Not for distribution to U.S. newswire services or dissemination in the United States TORONTO, Dec. 11, 2024 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) -- NexGold Mining Corp. (“ NexGold ”) ( TSXV: NEXG; OTCQX: NXGCF ) and Signal Gold Inc. ( “ Signal Gold ”) (TSX: SGNL; OTCQB: SGNLF) are pleased to announce that, further to the companies’ joint news releases dated October 10, 2024, October 23, 2024 and November 6, 2024, Signal Gold has exercised its upsize option and on December 10, 2024 closed an additional tranche (“ Tranche 2 ”) of its previously announced oversubscribed concurrent financing of subscription receipts (“ Hard Dollar Financing ”). Tranche 2 consisted of an issuance of an aggregate of 3,044,228 subscription receipts (“ Subscription Receipts ”) at a price of $0.08705 per Subscription Receipt, for gross proceeds of $265,000.05. Together with the first tranche of the Hard Dollar Financing, the full Hard Dollar Financing consisted of an aggregate of 123,120,068 Subscription Receipts for aggregate gross proceeds of $10,717,601.92. The Hard Dollar Financing is being carried out in connection with the proposed plan of arrangement, pursuant to which NexGold will acquire all the shares of Signal Gold to create a near-term gold developer, advancing the Goliath Gold Complex Project (“ Goliath Project ”) in Northern Ontario and the Goldboro Project (“ Goldboro Project ”) in the historic Goldboro Gold District in Nova Scotia (the “ Transaction ”). In addition, Signal Gold and NexGold are pleased to announce that today, the necessary conditions were satisfied and the Subscription Receipts automatically converted into units of Signal Gold (“ NFT Units ”). Each NFT Unit is comprised of one common share of Signal Gold (a “ NFT Share ”) and one-half of one common share purchase warrant of Signal Gold (each whole warrant, a “ NFT Unit Warrant ”). Each NFT Unit Warrant entitles the holder thereof to purchase one NFT Share at a price of $0.11818 for a period of 24 months following the date of issuance. The NFT Shares and NFT Unit Warrants will be adjusted in accordance with the Transaction, as applicable, for securities of NexGold. The net proceeds of the Hard Dollar Financing are expected to be used by the combined company to fund the retirement of certain debt, the exploration and advancement of the Goliath and Goldboro Projects and for working capital and general corporate purposes. In connection with the Hard Dollar Financing, Signal Gold paid finder’s compensation to certain eligible finders comprised of cash payments and the issuance of an aggregate of 2,227,395 non-transferable finder’s warrants (“ Finder’s Warrants ”) in respect of subscribers introduced to Signal Gold by such finders. The Finder’s Warrants are exercisable to acquire one NFT Share at a price of $0.11818 for a period of 24 months from the date of issuance. The securities offered in the Hard Dollar Financing have not been, and will not be, registered under the United States Securities Act of 1933, as amended (the “ U.S. Securities Act ”), or any U.S. state securities laws, and may not be offered or sold in the United States or to, or for the account or benefit of, United States persons absent registration or any applicable exemption from the registration requirements of the U.S. Securities Act and applicable U.S. state securities laws. This news release shall not constitute an offer to sell or the solicitation of an offer to buy securities in the United States, nor shall there be any sale of these securities in any jurisdiction in which such offer, solicitation or sale would be unlawful. Debt Restructuring Further to the Companies’ news release dated October 10, 2024, NexGold has agreed to the final terms with Nebari to complete a restructuring of NexGold and Signal Gold’s respective debt facilities, which will significantly reduce the debt profile of the combined entity going forward, with the definitive documentation to be released from escrow immediately following the effectiveness of the Transaction. Pursuant to the transactions with Nebari, Signal Gold’s outstanding credit facility of approximately US$20.8 million with Nebari and NexGold’s US$6.2 million facility with Extract Capital will be repaid. A new US$12.0 million facility with Nebari will be implemented that will have a 30-month term with an interest rate of 11.4%, payable monthly in arrears and secured against both the Goliath and Goldboro Projects. Existing warrants associated with the Nebari facility with Signal Gold will be cancelled, and 3,160,602 new warrants will be issued to Nebari with an exercise price of $1.00 per NEXG Share with a term of 30 months. In addition, the transactions contemplate the granting of a 0.6% NSR on the Goldboro Project to Nebari for US$6.0 million, which includes a 100% buy-back right for the first 30 months at the Company’s option. If the royalty is not repurchased during the 30-month period, then the royalty rate shall increase to 2.0%. The repurchase amount of the royalty shall be US$7.2 million (if exercised within the first 12 months), US$8.4 million (if exercised within the second 12 months), or US$9.6 million (if exercised within the last 6 months), plus certain additional adjustments for taxes up to a maximum amount of US$600,000. Subject to the mutual agreement of NexGold and Nebari and the prior acceptance of the TSX Venture Exchange, the repurchase may be satisfied by the issuance of common shares of NexGold (the additional adjustment for taxes may also be satisfied by the issuance of common shares of NexGold at NexGold’s election, provided it obtains the prior acceptance of the TSX Venture Exchange). The proposed new loan and royalty, together with a proposed US$4.0 million equity placement with Nebari (the “ Equity Placement ”) and certain proceeds from the Hard Dollar Financing, will be used to retire the existing debt. The Equity Placement will be comprised of the issuance of an aggregate of 8,000,000 common shares of the Company at an issue price of C$0.70 per share. Please refer to the October 10, 2024, October 23, 2024, and November 6, 2024 news releases for additional details regarding the Transaction and proposed debt restructuring to be carried out in connection with the Transaction. About NexGold Mining Corp. NexGold Mining Corp. is a gold-focused company with assets in Canada and Alaska. NexGold’s Goliath Project (which includes the Goliath, Goldlund and Miller deposits) is located in Northwestern Ontario. The deposits benefit substantially from excellent access to the Trans-Canada Highway, related power and rail infrastructure and close proximity to several communities including Dryden, Ontario. For information on the Goliath Project, refer to the technical report, prepared in accordance with NI 43–101, entitled ‘Goliath Gold Complex – NI 43–101 Technical Report and Prefeasibility Study’ and dated March 27, 2023, with an effective date of February 22, 2023, led by independent consultants Ausenco Engineering Canada Inc. The technical report is available on SEDAR+ at www.sedarplus.ca , on