jili demo play Now, the fair will take place on Thursday, January 16 at the Adolfo Suárez Fair and Congress Centre. The event will be counting on the presence of 140 companies offering somewhere in the region of 2,000 jobs. The objective is to ‘facilitate the insertion of those unemployed and the selection of personnel by human resources departments,’ according to the councillor for employment. He also mentioned that ‘this year there will be a special commitment to the sector of new technologies due to their importance in the diversification of our economy.’ Most Read on Euro Weekly News In previous years, over 5,000 people have attended the , reaching a maximum capacity for the . For this reason, it is advised that those wishing to attend get their free tickets early from . The fair will have company stands from sectors such as tourism, services, real estate, construction and maintenance, as well as 20 spaces allocated to institutions and groups, including the City Council itself, which will inform visitors of the different municipal programs that are underway and training courses available.Report: Chargers expect WR Ladd McConkey, LB Khalil Mack to play vs. Ravens

The NBA has issued a warning to its players to increase home security following a number of break-ins - and the FBI are involved. In a memo the NBA sent to its team officials, the league revealed that the FBI has connected several burglaries to "transnational South American Theft Groups." The groups are reportedly well-organized, sophisticated rings that incorporate advanced techniques and technologies, including pre-surveillance, drones, and signal jamming devices." The NBA decided to warn players to safeguard valuable items as transnational crime rings could be targeting US sports stars. Officials with both the NBA and NFL are assessing the danger following a series of brazen home break-ins that've targeted some of their most well known players. NFL issues security alert after Travis Kelce and Patrick Mahomes incidents Giannis Antetokounmpo gets involved as 'Unrivaled' awaits Caitlin Clark decision The NBA's senior vice president and chief security officer Leon Newsome told league presidents and general managers that officials have been briefed by FBI agents. The FBI reportedly warned that pro atheltes are among the people targeted by “SATGs”. Newsome said: “These SATGs are reportedly well-organized, sophisticated rings that incorporate advanced techniques and technologies, including pre-surveillance, drones, and signal jamming devices. The SATGs are primarily focused on cash and items that can be resold on the black market, such as jewelry, watches, and luxury bags. The FBI reported that, in most of the incidents, the homes were equipped with alarm systems that were not activated. The FBI also reported that the homes were all unoccupied and, in most cases, no dogs were present.” The NBA memo did not name any victims. However, Milwaukee Bucks forward Bobby Portis and Minnesota Timberwolves guard Michael Conley both suffered burglaries after Kansas City Chiefs duo Patrick Mahomes and Travis Kelce were hit. Follow us on X for the best and latest in sports news Earlier this week, the NFL advised players to be mindful when it comes to publicly disclosing information associated with their whereabouts, homes, and any luxury items. The NFL memo read: “The homes of professional athletes across multiple sports leagues have become increasingly targeted for burglaries by organized and skilled groups. “It is important for players to maintain situational awareness, practice social media safety and implement home security measures to reduce risk of becoming a target.” Mahomes and Kelce, the star tight end and boyfriend of Taylor Swift , were both break-in victims at their homes in the Kansas City area. Mahomes' house in Belton, Missouri, was hit on Oct. 6, while Kelce's place in Leawood, Kansas, was broken into Oct. 7. Both men were out the house as they prepared for the Chiefs' Monday Night Football clash with the New Orleans Saints. “Obviously, it’s frustrating, disappointing,” Mahomes told reporters before facing the Bills on Sunday. “I can't get into too many of the details because the investigation is still ongoing. But obviously it's something that you don’t want to happen to, really, anybody but obviously yourself.”None

Amwell CFO Mark Hirschhorn Expands Leadership RoleUNIVERSITY PARK — As No. 4 Penn State went through warmups at Beaver Stadium ahead of Saturday afternoon’s regular-season finale vs. Maryland, No. 2 Ohio State and Michigan were locked in a low-scoring duel with significant implications. A loss by the Buckeyes coupled with a Nittany Lions win would propel Penn State into the Big Ten championship game Dec. 7 vs. No. 1 Oregon. The Nittany Lions got the help they needed from Michigan, which upset Ohio State, and Penn State took things from there, overcoming a sluggish start to dispatch Maryland, 44-7, on senior day while punching a ticket to the league title game for the first time since 2016. Only 11 seconds into the game, Penn State (11-1, 8-1) was down 7-0, but the Nittany Lions scored 44 unanswered points. Drew Allar finished the day 17 of 26 for 171 yards and two total touchdowns, and Tyler Warren became the Big Ten’s single-season record holder for catches by a tight end (76) in addition to Penn State’s all-time leader in touchdowns by a tight end (17). Warren caught six passes for 68 yards and a touchdown, rushing three times for an additional 32 yards. Penn State amassed 412 yards of total offense and held Maryland to 194. Nick Singleton fumbled on Penn