'We’ve helped 1,500 families this year': Lights and Sirens Toy Drive aids LIFE*SPINIn the end, the TGA Player's Voice award served as a testament to the power of player feedback and engagement within the gaming industry. By giving a voice to the gaming community and allowing players to have a say in the recognition of their favorite titles, the TGA Player's Voice award highlighted the importance of player-centric design and storytelling in shaping the future of gaming.In conclusion, Nvidia's announcement of its willingness to answer any regulatory questions and demonstrate a cooperative attitude signifies a significant step towards fostering trust, transparency, and accountability in the technology sector. By proactively engaging with regulators and demonstrating a commitment to ethical conduct, Nvidia sets a commendable example for its peers and underscores the importance of responsible corporate citizenship. As the company continues to drive innovation and advance technological progress, its dedication to regulatory compliance and cooperation will be instrumental in maintaining its reputation as a leader in the industry.jilibet withdrawal pin 。

A 95-YEAR-OLD woman was left lying on the pavement with a broken hip in freezing weather for five hours waiting for an ambulance. Winifred Soanes fell over in Christchurch High Street, Dorset , in the early afternoon while out her 92-year-old husband Andrew. She was unable to move due to the sheer pain she was in. Despite multiple concerned members of the public making repeated 999 calls for an ambulance and explaining Winifred was elderly and vulnerable, they were told she "was not a priority". People managed to prop her head up with shoe boxes from market stallholders and a pillow from a nearby pub. Staff at Mountain Warehouse provided her with sleeping bags and charity shops gave blankets and hot water bottles to keep Winifred warm. read more news Others provided coffee and food to help Andrew, who is an army veteran and diabetic and who refused to leave his wife's side. An ambulance eventually arrived at 7.45pm on Monday and took Winifred to hospital where she remains today. To add insult to injury, Andrew has developed a chest infection as a result of being out in the cold so long and cannot visit his wife in hospital. People who helped the couple have slammed the "broken system". Most read in The Sun Jennifer Baylis, who was working in a charity shop, said: "I can't tell you how upsetting it was, she actually said 'I'm going to die here tonight'. "She was in a phenomenal amount of pain and in such a vulnerable position, on a cold floor, totally reliant on complete strangers. "She fell at 2.30pm and the ambulance finally showed up at 7.45pm. "We were all distressed that there was no first responder available, no police officer, literally no one available to help for over five hours. "You feel so helpless, I was so angry that they were in this position. It shouldn't be happening in this day and age. "The NHS are fantastic once help is there. We know how hard they work. "But something went very very wrong to leave a 95-year-old lady on the pavement of a high street at night." David Lovell, who saw her fall and was the first to call for an ambulance, said: "I can't describe how cold it was, and as it got dark, the temperature dropped really quickly. "She was lying on the cold pavement and we couldn't move her because she was in huge amounts of pain." When others called again to chase up the ambulance, they were given no time frame for how long the wait would be. Winifred was eventually taken to Poole Hospital and is waiting for a specialist operation for her injuries. Andrew said: "The situation was dire, but it's great to know that when they need to, the community all pull together to help." A spokesperson for the South Western Ambulance Service, said: "We are sorry that we were not able to provide a timely response to this patient. "Any occasion where the care we provide falls below the high standards our patients deserve and rightly expect is unacceptable. "Handover delays at emergency departments remain one of our biggest challenges. READ MORE SUN STORIES "To ensure our ambulances are available to attend the next emergency call within the community, we need to be able to hand patients over within the 15-minute national target . "We continue to work hard with our partners in the NHS and social care, to do all we can to improve the service that patients receive." THE NHS waiting list in England has become a political flashpoint as it has ballooned in recent years, more than doubling in a decade. The statistics for England count the number of procedures, such as operations and non-surgical treatments, that are due to patients. The procedures are known as elective treatment because they are planned and not emergencies. Many are routine ops such as for hip or knee replacements, cataracts or kidney stones, but the numbers also include some cancer treatments. This is how the wait list has changed over time: August 2007: 4.19million – The first entry in current records. December 2009: 2.32million – The smallest waiting list on modern record. April 2013: 2.75million – The Conservative and Liberal Democrat coalition restructures the NHS. Current chancellor Jeremy Hunt was Health Secretary. April 2016: 3.79million – Junior doctors go on strike for the first time in 40 years. Theresa May is elected Prime Minister. February 2020: 4.57million – The final month before the UK's first Covid lockdown in March 2020. July 2021: 5.61million – The end of all legal Covid restrictions in the UK. January 2023: 7.21million – New Prime Minister Rishi Sunak pledges to reduce waiting lists within a year, effectively April 2024. September 2023: 7.77million – The highest figure on record comes during a year hit with strikes by junior doctors, consultants, nurses and ambulance workers. February 2024: 7.54million – Ministers admit the pledge to cut the backlog has failed. August 2024: 7.64million – List continues to rise under Keir Starmer's new Labour Government.“America’s Most Wanted” host John Walsh is 79. Keyboardist Bob Carpenter with The Nitty Gritty Dirt Band is 78. Bassist George Porter Jr. of The Meters is 77. Humorist David Sedaris is 68. Drummer Brian Westrum of Sons of the Desert is 62. Drummer Lars Ulrich of Metallica is 61. Guitarist J of White Zombie is 57. Country singer Audrey Wiggins is 57. Guitarist Peter Klett of Candlebox is 56. Singer James Mercer of The Shins is 54. Actor-singer Jared Leto of 30 Seconds to Mars is 53. Singer Chris Daughtry (“American Idol”) is 45. Actor Beth Behrs (“The Neighborhood,” “2 Broke Girls”) is 39. Actor Kit Harington (“Game of Thrones”) is 38. Actor Eden Sher (“The Middle”) is 33. Singer Jade Thirlwall of Little Mix is 32. — Associated Press Be the first to know Get local news delivered to your inbox!