the OTCQX at www.otcmarkets.com and on NexGold’s website at www.nexgold.com . NexGold also owns several other projects throughout Canada, including the Weebigee-Sandy Lake Gold Project JV, and grassroots gold exploration property Gold Rock. In addition, NexGold holds a 100% interest in the high-grade Niblack copper-gold-zinc-silver VMS project, located adjacent to tidewater in southeast Alaska. NexGold is committed to inclusive, informed and meaningful dialogue with regional communities and Indigenous Nations throughout the life of all our Projects and on all aspects, including creating sustainable economic opportunities, providing safe workplaces, enhancing of social value, and promoting community well- being. Further details about NexGold are available on NexGold’s website at www.nexgold.com . About Signal Gold Inc. Signal Gold is advancing the Goldboro Project in Nova Scotia, a significant growth project subject to a positive Feasibility Study which demonstrates an approximately 11-year open pit life of mine with average gold production of 100,000 ounces per annum and an average diluted grade of 2.26 grams per tonne gold. For further details, refer to the technical report entitled ‘NI 43-101 Technical Report and Feasibility Study for the Goldboro Gold Project, Eastern Goldfields District, Nova Scotia’ dated January 11, 2022, with an effective date of December 16, 2021. The technical report is available on SEDAR+ at www.sedarplus.ca , on the OTCQX at www.otcmarkets.com and on Signal Gold’s website at www.signalgold.com . On August 3, 2022, the Goldboro Project received its environmental assessment approval from the Nova Scotia Minister of Environment and Climate Change, a significant regulatory milestone, and Signal Gold has now submitted all key permits including the Industrial Approval, Fisheries Act Authorization and Schedule 2 Amendment, and the Mining and Crown Land Leases. The Goldboro Project has significant potential for further Mineral Resource expansion, particularly towards the west along strike and at depth, and Signal Gold has consolidated 28,525 hectares (~285 km 2 ) of prospective exploration land in the Goldboro Gold District. For more information on Signal Gold, please visit Signal Gold’s website at www.signalgold.com . Technical Disclosure and Qualified Persons Adam Larsen, B.Sc., P. Geo., Director of Exploration of NexGold, is a “qualified person” within the meaning of National Instrument 43-101 Standards of Disclosure for Mineral Projects (“ NI 43-101 ”) and has reviewed and approved the scientific and technical information in this news release regarding the Goliath Project on behalf of NexGold. Kevin Bullock, P. Eng., President, CEO and Director of Signal Gold, is a “qualified person” within the meaning of NI 43-101 and has reviewed and approved the scientific and technical information in this news release regarding the Goldboro Project on behalf of Signal Gold. Contact: Cautionary Note Regarding Forward-Looking Information Certain information set forth in this news release contains "forward‐looking statements" and "forward‐looking information" within the meaning of applicable Canadian securities legislation and applicable United States securities laws (referred to herein as forward‐looking statements). Except for statements of historical fact, certain information contained herein constitutes forward‐looking statements which includes, but is not limited to, statements with respect to: completion of the proposed Transaction, including receipt of all necessary court, shareholder and regulatory approvals, and the timing thereof; and the combined company’s intended use of the net proceeds from the Hard Dollar Financing. Forward-looking statements are often identified by the use of words such as "may", "will", "could", "would", "anticipate", "believe", "expect", "intend", "potential", "estimate", "budget", "scheduled", "plans", "planned", "forecasts", "goals" and similar expressions. Forward-looking statements are based on a number of factors and assumptions made by management and considered reasonable at the time such information is provided. Assumptions and factors include: the successful completion of the Transaction (including receipt of all regulatory approvals, shareholder and third-party consents) and the debt restructuring documents being released from escrow; the ability of the combined company to complete its planned exploration programs; the absence of adverse conditions at mineral properties; and the price of gold remaining at levels that render mineral properties economic. Forward‐looking statements necessarily involve known and unknown risks and uncertainties, which may cause actual performance and financial results in future periods to differ materially from any projections of future performance or result expressed or implied by such forward‐looking statements. These risks and uncertainties include, but are not limited to: risks related to the Transaction, including, but not limited to, the ability to obtain necessary approvals in respect of the Transaction and to consummate the Transaction and the debt restructuring; general business, economic and competitive uncertainties; delays in obtaining governmental approvals or financing; and management's ability to anticipate and manage the foregoing factors and risks. Although the companies have attempted to identify important factors that could cause actual actions, events or results to differ materially from those described in the forward-looking statements, there may be other factors that cause actions, events or results not to be as anticipated, estimated or intended. Readers are advised to study and consider risk factors disclosed in NexGold’s and Signal Gold’s annual information forms for the year ended December 31, 2023, available on www.sedarplus.ca. There can be no assurance that forward‐looking statements will prove to be accurate, as actual results and future events could differ materially from those anticipated in such statements. The companies undertake no obligation to update forward‐looking statements if circumstances or management's estimates or opinions should change except as required by applicable securities laws. The forward-looking statements contained herein are presented for the purposes of assisting investors in understanding the companies' plans, objectives and goals, including with respect to the Transaction, and may not be appropriate for other purposes. Forward-looking statements are not guarantees of future performance and the reader is cautioned not to place undue reliance on forward‐looking statements. This news release also contains or references certain market, industry and peer group data, which is based upon information from independent industry publications, market research, analyst reports, surveys, continuous disclosure filings and other publicly available sources. Although NexGold and Signal Gold believe these sources to be generally reliable, such information is subject to interpretation and cannot be verified with complete certainty due to limits on the availability