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B.C. Conservative public safety critic Elenore Sturko is refusing to meet a former Vancouver Police Board vice-chair in defiance of the wishes of party leader John Rustad and a group of colleagues, who have backed the woman over controversial social media posts. Sturko says in an interview she’s not “challenging” Rustad, but it’s “disappointing” he didn’t tell her he was going to publicly post on social media that he met Comfort Sakoma-Fadugba, and Sturko should too. Rustad says in the post late Monday that Sakoma-Fadugba is a “wonderful person” who is “proudly Christian” and she shouldn’t have been asked to quit, sharing a photo of the pair smiling together. Sturko reportedly told the CBC that Sakoma-Fadugba’s resignation last month was appropriate, and she had made online comments that were offensive, including to the transgender community. Sturko says in an interview she doesn’t intend letting the issue harm her working relationship with her colleagues or Rustad, and she will meet him in Victoria today. Former RCMP officer Sturko’s defection to the Conservatives ahead of the B.C. election was a pivotal moment for the party and Rustad’s efforts to create what he called a “big tent” party. But tensions within the party were exposed by various responses to Sakoma-Fadugba’s exit from the police board. Her posts on Instagram had included remarks about the impact of multiculturalism on “Canadian values.” Sturko says she knew when she joined the party there would be differences of opinion but she has “no desire to deepen any real or perceived rift” within the caucus. “Not seeing that post (by Rustad) before it went up was disappointing, but it hasn’t taken away from my desire to continue working with John to improve our province,” she said. “I think that having challenges (is) part of what it means to be in a caucus with a diversity of views in it. It’s unfortunate that it spilled over into the public realm, because it gives people at least a perception that could be negative,” she said. Sturko says diversity within the caucus is “great,” calling the differences of opinion a “distraction.” The row became public last week when journalist Jas Johal posted a letter on social media that was signed by 13 Conservative MLAs calling for a “written apology” from Sturko to Sakoma-Fadugba. The document posted by Johal says Sakoma-Fadugba expressed the views of many Conservatives, and if Sturko didn’t apologize and meet her then Rustad should. Johal said on social media late Monday he had been threatened by a former Conservative candidate and he was reporting the matter to police.Robinson won’t appear at Trump’s North Carolina rally after report on online posts, AP sources sayEx-minister cites 'threat to security' for denying emergency passport to Abdelrazik
VANCOUVER, British Columbia, Nov. 21, 2024 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) -- Central 1 Credit Union (Central 1) today reported third quarter performance reflecting steady financial results across business lines, consistent with plans and expectations. "Our stable third quarter results were in line with our expectations,” said Sheila Vokey, Central 1's President & CEO. "Central 1 continues to grow its critical payments, treasury and clearing and settlement services, which we provide at scale to financial institutions who deliver banking choice to Canadians.” Third quarter 2024 compared with third quarter 2023: The reported YTD net income was $47.8 million, an increase of $24.2 million compared to the same period last year, reflecting an increase of $36.0 million in net fair value gains 1 largely due to credit spreads narrowing. Core Business & Financial Performance Treasury Treasury delivered consistently strong results in the quarter and reported a net income of $11.3 million, broadly in line with $11.5 million reported in the third quarter last year. Net interest income was $10.1 million, a decrease of $9.9 million compared to the third quarter last year. However, the decline in net interest income was offset by an $8.9 million increase in net fair value gains 1 . Non-interest income, including revenue from Treasury's fee-for-service operations, also increased by $2.4 million compared to the third quarter last year. Payments & Digital Banking Payments & Digital Banking reported net loss for the quarter was $3.8 million, compared with a reported net loss of $4.7 million in the third quarter last year, driven by the Digital Banking business and partially offset by the net income in Payments. The year-over-year reduction in net loss for the current quarter can be attributed to reduced spending on strategic initiatives 1 . This decline is due to the pause earlier in the year in the Payments Modernization initiative, awaiting details from Payments Canada. Additionally, there were lower professional fees associated with Forge implementations, and completion of certain digital strategy projects. After the close of the quarter, Central 1 announced its intention to wind down its digital banking business and transition clients to one or more alternative digital banking providers. While no firm date has been set for completing this transition, Central 1 is working with digital banking providers and clients to complete transitions within a three-to-four-year timeline. Non-GAAP and Other Financial Measures Central 1 uses a number of financial measures and ratios to assess overall performance. Some of these measures do not have a standardized definition prescribed by Generally Accepted Accounting Principles (GAAP) and might not be comparable to similar measures presented by other companies. Presenting non-GAAP financial measures and ratios provides readers with an enhanced understanding of how management analyzes Central 1's results and assesses the underlying business performance. The discussions of non-GAAP financial measures and ratios that Central 1 uses in evaluating its operating results are presented as footnotes in the respective sections of the Management's Discussion and Analysis together with the required disclosure below in accordance with National Instrument 52-112 Non-GAAP and Other Financial Measures