State’s first play of the game, with Maryland recovering at the 25-yard line before MJ Morris threw a touchdown pass to Kaden Prather on the Terrapins’ opening play. Penn State answered with a 49-yard field goal by Ryan Barker, making the score 7-3 with 12 minutes, 47 seconds left in the first quarter. Neither Penn State nor Maryland (4-8, 1-8) was productive for a large chunk of the opening quarter. However, the Nittany Lions eventually got their wheels turning, embarking on a 13-play, 60-yard touchdown drive, which Singleton capped with a short run from the 2-yard line to give his team a 10-7 lead with 12:53 left before halftime. Though Penn State’s offense didn’t shower itself in glory early, the defense came up with several big plays, including three first-quarter sacks and two picks in the first half. A few minutes after Singleton’s touchdown run, Penn State stuffed a Maryland fourth-and-1 try from the Terrapins’ 30-yard line. On Penn State’s ensuing drive, Allar scored on a keeper at the goal line, giving the Nittany Lions a 17-7 lead at the 10:11 mark. A wacky play on Penn State’s next possession set up a short Beau Pribula rushing touchdown, making the score 24-7. Faking a handoff to Singleton in the backfield, Allar lost the football, with Maryland’s defense swarming the backfield. But Allar shook off the pressure and, as he was being dragged down, managed to toss the football to Warren, who turned the broken play into a 29-yard gain, with Singleton adding another 18 on the ground to get the Nittany Lions to the goal line. Pribula did the rest as Penn State went up by 17 with 6:53 remaining in the first half. Audavion Collins intercepted Morris on the Terrapins’ next drive, leading to a 7-yard scoring pass to Warren and a 31-7 advantage. The Terrapins got themselves in good position to put some points on the board at the end of the half, but Tony Rojas intercepted Morris at Penn State’s 9-yard line. Maryland made a change at quarterback in the third quarter, inserting Champ Long, but it did not lead to improved offense. Following a scoreless third, Singleton put Penn State up 38-7 with an 18-yard touchdown run 46 seconds into the fourth. Singleton led the Nittany Lions backfield with 13 carries for 87 yards and two scores. Penn State pulled Allar from the game in the fourth quarter, and the Pribula-led offense penetrated as far as Maryland’s 12-yard line before being stopped on fourth down with 3:42 to play. With Morris back in the game late, Penn State picked him off for the third time. Dejuan Lane returned it 54 yards deep into Terrapins territory. Pribula hit Tyseer Denmark for a 15-yard score as time expired in the blowout.No. 12 West Virginia women beat Boise State 82-47 to reach title game of Gulf Coast Showcase

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PIH Health making progress resolving massive cyber attack that paralyzed 3 hospitalsCentral Connecticut's defense makes 7 interceptions to earn NEC's bid to FCS playoffsMandan, ND, Dec. 18, 2024 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) -- Amanda Babb's journey from a successful career as a physician assistant to a thriving Dickey's Barbecue Pit franchisee in Mandan, North Dakota, highlights the power of bold career moves and entrepreneurial spirit. Partnering with Randy Rhone, Babb has established her restaurant as a cornerstone of the local community, combining her passion for service with her love of barbecue. "I loved working in medicine, but I wanted a new challenge—something where I could work for myself and make a direct impact on my community," Babb said. "Owning a Dickey's has given me the opportunity to create something meaningful while staying connected to the people I serve." Babb entered the franchising world over a decade ago when she and her then-husband teamed up with Rhone to bring authentic barbecue to North Dakota . Driven by her desire to control her own career path, Babb took over daily operations when the original operator left, ultimately becoming the driving force behind the Mandan location. Seven years later, her restaurant has earned a reputation for exceptional service, quality food, and its welcoming atmosphere, becoming a gathering place for the Mandan community. Babb takes a hands-on approach to managing her restaurant, whether it's overseeing daily operations, coordinating catering orders, or personally welcoming guests. Her emphasis on building relationships with customers has been central to her success. "We're not just serving barbecue; we're building connections," Babb said. "When people come through our doors, we want them to feel like family." Catering has become a key aspect of her business, with Babb and her team regularly handling multiple large orders. This focus on community engagement has solidified her reputation as a leader within the Dickey's franchise system . As with any business, challenges have arisen—from navigating supply chain issues to adapting to shifting market conditions—but Babb has approached each hurdle with creativity and determination. "Margins in the restaurant industry are tight, but with the right strategies and a strong team, you can find ways to thrive," Babb said. She also emphasizes the importance of strong collaboration. "Franchising is a partnership," she said. "Having the right support system in place—both locally and from corporate—makes all the difference when challenges arise." Babb encourages aspiring franchisees to fully understand the demands of the business before jumping in. "Franchising isn't a passive investment—it's a hands-on endeavor," she said. "But if you're