and reliability of raw data, the voluntary nature of the data gathering process and other inherent limitations and uncertainties. NexGold and Signal Gold have not independently verified any of the data from third party sources referred to in this news release and accordingly, the accuracy and completeness of such data is not guaranteed. Neither TSX Venture Exchange nor its Regulation Services Provider (as that term is defined in the policies of the TSX Venture Exchange) accepts responsibility for the adequacy or accuracy of this news release. No stock exchange, securities commission or other regulatory authority has approved or disapproved the information contained herein.MINNEAPOLIS – The Women’s Foundation of Minnesota recently announced $1.1 million in community investments through its We Thrive fund to support wealth-building through education and entrepreneurship. Among the recipients is Alumni and Foundation, which received $200,000 to support programs at BSU and According to a release, the Women’s Foundation of Minnesota awarded grants to support women entering high-wage, high-demand fields and roles by obtaining certificates, associate’s and bachelor’s degrees in programs such as welding, information technology, auto mechanics, engineering, robotics, architecture and other STEM-related fields. Grantees demonstrate their ability to apply an intersectional lens to their programming, considering how the intersection of gender, race, class and place affects their students, the release adds. BSU’s funding will support a parent navigator role, enrollment efforts, the Wiisiniidaa — Let’s Eat — program to address food insecurity, and the North Star Promise Fund, which offers needs-based scholarships for Pell grant recipients’ living expenses. More information can be found at
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Washington’s new leaders must support press and transparencyHouse approves $895B defense bill with military pay raise, ban on transgender care for minorsThe world stands at the dawn of a “third nuclear age” in which Britain is threatened by multiple dilemmas, the head of the armed forces has warned. But alongside his stark warning of the threats facing Britain and its allies, Admiral Sir Tony Radakin said there would be only a “remote chance” Russia would directly attack or invade the UK if the two countries were at war. The Chief of the Defence Staff laid out the landscape of British defence in a wide-ranging speech, after a minister warned the Army would be wiped out in as little as six months if forced to fight a war on the scale of the Ukraine conflict. The admiral cast doubt on the possibility as he gave a speech at the Royal United Services Institute (Rusi) defence think tank in London. He told the audience Britain needed to be “clear-eyed in our assessment” of the threats it faces, adding: “That includes recognising that there is only a remote chance of a significant direct attack or invasion by Russia on the United Kingdom, and that’s the same for the whole of Nato.” Moscow “knows the response will be overwhelming”, he added, but warned the nuclear deterrent needed to be “kept strong and strengthened”. Sir Tony added: “We are at the dawn of a third nuclear age, which is altogether more complex. It is defined by multiple and concurrent dilemmas, proliferating nuclear and disruptive technologies and the almost total absence of the security architectures that went before.” The first nuclear age was the Cold War, while the second was “governed by disarmament efforts and counter proliferation”, the armed forces chief said. He listed the “wild threats of tactical nuclear use” by Russia, China building up its weapon stocks, Iran’s failure to co-operate with a nuclear deal, and North Korea’s “erratic behaviour” among the threats faced by the West. But Sir Tony said the UK’s nuclear arsenal is “the one part of our inventory of which Russia is most aware and has more impact on (President Vladimir) Putin than anything else”. Successive British governments had invested “substantial sums of money” in renewing nuclear submarines and warheads because of this, he added. The admiral described the deployment of thousands of North Korean soldiers on Ukraine’s border alongside Russian forces as the year’s “most extraordinary development”. He also signalled further deployments were possible, speaking of “tens of thousands more to follow as part of a new security pact with Russia”. Defence minister Alistair Carns earlier said a rate of casualties similar to Russia’s invasion of Ukraine would lead to the army being “expended” within six to 12 months. He said it illustrated the need to “generate depth and mass rapidly in the event of a crisis”. In comments reported by Sky News, Mr Carns, a former Royal Marines colonel, said Russia was suffering losses of around 1,500 soldiers killed or injured a day. “In a war of scale – not a limited intervention, but one similar to Ukraine – our Army for example, on the current casualty rates, would be expended – as part of a broader multinational coalition – in six months to a year,” Mr Carns said in a speech at Rusi. He added: “That doesn’t mean we need a bigger Army, but it does mean you need to generate depth and mass rapidly in the event of a crisis.” Official figures show the Army had 109,245 personnel on October 1, including 25,814 volunteer reservists. Mr Carns, the minister for veterans and people, said the UK needed to “catch up with Nato allies” to place greater emphasis on the reserves. The Prime Minister’s official spokesman said Defence Secretary John Healey had previously spoken about “the state of the armed forces that were inherited from the previous government”. The spokesman said: “It’s why the Budget invested billions of pounds into defence, it’s why we’re undertaking a strategic defence review to ensure that we have the capabilities and the investment needed to defend this country.”
The National Directorate of Employment (NDE) on Friday said it would continue to exhibit inclusiveness in its Renewed Hope Employment Initiative aimed at checking the scourge of unemployment in the country. The Director-General of NDE, Mr. Silas A. Agara, said this at the flag-off of the Renewed Hope Employment Initiative of 93, 731 beneficiaries across the country. Agara, represented by the Plateau state zonal coordinator , Mr. Emmanuel Dimka, said the initiative was part of the directives of President Bola Ahmad Tinubu’s overhauling of the Directorate for optimal employment creations. He said, “The Renewed Hope Employment Initiative is our modest short term effort at checking the scourge of unemployment in Nigeria. “The current employment initiative has been designed to engage a total of 93,731 unskilled and unemployed persons across Nigeria. Inclusiveness has been a cardinal consideration as we designed this programme. We have ensured that a minimum of 10 persons from each of the 8, 809 electoral wards in Nigeria were recruited.” He added that under his watch, the NDE had assured the adoption of cutting edge technology in the design and execution of the programme, where all applicants registered through the Directorate online portal which for the first the NDE had a credible database of its beneficiaries. Some of the prospective trainees expressed appreciation for their selection, saying it was a good thing for them to be selected.Netflix signs US broadcast deal with FIFA for the Women's World Cup in 2027 and 2031