Fans of the popular horror film series "Final Destination" can finally rejoice, as the long-awaited sixth installment has officially been announced. It has been 14 years since the last film in the franchise was released, and anticipation has been building among horror enthusiasts for another thrilling chapter in the iconic series.In recognition of his exceptional performances throughout the month, Salah has been named the PFA Fans' Player of the Month for November. This accolade serves as a testament to Salah's impact on the pitch and his continued excellence in the English Premier League.Brandon Nunez tosses 2 TD passes to help New Mexico State beat Middle Tennessee 36-21

As they gear up to face Real Madrid, Lukman and his teammates are aware of the challenges that lie ahead. Real Madrid, a team with a rich history and a tradition of success, will not make it easy for Atlanta to secure a victory. However, Lukman is confident in his team's abilities and believes that they have what it takes to come out on top.

With the extension of loan terms and the increase in the highest financing ratio, specialized loans for stock purchase and repurchase have undergone a significant optimization recently. This move has been welcomed by investors and market participants alike, as it provides greater flexibility and opportunities for leveraging investments in the stock market.

Elon Musk's Net Worth Soars by $133 Billion in 2021Chandigarh: The Shiromani Akali Dal (SAD) and Congress welcomed the judgment regarding the 2016 Quran desecration case . Senior SAD leader Dr Daljit Singh Cheema said the verdict has exposed a deep-rooted conspiracy of sacrilege against religious scriptures in Punjab. He added that the judgment reveals the true face of the Aam Aadmi Party (AAP) and validates SAD’s allegations that the serial incidents of sacrilege in Punjab were part of a deliberate plot to disrupt peace and communal harmony for political gains. Dr Cheema asked Kejriwal to explain to the nation why his party MLA committed such a grave crime. Leader of Opposition Partap Singh Bajwa also criticised AAP and Arvind Kejriwal, stating that Kejriwal, who had promised justice in sacrilege cases, now faces the conviction of his own MLA, Naresh Yadav, in the Malerkotla Quran desecration case. "AAP, which once claimed the moral high ground, now stands exposed. Instead of bringing healing to Punjab, they have contributed to unrest," Bajwa remarked. tnn We also published the following articles recently AAP MLA Naresh Balyan arrested by Delhi Police in 2023 extortion case AAP MLA Naresh Balyan was arrested by Delhi Police in connection with a 2023 extortion case after the BJP released an audio clip. The clip allegedly featured Balyan discussing plans to extort money from a businessman with a gangster. BJP accused AAP of harboring criminals and criticized Arvind Kejriwal for allegedly consenting to such activities. Born on Constitution Day, AAP is a party of people: Kejriwal Aam Aadmi Party's 13th Foundation Day highlighted its model of honest and profitable governance. Arvind Kejriwal emphasized the party's commitment to clean the country's system, with the 'jhadu' symbol representing their mission. Despite challenges, the party remains strong, aiming to protect the Constitution and serve the common man, reflecting on its journey from the 2011 anti-corruption movement. AAP MLA Naresh Balyan arrested for 'links' with gangster Delhi Police's crime branch arrested AAP MLA Naresh Balyan on extortion charges linked to gangster Kapil Sangwan, who is in the UK. An audio recording revealed Balyan and Sangwan discussing extortion activities. Sangwan's shooters have been involved in several firing incidents in Delhi, prompting police action. Balyan was evasive during questioning, leading to his arrest.In the forward position, the presence of Manchester City's Ronaldo, Messi, and Neymar headline the FIFA best team announcement, leaving out notable names like Mohamed Salah from Liverpool, Erling Haaland from Borussia Dortmund, or Kylian Mbappe from Paris Saint-Germain. While Ronaldo, Messi, and Neymar have enjoyed successful seasons with impressive goal-scoring records, the omission of other dynamic forwards has sparked debates over the criteria used for selecting the best players in the forward position.

