott Bessent, a prominent money manager and advocate for deficit reduction and deregulation, to serve as the next Treasury Secretary. Bessent, a billionaire from South Carolina, has become a strong supporter of Trump and, if confirmed by the Senate, will manage the nation’s finances during a critical time. Who is Scott Bessent? Scott Bessent is a South Carolina billionaire and financial expert who has held key positions in the world of finance. He has previously worked for George Soros and contributed to several Democratic causes before aligning himself with President-elect Donald Trump. Bessent’s rise to prominence in the financial world is marked by his role in Soros’ London investment operations, where he made a significant impact during the famous 1992 bet against the British pound. Bessent’s Shift from Democrat to Trump Ally Before becoming a supporter of Trump, Bessent was known for his donations to Democratic causes in the early 2000s. He notably supported Al Gore’s presidential bid and worked with Soros, a major Democratic benefactor. Over time, however, Bessent shifted his political allegiance, becoming a staunch Trump supporter, particularly due to the president-elect’s economic policies and vision for fiscal reform. Deficit Reduction and Tax Cuts: Bessent’s Economic Focus Bessent is a strong advocate for reducing the federal deficit, an issue he believes will dominate America’s economic agenda. He has shown support for extending the tax cuts from the Tax Cuts and Jobs Act of 2017, which Trump implemented during his first year in office. While these tax cuts are estimated to cost between $6 trillion to $10 trillion over the next 10 years, Bessent advocates for spending cuts and adjustments to tax policies to offset the cost. He has already engaged in talks with Republican members of Congress, emphasizing the need for a negotiation to secure the financial stability of the country while extending the tax cuts. Tariffs: A Strategic Economic Tool Bessent has expressed a view that tariffs can serve as an effective economic tool for achieving Trump’s foreign policy objectives. Trump proposed steep tariffs during his campaign, especially targeting China, with rates reaching up to 60% for Chinese imports. While tariffs are often criticized by economists, Bessent defends them, arguing that they can act as sanctions without directly imposing punitive measures. He sees tariffs as a way to tackle issues such as currency manipulation, overproduction, and the need for foreign nations to adjust their economic policies in favor of the U.S. A Historic Appointment: Bessent as the First Openly Gay Treasury Secretary If confirmed, Bessent will become the first openly gay Treasury Secretary in U.S. history. This marks a significant moment for both the LGBTQ community and Trump’s administration. Although Richard Grenell, who is openly gay, served as the acting director of national intelligence in 2020, Bessent’s confirmation would make him the first openly LGBTQ Senate-confirmed cabinet member in a Republican administration. In a 2015 interview, Bessent reflected on his personal journey, acknowledging the drastic changes in societal views on LGBTQ rights, including his own legal marriage and family life. His confirmation would be a notable milestone for both his personal life and for LGBTQ representation in politics. What’s Next for Scott Bessent? As Scott Bessent awaits confirmation by the Senate, the financial world is keeping a close eye on his policies, especially his approach to deficit reduction and his support for extending Trump’s tax cuts. His views on tariffs as a tool for foreign policy and his historic potential to become the first openly gay Treasury Secretary have already sparked discussions about his future role in U.S. governance. ALSO READ: NATO Secretary General Meets Trump, Discusses Global Security Amid Ukraine CrisisBOSTON (AP) — JB Frankel hit three of four free throws in the final six seconds to allow Northeastern to hold off Colgate 78-75 on Sunday. Nicolas Louis-Jacques hit three free throws for the Raiders with :07 left to get within two, 75-73, but Frankel hit the second of two to make it a three-point game and, after Jalen Cox hit a pair at the line to pull Colgate within one, 76-75, Frankel hit both free throws to seal the win. Rashad King had 23 points and added eight rebounds for the Huskies (7-3). Harold Woods scored 13 points and added six rebounds. Masai Troutman shot 2 of 7 from the field and 7 of 9 from the free-throw line to finish with 12 points. Brady Cummins led the way for the Raiders (2-8) with 15 points. Colgate also got 14 points, six rebounds, five assists and four steals from Jalen Cox. Louis-Jacques finished with 14 points. King scored 10 points in the first half and Northeastern went into the break trailing 32-28. Northeastern pulled off the victory after a 15-2 second-half run erased a three-point deficit and gave them the lead at 62-52 with 5:58 remaining in the half. King scored 13 second-half points. Northeastern takes on Old Dominion on the road on Sunday, and Colgate visits Kentucky on Wednesday. The Associated Press created this story using technology provided by Data Skrive and data from Sportradar .cockfighting derby 。

This Proudly, Openly Racist Brazilian Woman Messed Around and Found Out...But Would She Get the Same Consequences in the U.S.?

Narita International Airport now has a zero tolerance policy for abusive passengers. Other businesses are also reporting a rise in threats to employees. Is famously polite Japan becoming less tolerant? Tired of the angry outbursts, shouted threats and even incidents of violence, the operator of Narita International Airport has become the first in Japan to implement a zero-tolerance policy against harassment of its staff. The airport is not alone in acting to protect its employees, with the Tokyo Metropolitan Government passing a local ordinance on October 4 designed to protect people working in the service sector from abuse, threats and unreasonable demands as such cases become more commonplace. The management of Narita Airport, which serves Tokyo, said it had been obliged to act due to an increase in confrontations between passengers and staff. The new policy defines harassment as any act that "harms the working environment of airport staff physically or psychologically" and includes insulting employees, yelling, verbal abuse, discrimination and defamation. Staff shocked at incidents A new ground handler at another major Japanese airport was taken aback by how often travellers lose their temper. "It happened to me again last week," said the woman, who declined to be identified as she did not have the permission of her employer to speak publicly. "A passenger's suitcase was over the weight limit and he became enraged that we would not allow him to check it in." "He was shouting, banging on the desk with his fist and kicking the case," she told DW. "This went on for about 15 minutes but we did not back down, so in the end he had to pay the excess baggage fee. It was not all that much and I do not understand why he became so aggressive." She noted that some ground staff give in to threats, which may encourage others to do the same. In June, the 1.8 million-strong UA Zensen Union published the results of a survey that indicated that 46.8% of workers in Japan's service industry had been the target of customers in the previous two years. Some had been so traumatized by the experience, the report said, that they had required counselling. "Japan has such high standards of polite service, but with that comes similarly expected norms for customers," said Roy Larke, senior lecturer in marketing at the University of Waikoto, New Zealand, and an expert on retailing and consumer behavior in Japan. "When these expectations break down, even if only in a few well reported cases, it will be quite shocking for many," he told DW. Cafe in Japan aims to include people with dementia To view this video please enable JavaScript, and consider upgrading to a web browser that supports HTML5 video Educating the customer "In the same way that e-commerce firms are now attempting to educate the customer to accept slower deliveries and how some supermarkets companies are introducing chairs for cashiers for the first time," said Larke, adding that there may be a need for "lower expectations from customers when shopping." "I would hypothesise that the combination of increased pressure is the main factor behind increased customer frustration," Larke said. Regardless of the cause, more companies are taking precautions. The nation's two largest air carriers, All Nippon Airways and Japan Airlines, in July unveiled new guidelines on passengers' behaviour, identifying abusive and aggressive language as unacceptable, along with threats, physical assaults of staff, unreasonable demands and sexual harassment. Technology developer Softbank Corp has developed a voice-altering phone technology that employs artificial intelligence and makes a furious caller sound calm to the company employee listing to a complaint. Supermarket chain Ito-Yokado Co has created a manual for dealing with difficult customers and introduced training on reporting violent behavior to the police and maneuvering threatening individuals into positions where they are recorded on CCTV. Manga, myths & homeopathy — Arts Unveiled To view this video please enable JavaScript, and consider upgrading to a web browser that supports HTML5 video Training of store staff Similarly, 24-hour convenience stores are training staff on how to respond to abusive customers and many outlets have introduced signs warning that misbehavior will not be tolerated and that the premises are monitored by security cameras. Morinosuke Kawaguchi, a technology analyst and consultant who was previously a lecturer at the Tokyo Institute of Technology, says Japanese society has become something of a minefield of potential harassment pitfalls as more people grasp what constitutes harassment and are willing to report incidents. "Japan is an extremely polite nation and society, but all the cases we hear about make it appear that we are becoming impolite," he told DW. "I think a big part of the problem is that everything is now being recorded on mobile phones so we are just seeing more cases." "This sort of behavior used to be the sort of thing young street thugs did, but virtually no one saw it happening," he added. "Now we have social media, it has become a big issue. I do not believe that Japan, as a society, really has become more impolite or aggressive." Edited by: Keith WalkerThe wine , finally, was on the move. For two weeks, a team of 14 professionals had been in the mountains, methodically transferring thousands of rare bottles from a cavernous cellar into a nondescript box truck that shuttled the cargo to a pair of tractor trailers several miles away, tucked in a private way station overseen by an armed protection detail. Even the security team didn’t know what they were guarding. All they saw were scores of black-wrapped pallets slowly filling the giant holds. When the last of the wine was finally secured and the drivers strapped in, the semis, each escorted by an armored truck, rumbled past the steel gates and then diverged, assigned to separate routes down the mountain, across more than a thousand miles and three state lines, headed for California. In Boston, Brahm Callahan received a GPS ping every 30 minutes with the trucks’ locations and the temperatures inside the cargo bays; they were holding steady at 55 degrees. The deal had been nearly two years in the making and killed and resurrected over half a dozen times during that span. Callahan, master sommelier, 35 years old, had seen some of the most incredible wine collections in the world, but never anything like the cellar he had just bought. He knew from the moment he stepped inside it that he would never encounter another collection so miraculous, so meticulously curated, so impeccably cataloged and stored, and so impossibly stocked with unheard-of rarities. Now he and his partners were about to take possession of the entire haul. The first step of the plan was nearly complete. The trucks would converge again at a bonded warehouse in Sonoma County, where Dan O’Brien, 40, was waiting to take possession of eight figures’ worth of wine while trying not to think about all the money they owed, or everything that needed to happen before they could pay it back. First, the wine had to show up as planned—the convoys were taking separate routes at the insistence of the insurance companies, to mitigate risks such as avalanches and hijackers—and then the designated portion, several thousand bottles of valuable rare wines, had to make its way by boat to Hong Kong in time to be received and cataloged for a Sotheby’s auction in February. The various lots needed to sell for enough to cover the money they owed to the hard-money lender who had financed the deal at terms that would make a loan shark shudder. From his condo in Boston, Scott Leverenz ran the numbers again, out of habit. He took into account the projected auction figures, that Mafia rate of monthly interest, the roughly $700,000 they had already accrued in legal fees, the potential appreciation of the remaining portfolio, and every other variable he could think of. As usual, Leverenz, 34, was gaming out the worst-case scenario, but the numbers looked good: Even if the total from the auction came in at the low end, and even assuming it took the full 90 days to collect all the money, the three of them would hit their target: They could use the sale of the bottom two-thirds of the cellar to clear the debt and keep the most valuable top third—millions of dollars of wine—for free. The wine arrived in Sonoma as scheduled, where it was stored for 72 hours before being taken to Oakland and put on a container ship headed to Hong Kong, due to dock just before Christmas. It was late November 2019 and the juice was running. The loan would reset every 30 days, the principal growing each month alongside the compounding interest in a convoluted death trap of penalties, fees, and clawbacks. Time was not on their side. Shortly after the wine arrived, the news began reporting an unknown respiratory illness killing people in China. The country would lock down a few weeks later. Callahan, Leverenz, and O’Brien had just borrowed $12.5 million to buy a store of wine that now might as well be on the moon. The Crew Callahan first outlined his plan to Leverenz one morning in 2016 in the Amtrak bar car heading back to Boston from Philadelphia. They were fending off hangovers after a Guns N’ Roses concert; neither had slept. But kicking ideas back and forth across a bartop was how they had always done their best thinking, going back to when they first met as Boston sommeliers in 2009. Callahan had made master sommelier by 30, pin number 222 of 228 in the world at the time. There is nothing achievable in the wine world above it. The final examination, administered by the Court of Master Sommeliers, is like trying to prove a physics thesis by doing backflips, meant to plumb the depth of one’s theoretical understanding, sensory abilities, and practical skills simultaneously. Callahan had lived like a monk while studying for it, forgoing shaving and taping laminated study guides throughout his apartment—on tables and mirrors, lining the cupboards, inside the shower—so there wasn’t a minute he couldn’t be learning. In the blind-tasting portion alone, candidates must correctly identify six different wines by grape variety, country of origin, district, appellation, and, finally, vintage. Not only had Callahan passed the test, he had eventually become a member of the Court. Leverenz had a head for numbers. He and Callahan had both passed through Grill 23 & Bar , a revered Boston steak house that operated as a sort of elite boot camp for those forging a career in wine. Unlike most restaurants with encyclopedic wine lists, Grill 23 actually moved the juice, and opportunities to taste rare and notable vintages were frequent. Leverenz went on to become a somm and wine director for some of Boston’s top restaurants before managing national sales for major importers; he also traded in rare and fine wines. Having experience in both buying and selling had stripped away the varnish of romance that dazzled so many people into ostensibly bad business decisions: Leverenz liked to say that the best way to end up with a million-dollar winery was to start with a $2 million winery. He loved the industry and wasn’t immune to the glamour, of course—he just preferred to understand it for what it was, and to make a profit off of it when he could. Like Callahan and Leverenz, O’Brien had cut his teeth at Grill 23 and had a natural allergy to all of the stupid money sloshing around the wine industry, though unlike the other two, he wasn’t much for sitting on appreciating assets for the sake of a tidy profit down the line—he’d rather drink a Dujac Grand Cru immediately after buying it, maybe with a burger. With his beard and glasses and easygoing grin, the onetime Boston somm now looked the part of an affable San Francisco garage winemaker, but there were few areas of the industry he hadn’t touched, from developing wine programs for luxury hotel groups to producing blends for private-label clients to revamping a historic Calistoga vineyard as COO. He had extensive experience buying, storing, and transporting wine—easier said than done given that alcohol is a highly regulated substance, which makes moving it across state lines a costly, time-consuming, and tediously complicated bureaucratic process. He had the bonded storage, insurance premiums, and drawers full of licenses and permits to attest to that. Callahan had worked with both separately, but despite all being Grill 23 alums, the trio had never worked together until now. They sealed their partnership over omelets and coffee at a grungy diner down the street from an impound lot. The Plan What Callahan pitched was this: Raise enough money to buy a white whale of a cellar, a highly secretive monster collection somewhere in the Rocky Mountains—one of those murmured opportunities that surface from time to time in the tight, clubby world of master somms and elite collectors. It supposedly contained vast quantities of vanishingly rare wine, the kinds of bottles that simply didn’t come to market anymore or were never supposed to have existed in the first place: unheard-of large-format Burgundies; decades of Hermitage; massive stores of cult Champagne. The collector had started acquiring in the ’80s, back when you could just show up in Vosne-Romanée, knock on the door of some family producer that had been making Burgundy in the region for hundreds of years, and walk off with however many cases you felt like shipping home. Provenance and documentation were said to be perfect. And yet the cellar had been quietly on the market for some time, with no takers. Why? First, the asking price, a vast sum even in the voracious world of high-stakes wine collecting, kept rising—first $8 million, then $10 million, now likely more—the longer the collection sat and the more the wines inside kept appreciating. More challengingly, it had to be all in one go, to one buyer: no cherry-picking, no allocation, a single check for the entire lot, non-negotiable. The seller didn’t need the money and seemed in no rush to part with the wine. Normally, anyone walking into a cellar with an eight-figure check is going to expect to set some of the terms of the deal, so the sheer ego slap delivered by the take-it-or-leave-it nature of the offer cleared a host of private buyers from the table. Resellers are more pragmatic, but it was still a huge amount of cash, and a significant chunk of the inventory wouldn’t reach peak profitability for years; gray-market prospectors rarely buy and hold, preferring to flip bottles for quick profit rather than leave capital tied up in a basement. Callahan figured he had a way to leverage the volume of the cellar. A collection of that size and caliber would otherwise take decades to procure, and this one was said to be composed of some of the best-performing wines on the market, heavily over-indexing for Burgundy, Northern Rhônes, and Champagne. If you could price the inventory correctly, acquire it at reasonable value, then engage an auction house to move the most immediately profitable tranches of wine in one push, you could repay the loan plus interest while holding on to the best long-term investments. Essentially, between loan, acquisition, and auction, you could triangulate an extremely small aperture through which it would be possible to come into a few million bucks’ worth of unbelievable rare wine, for free—but if you miss the window, don’t bother preparing for impact. Taking on the whole thing at once meant they could play the long game. The cellar had such vast stores of specific vintages that you could effectively corner the market, taking advantage of short-term price fluctuations by strategically liquidating bottles at their most lucrative while continuing to accrue yearly appreciation on the rest. The remaining top slice of inventory, the cream of a once-in-a-lifetime crop, could be used as the basis for a wine-backed investment fund, or a high-end wine retailer. Or, put the profits into a négociant winery, buying grapes or juice and bottling under their own brand, and for private labels. Or, depending on how the auction went, all three. But first they needed to get their hands on a whole lot of cash. The Money You can’t just walk into a bank and ask for, say, $10 million to buy a bunch of fine wine—or Picassos or vintage Ferraris or ancient Sumerian manuscripts—even if everyone knows they’re going to appreciate. It’s just not what banks are set up for, which mostly is to deal in simple, stable assets like homes and cars and small businesses. So Callahan went to Dave S. instead. Callahan first met Dave S. over a magic trick of sorts at Grill 23. A bearded, broad-shouldered hedge-fund type, he had ordered a beguiling 1998 Bordeaux, a great Right Bank vintage—enough to pique Callahan’s interest. Either this guy made a lucky guess, he thought, or he knew something about wine. Dave S. knew enough to see an opportunity to stump the somm. He pulled out his phone and flashed a picture of himself from a recent shooting weekend, barely hoisting a gargantuan Nebuchadnezzar of ’67 Château d’Yquem—had Callahan ever seen a bottle like that in person? Callahan said he had, and then did Dave S. one better: He told him where the picture had been taken. The hedge funder, who was a professional magician in his youth, felt the hairs go up on the back of his neck—now that was a magic trick. Callahan explained that he knew the total number of bottles of ’67 Yquem in the 15-liter format in existence, plus who owned them around the world—including a certain prominent billionaire with three in his New Jersey cellar, which is where Dave S. was standing in the picture. He and Callahan became fast friends after that. Yet despite his decades allocating capital and executing complex financial deals, Dave S. wasn’t the one to finance this play—but he knew who was. The guy who connects the pipes that make the money flow. The man they called the Plumber. When the federal government needs to underwrite some sprawling, unprecedented, staggeringly complex program—say, a nationwide rebate for used-vehicle trade-ins, with all the labyrinthine financing that entails—the secretary of the Treasury picks up the phone and calls the Plumber. A math whiz since his teens, he was legendary in New York banking for never assuming risk and always making money, a deal-structuring genius who could put 28 hooks into you without your ever realizing, until God forbid something bad happened and suddenly your pecuniary guts were sliding all over the floor. The Plumber had a sideline in exotic investment plays—heady, esoteric, out-of-the-box stuff. Like backing the acquisition of a multimillion-dollar wine cellar for an unprecedented flip. Dave S. didn’t mince words: The numbers would have to work, down to the penny. These people didn’t care about wine except insofar as it represented collateral for the deal—and as a regulated substance it made for complicated surety. The path of custody would need to be rigorously established and precisely controlled, and execution would have to be flawless or the various frictions would eat them alive: First, the buyer needed to assess and document over 12,000 bottles of wine, checking fill rates and bottle stamps and backtracking the ownership trail, then take and retain legal control of it through several stages of storage and transport across state lines and national borders—a notorious minefield of red tape—all while insurance, taxation, fees, governmental regulation, and the rest gnawed away at the bottom line from all angles. Every shipment, every transaction, every license, every insurance policy, every fee—thousands of variables—had to be accounted for, across all conceivable scenarios, until the sale was complete, the money collected and transacted, and everyone repaid. And the three of them were going to be put through their paces. The Plumber’s people needed to understand who they were giving their millions of dollars to. Did they have a grasp of the details? Could they problem-solve under pressure? Were their industry contacts as solid as they claimed? The Plumber only dealt with people vibrating at the highest frequency, Dave S. said, and his crew would mess with them—changing deadlines at the last minute or giving them 24 hours to turn around a half dozen pages of analysis for no reason—just to see how they reacted to stress. The deal would come down to numbers, sure, but it wasn’t the only consideration. The Plumber wanted to know: How badly did they want it? Which meant, even as Callahan and Leverenz were cautiously wooing the seller with polite correspondence and the occasional highly orchestrated visit, and O’Brien was laying the groundwork for the eventual possession and transport, they were simultaneously being put through rigorous crash courses in debt financing and tax law. The seller, meanwhile, was rarely available and seemed to have a knack for going dark the moment they felt any momentum begin to build. The deal was always under threat of collapsing from one end or the other—either because the seller had walked away or because the loan-to-value ratio had tipped a cent into the red and the money did. At one point, the deal hinged on whether Callahan could procure luxury portable toilets on short notice; at another, the cost of an overlooked California permit—the difference of maybe a few thousand dollars in a deal worth millions—was enough to get the Plumber’s people to start packing up, until O’Brien realized he had the necessary paperwork via another company he owned. This dragged on for months. Then a year. Then longer. The motivation to press on, reenergized every time Callahan and Leverenz were able to inspect the wine, was that the cellar was even more impressive than advertised, unlike anything either had seen in both quality and scale, in fundamentally pristine condition. The attrition rate of unsellable bottles due to oxidation, lack of proper documentation, breakage, or improper storage was basically nil; even the small percentage of bottles they couldn’t send to auction—say, due to a detached label—they knew to be genuine. And then, just like that, a switch flipped and it was go time. The seller agreed to the terms; in response, they wired $1 million into an escrow account as a sign of good faith. A short time later, a cashier’s check in the low eight figures was delivered by hand to the seller’s lawyer; there was the flurry of planes and trucks and boats; and the plan for a massive 90-day flip was in motion at last—until Covid reared its head and the entire world came screeching to a halt. The Auction The early days of pandemic lockdown for Callahan, Leverenz, and O’Brien were pretty much the same as for everyone else—awkwardly wiping down groceries, uncertain about whether you were supposed to buy masks or not buy masks because medical personnel needed them. Without its normal daily punctuations, time became a run-on—except for that charged moment every month when they recalculated what they owed to the Plumber. That always had a way of standing out. The monthly interest alone, which had started around $110,000, had jumped to $115,000, then to over $125,000, then to $130,000. The months dragged on. February came and went. Then March, then April, then May, then June, the debt ballooning. Dave S. kept the mood up: Keep finessing the numbers, keep working the plan, these are just obstacles, you’ll find your way around. The Sotheby’s people pushed the auction, then pushed it again, then said they weren’t quite sure when it would take place despite being very upbeat that it would, in fact, happen; they were storing a gargantuan haul of wine they weren’t selling and so were as desperate as anyone to see it all across the auction block. Finally, the dates were set—a two-day affair, July 5 and 6, 2020. There was only one problem: Online auctions were still a fairly new format, and a remote wine sale of this size was unprecedented. Hong Kong is 13 hours ahead of the east coast of the U.S. and 16 hours ahead of the west, which meant that it was July 4, America’s Independence Day, when the Summit: A Complete Cellar auction kicked off in Asia. O’Brien was at a backyard cookout in California wine country; Callahan and Leverenz were at a party at Dave S.’s house in Massachusetts. Everything they had done to this point, work now measured in years, hinged on these results. Had their proprietary valuation system—based on an intricate matrix of scarcity, reputation, current and future market interest, time to peak drinkability, and profit potential—priced the wine correctly? Difficult enough to gauge under normal circumstances, but this situation was sui generis. There was literally nothing to compare it to. As it turned out, it was a perfect storm. The stir-craziness of isolation, collector appetite bottled up to bursting, and a global customer base newly comfortable with spending serious cash over the internet meant that the entire wine world was watching—and desperate to bid. It was a frenzy from the opening hammer. The guys streamed the action on laptops, O’Brien holed up in a TV room as the party carried on outside, Leverenz and Callahan roaming the halls of Dave S.’s sprawling house and dipping into his pool in between calculating conversion rates. The numbers exploded from the jump and never relented, with world records shattering one after the other. In the six-liter format alone, a 1989 Ramonet Montrachet hammered for over $61,000, a 1999 La Tâche for over $90,000, and a 1990 Domaine de la Romanée-Conti Richebourg for over $154,000. The final sale clocked in over $15.6 million; they would clear $3.1 million in profit, minus some additional friction, while still holding what they considered to be the most valuable third of the original cellar, calculated to be worth between $3.5 million and $4 million. Of course, they couldn’t actually get their hands on the money yet, which would be collected in dribs and drabs by the auction house over the next 90 days and deposited into a Hong Kong bank, in Hong Kong dollars. That currency is pegged to the U.S. dollar and therefore reliably stable—unless the President of the United States starts antagonizing China by threatening to decouple the HKD, as then-President Trump did later that month. It was a new emergency: If Trump carried out his threat, the stroke of a pen would catastrophically evaporate their profits—meaning that, despite an auction bonanza far beyond their most optimistic projections, which set scores of world records, the three would still find themselves deeply in the red. The bulk of the wine was gone, they were out of money and had paid off virtually none of the debt—which was still accruing all sorts of replicating interest and spring-loaded fees. Even the inventory they had held back was out of reach: Until he got his money back, everything belonged to the Plumber. This was the point at which O’Brien tapped out. Whatever happened between now and the end, he said to Callahan and Leverenz, whether it all worked out or everything collapsed, he didn’t need to know. He would be in California. Wake him when it was all over. Coda On a warm Boston night this past May at Grill 23 & Bar, I sat with the three cofounders of Faucet Wine —CEO Brahm Callahan, CFO Scott Leverenz, and COO Dan O’Brien—as they recalled the party they threw when the dust finally settled. Callahan and Leverenz had gone back to the Plumber asking for a $1 million hedge against the currency decoupling, and he was only too happy to oblige: The move further protected his investment, and the interest charged on the extra million would net him even more profit. In the end, Trump moved on from poking China, all of the auction money was collected, a check was issued from the Hong Kong bank and converted to U.S. dollars. All outstanding bills were paid. The Plumber was made whole. For the first time, some four years after Callahan had initially launched his scheme on the train, they were money good. They even wound up making a tidy six-figure profit from the hedge thanks to all the volatility. The victory party took place in November 2020, still at the height of Covid, when congregating in person required nasal swabs and temperature checks and weeks of negotiation. A small group gathered at O’Brien’s house. The celebration was wine-country casual—tiki torches, a sprawling deck overlooking a creek, dogs clambering up and down stairs, a rap-heavy playlist bumping in the background—though few if any Sonoma Valley cookouts before or since have poured a magnum of 1990 Bâtard-Montrachet alongside a 1949 Musigny from Camille Giroud. Or a dream-haunting 1974 Ramonet Chassagne-Montrachet “Les Ruchottes.” And these were just some of many astonishing and wondrous vintages. They were the best of the authentic but unsellable stock, plus a small number of bottles they had held back for themselves, even if it sliced into the profit margin. The three had survived a long swim with some of the biggest sharks in the financial world, but they were ultimately all wine geeks at heart: If now wasn’t the time to finally taste your greatest-hits list of once-in-a-lifetime vintages, when would be? O’Brien in particular relished the chance to share these treasures with his friends and neighbors—farmers and blenders and small winemakers who otherwise might never get the chance to experience a 1971 Domaine de la Romanée-Conti Romanée-St.-Vivant or a 1991 Chave “Cuvée Cathelin.” As he watched the fall sun inch below the horizon, sitting with friends and contemplating some of the greatest wines ever made, all seemed right with the world. They were in the black. He could exhale at last. And now, finally, they could get to work. Securing the auction money wasn’t the end of things, after all, but the beginning. They still had a company to build. The profit from the sale eventually produced Faucet, a wine-focused venture-capital fund with a portfolio of proprietary businesses, from négociant winery Where With All to investments in rare bottles to the Sonoma Valley producer Gail Wines . There’s even a fine-wine purveyor, Berkeley and Stuart , named after the intersection where Grill 23 sits, and where each of the partners got his start in the industry. Where, in some sense, it all began. Callahan is now an investor in that restaurant and stores some of the group’s wine there. After dinner, he walked me through the cellar, showing off various bottles. One label stood out, faded yellow and black, with an image like an Art Deco clamshell opening over a twinkling cosmos. It read: “25th Anniversary, Windows on the World, 1976–2001,” part of a store Faucet had acquired of custom Veuve Clicquot produced for the famous restaurant that once straddled the 106th and 107th floors atop the North Tower of the World Trade Center, which collapsed into rubble along with everything else on September 11, 2001. Another marvel in a seemingly never-ending saga of them. As I walked down the steak-house steps into a humid late-spring evening, passing under the lamplit street signs, a snippet from the auction catalog popped into my head: “Put simply,” wrote Serena Sutcliffe, honorary chairman of Sotheby’s Wine, “it would be beyond comprehension if it did not exist in reality.” Exactly so.B.C.'s best high school ballers compete at Langley hoops tourney