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Supreme Court seems likely to uphold Tennessee's ban on treatments for transgender minorsHyatt Regency San Francisco Downtown SoMa Transferred to Blackstone Mortgage Trust Amid 290 Million USD Debt and Ongoing Tourism Sector ChallengesReiterates Commitment to Investing in America to Lower Grocery Prices, Raise Associate Wages, and Support Local Communities Highlights Resilience of Value Creation Model and Strong Momentum to Drive Long-term, Sustainable Growth Board of Directors Authorizes $7.5B Share Repurchase Program including $5B Accelerated Share Repurchase CINCINNATI , Dec. 11, 2024 /PRNewswire/ -- The Kroger Co. (NYSE: KR) today terminated its merger agreement with Albertsons after the U.S. District Court for the District of Oregon granted the Federal Trade Commission's request for a preliminary injunction to block the proposed merger. After reviewing options, the company determined it is no longer in its best interests to pursue the merger. "Kroger is moving forward from a position of strength. Our go-to-market strategy provides exceptional value and unique omnichannel experiences to our customers which powers our value creation model. We look forward to accelerating our flywheel to grow our alternative profit businesses and generate increased cash flows. The strength of our balance sheet and sustainability of our model allows us to pursue a variety of growth opportunities, including further investment in our store network through new stores and remodels, which will be an important part of our 8 – 11% TSR model over time," said Rodney McMullen , Kroger's Chairman and CEO. America's Grocer is Committed to Lowering Grocery Prices & Investing in Associates "Kroger has an extraordinary track record of investing in America," said McMullen. "We are at our best when we serve others – our customers, associates, and communities – and we take seriously our responsibility to provide great value by consistently lowering prices and offering more choices. When we do this, more customers shop with us and buy more groceries, which allows us to reinvest in even lower prices, a better shopping experience and higher wages. We know this model works because we've been doing it successfully for many years, and this is exactly what we will continue to do." Kroger's ongoing investments in America include: "I appreciate our associates who remained focused on taking care of our customers, communities and each other throughout the merger process," added McMullen. Share Repurchase Program Including Accelerated Share Repurchases Now that Kroger has terminated the merger agreement, the company is ready to deploy its capacity. With its strengthened balance sheet, Kroger will resume share repurchases after a more than two-year pause. Since announcing the merger, Kroger used its strong free cash flow and debt financing to build meaningful balance sheet capacity while maintaining its investment-grade rating. Kroger's Board of Directors approved a new share repurchase program authorizing the repurchase of up to $7.5 billion of common stock. The new repurchase authorization replaces Kroger's existing $1 billion authorization which was approved in September 2022 . Kroger intends to enter an accelerated share repurchase ("ASR") agreement for the repurchase of approximately $5 billion of common stock. "Our strong balance sheet and free cash flows position us to deliver on our commitment to grow the business and return capital to shareholders, maintaining capacity to invest in lower prices and higher associate wages," McMullen said. Kroger expects to continue to generate strong free cash flow and remains committed to its capital allocation priorities including maintaining its current investment grade debt rating, investing in the business to drive long-term sustainable net earnings growth, and returning excess free cash flow to shareholders via share repurchases and a growing dividend over time, subject to board approval. Looking forward, Kroger plans to host an Investor Day event in late spring of 2025 to share an update on its strategic priorities, future growth prospects and long-term financial outlook. Merger Debt Redemption In connection with the termination of the merger agreement, Kroger will begin the process of redeeming the $4.7 billion of its senior notes issued on August 27, 2024 , that include a special mandatory redemption provision in accordance with their terms. The notes will be redeemed at a redemption price equal to 101% of their principal amount, plus accrued and unpaid interest to, but excluding, the special mandatory redemption date. Termination of Exchange Offers In connection with the termination of the merger agreement, Kroger has also elected to terminate its previously announced offers to exchange (collectively, the "Exchange Offers") any and all outstanding notes (the "ACI Notes") issued by Albertsons Companies, Inc., New Albertsons, L.P., Safeway Inc., Albertson's LLC, Albertsons Safeway LLC and American Stores Company, LLC (collectively, the "ACI Issuing Entities"), for up to $7,441,608,000 aggregate principal amount of new notes to be issued by Kroger and cash. Kroger has also elected to terminate the related solicitation of consents (the "Consent Solicitation" and, together with the Exchange Offer, the "Exchange Offer and Consent Solicitation") on behalf of the ACI Issuing Entities to adopt certain proposed amendments to the indentures governing the ACI Notes (the "ACI Indentures"). As a result of the Exchange Offer being terminated, the total consideration, including any consent fee, will not be paid or become payable to holders of the ACI Notes who have validly tendered and not validly withdrawn their ACI Notes for exchange in the Exchange Offer, and the ACI Notes validly tendered and not validly withdrawn for exchange pursuant to the Exchange Offer will be promptly returned to the tendering holders. As a result of the Consent Solicitation being terminated, the proposed amendments to the ACI Indentures and the supplemental indentures previously entered into reflecting such proposed amendments will not become operative. About the Exchange Offers Global Bondholder Services Corporation served as exchange agent and information agent for the now terminated Exchange Offer and Consent Solicitation. You should direct questions and requests for assistance to Global Bondholder Services Corporation at (855) 654-2015 (toll-free) or (212) 430-3774 (banks and brokers), or by email at contact@gbsc-usa.com . About Kroger At The Kroger Co. (NYSE: KR), we are dedicated to our Purpose: to Feed the Human SpiritTM. We are, across our family of companies nearly 414,000 associates