When it comes to key players, both teams boast a wealth of talent. Leverkusen's Kai Havertz is a young prodigy who has been attracting interest from top clubs across Europe. His ability to create chances and score goals makes him a threat to any defense. Meanwhile, Inter Milan's Romelu Lukaku has been in scintillating form, terrorizing defenses with his physical presence and lethal finishing.Da Bing, known for his sharp wit and insightful commentary on social issues, made a post on social media expressing his disappointment with consumers who take advantage of promotions and discounts to save money without considering the impact on businesses and society as a whole. He accused these bargain hunters of lacking ethics and moral integrity, sparking a heated debate among netizens.

Moreover, Sora introduces a user-friendly interface that simplifies the video creation process, making it accessible to users with varying levels of technical expertise. With intuitive controls and customizable settings, users can easily manipulate various aspects of the generated videos, such as visual styles, camera angles, and editing techniques, to achieve their desired outcomes.Another key figure from that title-winning team was Rio Ferdinand, a stalwart in United's defense for over a decade. The former England international hung up his boots in 2015 after a brief spell with Queens Park Rangers. Ferdinand has since transitioned into a successful pundit and businessman.

Title: "Vinlink Technology: Proposing to Utilize Up to 5 Billion RMB of Idle Own Funds for Acquisition"NEW YORK , Dec. 6, 2024 /PRNewswire/ -- Report with the AI impact on market trends - The global folding electric bicycle market size is estimated to grow by USD 204.5 million from 2024-2028, according to Technavio. The market is estimated to grow at a CAGR of 8.8% during the forecast period. Increasing traffic congestion is driving market growth, with a trend towards emergence of lightweight folding electric bicycles. However, easy availability of refurbished bicycles poses a challenge. Key market players include Addmotor Tech, Autonix Auto Industries Pvt. Ltd., Benelli Biciclette, Brompton Bicycle Retail Ltd., Dahon North America Inc., e JOE Bike, ENZO eBike, Kalkhoff Werke GmbH, Karbon Kinetics Ltd., Mighty Velo, Ming Cycle Industrial Co. Ltd., Strodesters Inc., SUNRA, Svitch Bikes, SWAGTRON, VoltBike, Woosh Bikes Ltd., X Treme Scooters, XDS BICYCLES, and Xiaomi Communications Co. Ltd.. AI-Powered Market Evolution Insights. Our comprehensive market report ready with the latest trends, growth opportunities, and strategic analysis- View Free Sample Report PDF Forecast period 2024-2028 Base Year 2023 Historic Data 2018 - 2022 Segment Covered Age Group (Age 18-50, Lesser than 18, and Age greater than 50), Distribution Channel (Offline and Online), and Geography (Europe, North America, APAC, South America, and Middle East and Africa) Region Covered Europe, North America, APAC, South America, and Middle East and Africa Key companies profiled Addmotor Tech, Autonix Auto Industries Pvt. Ltd., Benelli Biciclette, Brompton Bicycle Retail Ltd., Dahon North America Inc., e JOE Bike, ENZO eBike, Kalkhoff Werke GmbH, Karbon Kinetics Ltd., Mighty Velo, Ming Cycle Industrial Co. Ltd., Strodesters Inc., SUNRA, Svitch Bikes, SWAGTRON, VoltBike, Woosh Bikes Ltd., X Treme Scooters, XDS BICYCLES, and Xiaomi Communications Co. Ltd. Key Market Trends Fueling Growth Folding electric bicycles are popular due to their advanced features and lightweight design, despite their higher price point. These bicycles boast aluminum and carbon frames, wider knobby tires, air suspensions with weight adjusters, and hydraulic brakes. Vendors focus on introducing innovative technology upgrades to attract consumers to new and upgraded products. In October 2021 , Brompton launched the Brompton X, a folding electric bike with a magnesium frame, keeping it relatively lightweight at 17 kg. Consumers are willing to pay premium prices for value-added features, and the global folding electric bicycle market is expected to experience significant growth due to technological advancements and increasing demand for lightweight e-bikes. The folding electric bike market is experiencing significant growth due to its popularity among urban commuters. This space-saving option caters to riders who face availability space issues in their homes or workplaces. The bicycle's design includes a hinge at the rear triangle, allowing the main frame to fold around the bike's rear triangle, derailleur, and moving parts. Urban residents turn to folding bikes to tackle traffic-related issues, such as long car lines and traffic jams. Private organizations and public transportation systems are embracing foldable bikes as an alternative to conventional bikes and electric cars. The material used in these bikes ranges from conventional to electric, with the electric segment gaining traction due to health advantages like improved cognitive function, reduced stress, and better mood. The folding type of bike offers balance and coordination benefits for consumers, including mountain bikers. The market trends include high-speed features and the millennial generation's preference for eco-friendly transportation options, reducing carbon emissions. The automotive sector's vehicle sales are impacted as consumers opt for these bikes instead. Raw materials and design performance are key factors driving innovation in the folding electric bike market. Insights on how AI is driving innovation, efficiency, and market growth- Request Sample! Market Challenges The high-end folding electric bicycle market faces competition from the sale of used bicycles, both online and offline. Consumers are drawn to the affordability of refurbished folding electric bicycles, which are priced lower than new ones. Vendors offering warranties further boost demand for second-hand cycles. EBay Inc. And Craigslist