Disclosure. Non-GAAP Financial Measures The following non-GAAP financial measures exclude certain items from our financial results prepared in accordance with International Financial Reporting Standards (IFRS) Accounting Standards. The tables below present reconciliations of these measures to their respective most directly comparable financial measures disclosed in Central 1's Interim Consolidated Financial Statements. Net Fair Value Gain (Loss) Net fair value gain (loss) used across this press release is comprised of gain (loss) on disposal of financial instruments plus changes in fair value of financial instruments reported in the Consolidated Statement of Income (Loss). Reporting them combined provides better information on the fair value movements of Central 1's financial instruments to the readers. Non-Interest Income, excluding Strategic Initiatives Non-interest income, excluding strategic initiatives, presented in the Overall Performance and Results by Segment sections of this press release is derived by excluding Central 1's income from investments in strategic initiatives. Excluding income from strategic initiatives allows readers to better understand Central 1's recurring financial performance and related trends. Overall Performance Results by Segment Payments & Digital Banking Central 1's third quarter Management's Discussion and Analysis (MD&A) and Financial Statements have been filed on Central 1's SEDAR profile at www.sedarplus.com and are also available at central1.com/investor-relations . About Central 1 Central 1 cooperatively empowers credit unions and other financial institutions who deliver banking choice to Canadians. With assets of $11.6 billion as of September 30, 2024, Central 1 provides critical services at scale to enable a thriving credit union system. We do this by collaborating with our clients, developing strategies, products, and services to support the financial well-being of their more than 5 million diverse customers in communities across Canada. For more information, visit www.central1.com . Notes 1. These are n on-GAAP financial measures and non-GAAP financial ratios. Refer to the "Non-GAAP and Other Financial Measures" section of th is release or the MD&A for more information. 2. This is a non-GAAP financial ratio. Refer to the "Non-GAAP and Other Financial Measures” section of the MD&A for more information. Caution Regarding Forward Looking Statements This press release and announcement contain historical and forward-looking statements. All statements other than statements of historical fact are or may be based on assumptions, uncertainties, and management's best estimates of future events. Central 1 has based the forward-looking statements on current plans, information, data, estimates, expectations, and projections about, among other things, results of operations, financial condition, prospects, strategies and future events, and therefore undue reliance should not be placed on them. These include, without limitation, statements relating to our financial and non-financial performance objectives, vision and strategic goals and priorities, including focus on capital and cost management, the economic, market and regulatory review and outlook for the Canadian economy and the provincial economies in which our member credit unions operate , the impacts of external events such as international conflicts, protests, natural disasters or pandemics, as well as statements that contain the words "may,” "will,” "intends” and "anticipates” and other similar words and expressions. Forward-looking statements are based on the opinions and estimates of management at the date the statements are made. Actual results may differ materially from those currently anticipated. Securityholders are cautioned that such forward-looking statements involve risks and uncertainties. Certain important assumptions by Central 1 in making forward-looking statements include, but are not limited to, competitive conditions, economic conditions and regulatory considerations. Important risk factors that could cause actual results and the timing of such results to differ materially from those expressed or implied by such forward-looking statements include economic risks, regulatory risks (including legislative and regulatory developments), risks and uncertainty from the impact of rising or falling interest rates, international conflicts, natural disasters or pandemics, geopolitical uncertainty, information technology and cyber risks, environmental and social risk (including climate change), digital disruption and innovation, reputation risk, competitive risk, privacy, data and third-party related risks, risks related to business and operations, risks relating to the transition of clients to alternative digital banking providers, and other risks detailed from time to time in Central 1's periodic reports filed with securities regulators. Given these risks, the reader is cautioned not to place undue reliance on forward-looking statements. Central 1 undertakes no obligation to update or revise any forward-looking statements, whether as a result of new information, future events or otherwise, except as required by applicable laws. Contacts Media: Heather Merry Senior Manager, Communications Central 1 Credit Union T 1.800.661.6813 ext. 2355 E [email protected] Investors: Brent Clode Chief Investment Officer Central 1 Credit Union T 905.282.8588 or 1.800.661.6813 ext. 8588 E [email protected]The 30 players in the Super Eagles B camp ahead of the 2024 CHAN qualifiers double header against Ghana are expected to be reduced anytime soon as the team intensifies preparations for the crucial matches, The PUNCH reports. Co-handler of the team and Rangers International coach Fidelis Ilechukwu confirmed this to our correspondent on Tuesday. The Nigeria Football Federation has announced a list of 30 stars in the Nigeria Premier Football League for the assignment. “We have 29 players in camp already apart from Ossy Martins who sustained an injury in an accident on his way to the camp,” Ilechukwu told our correspondent. When asked about the possibility of replacing the injured Martins, the coach revealed that it is subject to the pruning exercise