Japan coach Eddie Jones said he was "abused" by a spectator during his fiery return to Twickenham on Monday (AEDT). Jones was the centre of attention during England's 59-14 win in London after the explosive claims made in Danny Care's biography. Jones coached England between 2015-22 before an ill-fated 2023 stint with Australia and then returning to Japan. Watch the Wallabies take on Ireland on December 1 (AEDT) on Stan Sport. Stream every match of the Autumn Nations Series ad free, live and exclusive Japan coach Eddie Jones in the stands. Getty "It wasn't bad until some clown abused me going down at halftime," Jones said. "But if there is only one clown in 81,634, it's not too bad. So it was good mate. I'm disappointed with the result but it is always good to come to the home of rugby. A fantastic atmosphere. He said something, obviously, but I'm not going to repeat it here because I'll get into trouble." England's Rugby Football Union later released a statement saying: "No coaches, players or match officials should be abused for doing their job." READ MORE: Wallabies Grand Slam dream goes up in smoke in Scotland READ MORE: Indian prodigy puts Aussies on notice with 'audacious' ton READ MORE: 'Drama' haunts Smith on final day as young gun wins title Japan coach Eddie Jones arrives. Getty In Care's book, the former England halfback claimed that "everyone was bloody terrified" of Jones and that the environment was "like living in a dictatorship, under a despot who disappeared people." Jones, who missed his pre-match press conference due to illness, was predictably asked about Care's comments. "I'll tell you mate, I've got a new book deal coming out," Jones said. Andrew Johns talks to Ben Youngs, Danny Care and Eddie Jones at Coogee Oval in 2016. Getty "I signed it today. It's called Caring about Care – there'll be all the details in there. I've got pre-order forms. I'm trying to get a deal with the Daily Mail, but I haven't got an agreement yet. So if you want to read about it, there you go. It'll be a good one. If you want to read about it, it'll be in my book. That's how you get headlines. I'll put a whole chapter about caring about Care, just for you." Jones then offered his congratulations to England coach Steve Borthwick who had been on a five game losing streak. "I'm glad he won't have you blokes (media) hounding him for at least seven days. I'm sure he'll enjoy his orange juice tonight." Eddie Jones stands with his coaching staff. Getty England were previously defeated by New Zealand, Australia and South Africa in November after back-to-back losses to the All Blacks in July. A sixth straight defeat would have been England's worst run since 2006. Captain Jamie George scored two of England's five tries in the first half and there were four more after the break with Luke Cowan-Dickie — the replacement hooker for George - also crossing twice. Japan have still never beaten England, who were sharp and efficient, taking their chances when they arose and showing variety in attack. Yet routing an opponent ranked No.13 in the world papers over the cracks of a season that has seen the team go backward. The three southern hemisphere powers had already stormed Twickenham to place Borthwick under pressure heading into the Six Nations, with his record for 2024 reading five victories in 12 matches. Ireland in Dublin is England's next assignment and this romp has at least lifted the heavy burden of a losing run that registered the nation's worst sequence of results since 2018 - when Jones was in charge. The onslaught began as early as the ninth minute when Marcus Smith and Henry Slade combined to send Ollie Lawrence charging into space. Ben Earl was in support to take the scoring pass. England made ground with every attack and the alarm bells started ringing for Japan when Sam Underhill forced his way over following muscular work from his pack. Underhill was injured while carrying the ball over the line, ending his game, but the one way traffic continued with England repeatedly driving tacklers backward in contact. Over went a driving maul with George the scorer and only a knock on from scrumhalf Jack van Poortvliet prevented Tommy Freeman from extending the lead further. But the next score arrived soon enough with the maul and George delivering once again to extend the lead to 28-0. It was already looking grim for Japan but the visitors showed their flair for attack by racing through a large hole in the home midfield for Naoto Saito to touch down. Lawrence's pinball run and a long floated pass by Will Stuart sent Ollie Sleightholme over, ushering in a long second half for Japan. They emerged from the break showing far greater resolve, however, and for much of the third quarter England's players were forced to roll up their sleeves as white shirts pressured their defence. But when the opportunity arrived to strike, England grabbed it with a lineout turnover kicked to the wing where Freeman produced an outrageous around-the-back pass for George Furbank to finish. Spinning as he carried from short range, Cowan-Dickie was the next to cross but again Japan showed its threat with the ball when Kazuki Himeno rounded off a move full of imagination. England responded with tries from Cowan-Dickie and Tom Roebuck to complete the win.Trump wants to turn the clock on daylight saving timeNone

First Interstate BancSystem (NASDAQ:FIBK) Hits New 52-Week High – Should You Buy?

Softchoice Co. ( TSE:SFTC – Get Free Report ) hit a new 52-week high during mid-day trading on Thursday . The stock traded as high as C$22.87 and last traded at C$22.55, with a volume of 893 shares trading hands. The stock had previously closed at C$22.44. Analyst Ratings Changes Several equities research analysts have recently issued reports on SFTC shares. Cormark lifted their price objective on shares of Softchoice from C$24.00 to C$25.50 in a research report on Monday, November 11th. Royal Bank of Canada upped their target price on Softchoice from C$19.00 to C$20.00 and gave the company a “sector perform” rating in a research report on Monday, August 12th. Scotiabank upgraded Softchoice from a “sector perform” rating to an “outperform” rating and boosted their price objective for the company from C$20.00 to C$24.00 in a research note on Tuesday, November 12th. Finally, ATB Capital raised Softchoice from a “sector perform” rating to an “outperform” rating and boosted their target price for the company from C$18.50 to C$23.00 in a report on Monday, August 12th. Two equities research analysts have rated the stock with a hold rating and three have assigned a buy rating to the company’s stock. According to data from MarketBeat.com, Softchoice has an average rating of “Moderate Buy” and a consensus target price of C$22.67. Read Our Latest Research Report on Softchoice Softchoice Stock Performance About Softchoice ( Get Free Report ) Softchoice Corporation designs, procures, implements, and manages information technology (IT) solutions in Canada and the United States. The company offers cloud and data center solutions, such as data center and application modernization; collaboration and digital workplace solutions comprising secure access, and adoption and change management; IT asset management solutions, including software and hardware asset management solutions, and IT procurement services; network and security support solutions. Further Reading Receive News & Ratings for Softchoice Daily - Enter your email address below to receive a concise daily summary of the latest news and analysts' ratings for Softchoice and related companies with MarketBeat.com's FREE daily email newsletter .

Mississippi State overcomes early deficit to down Prairie View A&MJaipur: Rajasthan Chief Minister Bhajan Lal Sharma's governance in the state has been praised by the party workers, who credited the work done by the government with the BJP's impressive performance in the November 13 by-elections in the desert state as it bagged five out of seven seats. Meanwhile, questions are being raised over alleged infighting among Congress workers over its disappointing performance due to which its tally has been reduced to one which was four before these bypolls. Political observers believe that the by-election results on seven assembly seats have made significant political implications on veteran leaders including Chief Minister Bhajan Lal Sharma, former deputy CM Sachin Pilot, state unit Rajasthan Congress chief Govind Singh Dotasra, ex-state Cabinet minister Kirodi Lal Meena and RLP convenor Hanuman Beniwal. Notably, the BJP has won Jhunjhunu, Deoli Uniara, Ramgarh, Salumber, and Khinvsar. However, Congress has won Dausa while the BAP won Chorasi. BJP workers submitted that "Sharma's stature in the party has definitely been elevated after the victory on five seats as it shows that the people have marked a stamp of approval on his good governance". In fact, Sharma himself attended highest election meetings which were equal to those being attended by former CM Ashok Gehlot and Sachin Pilot together. Meanwhile, CM Sharma credited the victory in five Assembly seats to Prime Minister Narendra Modi's work. He said: "People trust what PM Narendra Modi says and does. The credit of this victory goes to him, BJP's vote share has increased by 15 per cent in this election and so has workers' dedication and hardwork." Party leaders said that micro-management on party levels, coordination among party workers and Haryana elections have boosted the confidence of party workers and hence this grand victory. Speaking in this context, former Chief Minister Vasundhara Raje said: "Winning five out of seven seats is not an easy task. Congratulations on central and state leadership on this victory. Heartiest congratulations to all." State in-charge Radha Mohan Das Agarwal also congratulated all on the historic victory of the BJP in the bypolls. He said: "We had one seat before bypolls, now we have won five seats due to the people' support." The BJP leader said that the Dausa seat has been won by Congress by a very thin margin. "Also, we have reduced the margin of win in Chorasi." Rajasthan unit party president Madan Rathore told IANS: "The party wanted to go with the best names and hence co-ordinated with each layer of workers to consult on winnable candidates. Once a consensus was built, the names were discussed with Delhi leaders. The names were announced only after consensus was arrived upon on aspiring candidates." Former state BJP president Satish Poonia also gave credit to this victory to the organisation's micro-management methods. "BJP's micro-management stands different from other parties. 'Sangathan ke vichar, double engine ki sarkar' helped the party win," he added. Of the seven contested seats, Congress previously held four seats, BJP had one, and the remaining two were with smaller parties -- the Rashtriya Loktantrik Party (RLP) and Bharat Adivasi Party (BAP). This made the bypolls a test for the BJP's governance under Chief Minister Bhajan Lal Sharma. For the BJP, it was an opportunity to consolidate its position and counter Congress's momentum. Jhunjhunu was a tough seat for BJP as there was Congress' Ola family holding the fort for over 20 years. The BJP finally wrested the seat from Congress as the BJP candidate Rajendra Bhambhu won with a massive margin of 45,562 votes, leaving his rival candidate Amit Ola from Congress much behind. Many heavyweights have fallen flat in these elections. State Minister Kirodi Lal Meena's brother Jagmohan Meena had to face defeat. Similarly, Congress MP Brijendra Ola's son Amit Ola lost in Jhunjhunu and MP Hanuman Beniwal's wife Kanika Beniwal lost in Khinvsar. Congress candidate from Khinvsar, Ratan Chaudhary's deposit has been forfeited. In Khinvsar, Kanika Beniwal lost to BJP's Rewant Ram Danga by more than 13,000 votes. Similarly, the tables turned in the last round of Salumber Assembly constituency and BJP's Shanta Meena won defeating her rival BAP candidate Jitesh Kumar Katara. Congress' Deendayal Bairwa from Dausa Assembly seat, BJP's Rajendra Bhambu from Jhunjhunu, BJP's Rajendra Gurjar from Deoli-Uniara, BJP's Sukhwant Singh from Ramgarh recorded a massive win. Meanwhile, Bharatiya Adivasi Party (BAP) candidate Anil Kumar Katara has won from Chorasi assembly seat. Congress' PCC chief Govind Dotasra accepted the defeat as a verdict of the people of the state. Meanwhile, hints of factionalism affecting party prospects also came out as many leaders told IANS that 'Pilot versus Gehlot' factor again led to the party's defeat. Jhunjhunu, Dausa and Deoli Uniara have a large number of people from the Gujjar community. "However, why did Sachin Pilot not make many visits? Questions were also being raised on Gehlot's absence from campaigning sites," a party worker said. "Our PCC president Dotasra went to all seats except Jhunjhunu as he was not invited to campaign there. Internal frictions are responsible for losing our strong seats, Those Congress MPs who won LS polls gave tickets to our candidates, so they should be held responsible for their defeat," they added.