willing to put in the work and stay focused, it can be incredibly rewarding. The key is loving what you do and building something that truly matters." Amanda Babb is focused on growing her business while continuing to serve her community. For her, the restaurant represents more than a business—it's a space for connection, celebration, and shared meals. "This is about more than barbecue," she said. "It's about creating a space where people can connect and share great food together." Laura Rea Dickey , CEO of Dickey's Barbecue Restaurants, Inc ., praised Babb's impact: "Amanda's story exemplifies the spirit of Dickey's. Her ability to transition from one career to another while excelling in both shows her resilience and dedication. She's an inspiration to our entire system." Roland Dickey , Jr., CEO of Dickey's Capital Group, added: "Amanda's commitment to her community and her business sets her apart as a leader. Her journey demonstrates the opportunities franchising can provide when paired with passion and hard work." Babb's story reflects the resilience, adaptability, and drive required to successfully transition from one career to another, and her success is a testament to the opportunities franchising offers. About Dickey's Barbecue Restaurants, Inc. Founded in 1941 by The Dickey Family, Dickey's Barbecue Restaurants, Inc. is the world's largest barbecue concept and continues as a third-generation family-run business. For over 80 years, Dickey's Barbecue Pit has served millions with its signature Legit. Texas. Barbecue.TM Slow-smoked over hickory wood-burning pits, Dickey's barbecued meats are paired with a variety of southern sides. Committed to authentic barbecue, Dickey's never takes shortcuts—because real barbecue can't be rushed. With over 866 restaurants across eight concepts in the U.S. and several countries, Dickey's Barbecue Franchise and Dickey's Restaurant Brands continues to grow under the leadership of Roland Dickey, Jr., CEO of Dickey's Capital Group, and Laura Rea Dickey, CEO of Dickey's Barbecue Pit, Inc. Dickey's has been recognized on Newsweek's 2022 "America's Favorite Restaurant Chains" list, Nation's Restaurant News 2024 top fast-casual brands for value, and USA Today's 2021 Readers' Choice Awards. The brand has also ranked in the Top 20 of Fast Casual's "Top 100 Movers and Shakers" for four of the past five years. Additional accolades include Entrepreneur's Top 500 Franchise and Hospitality Technology's Industry Heroes list. The brand has been featured by Fox News, Forbes, Franchise Times, The Wall Street Journal, and People Magazine . For more information, visit www.dickeys.com . For information about becoming a franchise partner, visit www.dickeysfranchise.com . Attachment Amanda Babb, Owner/Operator © 2024 Benzinga.com. Benzinga does not provide investment advice. All rights reserved.

Dunbar football outlasts Douglass-PG, 6-0, in 2A/1A state semifinalNEW DELHI (AP) — Prime Minister Narendra Modi’s Hindu nationalist party headed for a victory Saturday in state elections in politically significant Maharashtra while the opposition won mineral-rich Jharkhand state. Polling in the two states are seen as a test of Modi's popularity after his party returned to power in June national elections but was forced to form a coalition government with help from regional partners. India’s Election Commission said Modi’s Bharatiya Janata Party and its allies have already won 183 of 288 seats and were leading in another 48 seats in Maharashtra, India’s wealthiest state and home to the country's financial and entertainment capital, Mumbai. The opposition Congress party and its allies have won 50 of 81 seats and were leading in another four seats in eastern Jharkhand state, according to the commission. It said vote counting was nearing completion and final results were expected later on Saturday. Modi's BJP and a Hindu nationalist ally currently rule Maharashtra, where Hindus constitute nearly 80% and Muslims 11.5% of its 126 million people. An opposition alliance, including the Congress party, is in power in eastern Jharkhand state. The BJP has used slogans such as, “If you divide, then you will die,” and “If we are united, then we are safe,” to attract majority Hindu votes. The opposition accused it of trying to polarize voters along Hindu-Muslim religious lines. Meanwhile, Priyanka Gandhi from Congress party, the 52-year-old scion of the Nehru-Gandhi political dynasty, is set to make her debut in Parliament after winning the race against a Communist Party candidate by a huge margin of over 400,000 votes in the Wayanad seat in southern Kerala state. She contested a special election after her brother Rahul, who was elected in two constituencies in June, had to vacate one. Her mother Sonia Gandhi is already in Parliament. The BJP had hoped to attract women with a plan that provides 1,500 rupees ($18) a month to over 20 million women in the 21-65 age group whose annual family income is less than 250,000 rupees ($3,010). The Congress party promised women double that amount and free transportation in government buses. The opposition also hoped to capitalize on the simmering disaffection with high youth unemployment, inflation and low crop prices during the BJP’s rule. In September, Congress was able to secure votes in India’s insurgency-wracked Jammu and Kashmir after a 10-year gap. But Modi’s BJP regained momentum in October and won the Haryana state election even though pollsters had predicted an easy victory for Congress. Get any of our free daily email newsletters — news headlines, opinion, e-edition, obituaries and more.