are notable platforms for purchasing refurbished folding electric bicycles at competitive prices. This trend may restrict the expansion of the global folding electric bicycle market during the forecast period. The folding electric bicycle market is experiencing significant growth due to increasing urbanization and the need for eco-friendly transportation solutions. However, challenges persist in the form of limited e-bike infrastructure, solar parking areas being insufficient, and bicycle theft concerns. Simplicity in storage, lightweight design, and collapsible frames make folding e-bikes an attractive option for urban commuters in metropolitan areas. Lithium-ion batteries and rechargeable batteries are key components, with battery life and performance being crucial factors. Motor efficiency, battery technology, and material innovations, including magnesium alloy and bamboo frames, are also important. Fitness tracking, navigation, and sustainability are desirable features. Solar charging and market entry dates are also considerations. Folding e-bikes offer a solution to traffic, carbon emission, and transportation restrictions, providing health benefits and a boost to fitness. However, challenges such as battery life, motor efficiency, and material costs may act as restraining factors for the electric bicycle business. Insights into how AI is reshaping industries and driving growth- Download a Sample Report Segment Overview This folding electric bicycle market report extensively covers market segmentation by Age Group 1.1 Age 18-50 1.2 Lesser than 18 1.3 Age greater than 50 Distribution Channel 2.1 Offline 2.2 Online Geography 3.1 Europe 3.2 North America 3.3 APAC 3.4 South America 3.5 Middle East and Africa 1.1 Age 18-50- Folding electric bicycles offer numerous benefits to adults aged 18-50, making them an attractive alternative to traditional modes of transportation. These benefits include improved cardiovascular fitness, joint mobility, posture, coordination, and reduced stress hormones and body fat levels. With traffic congestion and air pollution becoming major concerns, folding electric bicycles provide an efficient solution. They help adults navigate through traffic effectively and contribute to reducing road infrastructure damage, which can cost governments millions of dollars daily. Governments are responding by promoting cycling infrastructure, such as protected lanes and signals, encouraging more adults to opt for folding electric bicycles. Vendors are expanding their product offerings to meet this growing demand, leading to increased sales in the age group 18-50 segment of the global folding electric bicycle market. Download complimentary Sample Report to gain insights into AI's impact on market dynamics, emerging trends, and future opportunities- including forecast (2024-2028) and historic data (2018 - 2022) Research Analysis Folding bikes, also known as foldable or collapsible bikes, are a space-saving option for urban commuters and riders with limited available space. These innovative bikes feature a collapsible frame that allows the main frame, rear triangle, derailleur, and even the bicycle's back wheel to be folded for easy storage. With the integration of rechargeable batteries, folding bikes have evolved into electric folding bikes or e-bikes, providing a boost for riders in metropolitan areas. Lightweight design, long battery life, and high motor efficiency make these e-bikes a popular choice for eco-conscious commuters looking to avoid cars and motorbikes in traffic. Design aesthetics and battery technology continue to improve, offering a wide range of options for riders seeking a combination of performance and portability. Market Research Overview The Folding Electric Bike market is witnessing significant growth due to the increasing demand from urban commuters for space-saving mobility solutions. Folding bikes offer the convenience of compact size, making them an ideal choice for riders in urban areas with limited available space. The main frame, rear triangle, derailleur, and hinge are key components of a folding bike, with moving parts minimized for ease of use. Urban residents face traffic-related issues such as long car lines and traffic jams, making folding electric bikes an attractive alternative to private vehicles. The electric segment of the folding bike market is gaining popularity due to its health advantages, including improved cognitive function, reduced stress, and better mood. Folding electric bikes offer high-speed features and are popular among the millennial generation, who prioritize green mobility solutions over traditional automobiles. The electric lineup includes ground-breaking models like the E-scooter ES-2, GB-2 Electric, Ciao E7, and Unio E20. The rising urbanization and affordability of folding electric bikes are driving demand, with existing infrastructure being adapted to accommodate e-bike infrastructures such as solar parking areas. However, concerns over battery theft and simplicity in storage remain challenges for the industry. Lightweight design, long battery life, and performance are key considerations for consumers, with advancements in battery technology, motor efficiency, and material innovations driving growth. Table of Contents: 1 Executive Summary 2 Market Landscape 3 Market Sizing 4 Historic Market Size 5 Five Forces Analysis 6 Market Segmentation Age Group Age 18-50 Lesser Than 18 Age Greater Than 50 Distribution Channel Offline Online Geography Europe North America APAC South America Middle East And Africa 7 Customer Landscape 8 Geographic Landscape 9 Drivers, Challenges, and Trends 10 Company Landscape 11 Company Analysis 12 Appendix About Technavio Technavio is a leading global technology research and advisory company. Their research and analysis focuses on emerging market trends and provides actionable insights to help businesses identify market opportunities and develop