which will be done after a series of test games. Related News CHAN qualifiers: Three players absent as Eagles intensify training CHAN qualifiers: Eguavoen invites 30 home-based players for Ghana clash CHAN qualifiers: Eagles to know foes Wednesday “We are looking at what we are going to do. We want to reduce the players and if we are okay with the attacking players, we may not replace or wait for him to be fit. By the weekend, we will know what to do.” The team played one friendly game against Grassrunners FC on Sunday, which they won 1-0. “We have played one, we have one on Wednesday (today) and we will play more this week,” Ilechukwu added. The eighth edition of the continental championship – reserved exclusively for footballers plying their trade with clubs in their country’s domestic leagues and possessing standard contracts – is scheduled to run the length of February 2025 in Kenya, Uganda and Tanzania. Nigeria has never won the tournament, having finished third at the 2014 edition in South Africa before losing the final against hosts Morocco four years later.Gretchen McKay | (TNS) Pittsburgh Post-Gazette Beans are kind of like the your best friend from high school — nearly forgotten but always ready to step back into the limelight and help out an old pal when needed. As gorgeously (and tantalizingly) demonstrated in Rancho Gordo’s new cookbook, “The Bean Book: 100 Recipes for Cooking with All Kinds of Beans” (Ten Speed, $35), beans are indeed a magical fruit, though not in the way you heard as a kid. Classified as both a vegetable and a plant-based protein in the USDA’s Dietary Guidelines for Americans, beans and other legumes can be the ingredient you build an entire vegetarian or veggie-forward meal around. Or, they can help an economical cook stretch a dish twice as far with nutritious calories. A healthful and shelf-staple plant food — they last for years when dried — beans have been among a home cook’s most reliable pantry items for a very long time. (Common beans (Phaseolus vulgaris) are thought to have been grown in Mexico more than 7,000 years ago.) That’s why, for some, they’re often something of an afterthought, especially if the only time you ate them as a kid was when your mom tossed kidney beans into a pot of beef chili or made baked beans (with brown sugar and bacon, please!) for a family cookout. Related Articles Restaurants Food and Drink | 5 budget-friendly Thanksgiving dinner ideas Restaurants Food and Drink | Dine in Gingerbread Chalet at Ritz-Carlton Cleveland for holidays Restaurants Food and Drink | The future of Thanksgiving is takeout and hosts couldn’t be happier Restaurants Food and Drink | A starry Thanksgiving: Recipes beloved by Donna Kelce, Eric Stonestreet, Taylor Swift Restaurants Food and Drink | Pie crust 101: How tos from longtime instructor Vegetarians have always appreciated their versatility and nutritional punch, and because they’re cheap, they also were quite popular during the Great Depression and World War II as C rations. Sales also peaked during the coronavirus pandemic, when shoppers stockpiled long-lasting pantry essentials. It wasn’t until Rancho Gordo, a California-based bean company, trotted out its branded packages of colorful heirloom beans that the plant began to take on cult status among some shoppers. Unlike the bean varieties commonly found in even the smallest grocery stores, heirloom beans are mostly forgotten varieties that were developed on a small scale for certain characteristics, with seeds from the best crops passed down through the generations. The result is beans that are fresher and more colorful than mass-produced beans, and come in different shapes and sizes. They also have a more complex and intense flavor, fans say. “The Bean Book” dishes up dozens of different ways to cook Rancho Gordo’s 50 heirloom bean varieties, which include red-streaked cranberry beans, mint-green flageolets, black and classic garbanzos and (my favorite) vaquero — which wear the same black-and-white spots as a Holstein cow. Other gotta-try varieties (if just for the name) include eye of the goat, European Soldier, Jacob’s Cattle and Good Mother Stallard, a purple bean with cream-colored flecks. “The very good news is that you have to work extra hard to mess up a pot of beans, and it’s not difficult to make an excellent pot,” Steve Sando writes in the book’s foreword. “The even better news is that you become a better cook with each pot you make.” Not convinced? Here are five reasons to jump on the bean bandwagon: Even the smallest grocery store will have a selection of dried and canned beans. Common varieties include black, cannellini (white kidney), Great Northern, pinto, navy, kidney, Lima and garbanzo (chickpea) beans. Even when they’re not on sale, beans are a bargain at the supermarket. Many varieties cost less than $1 a can, and dried beans are an economical way to build a menu. I paid $1.25 for a one-pound bag of cranberry beans, a smooth and velvety bean with a slightly nutty flavor, at my local grocery store. Rancho Gordo’s heirloom beans cost substantially more. (They run $6.25-$7.50 for a one-pound bag, with free shipping on orders over $50.) But they are sold within a year of harvest, which makes them more flavorful and tender. A bag also comes with cooking instructions and recipe suggestions, and the quality is outstanding. Plus, after cooking their beans with aromatics, “you are left with essentially free soup,” Sando writes in the cookbook. “If you drain properly cooked and seasoned beans, the liquid you are left with is delicious.” Beans are a great source of plant-based protein and both soluble and insoluble fiber, and they include essential minerals like iron, magnesium and potassium. If you’re watching your weight or following a particular diet, beans are naturally free of fat, sodium and cholesterol and are rich in complex carbohydrates. They also contain antioxidants and folate. And if you’re vegan or vegetarian, most types of dry beans are rich sources of iron. The U.S. Dietary Guidelines for Americans recommends eating 1-3 cups of legumes, including beans, per week Dry beans have to be soaked overnight, but cooking them is easy. They can be cooked