PM Modi To Participate In ‘Odisha Parba 2024’ In Delhi Tomorrow

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The move could usher in an end to a protracted political crisis in the European Union country following the annulment of a presidential election by a top court. Parliament approved the new administration in a 240-143 vote in Romania’s 466-seat legislature. The new coalition is made up of the leftist Social Democratic Party (PSD) the centre-right National Liberal Party (PNL), the small ethnic Hungarian UDMR party and national minorities. It caps a month-long period of turmoil in which far-right nationalists made significant gains in a parliamentary election on December 1 a week after a first-round presidential race saw the far-right outsider Calin Georgescu emerge as the front-runner. “It will not be an easy mandate for the future government,” Mr Ciolacu, whose PSD party topped the polls in the parliamentary election, said in a statement. “We are aware that we are in the midst of a deep political crisis,” he said. “It is also a crisis of trust, and this coalition aims to regain the trust of citizens, the trust of the people.” Romania’s 16 ministerial positions will be shared among the parties, which will hold a slim majority in the legislature. It is widely seen as a tactical partnership to shut out far-right nationalists whose voices found fertile ground amid high living costs and a sluggish economy. Mr Ciolacu, who came third in the first-round presidential ballot despite polls indicating he would win the most votes, has served as prime minister since June 2023. After parliament’s approval, President Klaus Iohannis swore in the new government and warned the new Cabinet that it is entering a “difficult new period” in which “for many Romanians, there are major concerns”. Romania was plunged into turmoil after Mr Georgescu’s surprise success in the presidential race, after allegations of electoral violations and Russian interference emerged. Days before the December 8 run-off, the Constitutional Court made the unprecedented move to annul the presidential race. “We go through complicated times, but I think we all learned from mistakes of the past,” Mr Ciolacu said. “I hope that together with my colleagues in the coalition, we’ll find the best solutions to get past the challenges we have in front of us.” Mr Ciolacu said that the new government would aim to quickly organise the rerun of the presidential election in which the new coalition has agreed to put forward an agreed common pro-European candidate. Cristian Andrei, a political consultant based in Bucharest, said that the new government made up of the same political parties will likely embrace “soft populist” rhetoric such as economic patriotism, anti-austerity, and a peace solution in neighbouring Ukraine to counter the rise of far-right populism. “This will be a way to answer the concerns of many Romanians who voted for populists... but will not solve the fundamental problem of trust,” he said. “The only decisive factor now will be who and how convincing the pro-European candidates will be against this popular revolt.” George Simion, the leader of the far-right Alliance for the Unity of Romanians, which came second in the parliamentary election, said that all politicians from his party on Monday would vote against the Ciolacu government. In 2021, the PSD and the PNL also formed an unlikely but increasingly strained coalition together with UDMR, which exited the Cabinet last year after a power-sharing dispute.None

"We got 'em!..." With those three little words to her Australian grandson Sione Tuipulotu, 77-year-old long-standing Melburnian Jaqueline Thomson proved you can take the wee granny out of Glasgow, but you can't take Glasgow out of the wee granny. The old lady was flown back 17,000km from Melbourne to Murrayfield to watch the lad she helped bring up in Australia defeat the nation he grew up wanting to play for ... och, what a tale! And one with a happy ending as she handed over the Hopetoun Cup to Scotland captain Sione after watching him score a barnstorming try in their 27-13 defeat of the Wallabies on Sunday. "She whispered in my ear, 'we got 'em!" revealed Tuipulotu, when asked what Jaqueline had said on handing him the trophy. "Super special. I don't really score many tries. Not for Glasgow, not for Scotland, but that one was pretty special while my gran was here and knowing how much she also wanted to beat Australia!" Jaqueline may have lived in Melbourne most of her life but with Glaswegian brogue still intact, could there have been a happier face at Murrayfield than when she appeared on the big screen to cheers all round. "It does feel weird (seeing her on screen)," admitted Tuipulotu, voice quivering. "But I feel really blessed this is all happening. And not just for me. Before the match, I was a little bit emotional about the fact her life's just gone full circle. "That she's back here watching me play for and captain Scotland. I'm just happy that she gets to have that moment. "She moved over to Australia as a young girl and raised my mum with limited stuff. And now she gets to enjoy this, gets to sit in the stand, and get some recognition. It makes me so happy." And beating Australia? Tuipulotu wanted it as bad as gran. The former Australia under-20 centre was magnificent, looking every inch the Wallaby who'd bounded away. His slick, incisive running and distribution caused Australia problems all afternoon, and he barrelled over for a try from a long line-out, catching the Wallabies criminally napping. His feistiness, too, set the Scottish tone, not least when he got sent crashing by a Joseph-Aukuso Suaalii hit, and rose to offer a few choice words for his assailant, who actually came off worse with an injured arm that forced him out the match. "I didn't really know it was him that hit me. It felt humungous. And when I popped up, I was looking around at who it was and saw he was on the ground, so I said something to him and then he went off." So what did you say, Sione? "I said, 'I hope you're okay'," responded Tuipulotu, perfectly deadpan. "I talk a lot during every game. When you play your mates, you want to beat them. There was a bit of stick out there, but it makes the game a lot more fun for me anyways." It's clear where he gets his feistiness from. Asked tongue-in-cheek if gran might get a hot reception on return to Australia, he grinned: "Er, I don't think she'll mind!"

Trump’s pick for top Hill liaison brings strong conservative ties to a difficult role

NEW YORK , Dec. 9, 2024 /PRNewswire/ -- S&P Dow Jones Indices ("S&P DJI") is clarifying the float-adjusted liquidity ratio (FALR) eligibility criteria used in the S&P U.S. Indices and Dow Jones U.S. Total Stock Market Indices Methodologies. No constituent changes for any U.S. companies currently in the S&P Composite 1500 indices or Dow Jones U.S. Total Stock Market indices will occur, as this simply clarifies and provides more transparency to the existing FALR rule. The below excerpt is the full U.S. Liquidity criteria language, including the clarification: Liquidity. A float-adjusted liquidity ratio (FALR), defined as the annual dollar value traded divided by the float-adjusted market capitalization (FMC), is used to measure liquidity. Using composite pricing and all publicly reported U.S. consolidated volume, annual dollar value traded is defined as the average closing price multiplied by the historical volume over the 365 calendar days prior to the evaluation date. This is reduced to the available trading period for IPOs, spin-offs or public companies considered to be U.S. domiciled for index purposes that do not have 365 calendar days of trading history on a U.S. exchange. In these cases, the dollar value traded available as of the evaluation date is annualized. Eligibility differs depending on the index: S&P Total Market Index Liquidity requirements are reviewed during the quarterly rebalancings. The price (corporate action adjusted) as of the evaluation date, and the shares outstanding and Investable Weight Factor as of the rebalancing effective date are used to calculate the FMC. The evaluation date is five weeks prior to the rebalancing effective date. FALR must be greater than or equal to 0.1. Current constituents have no minimum requirement. IMPACTED INDICES IMPLEMENTATION TIMING The clarification is effective today, Monday, December 9, 2024 . Please note that the S&P U.S. Indices Methodology and Dow Jones U.S. Total Stock Market Indices Methodology on S&P DJI's website are updated with the clarified language. For more information about S&P Dow Jones Indices, please visit www.spglobal.com/spdji . ABOUT S&P DOW JONES INDICES S&P Dow Jones Indices is the largest global resource for essential index-based concepts, data and research, and home to iconic financial market indicators, such as the S&P 500® and the Dow Jones Industrial Average®. More assets are invested in products based on our indices than products based on indices from any other provider in the world. Since Charles Dow invented the first index in 1884, S&P DJI has been innovating and developing indices across the spectrum of asset classes helping to define the way investors measure and trade the markets. S&P Dow Jones Indices is a division of S&P Global (NYSE: SPGI ), which provides essential intelligence for individuals, companies, and governments to make decisions with confidence. For more information, visit www.spglobal.com/spdji . FOR MORE INFORMATION: S&P Dow Jones Indices [email protected] Media Inquiries [email protected] SOURCE S&P Dow Jones IndicesCongressional bicameral team pushes for insurance, pharmaceutical reformNeed for the High Court to sign off on every assisted death 'could be dropped amid fears of lengthy court backlogs'

(The Center Square) – Legislators in Washington, D.C., have taken a number of steps over the past few days to push for insurance and pharmaceutical reforms to be passed before the end of the year. On Wednesday, a bicameral group of Republican and Democrat lawmakers held a press conference discussing the need for pharmacy benefit manager reform to protect small pharmacies across the country and “save lives.” “Whether you are a Republican, Democrat, or an independent, we all want the same thing. We want accessible, affordable, quality health care,” said Rep. Buddy Carter, R-Ga. “We’re not here today to just discuss one bill or to discuss just one patient’s story. We're here because there's broad, bipartisan pharmacy benefit manager, or PBM, reform that is needed to save lives.” Pharmacy benefit managers are the middlemen responsible for managing the drug prices covered by health insurance plans. According to the Harvard Political Review , the problem with pharmacy benefit managers is that they “have vertically integrated with pharmacy chains and health insurers through massive conglomerates.” That then allows them to abuse their power to cut out small pharmacies and increase prices. Carter also signed a letter that was released last week calling on the Department of Justice to dig into the role pharmacy benefit managers played in the opioid epidemic. Reps. Raja Krishnamoorthi, D-Ill., Deborah Ross, D-N.C., and Cliff Benz, R-Ore., all joined him in signing that letter. “The opioid crisis has devastated communities in North Carolina and across the country, and PBMs may have fueled it by prioritizing profits over people,” Ross said on social media . “That’s why I joined a letter calling on the DOJ to investigate their role and hold these bad actors accountable.” The letter looked at recent reports on the largest pharmacy benefit managers, CVS Caremark, Express Scripts, and OptumRx which state that they “colluded and conspired to steer patients towards OxyContin in exchange for $400 million.” OxyContin is a trade name for the narcotic oxycodone hydrochloride, a painkiller available by prescription only. This and the general “lack of transparency” is just one of the many complaints that legislators aired on Wednesday. “My colleagues who are joining me today, Democrats and Republicans ... all recognize that PBMs are decreasing the accessibility, the affordability, and therefore the quality of health care in America,” Carter said. “We have an opportunity, right now, to advance bipartisan legislation that increases reporting requirements, which would heighten transparency and shine a light on the opaque practices of these PBMs.” Carter was also joined by Sen. James Lankford, R-Okla., who is leading the effort to get legislation passed in the U.S. Senate. “This year, we're losing about one pharmacy a day in America,” Lankford said. “We want leadership to be able to take this up and to bring it up in the end-of-year package ... Stop holding up legislation that is bipartisan, bicameral, and solving a problem that Americans need solved.” Get any of our free email newsletters — news headlines, sports, arts & entertainment, state legislature, CFD news, and more.GREELEY, Colo. , Dec. 23, 2024 /PRNewswire/ -- ALLO Fiber is pleased to announce its fiber broadband network build of the City of Boulder, CO. ALLO anticipates construction to begin in the spring of 2025 in city rights-of-way and easements. This fiber connection will enable world-class internet, broadband, cybersecurity, managed services, telephone, and video services for residents and businesses. City Manager Nuria Rivera-Vandermyde said, "We are thrilled to work with ALLO to bring affordable and reliable high-speed internet to every corner of Boulder. This partnership will provide significant benefits to our community. From empowering students and small businesses, to supporting remote work and ensuring that no one is left behind in the digital age." ALLO was founded in 2003, and over the last 21 years has expanded its fiber footprint to reach over one million in population, with a goal to end the digital divide. ALLO maintains a commitment to offering local, hassle-free products and services to the 48 communities it serves. ALLO Colorado General Manager Bob Beiersdorf stated, "We are extremely pleased to be building a world-class fiber to the premises (FTTP) network in Boulder . The opportunity to offer multi-gig, symmetrical speeds to residents, businesses, government, and the education community with consistent network reliability opens the door to immense possibilities for the city. Partnering with the City of Boulder is paramount in providing equitable services to its residents and that spirit of partnership has been exceptional to date." The fiber network will feature up to 10 Gigabit speeds for residents and up to 100 Gigabit speeds for businesses, providing equal upload and download speeds optimized by ALLO's world-class Wi-Fi 7 routers. Boulder residents, businesses of all sizes, and governmental entities will be supported by ALLO's fiber-rich network, which delivers active and passive solutions without installation fees or restrictive contracts. Internet, data transport, cloud connectivity, video, voice, next-generation firewalls, cybersecurity, and phone systems are included in ALLO's comprehensive communications, entertainment, and business products and services. Boulder is ALLO's eleventh market in Colorado . ALLO currently has customers in Breckenridge , Brighton , Brush , Eaton , Erie , Evans , Fort Morgan , Greeley , Hudson , and Kersey . Visit AlloFiber.com/ Boulder and AlloFiber.com/careers for more information. About ALLO Communications ALLO Communications, a leader in providing fiber-optic services, has been dedicated to delivering world-class communications and entertainment services since 2003. With a commitment to building Gigabit communities, ALLO serves over 50 communities across Nebraska , Colorado , Arizona , Missouri , Iowa , and Kansas . ALLO is known for reliable fiber networks and customized technology solutions that support businesses of all sizes. For more information, visit AlloFiber.com . Tanna Hanna Vice President of Marketing Tanna.Hanna@allofiber.com 308-633-7815 View original content to download multimedia: https://www.prnewswire.com/news-releases/the-power-of-allos-all-fiber-network-coming-to-boulder-colorado-302338556.html SOURCE ALLO Communications