effective strategies to optimize their market positions. With over 500 specialized analysts, Technavio's report library consists of more than 17,000 reports and counting, covering 800 technologies, spanning across 50 countries. Their client base consists of enterprises of all sizes, including more than 100 Fortune 500 companies. This growing client base relies on Technavio's comprehensive coverage, extensive research, and actionable market insights to identify opportunities in existing and potential markets and assess their competitive positions within changing market scenarios. Contacts Technavio Research Jesse Maida Media & Marketing Executive US: +1 844 364 1100 UK: +44 203 893 3200 Email: media@technavio.com Website: www.technavio.com/ View original content to download multimedia: https://www.prnewswire.com/news-releases/folding-electric-bicycle-market-to-grow-by-usd-204-5-million-from-2024-2028--driven-by-traffic-congestion-report-on-ai-driven-market-transformation--technavio-302324238.html SOURCE Technavio © 2024 Benzinga.com. Benzinga does not provide investment advice. All rights reserved.

Moreover, Ma touched upon the ethical considerations surrounding AI and the importance of responsible AI deployment. He emphasized the need for transparency, fairness, and accountability in AI-driven decision-making processes to ensure that the technology benefits society as a whole. Ma's call for ethical AI reflects a growing awareness of the potential risks and pitfalls associated with unchecked artificial intelligence, urging companies to prioritize ethical standards in their AI initiatives.Amanda Hernández | (TNS) Stateline.org CHICAGO — Shoplifting rates in the three largest U.S. cities — New York, Los Angeles and Chicago — remain higher than they were before the pandemic, according to a report last month from the nonpartisan research group Council on Criminal Justice. The sharp rise in retail theft in recent years has made shoplifting a hot-button issue, especially for politicians looking to address public safety concerns in their communities. Since 2020, when viral videos of smash-and-grab robberies flooded social media during the COVID-19 pandemic, many Americans have expressed fears that crime is out of control. Polls show that perceptions have improved recently, but a majority of Americans still say crime is worse than in previous years. “There is this sense of brazenness that people have — they can just walk in and steal stuff. ... That hurts the consumer, and it hurts the company,” said Alex Piquero, a criminology professor at the University of Miami and former director of the federal Bureau of Justice Statistics, in an interview. “That’s just the world we live in,” he said. “We need to get people to realize that you have to obey the law.” At least eight states — Arizona, California, Florida, Iowa, Kansas, Louisiana, New York and Vermont — passed a total of 14 bills in 2024 aimed at tackling retail theft, according to the National Conference of State Legislatures. The measures range from redefining retail crimes and adjusting penalties to allowing cross-county aggregation of theft charges and protecting retail workers. Major retailers have responded to rising theft since 2020 by locking up merchandise, upgrading security cameras, hiring private security firms and even closing stores. Still, the report indicates that shoplifting remains a stubborn problem. In Chicago, the rate of reported shoplifting incidents remained below pre-pandemic levels throughout 2023 — but surged by 46% from January to October 2024 compared with the same period a year ago. Shoplifting in Los Angeles was 87% higher in 2023 than in 2019. Police reports of shoplifting from January to October 2024 were lower than in 2023. Los Angeles adopted a new crime reporting system in March 2024, which has likely led to an undercount, according to the report. In New York, shoplifting rose 48% from 2021 to 2022, then dipped slightly last year. Still, the shoplifting rate was 55% higher in 2023 than in 2019. This year, the shoplifting rate increased by 3% from January to September compared with the same period last year. While shoplifting rates tend to rise in November and December, which coincides with in-person holiday shopping, data from the Council on Criminal Justice’s sample of 23 U.S. cities shows higher rates in the first half of 2024 compared with 2023. Researchers found it surprising that rates went up despite retailers doing more to fight shoplifting. Experts say the spike might reflect improved reporting efforts rather than a spike in theft. “As retailers have been paying more attention to shoplifting, we would not expect the numbers to increase,” said Ernesto Lopez, the report’s author and a senior research specialist with the council. “It makes it a challenge to understand the trends of shoplifting.” In downtown Chicago on a recent early afternoon, potential shoppers shuffled through the streets and nearby malls, browsing for gifts ahead of the holidays. Edward Johnson, a guard at The Shops at North Bridge, said that malls have become quieter in the dozen or so years he has worked in mall security, with the rise of online retailers. As for shoplifters, Johnson said there isn’t a single type of person to look out for — they can come from any background. “I think good-hearted people see something they can’t afford and figure nothing is lost if they take something from the store,” Johnson said as he patrolled the mall, keeping an eye out for lost or suspicious items. Between 2018 and 2023, most shoplifting in Chicago was reported in the downtown area, as well as in the Old Town, River North and Lincoln Park neighborhoods, according to a separate analysis by the Council on Criminal Justice. Newly sworn-in Cook County State’s Attorney Eileen O’Neill Burke this month lowered the threshold for charging retail theft as a felony in the county, which includes Chicago, from $1,000 