WASHINGTON , Nov. 21, 2024 /PRNewswire/ -- Last night, Future Caucus held its seventh annual awards at the Arlo Washington DC, in recognition of lawmakers and activists who embody the organization's mission to transcend toxic polarization. The award honors Gen Z and millennial leaders actively advancing bipartisan policies that address critical issues facing Americans. "The young leaders we honor tonight are not only persevering through systemic and personal obstacles, but excelling," said Future Caucus president and CEO Layla Zaidane . "They're showing us what's possible when the work of governing is rooted in empathy and collaboration rather than division, and how good, inclusive policy also turns out to be pretty good politics." The 2024 Rising Star Award was presented to two lawmakers: State Asm. Alex Bores (D-NY-73) and State Rep. Tory Blew (R-KS-112) , now Sen.-elect for the state's 33rd Senate District. Both serve as co-chairs of their respective State Future Caucus . "I'm honored to receive this award for work that prioritizes delivering results for New Yorkers," said Bores. "Creating a more effective, responsive state government requires everyone, and I'm proud of what we have achieved together to modernize New York's services and protect our democracy." "It's an honor to receive this recognition for bipartisan work that has been my focus from day one," said Blew. "At its core, this role is about listening and finding common ground that serves Kansans across the board, especially the young people who will define our future. I'm grateful to Future Caucus for championing this collaborative vision." Future Caucus presented the Cherisse Eatmon Collective Impact Award to Pennsylvania Future Caucus co-chairs State Rep. Justin Fleming (D-PA-105) and State Rep. Thomas Kutz (R-PA-87) . " Pennsylvania's young people and families are facing challenges that demand bipartisan solutions," said Fleming. "This award is a testament to the work we've done as a caucus and as colleagues, to bring together a diverse set of voices and put real, impactful legislation into action for our communities." "Pennsylvanians are facing challenges that require common sense solutions," said Kutz, who accepted the award in absentia. "Pragmatic legislators must come together to address rising inflation, the cost of housing and child care, and the rising costs of higher education. I'm honored to work alongside colleagues in Harrisburg who are equally committed to addressing these issues. This award is a testament to the bipartisan work we have taken on this session, and I'm eager to continue that work in the upcoming legislative session." The organization also presented its Generational Changemaker Award to activist and actor Sophia Bush , for her efforts to promote voter education and civic engagement, and to businesswoman and socialite Paris Hilton , for her commitment to criminal justice reform and accountability for youth residential facilities. "What makes this gathering so significant—and what makes the work of Future Caucus so vital—is the understanding that democracy is bigger than any one candidate, or the outcome of any single election," said Bush. "It's a commitment that, if honored and fought for, transcends wins and losses, uniting us around the shared responsibility to protect and strengthen our democratic institutions. And that is a commitment I believe in." "I'm accepting this award as a survivor and advocate, and more importantly, as a voice for every child suffering in silence. I've turned my pain into purpose by fighting for policy change, from passing 10 state laws to introducing the federal bipartisan Stop Institutional Child Abuse Act and testifying on behalf of foster youth in Congress," said Hilton, who accepted the award by video. "I'm so proud to stand with all the amazing lawmakers in this community who are dedicated to changing the world. I'm confident that together, we'll make groundbreaking progress in creating a world where everyone is supported, protected, and empowered." Rep.-elect Sarah McBride (D-DE) gave the evening's keynote address . As a Delaware state senator, McBride was founding co-chair of the Delaware Future Caucus. "The promise of our Constitution is only possible when we respect our differences and solve our disagreements through conversation and collaboration," said McBride. "We know that the divisions and nastiness that we too often see nationally must not—and does not have to—be our new normal. A different kind of politics is possible: a politics of hope, not of hate; of grace, not of grievance; and of progress, not of pettiness. That is our charge as the next generation of Future Caucus leaders." Future Caucus is a nonpartisan, nonprofit organization that empowers young elected officials in Congress and state legislatures to bridge the partisan divide. By supporting innovative policymaking and fostering collaboration, we help Gen Z and millennial leaders drive positive change and promote a political culture rooted in empathy and solutions. To learn more, visit www.futurecaucus.org . View original content to download multimedia: https://www.prnewswire.com/news-releases/young-republican-and-democratic-lawmakers-and-activists-receive-political-bridge-building-award-302313634.html SOURCE Future CaucusJudge rejects request to sideline SJSU volleyball player