Global Commercial Real Estate (CRE) Software Market Size, Share and Forecast By Key Players-Brokermint,CoStar,Tranquil CRM,Altus Group,Buildout 12-23-2024 07:52 PM CET | Advertising, Media Consulting, Marketing Research Press release from: Market Research Intellect Commercial Real Estate (CRE) Software Market USA, New Jersey- According to the Market Research Intellect, the global Commercial Real Estate (CRE) Software market is projected to grow at a robust compound annual growth rate (CAGR) of 12.5% from 2024 to 2031. Starting with a valuation of 10.11 Billion in 2024, the market is expected to reach approximately 20.5 Billion by 2031, driven by factors such as Commercial Real Estate (CRE) Software and Commercial Real Estate (CRE) Software. This significant growth underscores the expanding demand for Commercial Real Estate (CRE) Software across various sectors. The Commercial Real Estate (CRE) software market has experienced significant growth due to the increasing complexity of managing commercial properties and the demand for more efficient operations. As businesses look to streamline property management, leasing, and investment processes, CRE software provides essential tools for data analysis, reporting, and portfolio management. The integration of advanced technologies such as Artificial Intelligence (AI), Big Data, and cloud computing has further enhanced the capabilities of CRE software, allowing for better decision-making, predictive analytics, and real-time updates. Additionally, the market is driven by the growing trend of digitization in real estate, with property owners, brokers, and investors adopting digital solutions to improve efficiency and reduce operational costs. With the real estate sector's continued expansion, the CRE software market is set to continue growing, enabling companies to enhance productivity and stay competitive. The dynamics of the Commercial Real Estate (CRE) software market are influenced by technological advancements and shifting industry needs. Key drivers include the increasing demand for data-driven insights, as businesses seek to optimize asset management and investment decisions. AI and machine learning are playing a significant role in improving property valuation, market forecasting, and tenant relationship management. Additionally, cloud-based CRE software is gaining traction, offering scalability, flexibility, and cost-efficiency for companies of all sizes. The rise of mobile applications and digital platforms further enhances customer engagement and operational efficiency. However, challenges such as the complexity of integrating new software with existing systems and the high upfront costs of implementation may pose obstacles for some businesses. Despite these challenges, the market's continued digital transformation and the demand for smarter real estate solutions are expected to drive ongoing growth. Request PDF Sample Copy of Report: (Including Full TOC, List of Tables & Figures, Chart) @ https://www.marketresearchintellect.com/download-sample/?rid=10410280&utm_source=OpenPr&utm_medium=049 Key Drivers: The growth of the Commercial Real Estate (CRE) Software market is driven by several key factors. Technological advancements in Commercial Real Estate (CRE) Software have enabled greater efficiency and enhanced capabilities, spurring adoption across industries. Additionally, the rising demand for sustainable and eco-friendly solutions is pushing companies to innovate and adopt greener practices. Expanding applications in sectors like Commercial Real Estate (CRE) Software and Commercial Real Estate (CRE) Software are further contributing to market demand, as these industries seek advanced solutions to streamline operations and enhance product quality. Favorable government policies and incentives in regions such as North America, Europe, and Asia-Pacific support investment and growth. Moreover, an increasing focus on Commercial Real Estate (CRE) Software for improving operational efficiency and cost-effectiveness is encouraging businesses to embrace new technologies, fostering sustained market expansion. Mergers and Acquisitions Mergers and acquisitions (M&A) play a pivotal role in the Commercial Real Estate (CRE) Software market, as companies look to expand their capabilities, access new technologies, and strengthen market presence. Leading players engage in strategic acquisitions to consolidate their position and gain a competitive edge. These transactions often facilitate the integration of advanced Commercial Real Estate (CRE) Software solutions, helping firms broaden their product portfolios and meet growing customer demands. Additionally, M&A activities support companies in achieving economies of scale and penetrating new regional markets, particularly in high-growth areas like Asia-Pacific. Through such strategic alliances, businesses aim to accelerate innovation, enhance operational efficiency, and address evolving market challenges, ultimately driving the overall growth of the Commercial Real Estate (CRE) Software market. Get a Discount On The Purchase Of This Report @ https://www.marketresearchintellect.com/ask-for-discount/?rid=10410280&utm_source=OpenPr&utm_medium=049 The following Key Segments Are Covered in Our Report By Type Cloud Based On-premises By Application Broker Investor/Appraiser Property Manager Major companies in Commercial Real Estate (CRE) Software Market are: Brokermint,CoStar,Tranquil CRM,Altus Group,Buildout,MRI Software,Apto,REthink,PropertyMetrics,Oracle,AscendixRE,Ascendix Technologies,ClientLook,CommissionTrac,Realhound,Sell.Do,Forbury,VTS,SharpLaunch,Reonomy,ARGUS,Quarem,Valcre,Affinity.co Global Commercial Real Estate (CRE) Software Market -Regional Analysis North America: North America is expected to hold a significant share of the Commercial Real Estate (CRE) Software market due to advanced technological infrastructure and the presence of major market players. High demand across sectors like Commercial Real Estate (CRE) Software and Commercial Real Estate (CRE) Software is driving growth, with the U.S. being a key contributor. Additionally, ongoing investments in R&D and innovation reinforce the region's strong market position. Europe: Europe is projected to experience steady growth, driven by stringent regulatory standards and a rising focus on sustainability in Commercial Real Estate (CRE) Software practices. Countries like Germany, France, and the UK are leading due to their advanced industrial base and supportive government policies. The demand for eco-friendly and efficient Commercial Real Estate (CRE) Software solutions is expected to continue fostering market expansion. Asia-Pacific: Asia-Pacific is anticipated to be the fastest-growing region, fueled by rapid industrialization and urbanization. Countries such as China, India, and Japan are driving demand due to expanding consumer bases and increasing investments in infrastructure. The region's robust manufacturing sector and favorable economic policies further enhance growth opportunities in the Commercial Real Estate (CRE) Software market. Latin America: Latin America and the Middle East & Africa are expected to show moderate growth in the Commercial Real Estate (CRE) Software market. In Latin America, growth is supported by rising industrial activities in countries like Brazil and Mexico. Meanwhile, in the Middle East & Africa, infrastructure development and an increasing focus on innovation in sectors like Commercial Real Estate (CRE) Software are key drivers of market expansion. Middle East and Africa: The Middle East and Africa represent emerging markets in the global Commercial Real Estate (CRE) Software market, with countries like UAE, Saudi Arabia, South Africa, and Nigeria showing promising growth potential. Economic diversification efforts, urbanization, and a young population are driving demand for Commercial Real Estate (CRE) Software products and services in the region. Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ) 1. What is the current size of the Commercial Real Estate (CRE) Software market? Answer: The Commercial Real Estate (CRE) Software market was valued at approximately 10.11 Billion in 2024, with projections suggesting it will reach 20.5 Billion by 2031, growing at a CAGR of 12.5%. 2. What factors are driving the growth of the Commercial Real Estate (CRE) Software market? Answer: The market's expansion is attributed to several factors, including increased demand for Commercial Real Estate (CRE) Software, advancements in Commercial Real Estate (CRE) Software technology, and the adoption of Commercial Real Estate (CRE) Software across various sectors. 3. Which regions are expected to dominate the Commercial Real Estate (CRE) Software market? Answer: Regions such as North America, Europe, and Asia-Pacific are anticipated to lead due to the presence of major industry players and growing investments in Commercial Real Estate (CRE) Software. 4. Who are the key players in the Commercial Real Estate (CRE) Software market? Answer: Prominent companies in the Commercial Real Estate (CRE) Software market include Commercial Real Estate (CRE) Software, Commercial Real Estate (CRE) Software, and Commercial Real Estate (CRE) Software, each contributing to market growth through innovations and strategic partnerships. 5. What challenges does the Commercial Real Estate (CRE) Software market face? Answer: The market faces challenges such as Commercial Real Estate (CRE) Software, regulatory compliance, and competition from alternative solutions. However, ongoing advancements aim to address these issues. 6. What are the future trends in the Commercial Real Estate (CRE) Software market? Emerging trends include the integration of Commercial Real Estate (CRE) Software technology, sustainability practices, and digital transformation in processes, all expected to shape the market's future. 7. How can businesses benefit from the Commercial Real Estate (CRE) Software market? Answer: Businesses can leverage growth opportunities in the Commercial Real Estate (CRE) Software market by adopting new solutions, enhancing operational efficiency, and expanding their offerings to meet evolving consumer demands. 8. Why invest in a Commercial Real Estate (CRE) Software market report from MRI? Answer: MRI's report provides in-depth analysis, future projections, and key insights to support strategic decision-making, enabling businesses to stay competitive and capitalize on growth trends in the Commercial Real Estate (CRE) Software market. For More Information or Query, Visit @ https://www.marketresearchintellect.com/product/commercial-real-estate-cre-software-market/?utm_source=OpenPr&utm_medium=049 https://www.linkedin.com/pulse/hev-nickel-foam-market-size-forecast-industry-e9qif/ https://www.linkedin.com/pulse/automotive-air-conditioners-consumption-market-ka0tf/ https://www.linkedin.com/pulse/raman-spectroscopy-market-size-forecast-key-iboxf/ https://www.linkedin.com/pulse/diagnostic-electrophysiology-ep-catheters-market-pt7lf/ https://www.linkedin.com/pulse/passenger-car-starting-battery-market-size-invzf/ https://www.linkedin.com/pulse/china-voip-market-size-forecast-impact-technology-gqnaf/ https://www.linkedin.com/pulse/electric-chafing-dish-consumption-market-size-65cef/ https://www.linkedin.com/pulse/orthopedic-support-cervical-vertebra-market-dct9f/ https://www.linkedin.com/pulse/angle-sensors-market-size-forecast-trends-insights-mn0nf/ 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Strategic Wealth Partners Ltd. increased its holdings in Microsoft Co. ( NASDAQ:MSFT – Free Report ) by 3.5% in the third quarter, according to the company in its most recent Form 13F filing with the Securities & Exchange Commission. The firm owned 74,254 shares of the software giant’s stock after purchasing an additional 2,490 shares during the period. Microsoft accounts for 3.1% of Strategic Wealth Partners Ltd.’s investment portfolio, making the stock its 4th biggest position. Strategic Wealth Partners Ltd.’s holdings in Microsoft were worth $31,952,000 as of its most recent SEC filing. Several other institutional investors have also recently added to or reduced their stakes in MSFT. Christopher J. Hasenberg Inc boosted its position in shares of Microsoft by 169.2% in the second quarter. Christopher J. Hasenberg Inc now owns 70 shares of the software giant’s stock worth $31,000 after acquiring an additional 44 shares during the last quarter. Quarry LP purchased a new stake in Microsoft during the second quarter worth approximately $45,000. Innealta Capital LLC acquired a new stake in shares of Microsoft in the second quarter worth $75,000. Bellevue Group AG raised its stake in shares of Microsoft by 47.5% in the 1st quarter. Bellevue Group AG now owns 180 shares of the software giant’s stock valued at $76,000 after acquiring an additional 58 shares during the period. Finally, Bbjs Financial Advisors LLC lifted its holdings in shares of Microsoft by 241.4% during the 2nd quarter. Bbjs Financial Advisors LLC now owns 379 shares of the software giant’s stock valued at $169,000 after acquiring an additional 268 shares in the last quarter. 71.13% of the stock is currently owned by institutional investors and hedge funds. Microsoft Stock Performance Shares of MSFT opened at $417.00 on Friday. The stock has a market capitalization of $3.10 trillion, a price-to-earnings ratio of 34.41, a PEG ratio of 2.19 and a beta of 0.91. Microsoft Co. has a 12 month low of $362.90 and a 12 month high of $468.35. The firm has a fifty day simple moving average of $421.94 and a 200 day simple moving average of $426.19. The company has a current ratio of 1.30, a quick ratio of 1.29 and a debt-to-equity ratio of 0.15. Microsoft announced that its Board of Directors has authorized a share buyback plan on Monday, September 16th that allows the company to repurchase $60.00 billion in outstanding shares. This repurchase authorization allows the software giant to buy up to 1.9% of its shares through open market purchases. Shares repurchase plans are generally an indication that the company’s board believes its stock is undervalued. Microsoft Increases Dividend The company also recently declared a quarterly dividend, which will be paid on Thursday, December 12th. Investors of record on Thursday, November 21st will be issued a dividend of $0.83 per share. This is a boost from Microsoft’s previous quarterly dividend of $0.75. This represents a $3.32 annualized dividend and a yield of 0.80%. The ex-dividend date of this dividend is Thursday, November 21st. Microsoft’s dividend payout ratio (DPR) is presently 27.39%. Insider Activity at Microsoft In other Microsoft news, CMO Takeshi Numoto sold 2,500 shares of the stock in a transaction that occurred on Tuesday, September 10th. The shares were sold at an average price of $411.04, for a total transaction of $1,027,600.00. Following the transaction, the chief marketing officer now owns 50,000 shares in the company, valued at $20,552,000. This represents a 4.76 % decrease in their position. The sale was disclosed in a document filed with the SEC, which is available at this hyperlink . Also, CEO Satya Nadella sold 78,353 shares of Microsoft stock in a transaction that occurred on Wednesday, September 4th. The shares were sold at an average price of $408.63, for a total transaction of $32,017,386.39. Following the completion of the sale, the chief executive officer now owns 864,327 shares of the company’s stock, valued at approximately $353,189,942.01. The trade was a 8.31 % decrease in their ownership of the stock. The disclosure for this sale can be found here . Insiders sold 183,431 shares of company stock worth $74,956,968 in the last ninety days. 0.03% of the stock is owned by company insiders. Wall Street Analyst Weigh In Several equities research analysts have recently weighed in on the company. UBS Group decreased their target price on Microsoft from $510.00 to $500.00 and set a “buy” rating for the company in a research report on Thursday, October 31st. Morgan Stanley upped their price target on Microsoft from $506.00 to $548.00 and gave the stock an “overweight” rating in a report on Thursday, October 31st. The Goldman Sachs Group dropped their price objective on shares of Microsoft from $515.00 to $500.00 and set a “buy” rating on the stock in a research note on Thursday, October 10th. Oppenheimer downgraded shares of Microsoft from an “outperform” rating to a “market perform” rating in a research note on Tuesday, October 8th. Finally, KeyCorp lifted their price target on shares of Microsoft from $490.00 to $505.00 and gave the stock an “overweight” rating in a research note on Friday, October 18th. Three investment analysts have rated the stock with a hold rating and twenty-seven have issued a buy rating to the company’s stock. According to MarketBeat, Microsoft presently has a consensus rating of “Moderate Buy” and an average target price of $503.03. Read Our Latest Stock Report on MSFT Microsoft Company Profile ( Free Report ) Microsoft Corporation develops and supports software, services, devices and solutions worldwide. The Productivity and Business Processes segment offers office, exchange, SharePoint, Microsoft Teams, office 365 Security and Compliance, Microsoft viva, and Microsoft 365 copilot; and office consumer services, such as Microsoft 365 consumer subscriptions, Office licensed on-premises, and other office services. Featured Stories Five stocks we like better than Microsoft How Technical Indicators Can Help You Find Oversold Stocks Vertiv’s Cool Tech Makes Its Stock Red-Hot 5 discounted opportunities for dividend growth investors MarketBeat Week in Review – 11/18 – 11/22 What is a support level? 2 Finance Stocks With Competitive Advantages You Can’t Ignore Receive News & Ratings for Microsoft Daily - Enter your email address below to receive a concise daily summary of the latest news and analysts' ratings for Microsoft and related companies with MarketBeat.com's FREE daily email newsletter .The surge of drone sightings in New Jersey and across the U.S. has prompted an array of conspiracy theories and false claims online.A joint statement on Dec. 17 from the FBI, Department of Homeland Security, Federal Aviation Administration and Department of Defense said the sightings include legal commercial, hobbyist and law enforcement drones, as well as manned planes and helicopters. Two days later , New York Gov. Kathy Hochul said drones would be banned over certain "critical infrastructure" in the state. The FAA announced similar restrictions in New Jersey.While President Joe Biden said there doesn't appear to be anything "nefarious" about the sightings, social media users have continued to spread misinformation about the aircraft's origin and mission. Related : Debunking false, misleading claims about President-elect Trump | Fact check roundup Here's a roundup of checks about drone sightings from the USA TODAY Fact Check Team: Claim: Video shows drone crash in New Jersey Our rating: False The video does not show a drone crash. The footage is from a Dec. 12 plane crash near the border of New York and Connecticut, according to media reports. Full fact check: Video shows plane wreck near Connecticut, not New Jersey drone crash Claim: Drones deployed in New Jersey to search for missing radioactive material Our rating: False No drones were used in the search for the substance, according to a spokesperson for the New Jersey agency in charge of overseeing its recovery. The first drone sightings predate the misplacement of the substance by two weeks. Full fact check: Drones were not used to find radioactive material lost in New Jersey Claim: Pentagon ‘confirmed’ drones spotted in US skies are ‘not of earthly origin’ Our rating: False The Pentagon said nothing of the sort. While a spokesperson ruled out a foreign “adversary" or the U.S. military as operators of the crafts, she suggested other possible explanations for the sightings in the same news conference. Full fact check: Pentagon spokesperson did not 'confirm' drones were from space Claim: Image shows drone that crashed in Alabama in December 2024 Our rating: False The image has circulated online since at least February 2023 and shows a replica spacecraft from the "Star Wars" movies. Full fact check: No, that's not a crashed drone. It's a TIE fighter replica Thank you for supporting our journalism. You can subscribe to our print edition, ad-free app or e-newspaper here . USA TODAY is a verified signatory of the International Fact-Checking Network, which requires a demonstrated commitment to nonpartisanship, fairness and transparency. Our fact-check work is supported in part by a grant from Meta .

NEW YORK (AP) — Free agent pitchers Luis Gabriel Moreno and Alejandro Crisostomo were suspended for 80 games each by Major League Baseball on Friday following positive tests for performance-enhancing substances under the minor league drug program. Moreno tested positive for Nandrolone, and Crisostomo tested positive for Boldenone and Nandrolone, the commissioner’s office said. A 26-year-old right-hander, Moreno was released by the New York Mets’ Class A Brooklyn Cyclones on Tuesday. He was 5-1 with a 5.33 ERA in 12 relief appearances this season for Brooklyn after spending 2016-23 in the San Francisco Giants organization. Crisostomo, a 24-year-old right-hander, was released by Minnesota on Aug. 24 after going 0-1 with a 7.13 ERA this year with the Florida Complex League Twins. He signed with Boston in 2017, spent 2018 in the Dominican Summer League with the Red Sox, then signed with Minnesota and spent 2023 with the Twins DSL team. Nineteen players have been suspended this year for positive drug tests, including eight under the minor league program and nine under the new program for minor league players assigned outside the United States and Canada. Two players have been suspended this year under the major league drug program. Noelvi Marté , a 22-year-old infielder who is the Cincinnati Reds’ top prospect, missed the first 80 games following a positive test for boldenone. Toronto Blue Jays infielder Orelvis Martínez was suspended for 80 games on June 23 following a positive test for the performance-enhancing drug clomiphene, an announcement made two days after his major league debut . AP MLB: https://apnews.com/hub/mlbNew pro-European coalition approved in Romania amid period of political turmoil

cockfighting videos ATLANTA (AP) — The Atlanta Falcons are back in first place in the NFC South and again in control of their playoff hopes. Rookie quarterback Michael Penix Jr. showed the poise in his first NFL start the Falcons will need to take advantage of their opportunity to end a six-year playoff drought. Powered by a big-play defense that produced two pick-6s, a solid starting debut by Penix and two rushing touchdowns by Bijan Robinson, the Falcons cruised past the hapless New York Giants 34-7 on Sunday. On Sunday night, the Falcons (8-7) received the assist they needed when Tampa Bay lost at Dallas . Because the Falcons swept the Buccaneers, they hold the tiebreaker advantage if they remain tied atop the division. The Falcons have games remaining at Washington on Sunday night and at home against Carolina to close the regular season. If Atlanta wins both games, it would win the division and have a home playoff game. The Falcons are assured of their best record since a 10-6 finish under coach Dan Quinn in 2017, their most recent playoff season. Quinn is in his first season as Washington's coach and has led the Commanders (10-5) to three straight wins, including Sunday's 36-33 victory over Philadelphia. Penix, the No. 8 overall pick in this year's NFL draft, was promoted after coach Raheem Morris benched Kirk Cousins. Penix completed 18 of 27 passes for 202 yards with one interception on a pass that should have been caught by tight end Kyle Pitts. Penix is not a dual-threat quarterback, but he showed the ability to escape pressure in the pocket that Cousins lacks following his 2023 Achilles tendon injury. The left-hander's superior arm strength also was immediately obvious. Robinson's production provided a safety net for the offense which helped make for a smooth transition to Penix. Robinson had scoring runs of 2 and 4 yards. Robinson has rushed for 10 touchdowns this season. He's the first Atlanta player with 10 more more rushing touchdowns since Devonta Freeman during the 2016 Super Bowl season. Robinson ran for 94 yards on 22 carries and had 103 yards from scrimmage. His 11th game this season with at least 100 yards from scrimmage are the most for the Falcons since Warrick Dunn's 11 in 2005. Morris said Robinson deserves to be considered with Philadelphia's Saquon Barkley in discussions regarding the league's top running backs. “Bijan has been outstanding all year in the things that he’s able to do," Morris said. “He’s special. If it wasn’t for this other guy out in Philly, he’d get a lot more recognition across the league. But that guy is having a special year, and Bijan’s not far behind him.” With kicker Younghoe Koo on injured reserve and watching from the sideline, Riley Patterson was wide left on his first field-goal attempt from 43 yards. Patterson rebounded to make attempts from 52 and 37 yards. Jessie Bates III and Matthew Judon each had a pick-6 to highlight a day of big plays for the defense. Arnold Ebiketie had his fifth sack of the season and added a fumble recovery. Kaden Ellis added a strip-sack. He also has five sacks this season, including sacks in four consecutive games. It is the longest streak for Atlanta since Patrick Kerney had sacks in five straight games in 2001. There was some thought that a change at quarterback could be good news for Pitts, who often seemed to be missing in action with Cousins running the offense. After all, a tight end often is a natural target for quick passes from a rookie making his first start. Instead, Pitts had a poor start to the Penix era when he bobbled his first pass from the left-hander, creating an interception by cornerback Cor’Dale Flott. Pitts caught a 7-yard pass on his only other target. For the season, Pitts has 41 catches for 543 yards and three touchdowns. There will be much interest in this week's injury report after WR Drake London (hamstring) was hurt in the second half. Morris provided an optimistic postgame outlook on London. CB Antonio Hamilton (quad) did not return after leaving the game in the first half. 8: Bates has four interceptions and four forced fumbles. His combined eight forced turnovers lead the NFL. The game against Jayden Daniels and the Commanders is a reminder Penix was only the fourth of six quarterbacks selected in the first round of the NFL draft. Daniels, from LSU, was the No. 2 overall pick behind Caleb Williams by Chicago. AP NFL: https://apnews.com/hub/nflEx-Cleveland Councilman Basheer Jones used sway to swindle nonprofits, feds sayAre you not entertained?: Mississippi win shows Florida's Billy Napier has turned the corner

SinoHytec, Toyota co-invest 1,9 billion yen in joint fuel cell venture in China On December 16, Beijing SinoHytec Co., Ltd. (“SinoHytec”) announced that it will jointly increase capital investment in its joint venture, Toyota SinoHytec Fuel Cell Co., Ltd. (“Toyota SinoHytec”), alongside Toyota Motor Corporation (“Toyota Motor”). The total capital injection amounts to 1.9 billion yen (approximately 89.61 million yuan), with SinoHytec contributing 950 million yen (around 44.81 million yuan). Following the capital increase, the registered capital of Toyota SinoHytec will rise from 4.5 billion yen to 6.4 billion yen (about 302 million yuan), while SinoHytec and Toyota Motor will each maintain their 50% ownership stake. The joint venture, established in June 2021, focuses on producing and commercializing fuel cell systems to support the adoption of fuel cell electric vehicles (FCEVs). Leveraging Toyota’s advanced fuel cell technology and localized R&D, the company designs systems that meet the diverse power output requirements of China’s commercial vehicle market. These systems offer high power, reliability, longevity, and cost efficiency, suitable for buses, coaches, logistics vehicles, and trucks. the latest news shaping the hydrogen market at SinoHytec, Toyota co-invest 1,9 billion yen in joint fuel cell venture in China, Impact Coatings Receives Order from Feintool (China) for INLINECOATER IC2000 for Fuel Cell Coatings Impact Coatings AB (publ) has received an order for an INLINECOATERTM IC2000 from Feintool Precision System Parts... Hyzon Receives Order for Refuse Collection And Class 8 200kW Fuel Cell Electric Trucks From South San Francisco Scavenger Company BOLINGBROOK, Ill., December 17, 2024 – Hyzon (NASDAQ: HYZN) (Hyzon or the Company), a U.S... Blue Origin Licenses Nimbus Power Systems’ Fuel Cell Technology for Development of Space Power Systems GROTON, Conn.–(BUSINESS WIRE)–Nimbus Power Systems, Inc., a pioneering developer of advanced fuel cell...UTAH TECH 68, DENVER 54

Uwill Founder & CEO Michael London Named Innovator in Healthcare

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With rookie QB Penix showing poise in starting debut, the Falcons again control their playoff hopes