to $300, aligning it with state law. “It sends a signal that she’s taking it seriously,” Rob Karr, the president and CEO of the Illinois Retail Merchants Association, told Stateline. Nationally, retailers are worried about organized theft. The National Retail Federation’s latest report attributed 36% of the $112.1 billion in lost merchandise in 2022 to “external theft,” which includes organized retail crime. Organized retail crime typically involves coordinated efforts by groups to steal items with the intent to resell them for a profit. Commonly targeted goods include high-demand items such as baby formula, laundry detergent and electronics. The same report found that retailers’ fear of violence associated with theft also is on the rise, with more retailers taking a “hands-off approach.” More than 41% of respondents to the organization’s 2023 survey, up from 38% in 2022, reported that no employee is authorized to try and stop a shoplifter. (The federation’s reporting has come under criticism. It retracted a claim last year that attributed nearly half of lost merchandise in 2021 to organized retail crime; such theft accounted for only about 5%. The group announced this fall it will no longer publish its reports on lost merchandise.) Policy experts say shoplifting and organized retail theft can significantly harm critical industries, drive up costs for consumers and reduce sales tax revenue for states. Those worries have driven recent state-level action to boost penalties for shoplifting. California Democratic Gov. Gavin Newsom signed a package of 10 bills into law in August aimed at addressing retail theft. These measures make repeated theft convictions a felony, allow aggregation of crimes across multiple counties to be charged as a single felony, and permit police to arrest suspects for retail theft even if the crime wasn’t witnessed directly by an officer. In September, Newsom signed an additional bill that imposes steeper felony penalties for large-scale theft offenses. California voters also overwhelmingly approved a ballot measure in November that increases penalties for specific drug-related and theft crimes. Under the new law, people who are convicted of theft at least twice may face felony charges on their third offense, regardless of the stolen item’s value. “With these changes in the law, really it comes down to making sure that law enforcement is showing up to our stores in a timely manner, and that the prosecutors and the [district attorneys] are prosecuting,” Rachel Michelin, the president and CEO of the California Retailers Association, told Stateline. “That’s the only way we’re going to deter retail theft in our communities.” In New Jersey, a bipartisan bill making its way through the legislature would increase penalties for leading a shoplifting ring and allow extended sentences for repeat offenders. “This bill is going after a formally organized band of criminals that deliver such destruction to a critical business in our community. We have to act. We have to create a deterrence,” Democratic Assemblymember Joseph Danielsen, one of the bill’s prime sponsors, said in an interview with Stateline. The legislation would allow extended sentences for people convicted of shoplifting three times within 10 years or within 10 years of their release from prison, and would increase penalties to 10 to 20 years in prison for leading a retail crime ring. The bill also would allow law enforcement to aggregate the value of stolen goods over the course of a year to charge serial shoplifters with more serious offenses. Additionally, the bill would increase penalties for assaults committed against retail workers, and would require retailers to train employees on detecting gift card scams. Maryland legislators considered a similar bill during this year’s legislative session that would have defined organized retail theft and made it a felony. The bill didn’t make it out of committee, but Cailey Locklair, president of the Maryland Retailers Alliance, said the group plans to propose a bill during next year’s legislative session that would target gift card fraud. Better, more thorough reporting from retailers is essential to truly understanding shoplifting trends and its full impact, in part because some retail-related crimes, such as gift card fraud, are frequently underreported, according to Lopez, of the Council on Criminal Justice. Measuring crime across jurisdictions is notoriously difficult , and the council does not track organized retail theft specifically because law enforcement typically doesn’t identify it as such at the time of arrest — if an arrest even occurs — requiring further investigation, Lopez said. The council’s latest report found conflicting trends in the FBI’s national crime reporting systems. The FBI’s older system, the Summary Reporting System, known as SRS, suggests that reported shoplifting hadn’t gone up through 2023, remaining on par with 2019 levels. In contrast, the FBI’s National Incident-Based Reporting System, or NIBRS, shows a 93% increase in shoplifting over the same period. The discrepancy may stem from the type of law enforcement agencies that have adopted the latter system, Lopez said. Some of those communities may have higher levels of shoplifting or other types of property crime, which could be what is driving the spike, Lopez said. Despite the discrepancies and varying levels of shoplifting across the country, Lopez said, it’s important for retailers to report these incidents, as doing so could help allocate law enforcement resources more effectively. “All law enforcement agencies have limited resources, and having the most accurate information allows for not just better policy, but also better implementation — better use of strategic resources,” Lopez said. Stateline staff writer Robbie Sequeira contributed to this report. ©2024 States Newsroom. Visit at stateline.org. Distributed by Tribune Content Agency, LLC.