on the stovetop, in a slow cooker, in the pressure cooker and in the oven. Canned beans are even easier — just rinse and drain, and they’re ready to go. Beans can be used in so many different dishes. They can be made into soup, salad or dips, top nachos, add some heft to a casserole or be mashed into the makings of a veggie burger. You also can add them to brownies and other baked goods, toss them with pasta, add them to chili or a rice bowl or stuff them into a taco or burrito. Check out these four recipes: PG tested This light and creamy vegetarian soup benefits from a surprising garnish, roasted shiitake mushrooms, which taste exactly like bacon. For soup 1/4 cup olive oil 1 medium yellow onion, chopped 2 celery stalks, chopped 1 medium carrot, scrubbed and chopped 6 garlic cloves, finely grated or pressed 2 sprigs fresh thyme, plus more for garnish 1/2 teaspoon sea salt 1/4 teaspoon pepper 4 cups vegetable broth 2 15-ounce cans cannellini beans, drained and rinsed For bacon 8 ounces shiitake mushrooms, caps cut into 1/8 -inch slices 2 tablespoons olive oil 1/4 teaspoons fine sea salt To finish Plant-based milk Chili oil, for drizzling Preheat oven to 400 degrees. Make soup: In large pot, heat oil over medium heat until it shimmers. Add onion, celery, carrot, garlic, thyme, salt and pepper. Cook, stirring occasionally, until vegetables are fragrant and tender, 8-10 minutes. Add vegetable stock and beans, increase heat to high and bring mixture to a boil. Reduce heat to medium and simmer until thickened, 12-14 minutes. Meanwhile, make the bacon: Spread shiitake mushrooms into a single layer on a sheet pan, drizzle with olive oil, sprinkle with salt and pepper and toss to combine. Bake until browned and crispy, 18-20 minutes, rotating pan front to back and tossing mushrooms with a spatula halfway through. Let cool in pan; mushrooms will continue to crisp as they cool. To finish, add some milk to the soup and use an immersion blender to puree it in the pot, or puree in a blender. (Cover lid with a clean kitchen towel.) Taste and season with more salt and pepper if needed. Divide soup among bowls and top with shiitake bacon. Garnish with thyme sprigs and a drizzle of chili oil. Serves 4-6. — “Mastering the Art of Plant-Based Cooking” by Joe Yonan PG tested Velvety cranberry beans simmered with tomato and the punch of red wine vinegar are a perfect match for a soft bed of cheesy polenta. This is a filling, stick-to-your-ribs dish perfect for fall. 1/4 cup olive oil 1 small onion, finely chopped 2 garlic cloves, minced 2 cups canned chopped tomatoes, juice reserved 1 tablespoon red wine vinegar 2 tablespoons tomato paste 1 cup chicken or vegetable broth 4 fresh sage leaves Salt and pepper 4 cups cooked Lamon or cranberry beans 2 cups uncooked polenta 6 ounces pancetta, diced Chopped fresh basil or parsley, for garnish Grated Parmesan cheese, for serving In large pan, heat olive oil over medium heat. Add onion and garlic and cook, stirring, until onion begins to soften, about 3 minutes. Stir in tomatoes and red wine vinegar. In a small bowl, dissolve tomato paste in the broth and add to pan. Stir in sage and season with salt and pepper. Simmer, stirring occasionally, until the sauce has thickened, 15-20 minutes. Add beans to tomato sauce. Cook, stirring frequently, until heated through, about 15 minutes. Meanwhile, prepare polenta according to package instructions. Place pancetta in a small saucepan over low heat. Cook, stirring frequently, until the pancetta is brown and crisp, about 15 minutes. Use a slotted spoon to transfer pancetta to a paper towel to drain. To serve, spoon polenta into serving dishes. Ladle the beans over the polenta and top with the pancetta. Garnish with fresh basil and serve with grated Parmesan. Serves 6. — “The Bean Book: 100 Recipes for Cooking with All Kinds of Beans” by Steve Sando PG tested Beans and seafood might seen like an unusual pairing, but in this recipe, mild white beans take on a lot of flavor from clams. Spanish chorizo adds a nice contrast. 4 cups cooked white beans, bean broth reserved 1/4 cup extra-virgin olive oil 1/2 white onion, chopped 2 garlic cloves, chopped 1 teaspoon salt, or to taste 1/2 cup finely chopped Spanish-style cured chorizo 2 plum tomatoes, chopped 1/2 cup dry white wine 2 pounds small clams, scrubbed well Chopped fresh parsley, for garnish Country-style bread and butter, for serving In large pot, heat beans in their broth over medium-low heat. In large lidded saucepan, warm olive oil over medium-low heat. Add onion, garlic and salt and cook until soft, about 5 minutes. Add chorizo and cook gently until some of the fat has rendered, about 5 minutes. Add tomatoes and wine and cook to allow the flavors to mingle, 5-6 minutes. Increase heat to medium and add clams. Cover and cook for about 5 minutes, shaking the pan occasionally. Uncover the pan and cook until all of the clams open, another few minutes. Remove pan from heat, then remove and discard any clams that failed to open. Add clam mixture to the bean pot and stir very gently until well mixed. Simmer for a few minutes to allow the flavors to mingle but not get mushy. Ladle into large, shallow bowls and sprinkle with parsley. Set out a large bowl for discarded shells and encourage guests to eat with their fingers. Pass plenty of good bread and creamy butter at the table Serves 4-6. — “The Bean Book: 100 Recipes for Cooking with All Kinds of Beans, from the Rancho Gordo Kitchen” by Steve Sando with Julia Newberry PG tested So easy to pull together for your next party! 1 1/2 cups cooked cannellini beans, drained and rinsed 2 tablespoons extra-virgin olive oil Juice and zest of 1 lemon 1 small garlic clove, minced Generous pinch of salt Freshly ground black pepper 2 or 3 tablespoons water, if needed 2 fresh basil leaves, chopped, optional 1 sprig fresh rosemary, leaves chopped, optional In a food processor, pulse cannellini beans, olive oil, lemon juice and zest, garlic, salt and several grinds of pepper until combined. If it’s too thick, slowly add the water with the food processor running until it is smooth and creamy. Blend in the basil and/or rosemary, if using Serve with veggies, pita or bruschetta. Makes 1 1/2 cups — Gretchen McKay, Post-Gazette ©2024 PG Publishing Co. Visit at post-gazette.com. Distributed by Tribune Content Agency, LLC.