NEW YORK (AP) — U.S. stocks rose to records Tuesday after Donald Trump’s latest talk about tariffs created only some ripples on Wall Street, even if they could roil the global economy were they to take effect. The S&P 500 climbed 0.6% to top the all-time high it set a couple weeks ago. The Dow Jones Industrial Average added 123 points, or 0.3%, to its own record set the day before, while the Nasdaq composite gained 0.6% as Microsoft and Big Tech led the way. Stock markets abroad mostly fell after President-elect Trump said he plans to impose sweeping new tariffs on Mexico, Canada and China once he takes office. But the movements were mostly modest. Stock indexes were down 0.1% in Shanghai and nearly flat in Hong Kong, while Canada’s main index edged down by less than 0.1%. Trump has often praised the use of tariffs , but investors are weighing whether his latest threat will actually become policy or is just an opening point for negotiations. For now, the market seems to be taking it more as the latter. The consequences otherwise for markets and the global economy could be painful. Unless the United States can prepare alternatives for the autos, energy products and other goods that come from Mexico, Canada and China, such tariffs would raise the price of imported items all at once and make households poorer, according to Carl Weinberg and Rubeela Farooqi, economists at High Frequency Economics. They would also hurt profit margins for U.S. companies, while raising the threat of retaliatory tariffs by other countries. And unlike tariffs in Trump’s first term, his latest proposal would affect products across the board. General Motors sank 9%, and Ford Motor fell 2.6% because both import automobiles from Mexico. Constellation Brands, which sells Modelo and other Mexican beer brands in the United States, dropped 3.3%. The value of the Mexican peso fell 1.8% against the U.S. dollar. Beyond the pain such tariffs would cause U.S. households and businesses, they could also push the Federal Reserve to slow or even halt its cuts to interest rates. The Fed had just begun easing its main interest rate from a two-decade high a couple months ago to offer support for the job market . While lower interest rates can boost the economy, they can also offer more fuel for inflation. “Many” officials at the Fed’s last meeting earlier this month said they should lower rates gradually, according to minutes of the meeting released Tuesday afternoon. The talk about tariffs overshadowed another mixed set of profit reports from U.S. retailers that answered few questions about how much more shoppers can keep spending. They’ll need to stay resilient after helping the economy avoid a recession, despite the high interest rates imposed by the Fed to get inflation under control. A report on Tuesday from the Conference Board said confidence among U.S. consumers improved in November, but not by as much as economists expected. Kohl’s tumbled 17% after its results for the latest quarter fell short of analysts’ expectations. CEO Tom Kingsbury said sales remain soft for apparel and footwear. A day earlier, Kingsbury said he plans to step down as CEO in January. Ashley Buchanan, CEO of Michaels and a retail veteran, will replace him. Best Buy fell 4.9% after likewise falling short of analysts’ expectations. Dick’s Sporting Goods topped forecasts for the latest quarter thanks to a strong back-to-school season, but its stock lost an early gain to fall 1.4%. Still, more stocks rose in the S&P 500 than fell. J.M. Smucker had one of the biggest gains and climbed 5.7% after topping analysts’ expectations for the latest quarter. CEO Mark Smucker credited strength for its Uncrustables, Meow Mix, Café Bustelo and Jif brands. Big Tech stocks also helped prop up U.S. indexes. Gains of 3.2% for Amazon and 2.2% for Microsoft were the two strongest forces lifting the S&P 500. All told, the S&P 500 rose 34.26 points to 6,021.63. The Dow gained 123.74 to 44,860.31, and the Nasdaq composite climbed 119.46 to 19,174.30. In the bond market, Treasury yields held relatively steady following their big drop from a day before driven by relief following Trump’s pick for Treasury secretary. The yield on the 10-year Treasury inched up to 4.29% from 4.28% late Monday, but it’s still well below the 4.41% level where it ended last week. In the crypto market, bitcoin continued to pull back after topping $99,000 for the first time late last week. It’s since dipped back toward $91,000, according to CoinDesk. It’s a sharp turnaround from the bonanza that initially took over the crypto market following Trump’s election. That boom had also appeared to have spilled into some corners of the stock market. Strategists at Barclays Capital pointed to stocks of unprofitable companies, along with other areas that can be caught up in bursts of optimism by smaller-pocketed “retail” investors. AP Business Writer Elaine Kurtenbach contributed. Copyright 2024 The Associated Press. All rights reserved. This material may not be published, broadcast, rewritten or redistributed without permission. Stay up-to-date on the latest in local and national government and political topics with our newsletter.

WASHINGTON — There's a common trait that President-elect Donald Trump is clearly prizing as he selects those to serve in his new administration: experience on television. Rep. Sean Duffy, R-Wis., speaks during a hearing July 18, 2018, on Capitol Hill in Washington. President-elect Donald Trump has nominated Duffy to be Transportation Secretary. Trump loves that "central casting" look, as he likes to call it. Some, like his choices for defense secretary, Pete Hegseth, and transportation secretary, Sean Duffy, were until recently TV hosts on Trump's favorite network, Fox News. Mike Huckabee, his pick for U.S. ambassador to Israel, hosted the Fox show “Huckabee” from 2008 to 2015 after his time as Arkansas governor. Dr. Mehmet Oz, a former syndicated talk show host and heart surgeon, was tapped to head the Centers for Medicare and Medicaid Services, the agency that oversees health insurance programs for millions of older, poor and disabled Americans. He would report to Trump's choice for health and human services secretary, Robert F. Kennedy Jr., himself a regular on the cable news circuit. People are also reading... Mitchell Gold + Bob Williams making furniture in Alexander County again Sheriff: 1 arrested, 1 wanted after Statesville man strangled, robbed Lake Norman residents voice concerns with Marshall Steam Station changes Iredell County bridge to close for $1.2 replacement project Basketball transfer Patterson back home at West Iredell to 'bring in some wins' Believers bought airplane for dead preacher thinking he’d rise from grave to fly in it MerMade: Workspace opens in Statesville, caters to artists, crafters Baseball league cries foul as Iredell plans to charge to use Jennings Park fields Statesville embraces underdog role in rematch with defending champ Hickory With supermajority in NC House gone, Iredell's Republican lawmakers talk changes, challenges Catawba native Christina Eagle appears on season 26 of 'The Voice' Mooresville's Farmer, Graham picked to play in Shrine Bowl Iredell County woman wins first $150,000 top prize in new game Statesville sweeps varsity doubleheader with South Iredell; Shehan reaches 1,000 points in Lake Norman win West Iredell starts season strong with win over Bunker Hill Mehmet Oz visits the AW Driving School & License Testing Center on Sept. 23, 2022, in Allentown, Pa. Trump, a former reality television star himself, has made no secret of his intention to stack his administration with loyalists after his decisive 2024 election win — including some whose lack of relevant experience has raised concerns among lawmakers. But he's also working to set up a more forceful administration in this term, and in his eyes, many of those people happen to intersect with celebrity. The trend was not lost on Democratic Rep. Jim Himes of Connecticut, who posted on social media after the Oz nomination: “We are becoming the world’s first nuclear-armed reality television show.” For good measure, Himes added: “Just spitballing here, but what if the Attorney General and the Secretary of HHS fight each other in an octagonal cage?” That was a reference to Trump's affinity for the UFC fighters who do battle in the octagon. Choosing TV personalities isn't that unusual for the once-and-future president: A number of his first-term choices — John Bolton, Larry Kudlow, Heather Nauert and Mercedes Schlapp, were all on TV — mostly also on Fox. Omarosa Manigault Newman, a confrontational first-season member of Trump's NBC show “The Apprentice," was briefly at the White House before she was fired. Former New Jersey Gov. Chris Christie, a Republican who ran Trump’s 2016 transition team until he was fired, said that eight years ago, Trump held “Apprentice-like interviews at Bedminster,” summoning potential hires to his club in New Jersey. On a call on Tuesday organized by the Council on Foreign Relations, Christie said this year’s Cabinet choices are different than 2016’s but it’s still “Donald Trump casting a TV show.” “He’s casting,” Christie said. Trump has readily highlighted the media experience of his choices as he's announced them. He said Duffy, a former lawmaker and onetime cast member of MTV’s “The Real World," was “a STAR on Fox News.” Pete Hegseth walks to an elevator for a meeting with President-elect Donald Trump at Trump Tower on Dec. 15, 2016, in New York. Hegseth, a military veteran, “has been a host at FOX News for eight years, where he used that platform to fight for our Military and Veterans,” Trump said. He also noted that Hegseth's book “The War on Warriors” spent nine weeks on The New York Times “best-sellers list, including two weeks at NUMBER ONE.” As for Oz, Trump said: “He won nine Daytime Emmy Awards hosting ‘The Dr. Oz Show,’ where he taught millions of Americans how to make healthier lifestyle choices." It's also true that those seeking positions in Trump's orbit often take to the airwaves to audition for an audience of one. Tom Homan, Trump's choice for “border czar,” is a frequent Fox contributor. Ohio Sen. JD Vance was chosen as Trump's running mate in part because of how well he comes across on air. Trump's choice to lead the Federal Communications Commission, Brendan Carr, upped his profile when he took to Fox News to argue that a pre-election appearance on NBC's “Saturday Night Live” by Democratic nominee Kamala Harris was a violation of the “equal time” rule governing candidate appearances on television. The White House-to-cable news pundit pipeline tends to cut across administrations of both parties, to some extent. President Joe Biden had three MSNBC contributors on his transition team and his former press secretary went to the network after she left the White House. Biden, though, looked to career diplomats, longtime government workers and military leaders for key posts like the Defense Department. Trump's affinity for Fox News is well-documented, though the romance cooled for a time after Fox made an early call of Arizona for Biden in 2020, a move that infuriated Trump and many of the network’s viewers. Trump suggested viewers should migrate to other conservative news outlets. While the Arizona call ultimately proved correct, it set in motion internal second-guessing and led some Fox personalities to embrace conspiracy theories, which ultimately cost the network $787 million to settle a defamation lawsuit by Dominion Voting Systems. But Trump is still an avid watcher — the network provides Trump a window into conservative thinking, with commentary from Republican lawmakers and thinkers who are, often, speaking directly to the president-elect. Here are the people Trump has picked for key positions so far President-elect Donald Trump Among President-elect Donald Trump's picks are Susie Wiles for chief of staff, Florida Sen. Marco Rubio for secretary of state, former Democratic House member Tulsi Gabbard for director of national intelligence and Florida Rep. Matt Gaetz for attorney general. Susie Wiles, White House Chief of Staff Susie Wiles, 67, was a senior adviser to Trump's 2024 presidential campaign and its de facto manager. Marco Rubio, Secretary of State Trump named Florida Sen. Marco Rubio to be secretary of state, making a former sharp critic his choice to be the new administration's top diplomat. Rubio, 53, is a noted hawk on China, Cuba and Iran, and was a finalist to be Trump's running mate on the Republican ticket last summer. Rubio is the vice chairman of the Senate Intelligence Committee and a member of the Senate Foreign Relations Committee. “He will be a strong Advocate for our Nation, a true friend to our Allies, and a fearless Warrior who will never back down to our adversaries,” Trump said of Rubio in a statement. The announcement punctuates the hard pivot Rubio has made with Trump, whom the senator called a “con man" during his unsuccessful campaign for the 2016 GOP presidential nomination. Their relationship improved dramatically while Trump was in the White House. And as Trump campaigned for the presidency a third time, Rubio cheered his proposals. For instance, Rubio, who more than a decade ago helped craft immigration legislation that included a path to citizenship for people in the U.S. illegally, now supports Trump's plan to use the U.S. military for mass deportations. Pete Hegseth, Secretary of Defense Pete Hegseth, 44, is a co-host of Fox News Channel’s “Fox & Friends Weekend” and has been a contributor with the network since 2014, where he developed a friendship with Trump, who made regular appearances on the show. Hegseth lacks senior military or national security experience. If confirmed by the Senate, he would inherit the top job during a series of global crises — ranging from Russia’s war in Ukraine and the ongoing attacks in the Middle East by Iranian proxies to the push for a cease-fire between Israel, Hamas and Hezbollah and escalating worries about the growing alliance between Russia and North Korea. Hegseth is also the author of “The War on Warriors: Behind the Betrayal of the Men Who Keep Us Free,” published earlier this year. Pam Bondi, Attorney General Trump tapped Pam Bondi, 59, to be attorney general after U.S. Rep. Matt Gaetz withdrew his name from consideration. She was Florida's first female attorney general, serving between 2011 and 2019. She also was on Trump’s legal team during his first impeachment trial in 2020. Considered a loyalist, she served as part of a Trump-allied outside group that helped lay the groundwork for his future administration called the America First Policy Institute. Bondi was among a group of Republicans who showed up to support Trump at his hush money criminal trial in New York that ended in May with a conviction on 34 felony counts. A fierce defender of Trump, she also frequently appears on Fox News and has been a critic of the criminal cases against him. Kristi Noem, Secretary of Homeland Security Trump picked South Dakota Gov. Kristi Noem, a well-known conservative who faced sharp criticism for telling a story in her memoir about shooting a rambunctious dog, to lead an agency crucial to the president-elect’s hardline immigration agenda. Noem used her two terms leading a tiny state to vault to a prominent position in Republican politics. South Dakota is usually a political afterthought. But during the COVID-19 pandemic, Noem did not order restrictions that other states had issued and instead declared her state “open for business.” Trump held a fireworks rally at Mount Rushmore in July 2020 in one of the first large gatherings of the pandemic. She takes over a department with a sprawling mission. In addition to key immigration agencies, the Department of Homeland Security oversees natural disaster response, the U.S. Secret Service, and Transportation Security Administration agents who work at airports. Doug Burgum, Secretary of the Interior The governor of North Dakota, who was once little-known outside his state, Burgum is a former Republican presidential primary contender who endorsed Trump, and spent months traveling to drum up support for him, after dropping out of the race. Burgum was a serious contender to be Trump’s vice presidential choice this summer. The two-term governor was seen as a possible pick because of his executive experience and business savvy. Burgum also has close ties to deep-pocketed energy industry CEOs. Trump made the announcement about Burgum joining his incoming administration while addressing a gala at his Mar-a-Lago club, and said a formal statement would be coming the following day. In comments to reporters before Trump took the stage, Burgum said that, in recent years, the power grid is deteriorating in many parts of the country, which he said could raise national security concerns but also drive up prices enough to increase inflation. “There's just a sense of urgency, and a sense of understanding in the Trump administration,” Burgum said. Robert F. Kennedy Jr., Secretary of Health and Human Services Robert F. Kennedy Jr. ran for president as a Democrat, than as an independent, and then endorsed Trump . He's the son of Democratic icon Robert Kennedy, who was assassinated during his own presidential campaign. The nomination of Kennedy to lead the Department of Health and Human Services alarmed people who are concerned about his record of spreading unfounded fears about vaccines . For example, he has long advanced the debunked idea that vaccines cause autism. Scott Bessent, Treasury Secretary Scott Bessent, 62, is a former George Soros money manager and an advocate for deficit reduction. He's the founder of hedge fund Key Square Capital Management, after having worked on-and-off for Soros Fund Management since 1991. If confirmed by the Senate, he would be the nation’s first openly gay treasury secretary. He told Bloomberg in August that he decided to join Trump’s campaign in part to attack the mounting U.S. national debt. That would include slashing government programs and other spending. “This election cycle is the last chance for the U.S. to grow our way out of this mountain of debt without becoming a sort of European-style socialist democracy,” he said then. Lori Chavez-DeRemer, Labor Secretary Oregon Republican U.S. Rep. Lori Chavez-DeRemer narrowly lost her reelection bid this month, but received strong backing from union members in her district. As a potential labor secretary, she would oversee the Labor Department’s workforce, its budget and put forth priorities that impact workers’ wages, health and safety, ability to unionize, and employer’s rights to fire employers, among other responsibilities. Chavez-DeRemer is one of few House Republicans to endorse the “Protecting the Right to Organize” or PRO Act would allow more workers to conduct organizing campaigns and would add penalties for companies that violate workers’ rights. The act would also weaken “right-to-work” laws that allow employees in more than half the states to avoid participating in or paying dues to unions that represent workers at their places of employment. Sean Duffy, Secretary of Transportation Sean Duffy is a former House member from Wisconsin who was one of Trump's most visible defenders on cable news. Duffy served in the House for nearly nine years, sitting on the Financial Services Committee and chairing the subcommittee on insurance and housing. He left Congress in 2019 for a TV career and has been the host of “The Bottom Line” on Fox Business. Before entering politics, Duffy was a reality TV star on MTV, where he met his wife, “Fox and Friends Weekend” co-host Rachel Campos-Duffy. They have nine children. Chris Wright, Secretary of Energy A campaign donor and CEO of Denver-based Liberty Energy, Write is a vocal advocate of oil and gas development, including fracking — a key pillar of Trump’s quest to achieve U.S. “energy dominance” in the global market. Wright also has been one of the industry’s loudest voices against efforts to fight climate change. He said the climate movement around the world is “collapsing under its own weight.” The Energy Department is responsible for advancing energy, environmental and nuclear security of the United States. Wright also won support from influential conservatives, including oil and gas tycoon Harold Hamm. Hamm, executive chairman of Oklahoma-based Continental Resources, a major shale oil company, is a longtime Trump supporter and adviser who played a key role on energy issues in Trump’s first term. Linda McMahon, Secretary of Education President-elect Donald Trump tapped billionaire professional wrestling mogul Linda McMahon to be secretary of the Education Department, tasked with overseeing an agency Trump promised to dismantle. McMahon led the Small Business Administration during Trump’s initial term from 2017 to 2019 and twice ran unsuccessfully as a Republican for the U.S. Senate in Connecticut. She’s seen as a relative unknown in education circles, though she expressed support for charter schools and school choice. She served on the Connecticut Board of Education for a year starting in 2009 and has spent years on the board of trustees for Sacred Heart University in Connecticut. Howard Lutnick, Secretary of Commerce Trump chose Howard Lutnick, head of brokerage and investment bank Cantor Fitzgerald and a cryptocurrency enthusiast, as his nominee for commerce secretary, a position in which he'd have a key role in carrying out Trump's plans to raise and enforce tariffs. Trump made the announcement Tuesday on his social media platform, Truth Social. Lutnick is a co-chair of Trump’s transition team, along with Linda McMahon, the former wrestling executive who previously led Trump’s Small Business Administration. Both are tasked with putting forward candidates for key roles in the next administration. The nomination would put Lutnick in charge of a sprawling Cabinet agency that is involved in funding new computer chip factories, imposing trade restrictions, releasing economic data and monitoring the weather. It is also a position in which connections to CEOs and the wider business community are crucial. Doug Collins, Secretary of Veterans Affairs Doug Collins is a former Republican congressman from Georgia who gained recognition for defending Trump during his first impeachment trial, which centered on U.S. assistance for Ukraine. Trump was impeached for urging Ukraine to investigate Joe Biden in 2019 during the Democratic presidential nomination, but he was acquitted by the Senate. Collins has also served in the armed forces himself and is currently a chaplain in the United States Air Force Reserve Command. "We must take care of our brave men and women in uniform, and Doug will be a great advocate for our Active Duty Servicemembers, Veterans, and Military Families to ensure they have the support they need," Trump said in a statement about nominating Collins to lead the Department of Veterans Affairs. Karoline Leavitt, White House press secretary Karoline Leavitt, 27, was Trump's campaign press secretary and currently a spokesperson for his transition. She would be the youngest White House press secretary in history. The White House press secretary typically serves as the public face of the administration and historically has held daily briefings for the press corps. Leavitt, a New Hampshire native, was a spokesperson for MAGA Inc., a super PAC supporting Trump, before joining his 2024 campaign. In 2022, she ran for Congress in New Hampshire, winning a 10-way Republican primary before losing to Democratic Rep. Chris Pappas. Leavitt worked in the White House press office during Trump's first term before she became communications director for New York Republican Rep. Elise Stefanik, Trump's choice for U.S. ambassador to the United Nations. Tulsi Gabbard, National Intelligence Director Former Hawaii Rep. Tulsi Gabbard has been tapped by Trump to be director of national intelligence, keeping with the trend to stock his Cabinet with loyal personalities rather than veteran professionals in their requisite fields. Gabbard, 43, was a Democratic House member who unsuccessfully sought the party's 2020 presidential nomination before leaving the party in 2022. She endorsed Trump in August and campaigned often with him this fall. “I know Tulsi will bring the fearless spirit that has defined her illustrious career to our Intelligence Community,” Trump said in a statement. Gabbard, who has served in the Army National Guard for more than two decades, deploying to Iraq and Kuwait, would come to the role as somewhat of an outsider compared to her predecessor. The current director, Avril Haines, was confirmed by the Senate in 2021 following several years in a number of top national security and intelligence positions. John Ratcliffe, Central Intelligence Agency Director Trump has picked John Ratcliffe, a former Texas congressman who served as director of national intelligence during his first administration, to be director of the Central Intelligence Agency in his next. Ratcliffe was director of national intelligence during the final year and a half of Trump's first term, leading the U.S. government's spy agencies during the coronavirus pandemic. “I look forward to John being the first person ever to serve in both of our Nation's highest Intelligence positions,” Trump said in a statement, calling him a “fearless fighter for the Constitutional Rights of all Americans” who would ensure “the Highest Levels of National Security, and PEACE THROUGH STRENGTH.” Lee Zeldin, Environmental Protection Agency Administrator Trump has chosen former New York Rep. Lee Zeldin to serve as his pick to lead the Environmental Protection Agency . Zeldin does not appear to have any experience in environmental issues, but is a longtime supporter of the former president. The 44-year-old former U.S. House member from New York wrote on X , “We will restore US energy dominance, revitalize our auto industry to bring back American jobs, and make the US the global leader of AI.” “We will do so while protecting access to clean air and water,” he added. During his campaign, Trump often attacked the Biden administration's promotion of electric vehicles, and incorrectly referring to a tax credit for EV purchases as a government mandate. Trump also often told his audiences during the campaign his administration would “Drill, baby, drill,” referring to his support for expanded petroleum exploration. In a statement, Trump said Zeldin “will ensure fair and swift deregulatory decisions that will be enacted in a way to unleash the power of American businesses, while at the same time maintaining the highest environmental standards, including the cleanest air and water on the planet.” Brendan Carr, Chairman of the Federal Communications Commission Trump has named Brendan Carr, the senior Republican on the Federal Communications Commission, as the new chairman of the agency tasked with regulating broadcasting, telecommunications and broadband. Carr is a longtime member of the commission and served previously as the FCC’s general counsel. He has been unanimously confirmed by the Senate three times and was nominated by both Trump and President Joe Biden to the commission. Carr made past appearances on “Fox News Channel," including when he decried Democratic Vice President Kamala Harris' pre-Election Day appearance on “Saturday Night Live.” He wrote an op-ed last month defending a satellite company owned by Trump supporter Elon Musk. Scott Turner, Housing and Urban Development Scott Turner is a former NFL player and White House aide. He ran the White House Opportunity and Revitalization Council during Trump’s first term in office. Trump, in a statement, credited Turner, the highest-ranking Black person he’s yet selected for his administration, with “helping to lead an Unprecedented Effort that Transformed our Country’s most distressed communities.” Elise Stefanik, Ambassador to the United Nations Rep. Elise Stefanik is a representative from New York and one of Trump's staunchest defenders going back to his first impeachment. Elected to the House in 2014, Stefanik was selected by her GOP House colleagues as House Republican Conference chair in 2021, when former Wyoming Rep. Liz Cheney was removed from the post after publicly criticizing Trump for falsely claiming he won the 2020 election. Stefanik, 40, has served in that role ever since as the third-ranking member of House leadership. Stefanik’s questioning of university presidents over antisemitism on their campuses helped lead to two of those presidents resigning, further raising her national profile. If confirmed, she would represent American interests at the U.N. as Trump vows to end the war waged by Russia against Ukraine begun in 2022. He has also called for peace as Israel continues its offensive against Hamas in Gaza and its invasion of Lebanon to target Hezbollah. Matt Whitaker, Ambassador to NATO President-elect Donald Trump says he's chosen former acting Attorney General Matt Whitaker to serve as U.S. ambassador to NATO. Trump has expressed skepticism about the Western military alliance for years. Trump said in a statement Wednesday that Whitaker is “a strong warrior and loyal Patriot” who “will ensure the United States’ interests are advanced and defended” and “strengthen relationships with our NATO Allies, and stand firm in the face of threats to Peace and Stability.” The choice of Whitaker as the nation’s representative to the North Atlantic Treaty Organization is an unusual one, given his background is as a lawyer and not in foreign policy. Mike Huckabee, Ambassador to Israel Trump will nominate former Arkansas Gov. Mike Huckabee to be ambassador to Israel. Huckabee is a staunch defender of Israel and his intended nomination comes as Trump has promised to align U.S. foreign policy more closely with Israel's interests as it wages wars against the Iran-backed Hamas and Hezbollah. “He loves Israel, and likewise the people of Israel love him,” Trump said in a statement. “Mike will work tirelessly to bring about peace in the Middle East.” Huckabee, who ran unsuccessfully for the Republican presidential nomination in 2008 and 2016, has been a popular figure among evangelical Christian conservatives, many of whom support Israel due to Old Testament writings that Jews are God’s chosen people and that Israel is their rightful homeland. Trump has been praised by some in this important Republican voting bloc for moving the U.S. embassy in Israel from Tel Aviv to Jerusalem. Steven Witkoff, Special Envoy to the Middle East Trump on Tuesday named real estate investor Steven Witkoff to be special envoy to the Middle East. The 67-year-old Witkoff is the president-elect's golf partner and was golfing with him at Trump's club in West Palm Beach, Florida, on Sept. 15, when the former president was the target of a second attempted assassination. Witkoff “is a Highly Respected Leader in Business and Philanthropy,” Trump said of Witkoff in a statement. “Steve will be an unrelenting Voice for PEACE, and make us all proud." Trump also named Witkoff co-chair, with former Georgia Sen. Kelly Loeffler, of his inaugural committee. Mike Waltz, National Security Adviser Trump asked Rep. Michael Waltz, R-Fla., a retired Army National Guard officer and war veteran, to be his national security adviser, Trump announced in a statement Tuesday. The move puts Waltz in the middle of national security crises, ranging from efforts to provide weapons to Ukraine and worries about the growing alliance between Russia and North Korea to the persistent attacks in the Middle East by Iran proxies and the push for a cease-fire between Israel and Hamas and Hezbollah. “Mike has been a strong champion of my America First Foreign Policy agenda,” Trump's statement said, "and will be a tremendous champion of our pursuit of Peace through Strength!” Waltz is a three-term GOP congressman from east-central Florida. He served multiple tours in Afghanistan and also worked in the Pentagon as a policy adviser when Donald Rumsfeld and Robert Gates were defense chiefs. He is considered hawkish on China, and called for a U.S. boycott of the 2022 Winter Olympics in Beijing due to its involvement in the origin of COVID-19 and its mistreatment of the minority Muslim Uighur population. Stephen Miller, Deputy Chief of Staff for Policy Stephen Miller, an immigration hardliner , was a vocal spokesperson during the presidential campaign for Trump's priority of mass deportations. The 39-year-old was a senior adviser during Trump's first administration. Miller has been a central figure in some of Trump's policy decisions, notably his move to separate thousands of immigrant families. Trump argued throughout the campaign that the nation's economic, national security and social priorities could be met by deporting people who are in the United States illegally. Since Trump left office in 2021, Miller has served as the president of America First Legal, an organization made up of former Trump advisers aimed at challenging the Biden administration, media companies, universities and others over issues such as free speech and national security. Tom Homan, ‘Border Czar’ Thomas Homan, 62, has been tasked with Trump’s top priority of carrying out the largest deportation operation in the nation’s history. Homan, who served under Trump in his first administration leading U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement, was widely expected to be offered a position related to the border, an issue Trump made central to his campaign. Though Homan has insisted such a massive undertaking would be humane, he has long been a loyal supporter of Trump's policy proposals, suggesting at a July conference in Washington that he would be willing to "run the biggest deportation operation this country’s ever seen.” Democrats have criticized Homan for his defending Trump's “zero tolerance” policy on border crossings during his first administration, which led to the separation of thousands of parents and children seeking asylum at the border. Dr. Mehmet Oz, Centers for Medicaid and Medicare Services administrator Dr. Mehmet Oz, 64, is a former heart surgeon who hosted “The Dr. Oz Show,” a long-running daytime television talk show. He ran unsuccessfully for the U.S. Senate as the Republican nominee in 2022 and is an outspoken supporter of Trump, who endorsed Oz's bid for elected office. Elon Musk and Vivek Ramaswamy to advise White House on government efficiency Elon Musk, left, and Vivek Ramaswamy speak before Republican presidential nominee former President Donald Trump at an Oct. 27 campaign rally at Madison Square Garden in New York. Trump on Tuesday said Musk and former Republican presidential candidate Ramaswamy will lead a new “Department of Government Efficiency" — which is not, despite the name, a government agency. The acronym “DOGE” is a nod to Musk's favorite cryptocurrency, dogecoin. Trump said Musk and Ramaswamy will work from outside the government to offer the White House “advice and guidance” and will partner with the Office of Management and Budget to “drive large scale structural reform, and create an entrepreneurial approach to Government never seen before.” He added the move would shock government systems. It's not clear how the organization will operate. Musk, owner of X and CEO of Tesla and SpaceX, has been a constant presence at Mar-a-Lago since Trump won the presidential election. Ramaswamy suspended his campaign in January and threw his support behind Trump. Trump said the two will “pave the way for my Administration to dismantle Government Bureaucracy, slash excess regulations, cut wasteful expenditures, and restructure Federal Agencies.” Russell Vought, Office of Management and Budget Russell Vought held the position during Trump’s first presidency. After Trump’s initial term ended, Vought founded the Center for Renewing America, a think tank that describes its mission as “renew a consensus of America as a nation under God.” Vought was closely involved with Project 2025, a conservative blueprint for Trump’s second term that he tried to distance himself from during the campaign. Vought has also previously worked as the executive and budget director for the Republican Study Committee, a caucus for conservative House Republicans. He also worked at Heritage Action, the political group tied to The Heritage Foundation, a conservative think tank. Additional selections to the incoming White House Scavino, whom Trump's transition referred to in a statement as one of “Trump's longest serving and most trusted aides,” was a senior adviser to Trump's 2024 campaign, as well as his 2016 and 2020 campaigns. He will be deputy chief of staff and assistant to the president. Scavino had run Trump's social media profile in the White House during his first administration. He was also held in contempt of Congress in 2022 after a month-long refusal to comply with a subpoena from the House committee’s investigation into the Jan. 6, 2021, attack on the U.S. Capitol. Blair was political director for Trump's 2024 campaign and for the Republican National Committee. He will be deputy chief of staff for legislative, political and public affairs and assistant to the president. Blair was key to Trump's economic messaging during his winning White House comeback campaign this year, a driving force behind the candidate's “Trump can fix it” slogan and his query to audiences this fall if they were better off than four years ago. Budowich is a veteran Trump campaign aide who launched and directed Make America Great Again, Inc., a super PAC that supported Trump's 2024 campaign. He will be deputy chief of staff for communications and personnel and assistant to the president. Budowich also had served as a spokesman for Trump after his presidency. McGinley was White House Cabinet secretary during Trump's first administration, and was outside legal counsel for the Republican National Committee's election integrity effort during the 2024 campaign. In a statement, Trump called McGinley “a smart and tenacious lawyer who will help me advance our America First agenda, while fighting for election integrity and against the weaponization of law enforcement.” Stay up-to-date on the latest in local and national government and political topics with our newsletter.Preview: Hoffenheim vs. RB Leipzig - prediction, team news, lineupsMedia Invited to Speak to NASA Ames Experts – Celebrating 85 Years