who serve over eleven million customers daily through a seamless digital shopping experience and retail food stores under a variety of banner names , serving America through food inspiration and uplift, and creating #ZeroHungerZeroWaste communities. To learn more about us, visit our newsroom and investor relations site. Forward Looking Statements This press release contains certain statements that constitute "forward-looking statements" about Kroger's financial position and the future performance of the company. These statements are based on management's assumptions and beliefs in light of the information currently available to it. Such statements are indicated by words or phrases such as "achieve," "committed," "confidence," "continue," "deliver," "expect," "future," "guidance," "model," "outlook," "strategy," "target," "trends," "well-positioned," and variations of such words and similar phrases. Various uncertainties and other factors could cause actual results to differ materially from those contained in the forward-looking statements. These include the specific risk factors identified in "Risk Factors" in our annual report on Form 10-K for our last fiscal year and any subsequent filings, as well as the following: Kroger's ability to achieve sales, earnings, incremental FIFO operating profit, and adjusted free cash flow goals may be affected by: the termination of the merger agreement and our proposed transaction with Albertsons and related divestiture plan; labor negotiations; potential work stoppages; changes in the unemployment rate; pressures in the labor market; changes in government-funded benefit programs; changes in the types and numbers of businesses that compete with Kroger; pricing and promotional activities of existing and new competitors, and the aggressiveness of that competition; Kroger's response to these actions; the state of the economy, including interest rates, the inflationary, disinflationary and/or deflationary trends and such trends in certain commodities, products and/or operating costs; the geopolitical environment including wars and conflicts; unstable political situations and social unrest; changes in tariffs; the effect that fuel costs have on consumer spending; volatility of fuel margins; manufacturing commodity costs; supply constraints; diesel fuel costs related to Kroger's logistics operations; trends in consumer spending; the extent to which Kroger's customers exercise caution in their purchasing in response to economic conditions; the uncertainty of economic growth or recession; stock repurchases; changes in the regulatory environment in which Kroger operates, along with changes in federal policy and at regulatory agencies; Kroger's ability to retain pharmacy sales from third party payors; consolidation in the healthcare industry, including pharmacy benefit managers; Kroger's ability to negotiate modifications to multi-employer pension plans; natural disasters or adverse weather conditions; the effect of public health crises or other significant catastrophic events; the potential costs and risks associated with potential cyber-attacks or data security breaches; the success of Kroger's future growth plans; the ability to execute our growth strategy and value creation model, including continued cost savings, growth of our alternative profit businesses, and our ability to better serve our customers and to generate customer loyalty and sustainable growth through our strategic pillars of fresh, our brands, personalization, and seamless; the successful integration of merged companies and new strategic collaborations; and the risks relating to or arising from our proposed nationwide opioid litigation settlement, including our ability to finalize and effectuate the settlement, the scope and coverage of the ultimate settlement and the expected financial or other impacts that could result from the settlement. Our ability to achieve these goals may also be affected by our ability to manage the factors identified above. Our ability to execute our financial strategy may be affected by our ability to generate cash flow. Kroger assumes no obligation to update the information contained herein unless required by applicable law. Please refer to Kroger's reports and filings with the Securities and Exchange Commission for a further discussion of these risks and uncertainties. View original content to download multimedia: https://www.prnewswire.com/news-releases/kroger-reiterates-its-commitment-to-lower-prices-and-initiates-new-7-5b-share-buyback-program-302329493.html SOURCE The Kroger Co.
PitchBook Releases 2025 Outlooks Highlighting Key Investment Trends Across Private MarketsHow Recent Legislation Threatens Global Entertainment in CubaTwo weeks into the Ontario Provincial Police’s RIDE (Reduce Impaired Driving Everywhere) campaign, 45 drivers in eastern Ontario have been charged with impaired driving , according to the Ontario Provincial Police (OPP). The campaign is run by the OPP during the holiday season or on long weekends. It’s a sobriety testing initiative that allows officers to perform random roadside checks to see if drivers are under the influence of drugs or alcohol behind the wheel. The Festive RIDE program began on Nov. 21 and the OPP says officers have stopped nearly 1,000 vehicles. The MADD (Mothers Against Drunk Driving) president and chair of the Ottawa area, Valerie Keyes, tells CTV News impaired driving numbers have been concerning this year. According to Keyes, the Ottawa Police Service has laid 752 impaired driving charges in 2024. One hundred and ninety-five collisions led to some of those charges, which also resulted in 12 fatalities. “If you look at the Ottawa Police Service stats, it's horrific,” Keyes says. “Those numbers, sadly, are not going down.” “Most impaired driving incidents are the result of bad judgment. Somebody has taken that decision to get behind the wheel,” she added. Keyes’ responsibilities with MADD also cover the eastern Ontario region, from Deep River to Brockville to Cornwall, and while alternatives to driving are harder to find in rural communities, the onus is still on the driver. “What we want to see is people make that smart decision. If you know you are going to have to drive at the end of an evening, don't drink, (and) don't have anything,” she said. More details to come Shopping Trends The Shopping Trends team is independent of the journalists at CTV News. We may earn a commission when you use our links to shop. Read about us. Editor's Picks Our Guide To The Most Giftable Toys In 2024 17 Sweet Treats And Snacks That Make Great Stocking Stuffers The Best Gift Ideas From Canadian Brands For Everyone On Your List Home Our Guide To The Best Sectional Sofas You Can Get In Canada Our Guide To The Best Electric Snow Shovels In Canada In 2024 (And Where To Get Them) Our Guide To The Best Hydroponic Gardens In Canada In 2024 (And Where To Get Them) Gifts 20 Of The Best Gifts Worth Splurging On In 2024 Mary Berg's Favourite Kitchen Products To Gift This Holiday Season The Best Gifts to Give Your Dad in 2024 Beauty Our