Their faces obscured by masks, they sit in police interview rooms, quizzed by detectives on crimes they thought they'd got away with. The trail of destruction left by David Marsh and Anthony Whitehead would soon be laid bare in court. This week, the two men were jailed having groomed 'troubled and vulnerable' young boys with cash, cigarettes and alcohol before committing vile sexual abuse over two decades. Marsh, 74, and Whitehead, 72, were locked up - for 27 years and seven years respectively - following a four-week trial at Minshull Street Crown Court. They exploited a string of victims in Rochdale in the 1980s and 1990s. READ MORE: Heinous actions tore their lives apart, but one-by-one their words saw justice finally served The offences came to light in 2019 after Greater Manchester Police received a report that one of the victims confided in a person in authority that he had been sexually abused by two men as a boy. Investigators found one of the men was dead, but that the second, Marsh, was alive. Their investigations led them to a sinister campaign of abuse by Marsh and Whitehead, who were not known to each other, but both bribed the boys. Marsh, from Northenden, was convicted of 27 offences including indecent assault; buggery (rape); and attempted buggery (attempted rape). Whitehead, from Atherton, was convicted of six counts of indecent assault. A detective who worked from the case from the very beginning has now spoken to the Manchester Evening News about the investigation. Anthony Whitehead, left, and David Marsh (Image: GMP) Detective Constable Andrea Richards was first told by one of the victims, who was in prison, he had been sexually abused. From there, a sickening grooming spree was uncovered. The passage of time made it difficult for investigators, with a lack of forensic evidence and the benefit of modern techniques and technology. But Det Con Richards said they were still able to track down Marsh and Whitehead and secure convictions thanks to 'old fashioned detective work'. "I would just say that it was a lot of old fashioned detective work, the fact that the victims corroborated each other," she said. "We were able to find information in third party material. I would say mainly from the social services records of the children. "The victims were able to tell us things about the defendants personal circumstances, where they lived, what they did for a living... very good descriptions. The defendants were living normal lives." Det Con Richards added: "People from all walks of life can be arrested for being paedophiles. There's no single type of paedophile. Time is no barrier. It does make it more complex, but it doesn't mean it can't be done." David Marsh during his police interview (Image: Greater Manchester Police) One of the victims gave Det Con Richards a list of boys that he used to hang around with at the time of the abuse. That led her to other victims targeted by Marsh and Whitehead, who acted separately. "It was a bit of a shock to the system for them because this case occurred in the late 80s early 90s," Det Con Richards added. "They have tried to bury this and any thoughts that they got about what happened to them when they were younger. To have someone like me knock on the door 40 years later isn't easy. "Some needed a bit of time to think about it, but in the end they all did speak to me. I realised this was going to be a bit bigger than I would be able to handle on my own. A small team was put together to investigate what was going on. We do believe there are more victims out there." Marsh, on arrest, was desperate and pleaded innocence. "He gave the defence that he had erectile dysfunction problems and therefore couldn't have possibly committed the offences," Det Con Richards said. "His medical records did show that he had erectile dysfunction, but not around the time of the offences." David Marsh filmed himself with young boys in Thailand (Image: GMP) Det Con Richards said many of the boys had difficult upbringings, which Whitehead and Marsh exploited, adding: "The boys, when they were growing up, came from dysfunctional families. Unfortunately, they ended up in the care system. "They lived in situations which caused them to turn away and they were living on the streets of Rochdale . They [suffered] years of horrific sexual abuse. "Unfortunately they have turned to drugs and used alcohol and committed crime. They have been through the criminal justice system. I think we approached [the investigation] in a reassuring way, in a kind way, in a compassionate way. I think they now see that we were genuine, so they were able to open up to us. "They did find it very very difficult indeed, but they were able to get across what we needed to be able to secure those convictions. Some are doing better than others. All of them needed what they would think specialist support." Det Con Richards added: "I've always been patient about the case, I've always cared a lot for the victims and really wanted to see the right result for them. I was just hugely satisfied that I was able to bring some justice for the victims, although I do know that their journey to healing continues."As the war in Ukraine grinds on and Europe gets bogged down in its own troubles, post-Soviet states are reassessing their futures away from the aspirational and toward the practical. This comes partly from Russia’s illustration of what can happen to a neighboring country that takes an overtly anti-Moscow path. But it also comes out of the creation of many profitable new business opportunities, as Russia reorients its international trade to avoid sanctions via countries that are more friendly and accessible as conduits. The allure of the European Union, which once shone brightly throughout the region, also seems to have faded amid the bloc’s many political and economic troubles, as well as its failure to help Ukraine sufficiently to stave off the Russians. For instance, in Georgia’s recent elections, voters opted for the party that favored economic ties with Moscow over a pro-Europe opposition. “Average