West LA Computer Expert: Trusted Provider of PC and Network Support in West Los Angeles 12-03-2024 10:40 PM CET | Business, Economy, Finances, Banking & Insurance Press release from: Getnews / PR Agency: Press Ranger Offering Comprehensive Computer Repair and Website Design Services West LA Computer Expert, a highly acclaimed 5-star company, is proud to announce its readiness to tackle all types of PC and network support issues for residents and businesses in the West Los Angeles area. Known for its same-day computer repair and support services, the company continues to expand its offerings to meet the evolving needs of its clientele. With a reputation built on expertise, responsiveness, and fair pricing, West LA Computer Expert has become a trusted name in the technology sector. Customers consistently praise the owner, Dan, for his patience and helpfulness, underscoring the company's commitment to delivering top-notch customer service. The business's emphasis on quick turnaround times and extended daily operating hours ensures that clients receive the support they need, precisely when they need it. In addition to its renowned computer repair services, West LA Computer Expert is excited to offer website design and maintenance services for both personal and business needs. This expansion allows clients to benefit from a seamless digital experience, whether they require a simple personal website or a complex business platform. "At West LA Computer Expert, we understand the importance of reliable technology in today's fast-paced world. Our team is dedicated to providing exceptional service and support to ensure our clients' systems run smoothly and efficiently," said Daniel Zivetz, CEO of West LA Computer Expert. West LA Computer Expert's website further reinforces its dedication to customer satisfaction, offering a user-friendly interface and comprehensive information about the services available. The company's commitment to excellence is evident in every aspect of its operations, from the initial consultation to the final resolution of any technical issue. As technology continues to advance, West LA Computer Expert remains at the forefront, ready to assist with any challenges that may arise. Whether it's removing a stubborn virus, building a custom computer, or designing a cutting-edge website, the company's skilled professionals are equipped to handle it all. For those in the West Los Angeles area seeking reliable and efficient computer and network support, West LA Computer Expert stands as a beacon of trust and expertise. With a proven track record and a dedication to customer satisfaction, the company is poised to meet the demands of an ever-changing technological landscape. Media Contact Company Name: West LA Computer Expert Contact Person: Daniel Zivetz Email: Send Email [ http://www.universalpressrelease.com/?pr=west-la-computer-expert-trusted-provider-of-pc-and-network-support-in-west-los-angeles ] Country: United States Website: https://www.westlacomputerexpert.tech This release was published on openPR.

Mayfield throws 5 TD passes and Bucs keep playoff, NFC South hopes alive with 48-14 rout of PanthersNEW YORK--(BUSINESS WIRE)--Dec 13, 2024-- On December 10, 2024, Athena Technology Acquisition Corp. II (the “Company”) received a letter from the NYSE American LLC (“NYSE American” or the “Exchange”) stating that the staff of NYSE Regulation has determined to commence proceedings to delist the Company’s class A common stock, units, and redeemable warrants (collectively, the “Company Securities”), pursuant to Sections 119(b) and 119(f) of the NYSE American Company Guide because the Company failed to consummate a business combination within 36 months of the effectiveness of its initial public offering registration statement, or such shorter period that the Company specified in its registration statement. As a result of the determination, trading of the Company Securities on NYSE American has been suspended. As indicated in the letter from NYSE American, the Company has a right to a review of the delisting determination by the Listings Qualifications Panel of the Committee for Review of the Board of Directors of the Exchange, provided that the Company submits a written request for such review no later than December 17, 2024. The Company is working towards consummating its previously announced business combination with Ace Green Recycling, Inc. If the Company Securities are delisted from NYSE American, the Company intends to seek a listing of the Company Securities on The Nasdaq Stock Market LLC in connection with the consummation of the Company’s proposed initial business combination. About Athena Technology Acquisition Corp. II Athena Technology Acquisition Corp. II (NYSE American: ATEK.U, ATEK, ATEK WS), incorporated in Delaware, is a special purpose acquisition company incorporated for the purpose of effecting a merger, capital stock exchange, asset acquisition, stock purchase, reorganization or similar business combination with one or more businesses or entities. ATEK is the third SPAC founded by Isabelle Freidheim, who also serves as its Chief Executive Officer, with Kirthiga Reddy as President and Jennifer Calabrese as Chief Financial Officer. Forward-Looking Statements Certain statements made in this press release are not historical facts but may be considered “forward-looking statements” within the meaning of Section 27A of the Securities Act of 1933, as amended, Section 21E of the Securities Exchange Act of 1934, as amended, and the “safe harbor” provisions under the Private Securities Litigation Reform Act of 1995. Forward-looking statements generally are accompanied by words such as “believe,” “may,” “will,” “estimate,” “continue,” “anticipate,” “intend,” “expect,” “should,” “would,” “plan,” “predict,” “potential,” “seem,” “seek,” “future,” “outlook,” “intend,” or continue or the negatives of these terms or variations of them or similar terminology or expressions that predict or indicate future events or trends or that are not statements of historical matters. These statements are based on the current expectations of the Company’s management and are not predictions of actual performance. Such statements may include, but are not limited to, statements regarding the Company’s ability to consummate its previously announced business combination and to list the Company Securities on Nasdaq in connection with the consummation of the proposed business combination. These forward-looking statements are provided for illustrative purposes only and are not intended to serve as, and must not be relied on, by any investor as a guarantee, an assurance, a prediction or a definitive statement of fact or probability. Actual events and circumstances are difficult or impossible to predict and will differ from assumptions. Many actual events and circumstances are beyond the control of the Company. These statements are subject to a number of risks and uncertainties, and actual results may differ materially. These risks and uncertainties include, but are not limited to: general economic, political and business conditions; the number of redemption requests made by the Company’s stockholders in connection with a potential business combination; the outcome of any legal proceedings that may be instituted against the Company; the risk that the approval of the Company’s stockholders for a potential transaction is not obtained; expectations related to the timing of a potential business combination; failure to realize the anticipated benefits of a business combination; the risk that a business combination may not be completed by the Company’s business combination deadline; costs related to a business combination; and other risks that will be detailed from time to time in filings with the Securities and Exchange Commission, including those risks discussed under the heading “Risk Factors” in the Company’s Annual Report on Form 10-K for the year ended December 31, 2023 filed with the SEC on September 27, 2024 and in subsequently filed Quarterly Reports on Form 10-Q. The foregoing list of risk factors is not exhaustive. There may be additional risks that could also cause actual results to differ from those contained in these forward-looking statements. In addition, forward-looking statements provide the Company’s expectations, plans or forecasts of future events and views as of the date of this press release. And while the Company may elect to update these forward-looking statements in the future, the Company specifically disclaims any obligation to do so, except as required by law. These forward-looking statements should not be relied upon as representing the Company’s assessments as of any date subsequent to the date of this press release. Accordingly, undue reliance should not be placed upon the forward-looking statements. Nothing herein should be regarded as a representation by any person that the forward-looking statements set forth herein will be achieved or that the results of such forward-looking statements will be achieved. View source version on businesswire.com : https://www.businesswire.com/news/home/20241213050198/en/ CONTACT: Bevel PR Athena@bevelpr.com KEYWORD: NEW YORK UNITED STATES NORTH AMERICA INDUSTRY KEYWORD: BANKING PROFESSIONAL SERVICES FINANCE SOURCE: Athena Technology Acquisition Corp. II Copyright Business Wire 2024. PUB: 12/13/2024 03:56 PM/DISC: 12/13/2024 03:57 PM http://www.businesswire.com/news/home/20241213050198/enderby cockfighting 。