Guide To The Best Self Tanners You Can Get In Canada 20 Anti-Aging Skincare Products That Reviewers Can’t Stop Talking About 12 Budget-Friendly Makeup Brushes And Tools Worth Adding To Your Kit Deals Black Friday May Be Over, But You Can Still Take Advantage Of These Amazing Sales On Amazon Canada It's Officially Travel Tuesday: Here Are The Best Deals On Flights, Hotels, And Vacations The Waterpik Advanced Water Flosser Will Make Cleaning Your Teeth So Much Easier — And It's 40% Off For Cyber Monday Ottawa Top Stories WINTER TRAVEL ADVISORY | Winter travel advisory issued for Ottawa this Saturday ‘Numbers are not going down’: OPP charge 45 with impaired driving in first two weeks of RIDE campaign Here are some creative and cost-efficient ways to wrap gifts this holiday season What's happening in Ottawa this weekend: Dec. 6-8 OC Transpo to open Trillium Line in three stages starting Jan. 6 'The Gingerbread Man' in Manotick reopens 2 years after devastating fire Canada's air force took video of object shot down over Yukon, updated image released CHEO, Shriners Hospitals launch first-of-its-kind fellowship CTVNews.ca Top Stories Canada Post strike: Union 'extremely disappointed' in latest offer, negotiator says A negotiator for the Canadian Union of Postal Workers (CUPW) says the latest offer from Canada Post to end the ongoing strike shows the carrier is moving in the "opposite direction." 'Shameful': Monument honouring fallen soldiers included names of living veterans Veterans are asking for answers after discovering that two sculptures in Ontario honouring fallen soldiers include the names of many people who are very much alive. WATCH LIVE | 61st annual Christmas Daddies Telethon airs Saturday on CTV A beloved yearly tradition, the Christmas Daddies Telethon airs from 11 a.m. to 6 p.m. on Saturday, Dec. 7, on CTV. Canada's air force took video of object shot down over Yukon, updated image released The Canadian military has released more details and an updated image of the unidentified object shot down over Canada's Yukon territory in February 2023. Invasive species could be hiding in your Christmas decor. Here's how to stop the spread Make sure to look through your holiday decorations, as Christmas trees, wreaths, and other natural decor can have invasive insects, eggs, and plants that pose a threat to local ecosystems and the economy. Long time coming: Taylor Swift's Eras Tour arrives at final stop in Vancouver Pop superstar Taylor Swift greeted some 55,000 eager fans in downtown Vancouver Friday with what’s become a familiar opening line. Northern Ontario man sentenced for killing his dog WARNING: This article contains graphic details of animal abuse which may be upsetting to some readers. A 40-year-old northern Ontario man is avoiding prison after pleading guilty to killing his dog earlier this year. One out of 10 Canadians had packages stolen in the past year: survey One out of 10 Canadians say they have had at least one package stolen in the last year, according to a survey. Calgary company steps up to help grieving family with free furnace after fatal carbon monoxide poisoning A Calgary furnace company stepped up big time Friday to help a Calgary family grieving the loss of a loved one. Atlantic WATCH LIVE | 61st annual Christmas Daddies Telethon airs Saturday on CTV A beloved yearly tradition, the Christmas Daddies Telethon airs from 11 a.m. to 6 p.m. on Saturday, Dec. 7, on CTV. RCMP in Shediac, N.B., charge man after break and enter, mischief RCMP charged a 42-year-old man from Shediac, N.B., following a break and enter, mischief and threats in Shediac said an RCMP news release Friday. Maritime weekend weather: Cold start and snowy finish Colder temperatures lie ahead for the weekend in the Maritimes with another swipe of snow and rain expected Sunday. Toronto Three people taken to hospital after triple shooting in downtown Toronto Toronto Police are on the scene of shooting that has sent three people to the hospital in the early hours of Saturday morning. Striking Canada Post workers continue annual Santa letter tradition, while also helping Toronto food bank Striking postal workers in Toronto’s west end are giving their time this holiday season to bring smiles to the faces of children in the community, while also helping their local food bank. ‘Hazardous’ driving conditions possible in GTA Saturday amid expected snow: Environment Canada Those getting around the Greater Toronto Area (GTA) today may want to use a bit of extra caution on the roads. Montreal Man arrested for DUI after car crashed into Mile-End restaurant A man was arrested for drunk driving after allegedly losing control of his vehicle and hitting three parked cars before skidding off and crashing into a restaurant in Montreal's Mile-End neighbourhood early Saturday morning. Bilingual municipalities take action as Quebec’s native English speaking population falls The 2021 Canadian census revealed the number of Quebecers whose mother tongue is English has continued to decline, and several municipalities where native English speakers were once the majority have now fallen below the 50 per cent threshold. Quebec premier wants to ban praying in public Premier François Legault took advantage of the last day of the parliamentary session on Friday to announce to 'Islamists' that he will 'fight' for Quebec values and possibly use the notwithstanding clause to ban prayer in public places such as parks. Northern Ontario How to watch this year's CTV Lions Children's Christmas Telethon Dec. 7 marks the first Saturday of December, which means it is time for the annual CTV Lions Children's Christmas Telethon. Here is what you need to know. Canada Post strike: Union 'extremely disappointed' in latest offer, negotiator says A negotiator for the Canadian Union of Postal Workers (CUPW) says the latest offer from Canada Post to end the ongoing strike shows the carrier is moving in the "opposite direction." Seniors at Sudbury apartment building haven’t had a working elevator in almost half a year Residents at Place Nolin in Sudbury haven’t had a working elevator in nearly six months. The senior’s building is a 40-unit, five-level building, run independently by its own board of directors. Windsor 'I do think it is extraordinary': Law community expresses concern over notwithstanding clause threat Hundreds of professionals within the law community have expressed concern with the premier’s threat of using the notwithstanding clause to back new legislation promising a crackdown on encampments. Suspects sought after two hardware store break-ins Essex County OPP are investigating two overnight break-ins at hardware stores. Windsor’s weekend weather On Saturday, expect a mix of sun and cloud with a slight chance of flurries in the afternoon and a high of plus 4. London Homeless encampments buried in snow, city hall’s response falling short The absence of a Winter Response to Homelessness this year means more Londoners endured this week’s snowstorm in tents and make-shift shelters. SIU: driver that fled OPP traffic stop in Arva fatally