Georgians are more concerned with economic issues and maintaining peace than anything else – both of which rely on having better relations with Russia,” says Bryan Gigantino, a historian in Tbilisi. “Geography matters,” says Alexander Iskandaryan, a political scientist in Yerevan, Armenia. “While Georgia and Armenia aim for Europe, we know that Russia has to be taken into account.” Winds stirred up by shifting global realities are blowing across the former Soviet region, motivating some of those independent states to recalibrate their practical relations with Russia, even if that means postponing hopes of joining the European Union. And those winds are likely to be just a bit chillier in the wake of Donald Trump’s election as president of the United States. Many of the factors pushing some post-Soviet states into closer ties with Russia are long-standing ones , rooted in their common heritage as part of the U.S.S.R. for several decades. But the war in Ukraine has made it much more urgent. This comes partly from illustrating what can happen to a neighboring country that takes an overtly anti-Moscow path. But it also comes out of the creation of many profitable new business opportunities, as Russia reorients its international trade to avoid sanctions via countries that are more friendly and accessible as conduits. The allure of the EU, which once shone brightly throughout the region, also seems to have faded amid the bloc’s many political and economic troubles, as well as its failure to help Ukraine sufficiently to stave off the Russians. In the long tug-of-war between Russia and the West for the allegiance of post-Soviet countries, “slowly, pragmatism seems to be winning the upper hand,” says Vladimir Zharikhin, deputy director of the Kremlin-funded Institute of the Commonwealth of Independent States in Moscow. “Economic interests are becoming increasingly de-ideologized, and seen more as a matter of practical necessity. “For a long time economic self-interest was subordinated to the idea that Europe represents civilization, which must be reached by pushing away from Russia whatever the cost,” he says. “Now it’s clear that Russia is a big, strong market whose business these countries need, and it can’t be substituted by European dreams.” The most obvious example of this trend is Georgia, a small nation in the South Caucasus that was the first, more than 20 years ago, to stage a “ colored revolution ” to overthrow a pro-Moscow leader and declare joining the West its key strategic goal. Georgia lost a brief war with Russia in 2008, and spent several subsequent years having virtually no relations with its giant neighbor. In recent years, the ruling Georgian Dream party has moved to mend economic fences with Russia, while still insisting its long-term goal is to join the EU. But it has also begun requiring transparency from foreign-funded civil society groups , as many countries are doing, leading the EU to suspend the country’s accession bid and cut financial aid. The Georgian Dream party won October parliamentary elections with 54%, a result fiercely disputed by the opposition but affirmed last week by the country’s election commission. Despite ongoing protests, and criticisms of the vote from the West, the outcome seems likely to hold. Observers from the Organization for Security and Co-operation in Europe had concerns about the elections , but noted that “voters were offered a choice between 18 candidate lists and candidates could generally campaign freely.” “Average Georgians are more concerned with economic issues and maintaining peace than anything else – both of which rely on having better relations with Russia,” says Bryan Gigantino, a historian and lecturer at the Georgian American University in Tbilisi. He says the Georgian Dream party is not particularly “pro-Russian,” as its critics often claim, but is seeking to navigate the difficult middle ground between East and West, while maximizing benefits for Georgia. “This line of thinking is also common among some political forces in Europe, which explains why Georgian Dream aligns so strongly with Hungary,” whose prime minister, Viktor Orbán, was the first foreign leader to visit Georgia after the election, says Mr. Gigantino. Mr. Trump may be more understanding of this pragmatic attitude as well. Improving the very bad current relations between Washington and Tbilisi hinges on the hope that “a Trump administration would be open to a relationship that is more transactional, and less dependent on abstract and ever-changing values,” Mr. Gigantino adds. The shifting mood is also visible in tiny Moldova. There pro-Western voters narrowly won a referendum in October on prioritizing the country’s EU membership, while pro-Western president Maia Sandu won against a candidate who espoused a Georgian-style pragmatic approach to relations with the West and Russia by a smaller margin than expected in November. Many were shocked at the tight nature of both victories. Charges of Russian meddling, including allegations of vote-buying by a Moldovan oligarch on the lam in Russia, could have substance. Barely a year earlier polls had found almost two-thirds support for EU membership , while the referendum only passed after votes from Moldova’s diaspora in the West were counted. Unlike Georgia, Moldova has large Russian-speaking populations, including the ethnically Turkic region of Gagauzia, which is home to about 5% of Moldovans, and the breakaway republic of Transnistria , a long strip along the Ukrainian border with another 10%. They tend to favor the direction Georgia has taken with Moscow. “Most of the people in those Russian-speaking areas do not like the fact that Moldova joined the anti-Russian sanctions,” says Alexander Corinenco, an independent political scientist in the capital of Chișinău. “They look at Georgia and see the politics they are pursuing is more in our national interests, while they think that Moldovan leaders just want to cozy up with Europe. In Gagauzia, the local leaders congratulated Trump very publicly on his victory, because they hope it signals a change in the political direction.” Similar trends can be seen in other post-Soviet states, such