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In the wake of the airstrike, the United States weighed in on the situation, characterizing Israel's actions as a temporary measure to address immediate security concerns. A spokesperson for the US State Department stated that the US supports Israel's right to defend itself against threats and reiterated the longstanding partnership between the two countries.Worli, one of Mumbai's most dynamic and diverse constituencies, is witnessing an intense political battle. This central Mumbai seat, which blends upscale residences with historic chawls housing working-class communities, will see a high-stakes three-way contest among key leaders from different factions of the Shiv Sena. Here are the key candidates: Aaditya Thackeray (Shiv Sena UBT) Aaditya Thackeray, 34, is the Shiv Sena (UBT) candidate and a former state minister. He is seeking a second term in the assembly. A prominent leader in the opposition Maha Vikas Aghadi (MVA), Aaditya won the Worli seat in 2019 by a large margin. He is relying on his party's grassroots network and his track record in the constituency to retain his seat. Milind Deora (Shiv Sena Shinde) Milind Deora, 47, is an experienced politician and former Union Minister. A two-time MP from Mumbai South, Deora joined Eknath Shinde ’s Shiv Sena earlier this year after leaving the Congress. With his administrative experience and knowledge of the constituency, Deora aims to challenge Aaditya and attract voters looking for an alternative to the Thackeray family's influence in the region. Sandeep Deshpande (MNS) Sandeep Deshpande, representing Raj Thackeray's Maharashtra Navnirman Sena (MNS), is focusing his campaign on redevelopment issues and accessibility. Deshpande has criticised Aaditya’s perceived inaccessibility and is emphasising his door-to-door outreach as a key part of his campaign. Worli constituency overview The Worli constituency is a mix of upscale properties, commercial hubs, and older chawls in need of redevelopment, including the historic BDD chawls. It also houses Koliwadas (fishermen's villages), which reflect its working-class population. Some of the key issues in the area include traffic congestion, inadequate housing, and slow-paced redevelopment projects. 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Milind Deora is backed by Chief Minister Eknath Shinde and is presenting himself as an alternative to the Thackeray family's dominance in the region. Meanwhile, MNS’s Sandeep Deshpande has been engaged in extensive door-to-door campaigning for over six months, emphasising direct contact with the electorate. 2019 Election Results In the 2019 elections, Aaditya Thackeray won the seat with 87,995 votes, defeating NCP’s Suresh Mane, who secured 25,748 votes. Aaditya’s margin of victory was 62,247 votes. (You can now subscribe to our Economic Times WhatsApp channel )

World Class Health wants to democratize access to quality healthcare. World Class Health has a mission deeply rooted in accessibility. The company boasts on its website about a “global concierge health benefit,” saying they enable companies to “offer their employees and families access to the top 1% of hospitals and doctors worldwide, with best-in-class clinical outcomes and guaranteed savings.” World Class Health says its mission is to make healthcare accessible to everyone by removing barriers such as geography and finances. In an interview conducted over email, World Class Health’s co-founder and CEO Siddharth Nambiar explained his company helps people access high-quality care for such procedures as orthopedic and bariatric surgery, cancer treatment, and IVF. Nambiar told me his passions lie in “working with mission-driven teams to create jobs, deliver impact, and improve lives.” World Class Health exists to combat what he described as “three persistent challenges in healthcare”: access, cost, and quality. Rising expenses and limited access means people often are delayed in getting crucial care and are burdened with financial strain and suboptimal outcomes. World Class Health closes these gaps by “offering a seamless, affordable healthcare solution that ensures access to the best providers worldwide without any out-of-pocket costs for employees.” “World Class Health stands apart as a transformative healthcare solution designed to prioritize exceptional care, cost-efficiency, and unparalleled patient experiences,” Nambiar said of his company’s place in the market. Nambiar said his company is able to distinguish itself in a slew of ways. Most crucially from an accessibility perspective are the advantages in terms of cost and access. Nambiar told me World Class Health’s “innovative approach” to pricing nets significant savings—between 50% and 70% off traditional hospital rates. This makes healthcare “more accessible and financially sustainable for both patients and employers.” As to access, World Class Health offers end-to-end solutions, meaning it will provide what Nambiar characterized as “white glove service” for people when trying to navigate the care journey, from beginning all the way through to post-treatment followup appointments. This personalized level of assistance for patients, Nambiar