injured The SIU says OPP tried to stop a vehicle for a traffic infraction in Arva on Saturday night. Investigators say the vehicle sped away, then crashed into another vehicle. Want to become the next LHSC Auxiliary volunteer? Here’s how The London Health Sciences Centre (LHSC) Auxiliary is recruiting new members. Kitchener 'Shameful': Monument honouring fallen soldiers included names of living veterans Veterans are asking for answers after discovering that two sculptures in Ontario honouring fallen soldiers include the names of many people who are very much alive. Canada Post strike: Union 'extremely disappointed' in latest offer, negotiator says A negotiator for the Canadian Union of Postal Workers (CUPW) says the latest offer from Canada Post to end the ongoing strike shows the carrier is moving in the "opposite direction." Woman facing 96 animal welfare charges in connection with unlicensed kennel in Hamilton A woman is facing 96 animal welfare charges in connection with an unlicensed kennel in Hamilton, where two pet owners claimed their dogs died while in her care. Barrie Driver charged after passing snow plow in front of oncoming OPP vehicle A driver was pulled over and charged after passing a snow plow in front of an oncoming OPP vehicle. One dead in three-vehicle crash Police are investigating a three-vehicle overnight collision in Caledon, which resulted in the death of one driver. Multi-vehicle crash on Highway 400 snarled traffic A three-vehicle crash on Highway 400 snarled Friday afternoon traffic. Winnipeg Major Manitoba fossil milestones highlight the potential for future discoveries in the province A trio of fossil finds through the years helped put Manitoba on the mosasaur map, and the milestone of those finds have all been marked in 2024. No injuries in two-early-morning fires: WFPS Winnipeg Fire Paramedic Service crews say no one was injured in two house fires early Saturday morning. Cops and taxes could be highlights of the next Winnipeg budget Higher property tax hikes and more cops could be coming in next week's city budget. Calgary Calgarians panicked as Canada Post strike enters fourth week The impacts of the Canada Post strike are ramping up as other shippers pause their pick-ups to clear growing backlogs. Storybook Theatre extends holiday run of ‘Beauty and the Beast’ into 2025 If you weren’t able to get a ticket to Storybook Theatre’s holiday production of Beauty and the Beast, the theatre offered renewed hope Saturday. Calgary company steps up to help grieving family with free furnace after fatal carbon monoxide poisoning A Calgary furnace company stepped up big time Friday to help a Calgary family grieving the loss of a loved one. Edmonton 'Something quite majestic': Migrating hawks get second chance at local animal rescue A pair of birds not often seen in Edmonton have been given a new lease on life, thanks to a local animal rescue. Security guard killed at Edmonton apartment building Homicide detectives are investigating the death of a security guard in central Edmonton on Friday morning. 'Focus on bad guys': Albertans react to expansion of federal gun ban A local gun store owner says the new federal gun ban has left the industry shell-shocked. Regina Bernadette McIntyre named Saskatchewan's 24th Lieutenant Governor Saskatchewan’s 24th Lieutenant Governor will be Bernadette McIntyre after being appointed to the position by Prime Minister Justin Trudeau on Friday. Roses handed out in commemoration of polytechnic massacre Members of the YWCA handed out roses at the University of Regina to bring awareness to violence against women. Saskatoon doctor facing professional charges in circumcision case A Saskatoon doctor has been accused of unprofessional conduct following a high-cost adult circumcision that included a request for the patient to text unsecured post-op pictures of his genitals. Saskatoon Saskatoon under winter storm warning, freezing rain, heavy snow forecasted A winter storm warning has been issued for the city of Saskatoon and parts of west central Saskatchewan by Environment and Climate Change Canada (ECCC). Saskatoon doctor facing professional charges in circumcision case A Saskatoon doctor has been accused of unprofessional conduct following a high-cost adult circumcision that included a request for the patient to text unsecured post-op pictures of his genitals. Legislative change looking to reduce number of dilapidated homes in Saskatchewan Amended legislation introduced this week aims to address abandoned and dilapidated properties across the province. Vancouver Long time coming: Taylor Swift's Eras Tour arrives at final stop in Vancouver Pop superstar Taylor Swift greeted some 55,000 eager fans in downtown Vancouver Friday with what’s become a familiar opening line. The East Van Cross could be moving to a new location The iconic East Van Cross could be getting a new home, as Vancouver councillors are set to discuss moving the artwork to a more accessible location. Canada Post strike: Union 'extremely disappointed' in latest offer, negotiator says A negotiator for the Canadian Union of Postal Workers (CUPW) says the latest offer from Canada Post to end the ongoing strike shows the carrier is moving in the "opposite direction." Vancouver Island B.C. ombudsman to investigate delay in sending social assistance cheques amid post strike Thousands of social assistance cheques have not been distributed in British Columbia because of the Canada Post strike, prompting an investigation by provincial ombudsperson Jay Chalke. Long time coming: Taylor Swift's Eras Tour arrives at final stop in Vancouver Pop superstar Taylor Swift greeted some 55,000 eager fans in downtown Vancouver Friday with what’s become a familiar opening line. Four-year-old superhero inspires smiles at B.C. long-term care home While he’s not faster than a speeding bullet, nor more powerful than a locomotive, this four-year-old is proving to be a superhero. Kelowna Study of 2023 Okanagan wildfires recommends limiting development in high-risk areas A study into the devastating wildfires that struck British Columbia's Okanagan region in 2023 has recommended that government and industry limit development in high-fire-risk areas. Kelowna, B.C., to host the Memorial Cup in the spring of 2026 The Western Hockey League's Kelowna Rockets will host the Memorial Cup in the spring of 2026, the Canadian Hockey League said Wednesday. 