as Armenia and Kazakhstan, where post-Soviet links to the West remain strong, but the economic pull of Russia is a factor that cannot be evaded. “Geography matters,” says Alexander Iskandaryan, director of the independent Caucasus Institute in Yerevan, Armenia. “While Georgia and Armenia aim for Europe, we know that Russia has to be taken into account. “European values may be popular, especially among the youth, but Armenian business depends heavily on the Russian market, and cooperation is growing,” he says. “Politics is one thing, and import-export figures are quite another. For Armenia, both Russia and the West matter, and neither can be ignored.”A federal appeals court Friday upheld a controversial law banning the U.S. operations of TikTok – the massively popular video-based social networking app owned by Chinese company ByteDance – unless it finds a U.S. buyer. That gives the company just six weeks to keep fighting before the ax falls. We have our issues with TikTok, but we won’t be cheering that outcome. This impacts a lot of Americans, as there are 170 million U.S. users, about half the total population of the country and more than the combined numbers who voted for Donald Trump and Kamala Harris. The most dangerous aspect of TikTok, a potential Chinese state weaponization, is speculative. Lawmakers and the Department of Justice are arguing that the platform could be compelled to share data on users with authorities in Beijing, or used to gather information on potential spies or any number of other schemes running the gamut from plausible to Tom Clancy novel. Yet there’s no public hard evidence that any of this has actually happened or even been attempted; we specify “public” because these officials have insisted that there is secret evidence to suggest that these are real and present threats, and are acting on that secret evidence. We understand that there are sensitive techniques and information that must be classified for reasons of national security and safety – a principle, by the way, that the incoming president does not himself seem to grasp, and is skirting consequences for violating – but this isn’t how we should be doing things in this country. Effectively banning the operation of an entire company based on secret evidence that our political leaders simply assure us exists is not really in keeping with our principles of due process and transparency. We present no defense of TikTok, which previously has been caught censoring views that Beijing doesn’t like, and it is undoubtedly designed to be addictive and appeal in particular to kids and teens, who can get sucked into the endless scroll. It has been used to push harmful content and misinformation around things like eating disorders and vaccines, and its sheer breadth and reach make this information often spread before it can be moderated. If you’re thinking that could just as well be true of Meta and its Facebook and Instagram platforms, or Alphabet with YouTube, then you can see what we’re driving at. But what makes TikTok different is that those parents aren’t foreign owned, and owned by an unfriendly country. There are plenty of things to be concerned about with TikTok, just as there are plenty of things to regulate around all of these social media companies. At least these are attempting some kind of evenhanded moderation, unlike the platform formerly known as Twitter, which has become the cesspool of X under Elon Musk’s ownership. Moving to completely ban TikTok on what seems like thin and largely speculative national security grounds is a red herring drawing attention away from the fact that all these social media platforms have been allowed to run roughshod over our social and political fabric with a very light touch from regulators. We’d all be better served dropping this effort and taking aim at the broader system.
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New Maharashtra CM to take oath on December 5AP Trending SummaryBrief at 5:34 p.m. EST
Wayne Rooney documentary 'may be scrapped' as Plymouth make sack decisionHow Maharashtra Assembly voters corrected Lok Sabha ‘errors’; ensured BJP’s best, Congress’ worst show yet
Inhalation Anesthesia Market Research and Analysis through 2031, Piramal Enterprises Limited, Halocarbon Products Corporation, Hikma Pharmaceuticals PLC, Lunan Pharmaceutical Group, Jiangsu Hengrui Medicine Co. Ltd., Fresenius Kabi Ag 12-05-2024 09:49 PM CET | Health & Medicine Press release from: STATS N DATA Inhalation Anesthesia Market [New York, December 2024] Inhalation anesthesia, a technique involving the delivery of anesthetic agents through inhalation, plays a pivotal role in modern medical practice. This method remains essential for numerous surgical procedures, ensuring patient comfort and safety while providing precise control over the depth of anesthesia. With its widespread application across hospitals, outpatient surgical centers, and dental practices, inhalation anesthesia significantly enhances the efficiency of clinical operations. As healthcare continues to expand globally, the significance of inhalation anesthesia within this growth cannot be overstated, offering numerous advantages not only to practitioners but also to patients, ensuring safer and more effective procedures. You can access a sample PDF report here: https://www.statsndata.org/download-sample.php?id=16762 The inhalation anesthesia market is poised for remarkable growth in the coming years. As healthcare systems evolve, the demand for advanced anesthetic solutions is surging, creating numerous opportunities for industry veterans and newcomers alike. Established players in the market can capitalize on advancements in technology and patient safety protocols, while new entrants can seize a chance to innovate with products that meet the industry's growing needs. A heightened focus on minimally invasive surgical techniques and outpatient procedures further fuels demand, presenting a unique chance for businesses to develop and market state-of-the-art inhalation anesthesia solutions. This evolution beckons investors eager to partake in a sector that promises both financial reward and the potential for improving patient care. Over the past