told me, “ensures clarity, reduces stress, and enhances the overall experience.” FBI Warns iPhone And Android Users—Stop Sending Texts FBI Warns Smartphone Users—Hang Up And Create A Secret Word Now Gmail Takeover Hack Attack—Google Warns You Have Just 7 Days To Act Technologically speaking, Nambiar called it “central” to World Class Health’s work. Technology, he said, is the conduit through which the company delivers “more personalized and effective care while driving greater access and affordability.” He noted World Class Health’s platform leverages digital tools in order to enable “seamless patient navigation, transparent cost management, and enhanced communication between patients, providers, and employers.” Furthermore, Nambiar said the company is investigating ways that—what else?—artificial intelligence can augment its product, telling me AI can be used to connect patients with specialists and use “predictive analytics to identify risks early and guide preventive care.” All told, Nambiar told me the advancements from artificial intelligence will help World Class Health ensure “we continue to set the standard for exceptional, outcomes-focused healthcare on a global scale.” My conversation with Nambiar coincided with the company’s announcement late last month it secured $8 million in seed funding. In a press release, the New York-based company said funding had been led by venture capital firm AlleyCorp , along with the participation of several others. The announcement notes Nambiar and team’s “unique benefit” is their capacity to offer “top-tier surgical care at a fraction of the cost.” World Class Health’s mission is instructive from a disability context because it illustrates accessibility is a dynamo. It means different things to different people, and is more than discrete software features in computers. What Nambiar and his company is trying to do is break barriers to healthcare to make it more accessible. If you’re an employee someplace and have a neurological disability, for instance, the fact World Class Health will hold your hand from start to finish as you are cared for is worth its weight in gold. The healthcare industrial complex surely isn’t renowned for its ease of use, which can be overwhelming for most people. Imagine how daunting it is for people with disabilities. Add on the company’s reliance on modern technology like AI to connect people and streamline operations, and it’s easy to see how World Class Health could be world-class in terms of being an assistive technology to people. When asked about feedback, Nambiar told me it has been “overwhelmingly positive.” He noted employees are appreciative of World Class Health’s personalized and stress-free approach to obtaining care, while employers are reporting significant cost savings and an increase in productivity. Moreover, Nambiar gushed his company has a net promoter score, or NPS, which exceeds 90 and a 1.6% readmission rate, a number he said is “well below the industry average.” The results, he said, speak for themselves. World Class Health has been able to demonstrate “a consistent commitment to delivering results that matter—healthy, satisfied patients and long-term success in care delivery.” “Nearly 4,000 patients have benefited from our services,” Nambiar said. “Their stories of improved outcomes continue to inspire us.” As to the future, Nambiar said World Class Health plans to spent the next several months expanding its footprint in Asia and the Middle East with its Global Centers of Excellence network. He added the company is working towards expanding partnerships with employers and more.The bond between Sarah and her parents was unbreakable, forged through the fires of adversity and strengthened by the power of love. They had walked hand in hand through the valleys of despair and soared to the heights of hope together. As Sarah looked into her parents' eyes, she saw the love that had sustained her through every trial and tribulation, and she knew that she was truly blessed.As the session came to a close, Zhou Haichao and Zhao Xiuchi expressed optimism about the future of commercial real estate and the opportunities for growth and innovation in the industry. They stressed the importance of continuous learning and adaptation in order to thrive in a competitive market.

The news of the game's participation in TGA has sparked heightened anticipation among fans, who are eagerly awaiting more details about what to expect from "Mystical Beast Paru" at the event. With the gaming industry's eyes on TGA as a platform for exciting announcements and exclusive reveals, the developers of "Mystical Beast Paru" are poised to make a significant impact with their presence at the event.

This At-Home Laser Hair Removal Tool Trusted by Skeptical Shoppers Is On Sale for $120 OffAs the countdown to the Golden Globe Awards ceremony begins, the excitement and anticipation surrounding the Best Actress category continue to build. With such a stellar lineup of nominees, the competition is sure to be fierce, and the outcome unpredictable. Will Meryl Streep add another award to her illustrious collection, or will a newcomer surprise everyone with a breakthrough performance? Only time will tell.