545 vehicles impounded in 332 days: BC Highway Patrol pleads for drivers to slow down Mounties with the BC Highway Patrol in Kelowna say they've impounded more than 545 vehicles for excessive speed and aggressive driving so far this year. That works out to more than 1.6 per day. Stay ConnectedArmenia’s Shant Sargsyan and India’s Murali Karthikeyan secured victories to climb to the top of the standings after five rounds at the Qatar Masters Open, while title favourite Arjun Erigaisi joined the four-point club at Aspire Zone on Saturday. Playing white pieces on board 2, Sargsyan beat Bulgarian grandmaster Arkadij Naiditsh while Karthikeyan defeated Iran’s Pouya Idani on board 3 with black pieces as both of them took their points tallies to 4.5. Erigaisi, meanwhile, reached four points after beating his compatriot Surya Shekhar Ganguly. On the top board, Russia’s sixth seed Andrey Esipenko drew with Iran’s Bardiya Daneshvar, bringing both players to four points. UAE’s Salem Abdulrahman also secured his fourth point with a win over India’s Sankalp Gupta, while India’s Rithvik R Raja had the better of compatriot and 19th seed Pranav V to join the four-point pack. Nodirbek Abdusattorov of Uzbekistan, World No. 6 and last year’s runner-up beat India’s Ayush Sharma to reach 3.5 points. His compatriot and defending champion Nodirbek Yakubboev also drew with Lorenzo Lodici (Italy, 26th seed), leaving both players with 3.5 points. Iran’s 3rd seed Parham Maghsoodloo defeated Aditya Dipangkar of India, raising his score to 3.5 points. Meanwhile, the only Qatari player in the main tournament, International Master Husain Aziz drew with India’s Rajesh Nayak, raising his score to 1.5 points. Aziz had previously drawn with Mongolia’s Turmunkh Munkhzul in Round 4, lost to Cuba’s Luis Ernesto Quesada (the No. 27 seed), Uzbekistan’s Abdimalik Abdisalimov and settled for a draw in the opening round against China’s Zhihang Xu (ranked 35th). In the Qatar Masters Open B tournament being held simultaneously, India’s 12-year-old Abdul Khader Syed, Uzbek Samandar Shermuhammadov and Pakistan’s Lodhi Mahmood remained unbeaten. No. 2 seed Lodhi beat Khazakstan’s Yernur Akhmediyar to collect his fifth point, while Sayed defeated Uzbekistan’s Khudoyor Maraimov. Shermuhammadov beat Egypt’s Mohammed Salah Zozek. Among Qatari winners in the B tournament on Saturday were Layan al-Qassabi (defeated Saudi Arabia’s Maitha al-Otaibi), Hamad al-Kuwari (beat compatriot Ahmed Saif), Turki al-Kuwari (beat India’s Dahanaraja Srijan) and Fahad al-Mansoori (defeated Johan Jobsy of India). The youngest participant of the B tournament, 9-year-old Asma al-Hammadi of Qatar lost to India’s Rishi Ghanesharathinam. Commenting on the ongoing prestigious tournament, Hamad al-Tamimi, Executive Director of the Qatar Chess Federation and Championship Director, highlighted the fierce competition and unexpected results at the top boards. With four rounds yet to be played, he acknowledged the difficulty in predicting the eventual champion. Al-Tamimi also commended the strong performances of Qatari players and the seamless organisational efforts, emphasising the tournament’s pivotal role in nurturing chess talent and promoting the sport’s growth. Related Story QU launches 4th World Congress on Engineering and Technology Al Kuwari reelected president of Qatar Rugby and Hockey committee
NEW HAVEN, Conn. (AP) — Casey Simmons scored 18 points as Yale beat Vermont 65-50 on Saturday. Simmons had eight rebounds and three steals for the Bulldogs (5-5). Nick Townsend scored 13 points while shooting 4 for 10 (2 for 4 from 3-point range) and 3 of 4 from the free-throw line and added six rebounds. Bez Mbeng had 11 points and went 4 of 11 from the field (2 for 5 from 3-point range). The Catamounts (5-6) were led by TJ Hurley, who recorded 21 points. Shamir Bogues added 12 points for Vermont. Ileri Ayo-Faleye finished with seven points and three blocks. The Associated Press created this story using technology provided by Data Skrive and data from Sportradar .How to Watch Top 25 Women’s College Basketball Games – Thursday, December 12PitchBook Releases 2025 Outlooks Highlighting Key Investment Trends Across Private MarketsSINGAPORE: Singapore has reported the highest rate of AI-related incidents in Southeast Asia, with 35% of respondents experiencing such issues in the past financial year, according to a recent report by Deloitte. The findings highlight the challenges faced by businesses in navigating the rapid adoption of artificial intelligence technologies. The report also reveals widespread apprehension among organisations, with 96% of respondents identifying security vulnerabilities and 94% citing privacy breaches as key risks associated with AI deployment. Despite Singapore’s leadership in AI adoption across the region, confidence in workforce readiness remains alarmingly low. Only 50% of respondents believe their employees possess the skills required to use AI responsibly, marking the lowest confidence level in Southeast Asia. To address this gap, nearly 70% of organisations are prioritising the recruitment of specialised AI talent over reskilling existing staff. The emphasis on AI governance is growing, with businesses in Singapore aiming to enhance customer reputation (43%), build trust in AI outputs (43%), and improve regulatory compliance (39%) through effective governance frameworks. Across the broader Asia-Pacific region, the benefits of mature AI governance are becoming clear. Organisations with well-established frameworks reported a 28% increase in AI adoption among staff and implemented AI solutions in at least three business areas. Additionally, these organisations achieved nearly 5% higher revenue growth compared to their counterparts with less developed governance practices. The findings highlight the dual challenge facing businesses in Singapore: balancing the rapid adoption of AI with the need to mitigate risks and ensure their workforce is adequately prepared for the transformative potential of these technologies.
Panaji: To enhance food safety standards and to ensure hygiene in restaurants operating in the state, the Directorate of Food and Drug Administration (FDA) will conduct a thorough hygiene audit of all restaurants across the state. According to FDA, there are around 10,000 restaurants operating in Goa. The move comes against the backdrop of several complaints received from locals as well as tourists of unsanitary conditions in a few restaurants operating in the state. “In response to the numerous complaints received from both, local residents and tourists regarding unsanitary conditions in a few restaurants in Goa, the Food and Drug Administration has been instructed to implement stringent measures with immediate effect,” said Health Minister Vishwajit Rane in a post on social media. Officers of FDA and Food Safety and Standards Authority of India (FSSAI)-empanelled third-party auditors will conduct the hygiene inspections in all restaurants. “Every restaurant is now required to obtain and prominently display an official hygiene rating certificate on their premises. These comprehensive audits will evaluate adherence to FSSAI food safety standards, maintenance of proper sanitation protocols, staff hygiene training practices and waste management systems,” said Rane. He said restaurant owners must ensure full compliance with these requirements, as non-compliance may result in strict action under the existing food safety regulations. “The primary objective of this initiative is to enhance food safety standards and restore public confidence in Goa’s restaurant industry. Restaurant owners seeking clarification or additional information may contact the FDA office during regular office hours,” he said.