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Column: Brady Corbet’s epic movie ‘The Brutalist’ came close to crashing down more than onceSUNRISE, Fla. (AP) — Spencer Knight made 20 saves, Mackie Samoskevich scored with less than a second left in the second period, and the Florida Panthers got four goals in the third to beat the Carolina Hurricanes 6-0 on Saturday and complete a two-day sweep. Aleksander Barkov, Sam Bennett, Aaron Ekblad, Evan Rodrigues and Adam Boqvist also scored for Florida, which won 6-3 at Carolina on Friday. The Panthers have won three straight — that streak following a stretch of six losses in seven games for the Stanley Cup champions. It was Knight's fourth career shutout, his first since Nov. 9, 2022 — also at home against Carolina. Spencer Martin made 23 saves on 28 shots for the Hurricanes, who have dropped four of their last six games (2-3-1). It was Martin's fourth consecutive start for Carolina. Takeaways Hurricanes: This was the first time all season that the Hurricanes failed to get a point in the game immediately following a loss. Carolina was 4-0-1 after a defeat entering Saturday. Panthers: A big day for Samoskevich — his alma mater on Saturday, that game ending just before the Florida-Carolina game started. The Panthers are 5-0-0 when he scores this season. Sam Reinhart had each of the four most recent Florida goals at 19:59, before Samoskevich got his Saturday. Key moment The Panthers scored two goals 11 seconds apart in the third to make it 5-0, and Yaniv Perets replaced Martin in the Hurricanes' net with 8:12 remaining. It was the second NHL appearance for Perets, who came on once in relief for Carolina last season. Key stat Ekblad's goal was his first in a span of 1,045 regular-season shifts since Feb. 20. Up next Carolina starts a two-game homestand Tuesday against Seattle. Florida goes to Pittsburgh to start a two-game trip on Tuesday. ___ AP NHL: Tim Reynolds, The Associated Press

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‘Wheel of Fortune’ Player Misses $40,000 Win After Disney Disaster( MENAFN - IANS) New Delhi: In today's world success is largely determined by the ability to make knowledge-based decisions -- in both personal and professional spheres. Knowledge helps one realise what should be done and what one should not do. This enables one to be discrete at work, to have smooth interactions not only with seniors but also with colleagues, and to make meaningful contributions to organizational improvement. This is, in fact, a management skill from which it can be inferred that good management also depends on competent handling of information-external or internal-as well as of the people one is dealing with. Even a family is like a small organisational unit and its head has to have the qualities of a good manager while bringing up children as a parent and tackling other family issues. Innocence is bliss no more and one has to be reasonably aware of the environment as it exists in the neighbourhood and also in the wider world, in the interest of one's safety and well-being. One should be able to 'observe' what one sees, 'absorb' what one observes, and 'analyse' what one absorbs for any learning that could be deduced from it. The use of 'intelligence' -- which is a product of 'information' -- contributes to what can be termed as smart living. Being 'smart' by definition is the ability to achieve better results or higher productivity out of the given resources of money, human assistance, and time. Information can be defined as "an intelligible fact or data that tells you what you did not already know". It is clear that being better informed than somebody else can become a matter of competitive advantage in a given situation where that particular information is relevant. Knowledge of what happened in the past or what was happening in the present adds to one's knowledge but an idea of what lay ahead -- often derived from an analysis of this knowledge -- can become the ultimate guarantor of success. Information on a future happening is called intelligence and it can be sourced directly or deduced through a competent analysis of what was already in the public domain. By definition, intelligence is the specially procured information of proven reliability that gives you a peep into the future. Information of intelligence value is important not only in the context of national security but in day-to-day life as well -- for personal security and business advancement -- since it enables you to visualise both opportunities and risks lying ahead. Intelligence today is an important determinant of corporate and managerial success. Major businesses invest in establishing intelligence units to analyse the market environment and study the competitors. Being well-informed means having the right information at the right time and having the information that makes the difference between a decision and a guess. Also, being well-informed is not a one-time event -- one has to remain well-informed continually as new information often keeps coming in. Being information savvy is a basic requirement of one's progress in any field. There are certain characteristics of information-savvy people. Firstly, they tend to read a lot -- an individual who is averse to reading cannot be a well-informed person. They like to keep information in the categorised form as they have an innate ability to analyse the facts in front of them. They have the discipline of a logical progression of thought and quickly go through the What?, Why? and Where? in any situation. Secondly, information-savvy persons have an insatiable curiosity rooted in a spirit of inquiry. Remember, information does not reach you, you have to reach out to the same. Thirdly, such people have a healthy interest in human psychology and behaviour. All business or social interaction is a human activity and one must understand where somebody's response is coming from. Fourth -- and this is very important -- the ability to identify the most useful information from the rest is a 'gift' in today's fast-moving world. Everybody does not have it. The capacity to distinguish essentials from non-essentials