Indian-American Kash Patel's Rise From Public Defender To FBI DirectorWINNIPEG — Mike O’Shea stood in front of reporters Friday and kept his cool while answering questions about the Winnipeg Blue Bombers’ 41-24 Grey Cup loss to the Toronto Argonauts last weekend. The head coach was asked if he made a mistake keeping injured quarterback Zach Collaros in the game, why star running back Brady Oliveira didn’t get the ball more and whether a flawed game plan led to Winnipeg’s third consecutive championship loss. “As an entire team, we didn’t have our best game,” O’Shea said in his end-of-the-season press conference. “We didn’t lack effort. We didn’t lack desire. “We didn’t have our best game as an entire team. Three phases. Coaches — everybody. Me especially.” O’Shea admitted he missed calling a timeout in the fourth quarter when there were only 11 Blue Bombers on the field instead of 12. “I don't get the count over the headset as quickly as I probably need to, we can't count. As I'm seeing a guy come off, that's the right time for that timeout that I should have used,” O’Shea said. He also said he should have used a challenge flag earlier on a play he didn’t identify, and checked on his players more during the game. But hindsight wouldn’t change his decision to put Collaros back in the game after the index finger on his throwing hand was cut deep when it hit a defender’s helmet. “He absolutely deserves every opportunity to lead this team,” O’Shea said. “From what I saw and from chatting with him very briefly, I felt really comfortable with that. I didn't think it was going to be easy, but I thought it's Zach, so...” The injury to Collaros’s finger happened late in the third quarter when the Blue Bombers were trailing the Argonauts 17-10. The veteran left the game and returned with a bandaged finger that needed five stitches and a numbing agent. He wore a glove on the hand and told reporters earlier this week it was difficult to grip the ball. Collaros said he warned receivers in the huddle his throws might not have the usual zip and they should be prepared to come back for the ball. “(I) saw him delivering the ball on the sidelines. Then you see him deliver a couple balls out there and some of them are pretty damn good, right?” O’Shea said. “The awareness of Zach to say to the receivers, ‘hey, work a little harder for me,’ I think it’s natural and what should be said. I think they already know that.” When Collaros re-entered the game, he threw interceptions in back-to-back series. “On one of them he got rid of the ball and I thought it was a good ball and the defensive player made a good play,” O’Shea said of the picks. “One slipped right out of his hand or I don't know if it got tipped or not. You've got to give him that opportunity.” Oliveira was questioning his lack of opportunities in the game when he spoke to reporters earlier in the week. The CFL’s newly minted most outstanding player and top Canadian only had 11 carries for 84 yards and one late touchdown. About 17 or 18 run plays were called, O’Shea said. “One starts off with a procedure penalty in the first and then six of those get pulled because there's X number of guys in the box or the read says this is not a run play anymore, this is now a pass play,” he said. “You call that many runs and then a pile of them get pulled because of the structure of the defence. That's OK with me at that point.” O’Shea said Bombers offensive co-ordinator Buck Pierce has been granted permission to talk to CFL teams with head-coaching job openings. The B.C. Lions are reportedly interested in Pierce. The Edmonton Elks also have a vacant head coach spot. If Pierce doesn’t become a head coach, O’Shea said he wants him to stay in Winnipeg. He believes Pierce had the offence “extremely well-prepared” for the Grey Cup. “I’m never going to question the play-calling, and I think what’s going on here is we’re questioning,” O’Shea said. “We’re trying to find blame and fault when that’s nowhere in our DNA of how we built this eight, nine, 10 years ago. We’re starting to try and find all these answers and question all these people that were 0-4 and 2-6 and then 10-1, and we just didn’t play our best game.” The Bombers finished 11-7 and claimed the West Division title that earned them a fifth consecutive trip to the Grey Cup. They won the championship in 2019 and ’21, but lost 28-24 to the Montreal Alouettes last year and 24-23 to Toronto in 2023. “We're the same group that got there, that went on a phenomenal run after a bad start, and a bad start for a lot of reasons that we overcame,” O’Shea said. “I just, I don't question any of it. I look for answers, too. I watch the film over and over and over again. And look to already make notes on how we're going to be better, how we're going to get back there again.” This report by The Canadian Press was first published Nov. 22, 2024. Judy Owen, The Canadian Press

“Compassion.” “Moral leadership. “Devoted.” Southern California’s lawmakers on both sides of the aisle r emembered former President Jimmy Carter’s public service — and his humanity — as news of his death reverberated throughout the political world Sunday afternoon, Dec. 29. Carter, the 39th president, was 100 years old. Rep. Lou Correa, D-Santa Ana, cast his first presidential ballot for Carter after he had turned 18, the congressman said on social media. “President Jimmy Carter was a veteran, a military academy graduate and a humble George peanut farmer,” said Correa. “He led this nation through difficult times. Thank you, President Carter.” “President Carter was a man of rare character — whose beliefs ran true and ran deep, whose moral compass never wavered,” Gov. Gavin Newsom said in a statement. “He saw the common humanity in all of us, building bridges between people of different faiths and factions abroad while working to meet the needs of those at home. Despite daunting challenges and trying times, his bright energy and spirit never faltered.” “President Carter’s candor and compassion, moral leadership and sense of duty set a standard we all should aspire to,” the Democratic governor added. “His enduring example reminds us that we can still find common ground despite our differences.” Rep. Young Kim, a Republican whose district spans Orange, Riverside and San Bernardino counties, said in a social media post that her “heart is with (Carter’s) loved ones.” “President Carter devoted his life to serving the American people, whether in public service or through his charity and humanitarian work,” Kim said. Carter was the longest-living American president. Rep. Mike Garcia, R- Santa Clarita : “President Jimmy Carter’s passing is a loss for our nation. From his days as a midshipman at the Naval Academy to his service as our 39th president, he embodied leadership, honor, and compassion. Keeping the Carter family in my prayers tonight.” Sen. Adam Schiff : President Jimmy Carter leaves a legacy unlike any other. Ceaseless in his service, unbending in his dignity and revered for his commitment to our common humanity. He fought the good fight and kept the faith — and now he has finished his race. May his memory be an inspiration.” Rep. Norma Torres, D-Ontario : “Today, we mourn President Jimmy Carter, a leader of faith, compassion and service. His legacy of humanity and hope will endure. My thoughts are with the Carter family.” Former L.A. Mayor Antonio Villaraigosa : “Jimmy Carter was a man of character and integrity whose lifelong service to the greater good was most evident when he left office. His tireless advocacy on behalf of the unhoused was something I was fortunate enough to witness firsthand and a remarkable feature of a humanitarian who never stopped believing in the dignity of our neighbors. May we continue the legacy of President Carter through acts of selfless service to others to never stop uplifting our community.” This is a breaking news story. Check back for updates.

Jimmy Carter: Many evolutions for a centenarian ‘citizen of the world’China’s firms are taking flight, worrying its rulers

Pete Hegseth, President-elect Donald Trump’s choice to be defense secretary, is joined by his wife Jennifer Rauchet as he speaks with reporters after meeting with Sen. Susan Collins, R-Maine, on Capitol Hill, Wednesday, Dec. 11, 2024, in Washington. (AP Photo/Mark Schiefelbein) Sen. Susan Collins, R-Maine, speaks with reporters after meeting with Pete Hegseth, President-elect Donald Trump’s choice to be defense secretary, on Capitol Hill, Wednesday, Dec. 11, 2024, in Washington. (AP Photo/Mark Schiefelbein) Pete Hegseth, President-elect Donald Trump’s choice to be defense secretary, arrives for a meeting with Sen. Bill Cassidy, R-La., on Capitol Hill, Wednesday, Dec. 11, 2024, in Washington. (AP Photo/Mark Schiefelbein) Pete Hegseth, President-elect Donald Trump’s choice to be defense secretary, is joined by his wife Jennifer Rauchet as he speaks with reporters after meeting with Sen. Susan Collins, R-Maine, on Capitol Hill, Wednesday, Dec. 11, 2024, in Washington. (AP Photo/Mark Schiefelbein) By MARY CLARE JALONICK and MATT BROWN WASHINGTON (AP) — Pete Hegseth, President-elect Donald Trump’s nominee to lead the Defense Department, said he had a “wonderful conversation” with Maine Sen. Susan Collins on Wednesday as he pushed to win enough votes for confirmation. He said he will not back down after allegations of excessive drinking and sexual misconduct. Related Articles National Politics | Donald Trump will ring the New York Stock Exchange bell. It’ll be a first for him National Politics | The Trump and Biden teams insist they’re working hand in glove on foreign crises National Politics | ‘You don’t know what’s next.’ International students scramble ahead of Trump inauguration National Politics | Trump is threatening to raise tariffs again. Here’s how China plans to fight back National Politics | Trump won’t be able to save the struggling US beef industry Collins said after the hourlong meeting that she questioned Hegseth about the allegations amid reports of drinking and the revelation that he made a settlement payment after being accused of a sexual assault that he denies. She said she had a “good, substantive” discussion with Hegseth and “covered a wide range of topics,” including sexual assault in the military, Ukraine and NATO. But she said she would wait until a hearing, and notably a background check, to make a decision. “I asked virtually every question under the sun,” Collins told reporters as she left her office after the meeting. “I pressed him both on his position on military issues as well as the allegations against him, so I don’t think there was anything that we did not cover.” The meeting with Collins was closely watched as she is seen as more likely than most of her Republican Senate colleagues to vote against some of Trump’s Cabinet picks. She and Alaska Sen. Lisa Murkowski, a fellow moderate Republican, did not shy from opposing Trump in his first term when they wanted to do so and sometimes supported President Joe Biden’s nominees for the judicial and executive branches. And Hegseth, an infantry combat veteran and former “Fox & Friends” weekend host, is working to gain as many votes as he can as some senators have expressed concerns about his personal history and lack of management experience. “I’m certainly not going to assume anything about where the senator stands,” Hegseth said as he left Collins’ office. “This is a process that we respect and appreciate. And we hope, in time, overall, when we get through that committee and to the floor that we can earn her support.” Hegseth met with Murkowski on Tuesday. He has also been meeting repeatedly with Iowa Sen. Joni Ernst, a military veteran who has said she is a survivor of sexual assault and has spent time in the Senate working on improving how attacks are reported and prosecuted within the ranks. On Monday, Ernst said after a meeting with him that he had committed to selecting a senior official to prioritize those goals. Republicans will have a 53-49 majority next year, meaning Trump cannot lose more than three votes on any of his nominees. It is so far unclear whether Hegseth will have enough support, but Trump has stepped up his pressure on senators in the last week. “Pete is a WINNER, and there is nothing that can be done to change that!!!” Trump posted on his social media platform last week.

I’ve reviewed the best data recovery software you can buy , which often require a costly subscription. However, there are some very good free apps that can help restore your missing files or photos. CCleaner’s Recuva and DMDE are among the best free data recovery apps that let you preview and restore a wide variety of files at no cost. I’ll focus on the free versions, but also cover the more powerful paid apps. Specs Pricing tiers Recuva is a full-featured free data recovery app with only minor limitations. There’s no customer service for free users. The app can’t read virtual drives and you have to check for updates manually. Beyond that, you can use Recuva for free for as long as you like on any Windows computer. There’s not a macOS or Linux version of Recuva and it doesn’t work on mobile devices. Leading solutions like Stellar Data Recovery restrict free file restoration to 1 GB, which might be enough for lots of documents and several photos. However, the free version might not retrieve all your photos and videos since they take up more space. For $25 annually, you can install Recuva Professional on up to three computers and contact support for technical assistance. If you’re unfamiliar with data recovery software and drive technology and formats, technical support could be very important. DMDE also has a free version that’s just as powerful as the paid app. However, it does have some restrictions. You can restore one folder and 4,000 files at a time. Unless you dump all you photos and videos in a single folder or store a huge number of files in one place, you’ll need the paid version. Since only one folder can be restored with the free app, you’ll probably need multiple scans to get back missing files. An annual subscription to DMDE Express costs $20. There’s also a lifetime plan call DMDE Standard that costs just $48. If you subscribe to DMDE Express for more than two years, DMDE Standard is a better bargain. DMDE also has professional plans, starting at $95, that let you install the app on more computers. Features Recuva has a wizard to guide you through data recovery. You select the type of files to restore, but the option of all files seems to make the most sense. Then you get to choose the drive or let the app scan all drives. That can take a long time, so it’s best to select the drive you suspect has missing files. When you start a scan, the app immediately starts listing files that Windows File Explorer won’t show. As the scan continues, more details appear including filename, the folder it’s in, the modification date, size, and more. Recuva also estimates the recoverability of each file and optionally shows a preview. Those are the most valuable details. If image previews look correct and files are rated with excellent recoverability, the app should be able to restore them. In my review of Recuva Professional , I found it to be useful in recovering data from my external hard disk drive (HDD) and my thumb drive. It found 158 of 163 files in the HDD test, which is good, but not great. DMDE is easy to get started with, but some features can be a little confusing. It’s a much more technical app with powerful and dangerous features like disk editing. It’s wise to make sure you understand what will happen before making a change. Basic operation is straightforward. You select a drive, start a scan, and watch the file list appear. DMDE shows the folders in a left sidebar and files to the right. It fills in the filename, size, modification date, and shows an optional preview. The preview is important since DMDE doesn’t give a recoverability estimate. In my review, DMDE Free restored all 55 files in my folder, but none of the images in subfolders. I’d need the paid version to get everything in one pass. As a workaround, I switched to raw recovery, which ignores my folder structure and groups restored files by type. With this trick, I got 162 of 165 files, but with randomly generated numeric filenames. The paid version of DMDE managed to restore all my HDD files, but the first letter of each folder was replaced with an underscore “_” symbol. Solid-state drive (SSD) recovery is almost impossible and neither app could restore a single file in these tests. EaseUS Data Recovery Wizard Pro is only app I’ve tested that has successfully undeleted SSD files, which might have been due to lucky timing. Support Recuva has a very limited help center and only offers email support to subscribers. The app has been around for decades, so your best bet is a web search if you need help with the free version. DMDE doesn’t restrict help to paying customers, giving it an edge against Recuva. Support is via email, so it could take up to 24 hours to get a reply. DMDE’s resource center features tutorials, a manual, and an FAQ so you can get answers faster. Popular data recovery apps like Disk Drill Pro offer live chat support, but cost more. Privacy and security There’s no need to upload data to recover files, so your files will remain private. However, if you email support or subscribe, your email address and financial information will be on record. That means cybersecurity is worth considering. I couldn’t find any record of a data breach at DMDE, but the developer of Recuva, CCleaner has had some issues. CCleaner has been hit by three major data breaches , one as recent as 2023. Which data recovery app is right for you? The free versions of Recuva and DMDE are both effective with HDD file recovery. While DMDE restored more data in my tests, it requires multiple passes to get back folders. Recuva is easier to use, but couldn’t find as many missing files. While you could download and run both, HDD scans can be time-consuming, so it’s better to pick one. If you absolutely can’t pay to restore missing files, Recuva has the better free app. However, DMDE’s $20 and Recuva’s $25 annual subscription prices are incredibly affordable. If you’re going to the trouble of scanning and restoring files, it’s worth saving yourself time and effort at such a low cost. If your photos, videos, documents, and other files are worth $20, I’d recommend DMDE Express over Recuva Professional. If you anticipate needing to recover files in the future, a one-time purchase of DMDE Standard costs just $48 to use it on your Windows PC, Mac, or Linux computer forever. That’s why DMDE is high on our list of the best data recovery software . If you need to restore data lost on mobile devices, check out our guides to the best iPhone data recovery apps and Android data recovery apps .

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

Feds consider additional Columbia River environmental guidelines amid political uncertaintyArticle content Every year, we compile a list of the most impactful food stories to highlight the trends, challenges, and opportunities shaping Canada’s agri-food sector. From policy changes and economic pressures to technological advancements and consumer-driven shifts, these stories reflect the complexities of our food system and its broader societal implications. 2024 was no exception, offering a mix of triumphs and setbacks that defined the year for farmers, consumers, and businesses. As always, this list aims to provide a balanced perspective on the events that mattered most in the agri-food world, helping us understand where we’ve been and are headed. Enjoy! 10. The Loblaw boycott that wasn’t We were uncertain about including this story on the list since it never truly materialized. Despite significant online momentum, particularly on Reddit, the boycott, which initially targeted Canadian grocers like Loblaw, Sobeys, and Metro — while excluding American giants such as Walmart and Costco — failed to gain traction. Initially declared as a one-month protest starting May 1, it was later announced as indefinite. However, the boycott’s impact was negligible, as reflected in Loblaw’s shares soaring to $195—a remarkable 27% increase since the campaign’s launch. While the financial outcome left Loblaw unscathed, the campaign sparked important discussions around “greedflation,” corporate ethics, and the public image of Canada’s major grocers. The controversy exposed a critical gap in consumer confidence and intensified calls for greater transparency in pricing and competition practices. Addressing these issues will be essential for rebuilding trust and fostering a more equitable and competitive grocery landscape in the future. Recommended video 9. Capital gains tax changes impacting farmers The June 25 increase in the capital gains inclusion rate for profits exceeding $250,000 has alarmed the agricultural sector. Farmers, often asset-rich but cash-poor, face a 30% tax hike on average, according to the Grain Growers of Canada. With Canada already losing 700–1,000 farms annually, these changes exacerbate generational succession challenges and accelerate industry consolidation. Although the lifetime capital gains exemption has increased to $1.25 million, the higher tax rate disproportionately affects family-owned farms, posing a threat to the future of Canadian agriculture. 8. Endorsement of Grocer Code of Conduct by the “Big Five” The endorsement of the Grocer Code of Conduct by Canada’s largest grocers marked a milestone in addressing power imbalances between retailers and suppliers. By fostering fairer negotiations and reducing price volatility, the code is expected to enhance transparency and stabilize the food supply chain. However, questions remain about enforcement, and grocers must demonstrate their commitment to rebuilding consumer trust through fair practices. 7. Rise of GLP-1 drugs Like Ozempic The rise of GLP-1 drugs, such as Ozempic, marks a transformative moment in the pharmaceutical and health sectors, with the potential to impact millions worldwide. Initially developed for managing Type 2 diabetes, these drugs have gained widespread recognition for their effectiveness in promoting weight loss by suppressing appetite and slowing digestion. With global obesity rates continuing to rise, medications like Ozempic are being touted as game-changers, with experts predicting widespread adoption in the coming years. A pivotal moment in this shift occurred in February when Oprah Winfrey stepped down from the board of Weight Watchers, signalling a potential decline in traditional weight-loss programs as pharmaceutical solutions gain traction. While these drugs offer significant benefits, including improved metabolic health and reduced risks of obesity-related diseases, they also raise critical concerns. Affordability, long-term safety, and equitable access remain pressing issues. Additionally, the growing demand prompts questions about their impact on health-care systems and evolving societal attitudes toward weight loss and wellness. 6. The GST holiday and taxes on food debate Ottawa’s temporary GST/HST holiday on food and restaurant items sparked significant debate. While consumers will see minimal savings — roughly $5 at grocery stores — restaurants will benefit more, with families saving $60–$90. However, the logistical burden on retailers and regional disparities in tax rates and the possibility of opportunity pricing drew criticism. A permanent removal of GST on food would have been a more effective solution, fostering affordability without the instability of short-term policies. 5. Record food recalls and safety alerts Food recalls reached their fourth-highest level in 2024, driven by high-profile incidents involving cucumbers, bakery products, and plant-based beverages like Silk and Great Value brands. Tragically, these recalls were linked to three fatalities, emphasizing the importance of robust safety measures. This story sheds light on the ongoing challenges of managing food safety in complex supply chains, calling for stronger oversight and transparency in the agri-food industry. 4. Railway, grain, and port disruptions Labour disputes in Canada’s logistics sector disrupted the nation’s food supply chain in 2024, damaging its international reputation. With railways, ports, and other infrastructure under constant strain, these disruptions highlighted the critical importance of safeguarding the backbone of the Canadian economy. While protecting workers’ rights is vital, striking a balance to ensure uninterrupted supply chains is equally necessary. The year underscored the need for proactive labour policies to avoid holding the economy — and the food system — hostage. 3. Potential Tariffs with the Return of Donald Trump The return of Donald Trump to the U.S. presidency reignited fears of economic disruption, particularly in Canada’s agri-food sector, which sends 60% of its agri-food exports — $40 billion worth — south of the border. Proposed tariffs of up to 25% would devastate Canadian producers, already grappling with slim margins and the carbon tax. Ottawa faced mounting pressure to develop a long-term strategy to mitigate these risks and strengthen the agri-food sector’s competitiveness in an increasingly protectionist global landscape. 2. Carbon tax debate on food prices Carbon pricing remains a divisive issue in 2024, with peer-reviewed studies confirming that the policy increases production and transport costs, ultimately eroding the competitiveness of Canadian food systems. While grocers often mitigate impacts by importing cheaper goods, this approach masks the structural weaknesses created by rising operational costs. As such, studies looking at the impact of carbon pricing on food prices are generally flawed. Critics argue that many studies dismissing the tax’s effect on food prices are influenced by funding from Environment and Climate Change Canada, raising questions of bias. Policymakers must look beyond retail price fluctuations to understand the long-term implications of carbon pricing on Canada’s agri-food sector and food security. 1. Record number of visits to food banks In 2024, the HungerCount report revealed a record-breaking number of visits to food banks, alongside Canada’s food insecurity rate reaching an unprecedented 22.9%. These figures highlight a growing affordability crisis, driven by soaring food prices, stagnant wages, and broader inflationary pressures. While some have pointed fingers at immigration, such narratives overlook the complex economic dynamics at play and the humanity at the heart of this issue. Food banks, stretched beyond capacity, are emblematic of a broader social crisis. This story underscores the urgent need for robust social safety nets and policies that prioritize affordability and inclusivity. Honourable mentions: — Upcoming approval of cloned meat in Canada: Health Canada’s consideration of cloned meat approval has sparked heated debate. While advocates point to potential benefits like enhanced livestock genetics and improved food security, critics highlight concerns about transparency, ethical implications, and biodiversity. Without mandatory labelling, consumers are left in the dark about what’s on their plates, intensifying the call for stricter regulations and open communication. — Approval of methane-reducing feed for cattle and dairy: Bovaer, a feed additive approved in February, has the potential to significantly reduce methane emissions from cattle, offering an innovative solution for sustainable farming. However, its adoption remains limited, with no clear government communication or labelling guidelines. The lack of transparency echoes past controversies like Buttergate, leaving consumers uninformed about its broader implications. — Bill C-282 to protect supply management during trade deals: The advancement of Bill C-282, aimed at protecting supply management in future trade agreements, stands as one of the year’s most significant food policy developments. The bill seeks to safeguard Canada’s dairy, poultry, and egg sectors from trade concessions, ensuring industry stability and maintaining predictable prices for consumers. However, its progress has stalled in the Senate, casting doubt on whether it will pass before a new U.S. administration, potentially less favourable to Canada’s supply management system, takes office in January. Critics argue that the legislation could restrict Canada’s flexibility in broader trade negotiations. Nevertheless, supporters view it as essential for preserving food sovereignty and protecting Canadian farmers from an increasingly unpredictable global market. — Bill C-293: Canada’s “Vegan Act:” Originally focused on pandemic preparedness, Bill C-293 has sparked controversy for promoting alternative proteins and de-risking animal protein production. Proponents argue the bill aligns with sustainability goals and food innovation, while critics fear it marginalizes traditional farming. The ongoing debate highlights the tension between progressive food policies and the preservation of Canada’s agricultural heritage. — Ottawa’s tightening of the Temporary Foreign Worker Program: While changes to the Temporary Foreign Worker Program aimed to prioritize domestic hiring, they have exacerbated labour shortages in agriculture and food processing. While the policy seeks to address labour exploitation, it risks destabilizing sectors heavily reliant on foreign workers, calling for a more balanced approach to ensure workforce stability. Happy Holidays! — Dr. Sylvain Charlebois is the director of the Agri-Food Analytics Lab at Dalhousie University and co-host of The Food Professor Podcast.