decade, the inhalation anesthesia market has undergone significant transformation driven by technological advancements and changing surgical practices. Initially dominated by a handful of products, the market has expanded to include a diverse range of inhalation anesthetics offering various benefits. Presently, global stakeholders enjoy a competitive landscape, characterized by increased collaboration and innovation. However, as with any expanding market, challenges such as regulatory hurdles and the need for rigorous clinical testing persist. Nevertheless, key players have adeptly navigated these complexities, securing their positions and carving out competitive advantages. As the field continues to flourish, new entrants are encouraged to consider the immense potential within the inhalation anesthesia space, a sector where their investments can lead to both lucrative returns and the overall enhancement of patient safety and care standards. In today's rapidly evolving business landscape, staying aligned with market trends is essential for maintaining a competitive edge. STATS N DATA's Global Inhalation Anesthesia Market Report provides a crucial analysis of the market's current dynamics and future potential. Spanning 2024 to 2031, this in-depth report delivers valuable forecasts and expert insights, empowering businesses and investors to make strategic, data-driven decisions that strengthen their market position. This report is a valuable source, giving a clear view of today's market conditions and the main factors that will drive future growth. With expert insights, it helps companies plan their strategies around upcoming trends, giving them an edge over competitors. The Global Inhalation Anesthesia Market has grown steadily in recent years, driven by new technology and rising demand across different industries. STATS N DATA's report explores this growth and looks at what's powering it forward. The Inhalation Anesthesia Market report highlights key drivers like technological advancements and evolving consumer preferences, alongside challenges such as regulatory changes and economic pressures. This balanced perspective enables businesses to craft strategies that capitalize on growth opportunities while effectively managing risks, supporting their stability and resilience over the long term in pharma-healthcare industry. Detailed Market Segmentation To provide clear insights, the Global Inhalation Anesthesia Market is divided into key segments: Market Segmentation: By Type • Induction • Maintenance Market Segmentation: By Application • Sevoflurane • Desflurane • Isoflurane Get 30% Discount On Full Report: https://www.statsndata.org/ask-for-discount.php?id=16762 Each segment is thoroughly reviewed to provide insights on market size, growth potential, and trends. This helps companies pinpoint sectors with high growth potential and focus resources effectively. The report also includes an attractiveness analysis that evaluates each segment's potential based on competition and market opportunities. Regional Insights with a Global View The report offers a detailed regional breakdown of the Global Inhalation Anesthesia Market, covering North America, Europe, Asia-Pacific, Latin America, and the Middle East & Africa. This analysis is essential for businesses looking to expand or adjust their strategies to fit specific regions. High-growth regions are highlighted, giving businesses insights into new opportunities and specific market needs. Competitive Landscape and Technology Advancements As the Inhalation Anesthesia Market continues to evolve, the competition also intensifies. The report profiles leading players, with insights into their strategies, including mergers, acquisitions, and new product launches. Major key players include: • AbbVie Inc. • Baxter • Piramal Enterprises Limited • Halocarbon Products Corporation • Hikma Pharmaceuticals PLC • Lunan Pharmaceutical Group • Jiangsu Hengrui Medicine Co. Ltd. • Fresenius Kabi Ag The report also explores the latest technological advances that are shaping the market, helping companies see how new technology can enhance their competitive position. Regulatory and Economic Insights The Inhalation Anesthesia Market is impacted by regulatory guidelines, and this report provides a detailed look at key regulations affecting the industry. It also discusses economic factors like GDP growth, inflation, and employment trends, helping companies understand the broader economic context and make strategies that are resilient to economic changes. In summary, STATS N DATA's Global Inhalation Anesthesia Market Report provides businesses with a detailed overview of market trends, competitive insights, and growth opportunities. With this information, companies and investors can make better-informed decisions, helping them achieve success in an evolving and competitive market. For customization requests, please visit: https://www.statsndata.org/request-customization.php?id=16762 John Jones Sales & Marketing Head | Stats N Data Phone: +1 (315) 642-4324 Email: sales@statsndata.org Website: www.statsndata.org STATS N DATA is a trusted provider of industry intelligence and market research, delivering actionable insights to businesses across diverse sectors. We specialize in helping organizations navigate complex markets with advanced analytics, detailed market segmentation, and strategic guidance. Our expertise spans industries including technology, healthcare, telecommunications, energy, food & beverages, and more. Committed to accuracy and innovation, we provide tailored reports that empower clients to make informed decisions, identify emerging opportunities, and achieve sustainable growth. Our team of skilled analysts leverages cutting-edge methodologies to ensure every report addresses the unique challenges of our clients. At STATS N DATA, we transform data into knowledge and insights into success. Partner with us to gain a competitive edge in today's fast-paced business environment. For more information, visit https://www.statsndata.org or contact us today at sales@statsndata.org This release was published on openPR.GOP congressman urges Republicans to back Mike Johnson ahead of House speaker vote