corresponds to the famous Pareto's Law that says 'there are a significant few amongst the insignificant many'. Finally, information-savvy people prefer an authoritative opinion to gossip. There is no dearth of credulous people in the world. In this age of misinformation and cyber fraud, the reliability of information being acted upon has to be ensured -- through a double-check system of some sort. A lot of information can be accessed by tapping open sources. Publications and online databases are very important. The government is the biggest publisher of information. Associations give out useful information in specialised fields as illustrated by Harvard Business Review (HBR) and the Journal of American Medical Association (JAMA). Stanford Research Institute produces and mails special reports on markets and industries to members for a fee. Libraries -- the traditional centers of knowledge -- remain as useful as before. Media reports of credible investigative journalists can be listed as another source of open information. Today, 'Think Tanks' produces a lot of information but the advice here is that one should accept their facts not necessarily their findings. Meetings and conferences have emerged as another major source of business information and so is the case with industrial fares and exhibitions. There is a caution for those relying heavily on online information. Do not believe that all that is there on the Internet is trustworthy and remember that social media presently has become an instrument of 'influence warfare'. A corporate body is possibly still missing out on tapping the wealth of information that was there within the organisation and outside because the system of interaction with its managers, consultants, and employees was inadequate and the feedback from its suppliers, bankers, and customers was not mopped up and analysed. Business organisations are waking up to this now and realising that no one might know everything but 'everybody knows something'. Information or knowledge is a valuable instrument for success and the leaders of an organisation owe it to themselves to enhance its quantum by whatever means possible. They should be able to garner the 'tacit knowledge' that today's employees carry with them. Sharpening everybody's observation power should be on their agenda. As already mentioned, we see without observing, observe without absorbing, and absorb without discrimination only causing a clogging of the mind. Further, there is a learning for leadership from what Albert Einstein, the greatest scientist of all times, famously said -- 'Imagination is more important than knowledge'. To be able to see the big picture behind what was in front and not miss the wood for the tree is one connotation of this profound observation. Imagination strengthens the power of anticipation and adds to the ability to make analytical deductions. Flawless communication also serves the cause of knowledge enhancement -- the person passing on the information must make sure that there is no ambiguity about its interpretation. Those seeking information must work with enthusiasm presuming that what they were looking for was available somewhere. Above all, an understanding of what confidentiality means in an organisational context goes with the function of handling information. In today's competitive world, all members must have an idea of what was to be preserved as the organisation's 'exclusive' information. The importance of information has further increased because of the speed with which businesses are transacted and decisions are required to be taken. Globalisation has set a new bar to competitiveness and the need to monitor competition has grown manifold. Moreover, there has to be a certain 'completeness' about the information one has, for sound decision-making. This is because knowledge comes in integral packages -- for a business owner employing men and women knowledge of laws against harassment of women at the workplace was essential just as a teacher of children ought to have an idea of child psychology and parental stress as this is part of an integral package. Finally, data analytics today has acquired a newfound importance as a knowledge enhancer and this is how Artificial Intelligence (AI) is changing the business world. It helps in evaluating business matters ranging from authentic user reviews and buying patterns of purchasers to the customer's feedback faster than was ever possible before. The larger the data bank better the application of AI for decision-making. AI is producing 'writing assistants' to help the efforts that would add to the company's productivity. With the rise in living standards, 'automation' is more and more in demand and AI is facilitating that. However, while AI is the most advanced use of Internet technology it is subject to the limitation that it would produce correct results only when the data fed into the system was reliable. One has to remember that there are both promises and perils associated with AI. Machine learning helps to increase productivity by improving the 'processing' of information. Nonetheless, AI operations cannot succeed totally without the aid of human intellect that provides the power of logic and imagination not available to the 'machine'. (The writer is a former Director of the Intelligence Bureau. Views are personal) MENAFN30112024000231011071ID1108942388 Legal Disclaimer: MENAFN provides the information “as is” without warranty of any kind. We do not accept any responsibility or liability for the accuracy, content, images, videos, licenses, completeness, legality, or reliability of the information contained in this article. If you have any complaints or copyright issues related to this article, kindly contact the provider above.