Everything you need to know about California government in two storiesMoni scores 25 in North Dakota State's 91-62 win against Wisconsin-StoutJoe Fagnano's six years in college have taken him to a place he never imagined. Chris Freeman has the hot foot, and more UConn football notes.

Hegseth meets with moderate Sen. Collins as he lobbies for key votes in the SenateEveryone except you and me is getting ready to bring in the New Year with celebration so let me share quietly some ideas for 2025. Having spent the past two weeks meandering around and searching for inspiration, I have decided that the coming year will be a year of “Greater Risk”. Risk is defined as “a situation involving exposure to danger, harm, or loss”. But it also means “the probability of an event occurring” and “the impact that an event may have”. In 2025 we will witness increased risk in the broadest sense of the word; increased danger, increased probability of that danger occurring, and increased opportunities. This is across the spectrum of geo/local politics and governance and geo/local economics and commerce. “The risk of the risk happening will bring a great risk when it happens”. You might think that sentence is silly but here is a “Chinse proverb” from “The Biography of Dongfang Shuo” written in 200 AD. “If you don’t enter the tiger’s den, how can you catch the tiger’s cub?” The risk of entering the tiger’s den is that there is a high risk that you will suffer for the risk of obtaining a tiger’s cub. The Year of Greater Risk will encompass for us all aspects of risk from Risk Avoidance on to Risk Management and through to seeking out Risk Opportunities. I had previously written that I see 2025 as going to be a year of hard choices, that is having to make difficult decisions in choosing one of the presented options. Black and white, shades of grey, and “the lesser of two evils” are all around us. However, the hard choice/s that I am speaking of is different from choosing mango instead of banana for breakfast. In 2025, this is what I see happening. Two paths lie before me: one easier and one requiring more effort. The easy one is smooth and where I usually travel. The other is more outside my comfort zone but with both leading to the same place. I will pick the path that I usually avoided, replacing the potential for “immediate benefit” with long-term gains. That brings me to my personal strategy for 2025. This should be a year of increased self-sufficiency for all of us. That is not about raising your own chickens. It is about making your own milk tea. Ordering a milk tea delivered by motorcycle is one choice. Going to your kitchen and making it yourself is another option, a better choice for 2025. Anticipating and preparing for greater risk also comes back to my basic “survival” strategy: figure out the worst-case scenario and then make plans to survive and thrive in that situation. Even in an urban area, depending on your housing condition, you can have a separate water tank to store a three- or four-day supply. A basic generator is a bargain at less than P5,000 during a prolonged brownout. Seeking out risk with opportunities is also self-sufficiency and “hard choices” outside your comfort zone. My good friend Will Cabangon, President at AAA Southeast Equities, posted on August 1 his second half 2024 stock choices with the following results: PLUS (DigiPlus) up 61 percent, CBC (China Bank) up 60 percent, OGP (OceanaGold) up 7 percent, and APX (Apex Mining) down 20 percent with an equally weighted return of 27 percent. The PSEI during that period was off 2 percent. How much money did you make this year listening to the “experts”? You can make a bucket list of everything that is wrong in the world and the Philippines like one local pundit. Or find opportunities in a risky world and increase your wealth. Your choice. On June 2, 2025, the cycle trend goes into a yearlong uptrend forecasting increased volatility and “risk”. I guarantee that the next 18 months are going to see increased risk. What you do with that risk is your choice. Happy New Year, my friend. E-mail me at mangun@gmail.com. Visit my website at www.mangunonmarkets.com. Follow me on Twitter at @mangunonmarkets. PSE stock-market information and technical analysis tools provided by the COL Financial Group Inc.

The offering resulted in gross proceeds of USD232,925 ,000 NEW YORK , Dec. 13, 2024 /PRNewswire/ -- An affiliate of the funds known as EQT Infrastructure III and EQT Infrastructure IV (" EQT ") is pleased to announce the completion of an underwritten public offering (the "Offering") of 5,500,000 shares of common stock of Kodiak Gas Services, Inc. KGS (the "Company") for gross proceeds of USD232,925,000 . Goldman Sachs & Co. LLC and J.P. Morgan acted as the underwriters for the Offering, which was completed on December 13, 2024 . The Company did not sell any shares of its common stock in the Offering and did not receive any proceeds from the sale of the shares of its common stock sold by EQT. Contact EQT Press Office, press@eqtpartners.com This information was brought to you by Cision http://news.cision.com https://news.cision.com/eqt/r/eqt-completes-public-offering-of-common-stock-of-kodiak-gas-services,c4082355 The following files are available for download: https://mb.cision.com/Main/87/4082355/3172822.pdf EQT - Kodiak Sell Down (Dec 2024) (KE Draft 12.12.24)_v2_Final View original content: https://www.prnewswire.com/news-releases/eqt-completes-public-offering-of-common-stock-of-kodiak-gas-services-302331697.html SOURCE EQT © 2024 Benzinga.com. Benzinga does not provide investment advice. All rights reserved.East Carolina cornerback Shavon Revel Jr., a potential first-round pick, declared for the 2025 NFL Draft on Friday. Revel, who sustained a torn left ACL in practice in September, had one season of eligibility remaining. "After an incredible journey at East Carolina, I am officially declaring for the 2025 NFL Draft," the senior posted on social media. "... Pirates nation, thank you for your unwavering energy and support every game. Representing ECU is an honor, and I look forward to continuing to do so on Sundays!" Revel recorded two interceptions in three games this season, returning one 50 yards for a touchdown on Sept. 14 against Appalachian State. Over three seasons with the Pirates, Revel had three interceptions, 15 passes defensed and 70 tackles in 24 games. He was a second-team All-American Athletic Conference selection last season. ESPN draft analyst Mel Kiper Jr. ranked Revel as the No. 2 cornerback and No. 23 overall prospect in the 2025 draft class. --Field Level Media REUTERS Join ST's Telegram channel and get the latest breaking news delivered to you. Read 3 articles and stand to win rewards Spin the wheel nowDALLAS (AP) — Boopie Miller scored 24 points and added seven assists and Yohan Traoire posted a double-double with 20 points and 11 rebounds to help power SMU to its seventh straight win, closing out its nonconference schedule with a 98-82 victory over Longwood on Sunday. The Mustangs (11-2) shot 62% from the field for the game, knocking down 10 of 20 shots from behind the 3-point arc to earn their seventh win in eight home games. Longwood (11-4) stayed close by taking advantage of 20 SMU turnovers and 10 steals. Elijah Tucker's jumper with 11:37 left pulled the Lancers within seven, 69-62, but the Mustangs answered with a 14-1 run to take a 20-point lead. Miller knocked down 6 of 7 shots from the field, including both of his 3-point attempts, and was 10 of 12 from the free-throw line. Traore was 7 of 10 from the floor, including 2 of 4 from deep, and was 4 for 4 at the line. Matt Cross added 19 points and Chuck Harris chipped in 12 points off the bench. Tucker finished with 20 points and six rebounds to lead Longwood. Coby Garland posted a double-double with 19 points and 11 assists and Emanuel Richards finished with 12 points off the bench. SMU, off to a 2-0 start in its first season of Atlantic Coast Conference play, hosts No. 4 Duke on Saturday. Longwood opens Big South Conference play Thursday at home against Presbyterian. Get poll alerts and updates on the AP Top 25 throughout the season. Sign up here . AP college basketball: https://apnews.com/hub/ap-top-25-college-basketball-poll and https://apnews.com/hub/college-basketballNEW YORK--(BUSINESS WIRE)--Dec 13, 2024-- On December 10, 2024, Athena Technology Acquisition Corp. II (the “Company”) received a letter from the NYSE American LLC (“NYSE American” or the “Exchange”) stating that the staff of NYSE Regulation has determined to commence proceedings to delist the Company’s class A common stock, units, and redeemable warrants (collectively, the “Company Securities”), pursuant to Sections 119(b) and 119(f) of the NYSE American Company Guide because the Company failed to consummate a business combination within 36 months of the effectiveness of its initial public offering registration statement, or such shorter period that the Company specified in its registration statement. As a result of the determination, trading of the Company Securities on NYSE American has been suspended. As indicated in the letter from NYSE American, the Company has a right to a review of the delisting determination by the Listings Qualifications Panel of the Committee for Review of the Board of Directors of the Exchange, provided that the Company submits a written request for such review no later than December 17, 2024. The Company is working towards consummating its previously announced business combination with Ace Green Recycling, Inc. If the Company Securities are delisted from NYSE American, the Company intends to seek a listing of the Company Securities on The Nasdaq Stock Market LLC in connection with the consummation of the Company’s proposed initial business combination. About Athena Technology Acquisition Corp. II Athena Technology Acquisition Corp. II (NYSE American: ATEK.U, ATEK, ATEK WS), incorporated in Delaware, is a special purpose acquisition company incorporated for the purpose of effecting a merger, capital stock exchange, asset acquisition, stock purchase, reorganization or similar business combination with one or more businesses or entities. ATEK is the third SPAC founded by Isabelle Freidheim, who also serves as its Chief Executive Officer, with Kirthiga Reddy as President and Jennifer Calabrese as Chief Financial Officer. Forward-Looking Statements Certain statements made in this press release are not historical facts but may be considered “forward-looking statements” within the meaning of Section 27A of the Securities Act of 1933, as amended, Section 21E of the Securities Exchange Act of 1934, as amended, and the “safe harbor” provisions under the Private Securities Litigation Reform Act of 1995. Forward-looking statements generally are accompanied by words such as “believe,” “may,” “will,” “estimate,” “continue,” “anticipate,” “intend,” “expect,” “should,” “would,” “plan,” “predict,” “potential,” “seem,” “seek,” “future,” “outlook,” “intend,” or continue or the negatives of these terms or variations of them or similar terminology or expressions that predict or indicate future events or trends or that are not statements of historical matters. These statements are based on the current expectations of the Company’s management and are not predictions of actual performance. Such statements may include, but are not limited to, statements regarding the Company’s ability to consummate its previously announced business combination and to list the Company Securities on Nasdaq in connection with the consummation of the proposed business combination. These forward-looking statements are provided for illustrative purposes only and are not intended to serve as, and must not be relied on, by any investor as a guarantee, an assurance, a prediction or a definitive statement of fact or probability. Actual events and circumstances are difficult or impossible to predict and will differ from assumptions. Many actual events and circumstances are beyond the control of the Company. These statements are subject to a number of risks and uncertainties, and actual results may differ materially. These risks and uncertainties include, but are not limited to: general economic, political and business conditions; the number of redemption requests made by the Company’s stockholders in connection with a potential business combination; the outcome of any legal proceedings that may be instituted against the Company; the risk that the approval of the Company’s stockholders for a potential transaction is not obtained; expectations related to the timing of a potential business combination; failure to realize the anticipated benefits of a business combination; the risk that a business combination may not be completed by the Company’s business combination deadline; costs related to a business combination; and other risks that will be detailed from time to time in filings with the Securities and Exchange Commission, including those risks discussed under the heading “Risk Factors” in the Company’s Annual Report on Form 10-K for the year ended December 31, 2023 filed with the SEC on September 27, 2024 and in subsequently filed Quarterly Reports on Form 10-Q. The foregoing list of risk factors is not exhaustive. There may be additional risks that could also cause actual results to differ from those contained in these forward-looking statements. In addition, forward-looking statements provide the Company’s expectations, plans or forecasts of future events and views as of the date of this press release. And while the Company may elect to update these forward-looking statements in the future, the Company specifically disclaims any obligation to do so, except as required by law. These forward-looking statements should not be relied upon as representing the Company’s assessments as of any date subsequent to the date of this press release. Accordingly, undue reliance should not be placed upon the forward-looking statements. Nothing herein should be regarded as a representation by any person that the forward-looking statements set forth herein will be achieved or that the results of such forward-looking statements will be achieved. View source version on businesswire.com : https://www.businesswire.com/news/home/20241213050198/en/ CONTACT: Bevel PR Athena@bevelpr.com KEYWORD: NEW YORK UNITED STATES NORTH AMERICA INDUSTRY KEYWORD: BANKING PROFESSIONAL SERVICES FINANCE SOURCE: Athena Technology Acquisition Corp. II Copyright Business Wire 2024. PUB: 12/13/2024 03:56 PM/DISC: 12/13/2024 03:57 PM http://www.businesswire.com/news/home/20241213050198/en

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online cockfighting INDIANAPOLIS (AP) — Jarvis Walker's 20 points helped IU Indianapolis defeat Trinity Christian 106-49 on Saturday. Walker shot 7 for 12, including 6 for 10 from beyond the arc for the Jaguars (4-5). Paul Zilinskas shot 5 for 9, including 4 for 7 from beyond the arc to add 15 points. DeSean Goode had 14 points and shot 4 of 5 from the field and 5 for 5 from the line. The Trolls were led in scoring by Tylan Harris, who finished with 11 points. Kaden Eirhart added nine points for Trinity Christian. The Associated Press created this story using technology provided by Data Skrive and data from Sportradar .

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Defensive letdowns doom Celtics in frustrating loss to PacersFARGO — When Jimmy Carter emerged on the national stage during his 1976 presidential campaign, he captured the curiosity of many in North Dakota and Minnesota with his humble roots as a peanut farmer from Plains, Georgia. Carter, who passed away Sunday at 100, holds the distinction of living longer than any other president after leaving office — a remarkable 44 years. Renowned for extensive humanitarian efforts following his presidency, Carter was often regarded as a more impactful former president than commander-in-chief. ADVERTISEMENT Over the last 44 years, we've learned a lot about Carter as a politician, president and social reformer. However, in the late 1970s, people here knew little about him. Still, when reporters asked for their thoughts, they had plenty to say. WDAY-TV News often conducted what reporters called "Man on the Street" interviews. Longtime WDAY-TV anchorman Marv Bossart did a series of interviews in 1976 and 1977 as Jimmy Carter ran for and eventually won the White House. Bossart chatted with regular people about various issues, asking questions such as "What would you ask the new president?" and "What do you think of the president's controversial brother, Billy Carter?" Fortunately, all those years ago, WDAY shared these films with the State Historical Society of North Dakota. Thanks to the hard work of archivist Greta Beck, you can now see them in their entirety. The clips are fascinating for several reasons. First, it's interesting to note how civil the discourse was. The people who disagreed with Carter didn't seem angry or hostile when expressing their opinions. There appeared to be a level of respect and an "agree to disagree" mindset that we don't often see today. For those not interested in 1970s-era politics, it's also enlightening to see what everyone wore and what West Acres looked like back then. In the background, you can often see old restaurants and stores that no longer exist. ADVERTISEMENT Here are the clips in chronological order. Hi, I'm Tracy Briggs. Thanks for reading my column! I love going "Back Then" every week with stories about interesting people, places and things from our past. Check out a few below. If you have an idea for a story, email me at tracy.briggs@forumcomm.com .PTI Mumbai Caretaker Chief Minister Eknath Shinde on Wednesday announced the Shiv Sena would support the decisions of Prime Minister Narendra Modi and Union Home Minister Amit Shah to name the next Maharashtra CM, paving the way for the BJP to head the new government. With Shinde declaring the Shiv Sena would not be a “hurdle” in the formation of new government, two-time BJP chief minister Devendra Fadnavis, one of the architects of the ruling Mahayuti’s grand win in the just-held state assembly polls, is emerging as a front-runner for the top post. The caretaker CM’s declaration at a press conference in his political turf Thane marks a significant step toward a smooth transition of power after the BJP-led ruling alliance achieved a stunning victory in the November 20 polls. As discussions about the new government intensify, political observers are closely watching the developments that may soon lead to Fadnavis being appointed as the new chief minister with two deputy CMs. Shinde (60), alongside his outgoing deputies Fadnavis and Ajit Pawar of the Nationalist Congress Party (NCP), is expected to meet with Shah in New Delhi on Thursday to further discuss modalities of the government formation. Maharashtra NDA leaders are also likely to meet the top BJP brass here on Thursday, BJP sources said, indicating the formula of one chief minister and two deputy CMs representing the all three major ‘Mahayuti’ constituents (BJP, Shiv Sena, NCP) will be followed in the new government. Shinde, who heads the Shiv Sena, may swap his position with Fadnavis, while Pawar will continue as one of the two deputy CMs, the sources said. However, the details of the new government are likely to be given a concrete shape in the meeting of the state’s ruling alliance leaders with the BJP’s national leadership. Talking to reporters at his Thane residence, five days after the resounding victory of the Mahayuti alliance, Shinde said, “I spoke to the Prime Minister and the Home Minister and assured them that there will be no hindrance from our side.” “Our Shiv Sena will fully support the BJP’s decision to name the next Maharashtra CM. There is no speed breaker from our side,” Shinde said, showing no trace on his face of having to swallow the bitter pill. Ajit Pawar told reporters the new CM is likely to be sworn in either on November 30 or December 1. There will be two deputy chief ministers in the incoming government, added the NCP leader. Shinde rubbished reports he was disappointed for not getting a second term as CM despite the ruling alliance winning a thumping victory under his leadership. “Nobody is annoyed. We have worked as Mahayuti,” the Shiv Sena leader, who assumed the top office in June 2022, asserted. Asked if he was dismayed that he was not getting a second term, Shinde said, “There is no such thing. You must remember that BJP supported my tenure as CM.” “There is a meeting in Delhi tomorrow with Amit Bhai (Shah) and all related decisions will be taken there,” Shinde said. “I thank the people and voters of Maharashtra for this landslide victory in the assembly elections. I am a worker forever; for me, CM is not Chief Minister but common man,” he noted. Shinde thanked PM Modi and Home Minister Shah for supporting him during his two-and-a-half year tenure as chief minister. “I am not disappointed. We fight and don’t cry,” Shinde said, referring to media reports that he was unhappy over being asked to step down despite leading the Mahayuti to poll victory. Maharashtra BJP chief Chandrashekhar Bawankule thanked Shinde for stating that he will abide by the decision of the top BJP leadership on the next chief minister.

Miguel Tomley scores 28 to lead Weber State over Pepperdine 68-53 at Arizona Tip-Off