CHICAGO — Efforts to transfer a parcel of land in Chinatown from the state to the city were hitting a wall in the spring of 2018, and much of it had to do with a political cold war going on between then-state Sen. Martin Sandoval and Chicago Ald. Daniel Solis, who had backed the opponent of Sandoval’s daughter for county commissioner. Lobbyist Nancy Kimme, a Republican with connections in the administration of then-Gov. Bruce Rauner, called a longtime confidant of Democratic House Speaker Michael Michael Madigan to talk it through. Kimme told Michael McClain that Sandoval was putting the brick on the plan to transfer the land, which was owned by the Illinois Department of Transportation, by amending an existing real estate bill, and it may be because of the blood with Solis. “I believe that Sandoval is just mad at Solis,” Kimme said on the April 2018 call played in Madigan’s corruption trial Thursday. “Kinda makes sense what’s happening,” McClain responded. “Sandoval’s a small man.” The call was one of nearly a dozen played for jurors during Kimme’s testimony so far that have painted a detailed picture of the political mechanizations, power plays, and bruised egos that unfolded in 2018 over the tiny 2 1/2-acre parking lot along Wentworth Avenue that a group of deep-pocketed Chinatown developers wanted to turn into a hotel. Prosecutors allege Madigan agreed to help Solis, whose 25th Ward included the land, with the transfer in return for an introduction to the developers so he could pitch his private real estate firm to do their property tax appeals. But Madigan knew Rauner, his arch political enemy, would never let the land transfer go through if he knew the speaker’s fingerprints were on it. So Madigan enlisted the help of his friend, retired lobbyist McClain, who in turn went to Kimme to try and seal the deal. That’s when the problems with Sandoval, a Democrat who headed the powerful Senate Transportation Committee, reared their head. In call after call, Kimme and McClain commiserated over Sandoval’s boorishness, and also lamented the behavior of his colleague, state Sen. Tony Munoz, who at the time was vying to be the next Senate president. In one call played for the jury, Kimme told McClain, "I don’t know why (Sandoval) goes out of his way to piss off the speaker... That’s short-sighted. Madigan could take him out pretty easily.” McClain responded that all Madigan has to do is put up a Latino in Cicero to beat him. A few days later, Kimme and McClain talked about ways to get Sandoval and Munoz to “settle down.” Munoz, Kimme said seemed to be consumed with becoming the Senate president and was “not gonna want to piss off Marty,” “I’m sure that’s why he got involved (in blocking the Chinatown deal) in the first place ... Sandoval’s so crazy,” Kimme said. “I don’t believe there is any way for Solis to make peace now,” McClain responded. He said Sandoval “had a rally or something several months ago where Sandoval announced that Alex Acevedo is the next alderman.” Kimme said after a long pause, said, “We’re in the middle of some kind of range war.” On the stand, Kimme was asked by Assistant U.S. Attorney Julia Schwartz what she meant by that statement. “That they were all shootin’ at each other for different reasons,” Kimme testified. You mean for political reasons? Schwartz asked. “Yes.” McClain said suppose they got the Chinese Chamber of Commerce involved to show Munoz “there is a political consequence.” Kimme said Munoz probably wouldn’t care. “He knows that Marty is a bad enemy to have because he reacts so much.” At the end of the call, Kimme asked, Who is close to Sandoval? “Victor Reyes,” McClain said, the longtime Democratic political consultant and fundraiser. “Who is Reyes close to?” McClain paused for several seconds. “Well...Victor Reyes is close to Victor Reyes,” he said, “But um I got him you know a lot of business over the years.” A few weeks later, Kimme again asked McClain how they could solve the Sandoval issue, maybe “try and get Victor (Reyes) to go after Sandoval and quiet him down?” “I think I ought to call somebody and let ’em know that Sandoval is blowing it up,” McClain responded. “So why don’t you give me a day or two?” Kimme later told McClain that she’d found out Munoz was angry about a city-owned property on Damen Avenue that he’d wanted Solis to sign off on for development, but the alderman was dragging his feet. So she negotiated a plan with Munoz to put both properties in the same bill. “I think that’s a good deal,” McClain said. “That’s why you’re the master.” In May 2018, with the session deadline looming, Kimme reached out to Democratic state Rep. Theresa Mah to make her a sponsor of the land transfer. But the deal was later tabled due to pressure from the community that caused other political heavyweights to oppose it, including then-Secretary of State Jesse White, according to evidence the jury has heard. Sandoval later pleaded guilty to an arrange of bribery schemes unrelated to the Chinatown parcel and was cooperating with investigators when he died of COVID-19 in December 2020. Kimme’s testimony will continue after a lunch break. Madigan, 82, of Chicago, who served for decades as speaker of the Illinois House and the head of the state Democratic Party, faces racketeering charges alleging he ran his state and political operations like a criminal enterprise. He is charged alongside his longtime confidant McClain, 77, a former ComEd contract lobbyist from downstate Quincy. Both men have pleaded not guilty and denied wrongdoing. Prosecutors could rest their case in chief as early as next week. Before the jury took their seats Thursday, prosecutors said they want to call former state Rep. Eddie Acevedo as a witness next week. But Acevedo’s attorney signaled that she would try to keep him off the stand on grounds that he is not competent to testify, according to Assistant U.S. Attorney Amarjeet Bhachu. In addition, Bhachu said, Acevedo has invoked his Fifth Amendment right not to testify, meaning prosecutors must jump through administrative hoops in order to compel him to the stand. Acevedo, a Chicago Democrat, pleaded guilty in 2021 to a relatively minor tax charge stemming from the federal probe into ComEd’s lobbying practices. He was sentenced to six months in prison. Before his sentencing, his attorneys filed a memo from his doctor on the public docket saying he had “mild cognitive impairment,” gout, hypertension, high cholesterol and depression and anxiety. Acevedo has not testified in any of the Madigan-related trials so far. One of the conspiracy counts against Madigan and McClain alleges that AT&T Illinois boss Paul La Schiazza agreed to pay $22,500 to Acevedo for a do-nothing consulting job in exchange for Madigan’s help passing a bill to end mandated landline service. Acevedo also allegedly was hired by ComEd as a favor to Madigan, one of many people whom prosecutors say were given jobs as part of a bribery scheme. Jurors last month saw a memorable email in which then-ComEd executive Fidel Marquez seemingly lost his cool after Acevedo asked for a job for a friend. “Geez...he has a son and a nephew at ComEd. He’s got a contract at ComEd. Has he no limit?” Marquez emailed McClain. McClain responded using his frequent euphemism for Madigan, saying that Marquez’s rant “sounded like our Friend.” Also Thursday, jurors heard a series of phone calls meant to emphasize Madigan’s influence over state board appointments. “Think about Carrie to go to the Illinois Commerce Commission,” then-state Rep. Michael J. Zalewski told McClain in a November 2018 call, referring to his wife. “Pritzker gets two picks in January and the pay is the same, so it wouldn’t get us a story for bumping her pay, he could say she gets the same amount of money,” Zalewski said. Madigan ended up successfully recommending that Pritzker put Carrie Zalewski on the commission. Madigan and McClain are accused of getting ComEd to hire Michael J. Zalewski’s father, former 23rd Ward Ald. Michael Zalewski, as a no-work subcontractor, in order to sway Madigan’s support for utility-friendly legislation. Jurors also heard Madigan tell McClain about a meeting he had with Pritzker in December 2018. Madigan’s former chief of staff testified Wednesday that at that meeting, Madigan suggested Pritzker could reconstitute boards and commissions and appoint all new members. “You can wipe out the board too ... So I put that idea in his head,” Madigan told McClain on the recording jurors heard Thursday. Madigan’s sway over board seats is crucial to prosecutors’ allegations that he was planning to recommend Solis to a lucrative position on a board. Solis has testified he was not actually interested in a seat, but the FBI directed him to ask about it. Jurors last week saw undercover video from an August 2018 meeting in which Solis asked Madigan about a board seat appointment, and emphasized all the business he could bring in for Madigan’s firm. Moments later, Madigan asked Solis to put in a good word with the nonprofit Resurrection Project on behalf of his son Andrew, who worked at an insurance broker. The CEO and co-founder of the Resurrection Project, Raul Raymundo, testified Thursday that Solis had reached out to him in 2018 and asked him to consider meeting with Andrew Madigan. Raymundo subsequently connected Andrew Madigan with the Resurrection Project’s chief financial officer, who ultimately decided to start working with Andrew Madigan’s firm. Sign up for our Crime & Courts newsletter Get the latest in local public safety news with this weekly email.